Dialectical behavior therapy is one of the most powerful forms of therapy for addiction treatment. It focuses on teaching participants how to regulate their emotions, tolerate distress, improve relationships, and manage impulsive behaviors. While DBT was originally developed to treat borderline personality disorder, it has been adapted for use in addiction recovery as well. At New Bridge Foundation®, we offer DBT and other evidence-based approaches that help clients develop the skills and tools necessary for lasting recovery. If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, call 866.772.8491 today to discover how we help clients find hope and healing.
The Basics of Dialectical Behavior Therapy
Dialectical behavior therapy is a type of cognitive-behavioral therapy that emphasizes acceptance and change. It’s based on the belief that individuals who struggle with addiction have difficulty regulating their emotions, leading to maladaptive behaviors like substance abuse. Through DBT, clients learn specific skills and strategies to help them manage intense emotions and develop more effective coping mechanisms.
DBT consists of two main components: individual counseling sessions and group skills training. In individual sessions, clients work one-on-one with a counselor to create treatment goals, discuss progress, and address any individual challenges or issues. In group skills training, clients learn practical skills in four main areas: mindfulness, emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness.
Mindfulness
Mindfulness is a key component of DBT and involves paying attention to the present moment without judgment. By practicing mindfulness, clients can become more aware of their thoughts and emotions as they arise. This awareness allows them to choose how to respond to these experiences rather than react automatically. Mindfulness exercises like deep breathing, body scans, and mindful meditation are all tools that help individuals develop this skill.
Emotion Regulation
Emotion regulation is an essential component of DBT, as poor emotional regulation skills often contribute to addictive behaviors. Clients learn how to identify and label emotions, reduce their vulnerability to strong emotions, and manage intense feelings in the moment. They also learn how to increase positive emotions and improve overall emotional well-being.
Distress Tolerance
Distress tolerance skills help individuals cope with stressful situations or overwhelming emotions without resorting to self-destructive behaviors like substance abuse. Clients learn how to tolerate distress and sit with uncomfortable feelings without trying to escape them.
Interpersonal Effectiveness
Interpersonal effectiveness is all about improving relationships and communication skills. Many people who struggle with addiction have difficulties in their relationships, whether it’s due to poor communication, codependency, or other issues. DBT teaches clients how to communicate effectively, set boundaries, and establish healthy relationships.
What to Expect in DBT Group
DBT group sessions typically follow a structured format, with each session focusing on a specific topic or skill. You can expect:
- A check-in – Group typically begins with a check-in so that the counselor can see how the group members are doing and to see if there are any specific issues or challenges that need to be addressed that day.
- Review of homework or skills – DBT often involves completing assignments outside of sessions, such as practicing mindfulness exercises or using emotion regulation techniques. The counselor may review these to gage progress.
- Learning a new skill – Each session will focus on teaching a new skill from one of the four main areas (mindfulness, emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness). The goal is to equip you with practical tools that you can use in everyday life.
Reach Out to New Bridge Foundation® for Dialectical Behavior Therapy and More
Voted one of the “Best Addiction Treatment Centers” in America four years in a row by Newsweek magazine, New Bridge Foundation® offers unparalleled and affordable professional addiction and co-occurring mental health treatment services. If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, call 866.772.8491 today or reach out online to learn more about our evidence-based treatment options, including dialectical behavior therapy. Recovery is possible, and we are here to help you every step of the way.
