DBT is the term for a type of psychotherapy developed by Marsha Linehan, Ph.D.  that was first used to treat Borderline Personality Disorder. Since that time it has been validated for the treatment of several other psychiatric issues including eating disorders, self-injury, depression, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), alcohol and drug problems, and overall problems with coping skills.

Most importantly, standard DBT involves 4 components:

1. Individual Psychotherapy
2. Group Psychotherapy (Skills Group)
3. Telephone-based Skills Therapy
4. Psychotherapist involvement in a peer consultation group

Without all 4 of these 4 components, a clinician is NOT doing DBT, only parts of DBT.  It is essential for patients to be informed about their clinician's training and experience in using DBT--particularly whether or not they are involved with a weekly peer consultation group. Additionally, determining whether their training was sponsored by Behavioral Tech, LLC helps ensure that Marsha LInehan's techniques are applied in a systematic manner.  Additionally, inquire as to whether your clinician plans to obtain certification as a DBT practitioner.

Click to learn about my DBT Skills Group in Nashville