Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)

What Is Dialectical Behaviour Therapy?

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) is a specialised form of cognitive behavioural therapy originally developed by Dr Marsha Linehan to treat individuals with intense emotional responses and difficulties regulating their emotions. It has since proven highly effective in treating addiction, self-destructive behaviours, and a range of complex mental health conditions.

The term “dialectical” refers to the balance between two seemingly opposing forces: acceptance and change. DBT teaches you to accept your current experience whilst simultaneously working towards meaningful change. This balance is particularly valuable in addiction recovery, where self-acceptance and motivation to change must coexist.

At Haliford Health Group, DBT is delivered by trained practitioners as part of our integrated treatment programmes. The therapy focuses on four core skill areas: mindfulness, which cultivates present-moment awareness; distress tolerance, which builds your capacity to navigate crises without resorting to harmful behaviours; emotional regulation, which helps you understand and manage intense emotions; and interpersonal effectiveness, which strengthens your ability to communicate needs and maintain healthy relationships.

DBT combines individual therapy sessions with skills training, often delivered in group settings. This dual approach ensures that you not only develop theoretical understanding but also practise and apply skills in a supportive, real-world context. The evidence base for DBT in addiction treatment is substantial, with research demonstrating significant improvements in substance use outcomes, emotional stability, and quality of life.

What to Expect

DBT at Haliford Health Group is woven into your personalised treatment plan alongside complementary modalities. Individual DBT sessions focus on personal challenges, behavioural patterns, and applying skills to your specific recovery goals. Group skills training provides a structured environment to learn and practise the four core skill areas with peer support.

Your therapist will work collaboratively with you, using diary cards and behavioural analysis to track progress and identify patterns. Sessions are practical and skills-focused, and you will leave each session with concrete tools you can apply immediately. DBT is particularly effective for individuals who experience emotional intensity, impulsive behaviours, or difficulties in relationships, making it a powerful complement to broader addiction treatment.