Millions of American adults struggle with addiction without knowing that there is a way out of the situation. Many who battle substance use don’t have the communication skills or tools to manage stressful situations in a healthy way. Unfortunately, as they continue to use substances, the drugs change the brain’s chemical makeup, making it extremely challenging to stop using substances alone. However, a dialectical behavior therapy program can help provide the tools the person is missing. At Bonfire Behavioral Health in Dover, New Hampshire, we work each day to inspire people to put their drug and alcohol use in the past. Dialectical behavior therapy can help make your goal of sobriety a reality. Reach out to our team today at 603.617.4815 to learn how this treatment option can support you.
What Is a Dialectical Behavior Therapy Program?
Dialectical behavior therapy, otherwise known as DBT, is a form of cognitive behavioral therapy. This treatment’s primary goal initially was to help those struggling with borderline personality disorder and suicidal thoughts. This treatment allows patients to learn to redirect their negative thoughts to prevent suicide.
DBT is an excellent program if you haven’t responded to medication and other addiction treatment options. It can also help those experiencing chronic mental and physical problems, such as self-harm or eating disorders.
Our dialectical behavior therapy program focuses on a range of essential skills that can assist you in managing your thoughts. For example, DBT addresses skills such as:
- Mindfulness: Mindfulness is critical for those struggling to maintain focus. Many people struggling with addiction and/or depression tend to focus primarily on their past and future. However, mindfulness allows you to enjoy the present.
- Distress tolerance: Life presents a range of challenging situations, and it’s critical to develop distress tolerance to allow you to stay calm throughout these challenges. These skills will enable you to master tolerating uncomfortable and stressful life experiences.
- Interpersonal effectiveness: It can often be challenging to ask for the things you need and say no if you know that something is unhealthy. You can learn to support yourself without being disrespectful or hurting others.
- Emotional regulation: For those struggling with mental health conditions and addiction, it can be challenging to regulate your emotions, particularly when you’re feeling frustrated, sad, or angry. However, while you’re in our dialectical behavior therapy program, you can learn to manage your emotions effectively, empowering you to grow.
What Can You Expect During a Dialectical Behavior Therapy Program?
When you first contact Bonfire Behavioral Health, we’ll begin by determining whether dialectical behavior therapy can help you overcome your addiction. We’ll start providing an intake assessment to determine how severe your addiction is, what treatments you have received in the past and whether you have any underlying mental health issues. If we determine that DBT can help you overcome any issues you may have, we’ll add this therapy to your individualized treatment program.
Dialectical behavior therapy can take place in individual therapy sessions as well as group therapy sessions. In group sessions, you’ll work on developing communication and social skills, while in individual therapy sessions, you can address your personal challenges.
Contact Bonfire Behavioral Health Today
At Bonfire Behavioral Health, we understand the challenges you’re facing with addiction and mental. We also know that there are treatments available to assist you in recovery. Whether you require dialectical behavior therapy or other therapeutic options, we can support you. You no longer have to manage your addiction or mental health condition on your own. Reach out to our Dover, New Hampshire substance abuse treatment program today by calling 603.617.4815 or using our convenient online form. Recovery is within reach at Bonfire Behavioral Health.