Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Treating Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, & Addiction in Young Women

Women face unique challenges when it comes to mental health, and Grace & Emerge Recovery was built in recognition of that fact. For example, more women than men are diagnosed with borderline personality disorder, with most diagnoses coming in late adolescence or young adulthood. One of the most powerful evidence-based tools that we have for addressing BPD and other mental health challenges for young adult women is dialectical behavior therapy (DBT).

young women dbt therapy
young womens treatment grace and emerge

What is DBT?

Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) helps clients learn to identify, address, and understand overwhelming emotions, choosing healthier coping mechanisms along the way. DBT:

  1. 24-GEM-0033-Website

    Involves learning special skills

  2. 24-GEM-0033-Website

    Is technically a form of talk therapy

  3. 24-GEM-0033-Website

    Was invented in the 1970s by Marsha Linehan

  4. 24-GEM-0033-Website

    Expands distress tolerance

  5. 24-GEM-0033-Website

    Requires professional clinical guidance

  6. 24-GEM-0033-Website

    Helps in treating borderline personality disorder and other disorders

  7. 24-GEM-0033-Website

    Teaches clients mindfulness strategies

  8. 24-GEM-0033-Website

    Improves emotional regulation ability

Who Can DBT Help?

Suicide researcher Marsha Linehan developed DBT as a tool for her clients struggling with self-harm and suicidal ideation. It has evolved as a tool for the treatment of other mental health disorders, including:

  1. 24-GEM-0033-Website

    Anxiety

  2. 24-GEM-0033-Website

    Borderline personality disorder

  3. 24-GEM-0033-Website

    Depression

  4. 24-GEM-0033-Website

    Disordered eating

  5. 24-GEM-0033-Website

    Substance use disorder

  6. 24-GEM-0033-Website

    Suicidal ideation

  7. 24-GEM-0033-Website

    Self-harm 

24-GEM-0033-Website2

DBT & Mental Health Treatment

The caring clinicians at Grace & Emerge utilize DBT alongside other evidence-based modalities, such as:

24-GEM-0033-Website

Attachment-based therapy

24-GEM-0033-Website

Adventure therapy

24-GEM-0033-Website

Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT)

24-GEM-0033-Website

Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)

24-GEM-0033-Website

Family therapy

24-GEM-0033-Website

Group therapy

24-GEM-0033-Website

Polyvagal theory

young women trauma therapy

DBT for Depression

DBT was conceived as a tool for suicidal ideation, which is often a symptom of depression. In the decades since, it has shown promise for treating many kinds of depression: In one 2008 study, clients showed “significantly greater improvement” in their symptoms after a course of DBT for depression treatment. The effect was most marked among those whose depression had been treatment-resistant. If you or a loved one has struggled to overcome depression, DBT can help.

DBT for Borderline Personality Disorder

AAccording to the DSM-V, symptoms of borderline personality disorder first emerge in adolescence and young adulthood. Without treatment, challenges can plague women for their entire lives. Mood swings, suicidal ideation, self-harm, low self-esteem and identity issues — all of these and more are indicators of BPD, and all can be successfully treated with comprehensive DBT. 

In DBT, clients work through four modules to learn core skills: core mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, emotion regulation, and distress tolerance. Continued treatment is necessary in order to deeply integrate and maintain those skills, but it’s possible to find peace with the help of DBT.

DBT for Mental Health Disorders

DBT can be a useful tool for treating a variety of mental health disorders. However, is is not a good fit for clients with:

  1. 24-GEM-0033-Website

    Intellectual disabilities

  2. 24-GEM-0033-Website

    Active psychosis

  3. 24-GEM-0033-Website

    Schizophrenia

  4. 24-GEM-0033-Website

    Other thought disorders that would make it difficult to learn the skills

young women alcohol rehab austin tx

24-GEM-0033-Website3-1

How DBT Works

Individual Therapy

In one-on-one sessions with our skilled DBT therapists, you’ll explore and address the specific challenges you face such as life transitions, traumatic events, or overall mental health issues, and develop effective coping strategies to work towards achieving your therapeutic goals tailored to your unique needs.

Skills Training

Our Dialectical Behavior Therapy treatment emphasizes the acquisition of practical DBT skills to manage emotions, navigate interpersonal relationship issues, build self-esteem, and cope with distressing situations. These skills are grouped into four modules: mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, emotion regulation, and distress tolerance.

