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FHE Health offers DBT therapy in Deerfield Beach through a combination of structured group work and one-on-one therapy. This approach helps patients manage intense emotions, build healthier relationships and practice DBT skills within individualized mental health and dual diagnosis treatment.
What Is DBT?
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is a mindfulness-based cognitive-behavioral therapy that emphasizes the psychosocial aspects of treatment. It focuses on social factors and individual thoughts and behaviors. Some experts believe that certain people are predisposed to experiencing more intense emotional reactions to life situations.
DBT focuses on practical skills to help them manage their emotions more effectively and to identify negative self-talk and self-defeating behaviors. Together, the patient and therapist work as a team to identify and change these mental, emotional and behavioral patterns via healthy coping skills.
Originally developed by Dr. Marsha Linehan in the 1980s, DBT was designed to help people with chronic suicidal thoughts, self-harm behaviors, and borderline personality disorder by combining change-focused strategies with acceptance and mindfulness. FHE Health uses DBT for borderline personality disorder and other mental health conditions as a practical, skills-based therapy that helps patients apply these techniques in real treatment settings, not just talk about them.
How DBT is Different from CBT
While DBT and CBT are closely related, they are not the same approach. CBT centers on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors. DBT includes that work while also teaching mindfulness, acceptance and distress tolerance skills. At FHE Health, this approach can be especially valuable for people struggling with overwhelming emotions, impulsive behavior, difficult relationships or co-occurring disorders.
Who Is DBT For?
DBT was originally designed for individuals struggling with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), especially those with chronic self-harm or suicidal behaviors. Dialectical behavior therapy is now widely used to support people experiencing intense emotional turmoil, including those with depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, eating disorders and substance use issues.
DBT helps teach practical skills like distress tolerance, mindfulness, emotional regulation and effective communication that help manage overwhelming feelings and strengthen relationships. At FHE Health, we incorporate dialectical behavior therapy in our Florida programs. Examples of DBT include one-on-one sessions and group skills classes carefully formulated to cultivate emotional balance, coping skills and healthier relationships.
The Four DBT Skill Modules
DBT is effective at treating certain mental health symptoms. More specifically, difficulties in managing emotions, interpersonal and relationship challenges and maladaptive coping behaviors like disordered eating and suicidal thoughts. At FHE, our consultation team of DBT therapists will determine whether you could benefit from this type of therapy. It aims to increase skills and aptitude in the following areas or “modules” (in DBT vocabulary):
Mindfulness
Mindfulness is the act of being present with all one’s senses to what’s happening in the here and now. Mindfulness-based exercises teach you to nonjudgmentally observe and attend to your thoughts, emotions and behaviors in the moment, so that, over time, you can increase self-awareness and improve decision-making.
Distress tolerance
This term refers to one’s capacity to weather a crisis without making it worse through self-harm or other negative behaviors. The premise is that while you may not be able to control many of the stressful things that happen to you, you can learn to manage your response to these things in healthier ways using the various techniques of this module.
Emotion regulation
The skills and education in this area are intended to help you manage your emotional triggers in healthier ways through positive self-talk, constructive behaviors and other coping mechanisms.
Interpersonal effectiveness
In this module, patients learn how to express their needs appropriately, set healthy boundaries and manage conflict, among other relational skills. These four areas of focus in DBT might also be considered its core benefits. With practice, they can improve the quality of life for those who struggle with managing emotions, maintaining relationships, and/or thoughts of suicide or self-harm.
Group Therapy Sessions in DBT
Group therapy plays a very important role in DBT, but it isn’t what many people have in mind when they think of psychotherapy. Unlike talk therapy, for example, DBT sessions are highly structured to review and reinforce the DBT tools and techniques introduced in group therapy. Group therapy functions much like a small, supportive class where patients get to learn about the four modules and related tools and techniques.
They’re given a homework assignment for the week that encourages them to apply one of these tools or techniques to a real-life situation and then reflect on their experience. Our DBT treatment center in South Florida integrates group sessions into the full treatment experience, so patients learn skills beyond class. They also get ongoing support from their care team as they apply them throughout treatment.
Individual DBT Sessions at FHE
While DBT often centers on group therapy, individual sessions are also an important part of treatment at FHE Health. During these private sessions, patients meet directly with a therapist to address the emotions, behaviors and relationship struggles connected to their treatment needs. By focusing on each patient’s real-world challenges, these sessions make it easier to apply the skills learned in group in a personal, practical way outside of treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does DBT treatment usually last?
A standard DBT program typically runs for about 6–12 months. Many people notice improvements in emotional control within a few months, but completing the full program gives the best chance for lasting change.
What skills do you learn in DBT?
DBT focuses on four evidence-based skill areas: mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation and interpersonal effectiveness. At FHE, these are taught through group classes, individual coaching and in-the-moment support so clients can apply the skills in daily life.
Can DBT be done online?
Yes. Many therapists and treatment centers now offer DBT virtually, and research shows it can be as effective as in-person therapy when delivered consistently.
Is DBT only for people in crisis?
Not at all. While it was originally designed for high-risk situations, DBT is now used to help people at many stages of recovery. At FHE, we often tailor DBT for clients who want better coping skills, improved relationships or stronger emotional balance.
Start Building Skills for Lasting Change
DBT has been shown to reduce harmful behaviors and promote healthier coping strategies. By learning key skills in mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional regulation and interpersonal effectiveness, many people can manage even complex mental health challenges. At FHE Health, our dedicated DBT track offers the structure and support needed to put these skills into practice. Contact us today to learn more and find out if our program is the right fit for you.
