Online dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) with Talkspace

Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is a type of therapy that’s used to help identify and rethink negative emotional and thought patterns by using mindfulness and emotional regulation. In-person and online DBT treatment rely on the psychosocial aspects of talk therapy to promote acceptance and positive change. Through skills training, DBT therapy is designed to help those dealing with severe emotions, such as those who live with borderline personality disorder (BPD), bipolar disorder, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

DBT teaches four essential skills to individuals seeking to develop better mental health and manage strong emotions: mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. These skills provide individuals with strategies to be mindful in the moment, better tolerate distressing experiences to avoid harmful behaviors, effectively manage and regulate emotions, and learn how to effectively communicate with others.

Dialectical behavior therapy and its techniques, such as mindfulness and identifying emotional patterns, can be done in online DBT therapy sessions from the comfort of your home through Talkspace live video or audio sessions and text therapy. In fact, online therapy is as effective as in-person therapy, and it’s oftentimes a more convenient and affordable way to receive mental health support.

CBT focuses on the thought processes behind behavior and emotions, while DBT uses CBT techniques to develop new, healthier coping skills. CBT is based on changing problematic thoughts, feelings and behaviors, while DBT emphasizes mindfulness and balance. While both can be incredibly effective, learn more about DBT vs. CBT to see what’s right for you.

There are two primary types of DBT: individual treatment and skills group. Individual therapy consists of one-on-one sessions with a licensed therapist and helps ensure that specific needs are being met over a set period of time. A therapist will help a patient stay motivated, apply DBT skills to situations happening in their daily life, and address issues that arise over the course of treatment. Skills group treatment participants learn and practice skills alongside others who face similar challenges. DBT groups are led by a trained DBT therapist who teaches skills, leads exercises, and assigns homework such as practicing mindfulness. Regardless of whether treatment is done one-on-one or in a DBT group, DBT therapy follows a consistent approach. Therapists focus first on the most self-destructive behaviors while gradually addressing quality-of-life skills such as emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness.

The 24 hour rule in DBT therapy is a strategy used to help an individual reduce reactivity to an emotional trigger. This involves allowing 24 hours to pass before responding to the situation or other person in order to take a step back, gain perspective, and decide how best to approach the situation.

Research shows this form of therapy can successfully treat people experiencing depression, bulimia, binge-eating, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder. The American Psychiatric Association endorses DBT as an effective treatment method, with those who seek treatment experiencing the following improvements: less anger, improved social functioning, less frequent and less severe suicidal behavior, and shorter hospitalizations.

The effects of DBT will vary depending on the individual and their mental health condition, but it typically takes 6 to 12 months of active participation in order to see significant progress and improved symptoms. A strong commitment to individual therapy sessions and/or group therapy is required to successfully see the effectiveness of DBT.

If your insurance plan covers behavior therapy, it will likely cover dialectical behavior therapy at Talkspace. More and more insurance plans are covering therapy or counseling, so check with your insurance company to confirm your coverage details for online dialectical behavior therapy. Even if you don’t have a health insurance plan that covers mental health services, Talkspace is still more affordable than most co-pays for in-person therapy. Learn more about insurance coverage for dialectical behavior therapy at Talkspace.

Yes, Talkspace providers offer dialectical behavior therapy. Different therapists will have a variety of specializations in therapy approaches. Find a therapist at Talkspace that offers dialectical behavior therapy through the matching process or looking through our therapist directory.

DBT therapy is designed for people who struggle with intense emotions, impulsive behaviors, relationship challenges, or difficulty coping with stress. It’s commonly used to support individuals experiencing conditions such as borderline personality disorder, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and self-harming behaviors.

During a DBT therapy session, you'll work with a therapist to identify challenges, build coping skills, and practice techniques for emotional regulation, mindfulness, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness. Online DBT therapy sessions are tailored to your goals and real-life experiences.

Research suggests that online DBT therapy can be just as effective as in-person therapy for many people. Working with licensed DBT therapists online provides access to the same evidence-based skills and support, with the added convenience of receiving care from home.