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DBT-PE (Dialectical Behavior Therapy – Prolonged Exposure)

An integrated approach for trauma survivors with PTSD and high emotional dysregulation.

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Quick Overview

Best for

 PTSD, complex trauma, dissociation, self-harm, substance use with trauma history

Session format

Individual therapy (with DBT + Prolonged Exposure), In person or Virtual

Typical cadence

Weekly sessions, Session length: 60–90 minutes

Duration

Often 3–6 months within a larger DBT program

Often combined with

Standard DBT, trauma-informed therapy, psychiatry, group support

Evidence base

Research shows DBT-PE reduces PTSD symptoms while supporting safety for individuals at high risk

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What Is DBT-PE?

DBT-PE is an adaptation of Dialectical Behavior Therapy that integrates Prolonged Exposure therapy, a gold-standard trauma treatment. It was designed for individuals with PTSD who also struggle with emotional instability, self-harm, or suicidal thoughts groups who may not tolerate exposure therapy alone.

The DBT framework provides stabilization, coping skills, and crisis management. Once stability is in place, Prolonged Exposure helps individuals safely process traumatic memories, reduce avoidance, and reclaim their lives from PTSD.

How DBT-PE Helps in Recovery

Blending Skills and Exposure for Lasting Healing

Reduces PTSD symptoms

Reduces PTSD symptoms

Calms intrusive memories, nightmares, and flashbacks

Increases safety

Increases safety

Uses DBT’s structure to reduce self-harm or unsafe behaviors during trauma work

Improves emotional regulation

Improves emotional regulation

Supports balance during and after trauma processing

Builds resilience

Builds resilience

Encourages confidence, empowerment, and long-term healing

What to Expect in Sessions

DBT-PE typically unfolds in two stages:

  • Stabilization with DBT skills: Clients build coping strategies for safety, emotion regulation, and distress tolerance.

  • Prolonged Exposure: When ready, clients begin safely revisiting and processing traumatic memories, reducing avoidance and reclaiming daily functioning.

Sessions include relaxation, grounding, and mindfulness to balance exposure work with emotional stability. Therapists carefully pace the process to ensure safety and empowerment.

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Who Benefits from DBT-PE?

Designed for Those Healing from Trauma and PTSD

For Individuals with PTSD and Complex Trauma

For Individuals with PTSD and Complex Trauma

Individuals with PTSD and complex trauma histories

For Those Facing Self-Harm or Suicidal Thoughts

For Those Facing Self-Harm or Suicidal Thoughts

People who also struggle with self-harm, suicidal ideation, or substance use

For Adults Not Helped by Traditional PTSD Therapy

For Adults Not Helped by Traditional PTSD Therapy

Adults who have not improved with traditional PTSD therapy alone

For Those Needing a Structured Recovery Path

For Those Needing a Structured Recovery Path

Those needing a structured, step-by-step approach to trauma recovery

For Anyone Seeking Both Healing and Emotional Safety

For Anyone Seeking Both Healing and Emotional Safety

Anyone seeking a balance of trauma work + emotional safety

Why TruPaths Highlights DBT-PE

Because Healing Trauma Requires More Than Talk

TruPaths highlights DBT-PE because many individuals with trauma and PTSD are excluded from traditional treatments due to safety concerns. DBT-PE provides a comprehensive, trauma-informed solution that addresses both PTSD symptoms and the high-risk behaviors that often accompany them.

FAQs about DBT-PE

Yes. DBT-PE was specifically developed to make trauma treatment safer for individuals at high risk.
Yes. Many providers now offer trauma-focused care online with strong outcomes.
It combines Prolonged Exposure with DBT’s structure—skills training, stabilization, and crisis support—before and during trauma work.
Often, yes. DBT-PE is billed as psychotherapy. TruPaths providers share accepted insurance and financial details.
The trauma-focused portion typically lasts 3–6 months, often within a longer DBT program.

Find Recovery Options Offering DBT-PE

Healing from trauma is possible. If PTSD and emotional instability are holding you back, DBT-PE provides a safe, structured path to recovery.

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About TruPath's Recommendations

Recommendations are based on your location and recovery needs, including the programs you've explored, the services you've saved, and the filters you've used. We use this information to highlight similar treatment options so you never miss a trusted path forward.