Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) at Sentient Path PLLC

What is DBT?

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based, cognitive-behavioral therapy designed to help individuals develop emotional regulation, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and mindfulness skills. Originally developed by Dr. Marsha Linehan for individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) (Linehan, 1993), DBT has since been adapted to treat anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, eating disorders, and substance use disorders(Bein, 2014).

At Sentient Path PLLC, we offer individual DBT therapy, DBT-informed therapy, and skills training groups to support clients in navigating emotional challenges, improving relationships, and building a life worth living.

Who Can Benefit from DBT?

DBT has been shown to be effective for individuals experiencing:
✅ Emotional Dysregulation – Intense mood swings, anger, or impulsivity
✅ Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) – Difficulty with relationships and self-identity
✅ Anxiety & Depression – Persistent worry, hopelessness, or emotional instability
✅ ADHD – Struggles with focus, impulsivity, and executive functioning
✅ PTSD & Trauma – Difficulty processing past traumatic experiences
✅ Substance Abuse & Addictions – Struggles with urges, cravings, and relapse prevention
✅ Relationship Conflicts – Difficulty maintaining friendships or romantic relationships

Research has demonstrated DBT’s effectiveness in reducing self-harm behaviors, improving emotional stability, and enhancing quality of life (Pederson, 2017; Linehan, 2015).

The Four DBT Skill Modules

1. Mindfulness

Mindfulness is the foundation of DBT, helping individuals stay present in the moment and reduce emotional reactivity. This practice supports stress reduction, focus, and improved self-awareness (Kabat-Zinn, 1990).

2. Distress Tolerance

This module equips clients with tools to manage crisis situations and intense emotions without resorting to destructive behaviors. Techniques include:

  • Radical Acceptance – Accepting reality instead of resisting it

  • Self-Soothing Strategies – Using the five senses to regulate emotions

  • IMPROVE Skills – Techniques to enhance distress resilience (Bein, 2018)

3. Emotion Regulation

DBT helps individuals understand and regulate their emotions through strategies like:

  • Identifying and labeling emotions

  • Opposite Action – Acting against emotional urges

  • Reducing emotional vulnerability (Linehan, 2015)

4. Interpersonal Effectiveness

This module teaches skills for healthy communication, setting boundaries, and maintaining self-respect in relationships. Techniques include:

  • DEAR MAN – A structured approach for assertive communication

  • GIVE – Relationship-building techniques

  • FAST – Self-respect strategies (Pederson, 2017)

Our DBT Therapy Services

✔ Individual DBT Therapy – One-on-one therapy integrating DBT skills and tailored support
✔ DBT Skills Training Groups – Weekly group sessions teaching core DBT techniques
✔ DBT-Informed Therapy – Therapy incorporating DBT strategies without full protocol
✔ DBT for Teens & Young Adults – Specialized support for emotional regulation and social challenges
✔ DBT for ADHD – Enhancing focus, impulse control, and executive functioning

Research supports DBT’s effectiveness across various populations, including adolescents, veterans, individuals with eating disorders, and those recovering from trauma (Bein, 2018; Linehan, 2015).

Why Choose Sentient Path PLLC for DBT Therapy?

🌿 DBT-Certified & Experienced Therapists – Specialized training in DBT and evidence-based interventions
📍 In-Person & Virtual DBT Therapy – Convenient access for clients in Flower Mound, TX, and across Texas
💡 Customized Treatment Plans – Tailored DBT skills coaching, real-world applications, and progress tracking

Schedule a Consultation

Take the first step toward emotional balance and healthier relationships with DBT therapy. Book a consultation today or email Admin@SentientPath.com to get started.

References

  • Bein, A. (2014). Dialectical behavior therapy for wellness and recovery: Interventions and activities for diverse client needs. Wiley.

  • Bein, A. (2018). Adapting dialectical behavior therapy for everyday clinical needs. PESI Publishing.

  • Kabat-Zinn, J. (1990). Full catastrophe living: Using the wisdom of your body and mind to face stress, pain, and illness. Delta.

  • Linehan, M. M. (1993). Cognitive-behavioral treatment of borderline personality disorder. Guilford Press.

  • Linehan, M. M. (2015). DBT skills training manual (2nd ed.). Guilford Press.

  • Pederson, L. (2017). The expanded DBT skills training manual (2nd ed.). PESI Publishing.