What Are The Differences Between CBT and DBT?
So, you’re thinking about attending therapy.
First of all, congratulations. You should be extremely proud of yourself for deciding to make this step to improve your overall mental health and wellness.
If you’re not familiar with the world of therapy, it can seem a bit overwhelming. Similar to attending a doctor’s office, there may be certain words or acronyms that you’re not as familiar with. The world of therapy is filled with different acronyms that describe different techniques, diagnoses, and treatment options.
While you’re not expected to know all of them, it’s important to dive into the basics so that you’re better equipped to make decisions for your journey towards healing.
Before you dive into therapy, let’s learn more about the differences between two common therapy treatment options, CBT and DBT.
What is CBT?
In the therapy world, different acronyms describe different disorders and treatment types. CBT is one the most commonly used acronyms that is used to describe one of the many different treatment options. CBT stands for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. This form of treatment is used to help individuals change and replace any negative or unhealthy ways of thinking, feeling, and behaving with more positive actions. CBT is one of the most common forms of talk therapy within the therapy world.
What is DBT?
DBT is another acronym that is used to describe another common form of talk therapy: Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. This approach to therapy is actually based on the CBT approach, but it’s aimed to help individuals who feel emotions on a deeper level.
The Differences
While CBT and DBT share a lot of similarities and even though DBT is based on the CBT approach, they are two completely different options. So, how should you choose which treatment option best suits you? Let’s go over some of the main differences between CBT and DBT.
Treatment Method
While DBT is based on CBT, the two approaches do have completely different treatment methods. CBT focuses mainly on how a person thinks, feels, and behaves and how these actions can affect one another. DBT, on the other hand, focuses on this as well, but dives deeper into helping to regulate emotions, practice mindfulness, and help an individual learn how to accept negative experiences.
The Philosophies
Another main difference between CBT and DBT is the philosophy. The main goal of CBT is for individuals to see things more clearly using rational and reasoning. CBT is most closely associated with The Socratic Method, which relies on questioning and critical thinking.
Instead of just talking through any issues at hand, DBT’s approach is based on incorporating mindfulness techniques to try to force a change. The philosophies most closely related to DBT are Buddhism and Zen.
Disorders Treated
There are many different therapy approaches within the therapy world. Unfortunately, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution for all of the various mental health disorders.
CBT effectively treats disorders like anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorders, phobias, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and sleeping problems.
DBT has been proven to be the more effective approach when it’s more necessary to implement change in thoughts, actions, and behaviors instead of just talking through the problems at hand. This type of approach has been effective in treating disorders like borderline personality disorder, eating disorders, sexual trauma, and self-harm, just to name a few.
Next Steps
Interested in learning more about CBT and/or DBT? Have you already decided which approach you think is best suited for you and your needs? Or are you looking for more clarification? We are here to help. Reach out to us today to set up an initial consultation to learn more about CBT or DBT.
