Find answers to some of the most common questions below. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, feel free to reach out — we’re here to help. You can contact us at [email protected] with any additional questions.
What is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)?
DBT is an evidence-based therapy that focuses on building practical skills to manage emotions, tolerate distress, improve relationships, and stay present. It combines acceptance and change strategies to help you respond more effectively in real-life situations.
What types of problems does DBT help with?
DBT is helpful for a range of concerns, including intense emotions, anxiety, stress, relationship challenges, impulsive behaviors, and difficulty coping with overwhelming situations.
Is DBT Effective?
Yes. DBT is one of the most well-researched and supported therapies for emotion dysregulation and complex mental health needs. It is recommended by:
- The American Psychological Association (APA)
- The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
- The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
Clients often report improved relationships, fewer crisis episodes, and a stronger sense of control over their thoughts and behaviors.
What skills will I learn in DBT?
DBT focuses on four main skill areas:
- Emotional Regulation
- Distress Tolerance
- Interpersonal Effectiveness
- Mindfulness
These skills are designed to help you manage emotions, navigate relationships, and respond to stress in healthier ways.
Is DBT only for people with severe mental health conditions?
No. While DBT was originally developed for more complex conditions, it is now widely used to help anyone who wants to improve emotional regulation, coping, and relationship skills.
Will DBT feel structured?
Yes. DBT is a structured, skills-based approach. Sessions include learning and practicing specific skills, while still allowing space to explore your experiences and apply what you’re learning.
Do I have to practice skills outside of sessions?
Yes. DBT is most effective when skills are practiced between sessions. The goal is to help you use these tools in real-life situations, not just understand them in theory.
How long does DBT take?
The length of DBT varies depending on your goals and needs. Some clients focus on specific skills for a shorter period, while others engage in longer-term work to build and maintain change over time.
Can DBT be combined with other therapies?
Yes. At WellHome Psychology, DBT is often integrated with other therapeutic approaches to create a treatment plan that is individualized and trauma-informed.
What if I’ve tried therapy before and it didn’t help?
DBT may feel different because it focuses on practical, skill-based strategies that you can apply in real time. Many clients find it helpful when other approaches have felt less actionable.
Will DBT help me in real-life situations?
Yes. DBT is specifically designed to help you handle real-life challenges — whether that’s managing emotions in the moment, navigating conflict, or getting through stressful situations without making things worse.
Recommended DBT Videos
Explore these videos to get a feel for DBT skills and how they work:
- What is Dialectical Behavior Therapy?
DBT is an effective way to help people understand and experience their painful thoughts and feelings while finding less dangerous ways to cope.
- What is DBT for adolescents (DBT)?
DBT helps build a life worth living.
- DBT Skills: Mindfulness and Radical Acceptance
Radical acceptance is one of the tolerance skills in DBT.
At WellHome Psychology, we help you take DBT off the page and into your life.
Whether in the therapy room or out in the world, we’re here to help you practice, grow, and thrive—with support every step of the way.
