Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is one of the most effective treatments in addiction rehab. An off-shoot of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), DBT was originally developed to treat people with borderline personality disorders, as it is highly effective for emotional regulation. Since then, its use has been expanded to treat a range of mental health disorders and substance use disorders. The benefits of dialectical behavior therapy are many. As a result, at Pennsylvania Adult and Teen Challenge, we are pleased to offer this evidence-based treatment to our clients.
To learn more about the benefits of DBT, contact PAATC’s devoted, experienced, and caring staff today. Why choose DBT? Find out by calling our number at 844.442.8673 or completing our online form.
What Is DBT?
DBT operates by using two seemingly divergent elements to create change and healing. Dialectical refers to action through opposing forces, which are acceptance and change in the case of DBT. The ability to acknowledge the way things are combined with the willingness to initiate change helps those with a substance use disorder. It allows them to feel balanced and accepting while shifting from unhealthy to healthy behaviors and goals. Acceptance enables change without trauma. The change aligns you with your preferred outcomes of health, recovery, and well-being.
The four pillars of DBT therapy are:
- Mindfulness
- Interpersonal effectiveness
- Distress tolerance
- Emotional regulation
The Benefits of Dialectical Behavior Therapy
For many people, there are emotional triggers behind addiction as well as difficulties managing stress and relationships. The benefits of dialectical behavior therapy include coping with all of those challenges and learning skills that you can take with you after rehab. These skills will enhance your quality of life in the future.
1. You Have a Timeline
Even though all therapies differ based on the individual, DBT is goal-focused and time-limited, lasting about six months. Because it is based on modules that the therapist and client work through one by one, you will see your progress along the way and benefit from the clearly visible end-in-sight.
2. You’ll Learn to Handle Potential Triggers
You learn to handle painful emotional triggers in a healthy way. The triggers that exist inside you that threaten your sobriety can be managed when you have learned the principles of DBT. Anger, fear, anxiety, loss, stress, and even trauma will stop controlling you.
3. You Can Begin to Heal Your Relationships
As you engage in DBT therapy, you’ll notice that you can better navigate your relationships. You can heal any damage done during your addiction, learn how to be more effective in your personal interactions, and realize that the people in your life want to support and empower you in your recovery.
4. You Can Improve Other Aspects of Life
DBT can improve nearly every aspect of your life. Even though you engage in DBT to help with your recovery, you’ll find that the process has broad application and that your learning will positively affect all areas of your mental health, including your recovery, of course.
5. Your Quality of Life Improves
One of the most remarkable things about DBT is that it helps you be okay, even when things are hard or bad things happen. DBT puts you not only on the road to recovery but on the road to being your best possible self, in all settings and in the face of whatever happens.
Receive the Benefits of Treatment at Pennsylvania Adult and Teen Challenge
When you call to talk to one of our staff, ask about dialectical behavior therapy and how it and other evidence-based therapies can help you. There is hope and healing awaiting you at PAATC. Whether you choose outpatient or inpatient therapy, at PAATC, we will tailor your treatment plan to your health and addiction history and personal requirements. Dial 844.442.8673 or fill out our online form to connect with someone today.