Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) for Substance Use at Wellbridge

What is Dialectical Behavior Therapy?

Dialectical Behavior Therapy is a form of psychotherapy that was originally developed to treat individuals with borderline personality disorder (BPD).[2] However, it has since been adapted and proven effective for a wide range of mental health conditions, including substance use disorders, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, and more.[3]

DBT is characterized by its integration of various therapeutic techniques, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness practices. It operates on the premise that people struggling with emotional dysregulation often lack the skills necessary to cope with intense emotions, leading to maladaptive behaviors such as substance abuse, self-harm, or impulsive actions.[4]

One of the core components of DBT is skills training, where you’ll learn strategies to manage your emotions better, improve interpersonal relationships, tolerate distress, and regulate your behavior.[5] These skills are taught in group settings and focus on four main areas: mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, emotion regulation, and distress tolerance.

What Can Dialectical Behavior Therapy Help With?

DBT has demonstrated effectiveness in addressing a wide range of behavioral health challenges, including addiction and co-occurring issues such as:[6]

• Substance use disorder: DBT offers those struggling with substance use disorder a structured approach to develop coping skills and manage cravings. By incorporating mindfulness practices, individuals learn to observe their thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations without judgment, which can help them tolerate distress without turning to substances. DBT’s emphasis on emotion regulation helps people with strategies to identify triggers, regulate intense emotions, and respond adaptively to cravings. Additionally, interpersonal effectiveness skills teach you how to navigate social situations and relationships without resorting to substance use as a coping mechanism.
• Co-occurring mental health disorders: Many people with substance use disorders also experience co-occurring mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, or trauma-related disorders. DBT addresses these issues by providing tools for managing symptoms and improving overall emotional well-being. By integrating DBT with other evidence-based treatments, such as trauma-informed therapy, patients can receive comprehensive care that addresses both their substance use and co-occurring mental health concerns.
• Impulsivity and risky behaviors: Individuals with substance use disorder often struggle with impulsivity and engaging in risky behaviors. DBT helps individuals increase their awareness of impulsive urges and develop alternative responses that align with their long-term goals. By teaching distress tolerance skills, DBT enables individuals to manage crises without resorting to harmful behaviors. The emphasis on dialectics encourages individuals to find a balance between acceptance and change, fostering a sense of agency and empowerment in making healthier choices.
• Relapse Prevention: DBT helps you learn the skills and strategies needed to prevent relapse and maintain long-term sobriety. Through ongoing skills training and support, individuals learn to identify early warning signs of relapse, implement coping strategies, and build a strong support network. DBT also emphasizes the importance of self-care and creating a life worth living, encouraging individuals to cultivate meaningful activities and connections that support their recovery journey.

What Are the Benefits of Dialectical Behavior Therapy?

DBT offers a range of benefits for those struggling with a substance use disorder and co-occurring issues such as:[7]

• Effective treatment for multiple disorders: DBT has been extensively researched and shown to be effective in treating a wide range of mental health disorders, including borderline personality disorder (BPD), substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Its adaptable nature allows it to be tailored to the specific needs of each individual, making it a versatile treatment option.
• Skill development: One of the central components of DBT is skills training, where individuals learn practical strategies to manage their emotions, cope with distress, improve interpersonal relationships, and regulate behavior. These skills, such as mindfulness, emotion regulation, interpersonal effectiveness, and distress tolerance, empower individuals to navigate life’s challenges more effectively and make healthier choices.
• Enhanced emotional regulation: DBT helps individuals develop greater awareness and understanding of their emotions and the ability to regulate them effectively. By learning to identify triggers, tolerate distress, and respond adaptively to emotional cues, individuals can reduce impulsive behaviors, manage cravings, and prevent relapse.
• Improved interpersonal relationships: DBT focuses on improving interpersonal effectiveness, teaching individuals how to communicate assertively, set boundaries, and navigate conflicts in relationships. By enhancing communication skills and building healthier relationships, individuals can experience greater social support and a sense of connection, which are crucial factors in recovery.
• Empowerment and self-efficacy: DBT emphasizes the importance of personal agency and empowerment, encouraging individuals to take an active role in their treatment and recovery journey. Through collaborative goal-setting, problem-solving, and skill-building exercises, individuals gain a sense of mastery over their lives and confidence in their ability to cope with challenges.

How and Why Dialectical Behavior Therapy Works

Dialectical Behavior Therapy has garnered significant attention in the field of mental health and substance use disorder treatment due to its demonstrated efficacy in addressing a wide range of disorders, including substance abuse, borderline personality disorder (BPD), and co-occurring issues. The success of DBT can be attributed to its multifaceted approach, which combines cognitive-behavioral techniques, mindfulness practices, dialectics, and skills training to promote healing and recovery.

Research has consistently shown that DBT produces positive outcomes for individuals across various demographic groups and clinical presentations. Studies investigating the effectiveness of DBT for substance use disorders have reported reductions in substance use, cravings, and related psychosocial problems.[8] Additionally, DBT emphasizes the importance of validation and acceptance, creating a supportive therapeutic environment where individuals feel heard, understood, and empowered to make positive changes.

What to Expect With Dialectical Behavior Therapy

At Wellbridge, you can expect a comprehensive and personalized approach to DBT for substance abuse that prioritizes your unique needs and goals. We offer a supportive and nurturing environment where you can explore your emotions, learn new coping skills, and build a strong foundation for lasting change.

Through a combination of evidence-based therapies, holistic modalities, and compassionate care, Wellbridge empowers individuals to overcome obstacles, cultivate resilience, and create a life filled with meaning and purpose.