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How long does a typical Dialectical Behavior Therapy session last?

Burns Libbie

Hey there! From my experience, a typical Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) session lasts about an hour. But of course, this can vary depending on the therapist and the individual's needs. Sometimes there may be group therapy sessions which can be longer. But I think in general, an hour is the standard for individual DBT therapy. The sessions usually consist of a mix of talk therapy and skills training, where the therapist helps you learn strategies to manage difficult emotions and relationships. It can be pretty intense, but super helpful if you're dealing with things like anxiety, depression, or borderline personality disorder. Honestly, I think the hour goes by pretty quickly because there's so much ground to cover, but it can also feel like a lot to process.

Some therapists might recommend weekly sessions for a few months, and then gradually reduce the frequency as progress is made. Others might suggest ongoing weekly or bi-weekly sessions as part of a maintenance plan. It all really depends on your individual needs and goals. DBT is definitely one of the more structured forms of therapy out there, but I think that's actually a good thing because it helps you stay focused on specific areas for improvement.

Overall, I've found DBT to be a really effective tool for dealing with intense emotions and building healthier relationships. If you're considering DBT or any type of therapy, I'd highly recommend giving it a try!