How is DBT different from CBT?

DBT builds on CBT's core principles but adds a stronger emphasis on mindfulness, distress tolerance, and balancing acceptance with change, the 'dialectic' in DBT refers to holding both acceptance and the need for change at the same time.

What are the four skill areas taught in DBT?

DBT teaches four core skill modules: mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness, each building practical tools for managing intense emotions and relationships.

What conditions is DBT used to treat?

DBT is considered a leading treatment for borderline personality disorder, and its skills are also used to support treatment for depression, anxiety, and difficulty with emotional regulation more broadly.

Is DBT covered by insurance?

Most major insurance carriers cover DBT when delivered as part of standard mental health treatment. Our admissions team can verify your specific coverage before you begin.

Treatment Modality

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) in Pennsylvania

Skills-based treatment for emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness, in Phoenixville, PA and statewide via telehealth.

Verify Insurance Call (610) 563-2752

Licensed, Accredited & Certified

Joint Commission

Accredited

Pennsylvania Licensed

PA DHS approved facility

LegitScript

Certified

Content reviewed by Dr. Jeffrey Simon, MD, Medical Director & Psychiatrist

Last reviewed: 2026-07-11

What It Is

Understanding Dialectical Behavior Therapy

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a structured, evidence-based form of therapy that builds on cognitive-behavioral principles while adding a strong emphasis on mindfulness and acceptance. The word "dialectical" refers to DBT's core philosophy: holding two seemingly opposite ideas at once, accepting yourself exactly as you are right now, while also working actively toward change. Originally developed to treat borderline personality disorder, DBT's skills-based approach has since proven useful for a broader range of emotional and interpersonal challenges.

Located in Phoenixville, we offer DBT to individuals throughout Chester County and the greater Philadelphia region, including Pottstown, Malvern, Norristown, and surrounding communities.

Leading treatment for BPD

Evidence-based

4 core skill modules

Structured curriculum

Individual & group formats

Delivered together

Available in PHP, IOP & outpatient

Levels of care

Distinctive Approach

What Makes DBT Different From CBT

DBT is often described as a specialized evolution of CBT. While CBT focuses primarily on identifying and changing unhelpful thoughts, DBT adds a structured emphasis on mindfulness, tolerating distress without making things worse, and navigating relationships more effectively, while still holding onto CBT's core focus on changing behavior. DBT is also typically more structured around specific, named skill modules practiced both individually and in group settings, rather than being delivered one-on-one alone.

The Curriculum

The Four Skill Areas Taught in DBT

Mindfulness

Building the ability to stay present and observe your thoughts and feelings without being overwhelmed by them.

Distress Tolerance

Developing concrete skills to get through crisis moments without making the situation worse.

Emotion Regulation

Learning to identify, understand, and manage intense emotions rather than being controlled by them.

Interpersonal Effectiveness

Building skills for asking for what you need, setting boundaries, and navigating conflict in relationships.

Structure

What a DBT Program Looks Like

Comprehensive DBT typically combines weekly individual therapy with a structured skills training group, where you'll learn and practice the four skill modules alongside others working through similar challenges. Between sessions, many programs include practicing skills in real situations and reviewing progress with your individual therapist, DBT is an active, practice-based approach, not something that happens only in the therapy room.

Applications

Conditions We Treat With DBT

Borderline Personality Disorder

Learn more about BPD treatment →

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions About DBT

DBT is a structured, evidence-based form of cognitive-behavioral therapy that combines skills training with acceptance and mindfulness strategies, originally developed to treat borderline personality disorder.

Content reviewed by Dr. Jeffrey Simon, MD, Medical Director & Psychiatrist

Last reviewed: 2026-07-11

Take the next step

Start DBT with our clinical team. One call is all it takes.

Speak with an admissions specialist today, free, confidential, and no obligation.

Call (610) 563-2752 Verify Insurance

2215 Kimberton Road, Suite 1A, Phoenixville, PA 19460

Content reviewed by Dr. Jeffrey Simon, MD, Medical Director & Psychiatrist | Last reviewed: 2026-07-11