If you are someone you know is dealing with substance abuse or mental health issues, you are not alone. There are plenty of people who find themselves in the same situation. You need to think carefully about how you were going to treat these issues. Usually, this involves a combination of therapy and prescription medications. One option is called DBT, or dialectical behavior therapy. Before you get started, you probably want to learn more about dialectical behavior therapy techniques and how they will help you during the recovery process. If so, contact Pennsylvania Adult & Teen Challenge at 844.442.8673 to learn what dialectical behavior therapy is and how it works.
A Brief Look at the History of DBT
First, it is essential to understand where DBT comes from in the world of therapy. DBT is a branch of cognitive-behavioral therapy, which is the foundation of the treatment of numerous mental health issues.
In general, DBT is derived from something called dialectics. Dialectics focuses on the concept that change occurs when there is a dialogue between two opposing forces.
There are a few basic assumptions that you make when it comes to dialectics and DBT. These assumptions include:
- Everything in the world is interconnected
- You can change something that is ongoing, inevitable, and constant
- Opposites can work together to create a new truth
So, how does this apply to DBT? In DBT, you and a therapist will work together to resolve a contradiction that led to your mental health issues. When you are able to focus on self-acceptance and change, you can bring about positive changes in your life that can help you recover.
How Does DBT Work?
When it comes to dialectical behavior therapy techniques, it has evolved significantly during the past few decades. This is a specific type of therapy that can treat a wide variety of conditions, which is why it might be available to you. There are three separate settings in which DBT might be necessary. These include:
- You might be involved in group settings. In this setting, you will learn behavioral skills that can help you manage mental health issues. For example, you might end up role-playing with other individuals, helping you improve your interactions with others.
- Furthermore, DBT can also be applied in an individual setting. A trained professional may closely work with you, focusing on behavioral skills that you can apply in your everyday life. That way, you can improve your overall quality of life, helping you better manage mental health issues.
- Recently, DBT is also available over the phone as a branch of telemedicine. That way, you can receive coaching and guidance if you are having trouble coping with a specific situation.
There is a strong chance that all of these DBT settings will be part of your treatment plan.
What Are the Benefits of DBT?
If you decide to give DBT a try, there are numerous benefits that you will enjoy:
- You were going to learn about strategies that can help you accept and tolerate changes in your life.
- You’ll be able to cope better with these changes as they unfold, helping you replace destructive behavior patterns with more constructive ones.
- You will also learn to communicate better with those around you, helping to avoid many of the issues that led to mental health issues or addiction in the first place.
Contact Pennsylvania Adult & Teen Challenge Today
If you are interested in learning more about DBT, Pennsylvania Adult & Teen Challenge is here to help you. We will work with you on an individual basis, customizing your treatment plan to meet your needs. Please contact us today at 844.442.8673.