Dialectical Behavior Therapy in Private Practice: A Practical and Comprehensive Guide

More Than a Treatment Strategy-A Whole New Direction in Psychotherapy

More than just a new behavioral treatment approach, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) marks a whole new theoretical orientation to the practice of clinical psychology-a rethinking of the causes, descriptions, and treatments of acute mental disorders. This volume offers a detailed explication of DBT in theory and practice. Designed to teach professionals how to use this method in a private-practice setting to treat a range of disorders, this book includes a clear and concise presentation of:

• DBT and its orientation within the larger context of psychotherapy
• Dialectic conflict and its role in sustaining mental disorders
• The DBT coping skill set: meaning-making, mindfulness, emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and strategic behavior skills
• Practical applications of DBT to a number of acute mental disorders

Includes a weblink to client worksheets and five skills-training slide shows

Thomas Marra, PhD, founded and directed one of the first inpatient psychiatric programs using dialectic behavior therapy as the clinical focus of treatment for every patient admitted to the facility, regardless of diagnosis. He has practical and theoretical experience in treating a wide patient population using the principles and strategies of DBT. He has been practicing clinical psychology for 25 years, first as a military psychologist in both inpatient and outpatient settings, then in civilian settings as administrator, trainer, and clinician. He is author of Dialectical Behavior Therapy in Private Practice and Depressed and Anxious.