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Shelley Dahl, MS, LMFT is a family therapist in Moorhead, MN specializing in family therapy.
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Dialectical Behavior Therapy
Dialectical behavior therapy, or DBT, is a form of cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) that was originally developed to help the most severely mentally ill and depressed patients accept therapy. It relies on the same concept in CBT that examines the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and actions, but in DBT the emphasis is first on acceptance rather than change. There is also an emphasis on mindfulness, 'being in the moment,' and relaxation techniques such as yoga. These are combined with a great deal of validation and encouragement from the therapist.
The word 'dialectical' means acting through opposing forces, and this word refers to a few different opposing concepts in DBT:
Dialectical behavior therapy was developed when therapists attempting to use CBT techniques on the most seriously ill patients ran into a problem. When they suggested that a patient change their thoughts, these very vulnerable patients would become overwhelmed and turn aggressive or suicidal. DBT was developed to support these patients with acceptance and validation while still guiding them towards changing problematic thoughts. Although also used for suicidal and self-harming patients today, these days, DBT is mainly used to treat borderline personality disorder. It is one of the few effective interventions for this serious illness.
DBT has been shown to be very effective at reducing self-destructive behavior. It can also be used to teach new coping skills and increase a patient's self-esteem and motivation to become healthier.
Sex Therapy
Sex therapy is, in essence, a form of psychotherapy that is specifically focused on the emotional and behavioral issues around human sexuality. Although sex therapists often work closely with medical doctors, sex therapy does not address medical issues, which are usually treated by a gynecologist or urologist. Sex therapists never engage in sexual activity with their patients. They are counselors that help individuals or couples resolve their emotional or communication issues about sex.
Some of the problems that a person might see a sex therapist for include:
During sex therapy, individuals or couples will talk about their sexual issue and their background. It is common to be given exercises to work on outside of therapy to improve communication, intimacy, or physical response. Sometimes these exercises bring up strong emotions, and then those emotions can be discussed during therapy. The goals of sex therapy are usually to obtain reliable information about sex, to improve verbal and physical communication between a couple, and to improve sexual performance.
Because of the nature of sex therapy and how vulnerable it makes most patients feel to discuss their sex life, it is extremely important to choose a sex therapist wisely. Referrals can usually be obtained via physicians or clergy, but it is also important to seek a credentialed therapist. The American Association of Sex Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT) offers certification to sex therapists, which ensures proper training and education, as well as a strict code of ethics.
She is certified by the Sex Therapist, American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT) and has a state license in Minnesota.
Board Certification: Sex Therapist, American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT)
Licensed In: Minnesota
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Ms. Shelley Dahl's specialty is family therapy. She is especially interested in dialectical behavior therapy and sex therapy.
