Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based treatment that helps individuals manage intense emotions and improve interpersonal relationships. With DBT, clients learn to develop healthier coping mechanisms and practice skills to enhance self-awareness, emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness. Riverside Psychology offers dialectical behavioral therapy in Fairfield, Connecticut, to support individuals as they build resilience and work toward a more balanced, fulfilling life.
What Is DBT?
DBT combines elements of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps individuals reframe unhelpful thought patterns, with mindfulness practices. Originally designed to treat borderline personality disorder, DBT has proven effective for various mental health conditions, including trauma, depression, and anxiety.
What Do “Dialectical” and “Behavioral” Mean?
The “D” of DBT is all about balanced and flexible thinking. Dialectical refers to the process of accepting reality while simultaneously working toward change, which means acknowledging big emotions without judgment while taking steps to improve one’s well-being.
The “B” of DBT is about our behavior and reactions to situations. At Riverside Psychology, we believe everyone is doing the best that they can with the skills they have. Our job is to teach you new skills so you can manage your reactions to difficult situations and navigate life’s challenges effectively.
What Is DBT Skills Training?
DBT skills training is a once-weekly individual treatment where our therapists teach you the core skills of DBT and show you how to incorporate them into your daily life. DBT skills can help if you experience the following:
- Emotional instability
- Impulsivity
- Feelings of being lost, disconnected, or isolated from others
- Recurring relationship issues
- Depression or anxiety
- Trouble staying in the present moment
At Riverside Psychology, you can learn the skills needed to live a more peaceful, mindful, and fulfilling life.
DBT Skills Group
If you are looking for a cost-effective way to learn these essential skills and join a community of like-minded people, Riverside Psychology accepts referrals for a weekly DBT skills group. In a DBT skills group, you will learn the four modules of DBT: mindfulness, emotion regulation, interpersonal effectiveness, and distress tolerance. You will also be able to bounce ideas off people with similar experiences and get productive feedback from group leaders.
Supporting You in Your Journey
If you’d like to learn more about dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) in Fairfield, CT, please reach out to Riverside Psychology. We also offer virtual therapy services, and our compassionate therapists are here to guide you on the path to better mental health. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.