12-Step Based Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
A Practical Approach to Lastiing Change
12-Step Based Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a therapy that helps people manage intense emotions and improve their relationships without resorting to harmful behaviors.
What is 12-Step Based DBT at Cumberland Heights?
DBT is a structured form of therapy that grew out of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eastern philosophies of mindfulness and radical acceptance. While CBT helps people recognize and reframe harmful thoughts, DBT goes further by teaching skills that help one acknowledge two opposing truths at once. In the context of recovery, this means learning to accept yourself as you are while also committing to meaningful change.
Our 12-Step based DBT approach acknowledges the unmanageability that often defines life in active addiction and mental illness. Through a balance of acceptance and change, 12-Step DBT helps individuals learn recovery skills to better manage the emotional intensity that often drives and worsens substance use and other destructive behaviors.
Clinicians trained in 12-Step DBT lead both small and large group sessions, as well as individual work. Participants learn and practice new skills, reflecting on progress during group discussions. Many of these practices are closely aligned with Seeking Safety, a treatment model designed to support those with both substance use and trauma-related disorders. We believe learning these skills is essential not only for beginning recovery, but also for feeling emotionally safe in recovery.
The Benefits of DBT for Addiction and Mental Health Issues
12-Step DBT is especially effective for individuals who feel overwhelmed by emotions or who struggle to manage relationships, stress, or cravings. The therapy is built around four core components:
- Mindfulness: Staying present and grounded in the moment, trying not to judge self or others, even during distress.
- Distress Tolerance: Learning to sit with discomfort without reacting impulsively.
- Emotion Regulation: Identifying and balancing intense feelings, living in the middle rather than at extremes.
- Interpersonal Effectiveness: Communicating your needs clearly and calmly, without shutting down or blowing up.
These practical tools help clients build the emotional resilience needed to navigate early recovery and prevent relapse. 12-Step DBT supports individuals in moving from chaos to clarity by shifting unhelpful beliefs, managing emotional pain, and reinforcing healthy behavior.
Working through the 12 Steps and applying DBT skills promotes greater emotional balance, improved relationships, and a renewed sense of hope. Together, these elements form a strong foundation for lasting recovery.
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As a preeminent leader in clinically excellent, evidence-based practices and recovery success stories, Cumberland Heights is also Tennessee’s first ASAM-accredited treatment program. Our team of experienced addiction professionals will tailor a plan for your needs.
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