Acceptance and Change

Abstract

Both dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) include training in mindfulness skills and address the synthesis of acceptance and change. DBT is a comprehensive treatment for borderline personality disorder (BPD). MBCT was developed for prevention of relapse in individuals with a history of depressive episodes. Both have considerable empirical support for their efficacy. Many individuals with BPD also suffer from depressive episodes, which can interfere with motivation to participate in DBT. In such cases, it may be helpful to integrate strategies designed to prevent recurrence of depressive episodes. This case study describes integration of MBCT into ongoing DBT in the treatment of an individual with BPD and a history of depressive episodes. Findings suggest that MBCT can be successfully integrated into ongoing DBT in cases in which prevention of depressive episodes is an important goal. Findings also suggest that mindfulness skills may be very helpful in enhancing the efficacy of traditional cognitive-behavioral treatment approaches.