DBT for Addiction in Austin

Best Dialectical Behavior Therapy Program for Addiction in Austin, TX

Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) has been proven effective for individuals with substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions. This therapeutic modality combines traditional cognitive behavioral therapy and Eastern mindfulness practices, making it a unique and effective approach for those with addiction. 

The Last Resort Recovery Center offers DBT as part of our addiction treatment program. DBT skills can help you or your loved one during the detox process and can be built upon during residential and intensive outpatient treatment programs. These skills give our clients the tools to overcome their addictions and recover. 

Call The Last Resort today for more information on our DBT treatment program.

What is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)?

Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based treatment modality developed by psychotherapist Marsha Linehan. It has four core skill components: mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, emotion regulation, and distress tolerance. DBT helps build communication skills, improves relationships, and aids in emotional regulation. Additionally, it seeks to teach clients how to decrease self-destructive behaviors. 

What is a DBT Session Like?

DBT can be used in an individual session or group setting. Each session is designed to be unique to that client’s circumstances and will begin to address the underlying issues of their drug or alcohol dependence. By starting from the beginning, our therapists can help each individual build DBT skills that will aid them in the recovery process. 

Individual DBT Sessions

During an individual therapy session for DBT, the therapist and client work together to identify, understand, and change the behaviors, thoughts, and emotions causing distress. Generally, the therapist will focus on identifying the underlying problem and then developing an individualized treatment plan. During follow-up sessions, the therapist will provide psychoeducation, skills training, and other supportive strategies, such as behavioral activation and self-care. Through individual sessions, clients learn to manage their emotions better and change negative thought patterns to increase their overall well-being.

Group DBT Sessions

Group DBT sessions can be utilized in both inpatient and outpatient programs. Participants learn to identify triggers that cause intense emotions and tools to cope with them. Sessions typically involve role-play, problem-solving, skills practice, and group discussion. The group is led by a trained therapist and is designed to be a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space. Clients learn to replace negative emotions and behaviors with healthy coping strategies, which can be important in recovery. Group sessions can also be an opportunity to develop relationships with people in similar situations and support each other as they work on their chemical dependency.

Who Can Benefit from DBT?

Individuals dealing with substance abuse often have co-occurring disorders that can make sustaining sobriety difficult. Holistic treatment and proper therapy are vital components of overcoming substance use disorder. 

DBT is an effective therapeutic modality for people with the following challenges:

  • Substance abuse 
  • Depression
  • Anxiety 
  • Borderline Personality Disorder 
  • Mood swings 
  • Eating disorders 
  • Impulse control problems 
  • Relationship problems 
  • Suicidal thoughts and behaviors 
  • Bipolar disorder
  • Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

DBT for Addiction 

Addiction is a multifaceted illness that can be difficult to treat. Those with substance use disorder need individualized treatment and specialized therapy. DBT is an excellent modality for effective addiction treatment and craving reduction. 

Dialectical behavioral therapy helps individuals with addiction develop healthy coping skills and become more mindful of their behavior. Utilizing mindfulness and these skills allows them to make better decisions and ultimately avoid relapse.  

DBT also helps individuals identify and understand their triggers for addictive behavior, increasing their self-awareness and insight into their addiction. Feelings of guilt and shame are common for those with a substance use disorder. DBT encourages self-acceptance and helps individuals overcome these difficult emotions. This accepting attitude can help clients stay motivated to maintain sobriety.

Get Help Today at Our DBT Program for Addiction in Austin, Texas

The Last Resort Recovery Center utilizes dialectical behavior therapy in our treatment program because of the many benefits it offers our clients. Whether in a group or individual setting, DBT builds skills like mindfulness, distress tolerance, and emotion regulation that can be utilized in the recovery process and help you or your loved one achieve long-term recovery. Don’t wait. Start your journey at our DBT addiction treatment program today.