Dialectical behavior therapy is an evidence-based psychotherapy that began with efforts to treat personality disorders and interpersonal conflicts. Evidence suggests that DBT can be useful in treating mood disorders and suicidal ideation, as well as for changing behavioral patterns such as self-harm and substance use.

More specifically, DBT focuses on skills training and includes mindfulness, emotion regulation, interpersonal effectiveness and distress tolerance. These four components are the key to successfully implementing this modality in one’s day-to-day life. Clients who participate in our intensive DBT treatment community often have symptoms that include impulsivity, self-injurious behaviors, or frequent suicide attempts. The symptoms of borderline personality disorder can result in mood problems, but the illness is not defined by changes in mood. These three key terms (the three mind states of DBT) are central to DBT—they are Emotion Mind, Reasonable Mind, and Wise Mind.