What strategy is primarily used to address crises in DBT?

The strategy primarily used to address crises in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is applying Distress Tolerance skills. This approach is designed to help individuals manage and cope with intense emotions or situations that feel overwhelming. Distress Tolerance skills teach clients how to tolerate and survive in the face of crisis without resorting to harmful behaviors.

These skills include techniques such as self-soothing, distraction, and improving the moment, which provide immediate support to individuals facing distressing circumstances. By focusing on acceptance of the current situation and managing emotional pain, DBT empowers clients to navigate through crises effectively.

Other strategies mentioned, such as encouraging emotional expression, may be valuable in different contexts but are not the primary focus for immediate crisis management. Ignoring the crisis can lead to escalation and harm, and redirecting to past positive experiences might not address the immediate needs of someone in distress, making those options less effective in crisis situations.