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What does "dialectical" mean?
The term "dialectical" means a synthesis or integration of opposites. In DBT we aim to teach both/and thinking, which proposes that two opposing forces can occur simultaneously. The primary dialectic within DBT is that of acceptance and change. For example, DBT therapists accept clients as they are while also acknowledging that they need to change in order to reach their goals.
Is there research to support DBT Treatment?
Yes! There is over 10 years of research on DBT including Efficacy Trials, Effectiveness Trials, Dissemination research, and Systematic reviews. For more details about these types of research as well as archives visit the Behavioral Tech Institute.
What does it mean to be a DBT-Linehan Board of Certification™ Certified DBT Program?
A DBT-LBC Certified Program has been independently evaluated by experts in the field. Programs undergo an extensive review to ensure they are upholding DBT principles as they were designed and supported by research. This means a DBT-LBC Certified Program has been independently evaluated and confirmed all the elements are present to provide adherent, comprehensive DBT. This matters most for patients, families, and consumers because it increases the chances they are getting adherent, research-supported DBT treatment. The hope is that this distinction is a factor for patients and families when selecting a provider, for referrals guiding patients and families in selecting treatment, and for increasing reimbursement rates from third-party payers. For more information visit the DBT-LBC website.
Can I still see my current therapist?
No, you will be asked to vacation from your current therapist.
Why do I need to vacation from my current therapist?
First and foremost, adherence matters. There is no research that offers information on how outside providers help or hinder the outcome of treatment, therefore it is highly discouraged. Additionally, multiple providers can be overwhelming, generate miscommunication, and inhibit commitment to one treatment plan.
How is it decided which therapist I will work with individually?
Patients are assigned to therapists based on scheduling availability, case load, balance of patients in different stages of treatment, severity/intensity of patient, and therapist strengths. All our individual therapists are foundationally trained in DBT and some have additional training that makes them a better fit for specialized populations (age groups, couples, trauma, etc.) There is research to support that it is treatment adherence to the evidence based DBT model not the “fit” of the therapist that promotes change and progress in treatment.
Do I have to attend a skills group?
Yes. You cannot participate in individual therapy without attending skills training. The only exception to this is DBT informed couples therapy.
What is skills group Like?
DBT skills groups are psycho-educational in nature. Group begins with a mindfulness activity, followed by homework review (yes, there is a brief homework assignment each week), and concluded with the skills lesson. DBT skills group is not a process group. Participants do not share openly about problematic behaviors in an effort to minimize emotionally prompting others.
What is scheduling like for DBT?
Most skills groups run on Sundays (2 hours weekly). Individual sessions (1 hour weekly) are scheduled based on availability.
How are parents involved in DBT with teens?
When the patient is a teen parents participate in the skills group right along with them! In many instances parents also participate in family therapy or parent coaching without the patient. DBT believes it is essential for the parents to participate for optimal change.
Will I need anything specific to participate in DBT?
Yes! You will need a DBT Skills Training Handout and Worksheets book.
Does ROCDBT offer telehealth appointments?
No. While there is some research to support that DBT is effective via telehealth, it is important to us at ROCDBT to build in-person connections with our patients and help with in vivo exposure to interpersonal effectiveness and behavioral activation skills.
Do I need to complete the full 12 months of programming/ 6 months for teens?
The program at ROCDBT is outpatient, therefore you are able to discontinue treatment at any time. Once a module is started, skills group tuition is billed regardless of attendance, so you may accrue
fees if you drop out during a module. Having said that, the 52 weeks/ 24 weeks for teens is an evidence based "dosage" of time. This means that in order to get the most out of treatment it is the clinical recommendation to commit to the program in its entirety.
*Please keep in mind that DBT is hard work! It is not uncommon for patients to have the urge to avoid or drop out of treatment, so much so that it is actually worked into the treatment model. We ask that you please try to trust the process and the outcome research of the model.
What happens after the 52 weeks/ 24 weeks for teens of skills training? Do I need to find a new therapist?
Upon completion of the program you and your therapist will discuss a continued treatment plan/ contract. Oftentimes patients want to continue with DBT individual therapy to continue to work on problem behaviors and move into Stage 2, 3, and 4 of treatment. This is welcomed! Patients are also welcome to return to their pre-DBT provider.
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