Dialectic Behavioral Therapy Skills

Dialectic Behavioral Therapy Skills

There are four main therapy modules which compose the skeleton of the dialectic behavioral theory.  The four main therapy modules are:

Core Mindfulness

Being present in the moment and not ruminating on the past or worrying about the future. Mindfulness suggests awareness of what is. “Observe, discribe and participate” encourages being an active participants in the present moment. “Non judgmentally, one mindfully” suggest engaging in one activity or thought at a time.

Emotion Regulation

Learning how to balance your emotions by separating yourself from the emotional experience.

Interpersonal Effectiveness Skills

Learning skills to effectively communicate and relate to others as well as getting your needs met. This skill is frequently used in any assertive communication problem solving lessons: the lessons include saying no/boundary setting, assertively asking for what one needs and conflict resolving.

Distress Tolerance

Specific tools to help cope during a distressing moment or personal crisis. An appropriate alternative to self harming behaviors such as substance use, cutting, etc.