Art Therapy + Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Skills
Children, Teens and Adults
Midtown Manhattan & Bronxville New York
Art Therapy integrated Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
The integration of Art Therapy and DBT creates a synergistic approach that helps folks identify and manage emotions, and experience personal growth through the synergy of these therapeutic approaches.
What is DBT?
DBT is a form of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) that effectively addresses how to manage intense emotions, build relationships, and tolerate distress through a skills-based approach to therapy. The pillars of DBT are emotion regulation, distress tolerance, mindfulness and interpersonal effectiveness. DBT was originally designed to treat Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). It continues to be the gold standard for treating BPD, suicidal ideation, and self-harm.
What is Art Therapy?
Art Therapy is a type of psychotherapy involving creative self expression through various art making materials. Art therapy provides a unique avenue for individuals to express their thoughts and emotions visually, complementing the verbal aspects of therapy. Through art, clients better understand their cognitive patterns and beliefs.
What can DBT-informed art therapy help with?
The integration of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) with Art Therapy is a groundbreaking approach for children, teens and adults that holds tremendous promise in the treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), Social Skills, Emotion regulation, Self-Harm and Suicidal Behavior.
It empowers individuals to develop practical coping strategies. Combining therapies can help folks better process their experiences, reduce distressing symptoms, challenge negative beliefs and regain a sense of control over their lives.
Art Therapy Integrated DBT facilitates a practical skills-based approach mental health care
Here’s how we integrated DBT:
We infuse DBT Skills: We offer the infusion of DBT Skills training, one-on-one, in sessions. We infuse DBT Skills under the following categories; emotion regulation, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness and mindfulness.
We follow DBT-Informed protocols and best practices: We use modes and protocols of DBT such as DBT Diary Cards to track progress, and reinforcing life worth living goals. We also follow best practices for addressing suicidality and self-harm.
We offer half sessions and coaching in between session: We offer coaching in between sessions if you’re struggling.
How Does Art Therapy support DBT?
Art Therapy will be used as a tool to enhance Dialectical Behavior Therapy Skills training, reinforce and integrate DBT Skills, build self-esteem, and better visualize a life worth living. Through art making, you may also explore goals, self-regulation techniques, and deepen a sense of belonging.