Comprehensive DBT vs. DBT-Informed Treatment: Understanding the Differences

There's often confusion between comprehensive DBT and DBT-informed approaches. This blog post aims to clarify the differences and explore the components of comprehensive DBT.

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, on the other hand, incorporates some aspects of DBT into other therapeutic approaches. It might use DBT skills or concepts but doesn't include all four components of comprehensive DBT.

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.

While DBT-informed treatments can be beneficial, comprehensive DBT offers a more intensive, structured approach that may be necessary for individuals with complex or severe target behaviors (such as suicidality and self-harm). When looking for a DBT Program, it is important to find out which model the therapist follows. If you need Comprehensive DBT, make sure you are getting that!