At Bridging the Gaps, we understand that addiction recovery can be a difficult journey, and we are committed to helping individuals find the right path. We offer dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) as an evidence-based practice designed to help individuals struggling with addiction within our residential and outpatient programs.
DBT is a type of cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy (CBT) developed by psychologist Marsha Linehan that focuses on helping people modify their emotions, behaviors, and thoughts in order to better manage difficult circumstances or mental health issues. It is based on the principles of validation and dialectics, which involve acceptance and change, respectively.
DBT combines traditional CBT with elements of Eastern mindfulness practices, such as acceptance and nonjudgmental awareness. It also helps to teach individuals skills that can help them better manage challenging emotions and behaviors, increase their self-confidence, and improve their relationships with others.
While CBT focuses on identifying and changing negative thinking patterns into positive behavior, DBT focuses on acceptance and change, finding a balance between two opposing viewpoints. Our DBT program in Virginia concentrates on teaching clients the skills necessary to cope with and change unhealthy behaviors that can lead to substance abuse and an addictive personality.
The main goals of DBT for addiction are to help clients manage their emotions, improve interpersonal relationships, and learn how to be mindful of their environment. Through our comprehensive treatment approach, we strive to give individuals the tools they need to make positive changes in their life without depending on drugs or alcohol.
Oftentimes addiction is fueled by self-destructive thought patterns and irregular emotions. The physical and mental toll that this takes on a person increases these patterns and makes them even more difficult to change. This causes suffering which affects relationships, health, home life, and work life.
The skills learned with DBT in addiction recovery can help individuals with their mental health issues as well as provide a toolkit to recover from substance use disorder. DBT skills learned for addiction recovery include:
DBT can be successful in treating the underlying issues that contribute to addiction, such as emotional reactivity, self-destructive behavior, and difficulty regulating emotions. Mental health conditions assisted by DBT include:
Yes, most insurance plans cover DBT. Bridging the Gaps will happily work with you and your insurance provider to ensure you are able to get the treatment you need.
No, DBT will not make you stop drinking or using drugs. However, it can help provide coping mechanisms to help manage cravings and urges, as well as reduce overall stress levels. The goals of DBT are to teach healthier coping skills and better emotional regulation, leading to long-term sobriety.
DBT has been shown to be highly effective in treating borderline personality disorder. It is one of the few therapy models specifically designed for BPD and has been found to significantly reduce symptoms associated with it.
It is difficult to determine how long it will take for DBT to work, as each client’s situation is unique. However, most clients begin seeing the benefits of DBT within the first several months. The more consistent the client is with their treatment program and attendance at sessions, the faster they may see results.
At Bridging the Gaps, dialectical behavioral therapy is offered in both our residential and outpatient programs. Our therapeutic modalities focus on healing the body holistically – treating the mind, body, and soul. It encourages a balance between positive change and healthy self-acceptance.
During DBT treatment with Bridging the Gaps, the client will learn steps toward a drug or alcohol-free life. Contact us online or call (540) 535-1111 to learn more.
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