Dialectical Behavior Therapy: The Four Core Modules
Whether you're new to DBT or looking to gain a deeper understanding of its principles, today’s blog post will introduce each module and give you some examples of how they can help. My hope is this information further illustrates how DBT can support you emotional and mental health, as well as set you on the path toward a meaningful, fulfilling “life worth living.”
Introduction to DBT: What is Dialectical Behavior Therapy?
The first installment in a series of blog posts aiming to demystify and explain DBT and why it is such a valuable and effective therapy!
Embracing Change
Change is constant and inevitable, yet we find ourselves fighting it and making ourselves miserable in the process. How can we learn to better ride the waves of change?
Both/And: The Power of a Dialectic
A dialectic is the idea that two opposites can both be true at the same time. It does away with false, black-or-white dichotomies and moves us into shades of grey. So even though two things feel as though they are in conflict, a dialectical stance creates room for them both and recognizes they both are valid. This stance opens us to more possibilities and can help us get unstuck in our own thinking.
Radical Acceptance: Part 2
Last week, I introduced the concept of Radical Acceptance and why it can be a useful practice. This week let’s talk about how to practice it, as well as some myths about radical acceptance that may make it hard for us to fully embrace it.
Radical Acceptance: Part 1
When faced with a painful situation, we can do one of four things:
We can attempt to solve the problem, or change the situation.
Uh-oh - that didn’t work? Well, our second option is to stay miserable. Maybe we even become bitter or resentful because we can’t stop thinking about how unfair this situation is! Maybe if I think about how crappy it is, it will magically change…
(Side note: Sometimes we need to sit in this place for a little while. It’s okay. But it usually isn’t very helpful to stay here too long!)
The third option is to change your perception of the situation. Maybe instead of focusing on how rude it was for that driver to cut you off, instead be grateful that you did not get in an accident and that you have quick reflexes!
Lastly, we can choose to radically accept the situation. Let’s talk more about this option.