The Benefits of DBT

At Grace & Emerge in Austin, our DBT therapy offers numerous benefits for individuals seeking to improve their emotional well-being and overcome addiction. Here’s just a few of the many benefits:

24-GEM-0033-Website

Enhanced Emotional Regulation

 

Our DBT Therapy equips individuals with practical skills to effectively manage intense emotions, leading to increased emotional stability and resilience specifically tailored to the individual’s struggles.

24-GEM-0033-Website

Improved Interpersonal Relationships:

 

By developing interpersonal effectiveness skills within the context of Austin’s diverse community, individuals can enhance communication, establish healthy boundaries, and cultivate fulfilling relationships.

24-GEM-0033-Website

Effective Distress Tolerance

 

Our Austin DBT treatment teaches strategies to cope with distressing situations, reducing the likelihood of engaging in harmful or impulsive behaviors.

24-GEM-0033-Website

Increased Mindfulness

 

Mindfulness skills taught in our DBT Therapy program help individuals cultivate present-moment awareness, reduce judgment, and develop a sense of acceptance and compassion towards themselves and others, allowing for a deeper connection.

24-GEM-0033-Website

Personal Growth and Self-Validation

 

DBT therapy in Austin supports individuals in their journey of self-discovery, fostering personal growth, and helping them develop a stronger sense of self-worth within the culturally rich and diverse environment of Austin.

young women emdr therapy

What Are Evidence-Based Modalities?

Like all of our therapeutic approaches, DBT has been tried and tested in peer-reviewed journals, federal research studies, and other formats over decades. We believe in the results, and we also are proud of the impact that this tool has had on our own community. Experience the power of evidence-based modalities for yourself.

Other Mental Health Disorders We Treat

DBT is effective in treating depression, borderline personality disorder, suicidal ideation, and many other disorders, including:

24-GEM-0033-Website

Anxiety

24-GEM-0033-Website

Bipolar Disorder

24-GEM-0033-Website

Disordered Eating

24-GEM-0033-Website

Mood Disorders

24-GEM-0033-Website

OCD

24-GEM-0033-Website

Panic Disorder

24-GEM-0033-Website

PTSD

24-GEM-0033-Website

Self-Harm

24-GEM-0033-Website

Social Anxiety Disorder

24-GEM-0033-Website

Trauma

24-GEM-0033-Website

And More

Why Choose Grace & Emerge for DBT in Austin?

Selecting the right therapy center is a significant decision that can impact your path to recovery. Grace & Emerge in Austin, Texas, is a premier choice for Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) services. Our commitment to exceeding traditional therapy approaches lies at the core of our offerings. Here’s what sets us apart:

Expert DBT Therapists

 

Our team consists of expertly trained DBT therapists with extensive experience in the field. This team’s proficiency is backed by a deep understanding of DBT principles and techniques, allowing them to provide the most effective therapy methods for your situation. They continuously stay abreast of the latest research and developments in DBT to enhance their ability to serve you better. Their understanding of the local community and the unique pressures it can bring offers additional layers of context and insight to their therapy sessions.

Customized Treatment Plans

 

We recognize the uniqueness of every individual. We understand that therapy is not a one-size-fits-all approach and that every person comes with a distinct set of challenges and objectives. As a result, we dedicate ourselves to tailoring DBT therapy treatment plans to suit your specific needs. Our goal is to foster personalized growth and healing, ensuring that your journey aligns with your pace, comfort level, and long-term wellness objectives. We consistently review and adjust these treatment plans as necessary, ensuring they remain responsive to your evolving needs.

Comprehensive Support

 

Grace & Emerge offers a full range of DBT therapy services in Austin. Our comprehensive approach to treatment includes individual therapy, skills training, group sessions, phone coaching, and more. This breadth and depth of services ensure that you receive well-rounded and integrated support. From providing emotional regulation techniques to teaching mindfulness practices, we’re committed to offering the tools you need for your wellness journey. We believe in walking with you every step of the way, providing consistent support and resources to help you navigate your path to recovery.

Client-Centered Approach

 

Our philosophy at Grace & Emerge places your well-being at the heart of everything we do. This client-centered approach means that we view you as an active participant in your therapy journey, not just a recipient of our services. We work collaboratively with you to develop a strong therapeutic alliance, understanding your goals, values, and personal history. This deep understanding enables us to design a therapy plan that resonates with you and empowers you to achieve lasting change. We strive to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can feel comfortable expressing your thoughts and feelings.

24-GEM-0033-Website

Find Tools for Living at Grace & Emerge

DBT is just one of the tools the team at Grace & Emerge can give to you to help you build a better life. Contact our team to get started.