DBT Team (Dialectical Behavior Therapy)

The DBT team (DAM teymi) is a multidisciplinary team that provides Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for individuals with severe emotional difficulties. The treatment is based on the evidence-based therapy developed by Marsha Linehan and involves increased awareness of thoughts and emotions (mindfulness), emotion regulation, interpersonal skills, and distress tolerance.

Treatment goals

The aim of treatment is to improve communication skills, emotional responses, thoughts, and behavior in relation to everyday challenges.

Duration of treatment

The treatment lasts six months and includes weekly group sessions and weekly individual therapy. The involvement of professionals is tailored to each individual.

Family Education

Offered to relatives of patients who are nearing the end of their treatment. Patients receive information about this education toward the end of the program.

Key Components of DBT Therapy

Mindfulness

• Enhances awareness of thoughts, emotions, and bodily reactions

• Improves quality of life and overall well-being

Distress Tolerance

• Methods to soothe difficult emotions temporarily so that more helpful ways of managing stress can be used.

• Enduring difficult situations and emotions without making them worse, and learning to accept reality as it is.

Emotion Regulation

• Education about emotions, identifying one’s own emotions, their role, and how they affect our body and behavior.

• Methods for working with unwanted emotions.

Interpersonal Effectiveness

• Improving communication skills and addressing difficulties in relationships.

• Building and nurturing connections.

Websites:

• BPD World

• Family connections