Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), developed by Dr. Marsha Linehan, is widely used to treat various personality disorders such as borderline personality disorder; eating disorders; and addictions. It is considered by many psychologists to be the best practice in treatment of borderline personality disorder. DBT is comprised of skills to help an individual achieve a more satisfying life. The skills are learned and practiced while receiving support in a positive and encouraging environment.
What are Dialectics?
A dialectic is the synthesis, or bringing together of, two opposing ideas, emotions, thoughts, or desires. The opposite of a dialectic is a dichotomy (i.e. hot and cold, live or die, hate and love, black and white). In this manner, depression and anxiety are seen as the emotional result of struggling with certain dichotomous desires. One example of a dichotomous or conflicting desire is wanting to be social and have friends, but feeling insecure and fearful at the same time. The behavioral result is that this individual may sometimes withdrawal and isolate, or feel confused as to which way to behave. One my feel confused or lost, pulled in two directions, or "frozen." Dialectical Behavioral Therapy resolves the tension, anxiety, conflict, and confusion which results from wanting two conflicting or opposing things at the same time.