Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) in Utah
DBT at Acqua Recovery in Utah
If you grapple with addiction and mood disorders, the journey to recovery may seem daunting and almost impossible. But proven therapeutic techniques such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) can significantly alter the trajectory of your recovery. When it comes to DBT therapy, Utah is your home for hope and healing. Below, our Utah-based Acqua Recovery experts break down DBT, a proven, transformative approach to addiction treatment and mood disorder management.
What is Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)?
Initially developed by Dr. Marsha Linehan in the late 1980s, DBT is a comprehensive treatment model designed to manage severe personality disorders, particularly Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). It has since evolved and been applied successfully in treating a wide range of other conditions, including substance use disorders (SUD), depression, bipolar disorder, and eating disorders.
DBT is a variant of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) but has a distinct emphasis on the psychosocial aspect of treatment. It hinges on the premise of dialectics — the concept that everything is interconnected and change is inevitable. Through a balance of acceptance and change strategies, DBT aims to mitigate emotional instability, improve self-regulation, and promote healthier ways of managing stress and navigating relationships. According to our Clinical Director Gloria Anderson, “DBT can be extremely effective with addictive tendencies because it can show that two seemingly different thoughts and feelings can both be true. For example, someone struggling with addiction can have the thought, ‘I love my family more than anything,’ while also exhibiting the behavior of continued drug use. From there, we work on bridging the two.”
The Four Core Components of DBT
DBT therapy encompasses four fundamental components: individual therapy, skills training, phone coaching, and consultation teams.
Individual Therapy
Individual therapy entails one-on-one sessions with a trained therapist. These sessions aim to motivate the individual to apply the skills they’re learning in a practical, real-world context, enhancing their overall coping mechanisms.
Skills Training
Skills training typically occurs in a group setting and focuses on teaching behavioral skills. The four primary skills modules include mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness.
Phone Coaching
Phone coaching provides clients with on-the-spot support, allowing them to get support and apply skills to real-life situations as they arise.
Consultation Teams
Consultation teams are made up of healthcare providers who meet regularly to discuss their cases, share ideas, and support each other in the process of offering DBT.
Why DBT at Acqua Recovery?
Acqua Recovery employs a holistic and individualized approach to DBT, utilizing it as an integral part of our treatment programs. Here’s why our practitioners use DBT for addiction treatment, and why our program stands out:
Professional and Experienced Therapists
Our group of gifted and highly trained, and experienced therapists have undergone extensive training in DBT and are committed to providing empathic, individualized care.
Personalized Treatment Plan
At Acqua Recovery, we understand every individual’s experience with addiction is unique. As such, our therapists work with each client to develop a personalized treatment plan, ensuring that DBT aligns with their specific recovery needs and goals.
Holistic Approach
Our holistic approach incorporates physical, psychological, and social aspects into our DBT program. We believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms of addiction and mood disorders.
Comprehensive Aftercare Program
Recovery is an ongoing journey, and the resources needed after treatment are just as critical as inpatient support. Acqua provides a comprehensive aftercare program to support our clients post-treatment as they integrate their recovery plan into their everyday lives.
The Road Ahead: DBT and Aftercare
At Acqua Recovery, we understand the journey to recovery extends beyond the completion of our inpatient program. We offer a comprehensive aftercare program designed to provide continued support and ensure you maintain the strides you’ve made during treatment.
As part of our aftercare program, you’ll have access to ongoing therapy sessions, support groups, and resources that will aid in your recovery. This approach ensures that the skills and techniques learned through DBT are reinforced and integrated into your daily life, helping to prevent relapse and maintain progress in managing your mood disorder.
The Acqua Recovery Difference
Acqua Recovery is not just a place for treatment; it’s a sanctuary for individuals seeking to reshape and reclaim their lives. We offer a soothing and welcoming environment that promotes healing, introspection, and transformation. Our picturesque surroundings and state-of-the-art amenities provide the perfect backdrop for our innovative DBT programs in Utah.
At Acqua Recovery, our core philosophy revolves around treating the whole person, focusing both on the disorder and on overall well-being. This approach, combined with the transformative power of DBT therapy in Utah, sets Acqua apart and allows us to provide a truly holistic treatment experience.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) in Utah at Acqua Recovery is one of the best treatment modalities for substance abuse. Join us today, and let us walk with you on this transformative pathway to recovery via DBT therapy in Utah.
Client Testimonials
As soon as I stepped through the doors at Acqua I was welcomed into a family – I was treated with dignity and respect. It was the first time in a while I felt like I belonged, which helped me take an honest look at myself. I learned how to love myself again and for that, I am forever grateful.
Matt B. Northeast USA
Frequently Asked Questions About DBT
Who can benefit from DBT?
While initially designed for individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder, DBT has proven effective for those struggling with a range of mental health issues, including addiction, mood disorders like depression or bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and more. Anyone dealing with emotional instability, self-destructive behaviors, or difficulties in relationships can benefit from DBT.
How does DBT help in treating addiction?
DBT assists individuals in recognizing triggers for addictive behavior and teaches effective skills in managing these triggers. It also promotes healthier coping mechanisms and ways to handle stress, reducing the likelihood of turning to substances. Through DBT, individuals learn to regulate their emotions, tolerate distress, and improve interpersonal relationships — all integral aspects of a successful recovery journey.
How long does DBT take?
The duration of DBT can vary depending on individual needs and the severity of the issues being addressed. On average, a full DBT program lasts around six months to one year. However, everyone’s journey is unique, and some clients might require a shorter or longer duration for treatment.
Is DBT a standalone treatment?
While DBT is a comprehensive and effective therapeutic approach, it is often used as part of a bigger-picture treatment plan that may include other therapies (such as CBT, REBT, EMDR, or MAT), medication management, and supportive resources. At Acqua Recovery, we use DBT as part of an integrated, multidimensional approach to DBT therapy for addiction treatment.
What happens after DBT treatment?
Acqua Recovery provides a dynamic aftercare program, ensuring the skills and strategies learned in DBT are applied and maintained in everyday life. Our aftercare plan includes follow-up clinical appointments, support groups, and resources to help prevent relapse and continue personal growth and healing in recovery.
How can I start DBT at Acqua Recovery?
Getting started with DBT at Acqua Recovery is as simple as reaching out. Our compassionate and friendly admissions and support team will provide the answers you need, guide you through the admissions process, and help develop a personalized treatment plan that aligns with your personal recovery needs and goals.
Take the first step to transforming your life.
Dr. Pickrell is a board-certified psychiatrist with interests in addiction and psychiatry. He strives to identify the underlying cause of substance use. His understanding of addiction as the overlapping symptoms of biopsychosocial development is the foundation to his care model. He is committed to helping both patients and families understand that addiction is a treatable medical illness. He has been involved in the treatment of addiction for the last 17 years and completed his residency training at the University of Utah.
