Dialectical Behavior Therapy
Master life-changing skills for emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness in our intensive DBT program.
Understanding Dialectical Behavior Therapy
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) was developed by Dr. Marsha Linehan in the 1980s to treat individuals with borderline personality disorder who were not responding to traditional cognitive behavioral therapy. Since then, DBT has been validated for a wide range of conditions characterized by emotional intensity and difficulty regulating emotions.
The term "dialectical" refers to the therapeutic approach of holding two seemingly opposite ideas as both true—particularly the balance between acceptance and change. DBT therapists validate your current experiences and emotions while also teaching skills to help you create a life worth living.
At Algarve Wellness Retreats, our intensive DBT program provides all four components of comprehensive DBT: individual therapy, skills training groups, phone coaching, and a consultation team. The residential format allows for daily practice of skills in a supportive environment, accelerating your progress compared to traditional outpatient DBT.
Our DBT-trained therapists create a validating environment where you can learn to understand your emotions, tolerate distress without making things worse, and build meaningful relationships. The skills you learn become tools you can use for the rest of your life.
The Four DBT Modules
Mindfulness
Learn to be fully present, observe without judgment, and participate in the moment effectively
Distress Tolerance
Develop skills to survive crisis situations without making things worse
Emotion Regulation
Understand and manage intense emotions, reduce emotional vulnerability
Interpersonal Effectiveness
Navigate relationships, set boundaries, and communicate needs effectively
DBT Skills You'll Learn
Practical, evidence-based techniques for managing emotions and building a life worth living
Mindfulness
- Wise Mind
- Observe
- Describe
- Participate
- Non-Judgmental Stance
Distress Tolerance
- TIPP
- STOP
- Radical Acceptance
- Pros and Cons
- Self-Soothing
Emotion Regulation
- ABC PLEASE
- Opposite Action
- Check the Facts
- Problem Solving
Interpersonal
- DEAR MAN
- GIVE
- FAST
- Validation
- Boundary Setting
The Dialectical Philosophy
DBT is built on the understanding that two seemingly opposite things can both be true. You are doing the best you can, AND you need to do better. You can accept yourself as you are, AND you can change.
This balance between acceptance and change creates a powerful framework for transformation that feels validating rather than judgmental.
Conditions We Treat with DBT
DBT is effective for anyone struggling with emotional intensity, impulsivity, or relationship difficulties.
Our Intensive DBT Program
All four components of comprehensive DBT in an immersive residential setting
Individual Therapy
Daily one-on-one sessions with your primary DBT therapist to address your specific goals and challenges
Skills Training Groups
Daily group sessions to learn and practice DBT skills with guidance from trained facilitators
Phone Coaching
24/7 access to coaching support when you need help applying skills in difficult moments
Consultation Team
Our therapists meet regularly to ensure you receive the highest quality, coordinated care
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Programs & Treatments
Explore complementary therapies and programs that may support your healing journey
Build a Life Worth Living
Take the first step toward emotional balance and meaningful relationships. Our DBT specialists are ready to guide your transformation.