What is the rationale for the use of diary cards in individual DBT therapy?

The use of diary cards in individual DBT therapy serves multiple important purposes, making the rationale for their use multi-faceted.

Firstly, diary cards are instrumental in tracking progress over time. They allow clients to consistently monitor their emotions, behaviors, and skills used, providing a structured way to reflect on how they've been managing their challenges. This tracking can highlight patterns and trends, helping both the client and therapist to identify areas that may need more focus in therapy.

Secondly, diary cards can serve as a motivational tool for clients. By writing down their experiences and seeing their successes, even small ones, clients can build a sense of accomplishment and hope. This motivation can lead to increased engagement during therapy sessions, as clients come prepared to discuss their reflections and progress.

Additionally, diary cards can facilitate communication between clients and their family members. When clients share their diary cards with loved ones, it can help to foster understanding about their experiences and the skills they are working on in therapy. This open line of communication can enhance support from family members, which is often a crucial component of the therapeutic process.

These combined functions illustrate why the use of diary cards is such a valuable tool in DBT, encompassing progress tracking, client motivation, and family communication all in one.