DBT PE
for PTSD
What is DBT PE?
DBT PE (the DBT Prolonged Exposure Protocol for PTSD) is a highly specialized approach to treating trauma and PTSD for people who struggle with multiple, severe, or complex problems, including those who self-harm or experience suicidal thoughts. Research has found DBT PE to be effective in helping people recover from PTSD as well as other problems that are often associated with trauma such as depression, trauma-related guilt, and shame.
How DBT PE Works
Comprehensive DBT
DBT PE integrates Prolonged Exposure for PTSD into standard DBT treatment. If DBT PE is recommended for you, you would participate in our comprehensive DBT program, focusing first on safety and stability before beginning to work more directly on trauma.
DBT Skills
Prolonged Exposure
Who DBT PE Can Help
People who have not benefited from other trauma treatments
If you have not found relief from other PTSD treatments or have found it challenging to engage in these therapies, you may respond well to the comprehensive and structured approach of DBT PE. DBT PE addresses multiple aspects of your mental health as well as factors that can interfere with benefiting from trauma-focused treatment.
People with PTSD and additional problems
Trauma can cause or worsen a wide range of emotional, behavioral, and psychological issues. Additionally, co-occurring problems can complicate standard treatment for PTSD. If you have Borderline Personality Disorder, struggle with dissociative symptoms or panic attacks, or use alcohol or drugs to cope with the effects of trauma, the integration of DBT skills and trauma-focused treatment can help.
People with PTSD who experience suicidal thoughts or self-harm
If you struggle with suicidal thoughts, self-harm, or suicidal behaviors, DBT PE is specifically designed to help reduce these and allow you to safely participate in trauma-focused treatment. The skills learned in DBT can help you cope when urges to engage in these behaviors arise, as well as to manage the emotions that often come up when processing trauma.
People with severe or complex PTSD
If you have experienced multiple traumatic events or complex trauma, or struggle with severe symptoms of PTSD, the structured, supportive, and integrative approach of DBT PE can help.