What Does a DBT Therapist Do?

If you're living in Chicago and considering therapy, you may have come across the term "DBT" or Dialectical Behavior Therapy. But what does a DBT therapist do, and how could this form of therapy benefit you? Dialectical Behavior Therapy is often associated with individuals struggling with intense emotions, self-destructive behaviors, or mental health conditions like borderline personality disorder (BPD). However, DBT is much broader than that, offering Chicago residents solutions for a wide range of emotional and psychological challenges.

Unlike traditional talk therapy, a DBT therapist focuses on teaching skills that help clients regulate emotions, improve relationships, and build healthier coping mechanisms. In this article, we'll dive into the specifics of what a DBT therapist does, provide some unique insights, and explore how Wellman Psychology’s DBT therapists in Chicago can support you in your journey to mental wellness.

What Exactly is DBT?

Before we delve into what a DBT therapist does, let’s talk about DBT itself. Developed by psychologist Marsha Linehan in the late 1980s, DBT was originally created to treat individuals with borderline personality disorder (BPD). Over time, it has proven highly effective for treating other issues, such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

DBT combines cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) with mindfulness techniques. It helps individuals better tolerate stress, manage emotions, and maintain stable relationships. This makes DBT highly effective for those who have difficulty managing intense emotions or impulses. But, it’s not just for individuals diagnosed with mental health disorders—DBT can help anyone who feels overwhelmed by their emotions.

How Does a DBT Therapist Differ from Other Therapists?

While most therapy approaches involve talking through problems, a DBT therapist is a bit different. Their focus is not just on discussing emotions but also on teaching practical skills to manage them. DBT Therapist Chicago focuses on four key areas:

  1. Mindfulness – Helping clients stay present and fully experience their emotions without judgment. This is crucial for those who feel consumed by negative thoughts or emotions.

  2. Distress Tolerance – Building skills to manage and survive crises without resorting to unhealthy behaviors like self-harm or substance use.

  3. Emotion Regulation – Teaching clients how to identify, understand, and manage their emotions effectively.

  4. Interpersonal Effectiveness – Developing skills to interact with others in a healthy, assertive way, even in difficult situations.

The process is more structured than most traditional therapies. Many therapists use workbooks and homework assignments that help clients practice skills between sessions.

The Unique Aspects of DBT That Most People Don’t Know

Most people understand that DBT is about skills training, but there are some lesser-known aspects that make this therapy unique and effective:

Group Skills Training

While one-on-one sessions are important, many DBT programs, including those at Wellman Psychology in Chicago, also offer group therapy. In these group settings, clients practice DBT skills in a supportive environment, helping them feel less isolated in their struggles. Research shows that group DBT can be highly effective—people who participate in group DBT report a 62% reduction in harmful behaviors.

Phone Coaching

One unique feature of DBT therapy is phone coaching. In times of crisis, a DBT therapist may offer phone support between sessions. This allows clients to apply their skills in real time, helping prevent setbacks. Few therapies offer this kind of out-of-session support, which can be a lifeline for clients experiencing high emotional distress.

Therapist Consultation Teams

DBT Therapist Chicago often meet in consultation teams to prevent burnout and ensure they’re delivering the most effective treatment possible. This team approach allows therapists to continuously improve their skills and provide clients with the best care. Wellman Psychology is proud to have a dedicated consultation team, ensuring our DBT therapists in Chicago are always offering top-tier services.

Homework Assignments

While some types of therapy encourage self-reflection, DBT takes it a step further with structured homework assignments. These tasks are meant to reinforce the skills learned in therapy sessions. Completing these assignments allows clients to practice their skills in real-world situations and then discuss the results with their therapist in the following session.

Why DBT is Effective for Chicago Residents

Living in a bustling city like Chicago can sometimes add stress to life, from hectic work schedules to navigating traffic and everything in between. Emotional regulation becomes especially important in a high-stress environment. DBT’s mindfulness and distress tolerance skills are ideal for helping people navigate the stressors of urban living. Whether you're juggling a busy work-life balance or facing personal challenges, DBT can equip you with the tools to handle it all more effectively.

How Wellman Psychology Can Help Chicago Residents with DBT Therapy

At Wellman Psychology, we specialize in offering evidence-based DBT therapy to the residents of Chicago. Our DBT therapists are trained to help clients manage a range of issues, including anxiety, depression, and borderline personality disorder, as well as everyday emotional struggles. We offer both individual and group therapy options, giving clients the flexibility to choose what suits their needs best.

Our DBT therapists in Chicago focus on making therapy accessible and practical. With phone coaching available during moments of crisis and personalized treatment plans, we’re here to support you in every step of your emotional growth. Plus, Wellman Psychology’s therapists work collaboratively with clients to ensure they’re not just learning DBT techniques but actually applying them in their daily lives. By working with our experts, Chicago residents can find long-term relief and emotional balance.

The Real Impact of DBT

A study conducted by Northwestern University found that DBT can reduce suicidal behavior in individuals with BPD by as much as 50%. Moreover, clients who participate in DBT often report better relationships and improved emotional health long after therapy ends. Another Chicago-based study showed that DBT participants experienced a significant reduction in hospitalizations related to mental health crises. These stats emphasize the effectiveness of DBT, especially in urban environments like Chicago, where stress levels tend to be higher.

Is DBT Right for You?

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by emotions, struggling in your relationships, or simply seeking better emotional control, DBT may be right for you. The structured nature of DBT makes it an excellent choice for those who prefer a clear, skills-based approach to therapy. And if you're in Chicago, Wellman Psychology’s DBT therapists are here to provide the support you need to make meaningful changes.

Read more about “How to Become a DBT Therapist?” on our blog page today!

Conclusion: Take the First Step Toward Emotional Well-being

DBT therapy isn’t just for individuals with severe mental health issues—it’s for anyone looking to improve their emotional resilience and quality of life. Whether you're facing a specific mental health diagnosis or just want to feel more in control of your emotions, DBT therapy can be a transformative experience. For residents of Chicago, Wellman Psychology offers personalized DBT therapy with trained professionals ready to guide you on your journey.

Ready to take control of your emotions? At Wellman Psychology, our expert DBT therapists in Chicago are here to help you build the skills you need for a happier, healthier life. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety depression, or simply want to improve your emotional resilience, DBT can make a difference. Contact us today to schedule a consultation, and let’s start working together on your journey to mental wellness. Reach out now and see how we can help!