Let’s Talk Claim Your Free Profile

Standard (Comprehensive) Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

The full, evidence-based DBT program that combines individual therapy, group skills, coaching, and team-based care.

Explore Programs Near You

Quick Overview

Best for

Borderline Personality Disorder, emotional dysregulation, trauma, substance use, self-harm.

Session format

 Individual + Group + Phone coaching + Therapist team support.

Typical cadence

Weekly individual sessions + weekly group skills training, Session length: 45–120 minutes.

Duration

6–12 months or longer.

Often combined with

Medication management, trauma therapy, holistic wellness practices.

Evidence base

Considered the most effective and comprehensive DBT model with decades of research.

overview-figure

What Is Standard DBT?

Standard, or Comprehensive DBT, is the original form of Dialectical Behavior Therapy developed by Marsha Linehan. It was designed for individuals with intense emotional struggles, high relapse risk, and unsafe coping strategies. Unlike skills-only programs, Standard DBT combines four core elements:

Individual therapy

 One-on-one sessions to address personal challenges and goals

Group skills training

Weekly groups teaching the four DBT skill modules (mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation)

Phone coaching

 Real-time therapist support to apply skills during crises or high-stress situations

Therapist consultation teams

 Clinicians meet regularly to maintain consistency, effectiveness, and quality of care

How Standard DBT Helps in Recovery

A structured approach to building emotional resilience and healthier coping skills

Reduces unsafe behaviors

Reduces unsafe behaviors

Provides consistent accountability and skills for relapse or suicidal thoughts

Improves emotion regulation

Improves emotion regulation

Teaches step-by-step tools for calming overwhelming feelings

Strengthens daily functioning

Strengthens daily functioning

Builds coping strategies for work, school, and relationships

Promotes long-term stability

Promotes long-term stability

Combines multiple therapeutic supports to sustain recovery over time

What to Expect in Standard DBT

Standard DBT is a highly structured program lasting 6–12 months or longer. A typical week may include:

  • One individual therapy session (45–60 minutes)
  • One group skills session (90–120 minutes)
  • Access to phone coaching between sessions for real-time support
  • Therapist consultation team meetings (behind the scenes to ensure effective care)

The combination ensures therapy is both personalized and consistent, offering multiple layers of support for complex needs.

session image

Who Benefits from Standard DBT?

Designed for individuals seeking effective strategies to manage intense emotions

Borderline Personality Disorder

Borderline Personality Disorder

Individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder

Emotional Dysregulation

Emotional Dysregulation

People experiencing intense emotional dysregulation

Self-Harm or Suicide Risk

Self-Harm or Suicide Risk

Those at risk of self-harm or suicidal behaviors

Substance Use & Emotional Struggles

Substance Use & Emotional Struggles

Individuals with substance use disorders alongside emotional struggles

Full-Program Support Needed

Full-Program Support Needed

Adults and teens needing structured, full-program support rather than partial

Why TruPaths Highlights Standard DBT

Emphasizing proven methods that empower long-term recovery

TruPaths highlights Standard DBT because it represents the gold standard of DBT care. It provides individuals with the most robust framework to build safety, stability, and resilience. Programs we feature integrate Standard DBT with trauma care, holistic practices, and addiction treatment to create a complete continuum of recovery.

FAQs about Standard DBT

Standard DBT includes individual therapy, coaching, and therapist consultation, offering deeper support than skills groups alone.
Yes. Many programs now offer the full DBT model online.
Typically 6–12 months, though some clients continue longer depending on progress and needs.
Often, yes. Standard DBT is covered as a psychotherapy service. TruPaths providers list accepted plans and financial options.
It is structured and intensive, but most participants find the level of support invaluable for recovery

Find Recovery Options Offering Standard DBT

Comprehensive support, real change. If you or a loved one needs structured care, Standard DBT offers the most complete path to safety and recovery.

Explore Programs Near You Talk to a Care Guide

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.