Struggling with intense emotions, relationship conflicts, or impulsive behaviors? Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) at Red Bank Counseling in Monmouth County, NJ, provides a structured, evidence-based approach to help individuals develop emotional regulation, mindfulness, and effective coping strategies.
Whether you’re facing challenges related to anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorder, or self-destructive behaviors, DBT equips you with practical skills to navigate life’s difficulties with greater balance and resilience. Our compassionate therapists are here to guide you through the process, offering tailored support to help you build a healthier, more fulfilling life.
What is Dialectical Behavior Therapy?
Originally designed for individuals with borderline personality disorder (BPD), Dialectical Behavior Therapy has since proven effective in treating a range of mental health conditions. This includes depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, eating disorders, and substance abuse. DBT focuses on two primary principles: acceptance and change. This means learning to accept yourself and your emotions while simultaneously working toward positive change in your thoughts, behaviors, and interactions with others.
The 4 Modalities of DBT and What They Mean
Dialectical Behavior Therapy focuses on four specific areas of therapeutic skills. These are:
- Mindfulness– Enables individuals to become more present in the moment, reducing impulsive reactions and increasing self-awareness.
- Distress tolerance– Focuses on increasing a person’s ability to tolerate and manage distressing emotions rather than avoiding or suppressing them.
- Emotion regulation– Teaches strategies to help individuals manage overwhelming emotions effectively and prevent them from leading to destructive behaviors.
- Interpersonal effectiveness– Helps individuals improve communication, assertiveness, and boundary-setting skills to strengthen relationships and maintain self-respect.
How Does Dialectical Behavior Therapy Work?
Unmanaged negative emotions often influence our daily lives in ways we don’t always recognize. These feelings can shape our self-perception and impact the way we communicate and connect with others, including family, friends, and romantic partners.
Through Dialectical Behavior Therapy, we work with individuals in Monmouth County to help them find ways to manage their negative emotions. Over time, this empowers them to feel more in control and balanced. It also helps them to interact respectfully and successfully. The approach to DBT typically includes:
- Individual therapy sessions – One-on-one sessions with a therapist to help individuals put to use DBT skills in their lives, deal with challenges, and stay motivated in progress.
- DBT skills group – Group sessions provide a supportive environment to learn and practice DBT skills alongside others facing similar challenges.
- Coaching and homework assignments – Therapists often provide additional guidance outside of sessions, such as phone coaching or exercises to reinforce newly learned skills.
Frequently Asked Questions About DBT
If you’re considering Dialectical Behavior Therapy, you may have some questions about how it works and what to expect. Here are a few common ones and the answers to each:
How Long Does DBT Take?
The length of Dialectical Behavior Therapy treatment varies based on individual needs, but a full DBT program typically lasts six months to a year. Some individuals may continue therapy beyond this time for ongoing support.
Is DBT Only for Those With Borderline Personality Disorder?
No, while DBT was initially developed for BPD, it has been successfully adapted for individuals struggling with a variety of mental health conditions.
What’s the Difference Between DBT and CBT?
While DBT is rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), it differs by incorporating mindfulness and emotional regulation techniques. DBT places a stronger emphasis on acceptance, distress tolerance, and interpersonal relationships.
Do I Need to Attend Both Individual and Group Sessions?
Dialectical Behavior Therapy is most effective when individuals participate in both individual therapy and skills groups. Individual sessions provide personalized guidance, while group sessions offer opportunities to practice skills in a supportive environment.
Find a Dialectical Behavior Therapist in Monmouth County, NJ
If you or a loved one is struggling with emotional regulation, distress tolerance, or relationship challenges, DBT can provide the tools needed for lasting change. At Red Bank Counseling in Monmouth County, NJ, our compassionate and experienced therapists specialize in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, offering personalized support tailored to your needs. Contact us today to learn more about our DBT services and how we may be able to help.