Dialectical Behavior Therapy

Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based therapeutic approach in behavioral health treatment. It has been used for decades to treat various substance use disorders (SUDs) and mental health conditions. It works by helping individuals change negative thinking and regulate emotions, ultimately leading to lasting changes in behavior. Clear Steps Recovery offers DBT at their New Hampshire therapy treatment center in Londonderry, just minutes from Exit 4 on I-93 but comfortably set back and situated in a private, peaceful environment. We offer dialectical behavior therapy as part of our comprehensive outpatient treatment for substance use disorder and co-occurring mental health conditions. Call (603) 769-8981 to learn more about our programs and services or to get started today.

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What Is Dialectical Behavior Therapy?

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Dialectical behavior therapy is a type of cognitive-behavioral therapy used successfully to treat individuals with a range of behavioral health issues, including eating disorders, depression, and substance use disorders. Its broad application is a testament to the effectiveness of this evidence-based practice. DBT has four main components:

1. Mindfulness
2. Distress tolerance
3. Emotional regulation
4. Interpersonal effectiveness

Through DBT treatment at Clear Steps Recovery in New Hampshire, you will learn skills to help you manage difficult emotions so that it is easier for you to make healthy choices and reach your goals.

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How Does DBT Work?

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Dialectical behavior therapy sessions involve learning new skills based on the four components of mindfulness, emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness. Each session consists of both individual and group psychotherapy sessions where participants learn and practice the skills needed to manage their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. The individual sessions focus on understanding and accepting one’s emotions to create positive change, while the group sessions focus on developing interpersonal relationships with others.

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The Four Components of Dialectical Behavior Therapy

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A DBT session imparts necessary skills and coping mechanisms through the systematic application of four therapeutic components:

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Mindfulness

This component of DBT encourages participants to be present in the moment and aware of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It’s about learning to treat your emotions with acceptance, not judgment.

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Distress Tolerance

This component teaches you how to cope with difficult situations or intense emotions without making rash decisions that could lead to negative outcomes.

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Emotional Regulation

This component helps participants recognize and understand their responses in order to manage them better. It involves developing skills such as cognitive restructuring, which allows one to challenge negative thinking patterns.

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Interpersonal Effectiveness

This component focuses on improving relationships with others by teaching effective communication, assertiveness, and conflict-resolution strategies. At Clear Steps Recovery, our experienced clinicians are trained in dialectical behavior therapy and use their specialized skills to help you build a foundation for lasting recovery. We understand that the journey to sobriety is personal and can be challenging, which is why we provide comprehensive treatment plans tailored to your individual needs.

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What Conditions Are Best Suited to DBT Treatment?

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For individuals struggling with substance use disorder, the addiction is often accompanied by mental health issues like anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder. Dialectical behavior therapy is often used to treat some or all of these behavioral health conditions, including the following:

• Substance use disorder (SUD)
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Eating disorders
• Borderline personality disorder (BPD)
• Bipolar disorder

Additionally, it is helpful for those having difficulty regulating emotions. Treatment plans incorporating dialectical behavior therapy are tailored for each individual based on their specific needs and goals to provide the best possible recovery outcome.

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Clear Steps Recovery Offers Dialectical Behavior Therapy in New Hampshire

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If you or a loved one have been struggling with substance use disorder or a mental health condition, DBT treatment in New Hampshire at Clear Steps Recovery may be an effective way to live the life you want. Our experienced therapists customize your care plan to meet your specific needs. We provide a comprehensive suite of treatment programs employing both evidence-based therapies and holistic approaches to ensure the best possible chance of recovery for you or a loved one. Call (603) 769-8981 or reach out online today to take the first clear steps toward recovery.