DBT vs CBT: The Key Differences

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) are both frequently-used approaches to psychotherapy, but they have some key differences in how they’re used and the goals they set out to achieve. You might benefit from both of these treatments, or you might find that one works better for you than the other does. Here are the key differences between DBT and CBT so you can decide which treatment is right for you.

What is Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)?

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) is a type of cognitive-behavioural therapy that has been specifically designed to address issues related to borderline personality disorder. Since borderline personality disorder affects such a small portion of Brits, many people may not even be aware that it’s an actual diagnosis.  However, it can have a huge impact on those who are diagnosed with it – and their loved ones. If you know someone who suffers from BPD or if you suffer from BPD yourself, DBT might be something worth looking into for help with coping skills and stress management. Here’s what you need to know about DBT and how it differs from other types of therapy.

What Is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)?

Cognitive behavioural therapy is an evidence-based form of psychotherapy used to treat anxiety, depression, and a variety of other mental health conditions. This evidence-based approach, also known as cognitive behavioural psychotherapy (CBT), trains people to pay attention to specific thoughts that can trigger a negative mood or thought pattern. It teaches them how to change those negative patterns into more positive patterns.

Similarities Between DBT and CBT

Because DBT and CBT are both psychotherapies, it’s not surprising that many of their techniques overlap. Both therapies take a comprehensive approach to mental health; neither is solely about learning how to manage mood or control urges. Instead, these modalities aim to reduce distress by improving your relationship with yourself and others.  They also emphasise acceptance rather than change—for example, you might learn to accept that you have an addiction rather than work toward eliminating it. While there are some similarities between DBT and CBT, there are also several key differences between them.

Why Is It Beneficial to Combine Them?

DBT and CBT are two popular psychotherapies, both of which have been proven effective for treating a wide range of mental health disorders. If you’re wondering why someone would want to combine these treatment techniques into one package, there are a few reasons to consider.  First, some research suggests that combining DBT with CBT can help people achieve better results in therapy than they might otherwise. Second, some people may find it easier to learn new skills from one therapist who uses multiple approaches—and who can then tailor their therapy based on what’s working best at any given time. Finally, combining therapies can help reduce stigma around mental illness by showing clients that their condition is treatable using methods that aren’t considered traditional psychiatry.

Summary of the Benefits of DBT & CBT

Many people are drawn to one therapy or another based on their personal history, what they’ve heard from friends or family members, or what they’ve read. However, despite their differences, many people believe that Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) have similar aims and outcomes. DBT does indeed include skills from CBT, but each has its own set of unique characteristics.