DBT (Dialectical Behavioural Therapy)

DBT is a close relative of cognitive behavioural therapy; it was initially developed for individuals with borderline personality disorder who cope with distressing emotions by using self-destructive behaviours such as self-harm, substance misuse, and eating disorders. During therapy, the therapist uses acceptance strategies to explain to clients that their behaviour (e.g. self-harm, substance misuse, etc), is understandable as it is the only way they have learned to deal with intense emotions. However, the therapist will then explain that this method is not the best solution to these negative emotions and can begin to demonstrate more effective ways of dealing with intense negative emotion.