Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT): A Wise Mind

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT):  A Wise Mind

DBT: Balancing Emotion & Reason for Better Mental Health

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) is a form of psychotherapy developed to help individuals with complex and challenging mental health conditions, such as borderline personality disorder. DBT psychotherapy focuses on a "wise mind," which is a state of mind that integrates and balances both emotional and rational thinking.

DBT aims to help individuals develop their "wise mind" to make better decisions, regulate their emotions, and improve their overall well-being. DBT can include individual therapy sessions, group skills training, and regular phone coaching.

Read on as we explore the concept of the "wise mind" in DBT and how it helps individuals improve their mental health and well-being. Whether you are seeking help for a mental health condition or simply looking to improve your overall quality of life, understanding the concept of a "wise mind" can be a valuable tool for personal growth and healing.

Latitude Wellness Vancouver offers Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) workshops for individuals looking to improve their mental health and well-being. 

What is Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)?

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) is a type of psychotherapy developed in the late 1980s by psychologist Marsha Linehan, as outlined in this article from the National Library of Medicine. It is a form of cognitive-behavioural therapy that combines individual and group therapy to help individuals with complex and challenging mental health conditions such as borderline personality disorder. 

DBT is the idea that people have the capacity for change and growth, but that change can be challenging to achieve because of conflicting emotions, thoughts, and behaviours. DBT aims to help individuals develop the skills to regulate their emotions, manage their behaviours, and improve their relationships with others.

DBT incorporates mindfulness, cognitive restructuring, and exposure therapy to help individuals better understand their emotions, thoughts, and behaviours and make positive life changes. Dialectical Behaviour Therapy also focuses on building social support, improving communication skills, and developing a sense of self-worth and self-acceptance.

The Concept of "Wise Mind" in DBT

A "wise mind" is one of the core ideas in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT). It refers to a state of mind that integrates and balances emotional and rational thinking. A "Wise mind" is seen as the ideal state of mind because it allows individuals to make well-informed decisions, regulate their emotions, and improve their overall well-being.

In DBT, the concept of the "wise mind" is seen as the balance between two other states of mind: the emotional mind and the rational mind. The emotional mind highlights intense, irrational feelings, while the sound mind focuses on logical thought and problem-solving. Of course, neither state of mind are inherently wrong, but both can be problematic if the "wise mind does not balance them."

DBT aims to help individuals develop their "wise mind" to make better decisions, regulate their emotions, and improve their overall well-being. Dialectical Behaviour Therapy combines individual therapy sessions, group skills training, and phone coaching.

By developing their "wise mind," individuals can learn to integrate their emotions and thoughts healthily and effectively. Results show that DBT can help them make better decisions, improve their relationships with others, and lead more fulfilling lives.

A wise mind - Dialectical Behaviour Therapy - DBT info graphic

The Importance of Balancing Emotion and Reason in Mental Health

Balancing emotion and reason is crucial for maintaining good mental health. Emotions are essential to our lives and shape our thoughts, behaviours, and relationships. When emotions become overpowering, they can cause problems. Relying on logic can lead to a lack of empathy and an inability to connect with others.

When emotions and reason are balanced, individuals are better equipped to make informed decisions, regulate emotions, and have healthy relationships. However, an imbalance between the two can lead to various mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and impulsive behaviour.

For example, individuals in an "emotional mind" state may make decisions based on their feelings without considering the consequences. DBT can lead to impulsive behaviours and poor decision-making. On the other hand, individuals in a "rational mind" state may struggle to connect with others and may lack empathy.

Balancing emotion and reason is essential for good mental health because it allows individuals to make informed decisions, regulate emotions, and maintain healthy relationships. By developing their "wise mind," individuals can learn to integrate their feelings and thoughts healthily and effectively. As a result, DBT can help them improve their mental health and lead more fulfilling lives.

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The Process of Developing a Wise Mind with DBT

In DBT, the concept of a "wise mind" is developed through individual therapy, group skills training, and phone coaching. This holistic approach helps individuals understand and regulate their emotions, improve relationships, and lead more fulfilling lives. By learning to balance their emotions and reason, individuals can develop their "wise minds" and achieve excellent mental health and well-being.

Individual Therapy: In individual therapy sessions, individuals work with their therapist to identify and change problematic behaviours and thoughts. The therapist helps them understand their emotions and teaches them new coping skills to regulate them. The therapist also allows them to understand their "wise mind better."

Group Skills Training: In group skills training, individuals learn new coping skills to manage their emotions and improve their relationships with others. They also have the opportunity to practice using these skills in a supportive and non-judgmental environment. In addition, dialectical Behaviour Therapy helps them develop their "wise mind" and balance their emotions and reason.

Phone Coaching: Phone coaching is another aspect of DBT and helps individuals to apply the skills they have learned in therapy and group skills training to real-life situations. The coach allows individuals to practice their skills and provides support and guidance in managing difficult situations. This coaching will enable individuals to develop their "wise minds" and make better decisions.

Latitude Wellness - Latitude Counselling - Dialectical Behaviour therapy - DBT -  vancovuer

DBT Workshops with Latitude Wellness Vancouver

Latitude Wellness DBT workshops provide individuals with a comprehensive understanding of the DBT approach, including the concept of a "wise mind" and how it relates to emotional regulation and mindfulness. 

DBT group therapy and workshops are led by experienced and qualified registered clinical counsellors who use evidence-based techniques to help individuals develop the skills to manage their emotions, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve their relationships. Latitude Wellness workshops are an excellent opportunity for individuals to gain insights and practical tools to support their mental health journey and achieve greater well-being.

Check out the following link for more information about Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) workshops at Latitude Wellness.


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Latitude Wellness Vancouver

Latitude Wellness is an integrated multidisciplinary wellness clinic located in Vancouver, British Columbia. The clinic offers a range of services designed to help individuals achieve and maintain optimal health, including chiropractic care, acupuncture, physiotherapy, pelvic floor physiotherapy and counselling (online and in-person). 

Our team at Latitude Wellness is dedicated to providing high-quality, personalized care to help their patients achieve their health and wellness goals.

Latitude Wellness is located at #401 - 815 Hornby Street, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2E6

If you are interested in exploring the benefits of an integrated wellness center, contact our office and to book an appointment or answer any questions you may have. We provide you with a welcoming, safe and supportive environment, so you can take the first steps towards a healthier and happier you. We look forward to welcoming you to Latitude Wellness.

To book an appointment, please call the office at 778-899-1195 or visit our online booking site.


A bit about the author

Lauren Legere is a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) & Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC), and the Co-Founder of Latitude Wellness.

Lauren specializes in Relationships, Trauma, Anxiety, Professional Burnout and Personal Growth.

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