Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) was developed by Marsha Linehan, PhD, at the University of Washington. It is based on the theory that individuals have internal distress that result from disconnection and stress between the individual and his/her surroundings. It focuses on how emotional vulnerability and invalid environment lead to problem behaviors and distorted thoughts. Individuals may not be able to read cues or understand expectations in certain roles or situations

DBT treatment combines the technology of change and the principles of learning derived from behavioral science with concepts and techniques associated with acceptance and tolerance derived from both eastern Zen practices and western contemplative spirituality. DBT utilizes Zen concepts as a basis to encourage patients to be mindful in the current moment, see reality without delusion, and accept reality and themselves without judgment. These two very different traditions are synthesized and balanced dialectically.

DBT teaches two types of Skills:

Acceptance Skills that include Mindfulness and Distress Tolerance

Change Skills that include Emotional Regulation and Interpersonal Effectiveness

The effectiveness of DBT has been demonstrated in many controlled studies across different research groups. DBT is now being used in many settings as a viable therapy for the treatment of bipolar disorder, TPSD and other disorders.