CBT vs DBT: What’s the Difference?
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) are both forms of psychotherapy. During these sessions, people talk to a mental health professional about their issues and are taught skills to help them cope.
So What's the Difference?
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on talking about your problems to help you view your thoughts differently. CBT teaches you strategies so that you are in control of your thoughts, rather than your thoughts controlling you. The primary focus is on learning ways to change negative thoughts and behaviours.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is based on “acting through opposing forces” and teaches 2 contrasting strategies (acceptance and change). The primary focus of DBT is to accept your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours while also learning skills to change them. Dialectical Behavioural Therapy mirrors CBT, but emphasizes the emotional and social aspects of living more.
How Do I Know Which One is Right for Me?
This is a tough one because there is no direct answer. The best way to figure out if DBT and/or CBT is right for you is to talk with a mental health professional, such as a counsellor. They will factor in any diagnoses, symptoms, treatment history, and your goals to recommend if DBT, CBT, or some other intervention is right for you.
Whatever route you go, remember to give it a few weeks before you decide if therapy isn’t right for you. Remember that your counsellor isn’t going to do the work for you – you have to put in the work to get the results of healthier thinking, behaviours, and living.
Contact us today or book a Free Meet & Greet online to see if counselling is right for you.
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About the Author - Julie Watts
Julie Watts is a Registered Social Worker obtaining her Master's in Social Work with Wilfrid Laurier University. Julie is also a graduate of the University of Toronto Foundations in Mindfulness Meditation program and most recently completed the Science of Happiness at Berkeley University. She has completed various yoga training courses.
Julie has over 20 years of experience in the social services sector. Her scope of work has included child welfare, domestic violence, youth and adult justice, community health and anti-poverty work.
As a private practitioner, Julie uses various modalities including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Positive Psychology, Attachment, Trauma-Informed practice and Solution-Focused narrative therapy; Julie uses a person-centred approach to facilitate healing and growth.
Julie has found that almost every person she has supported has wanted to feel better in the their life. Julie is excited to join Absolute Health & Wellness and help YOU move from languishing to flourishing!
To book in please call us at (519) 442-2206 or click here.