DBT vs. CBT: Choosing the Right Therapeutic Approach For Your Care

The journey toward healing is deeply personal, and at Citron Hennessey Therapy, we understand that the quest to find the right therapeutic approach can be challenging. 

For many, the key to unlocking improved mental health rests on deciding between dialectical behavior therapy vs cognitive behavioral therapy. To help you understand the difference and make the choice that matches your unique needs, we’ve put together this handy guide covering everything you need to know about DBT vs CBT. 

What is CBT?

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, commonly known as CBT, is a widely recognized form of psychotherapy centered around the core belief that our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors are interconnected. By identifying and altering negative thought patterns, CBT asserts that individuals can create positive changes in their emotional well-being and overall functioning to help them feel better.

What is DBT?

Dialectical Behavior Therapy, often shortened to DBT, is a specialized form of psychotherapy. While similar to CBT (and sometimes even classified as a type of CBT), the primary difference between DBT and CBT is that this form of therapy goes a step further by incorporating elements of mindfulness and acceptance. So, rather than simply tackling thought and behavior patterns, it aims to provide individuals with skills to help them better interact with others and the world around them. 

What’s the Difference between CBT and DBT?

To fully understand the differences between CBT vs DBT therapy, we must first outline the primary similarities:

• While many people may only have heard of CBT, DBT therapy is equally as evidence-based in its approach, meaning both have been extensively researched and proven effective. 
• Both approaches involve talking with a counselor in dedicated therapy sessions. However, in either case, it’s common for therapists to assign some self-development exercises in between sessions. 
• Both are structured and goal-oriented, emphasizing empowering individuals with practical skills to help manage their emotions and behaviors.

With the similarities firmly established, it’s time to explore the main differences between DBT vs. CBT. The variability lies in the specificity of the goals that individuals set, the modality of the approach used, what happens in therapy sessions, and the techniques used. Let’s take a more in-depth look to understand the distinction.

Goals

While both approaches are goal-oriented, the main difference when researching CBT therapy vs DBT therapy is that the former focuses on just two core goals:

1. Identifying negative thought patterns – Clients learn to recognize the irrational or negative thought patterns contributing to emotional distress and maladaptive behaviors.
2. Changing behaviors – Once patterns have been identified, clients develop healthier coping mechanisms to positively adapt their behaviors and emotional responses.

DBT therapy also involves setting goals. However, they are typically less firm or direct and focus on additional skill development, encompassing emotional and social aspects as well as behavioral development. The four core goals of DBT therapy are:

1. Interpersonal effectiveness – One of the critical differences between DBT therapy vs CBT is the strong emphasis on improving interpersonal relationships via boundary setting and more effective communication.
2. Emotional regulation – Clients develop strategies to regulate their emotional responses and prevent impulsive reactions by learning to understand, accept, and manage intense emotions. 
3. Distress tolerance – DBT teaches coping strategies to help people build resilience, endurance, and tolerate emotional pain without resorting to harmful behaviors.
4. Mindfulness – Individuals learn to be present, aware of their thoughts and emotions, and enhance their overall level of self-awareness and self-acceptance.

Approach

The standout difference between cognitive behavioral therapy vs. DBT is the emphasis on cognitive restructuring through reframing negative beliefs and thought processes. Conversely, while DBT does integrate cognitive-behavioral principles, it also recognizes that acceptance, validation, and non-judgmental self-awareness are essential for therapeutic progress. 

Sessions

If you’re considering DBT vs CBT therapy, you should be aware that the modality of your sessions may be more varied. CBT typically involves in-person, one-on-one therapy sessions with a therapist. Of course, DBT therapy also requires individual sessions to discuss personal issues, set goals, and receive guidance. However, DBT psychotherapy often takes a more multi-modal approach, which might also encompass:

• Group therapy
• Phone coaching
• Skills training classes

Your Therapist’s Role

In CBT, therapists focus on cognitive restructuring and behavioral change. However, in DBT, therapists typically take a more nurturing and validating role, emphasizing acceptance and support over pursuing behavioral change.  

Treatment Duration

The duration of either therapy can vary depending on the specific issues being addressed. However, as a general rule, choosing DBT vs CBT means a longer-term commitment due to its broader commitment to goal setting and skill development.

DBT vs CBT: Which is Right for You?

CBT therapy has proven effective in managing various aspects of mental health, including depression, anxiety disorders, alcohol and drug addiction, marital problems, eating disorders, and more. Conversely, DBT is typically better suited to individuals who feel emotions very intensely. Designed to help people understand and accept complicated feelings, it can be helpful for those battling self-harm and suicidal thoughts and individuals with borderline personality disorders. 

However, it’s essential to note that the choice between DBT vs. CBT should be made with care, considering your individual needs and the nature of your mental health challenges. A proper diagnosis is the first step in this journey, as the decision between the two approaches should not be made without the help of an accredited professional. 

Find a Therapist with Citron Hennessey Therapy

Finding a therapist who understands the nuances of your life and how your day-to-day routine affects your mental health is paramount. 

At Citron Hennessey Therapy, our compassionate, fully qualified, and accredited health professionals specialize in customizing suitable programs that fit your needs, preferences, and availability. Whatever type of therapy you’re interested in, we’ll work hard to find you the perfect fit, and you can speak to us at any time regarding the progress of your care.

Start your journey to improved mental health today by learning more about our team and filling in a short online questionnaire to find the right therapist for you.