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Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) is a type of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) that focuses on finding harmony between two seemingly opposing forces. DBT was initially developed to help individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder; however, DBT has been adapted to treat other mental health disorders, like Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). The core of DBT is learning to accept change, live in the moment, regulate emotions, improve relationships with others, and cope with stress.
DBT can be especially helpful for those who are struggling with “black-and-white” thinking or having trouble seeing neutral or “gray” areas in life. When people have extreme perspectives, they might have mood swings or trouble in interpersonal relationships. The clinical team at Create Recovery Center is trained to treat individuals exactly where they are in their recovery. DBT is one of many techniques that our staff can use to help you reach your recovery goals and take charge of your life! DBT focuses on helping you learn specific skills that can cause you to come to terms with seemingly opposing perspectives, better maintain relationships, and regulate your emotions.
DBT is especially helpful for those experiencing extreme mood swings and regulating emotions, which can create difficulty in other areas of life. They might have distorted self-images due to underlying mental health disorders and attribute an adverse event as an extension of themselves. If you are struggling with feelings like these, remember that you are not your disorder! There is hope for you, and Create Recovery is here to teach DBT practices to those struggling with dual-diagnosis of addiction, impulsive control, and the following disorders:
The skills learned in DBT sessions can be categorized as follows:
Life has many ups and downs. When a person struggles to accept change, feelings of discomfort, or unexpected events, they might benefit from DBT as they learn how to manage their emotional responses. When our perspectives are altered due to mental health disorders, we might view the world as an unfair and unsafe place. We might struggle to trust others and find ourselves lashing out at loved ones for minor issues. When we struggle to control our emotions, others may not understand the pain we are going through. DBT can help you learn to control your emotions and build a healthy perspective in life.
At Create Recovery Center, we believe that recovery from mental illness and co-occurring disorders is best in a safe and supportive environment. Through our many programs, we can teach you the skills you need to live the life of your dreams as you manage your addiction and its underlying causes. We offer a range of treatments, from outpatient services to long-term residential care. Dual-diagnosis treatment for addiction and mental health disorders, like Borderline Personality Disorder and PTSD, can include therapies like Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. If you struggle to regulate your emotions, view yourself positively, or see life on balanced terms, DBT might be the right therapy for you!
Frequently Asked Questions About DBT at Create Recovery Center
How long does DBT treatment typically last?
DBT is traditionally structured as a comprehensive program that runs for about 6 months to a year, though the duration can be tailored to your individual needs. At Create Recovery Center, we integrate DBT into our Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP), Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), and Outpatient services, allowing you to receive this evidence-based therapy at the level of care that's right for you. Many people start seeing improvements in emotional regulation and relationship skills within the first few months, though lasting change often comes with consistent practice over time.
What's the difference between DBT and regular talk therapy?
Unlike traditional talk therapy that focuses primarily on discussing your feelings and past experiences, DBT is a skills-based approach that gives you practical tools you can use right away. You'll learn specific techniques through both individual therapy sessions and group skills training. Think of it like learning to play an instrument—you need both the instruction and the practice. DBT combines weekly one-on-one sessions with group classes where you'll practice real-world skills with others who understand what you're going through.
Can I do DBT if I'm also receiving treatment for addiction?
Absolutely. In fact, DBT was designed with dual-diagnosis treatment in mind and works incredibly well alongside addiction recovery. At Create Recovery Center, we specialize in treating co-occurring disorders—when mental health conditions and substance abuse happen together. The emotion regulation and distress tolerance skills you learn in DBT can be powerful tools for managing cravings and avoiding relapse. Many of our clients find that addressing both their mental health and addiction simultaneously through integrated treatment like DBT leads to more lasting recovery.
is a boutique outpatient treatment program catering to mental health, dual-diagnosis and substance abuse addiction.
