What is DBT?
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based form of psychotherapy that helps people develop practical skills to manage intense emotions, improve relationships, and cope more effectively with life’s challenges.
DBT is commonly used to help people experiencing emotional dysregulation, anxiety, depression, self-destructive behaviours, relationship difficulties, and traits associated with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD).
The word “dialectical” refers to balancing two seemingly opposite ideas: acceptance and change. DBT helps people learn to accept themselves and their experiences as they are, while also working towards meaningful and positive change.
How Does DBT Work?
DBT combines elements of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), mindfulness practices, and acceptance-based approaches.
The therapy focuses on helping individuals understand the connection between their thoughts, emotions, behaviours, and relationships. Through structured skill development and guided reflection, people learn practical strategies to navigate difficult situations more effectively.
A core principle of DBT is that many emotional difficulties arise not because someone is weak or flawed, but because they may not yet have had the opportunity to learn the skills needed to manage overwhelming emotions and interpersonal challenges.
DBT provides those skills in a supportive, non-judgemental environment.
What Can DBT Help With?
DBT has been shown to be effective for a variety of mental health concerns and life challenges, including:
While DBT was originally developed for Borderline Personality Disorder, research now suggests that its skills-based approach can benefit many people who struggle with managing emotions or navigating complex relationships.
What Happens During DBT Sessions?
DBT sessions are collaborative and practical.
You and your therapist will work together to identify challenges, set goals, and develop skills that can be applied in everyday life. Sessions often involve exploring situations that have occurred during the week, identifying emotional and behavioural patterns, and practising new coping strategies.
The goal is not perfection, but developing greater flexibility and confidence in managing life’s challenges.
BT vs CBT: What's the Difference?
DBT evolved from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and shares many similarities with CBT.
Both therapies examine the relationship between thoughts, emotions, and behaviours, and both are supported by extensive psychological research.
However, DBT places a greater emphasis on emotional regulation, acceptance, mindfulness, and interpersonal relationships. While CBT often focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful thinking patterns, DBT also helps people learn how to tolerate distress and navigate intense emotions without becoming overwhelmed.
For many people, these approaches complement one another, and psychologists may integrate techniques from both therapies depending on individual needs.
You can learn more about Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) here.
| Area | CBT | DBT |
|---|---|---|
| Core focus | Identifying and changing unhelpful thinking patterns | Emotional regulation, acceptance and change |
| Mindfulness | Limited | Central to the approach |
| Distress tolerance | Not a primary focus | Core skill taught throughout |
| Relationship skills | Addressed indirectly | Interpersonal effectiveness is a dedicated module |
| Originally developed for | Anxiety and depression | Borderline Personality Disorder — now used much more broadly |
| Best suited for | Unhelpful thought patterns, low mood | Intense emotions, self-destructive behaviours, relationship difficulties |
Why Choose DBT?
Many people seek therapy because they feel trapped in recurring emotional patterns that affect their wellbeing, relationships, or ability to cope with everyday life.
DBT offers a practical framework for understanding these patterns and developing new ways of responding.
Some of the benefits people commonly report include:
Perhaps most importantly, DBT helps people move away from self-criticism and towards a more compassionate and balanced understanding of themselves.
Whether you are struggling with overwhelming emotions, relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, or simply want to develop healthier coping strategies, our team can help you build practical skills that support long-term wellbeing.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q1: What is Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)?
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based form of psychotherapy that helps people develop practical skills to manage intense emotions, improve relationships, and cope more effectively with life’s challenges. DBT combines elements of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and acceptance-based approaches.
Q2: What conditions can DBT help with?
DBT has been shown to be effective for a wide range of mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), emotional dysregulation, trauma, eating disorders, self-harming behaviours, and relationship difficulties. While DBT was originally developed for BPD, its skills-based approach benefits many people who struggle with overwhelming emotions.
Q3: How is DBT different from CBT?
Both DBT and CBT examine the links between thoughts, emotions, and behaviour. DBT goes further by placing greater emphasis on emotional regulation, mindfulness, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness. DBT also teaches people how to accept themselves whilst working towards positive change — something CBT alone doesn’t focus on as heavily.
Q4: How long does DBT therapy take?
DBT is typically delivered over six to twelve months, though this varies depending on individual needs and goals. Your psychologist will discuss a recommended timeframe with you during your initial consultation.
Q5: Is DBT available via telehealth in Australia?
Yes — all DBT sessions at Positive Mindworks are available online via telehealth, making therapy accessible across Australia and New Zealand from the comfort of your own home.
Q6: Do I need a referral for DBT therapy?
You do not need a referral to book directly with Positive Mindworks. However, if you have a Mental Health Treatment Plan from your GP, you may be eligible for Medicare rebates on your sessions. Contact us to find out more
