Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) in Melbourne

 Are you seeking a psychologist in Melbourne trained in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT). DBT is one of the treatment approaches used by our Melbourne psychologists to treat conditions such as Borderline Personality Disorder, anxiety, complex trauma and more. We have complied some information below so you can learn more about this approach.

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) is a type of therapy that was developed in the late 1980s by psychologist Marsha Linehan. It was originally designed to treat individuals with borderline personality disorder (BPD), but has since been used to treat a variety of mental health conditions.

DBT is based on the idea that individuals who struggle with emotional regulation have difficulty balancing their thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. DBT is a comprehensive treatment that includes individual therapy, group therapy, skills training, and coaching. The goal of DBT is to help individuals learn to regulate their emotions, improve their interpersonal relationships, and develop skills to manage distressing situations.

Individual Therapy

Individual therapy is a core component of DBT. In individual therapy, the therapist and client work together to identify and address specific problem areas. The therapist helps the client to identify unhelpful thoughts and behaviours and develop strategies to change them. Individual therapy is also a time for the client to discuss any issues or challenges they are facing and receive support and guidance from their therapist.

Skills training

Skills training is another valuable aspect of the DBT approach. Clients learn skills related to mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, emotion regulation, and distress tolerance. These skills are designed to help individuals manage their emotions, improve their interpersonal relationships, and cope with distressing situations. Skills training is typically taught in a structured format, with clients completing homework assignments between sessions.

Group Therapy and Coaching

Group therapy,  another important component of DBT, clients are encouraged to practice skills in a safe environment where they are supported to share their experiences with others who are going through similar struggles. Coaching can also be a valueable component of DBT. Clients have access to their therapist or social worker outside of therapy sessions through phone or email allowing them to receive support and guidance when they need it most.

DBT in Private Practice

It is important to note that in a private practice setting, it is generally only the individual therapy component of DBT that can be offered. To experience the full benefits of this approach we encourage clients to look into organisations that have larger multidisciplinary teams who are able to facilitate the group work, skills training and coaching aspect of this approach.

Conclusion

DBT has been shown to be an effective treatment for a variety of mental health conditions, including Borderline Personality Disorder, depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. It is a comprehensive treatment that provides individuals with the skills and tools they need to manage their emotions, improve their interpersonal relationships, and cope with distressing situations. If you or someone you know is struggling with emotional regulation, DBT may be an effective treatment option to consider.

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