What is the primary goal of Dialectical Behavior Therapy?

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) was developed specifically to help individuals manage intense emotions and improve their overall emotional regulation. The primary goal of this therapeutic approach is to teach coping skills that enable individuals to effectively manage their emotions, reduce self-destructive behaviors, and enhance their ability to handle distressing situations.

DBT combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness practices, encouraging clients to be present in the moment while also developing skills to change unhealthy behavioral patterns. It emphasizes the importance of acceptance and change, helping individuals learn how to navigate emotional challenges more effectively. By focusing on emotions and providing practical skills to cope with them, DBT has been shown to be particularly beneficial for those dealing with mood disorders, suicidal ideation, and borderline personality disorder.

This aligns with the core principles of DBT, which prioritize emotional understanding and skill-building for better management of one’s emotional landscape.