Comprehensive DBT vs. DBT-Informed Treatment

There is often confusion between comprehensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and DBT-informed approaches, which this blog post aims to clarify.

What is Comprehensive DBT?

Comprehensive DBT is the full, standard DBT treatment developed by Dr. Marsha Linehan. It's an intensive, structured therapy that typically lasts for 6 months to about a year and includes four main components:

1. Individual therapy sessions (weekly)

2. Group skills training (weekly)

3. Phone coaching (free, as needed, to help you practice applying skills in the real world)

4. Therapist consultation team (to prevent therapist burnout and improve clinical skills). Therapists can not effectively practice DBT alone.

What is DBT-Informed Treatment?

DBT-informed treatment employs selected DBT skills within other therapeutic frameworks but lacks the comprehensive structure and training that characterize the standard DBT model.

Why is Comprehensive DBT more effective?

1. **Structure**: Comprehensive DBT follows a strict protocol, while DBT-informed treatments are more flexible.

2. **Intensity**: Comprehensive DBT is more intensive, often requiring multiple weekly commitments.

3. **Duration**: Comprehensive DBT typically lasts 6 months to a year, while DBT-informed treatments can vary in length.

4. **Components**: Comprehensive DBT includes all four components, whereas DBT-informed treatments may only use one or two.

5. **Training**: Therapists practicing comprehensive DBT undergo extensive training and supervision.

The effectiveness of comprehensive DBT can often be attributed to its rigorous structure, intensity, and extensive therapist training, making it particularly beneficial for individuals facing complex or severe challenges, such as suicidal ideation or self-harming behaviors.

When seeking a DBT program, knowing whether a comprehensive or informed approach is being offered is crucial to ensure that an individual's specific needs are adequately met.

At Turn The Mind, we offer a comprehensive DBT program that includes all of the components. We also offer DBT-informed treatment for those who do not need the full program.