Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a type of therapy that treats borderline personality disorder (BPD). Although DBT was not created for individuals with autism, it may be helpful for some people with autism who also have co-occurring mental health conditions. However, it has since been adapted to treat various mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, substance use, and eating disorders.

Fundamentals of DBT & Autism

One of the critical features of DBT is that it emphasizes skill-building, focusing on teaching individuals how to regulate their emotions, communicate effectively, and manage interpersonal conflicts. These skills may be particularly beneficial for people with autism, who may struggle with social communication and emotional regulation.

Emotion regulation skills help individuals identify and manage their emotions healthily, and interpersonal effectiveness skills teach individuals to communicate effectively, set boundaries and develop healthy relationships. Mindfulness skills enable individuals to become more aware of the present moment and non-judgmentally observe their thoughts, emotions, and bodily sensations. Distress tolerance skills teach individuals to manage intense emotions healthily without resorting to self-destructive behavior.

For individuals with autism, who may struggle with social communication, emotional regulation, and managing stress, DBT can be helpful. For example, individuals with autism may have difficulty understanding and managing their emotions, which can lead to behaviors such as self-injury, aggression, or withdrawal. DBT can help individuals learn to identify and label their feelings and develop healthy ways of expressing and coping.

DBT can also help individuals with autism to develop better communication and interpersonal skills. This can be particularly important for individuals who struggle with social communication and may benefit from learning specific strategies for initiating and maintaining social interactions, reading social cues, and developing healthy relationships.

It is important to note that not all individuals with autism will benefit from DBT, and it is not a substitute for more specialized interventions that may be necessary to address the core features of autism. As with any treatment approach, it is vital to consider an individual's unique needs and circumstances and work with a qualified mental health professional to determine whether DBT is a good fit.

Practice DBT skills at Grouport

Want to practice dialectical behavior therapy in a supportive group setting? The Grouport DBT series by Grouport Therapy offers a 12-week program that can help you develop new skills to replace negative behaviors and emotions.

Our group meets once a week at a scheduled time, and you'll receive access to session links via email after enrolling and paying for the program. By joining our DBT skills group, you can improve relationships, manage anxiety, and reduce emotional suffering, regaining hope for the future.

Don't hesitate to take the first step towards a better life. Our next session is waiting for you. Join our Grouport DBT series today and start improving your mental health alongside a supportive group of individuals.

‍