Dialectical behavior therapy DBT

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a structured, skills-based therapy designed to help individuals manage intense emotions, improve relationships, and build healthier coping strategies. Shanell's Psychiatry Care, LLC, in Peoria, Illinois, led by Shanell Gladson, APRN, PMHNP-BC, offers evidence-based DBT to support individuals experiencing emotional dysregulation, trauma-related symptoms, anxiety, depression, or difficulty managing stress. Treatment focuses on developing practical tools to increase stability, resilience, and emotional balance. To learn more, call the office or request an appointment online. 

What is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)?

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a type of cognitive-behavioral therapy that helps individuals learn how to manage overwhelming emotions while improving relationships and daily functioning. The term “dialectical” refers to balancing two ideas at once — accepting yourself as you are while also working toward meaningful change.

DBT combines practical coping skills with mindfulness strategies to help individuals respond to stress in healthier, more intentional ways. It was originally developed to treat chronic emotional dysregulation and has since been widely used for a range of mental health conditions. Sessions are structured and skill-focused, giving individuals concrete tools they can begin applying immediately in daily life.

Who is a good candidate for DBT?

DBT may benefit individuals who:

• Experience intense or rapidly shifting emotions
• Struggle with mood instability
• Have difficulty managing anger or impulsivity
• Experience self-destructive or self-sabotaging behaviors
• Have a history of trauma
• Struggle with relationship conflict
• Feel overwhelmed by stress

DBT is particularly helpful for individuals who feel emotionally reactive or have difficulty calming themselves during distress.

What are the core skills taught in DBT?

DBT focuses on four primary skill areas:

• Mindfulness – Building awareness of thoughts and emotions without judgment
• Distress tolerance – Learning healthy ways to cope with crisis or intense emotional moments
• Emotional regulation – Identifying and managing strong emotions more effectively
• Interpersonal effectiveness – Improving communication and setting healthy boundaries

These skills are practical and can be applied in everyday life.

When is DBT used?

DBT is commonly used to support individuals experiencing:

• Borderline personality disorder
• PTSD and trauma-related symptoms
• Chronic anxiety
• Depression with emotional instability
• Self-harm behaviors
• Impulsive behaviors
• Relationship difficulties

DBT may also be integrated with medication management when appropriate, providing comprehensive and coordinated mental health care.

Care is provided in a supportive, structured environment where both acceptance and growth are emphasized. The goal is to help individuals feel more grounded, confident, and capable of navigating life’s challenges.

Shanell's Psychiatry Care, LLC offers compassionate, evidence-based Dialectical Behavior Therapy designed to strengthen emotional resilience and long-term mental wellness.

Call Shanell's Psychiatry Care, LLC today to schedule a DBT consultation or request an appointment through the online booking form.