CBT and DBT for Addiction Treatment
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) are two of the most common and effective approaches in modern day psychotherapy. Both of these therapeutic modalities fall under the umbrella of “talk therapy” as you talk through your problems and reframe your thoughts with the help of a mental health professional. If you have ever felt that negative thoughts dictate the tone of your life, then CBT helps you use logic and reasoning to regain control over your own thoughts. These therapies offer a powerful approach to building emotional resilience, improving mental health, and positively modulating one’s own personality. With such similar sounding names, it is only natural to wonder what the difference between CBT and DBT is and when one should be used over the other.
How Do CBT and DBT Work?
CBT and DBT are evidence-based behavioral therapies that target distinct yet overlapping sets of challenges. The fundamental idea behind these psychotherapies is realizing that your thoughts, beliefs and behaviors are dependent on each other and a change in one impacts the others.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
A negative behavior, such as substance abuse, can be a product of distorted thoughts and beliefs that one might hold. For example, the thought that one might be disliked by people might lead them to believe that they are not worthy of being liked. This could then result in unhealthy coping mechanisms with drug abuse being one of them. The goal of CBT is to leverage this interplay by introducing positive and realistic change in one or more of these factors. Along with substance use disorder, it can also be used to tackle depression, anxiety, PTSD, insomnia, eating disorders and specific phobias.
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy
DBT is a version of CBT with a greater focus on emotional processes. This involves the identification of triggers that can induce intense emotions and an overly negative state. It was initially devised to tackle suicidal ideation and maladaptive personalties such as borderline personality disorder. The word “dialectical” means the fusion of opposites and this lies at the core of this practice. One is made to realize that the glass is half empty and also half full. By accepting reality as it is, the goal is to prevent the abrupt escalation of negative feelings by practicing emotional regulation. These skills are then employed when one leaves the inpatient setting and begins forming their own routines.
CBT and DBT Therapy for Substance Use Disorders
At 1000 Islands, we offer transformative CBT and DBT therapies as part of a holistic approach to healing. CBT hones in on reshaping challenging thoughts while helping individuals break free from harmful mental loops. DBT dives deep into the emotional storm teaching clients the importance of accepting and confronting reality instead of escaping from it through one’s addictions. Together these therapies tackle co-occurring mental health conditions – such as depression, anxiety, phobias, and maladaptive personalities – that often fuel addictions. A special focus is placed on relationship-building as this lies at the core of all behavioral therapies – including the relationship with your practitioner. At 1000 Islands, we honor this bond by paying special attention to this dynamic.
CBT Versus DBT
CBT and DBT are powerful therapies often combined for addiction recovery. CBT focuses on the interplay between your thoughts, feelings, and behavior. While DBT addresses these issues, it places more of an emphasis on emotional regulation, mindfulness, and learning to tolerate discomfort by accepting the realities of one’s own self and their surroundings. At 1000 Islands, we craft personalized treatment plans tailored to your unique challenges and goals. Whether through CBT, DBT, or both, we target the roots of addiction and work on strategies which aid in creating healthier routines and coping mechanisms. This holistic approach ensures every individual receives the tools needed to rebuild and thrive.
Recover From Addiction With Evidence-Based Behavioral Therapy
At 1000 Islands, we offer evidence-based behavioral therapies like CBT and DBT to support lasting addiction recovery. CBT helps reframe negative thinking patterns, making it highly effective for depression, anxiety, and addiction triggers. DBT provides tools to manage intense emotions, teaching coping skills that are essential for emotional stability and resilience. Together, these therapies address the root causes of addiction while also looking at the co-occurring illnesses that further cement these toxic cycles. Our personalized treatment plans are tailored to your unique needs and goals. Take the first step toward a healthier future by contacting 1000 Islands today to learn how we can help you rebuild your life.
Information on this page is for informational purposes only, and does not replace personalized medical advice. You should never make any decisions about your health without consulting a healthcare professional, especially when related to substance use or mental health. To speak to a qualified member of our team for personalized advice, you can contact us here.
