Outcomes of brief versions of Dialectical Behaviour Therapy for diagnostically heterogeneous groups in a routine care setting. (17th February 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Seow, Lillian L. Y.; Collins, Khan R.L.; Page, Andrew C.; Hooke, Geoff R.
• Is Part Of: Psychotherapy research. Volume 32:Number 2(2022)
• Page Start: 179
• Page End: 194
• Publication Date: 2022-02-17
• Subjects: brief psychotherapy -- outcome research; Psychotherapy -- Periodicals; Psychotherapy -- Research -- Periodicals; Psychotherapy -- Periodicals; Psychothérapie -- Périodiques; Psychothérapie -- Recherche -- Périodiques; 616.891405
• DOI: 10.1080/10503307.2021.1933240
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1050-3307

Abstract

Abstract: Introduction: Brief versions of Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) may enhance patient outcomes in diverse service settings. This study examined the effectiveness of two DBT-informed treatments for diagnostically heterogeneous groups in routine practice: 5-day group training in DBT skills (DBT-5) and a 12-week DBT program (DBT-12). Methods: : Depression, anxiety, stress, borderline symptoms, self-esteem, and general mental wellbeing were measured at pre-and post-treatment in a sample of inpatients and outpatients ( N =395). Rates of clinically significant change on these measures were calculated and effect sizes benchmarked against prior DBT outcome studies. Readmission rates were used to measure treatment response maintenance. Results: : Scores on all measures improved significantly from pre- to post-treatment. DBT-5 and DBT-12 yielded similar effect sizes compared to prior DBT outcome studies. At least 43.5% of patients were classified as recovered or improved regarding borderline symptoms at the end of both DBT-5 and DBT-12. Readmission rates were also low (5%–6.8%). Conclusions: Brief DBT-informed treatments may offer a fast reduction in symptoms and quicker return to functioning.