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If you need help handling your anxiety or depression, you should consider dialectical behavior therapy in Clifton, NJ, at Adult Family Health Services. We understand that life can be overwhelming, and daily stressors can compound already strong feelings. DBT is a proven treatment method that teaches practical skills for managing emotions and improving relationships. Our trained therapists use it to help clients develop the tools they need for lasting change. We’ve seen firsthand how it can transform lives, and we’re happy to share this specialized therapy with you in a safe, supportive environment.

Introduction to Dialectical Behavior Therapy

Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) was developed by Dr. Marsha Linehan in the 1970s. She created it to help people with borderline personality disorder, but research has since shown it works well for many different mental health conditions. DBT requires patients to accept themselves as they are while also working to change unhelpful behaviors. Balance is key to therapy’s success. The treatment combines elements from different therapy approaches, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness practices, and emotion regulation strategies.

Key Components of DBT

DBT has four main skill areas that work together:

• Mindfulness forms the foundation of all other skills. It teaches you to stay present and aware of your thoughts and feelings without judgment. These skills help you observe what’s happening inside your mind without getting overwhelmed.

• Distress Tolerance skills help you cope with crises without making them worse. You’ll learn healthy ways to get through difficult emotions without turning to harmful behaviors.

• Emotion Regulation teaches you to understand and manage your emotions better. These skills help you identify your feelings and respond in effective ways rather than reacting impulsively.

• Interpersonal Effectiveness focuses on building better relationships. You’ll learn how to communicate your needs, set boundaries, and resolve conflicts in healthy ways.

How DBT Works?

DBT typically involves individual therapy sessions and group skills training. In individual sessions, you work one-on-one with your dialectical behavior therapist to apply DBT skills to your specific situations. Group sessions focus on learning and practicing the four skill areas. Some types of dialectical behavior therapy even include intensive outpatient options that meet several times per week.

Dialectical behavior therapy also emphasizes the importance of practice outside of therapy sessions. You’ll complete homework assignments and use skills in your daily life. This real-world practice is essential for lasting change.

Who’s a Candidate for DBT?

DBT can help many people, but it’s especially effective for certain conditions. Dialectical behavior therapy for anxiety has shown excellent results. Mindfulness and distress tolerance skills are particularly helpful for managing the condition.

People with depression, eating disorders, substance abuse problems, and relationship difficulties also benefit from DBT. But you don’t need a specific diagnosis to reap the rewards of therapy. Many people find the skills useful for general stress management and improving their quality of life.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy Benefits

Research shows that DBT offers many benefits that will stick with you long after therapy ends. Those who complete DBT treatment often report:

• Better emotional control

• Improved relationships

• Reduced anxiety and depression

• Fewer impulsive behaviors

• Better coping skills

• Increased self-acceptance

• Greater life satisfaction

Challenges and Limitations of DBT

Like any treatment, DBT has some challenges. Understanding the pros and cons of dialectical behavior therapy can help you make an informed decision about it.

• DBT requires commitment and active participation. You’ll need to attend sessions regularly and practice skills outside of therapy. Some people find this demanding, especially at first.

• The therapy can bring up difficult emotions as you work through problems. This is part of the healing process, but it can be uncomfortable.

• People with certain conditions or those who aren’t ready to make changes might benefit more from other types of therapy.

How to Get Started With DBT?

The first step is reaching out for help. Contact Adult Family Health Services to discuss whether DBT is right for you. During an initial consultation, our experts will assess your needs and explain how DBT works. We’ll also help you understand what to expect and answer any questions you have.

Be prepared to commit to the process. DBT works best when you’re actively engaged and willing to practice new skills.

You Can Rely on Adult Family Health Services

Adult Family Health Services brings years of experience in dialectical behavior therapy. We continue working with the latest research and techniques to provide the best possible care. Furthermore, our team understands that starting therapy can feel overwhelming. That’s why we create a welcoming, non-judgmental environment for our patients to explore and grow.

Contact Our Dialectical Behavior Therapists Today

Taking the first step toward better mental health requires courage, but it will provide you with new skills and create positive changes in your life. When you’re ready, contact us in Clifton, NJ, to schedule a consultation with our dialectical behavior therapists to determine if DBT is right for you.