For those who are working to overcome drug or alcohol addiction, there are a variety of evidence-based therapies that can be highly effective. At Coalition Recovery, one approach that we use in both group and individual therapy sessions is dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). This therapeutic approach helps clients learn to live in the moment, manage stress effectively, and even improve relationships.

Learn more about how DBT or evidence-based therapies could help you or your loved one on the journey to recovery. Reach out to Coalition Recovery at 888.707.2873 or connect with us online today.

What Is DBT?

DBT is a type of cognitive-behavioral therapy, which helps those in recovery understand their patterns of thought. Negative thought patterns can lead to unhealthy behaviors. However, those negative thoughts can be adjusted and reframed. In DBT, participants work with trained therapists to learn more about themselves and to develop skills that will help them in the future.

Acceptance and validation are important aspects of DBT. While acceptance may seem opposite to the goal of treatment, which is to help clients change their behaviors, it’s important for participants to accept that the choices they’ve made in the past, the circumstances they find themselves in, and their emotions.

What You’ll Learn in DBT

Some of the skills that clients learn in DBT include:

• Mindfulness
• Distress tolerance
• Emotion regulation
• Interpersonal effectiveness

Mindfulness has to do with simply being aware of the present moment. Individuals who are addicted to drugs or alcohol might struggle with impulsivity. However, being mindful of emotions, feelings, and surroundings can help those in recovery put impulsive choices in perspective.

Distress tolerance involves how participants cope with pain or distressing life events. Instead of changing the situation, clients learn to change their responses to it.

Emotion regulation refers to the ability of an individual to understand their emotions and even change them in positive ways.

Finally, interpersonal effectiveness is the way people relate to each other. In DBT, participants can learn to more effectively and clearly communicate with others. This can lead to more healthy relationships with friends, family members, and romantic partners.

How DBT Can Help Those in Recovery

DBT is especially effective in treating substance use disorders because of its focus on the connection between emotions and behaviors. It can help those in recovery stop making impulsive decisions that might be fueled by cravings or relapse triggers. In addition, it can help those in treatment stay in treatment for longer, which can lead to better long-term outcomes.

The focus on interpersonal effectiveness is a crucial part of DBT. Having support in recovery is essential. Addiction can be isolating. It can feel as though your loved ones don’t understand what you are going through. However, DBT can be used in group therapy sessions, where you’ll be able to connect with others who have been through similar experiences. You’ll learn how to communicate more effectively and can develop a strong network of support.

Start Your Journey to Recovery at Coalition

At Coalition Recovery, we offer high-quality outpatient addiction treatment programs in the Tampa area. Our clients develop the healthy coping skills they need for long-term, sustainable recovery. We support our clients every step of the way.

The treatment programs we offer include:

• Detox 
• Partial hospitalization programs
• Outpatient care
• Aftercare
• Sober living

In addition, we offer specialized treatment programs for veterans, young adults, working professionals, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and students. Our goal is to remove any obstacles to treatment and help those in need begin the road to recovery as soon as possible.

Lasting, sustainable recovery is possible. Reach out to Coalition Recovery at 888.707.2873 or contact us online today to learn more.