Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Substance Use Disorders (DBT-SUD)

A compassionate, evidence-based adaptation of DBT designed to help individuals reduce substance use, strengthen coping skills, and build long-term stability in recovery.

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Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Addiction Recovery

A structured program combining individual therapy, group skills, and phone coaching to support long-term sobriety and emotional stability.

Best for

Substance use disorders, dual diagnosis (mental health + addiction), relapse prevention.

Session format

Individual + Group + Phone coaching + Family support, In person or Virtual

Typical cadence

Weekly individual sessions + weekly group sessions, Session length: 45–120 minutes

Duration

6–12 months or longer

Often combined with

Detox, residential treatment, MAT (medication-assisted treatment), trauma therapy, sober living

Evidence base

Research-supported adaptation of DBT proven effective in reducing substance use and relapse risk

What Is Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Substance Use Disorders (DBT-SUD)?

Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Substance Use Disorders is a specialized form of DBT designed for individuals struggling with addiction. It integrates DBT skills including mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness with addiction-focused strategies that target cravings, triggers, and relapse cycles.

A central principle of DBT-SUD is dialectical abstinence, which encourages clients to fully commit to recovery while recognizing that relapse may occur. Instead of shame, DBT-SUD teaches people how to re-commit quickly, reduce harm, and continue building long-term stability.

How Dialectical Behaviour Therapy for Substance Use Disorders Helps in Recovery

Blending proven behavioural therapy with specialized addiction treatment for long-term healing

Supports abstinence and relapse prevention

Builds accountability while reducing shame if setbacks happen

Strengthens coping skills

Teaches alternatives to using substances when emotions feel overwhelming

Reduces high-risk behaviors

Focuses on safety planning and crisis management

Encourages long-term growth

Combines addiction recovery with emotional regulation and relationship skills

What to Expect in Sessions

DBT-SUD includes the full structure of Standard DBT plus addiction-focused strategies:

Individual therapy: Weekly sessions focused on addiction recovery goals
Group skills training: Learning DBT’s four modules with an emphasis on relapse prevention and cravings management
Phone coaching: Immediate support during cravings or high-risk situations
Therapist consultation teams: Clinicians meet to coordinate addiction-focused care
Addiction-specific skills: Targeting cravings, building sober routines, managing urges, and practicing dialectical abstinence

Who Benefits from Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Substance Use Disorders? (DBT-SUD)

Support for Individuals Navigating Both Substance Use and Emotional Regulation Challenges

Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Substance Use Disorders is designed for people who experience both substance use struggles and intense emotions, urges, or behavioral patterns that feel hard to manage. DBT-SUD combines powerful emotional regulation tools with evidence-based strategies for reducing substance use, preventing relapse, and creating healthier, more stable daily routines.

Support for Addiction Recovery

Individuals struggling with alcohol, drugs, or behavioral addictions

Help for Dual Diagnosis

People with dual diagnosis (addiction + mental health conditions like anxiety)

Relapse Prevention Support

Those at risk of frequent relapse or unsafe coping behaviors

Guidance for Families

Families who want to support recovery with clear structure and skills

Compassionate Addiction Care

Anyone seeking a practical, non-judgmental approach to addiction treatment

Why TruPaths Highlights Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Substance Use Disorders (DBT-SUD)

Combining DBT skills with strategies to manage substance use

TruPaths highlights DBT-SUD because it bridges the gap between emotional healing and addiction recovery. It’s compassionate yet practical, helping people commit to sobriety while developing the tools to bounce back from setbacks without shame. Programs we feature integrate DBT-SUD with detox, MAT, residential rehab, and sober living for a full continuum of care.

FAQs About Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Substance Use Disorders (DBT-SUD)

How is DBT-SUD different from Standard DBT?

DBT-SUD uses the same structure but adds relapse prevention tools, dialectical abstinence, and addiction-focused coping strategies.

Can DBT-SUD be combined with medication-assisted treatment (MAT)?

Yes. DBT-SUD works well alongside MAT, detox, and psychiatric support.

Does DBT-SUD support harm reduction?

Yes. It balances the commitment to abstinence with compassionate harm reduction, so progress continues even if relapse occurs.

Does insurance cover DBT-SUD?

Often, yes. TruPaths providers list accepted insurance, self-pay rates, and financial options.

How long does DBT-SUD last?

Most programs run 6–12 months, though duration depends on recovery needs.

Does DBT-SUD help with cravings and urges?

Yes, DBT-SUD teaches coping skills that reduce cravings and help you manage urges without acting on them.

Find Recovery Options Offering DBT-SUD

Recovery is possible. DBT-SUD offers structure, compassion, and practical tools for overcoming addiction. Explore programs that integrate DBT-SUD with detox, rehab, and sober living.