My question is, why if you are bipolar, are you taking DBT? CBT would be more appropriate.

DBT (Dialectical Behaviour Therapy) is specifically designed as therapy for behaviour disorders. On the otherhand, CBT (Cognitive Behaviour Therapy) is focused upon mood disorders including bipolar.

My other question is about the nature of the program you are taking. Is this through a therapist/psychiatrist or have you decided on a self-help format?

Both DBT and CBT can be very successful - as long as you take the work involved seriously. This means completeing the assignments to heart - completing them on a daily basis. If people find the therapy unsuccessful it is often a result of not doing the daily work. In the same vein, one must incorporate the work as a lifestyle. The work doesn't end just because the therapy comes to an end. I myself gradually fell off doing so - and my anxiety and depression gradually returned. i am revisiting CBT via a self help book and have noticed an immediate improvement.

Whichever you do study, good luck!