Dialectical Behavior Therapy

Addiction and co-occurring disorders are influenced by strong emotions. Sometimes, individuals who can’t manage their emotions healthily turn to substances to cope with their struggles. This can lead to substance abuse and, ultimately, addiction. On the other hand, misusing substances can cause changes in the brain, making individuals more prone to dysregulated emotions. Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based therapy that focuses on helping individuals manage their emotions and develop healthy coping strategies.

At Sophros Recovery Tampa, we understand the complexities of addiction and the courage it takes to seek help. Our addiction therapy programs are designed to empower individuals on their journey toward recovery. You can reclaim your life and build a better future—we can help. Call 813.686.6306 to get started at our Tampa, FL, center today.

What Is Dialectical Behavior Therapy?

Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is a cognitive-behavioral approach that emphasizes the psychosocial aspects of treatment. The theory behind the approach is that some people are prone to react more intensely toward certain emotional situations, primarily those found in romantic, family, and friend relationships. DBT theory suggests that some people’s arousal levels can increase far more quickly than the average person’s, attain a higher level of emotional stimulation, and take a significant amount of time to return to baseline arousal levels.

How Does a Dialectical Behavior Therapy Program Work?

During DBT, a therapist will work closely with a client to uncover their emotions and the origins of their struggles. Through a combination of individual and group therapy sessions, clients will learn how to:

• Identify and label their emotions
• Understand the function of their emotions and how they impact their behavior
• Develop healthy coping strategies to manage intense emotions
• Learn effective communication skills to improve relationships
• Build a life worth living by setting goals and working toward them

Sophros Recovery programs DBT into individual therapy plans, providing clients with personalized treatment tailored to their specific needs.

How We Use DBT at Sophros Recovery Tampa

Our addiction therapy programs are available at different levels to meet our clients where they are on their recovery journey.

• Day or night treatment program – Our day or night program is an intensive treatment option (similar to partial care services) designed for individuals who require a higher level of care. During this program, clients participate in DBT sessions and other evidence-based therapies to address their addiction and any co-occurring disorders.
• Intensive outpatient program (IOP) – Our IOP offers a less intensive treatment option for clients transitioning from our day or night program or those requiring more support than traditional outpatient treatment. Clients in our IOP will also be able to participate in DBT sessions as part of their individualized treatment plan.
• Outpatient program (OP) – Our OP is a flexible and customizable program designed to support clients as they transition back into their daily lives while maintaining their sobriety. DBT sessions may be included in the individual therapy plans for clients in this program.

When you start at Sophros Recovery in Tampa, our team will help you understand how DBT can support your recovery journey. Our trained therapists will guide you through the process of identifying and managing emotions, developing healthy coping strategies, and improving relationships.