DBT: Dialectical Behavior Therapy

Q. What is dialectical behavior therapy?

A. DBT is a form of cognitive behavioral therapy that was originally developed by Marsha M. Linehan, Ph.D. to treat individuals who exhibited chronic suicidal behaviors. However, this approach has since been modified and proven to be an effective form of treatment for more diverse populations. It incorporates a cognitive skills based approach with the teaching of ‘Mindfulness Meditation’. It is particularly appropriate for individuals who experience highly unpleasant mood states, and need concrete tools with which to learn to regulate their emotional reactions and behaviors. Dr. Parks teaches DBT skills to those of her clients that she feels would benefit from this approach. When a client is unable to successfully incorporate these tools into their daily life with individual therapy alone, Dr. Parks refers patients to a DBT skills training group. She consults regularly with the group leader in order to ensure continuity of care.

Q. What kind of training has Dr. Parks had in this area?

A. Dr. Parks has attended a number of professional training workshops in this area and regularly participates in a monthly DBT training group supervised by Meggan Moorehead, Ed.D. who was responsible for bringing DBT to the Triangle in the early 1990s.

Q. Where can I learn more about DBT?

A. Behavioral Tech, LLC, an on-line resource, has material on the scope and importance of using DBT as a therapeutic tool for coping with mood swings and chronic suicidal behavior. It's website is at BehavioralTech. Dialectical Behavior Therapy in Clinical Practice by Linda A. Dimeff and Kelly Koerner is also an excellent source of information. See Amazon.com.