Considerations for the Use of Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Individuals Experiencing Oppression

As the popularity of dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) grows, so does its use with increasingly diverse groups of clients. In this article, we demonstrate that DBT in its standard form can incorporate the sequelae of oppression as a target of treatment by providing clients with skills to identify oppression and its impact while responding effectively. To support the use of DBT with individuals experiencing emotion/behavior dysregulation and oppression, we review how each of the primary strategies of DBT can be used within the context of oppression. Specifically, we discuss how dialectical philosophy, the acceptance/change dialectic, communication strategies, and case management strategies can be viewed through an oppression lens. A brief review of DBT research with historically oppressed populations and common pitfalls in treating oppressed individuals is presented. As research in examining and adapting DBT for minoritized groups continues to catch up to clinical need, guidance is presented here for researchers and clinicians interested in using this empirically supported treatment in communities that experience oppression.