Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

What is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)?

Originally developed by psychologist Dr. Marsha Linehan in the 1980s, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) was first used to help individuals with extreme mental health conditions—including borderline personality disorder—and suicidal ideations. Since then, research has discovered DBT to be impactful in treating substance abuse and addiction.

While similar to CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), DBT takes things a step further. Beyond changing behavior, DBT focuses on accepting uncomfortable or negative emotions. In fact, the term “dialectical” refers to finding a balance between two opposing ideas—accepting yourself as you are while striving for positive change. This type of therapy can also be particularly useful for those struggling with co-occurring mental health conditions.

Through individual and group therapy, DBT teaches:

• Mindfulness
• Emotional regulation
• Interpersonal effectiveness
• Distress tolerance

At Freedom Recovery Centers (FRC), we believe in the power of DBT to address emotional dysregulation and impulsive behaviors often associated with addiction. DBT can be transformative, paving your way toward long-term recovery.

With the FRC team, we’ll create a personalized treatment plan to address your unique needs. This plan may include DBT, CBT, motivational interviewing, life skills development, health and wellness strategies, our 12-step facilitation therapies, and more. Together, we can help you achieve success and finally break the chains of addiction once and for all.

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Benefits of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for Addiction Recovery

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) allows you to change your behavior and accept uncomfortable feelings. This gives way to various benefits, including:

Improved Emotional Regulation

Substance abuse may arise as a way to cope with difficult emotions—or avoid them altogether. DBT helps you break this cycle by guiding you toward understanding and managing these emotional triggers. In turn, you face less stress and fewer cravings, which can lead to success on your recovery journey.

Better Distress Tolerance

Unfortunately, life is full of ups and downs. Substance use may seem like an easy route to cope with distressing life events. However, these harmful behaviors can lead down a slippery slope. With DBT, you learn to better tolerate distressing emotions or situations without resorting to substance abuse.

Improved Mindfulness

Mindfulness has many benefits—both physically and emotionally. In terms of DBT, mindfulness teaches you awareness of the present moment. This can help you make intentional decisions and avoid impulsive reactions, ultimately supporting your recovery.

Reduced Risk of Relapse

At FRC, we are committed to your long-term recovery. This means we employ therapies, like DBT, that contribute to your success down the road. DBT significantly reduces the risk of relapse by addressing behaviors and emotions that lead to substance abuse.

Development of Healthy Coping Mechanisms

Through DBT, you’ll learn healthy coping mechanisms, such as mindfulness, deep breathing, and positive self-talk. These tools empower you to stick with your sobriety and deal with any difficult situations that arise without resorting to substance abuse.

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Why Choose Freedom Recovery Centers

It’s never too late to get the help you deserve. The FRC team is ready to answer your call 24/7, helping you take that first courageous step forward. We welcome everyone to our addiction center, ensuring you get the care you need to overcome the complexities of addiction.

Our treatment center goes beyond the traditional approach. Alongside traditional addiction treatments, we also offer holistic remedies—ensuring we tackle your addiction from every angle. Our addiction center in Richmond, Virginia also offers good food, comfortable beds, a massage clinic, a nail studio, a gym, basketball courts, and more. After all, your recovery isn’t just about getting to the root of your addiction. It’s also about rediscovering your sense of purpose and joy.

Our team is by your side throughout your recovery, starting with your initial detox. We provide 24/7 medical supervision in this initial stage, offering help to manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings. Beyond this, each treatment plan is tailored to each person’s needs and goals. Your treatment may include DBT and other therapies, helping pave your way toward meaningful and lasting change.

Discover the Transformative Power of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Today

Recovery is entirely possible. It all starts with taking that very first step. Our caring and compassionate team is here to help; call us today to open the door to a new life—one filled with meaning, passion, connection, and purpose.

FAQs

Can DBT be used for addiction?

DBT has been shown to be effective in helping individuals overcome addiction. It can be particularly helpful for those who also suffer from other mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety.

Is CBT or DBT better for addiction?

Both CBT and DBT are effective addiction treatments. However, the effectiveness may vary from individual to individual. Often, our treatment programs include a combination of the two, helping address your addiction from all angles.

Who is DBT not recommended for?

Generally, DBT isn’t suitable for those with intellectual disabilities or schizophrenia. It may also vary in effectiveness for other conditions, like obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). At FRC, your team will work with you to determine if DBT is right for you.

What is the DBT model of addiction?

DBT is a psychotherapy that teaches individuals to change their behavior and manage or accept their emotions associated with addiction. It incorporates mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, distress tolerance, and emotional regulation. This can help overcome addiction, as well as prevent relapse.

Is DBT a type of CBT?

Yes, DBT is a type of CBT. DBT, however, may go beyond traditional CBT by addressing particularly difficult or intense emotions.