Navigating Complex Emotions Through DBT Strategies
Addressing Guilt with Opposite Action
One significant area of focus in Adriana’s treatment was the application of opposite action to manage guilt. This DBT technique involves assessing the justification of an emotion and acting in opposition to its key features. The goal is to regulate the intensity of the emotion, especially if it’s unjustified, to make it more manageable and aligned with reality.
Analyzing Values Concerning Guilt
Adriana grappled with guilt stemming from her relationship with her mother. Through therapy, she explored whether maintaining contact aligned with her values and whether the intensity of her guilt was justified. The therapy aimed to help Adriana discern her values and the appropriate level of contact with her mother that didn’t exacerbate her negative emotions.
Practical Application of DBT Techniques
Implementing Opposite Action
Adriana’s therapy included practical exercises to implement opposite action for unjustified guilt. This involved not responding immediately to her mother’s texts or calls and refraining from seeking reassurance for her actions from her spouse. The objective was not to eliminate guilt but to manage the unjustified portion while honoring her value of maintaining some contact with her mother.
Role-Playing and Coping Plan Development
The therapist engaged Adriana in role-playing exercises to prepare her for interactions with her mother that historically triggered negative emotions. This exercise aimed to equip her with skills to manage these interactions effectively. A collaborative effort was made to develop a coping plan for situations where Adriana felt dismissed or invalidated after talking to her mother.
Collaborative Skills Building
Adriana and her therapist worked together to identify the skills she could use post-interaction with her mother. This collaborative approach ensured that Adriana felt confident and clear about her responses to potential triggers from her mother, integrating self-validation and other DBT skills.