Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for Substance Abuse

Mindfulness skills focus on awareness and acceptance of the present moment. We practice techniques like meditation, yoga, and deep breathing to increase awareness of our thoughts and feelings without judgment. Mindfulness helps reduce negative thoughts and cravings, decrease distressing emotions, and increase self-control.

Distress tolerance skills teach you how to cope with painful emotions and situations in healthy ways. We learn strategies to accept and tolerate distress rather than avoid it through substance use. Skills include distraction, self-soothing, and thinking of the pros and cons of tolerating distress. The goal is to avoid impulsive behaviors and buy time until intense emotions pass.

Emotion regulation skills help you manage emotional reactions flexibly and functionally. We work to understand the relationship between our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Then we can choose how we want to respond, rather than reacting impulsively. Skills involve learning to identify emotions, understand their effects, and modify them. The goal is to decrease emotional vulnerability and reactivity.

Interpersonal effectiveness skills focus on building and maintaining healthy relationships. We practice assertiveness, setting boundaries, and resolving conflicts constructively. The skills teach you how to meet your own needs while also respecting the needs of others. Strong relationships are key to recovery, so interpersonal effectiveness is an important part of DBT.

DBT helps individuals improve emotional regulation, reducing their reliance on substances for emotional relief.

By promoting behavioral change and mindfulness, DBT fosters resilience in challenging situations, reducing the likelihood of relapse.

The focus on enhancing emotional regulation and mindfulness in DBT contributes to reducing impulsive actions, a key factor in addiction recovery.

Self-validation, a core aspect of DBT, encourages a positive self-image, which is crucial for sustaining long-term recovery from addiction.

DBT addresses problematic behaviors, aiding individuals in developing adaptive and healthier habits as they navigate the challenges of recovery.

Through enhancing interpersonal effectiveness, individuals in DBT learn communication and relationship skills, which are vital for building a supportive network during recovery.

The mindfulness training in DBT cultivates awareness, helping individuals gain better control over their thoughts and feelings, thereby fostering self-awareness.

DBT emphasizes validation, creating a supportive environment where individuals’ experiences are acknowledged. This contributes to a sense of acceptance that is crucial for recovery.

The dialectical approach of DBT encourages individuals to accept their current circumstances while actively working towards positive changes, facilitating a balanced approach to recovery.

DBT equips individuals with skills to cope with distress and high-stress situations without resorting to destructive behaviors, a fundamental aspect of addiction recovery.

Through the acquisition of skills and behavioral change, individuals in DBT work towards building greater self-respect and confidence in their ability to navigate life’s challenges.

The comprehensive nature of DBT, incorporating individual therapy, group skills training, and supportive elements, provides a holistic approach for individuals seeking recovery from addiction.

Familiarize yourself with the principles and techniques of DBT. Read relevant books, articles, or online resources to gain a basic understanding of the approach.

Locate a therapist who is trained and experienced in delivering DBT. Look for mental health professionals, psychologists, or counselors with specific expertise in this therapeutic modality.

Schedule an initial assessment with a qualified DBT therapist. During this session, discuss your mental health concerns, goals, and expectations. The therapist will assess whether DBT is a suitable approach for your needs.

Engage in individual therapy sessions with your DBT therapist. These sessions typically focus on addressing specific issues, building skills, and exploring personal challenges.

Participate in DBT group skills training sessions. These group sessions provide a structured environment to learn and practice the key skills emphasized in DBT, such as mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness.

Commit to regular attendance at both individual and group sessions. Consistency is crucial for the effectiveness of DBT, as it involves ongoing skill-building and therapeutic support.

Expect to receive homework assignments and practice DBT skills between sessions. Application of these skills in daily life is a fundamental aspect of therapy.

Some DBT therapists offer phone coaching between sessions for additional support during challenging moments. Discuss the availability of phone coaching with your therapist.

Collaborate with your therapist to set realistic and achievable goals. Establish short-term and long-term objectives to guide your progress in therapy.

Approach DBT with an open mind and a willingness to collaborate with your therapist. Active participation and communication are essential for the success of the therapeutic process.

Periodically, review your progress with your therapist. Adjust goals and strategies as needed to ensure that the therapy remains effective and aligned with your evolving needs.

Remember that dialectical behavior therapy is a structured and comprehensive approach, and progress often takes time. Stay committed to the process, and communicate openly with your therapist to make the most of your DBT experience.