Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Treating Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, & Addiction in Women

Women face unique challenges when it comes to mental health, and Grace & Emerge Recovery was built in recognition of that fact. For example, more women than men are diagnosed with borderline personality disorder, with most diagnoses coming in late adolescence or young adulthood. One of the most powerful evidence-based tools that we have for addressing BPD and other mental health challenges for adult women is dialectical behavior therapy (DBT).

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What is DBT?

Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) helps clients learn to identify, address, and understand overwhelming emotions, choosing healthier coping mechanisms along the way. DBT:

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    Involves learning special skills

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    Is technically a form of talk therapy

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    Was invented in the 1970s by Marsha Linehan

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    Expands distress tolerance

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    Requires professional clinical guidance

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    Helps in treating borderline personality disorder and other disorders

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    Teaches clients mindfulness strategies

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    Improves emotional regulation ability

Who Can DBT Help?

Suicide researcher Marsha Linehan developed DBT as a tool for her clients struggling with self-harm and suicidal ideation. It has evolved as a tool for the treatment of other mental health disorders, including:

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    Anxiety

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    Borderline personality disorder

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    Depression

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    Disordered eating

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    Substance use disorder

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    Suicidal ideation

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    Self-harm 

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DBT & Mental Health Treatment

The caring clinicians at Grace & Emerge utilize DBT alongside other evidence-based modalities, such as:

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Attachment-based therapy

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Adventure therapy

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Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT)

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Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)

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Family therapy

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Group therapy

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Polyvagal theory

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DBT for Depression

DBT was conceived as a tool for suicidal ideation, which is often a symptom of depression. In the decades since, it has shown promise for treating many kinds of depression: In one 2008 study, clients showed “significantly greater improvement” in their symptoms after a course of DBT for depression treatment. The effect was most marked among those whose depression had been treatment-resistant. If you or a loved one has struggled to overcome depression, DBT can help.

DBT for Borderline Personality Disorder

According to the DSM-V, symptoms of borderline personality disorder first emerge in adolescence and young adulthood. Without treatment, challenges can plague women for their entire lives. Mood swings, suicidal ideation, self-harm, low self-esteem and identity issues — all of these and more are indicators of BPD, and all can be successfully treated with comprehensive DBT. 

In DBT, clients work through four modules to learn core skills: core mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, emotion regulation, and distress tolerance. Continued treatment is necessary in order to deeply integrate and maintain those skills, but it’s possible to find peace with the help of DBT.

DBT for Mental Health Disorders

DBT can be a useful tool for treating a variety of mental health disorders. However, is is not a good fit for clients with:

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    Intellectual disabilities

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    Active psychosis

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    Schizophrenia

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    Other thought disorders that would make it difficult to learn the skills

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How DBT Works

Individual Therapy

In one-on-one sessions with our skilled DBT therapists, you’ll explore and address the specific challenges you face such as life transitions, traumatic events, or overall mental health issues, and develop effective coping strategies to work towards achieving your therapeutic goals tailored to your unique needs.

Skills Training

Our Dialectical Behavior Therapy treatment emphasizes the acquisition of practical DBT skills to manage emotions, navigate interpersonal relationship issues, build self-esteem, and cope with distressing situations. These skills are grouped into four modules: mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, emotion regulation, and distress tolerance.

The Benefits of DBT

At Grace & Emerge in Austin, our DBT therapy offers numerous benefits for individuals seeking to improve their emotional well-being and overcome addiction. Here’s just a few of the many benefits:

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Enhanced Emotional Regulation

 

Our DBT Therapy equips individuals with practical skills to effectively manage intense emotions, leading to increased emotional stability and resilience specifically tailored to the individual’s struggles.

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Improved Interpersonal Relationships:

 

By developing interpersonal effectiveness skills within the context of Austin’s diverse community, individuals can enhance communication, establish healthy boundaries, and cultivate fulfilling relationships.

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Effective Distress Tolerance

 

Our Austin DBT treatment teaches strategies to cope with distressing situations, reducing the likelihood of engaging in harmful or impulsive behaviors.

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Increased Mindfulness

 

Mindfulness skills taught in our DBT Therapy program help individuals cultivate present-moment awareness, reduce judgment, and develop a sense of acceptance and compassion towards themselves and others, allowing for a deeper connection.

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Personal Growth and Self-Validation

 

DBT therapy in Austin supports individuals in their journey of self-discovery, fostering personal growth, and helping them develop a stronger sense of self-worth within the culturally rich and diverse environment of Austin.

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What Are Evidence-Based Modalities?

Like all of our therapeutic approaches, DBT has been tried and tested in peer-reviewed journals, federal research studies, and other formats over decades. We believe in the results, and we also are proud of the impact that this tool has had on our own community. Experience the power of evidence-based modalities for yourself.

Other Mental Health Disorders We Treat

DBT is effective in treating depression, borderline personality disorder, suicidal ideation, and many other disorders, including:

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Anxiety

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Bipolar Disorder

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Disordered Eating

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Mood Disorders

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OCD

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Panic Disorder

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PTSD

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Self-Harm

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Social Anxiety Disorder

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Trauma

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And More

Why Choose Grace & Emerge for DBT in Austin?

Selecting the right therapy center is a significant decision that can impact your path to recovery. Grace & Emerge in Austin, Texas, is a premier choice for Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) services. Our commitment to exceeding traditional therapy approaches lies at the core of our offerings. Here’s what sets us apart:

Expert DBT Therapists

 

Our team consists of expertly trained DBT therapists with extensive experience in the field. This team’s proficiency is backed by a deep understanding of DBT principles and techniques, allowing them to provide the most effective therapy methods for your situation. They continuously stay abreast of the latest research and developments in DBT to enhance their ability to serve you better. Their understanding of the local community and the unique pressures it can bring offers additional layers of context and insight to their therapy sessions.

Customized Treatment Plans

 

We recognize the uniqueness of every individual. We understand that therapy is not a one-size-fits-all approach and that every person comes with a distinct set of challenges and objectives. As a result, we dedicate ourselves to tailoring DBT therapy treatment plans to suit your specific needs. Our goal is to foster personalized growth and healing, ensuring that your journey aligns with your pace, comfort level, and long-term wellness objectives. We consistently review and adjust these treatment plans as necessary, ensuring they remain responsive to your evolving needs.

Comprehensive Support

 

Grace & Emerge offers a full range of DBT therapy services in Austin. Our comprehensive approach to treatment includes individual therapy, skills training, group sessions, phone coaching, and more. This breadth and depth of services ensure that you receive well-rounded and integrated support. From providing emotional regulation techniques to teaching mindfulness practices, we’re committed to offering the tools you need for your wellness journey. We believe in walking with you every step of the way, providing consistent support and resources to help you navigate your path to recovery.

Client-Centered Approach

 

Our philosophy at Grace & Emerge places your well-being at the heart of everything we do. This client-centered approach means that we view you as an active participant in your therapy journey, not just a recipient of our services. We work collaboratively with you to develop a strong therapeutic alliance, understanding your goals, values, and personal history. This deep understanding enables us to design a therapy plan that resonates with you and empowers you to achieve lasting change. We strive to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can feel comfortable expressing your thoughts and feelings.

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Find Tools for Living at Grace & Emerge

DBT is just one of the tools the team at Grace & Emerge can give to you to help you build a better life. Contact our team to get started.