Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) is a therapeutic approach primarily developed to treat individuals with borderline personality disorder (BPD). Rooted in cognitive-behavioural techniques, DBT combines acceptance and change strategies to help individuals build essential skills in:

• Emotional regulation.
• Interpersonal effectiveness.
• Distress tolerance.
• Mindfulness.

The "dialectical" aspect of DBT refers to the integration of seemingly contradictory principles - acceptance and change - to create a balanced therapeutic framework.

DBT is known for its emphasis on validation, non-judgemental acceptance, and the concept of dialectics, which fosters a collaborative and empathetic therapeutic relationship. Beyond its initial use for BPD, DBT has proven effective in treating a variety of mental health challenges, including mood disorders, eating disorders, and substance abuse, making it a versatile and widely used approach.

How DBT helps mental health challenges

DBT is effective in helping individuals manage intense emotions, reduce impulsive behaviours, and improve relationships. By combining cognitive-behavioural strategies with mindfulness techniques, DBT teaches clients to recognise and regulate their emotions. This approach fosters a non-judgemental environment, promoting self-compassion and acceptance.

The structured nature of DBT involves both individual therapy and group skills training. These sessions provide practical tools to manage life’s challenges and build resilience.

DBT at our Toowoomba clinic

At our clinic in Toowoomba, we offer both individual DBT therapy sessions and group skills training. Individual sessions focus on personal challenges, goal-setting, and coping strategies. Group sessions cover the four core modules of DBT: distress tolerance, emotion regulation, interpersonal effectiveness, and mindfulness.

Our therapists use a collaborative approach, offering validation and support while encouraging clients to make positive changes. DBT’s combination of empathy and structure helps individuals develop lasting skills for emotional regulation and interpersonal effectiveness.

For more information, call us at (07) 4639 3367. Our mental health-focused reception staff will be happy to assist and recommend the best practitioner for your needs.