Achieve Mental Wellness with Carlsbad Family Therapy Therapy

What is DBT?
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based treatment originally developed by Marsha M. Linehan, Ph.D.for individuals struggling with intense emotions, relationship difficulties, or self-destructive behaviors. DBT combines principles of mindfulness, acceptance, and behavior change to help people build a life worth living.

At Carlsbad Family Therapy, DBT is used to support clients who want to better understand their emotions, improve relationships, and learn healthier ways to cope with stress.

The Four Core Skills of DBT

1. Mindfulness – Learning to stay present, grounded, and aware in the moment.
2. Distress Tolerance – Building tools to get through painful situations without making things worse.
3. Emotion Regulation – Understanding emotions and developing strategies to manage them effectively.
4. Interpersonal Effectiveness – Communicating clearly, setting boundaries, and maintaining healthy relationships.

What DBT Can Help With

• Intense or rapidly shifting emotions
• Anxiety, depression, and mood disorders
• Trauma and PTSD symptoms
• Self-harm urges and suicidal thoughts
• Difficulty in relationships
• Stress and overwhelm

Benefits of DBT

• Improved coping skills for stress and crisis
• Healthier, more balanced relationships
• Greater emotional stability and resilience
• Increased self-awareness and acceptance
• A sense of empowerment and hope for change

Reference
Linehan, M. M. (2015). DBT® Skills Training Manual (2nd ed.). New York: Guilford Press.