Dialectical Behavioral Therapy Theory

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Application of Theory: Psychoanalysis, Existential Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy Melanie Novick, BSN, RN NURS 609: Family Psych & Mental Health Theory SUNY Upstate Medical University It is well known that psychiatric disorders are best treated by a combination of therapy and medication management (Zorumski & Rubin, 2011). Generally, mental health care is compartmentalized. A person may go to a primary care physician for medications and a counselor for therapy. The professional value of psychiatric nurse practitioners (NPPs) stretches boundaries. Combining the expertise to prescribe medications and the knowledge about various theories, the NPP can truly provide holistic and individualized care to patients with…show more content…
In recent decades, behavior therapy has been revolutionized by DBT. Marsha Linehan is a Professor of Psychology and Director of the Behavioral Research & Therapy Clinics at the University of Washington. She developed DBT in the 1990’s as an outpatient modality for persons with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) who are chronically suicidal. (Prochaska & Norcross, 2010). Linehan drew from various behavior therapies and Zen principles. The word “dialectic” refers to opposing truths and can be traced to Socratic questioning. DBT focuses on integrating contradicting philosophies and creating a balance between acceptance and change. (Linehan, et al., 2006). Clients are validated for their experiences and feelings, but motivated to change behaviors. As in existential therapy, the client is encouraged to accept responsibility for his actions. DBT is now being applied to other disorders, such as substance abuse, eating disorders and PTSD (Sadock &Sadock,…show more content…
The above hypothetical patient does not have current or past self-injurious behavior or suicide attempts. She may benefit from the individual therapy and homework assignments. Although, it is possible that she learns maladaptive behaviors by attending group sessions. For the above scenario, simple behavioral and DBT principles may suffice. In conclusion, there may never be an ultimate theory for any one client. Integrating multiple theories in various stages is optimal. In addition, medication management is an extremely important responsibility. It is imperative that the NPP have a solid foundation of knowledge of the expansive theories and options for mental health treatment. References American Psychiatric Association (2000). Desk Reference to the DSM-IV-TR. Washington DC: American Psychiatric Association. Bohus, M., Haaf, B., Stiglemayr, C., Pohl, U., Bohme, R., & Linehan, M. (2000). Evaluation of inpatient Dialectical Behavioral Therapy for Borderline Personality Disorder—A Prospective Study. Behaviour Research and Therapy 38, 875-887. Cherry, K. (2011) Freud’s Stages of Psychosexual Development. Retrieved from
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