Thousands of Americans struggle with addiction every day. Each has a personal story to tell about their substance use and how it has affected their lives, careers, relationships, and financial security. Unfortunately, only around 10% of those who could benefit from addiction treatment receive it. If you or someone you care about struggles with a substance use disorder, congratulations on looking for information about addiction therapy.
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is a proven, evidence-based therapy that works exceptionally well for a range of mental health disorders as well as addiction. If you are searching for your best life of sobriety and are interested in dialectical behavior therapy in Pennsylvania, look no further than Pennsylvania Adult and Teen Challenge (PAATC).
PAATC has successfully guided clients onto the path of recovery for more than 60 years. Our committed, compassionate professional clinicians provide DBT as well as other evidence-based behavioral therapy treatments for the full range of substance use disorders. If you are wondering, “What is dialectical behavior therapy?” or “How do I begin preparing for DBT?” we have the answers you seek. Call us at 844.442.8673 or submit our online form to find out more.
What Is DBT?
Dialectical behavior therapy was developed in the 1980s as an offshoot of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), although it is a distinct modality. At first, DBT was considered a treatment specific to borderline personality disorder. However, soon it became clear that this powerful therapeutic tool could address so much more, from anxiety disorders and PTSD to addiction.
DBT is firmly rooted in the concept of mindfulness and embodies a duality. People in treatment learn to embrace acceptance of what is as well as the will to change. The idea is that acceptance allows you to approach gradual and permanent transformation without urgency, haste, or a sense of panic or fear about outcomes.
DBT is highly focused and expansive in scope, using key elements listed below.
- Mindfulness mitigates addiction’s impulsivity and emotional reactivity by focusing on the now.
- The element of mindfulness and distress tolerance provides the ability to handle setbacks and tolerate emotional upset. Then, when mastered, it is possible to make a continued commitment to recovery increasingly possible.
- Reframing thinking and behavior is one way to accept your history of addiction while opening to the possibility of change.
- Focusing on communication skills helps you mend broken relationships, engage in healthy new connections, and accept help and support.
- Emotional regulation is key to staying sober. In DBT, you learn to find balance, so you still feel your feelings, but they no longer control you or wreak havoc in your life.
Preparing for DBT
We have heard from numerous clients who have experienced DBT and credit it with helping them attain mental wellness and sobriety. But we also know that in preparing for dialectical behavior therapy, clients benefit from knowing a little about the mindset that enables a successful DBT experience.
DBT is goal-oriented and highly focused so that when painful memories or challenging triggers arise, the overarching plan keeps both client and therapist on track. A caring professional with experience in DBT holds space and offers support and compassion throughout the process. We ask that every client prepares for treatment with three attributes:
- Commitment – The DBT road can be rocky, with emotions piqued and amplified at times. DBT preparation is all about committing to the process. You may feel tired of your life of addiction and understand its risks to your health and well-being. If so, make that leap into rehab, knowing PAATC is here to catch you and support you.
- Effort – The great thing about addiction treatment is that you are not alone as you seek sobriety. As you work hard, so do we. Our clinical staff will support you in your efforts. We’ll walk beside you as you dig deep to learn about yourself, your addiction, and how to redirect yourself positively.
- Patience – Perhaps most of all, preparing for dialectical behavior therapy requires patience. Do not expect instant miracles. Trust the process. Know that the journey is underway. You may not feel different for a long time, but you will.
Learn More at Pennsylvania Adult and Teen Challenge
Do not hesitate to reach out to us if you seek more information about dialectical behavior therapy at PAATC. Your recovery is important to us. We want you to feel prepared for what is to come and reassured that we will always have your back. Call us today at 844.442.8673 or use our online form.
