Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)

We’ve all been there – hanging out with the same group of people since who knows when. We’ve come to accept them for everything they are, faults and all. We’ve already forgiven them for the pain they will cause us in the future because we’re best buds. But, you know what? Being made to feel…

Looking at the world through a black and white lens is common in people dealing with anxiety, depression, OCD, borderline personality disorder and other mental health conditions. This rigid way of processing actions and beliefs of your own, and others around you, can ease distressing symptoms caused by cognitive upset. In her informative video lecture,…

The transition into adulthood requires a switch from dependence on your parents’ rules and guidance to self-management. As much as you are struggling with this change, your parents are likely experiencing similar difficulty adjusting to this transformation. In order to become a fully independent adult, you must set appropriate boundaries for yourself and your space,…

External validation depends on a positive feedback loop from outsiders in response to your actions or expressions. If, at any point, your expressions, actions, and/or outside responses change course, your feelings of self-worth may plummet. Relying on outside forces for validation can put even the most well-adjusted individuals on a crash course towards self-sabotage. If…

About a year ago, I wrote about my experiences using DBT with my toddler while he was in the “Terrible Twos” phase. I am happy to report that we have made it to three, mostly unscathed. I had heard rumblings about the “Threenager” year and wasn’t sure what to expect however blogs, articles, and friends…

The second set of mindfulness skills are the “How” Skills, which teach specifically how to practice your mindfulness skills. The “How” skills are Nonjudgmentally, One-Mindfully, and Effectively. Unlike the “What” skills, these can all be done at the same time. Nonjudgmentally: The idea is to let go of judgment when evaluating people, their behavior, and…

Do you ever drive home from work and not remember how you got there? How about misplacing your keys when you were just holding them? Or taking a shower and not remembering if you already put shampoo? Do you ever feel like you are living on auto-pilot and just going through the motions? I know…

Coming to terms with a mental health diagnosis when you’re a young adult can be distressing to say the least. You may find yourself isolating from your family because they don’t seem to understand. Or, you may see a friend being consoled and supported by his parents and think to yourself “I hate my mom.”…