Dialectical Behavior Therapy
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) was the first evidence-based treatment for BPD. Developed by Marsha Linehan , this was the first psycho- therapy for BPD to undergo successful clinical trials. The introduction of DBT was a turning point in the treatment of the disorder, and its principles lie at the core of all successful therapy in this population. Here, at last, was a practical approach that targeted the key traits and symptoms of BPD.
Today, DBT remains the leading evidence-based method of therapy for patients with BPD. It is an adaptation of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), combined with interventions common to other approaches, but specifically designed to target the emotion dysregulation that characterizes BPD, and to reduce impulsive behaviors. It applies chain analysis to incidents leading to self-injury and overdoses—that is, showing patients what emotions lead up to impulsive behaviors and teaching them alternative ways of handling dysphoric emotions. DBT also emphasizes empathic responses to distress that provide validation for the inner experience of patients. The program consists of weekly individual therapy, group psychoeducation, telephone availability for coaching, as well as support through consultation for therapists undertaking these procedures.
The method is an eclectic mix of behavior therapy, CBT, mindfulness based on Zen Buddhism, and original ideas such as radical acceptance. These techniques have been described in some detail
