A Closer Look at the Pros and Cons of DBT Therapy

In recent years, numerous treatments of mental disorders have been invented, and each of them possesses definite features. Among those, one has received a great deal of attention due to its efficacy, which is called Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and this is the defined form of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). DBT originated from an American-based clinical psychologist by the name of Marsha Linehan. DBT is 40+ years of existence and remains one of the most researched therapeutic interventions in the modern world, with many discussions surrounding the pros and cons of DBT therapy.

That being said, since DBT’s activities allow it to effectively address a large number of behavioural problems, there are circumstances in which using DBT may be less effective. If you’re still debating your options, this article goes over the pros and cons of DBT in addition to offering some alternatives.

You can also read this article : dbt vs cbt which is best for healing trauma 

What is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)?

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy is an empirically supported operational approach that uses mental-social tactics. Therefore, the term “dialectic” refers to the geared and balanced nature of opposites or the equilibrium between transformation and recognition. Generally speaking, it helps you accept the goodness of life while also helping you accept the circumstances as they are.

DBT consists of four primary modules:

Mindfulness DBT uses a tool called mindfulness, which is the ability to focus on the present moment and experience your feelings and thoughts without criticism. This gives you a better understanding of your emotions and allows for self-compassion. To learn more read our best dbt mindfulness skills.

Distress Tolerance This module will show the rationale for behaviour and how to contain perceived hurt or discomfort without causing harm. Two of the things that are explained to you in order to ‘get yourself through the night’ are radical acceptance and self-soothing. Radical acceptance may be as simple as, even though what I went through was unfair, I am going to accept that I feel upset right now.

Emotion Regulation What you learn in this DBT stage is how to identify, understand and manage your emotions. In particular, for those individuals who experience that one or another type of high emotions as over arousing or even uncontrollable, this module may be helpful. We all need to have emotional regulation in society. Let’s face it no one likes temper tantrums at any age.

Interpersonal Effectiveness  Promoting and improving interaction and relation skills defines the aim of this module. These skills not only help you to be assertive and get what you want, they help you to perspective take and allow for other people’s feelings and beliefs to be considered. They also help you to operate from your values so that you feel like you are living an authentic life.

Pros of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

The research has shown that DBT is effective, for example, in the treatment of complex and severe mental health conditions. These are a few of the benefits: 

1. Evidence-Based Success: DBT has been proven in several studies to be effective in the management of different psychological disorders, including eating disorders, PTSD, depression, and anxiety. Studies have shown that DBT is one of the effective methods used in mental health treatment since it helps to reduce black and white thinking, increases radical acceptance, and teaches adaptive skills. 
2. Structured and Holistic Approach: Imaginative and well-structured, the procedural guide of DBT provides therapists and clients with orientation. This is usually complemented with individual therapy, additional skills training, phone coaching, and your therapist tailoring interventions to your needs. They will come up with a comprehensive plan that targets many areas in a patient’s life. 
3. Focus on Skill Development: One can consider DBT’s strong suit being that of encompassing the teaching of functional coping skills to people. These tools help clients manage their feelings, cope with stress, and improve relationships. These skills lead clients to be more effective and endure positive qualities in clients. 
4. Flexibility: While DBT was first developed for the purpose of treating BPD, it has been adapted in the course of time to support other mental health disorders. It is a great tool for people who are just looking for tools for boundaries, relationships, and the like. 
5. Self-acceptance: The notion that being and becoming are interwoven with the self is, thus, a central tenet of DBT. Process and transparency work together to increase acceptance and decrease feelings of shame and self-criticism, all of which are linked to mental health.

The Cons of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

While DBT has many benefits, it also has its drawbacks. Here are some of the cons:

1. Time Consuming: DBT is relatively a time consuming therapy and requires a commitment from the client and the therapist. A standard DBT program involves weekly individual therapy sessions, weekly skills training groups and phone coaching as needed. This level of commitment may be a sacrifice with busy schedules or limited access to mental health services.
2. Resource Dependent: DBT requires specialized training and supervision for therapists which can limit its availability. Finding a DBT therapist can be tough  touching in areas with limited mental health resources. The cost of DBT can be prohibitive for some people especially if insurance coverage is limited.
3. Emotionally Demanding: The nature of DBT involves confronting intense emotions and challenging long-standing. This can feel emotionally draining. Whilst therapists tend to support, some people may feel overwhelmed in the early stages of treatment.
4. Not a Quick Fix: DBT is not a quick solution to mental health issues. The therapy is designed to produce long-term change, which means progress may be slow and gradual. People naturally look for immediate relief from their symptoms. They may need to adjust their expectations and be prepared for a longer treatment journey.
5. Potential Misalignment: DBT’s emphasis on mindfulness and acceptance may not resonate with everyone. Some people have been misinformed that being in the present moment in mindfulness means you are a Buddhist monk. This is not the case because many cultures speak of mindfulness. It is not always clear but cultures like Japan, Turkey, Hawaii, Tibet and Germany all practice forms of mindfulness. Even Scottish culture says “Whit’s fur ye’ll no go by ye” which translates to: What’s for you will not go by you. Our Scottish Gran’s say this to remind us to have patience, relax, and to be myself rather than feel urgency.

In a Nutshell

Dialectical Behavior Therapy is a powerful evidence-based treatment for many mental health conditions. Its structure, skill development and self-acceptance make it a great tool for people who want to manage emotional and behavioral challenges. However DBT is time consuming, resource dependent and emotionally demanding for some. Ultimately the decision to do DBT should be made in consultation with a qualified mental health professional who can help determine if this is the right fit for you. By weighing the pros and cons you can make an informed decision if DBT is the path to more emotional well-being and resilience. In case you decide to pursue a DBT therapist, Art Therapy is there to help you with it!