Service user experience of adapted dialectical behaviour therapy in a community adult mental health setting

Abstract

Background

Dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), a skill-based cognitive behavioural treatment, is increasingly used in the treatment of borderline personality disorder (BPD).

Aims

The study examined service users' perspective on the effectiveness of an adapted DBT programme, delivered within a community adult mental health setting.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews and focus groups were conducted with eight participants with a diagnosis of BPD about their experience of the programme.

Results

Thematic analysis focused on two key themes: evaluation of therapy and treatment impact. Therapy-specific factors and personal challenges emerged as important themes. Treatment impact raised issues relating to a renewed sense of identity and changes in daily life.

Conclusions

The study describes the positive and negative experiences of service users with BPD attending an adapted DBT programme.

Keywords:

• borderline personality disorder
• dialectical behaviour therapy
• service user experience

Acknowledgements

The authors wish to thank Colin Johnston, Geraldine Smallwood, Elizabeth Gregan,

Siobhan Smith, Marie O' Gara and Veronica Brady for facilitating the programme; the service users for contributing to this research and the multidisciplinary adult mental health team for their support.

Declaration of Interest: None.