DIALECTICAL BEHAVIOR THERAPY (DBT)
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) represents a significant development in psychological treatment by combining the principles of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with mindfulness practices. Originally developed to help people with borderline personality disorder, DBT has proven particularly effective for people who exhibit self-injurious behavior or struggle with severe emotional instability. The therapy is evidence-based and takes a unique approach by combining standard CBT techniques, which focus on changing harmful patterns of thinking and behavior, with mindfulness, which is about living in the moment and accepting current reality. This dual approach helps patients develop important skills to manage their emotions, tolerate stress and navigate interpersonal relationships.
DBT is characterized by its focus on four main skill sets: emotional regulation, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and mindfulness. Emotional regulation involves learning to manage and respond to intense emotions in a less reactive and more mindful way. Distress tolerance is about accepting and finding ways to survive and tolerate distress without resorting to self-destructive behaviors. Interpersonal effectiveness revolves around the skills necessary to communicate effectively and assert one’s needs while maintaining self-respect and relationships with others. Finally, mindfulness, borrowed from Buddhist traditions, helps individuals to be present in the moment and engaged in their current environment, fostering an awareness that is free of judgment and reactivity.
If you are seeking help and a compassionate ear, please don’t hesitate to contact me, Zita Chriszto, for professional support and guidance on your journey to wellbeing.
Key aspects of DBT include
- Combination of CBT and Mindfulness: Integrates CBT techniques with mindfulness practices for a comprehensive therapeutic approach.
- Target Population: Especially beneficial for individuals with borderline personality disorder and self-harm tendencies.
- Focus on Skill Development: Concentrates on building skills in emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness.
- Mindfulness Practices: Incorporates mindfulness to enhance present-moment awareness and acceptance.
- Evidence-Based: Supported by research, showing effectiveness in reducing symptoms and improving quality of life.
I am Zita Chriszto, a DHA licensed clinical psychologist based in Dubai. My professional approach is deeply rooted in providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each individual’s needs.
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Phone/Whatsapp: +971 58 566 9327
E-Mail: info@dubaipsychology.ae
Our location
Genesis Healthcare Center
Dubai Science Park Towers
North Tower
3rd & 4th Floor
Dubai Science Park
Dubai UAE