DBT at Zen Institute

From EMDR to meditation, I did so much and was able to finally let go of many things that not only haunted me, but kept me in a prison which was only constructed by me. When anxiety attacks happened, I had an array of techniques you (Wen Chi) taught me to use which helped tremendously!" ~Trevor S.~
 
What is DBT?

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a therapy designed to help people change patterns of behavior that are not helpful, such as self-harm, suicidal thinking, and substance abuse.  This approach works towards helping people increase their emotional and cognitive regulation by learning about the triggers that lead to reactive states and helping to assess which coping skills to apply in the sequence of events, thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to help avoid undesired reactions. DBT assumes that people are doing the best they can but are either lacking the skills or are influenced by positive or negative reinforcement that interferes with their ability to function appropriately.

DBT combines standard cognitive behavioral techniques for emotion regulation and reality-testing with concepts of distress tolerance, acceptance, and mindful awareness largely derived from Buddhist meditative practice.*
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Who can benefit from DBT?

​Although DBT was originally created for individuals with borderline-personality disorder, it has significantly evolved, proving valuable for a much wider range of people struggling with a variety of mental health and relationship concerns.  DBT is often used with individuals who suffer from depression, anxiety, codependency, and alcohol/drug abuse, to name a few.

If you are still unsure if you could benefit from DBT, perhaps ask yourself this question – Do I have behaviors or ways of thinking that are potentially becoming harmful to my wellbeing?

If you answered yes, or even maybe, then incorporating DBT skills could absolutely be a great approach to providing some relief.  Essentially, if you want to improve your quality of life and connections with others, you are a good fit for DBT group! 
 
What will I learn about in DBT group at Zen Institute?

Learning DBT is like learning a new language.  Yet, Zen Institute has created a DBT group that is focused on simplicity and effectiveness.  The groups are small, to promote safety, trust, and open discussion.  Participants are taught one skill at a time.  Each skill is coordinated with a worksheet to reinforce the material.  Participants are encouraged to share life experiences and learn from each other.  
       
The group is divided into the four major modules of DBT:
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1. Mindfulness

Mindfulness will challenge you to accept negative thoughts, feelings, or situations as they are, rather than concentrating on how you might want them to be.  Mindfulness is a great tool to help you stay in the present and be non-judgmental toward yourself and others.

2. Emotion Regulation

Emotion regulation will help you identify and understand the functions of your emotions, and provide you with tools to process overwhelming emotions and channel them into positive action.

3. Distress Tolerance

Distress tolerance provides you with tools for self soothing and coping with crisis situations in a positive way.

4. Interpersonal Effectiveness    

The interpersonal effectiveness module will teach you how to get what you want in your relationships.   You will learn to speak up your truth, set healthy boundaries, and create loving relationships.

DBT is a unique style of group therapy.  The tools learned in DBT group can serve you for a lifetime.

This post was contributed by:
Jenna Jarrold, MS, LAC, NCC
Staff Therapist, Zen Institute

*Source: Wikipedia contributors. "Dialectical behavior therapy." Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia, 25 May. 2015. Web. 18 Jun. 2015.