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Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT)

Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT) is a highly specialised psychological therapy designed to help individuals who experience intense emotions, unstable relationships, and difficulties managing distress. Originally developed for people with borderline personality disorder (BPD), DBT is now widely used to treat a range of mental health conditions where emotional regulation is a challenge.

At Sunshine Clinic Private Hospital, DBT is offered through structured outpatient day programs delivered by our experienced allied health team. Patients are supported to learn practical skills that reduce distress, improve relationships, and build a more stable and fulfilling life.

Overview of Dialectical Behavioural Therapy

DBT combines elements of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) with mindfulness principles. The word dialectical refers to balancing two key ideas: acceptance of who we are in the present moment, and the need for change to improve quality of life. The therapy focuses on four main skill areas:

1

Mindfulness –learning to stay present and fully engaged in the moment.

2

Distress Tolerance – developing tools to manage crises without resorting to harmful behaviours.

3

Emotion regulation – identifying, understanding, and managing strong emotions more effectively.

4

Interpersonal effectiveness – improving communication and building healthier, more stable relationships.

DBT is usually delivered in both group and individual formats, with patients encouraged to practise skills between sessions. It is highly structured, practical, and supportive.

Conditions Treated with DBT

While DBT was originally designed for borderline personality disorder, its effectiveness has led to broader use in treating other mental health concerns. At Sunshine Clinic, DBT may be recommended for:
Reducing impulsivity, self-harm, and unstable relationships.
Particularly where difficulties with emotional regulation are present.
Including depression and bipolar disorder, supporting patients to manage intense emotions.
Reducing avoidance behaviours and improving coping strategies.
Providing tools to manage distress and regulate emotional responses.
Addressing cravings and teaching strategies to avoid relaps
Helping individuals adapt to stressful life changes while managing emotional responses.
DBT is particularly valuable for individuals who may have struggled with other therapies or who feel overwhelmed by their emotions.

Evidence for Dialectical Behavioural Therapy

DBT is one of the most well-researched therapies for personality disorders and has been shown to significantly improve outcomes for patients experiencing emotional dysregulation.

International studies show DBT reduces hospital admissions, self-harm behaviours, and suicidal thoughts, while improving quality of life. It is considered the gold standard psychological treatment for BPD.
Evidence demonstrates DBT reduces depressive symptoms and supports emotional stability, even in patients who have not responded well to other treatments.
Research shows DBT can reduce substance misuse by focusing on distress tolerance and values-driven action.
DBT-informed approaches are effective in reducing hyperarousal and avoidance, particularly when combined with trauma-focused therapies.

In Australia, DBT is increasingly offered in both public and private mental health settings. The Australian Psychological Society recognises it as an evidence-based treatment, particularly for complex presentations.

How DBT is Delivered at Sunshine Clinic Private Hospital

At Sunshine Clinic, DBT is delivered in a structured and supportive environment designed to maximise learning and recovery. Patients may participate in:

  • Group therapy sessions – where DBT skills are taught and practised with guidance from trained clinicians.
  • Individual therapy – focusing on applying DBT skills to each patient’s unique circumstances.
  • Homework and practice exercises – encouraging patients to apply skills in real-life situations.
  • Integration with other therapies – such as mindfulness, ACT, and creative therapies, providing a holistic treatment approach.

Our outpatient day programs provide a balance of structure and flexibility, allowing patients to develop skills while continuing with their daily responsibilities. For those experiencing greater distress, inpatient support may be recommended to provide additional safety and stability.

Why DBT is Valuable for Recovery

Many patients who come to DBT have felt overwhelmed by their emotions for years and may believe that lasting change is not possible. DBT offers a structured, compassionate, and evidence-based pathway forward. Patients often report:

  • A greater sense of control over their emotions.
  • Reduced impulsive behaviours and self-harm.
  • More stable and fulfilling relationships.
  • Increased resilience during stressful times.
  • Renewed hope and confidence in their ability to cope.

At Sunshine Clinic Private Hospital, DBT is more than just a therapy – it is an opportunity to build a life that feels worth living. Guided by experienced clinicians, patients are supported every step of the way in learning skills that bring calm, stability, and lasting recovery.

Comprehensive Private Mental Health Care in Melbourne’s West

Sunshine Clinic offers psychiatry consulting services, as well as inpatient and outpatient programs tailored to support recovery, resilience, and long-term wellbeing.

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