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what is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) & where can we learn

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

What is DBT?

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based psychotherapy developed by American psychologist Marsha M. Linehan in the 1980s. Initially designed to treat Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), DBT is now effectively used to treat a wide range of mental health conditions, including suicidal behavior, self-harm, emotional dysregulation, eating disorders, depression, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and substance use disorders.

The core philosophy of DBT is:

“Accept yourself as you are, but also work to change.”

The Four Core Modules of DBT

DBT is structured around four primary skill areas that help clients develop greater emotional and behavioral control:

1. Mindfulness

  • Increases present-moment awareness.
  • Helps individuals observe and describe thoughts and emotions without judgment.
  • Strengthens focus and self-awareness.

2. Distress Tolerance

  • Teaches how to endure painful emotions or crises without resorting to harmful behavior.
  • Includes techniques like ACCEPTS, TIPP, and IMPROVE for surviving intense emotional experiences.

3. Emotion Regulation

  • Helps individuals identify, understand, and manage intense emotions.
  • Reduces emotional vulnerability and reactivity.
  • Promotes emotional stability and well-being.

4. Interpersonal Effectiveness

  • Enhances skills for assertive communication and relationship building.
  • Focuses on expressing needs, setting boundaries, and maintaining self-respect.
  • Uses techniques like DEAR MAN, GIVE, and FAST.

 

Who Can Benefit from DBT?

DBT can be beneficial for people of various ages and backgrounds, particularly those who:

  • Experience intense and unstable emotions.
  • Struggle with suicidal thoughts or self-injurious behavior.
  • Have difficulties maintaining relationships.
  • Frequently act impulsively or destructively.
  • Live with trauma-related disorders or chronic emotional pain.
  • Engage in substance abuse, disordered eating, or other harmful behaviors.

Note: DBT is most effective when delivered by a trained therapist, although some DBT skills can be self-taught and practiced independently.

When is DBT Used?

DBT is primarily used in the treatment of the following conditions:

- Borderline Personality Disorder

- Suicidal Ideation or Behaviors

- Non-Suicidal Self-Injury (NSSI)

- Emotion Dysregulation

- Eating Disorders (e.g., bulimia)

- Substance Use Disorders

- PTSD / Complex Trauma

- ADHD or Impulsivity Issues

Structure of a DBT Program

A standard DBT treatment program includes four components:

  1. Individual Therapy: One-on-one sessions focusing on the client's specific problems and progress using DBT strategies.
  2. Skills Training Group: Weekly group sessions where clients learn and practice DBT skills from all four modules.
  3. Phone Coaching: On-demand coaching for applying DBT skills in real-life situations.
  4. Therapist Consultation Team: A support structure for DBT therapists to maintain treatment quality and therapist well-being.

 

Scientific Evidence for DBT

DBT is one of the most researched and evidence-supported therapies in the world. Numerous studies have shown that DBT:

  • Reduces suicidal behavior and hospitalizations.
  • Improves emotional and behavioral regulation.
  • Enhances interpersonal functioning.
  • Increases self-esteem and overall functioning.

 

DBT in the Context of Bangladesh

In Bangladesh, DBT is still relatively new but is gradually gaining attention among mental health professionals. With rising rates of emotional distress, trauma, and self-harm—especially among youth—DBT is becoming a relevant and effective therapeutic tool. Some trained psychologists and clinics are now incorporating DBT in their practice.

Conclusion

DBT is more than just a therapy—it’s a way of living. It teaches individuals how to accept their reality, regulate their emotions, manage crises, and form healthier relationships. At a time when emotional challenges are overwhelming many lives, DBT provides a practical and hopeful path forward.

Now you can get international standard Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) training right here in Bangladesh! In the Bangladesh Institute of Forensic Psychology and Sciences (BIFPS) batch, renowned Indian Clinical Psychologists Dr. Prashanta Kumar Roy and Dr. Doyel Ghosh are conducting training directly in Bengali. This course is highly effective for managing anger control, addiction, personality disorders, and suicidal tendencies. Register now during the special Eid offer - for only 5,000 BDT you get 8 video classes, masterclasses, hardcopy certificate, and expert support! For details, call: +8801988-896656

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