Right Path Counseling Offers Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) in Jericho, NY for Patients on Long Island Struggling with Emotional Regulation, Distress Intolerance, and More
Often in the mental health world, we focus on thoughts and experiences. But our mental health is also made up of emotions. Popular treatment options like CBT are extremely effective, but they are also focused on cognitions and behaviors, and may not be ideal for children and adults with emotional challenges.
DBT, or Dialectical Behavior Therapy, is a psychotherapy treatment designed around emotions. It has similarities to CBT, but takes an approach that is focused extensively on how you feel and how you can control unwanted or extreme emotions. At Right Path Counseling, our therapists understand that some patients need help with their emotions, and together we may choose DBT to treat conditions like personality disorders, eating disorders, depression, trauma recovery, and more.
If you think you’re a candidate for DBT, or you’d like help in choosing a treatment for your emotional needs, fill out our online form or call us at (516) 247-6457 to schedule an appointment.
Easy to Understand Introduction to Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
DBT is a set of techniques based on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). But while CBT focuses on thoughts and behaviors, DBT is focused on feelings. It is beneficial for those with intense emotions. Most mental health conditions have an emotional component, so DBT is appropriate for almost all different types of psychological challenges – including anxiety and depression. But it is primarily for those whose mental health symptoms are defined by or fueled by emotional dysregulation.
DBT successfully treats conditions such as:
- Eating Disorders
- Suicidality
- Drug Abuse
- Self-Harm Behavior
DBT was actually developed for a condition known as “borderline personality disorder,” which is a personality disorder that is defined by an unstable mood. It is considered the gold standard treatment for this type of disorder, but has since been used on other mental health challenges with considerable success.
What’s Involved in DBT?
Within DBT are a series of activities and guidance that help patients better understand their emotions and how to regulate them. Examples might include:
- Acceptance Techniques
- Mindfulness
- Distress Tolerance Techniques
- Emotional Regulation Techniques
- Interpersonal/Social Skills
Patients learn how to self-soothe, how to avoid harmful behaviors as a result of strong emotions, and more. Many patients love DBT because it is so actionable, and those that engage with it often find that they gain better understanding of themselves and their emotions.
Contact Our Therapists on Long Island for More About DBT
One thing to note about DBT is that, while it is highly effective, it is most effective for those with emotional regulation issues. That means that not everyone will benefit from DBT, even within the same conditions. Someone whose anxiety is more cerebral or physical, for example, may not find DBT as useful as CBT or other therapy modalities.
That is why it is so important to schedule a consultation with one of our therapists. By talking with you about how your struggles manifest, we will help find the approach that is best for treating your mental health and making it possible for you to move forward. Contact Right Path Counseling today to get started.