Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) in Pasadena
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The goal of DBT is to help individuals manage difficult situations in their life more effectively. While there are many types of therapy out there, few have been as successful at reducing suicide rates and improving quality of life as Dialectical Behavior Therapy. Read on to learn about the benefits and drawbacks of this treatment method so you can decide if it’s right for you.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a type of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, which means it focuses on changing patterns and thoughts while taking into account how they affect actions and emotions. In addition, it is utilized to help people with mental health issues live happier and healthier lives. Dialectical Behavior Therapy was developed in the late 1980s by Dr. Marsha Linehan, who built the therapy around the following criterion:
Our residential setting provides round-the-clock support, medical detox when needed, and structured days designed to build stability and healthy routines.
Clients heal in a fully supervised space, free from outside triggers and distractions, ensuring the focus stays on recovery and long-term personal growth.
Unlike outpatient care, our program offers full residential treatment—combining medical support, therapy, and daily structure for lasting results.
The techniques used in DBT were originally designed to reduce suicidal thoughts and behaviors in individuals who struggle with intense emotions. Today the therapy is used with great success in:
Dialectical Behavior Therapy follows a six-point structure, and trained therapists use it to promote new thinking methods and develop behavioral skills among clients. They include:
Dialectical Behavior Therapy has been shown to effectively reduce negative behaviors in a wide range of populations. For example, in 2010, suicidal individuals who received DBT were half as likely to attempt suicide compared to those receiving treatment as usual.
DBT has also been shown to be effective for people with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), who are highly likely to attempt suicide. For example, in one study of adolescents with BPD or subthreshold BPD symptoms, those receiving Dialectical Behavior Therapy were less likely than usual care participants to make suicide attempts and required less hospitalization.
There are three forms of DBT, all of which involve talk therapy with a trained specialist.
A typical Dialectical Behavior Therapy session is typically 50 minutes long and meets once or twice a week. The first 20-30% of the time, clients meet with their therapist to discuss whatever issues they want to be addressed. Topics like anger management, healthy relationships and other coping skills are quite common.
Clients then meet with their group therapist for the last 20-30% of each DBT session to discuss problems they’re experiencing due to coping with intense emotions. Methods like role-playing, storytelling, and practicing new techniques provide tools that help clients manage these difficulties more effectively in daily life.
The best way to determine which type of therapy treatment is best for you is to talk with a mental health professional – a therapist, psychiatrist or psychologist. They will consider your symptoms, treatment history, and the goals you outline for what you want out of therapy and recommend the best next steps.
Annandale Behavioral Health offers Dialectical Behavior Therapy in Pasadena, California. If you or a loved one believes you might benefit from DBT therapy in Pasadena, CA, you can talk with our mental health professionals who are trained in the approach. In addition, our treatment center has several highly trained medical professionals that can help you today, so please feel free to contact us anytime at 855-778-8668. We’ll be glad to answer any questions you have or help you with your needs.
You deserve care that respects your privacy and supports your healing. We’re here to guide you every step of the way!
Annandale Behavioral Health offers a highly experienced and trained treatment team to help you or your loved one safely detox from substances and design a customized aftercare plan to maintain sobriety. Our comprehensive treatment team includes Case Managers, Individual Therapists, RNs, LVNs, Psychiatrists, and more.
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Annandale Behavioral Health is located in a contemporary farmhouse situated on the sprawling grounds in one of Pasadena’s most beloved neighborhoods. This intimate recovery setting has just six beds, allowing for a higher level of care within a safe, supportive treatment environment. The park-like setting features beautiful gardens and an outdoor fireplace that enhances the serene atmosphere.
