STAGES AND GOALS IN DBT
This form of therapy is designed to systematically and comprehensively treat issues in order of severity. Because DBT was initially intended for people with suicidal tendencies and extreme emotional issues, treatment happens in stages. This ensures all concerns are eventually addressed. DBT involves the following four stages:
Findings from multiple studies reflect the efficacy of DBT, especially for the treatment of borderline personality issues, posttraumatic stress, self-harm, and suicidality.
- Stage 1. The focus of this stage is stabilization. People in therapy may be dealing with things like suicidal thoughts, self-harm, or addiction. They often report feeling like they are at an all-time low point in their lives. Therapy is centered on safety and crisis intervention. The goal of this stage is to help people achieve some control over problematic behaviors.
- Stage 2. In this stage, behaviors are more stable, but mental health issues may still be present. Emotional pain is typically brought to the surface. Traumatic experiences are safely explored. The goal of this stage is for people in treatment to experience their emotional pain instead of silencing or burying it.
- Stage 3. This stage focuses on enhancing quality of life through maintenance of progress and reasonable goal-setting. The goal of this stage is to promote happiness and stability.
- Stage 4. During this stage, therapists support people in advancing their lives to the next level. In therapy, people may improve upon learned skills or work toward spiritual fulfillment. The goal of this stage is to help people achieve and maintain an ongoing capacity for happiness and success.
Findings from multiple studies reflect the efficacy of DBT, especially for the treatment of borderline personality issues, posttraumatic stress, self-harm, and suicidality.