Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Treatment Centers

Santa Cruz Drug Rehab helps you find treatment centers offering Dialectical Behavior Therapy, a powerful approach for individuals who struggle with intense emotions and self-destructive behaviors alongside addiction.

Understanding DBT

Developed by Dr. Marsha Linehan, DBT combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with acceptance strategies drawn from mindfulness practices. The "dialectical" aspect refers to balancing two seemingly opposite concepts: accepting yourself as you are while also working to change. This balance is particularly helpful in addiction recovery.

The Four DBT Skill Modules

• Mindfulness: The foundation of DBT—learning to be fully present and aware without judgment
• Distress Tolerance: Surviving crisis situations without making them worse through substance use
• Emotional Regulation: Understanding and managing intense emotions that often trigger substance use
• Interpersonal Effectiveness: Maintaining self-respect and healthy relationships while getting needs met

DBT Treatment Structure

A comprehensive DBT program typically includes:

• Weekly individual therapy sessions
• Weekly skills training groups
• Phone coaching for crisis situations
• Therapist consultation teams

Who Benefits Most from DBT?

DBT is particularly effective for individuals with co-occurring disorders, especially borderline personality disorder, PTSD, or those with histories of self-harm. It helps people who experience emotions intensely and have difficulty regulating their responses.

Explore our directory to find treatment centers offering DBT programs.