Dialectical Behavioral Therapy

Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) is designed to help individuals manage intense emotions, improve relationships, and develop healthier coping skills. Great Care Health Services serves adults in Nashville and across Tennessee with DBT delivered through individual and group therapy formats. Treatment focuses on mindfulness, emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and communication skills. Contact Great Care Health Services today if you’re an adult struggling with emotional balance or impulsive behaviors. Request or book online to learn if DBT is the right fit for you.

What is dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT)?

DBT is a structured, evidence-based psychotherapy that helps people manage intense emotions, improve relationships, and reduce harmful behaviors. It combines acceptance skills with practical tools for change, helping patients find balance during emotional challenges.

DBT is often helpful for people who experience strong emotional reactions, mood swings, impulsive behaviors, or difficulty handling stress. It can support individuals living with anxiety, depression, trauma-related concerns, or challenges with emotional regulation. DBT is also useful for people who feel overwhelmed by daily stress or interpersonal conflicts.

How does DBT work?

DBT focuses on teaching specific skills that patients can use in real-life situations. It helps individuals become more aware of their thoughts and emotions, understand triggers, and respond in healthier ways. 

DBT is goal-oriented and encourages steady progress through practice and support. Treatment may include individual therapy, group therapy, or a combination of both. Care plans are personalized to meet each patient’s emotional needs, goals, and life circumstances.

What skills are taught in DBT?

DBT focuses on four core skill areas:

Mindfulness 

Mindfulness helps patients stay present and aware without judgment. 

Distress tolerance

Improving distress tolerance offers ways to cope during emotional crises without making situations worse. 

Emotion regulation

Emotion regulation skills support better control over intense feelings. 

Interpersonal effectiveness

Interpersonal effectiveness focuses on healthy communication, boundaries, and relationships.

What benefits do group and individual DBT therapy offer?

Group therapy plays a key role in DBT. In group sessions, patients learn and practice skills alongside others facing similar challenges. The setting provides structure, encouragement, and shared understanding. A Great Care Health Services trained professional leads groups, guiding discussions and skill-building activities.

Individual therapy allows patients to apply DBT skills to their personal experiences. One-on-one sessions focus on problem-solving, tracking progress, and addressing specific emotional or behavioral concerns. The personalized support helps reinforce skills learned in group therapy.

Can DBT be combined with other treatments?

DBT often works best as part of a comprehensive care plan. Great Care Health Services may combine it with medication management or other forms of psychotherapy to support overall mental health. Providers collaborate closely to ensure treatment is coordinated and effective.

DBT is available via in-person visits and secure telehealth services. Telehealth makes it easier for patients to stay consistent with therapy while maintaining daily responsibilities.

Call Great Care Health Services today to learn more about DBT or book an appointment online.