Dialectical Behavioral Therapy

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy

Conditions like mental health and substance use disorders require therapeutic methods and treatment, such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). This therapy is an evidence-based psychotherapy developed by psychologist Dr. Marsha Linehan in the early 1970s. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and DBT are often associated with one another, but they have distinct differences. Sunshine Care Centers offer both forms of treatment to assess your specific needs and design the appropriate treatment plan to help you reach your recovery goals. 

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy for Addiction

What is Dialectical Behavior Therapy for substance abuse? Specifically, DBT benefits those who are suffering from substance abuse disorder. During a dialectical behavioral session, an addict will learn the necessary skills to apply to daily living to regulate emotions and stress and combat cravings positively. Licensed therapists use feedback coaching and storytelling methods so patients can be mindful of the practices and feel motivated to use the new skills.

If you are wondering how DBT addiction treatment works, you must understand these four crucial components. 

  • Individual Therapy: Dialectical behavior therapy requires both individual and group treatment. During an individual treatment, a patient and professional sit one-on-one. A patient can ask questions without feeling the pressure of a group setting, learning the skills needed to manage triggering situations outside rehab. 
  • Group Training: Our Intensive Outpatient program understands the importance of a support group, and during group skill sessions, we practice speaking in a comfortable and clean environment. Building a team of people who may relate to your struggles or can offer their support is a beneficial experience, especially while practicing new skills together. 
  • Consultation by Therapists: Highly trained individuals will meet and discuss the practices and methods used and how the patients excel. If a patient is overly stressed, suicidal, or displaying severe depressive episodes, our licensed therapists will work together to problem-solve and deliver the necessary precautions to help the patient. 
  • Phone Coaching: Phone coaching is an excellent form of communication since patients may not always be able to make it into the facility. If a patient feels overwhelmed or is experiencing intense cravings, they may call their therapist, who can guide them through the processes and methods learned to avoid relapsing. 

 

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy Benefits

For people with co-occurring disorders such as mental health and substance abuse disorders, DBT provides a new approach to treatment. Through various techniques, patients will learn mindfulness, how to better relationships or interpersonal skills, and how to recognize and accept both negative and positive emotions. Regulating emotions and gaining self-confidence through the process motivates patients to sustain sobriety. These learning skills are highly advantageous and supported at Sunshine Care Centers.

Recovery at Sunshine Care Centers

At Sunshine Care Centers, we are committed to designing a treatment plan that works best for you. Our team of medical professionals is prepared to guide you through the treatment process. If you or a loved one is battling mental stress or addiction, we are ready to help you get started on the road to recovery. We understand that people experience certain disorders differently, which is why we offer various methods to help.

If you or a loved one are looking for more information, check out our resources page so we can answer your questions and get you started. Better yet, contact us now, and a medical team member will speak with you.