Written by: Banyan Editorial Staff | Medically reviewed by: Dr. Darrin Mangiacarne - Chief Medical Officer | Edited: February 2026
Recovery is complicated by intense emotions, past trauma, or harmful behaviors that feel impossible to control. Addiction may develop as a way to cope, but without addressing the underlying emotional struggles, relapse often follows. Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is a specialized, evidence-based treatment that balances acceptance and change. At Banyan Treatment Centers, our DBT program helps clients manage emotions, reduce self-destructive patterns, and build the resilience needed for long-term recovery from addiction and co-occurring mental health challenges.
What is Dialectical Behavior Therapy?
DBT is a form of cognitive-behavioral therapy originally developed for individuals experiencing extreme mood swings, self-harm, or suicidal thoughts.[1] Over time, it has been adapted to support people in addiction treatment as well.
The therapy focuses on four key skill areas:
- Mindfulness – increasing awareness of thoughts and emotions without judgment.
- Distress tolerance – managing crises without turning to substances or harmful behaviors.
- Emotion regulation – understanding and reducing vulnerability to intense emotions.
- Interpersonal effectiveness – building healthier relationships and setting boundaries.
Unlike traditional talk therapy, DBT is structured, skills-based, and highly practical. It helps clients address addiction triggers while also supporting recovery from conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD, or borderline personality disorder.
The Process: What a DBT Session Consists Of
DBT sessions at Banyan blend individual counseling and group skills training, with between-session coaching available.
A typical DBT program combines individual therapy to explore thought patterns, set goals, and strengthen emotional regulation with group skills training that reinforces the four DBT modules.
Clients are also encouraged to complete homework and practice skills in real-world situations, applying what they’ve learned to daily stressors and cravings.
To further support progress, ongoing coaching may be available to help individuals implement DBT strategies during moments of crisis.
Recovery via Therapy: How DBT Helps in Addiction
Addiction often thrives in cycles of overwhelming emotions, impulsive decisions, and unhealthy coping strategies. DBT directly targets these vulnerabilities.
For example:
- Someone tempted to drink after an argument may instead use distress tolerance skills like self-soothing or distraction.
- A person experiencing anxiety that fuels cravings may rely on mindfulness to ground themselves in the present moment.
- Clients who once lashed out in relationships can use interpersonal effectiveness skills to express needs without conflict.
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Benefits of Dialectical Behavior Therapy
A pattern of behavior that is most common among addicts is pushing their loved ones away.
Many individuals with drug or alcohol abuse problems struggle to maintain healthy relationships with others. Not only can their addiction affect the way their mind works, but they may also act out in ways they normally wouldn’t in order to get high.
Even high-functioning addicts eventually run into relationship problems. While unhealthy relationships can result from substance abuse, they can also cause it. Regardless of the circumstances, the individual’s thought patterns and behaviors need to change for a full recovery.
DBT has been proven to reduce relapse risk and improve overall well-being in people facing addiction and complex emotional struggles.[2] Key benefits include:
- Improved emotional regulation, reducing the urge to self-medicate with substances.
- Greater distress tolerance, providing healthier alternatives during crises.
- Strengthened relationships, helping clients repair trust and set healthy boundaries.
- Lower relapse rates occur as individuals gain tools to manage triggers and stress.
- Improved mental health stability, easing symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD, or BPD.
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Types of Disorders Treated by DBT
Substance Abuse Treatment
DBT is particularly powerful in addiction treatment because it targets the emotions and behaviors that often drive substance use.
By teaching distress tolerance and mindfulness, DBT treatment for addiction helps individuals pause before turning to drugs or alcohol, reducing relapse risk and promoting healthier choices. At Banyan, DBT therapy is used to support recovery from:
- Alcohol addiction
- Opioid and fentanyl misuse
- Prescription drug dependence
- Stimulant addiction (cocaine, meth, Adderall)
- Polysubstance use
Mental Health Disorders
While DBT is highly effective for substance use disorders, it was originally designed to treat mental health conditions marked by intense emotions and impulsive behaviors.
Many people entering treatment struggle with both addiction and mental health challenges, and DBT is uniquely suited to address both. By blending mindfulness, acceptance, and practical skill-building, DBT supports recovery from:
- Depression and anxiety, which often fuel substance use.
- Trauma and PTSD, where emotional regulation is critical for healing.
- Borderline personality disorder, where DBT is considered the gold-standard therapy.[3]
- Self-harm or suicidal thoughts, providing immediate, actionable tools for safety.
