ABSTRACT
CBT has evolved and continues to evolve rapidly. This chapter covers the integration of Socratic strategies with newer developments in the field involving third-wave cognitive behavioral therapy generally, and dialectical behavior therapy specifically. Specific examples and suggestions are made to the standard DBT therapist for the seamless integration of these procedures into their work. A common difficulty to using cognitive strategies for clients who need DBT is that they have a high level of emotion dysregulation which can make the process difficult for clinicians who do not know how to handle this presentation. This chapter will focus on using DBT strategies like emotion regulation training and the behavioral chain analysis to create the necessary conditions for the effective use of Socratic strategies. This chapter summarized Socratic strategies for working with a population that has borderline personality disorder from a DBT framework. Skills and strategies that have been presented are consistent with the DBT model and are configured in a manner to maximize the potential for successful Socratic strategies. All Socratic strategies presented are grounded in behavioral therapy and focus on fostering behavior change. New skills such as the Cognitive Chain Analysis and Socratic Dialectical Method Thought Record use DBT components and are demonstrated with clinical examples. Key elements for working with this population include using regulation strategies prior to cognitive strategies, and then connecting the outcome of the Socratic evaluation to behavior change.
