Therapy at Crestview
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) in Portland, Oregon
DBT is a structured psychotherapy that teaches practical skills for managing intense emotions, handling distress and improving relationships. Crestview uses it in its mental health and addiction programs.
Talk with Garrett, Tuni or another member of our admissions team.
Medically reviewed by Medical Director Dave Cundiff, MD, MPH, FASAM · Updated
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Four skill modules
What DBT teaches
The skills balance acceptance with change. Mindfulness and distress tolerance help you accept and get through hard moments. Emotion regulation and interpersonal effectiveness help you change reactions and communicate clearly.
Mindfulness
Staying present and noticing thoughts and feelings without judging them.
Distress tolerance
Getting through a crisis without harmful behavior, using tools such as slow breathing and self-soothing.
Emotion regulation
Naming emotions and changing unwanted reactions, including through opposite action.
Interpersonal effectiveness
Communication, boundary-setting and assertiveness.
How it is delivered
Three parts working together
Full DBT combines structured group work with individual therapy. Program details can vary.
Individual therapy
At least weekly. Focused on applying skills to your own situations and building motivation.
Skills training
At least weekly group classes with a group leader, plus daily practice homework.
Team consultation
Regular meetings for the therapists who support your DBT work, so complex cases get more than one view.
Who it's for
Conditions DBT can help with
DBT was developed in the 1970s by Marsha Linehan for chronic conditions such as borderline personality disorder. It is also used more widely.
Is it a fit?
DBT asks for commitment
DBT may not suit you if you are not ready to commit to regular sessions and practice, want short-term therapy, want quick results, have severe cognitive impairment or psychosis, or are not open to mindfulness and emotion-regulation techniques. Your clinician will talk through this with you.
Duration
How long DBT takes
Most DBT programs last six to 12 months, depending on your needs.
Coverage
Check each component
Most plans help cover DBT, but coverage can differ for each component. Our insurance verification explains what your plan covers before you start.
The four skill areas
The four pillars of DBT
DBT balances acceptance with change. Skills are taught in groups and practiced as homework.
Mindfulness
Staying present and noticing thoughts and feelings without judging them.
Distress tolerance
Getting through a crisis or craving without making it worse.
Emotion regulation
Understanding emotions and changing the ones you want to change.
Interpersonal effectiveness
Asking for what you need and saying no while keeping relationships healthy.
Benefits
What DBT can improve
People who complete DBT often notice changes like these.
- More stable emotions and less reactivity
- Coping skills for cravings and stress
- Fewer impulsive or harmful behaviors
- Healthier relationships and communication
- Greater awareness through mindfulness
- Confidence handling a crisis
Questions
Common questions about DBT
Admissions can answer anything that isn't here.
Still have a question?
Garrett, Tuni and the admissions team can answer anything that is not here. Confidential, no obligation.
Call (866) 262-0531Is DBT based on CBT?
Yes. DBT is rooted in cognitive behavioral therapy and adds mindfulness and acceptance-based skills.
Does DBT include group work?
Full DBT includes skills groups along with individual therapy. Your team will confirm the format for your program.
Is DBT covered by insurance?
Most plans help cover it, but coverage varies for each part. Verify your benefits before you start.
What are the four pillars of DBT?
Mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation and interpersonal effectiveness.
Who was DBT developed for?
DBT was first developed for borderline personality disorder. It is now also used for depression, self-harm, substance use and other conditions where emotions feel overwhelming.
Not sure which level of care fits?
Talk it through with Garrett, Tuni or another member of our admissions team. The call is free and confidential, and there is no obligation.
Talk with admissions about DBT
A confidential call. We'll listen, check your insurance and explain whether DBT fits your goals. No obligation.