What is Dialectical Behavioural Therapy and who is it for?
What is Dialectical Behavioural Therapy and who is it for?
Dialectical behavioural therapy is a systematic and comprehensive approach that aims to accompany patients with emotional and behavioural disorders (suicidal behaviour, self-injury, impulsivity).
This type of therapy is based on cognitive and behavioural principles linked by strategies aimed at the psychic balance of the patient, in order to effectively reduce his parasuicidal actions, and to help him adapt his behaviour to his social environment.
This therapeutic model is based on psychoanalysis, behavioural and cognitive theories, philosophy and meditation.
Developed in 1987, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy aims to reduce self-destructive behaviour and increase the patient’s personal and social quality of life. It helps them manage their conflicting emotions and provides them with tools to live stressful situations with lucidity.
Dialectical behavioural therapies aim to bring the patient to self-study and learn how to manage his emotions by analysing situations. They learn to use their emotions (especially negative ones) to overcome them. They also help him to better manage his social relationships.
Basic DBT – as originally developed by Dr Linehan – is divided into four components:
DBT aims to improve behavioural skills, increase motivation to change and encourage the patient to use the new skills acquired in other settings (e.g. in everyday life).
This type of therapy can be used in addition to other psychotherapies and drug treatments, for patients suffering from self-destructive behaviour and behavioural disorders (behavioural disorders, borderline personality disorders, etc.).