Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, often called DBT, is an evidence based approach that helps people build skills for managing emotions, stress, and relationships. While DBT was originally developed to support individuals with intense emotional experiences, it is now widely used to help people facing a range of challenges.
Many people seek DBT because they want practical tools that go beyond talking about problems. DBT focuses on learning how to respond differently in moments that feel overwhelming.
The core idea behind DBT
DBT is based on the balance between acceptance and change. This means learning how to accept your current experience while also building skills to create meaningful change in your life.
Rather than asking why emotions happen, DBT focuses on what to do when they arise. This makes it especially helpful for people who feel stuck in cycles of reactivity, avoidance, or conflict.
The four DBT skill areas
DBT skills are usually grouped into four areas:
Mindfulness helps you notice thoughts, emotions, and body sensations without Judging them or becoming overwhelmed by them.
Distress tolerance focuses on getting through difficult moments without making things worse.
Emotion regulation helps you understand emotional patterns and respond with more balance.
Interpersonal effectiveness supports clearer communication, boundaries, and healthier relationships.
These skills are practical and can be applied to daily life, work stress, family dynamics, and personal relationships.
Who DBT can help
DBT can be helpful for people who experience:
Strong emotional reactions
Difficulty managing stress
Impulsive behaviours
Relationship conflict
Patterns of emotional shutdown or overwhelm
It is often used to support individuals with mood concerns, trauma histories, or difficulties with emotional regulation.
DBT in group and individual settings
DBT can be offered in individual therapy, group skills settings, or a combination of both. Group formats allow participants to learn and practise skills alongside others, which can reduce isolation and increase confidence.
DBT informed groups provide an accessible entry point for people who want to learn skills without committing to long term individual therapy.
What is Dialectical Behaviour Therapy?
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy is an evidence based approach that teaches skills for managing emotions, stress, and relationships.
What problems does DBT help with?
DBT supports emotional regulation, impulsivity, distress tolerance, and interpersonal difficulties.
Is DBT only for certain diagnoses?
No. DBT is used to support a wide range of emotional and relational challenges, not just specific diagnoses.
What are DBT skills used for in daily life?
DBT skills help people respond more effectively to stress, conflict, and emotional overwhelm.
Can DBT be learned in a group setting?
Yes. DBT skills are often taught in groups, which allows for shared learning and practice.
Is DBT an evidence based therapy?
Yes. DBT is widely researched and supported as an effective therapeutic approach.
