DBT Stages and Targets: A Therapeutic Roadmap

Stephanie Vaughn

Psychē, PLLC Vanderbilt University

Key Points

  1. Lisa is in stage one of DBT, which focuses on stabilization, reducing three categories of detrimental behavior, and increasing skills, primarily through group therapy and individual therapy involving behavioral chain analyses.
  2. Priority is given to addressing life-threatening behavior, as immediate risks to life supersede other concerns.
  3. It is vital for therapists to maintain a structured and focused approach, addressing life-threatening and therapy-interfering behaviors before delving into quality-of-life-interfering issues, ensuring that the client remains engaged and progress is made.
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DBT Stage One: Stabilization and Skills Acquisition

Having learned about DBT expectations, the biosocial model, and phone coaching, Lisa made a commitment to DBT. She agreed to rule out suicide as an option for one year and to participate in time-consuming group therapy.

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