Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)

Northland’s DBT Therapists have undergone intensive training and the DBT program is certified by the Minnesota Department of Human Services to provide DBT.

DBT is based on a treatment model developed by Marsha Linehan, Ph.D. The objective of this approach is to help the client resolve crises by learning to regulate emotions and reactions, learn self-acceptance, and learn how to positively influence their environment.

DBT Therapy Information

Clients will learn

To enhance their capability by increasing skillful behavior
To improve and maintain motivation to change and be engaged with treatment
To ensure generalization of change occurring through treatment
To enhance the motivation of therapists to deliver effective treatment
To restructure or change his or her environment such that it supports and maintains progress and advancement towards goals

The methods utilized in DBT include

Individual Therapy
Telephone consultation
Skills Training Group
Consultation Group

Clients Served

DBT is available to adults, adolescents and children who are struggling with behaviorally and emotionally challenged lifestyles that result in engaging in actions/behaviors that are damaging to an individual and their environment.

Individuals often come from backgrounds where their lives have been very invalidating and traumatic.

Program Costs

Northland is a provider for most insurance programs including Medical Assistance. Individuals without insurance coverage may qualify for a sliding fee based on income.

Therapy & Group

Individual Therapy

The focus of individual therapy provided during DBT is to assist in decreasing ineffective thoughts and behaviors and increase the utilization of skill learned through DBT Skills Training Group. Each therapy session you will go through a hierarchy: Life Interfering Behaviors; Therapy Interfering Behaviors; Quality of Life Interfering behaviors; and skills Utilization.

Skills Training Group

The focus in DBT skills training group are the following four modules:

Core Mindfulness
Interpersonal Effectiveness
Emotional Regulation
Distress Tolerance

Groups are offed through the Grand Rapids, Hibbing & international Falls office. Groups are currently offered in-person and via telehealth, please talk to your provider about group preference.