Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) in Massachusetts
Struggling with powerful emotions can make everyday life tougher. At Aftermath Behavioral Health, we help remedy this struggle with dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). This proven technique forms part of individualized treatment plans at our center to help you improve your mental health.
What Is DBT?
Standard behavioral therapy helps change negative behaviors and thought patterns. Dialectical behavior therapy takes this a step further. In the 1980s, Dr. Marsha Linehan developed DBT to treat those with chronic suicidal thoughts and borderline personality disorder (BPD). It draws on the change-focused skills of cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and Zen principles. Linehan’s structured model has since become a beacon of support for emotional well-being.
DBT vs. CBT
Both therapies help change unhelpful thoughts and behavioral patterns. CBT, however, hones in on thought patterns. DBT goes deeper and also focuses on how negative thoughts and behaviors can affect emotions and relationships.
What Is Dialectical Behavior Therapy Used For?
DBT helps treat various mental health conditions. It’s particularly beneficial for those that involve emotional challenges and poor stress management. To differing extents, it can help with the following:
- Addictive Disorders
- Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Depressive Disorders, including Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
- Mood Disorders, including Bipolar Spectrum Disorders
- Trauma-Related Disorders, including Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Anxiety Disorders
- Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)
- Emotional Self-Harm
- Personality Disorders
- Attachment Disorders
- Co-Occurring Disorders (Dual Diagnosis)
- Grief and Loss
- Suicidal Ideation
How Does DBT Work?
This approach teaches practical skills to help you handle life’s challenges. DBT also helps you gain a sense of control without getting overwhelmed. Weekly individual therapy, group skills training, and support work together to bring lasting change.
Essential Elements
Dialectical behavior therapy is grounded in four principles: dialectics, acceptance, change, and mindfulness. At its core, it’s about finding balance between accepting your emotions and learning to respond to them in healthier ways. You’re encouraged to hold two truths at once: that you’re doing your best and that there’s room to grow.
DBT teaches practical skills to manage intense emotions, navigate relationships, build resilience, and stay present in the moment. It blends structure with compassion, helping people build a more stable and intentional life.
DBT Skills
DBT’s six main groups each provide useful skills:
1
Mindfulness – Learn to stay present and aware without judgment. This foundational skill helps with conditions like anxiety and PTSD.
2
Distress Tolerance – Manage impulsive actions when emotions are intense. These skills are particularly valuable for mood disorders and suicidal thoughts.
3
Emotion Regulation – Identify, understand, and manage your emotions effectively. This helps with depression and emotional stability in bipolar disorder.
4
Interpersonal Effectiveness – Interact and share your needs while preserving relationships. These skills especially help improve behavioral patterns for those with personality disorders.
5
Radical Acceptance – Acknowledge and accept feelings and experiences without judgment.
6
Dialectical Thinking – Find harmony between conflicting thoughts or feelings.
Outpatient Programs at Aftermath Behavioral Health
At Aftermath, we understand that everyone’s path to recovery can look different. Our varied levels of care account for this and provide customizable program options to suit your needs.
Psychiatric Day Treatment
Also known as Mental Health Day Treatment, this program provides immersive care for several hours each day, five to seven days a week. As our most intensive level, this is best for those who need structured care but can still return home each evening.
Intensive Psychiatric Outpatient
Our Intensive Psychiatric Program lasts for a few weeks to several months, depending on your needs. With a few sessions each week in the daytime or evening, you can still keep up with other obligations outside of treatment.
Outpatient Mental Health
The flexibility of our Outpatient Program ensures daytime, evening, or weekend sessions, making it easy to fit into your schedule. This is a great level for those who have completed more intensive programs and want to maintain support.
Get Expert DBT Therapy at Aftermath Behavioral Health
Our licensed counselors and psychiatric nurse practitioners work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that may include DBT. We take the time to understand your goals and what you’re going through, so your care fits your needs. You’ll gain practical skills you can start using right away, along with support as you practice them in everyday life. If you’re ready to start feeling better, reach out today.
FAQs
Does dialectical behavior therapy work?
Research confirms that DBT is effective, especially for emotional regulation problems and self-harming behaviors.
What's the difference between DBT and CBT?
DBT focuses on mindfulness and acceptance, emphasizing emotional regulation and relationships more than standard CBT.
Is DBT the best treatment for borderline personality disorder?
It was specifically designed for BPD and has strong research-based evidence of its effectiveness.
How do I make a DBT therapy appointment?
You can reach out to inquire about our offerings regarding your mental health needs. DBT is often included in most of our programs, depending on individual needs.
What are the six main points of dialectical behavior therapy?
There are six core attributes of DBT. These include mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, interpersonal effectiveness, dialectical thinking, and radical acceptance. Each teaches you different skills to improve your mental health.