Adaptations of Dialectical Behavior Therapy in Asia: Research Findings and Clinical Considerations

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) has gained increasing attention in Asia as a principle-driven, evidence-based treatment that can be flexibly adapted to local contexts. This talk will draw on studies on DBT in different settings (e.g., Taiwan, Malaysia, and Nepal) to illustrate the range of approaches to DBT adaptation, from implementation of adherent DBT, to skills group applications in urban populations, to ground-up adaptations in rural, low-literacy communities. Key themes include balancing treatment fidelity with cultural sensitivity, aligning interventions with local values and resources, and considering implications for training and research. Broader clinical and institutional challenges, as well as lessons learned for future adaptation efforts in the region, will also be discussed.