I was recently asked what the difference between these two therapies are to help a person better understand how they work and what they can help with.
I thought I'd share my email response so you could know too! At the King's Forge Counseling, we use either method (or both) to help tailor treatment to each individual client.
"Hey there, I wanted to clarify the difference between Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), as both are effective therapeutic approaches, but they serve different purposes and are used in distinct ways.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT is a structured, short-term therapy that helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to emotional distress. CBT focuses on understanding how our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected. It’s often used to treat conditions like anxiety, depression, and phobias by teaching coping skills, restructuring thought patterns, and promoting healthier behavior responses.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
DBT, on the other hand, is a specific type of CBT that is now used for conditions involving intense emotional regulation issues. DBT emphasizes accepting and validating the client's emotions while also encouraging change. It focuses on four key skill areas: mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. DBT is particularly beneficial for those who experience severe emotional swings, self-destructive behaviors, or have difficulty managing their emotions in relationships. I have found that every client I see, and myself personally, can/have benefit from DBT.
Key Differences
While CBT is broader and focuses on changing thought and behavior patterns, DBT is more specialized, combining acceptance and change strategies to help people with intense emotional responses. DBT sessions often include both individual therapy and skills training in a group setting, which distinguishes it from the typical CBT format. With or without a group, both therapies can be extremely effective and helpful!
If you have any further questions or would like more information on either therapy, feel free to reach out."
Like the email said, if you or someone you know is struggling, please don't hesitate to fill out a contact form at www.thekingsforge.net
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