DBT for Depression

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) has been shown to be highly effective in treating depression. 

Learn more about Depression

According to Yale medicine: https://www.yalemedicine.org/conditions/dialectical-behavior-therapy-dbt# Research has shown significant improvements in patients who undergo DBT, including reduced self-harm behaviors, decreased suicidal ideation and behavior, lower hospitalization rates, and improved social functioning. The outlook and prognosis can vary depending on the individual and the severity of their condition.

HOW DBT WORKS FOR DEPRESSION: 

  • Individuals are taught how to identify, understand, and manage their emotions - especially distressing ones. Learning how to control their emotional intensity allows clients to feel more hope and control in their lives, which directly combats depression.

  • DBT helps individuals identify, challenge, and change unhelpful or negative thoughts to more balanced dialectical thoughts. This process is referred to as Cognitive Restructuring. Individuals use DBT skills to shift distorted thinking patterns and get out of negative thought loops.

  • DBT provides practical skills for coping with difficult situations. Clients learn mindfulness, distress tolerance, and assertiveness skills that allows them to “go opposite” to negative patterns of action – including avoidance and self-harming behaviors.

  • Relationships can be challenging for individuals with depression. DBT clients learn how to identify positive relationships, build communication skills and work towards creating a strong inner circle of supportive friends.

  • DBT clients learn to identify their values and goals and work towards work and life changes that are in alignment with their hopes and dreams.

If you think DBT could be a good fit for you or a loved one, call our intake line at 425-615-0605 for more information about how our program can help you! Our practice is based out of Bellevue, WA and through both in-person and virtual services we work with people in all around the Seattle area and throughout Washington State.