- Other conditions involving emotional dysregulation, such as eating disorders or OCD tendencies.
Co-Occurring Disorders
Many individuals with addiction also live with complex emotional or mental health struggles. DBT is one of the most effective therapies for addressing these dual challenges.
- Many individuals use alcohol to cope with sadness, stress, or social fears, which can deepen both dependence and depression.
- Painkillers and fentanyl are often used to numb emotional pain, especially for those with unresolved trauma.[8]
- Long-term stimulant use can intensify anxiety, create manic-like symptoms, or trigger depressive crashes.
- Misuse of benzodiazepines or sedatives often develops from attempts to manage chronic worry or panic.
By addressing both addiction and co-occurring mental health conditions, DBT creates a stronger, more sustainable path to recovery.
During their time at our addiction treatment center, patients will have the opportunity to participate in a variety of therapies and programs, including psychotherapy, mindfulness, and yoga. These programs are held in both individual and group settings, giving the patient opportunities for one-on-one time with therapists and time to build peer support.
In order to help patients acquire these tools, we incorporate a variety of therapies in each of our levels of care that address different aspects of the individual’s condition. Every patient who walks through our doors is different, so we want to make sure we’re offering individualized care that will meet their needs.
If you or a loved one is struggling with substance abuse, contact us or call us at (855) 908-0663 today for more information about our DBT programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for veterans is a structured, evidence-based program designed to meet the unique needs of military personnel and veterans. It combines traditional DBT principles with trauma-informed care to help veterans manage emotions, process experiences, and build long-term coping skills.[9]
- Assessment: A thorough evaluation helps the therapist understand each veteran’s background, challenges, and goals.
- Stabilization: Focuses on managing crises, regulating emotions, and improving distress tolerance.
- Skills Training: Veterans practice mindfulness, communication, and emotional regulation in supportive group settings.
- Trauma Processing: Addresses post-traumatic stress and other trauma-related issues through evidence-based methods.
- Relapse Prevention: Teaches coping strategies to reduce triggers and maintain progress after therapy.
- Maintenance: Supports a smooth transition from treatment into daily life, reinforcing independence and resilience.
- Stage 1 – Stabilization and Safety: The first step focuses on reducing dangerous behaviors like self-harm or suicidal thoughts and creating emotional stability.
- Stage 2 – Emotional Processing: Once safety is established, therapy helps individuals manage emotions, strengthen relationships, and build distress tolerance.
- Stage 3 – Self-Worth and Relationships: Focuses on improving self-esteem and developing healthy, supportive connections with others.
- Stage 4 – Personal Growth: Encourages individuals to find fulfillment, pursue personal goals, and live in alignment with their values.
Yes, in most cases, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is covered by health insurance. Under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), mental health care must be covered at the same level as medical or surgical treatments.[4] If your plan covers doctor visits or procedures, it should also cover therapy services like DBT.
- Check your plan: Call the number on your insurance card or log into your member portal to confirm benefits and any limits.
- Verify network status: Some therapists accept insurance directly; others are out-of-network but may provide a superbill for reimbursement.
- Ask about reimbursement: If out-of-network, you may still get partial repayment for sessions paid upfront.
Learn more at HealthCare.gov’s mental health coverage page.
Yes, both Medicare and Medicaid generally cover DBT.
- Medicaid: Typically covers therapy like DBT as part of behavioral health benefits. See Medicaid mental health services.
- Medicare: Under Medicare Part B outpatient mental health, DBT with licensed professionals is often covered.
To find a provider who accepts Medicare or Medicaid, try FindTreatment.gov.
Find a DBT Program Near You
Dialectical behavior therapy provides more than just coping strategies—it offers a balanced, evidence-based approach to treating both addiction and mental health challenges. At Banyan Treatment Centers, our DBT program provides clients with the structure, support, and practical skills they need to stabilize their emotions, strengthen relationships, and build a lasting recovery.
Residential Options for DBT
Within our inpatient programs, DBT is woven into daily treatment, giving clients a structured environment to practice behavioral skills, stabilize emotions, and focus fully on recovery. Find one of our inpatient centers near you:
Outpatient Solutions for DBT
For those balancing treatment with work, school, or family, DBT is available through outpatient care (including telehealth, day treatment, and intensive outpatient programs), helping clients apply these skills in real-world settings.
If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction and overwhelming emotions, DBT may be the right path forward. Verify your insurance or complete our contact form today to learn more about dialectical behavior therapy at Banyan.
