DBT Therapy in Hawaii

Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based therapy that is helpful in the treatment of substance use disorder (SUD) as well as mental health disorders like anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and other mental health conditions. It is a form of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), focusing on helping individuals change negative thinking patterns that are perpetuating substance use disorder and co-occurring mental health disorders to provoke positive behavioral change, challenge self-harm or self-destructive thinking patterns, and improve emotion regulation, self-compassion, and overall wellness. 

The term “dialectical” was created upon the idea that it bridges the gap between two opposite experiences in therapy–the experience of acceptance and change. 

It’s frequently thought that if an individual accepts an aspect of themself or their life, they won’t be able to change it. Individuals struggling with substance use disorders may feel as if they accept their addiction and that they will not be able to experience recovery. For someone with anxiety, they may feel that if they accept the anxious thoughts they are having, then they won’t be able to “get rid” of feelings and thoughts related to anxiety. 

However, as an individual learns to both embrace where they are in their recovery and what led them to use substances in the first place, they can begin making true changes in their lives and relationships that lead to long-term recovery and freedom from the use of substances. 

A DBT program is an evidence-based treatment that is most often used in in-person individual and group therapy, where individuals are guided to learn how acceptance leads to change while tracking emotions and behaviors that may be getting in the way of important life changes. In identifying the root of problematic habits, individuals are supported as they learn new DBT skills and tools to cope with emotional distress in ways that allow them to reach the goals they have for themselves in recovery. 

DBT works through the following four components of treatment: 

However, while DBT can be effective, this form of psychotherapy takes work, and working with a psychotherapist in individual therapy to overcome these challenges and maintain change is essential to your long-term sobriety and emotional well-being. 

Through extensive bodies of research, DBT is effective in the treatment of:

Overall, DBT is an evidence-based therapeutic modality that empowers individuals to become their own agents of change, promoting stability in their emotions, improved self-esteem, and navigating relationship issues and internal family systems. DBT creates new ways of thinking, behaviors, self-image, relationships, and life in general. 

Although the results of receiving DBT will vary from individual to individual, based on what they are struggling with and what their treatment goals are, several benefits include, but are not limited to: 

However, the skills training of effective DBT programs is best used in conjunction with other modalities. Combining DBT in Hawaii with other holistic approaches, like somatic experiencing, nature-based healing opportunities, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), mindfulness practices, and more, all work together to create a comprehensive and effective approach to change. 

Talking with DBT therapists about personal needs, goals, and challenges is part of using DBT in Hawaii for lasting, transformative change. 

Beginning recovery from substance use disorder typically begins at a rehab center specializing in treating substance use with supervised medical detox. During medical detox, individuals are supported by trained providers as they withdraw from any substances present in their system before beginning the next stage of treatment. Because of the adverse side effects that come with substance withdrawal, such as nausea, vomiting, muscle tremors, fever, and involuntary shaking, it is important that this process is done with trained healthcare professionals to keep those around them and themselves safe. 

After medical detox is over, many individuals enter residential treatment, often at the same drug rehab center where they went through medical detox, such as at Hawaii Island Recovery. At our premier drug rehab center on the Big Island of Hawaii, we offer medically supervised detox followed by treatment at our residential program to support individuals with their recovery needs. Before beginning their customized treatment programming, they first meet with a treatment team member to create an evidence-based and holistic treatment plan to fit where they are in recovery, the severity of the disorder, and the goals they have in their healing journey.

Substance use disorder and mental health disorders don’t go away after completing residential treatment. Because of this, many individuals often transition into lower levels of care after residential treatment, such as outpatient and aftercare planning, to continue being supported in their recovery. At Hawaii Island Recovery, our outpatient and aftercare planning is designed to support where you are as you reintegrate into “normal life.” Without aftercare and outpatient support, treatment is often not as effective or sustainable in the long term, which increases the risk of relapse and overdose. Both in-person and telehealth options are also available to ensure that you never feel alone in your ongoing healing journey. 

During DBT therapy in Hawaii, you will not only be supported as you experience healing and freedom, but to do so in a serene environment that encourages healing, growth, and freedom surrounded by nature. You will also be amongst peers on a similar journey as you, with the opportunity to create long-lasting memories and relationships. While taking that first step into treatment can be intimidating, there is always help and support available. We at Hawaii Island Recovery are prepared to help you set and manage expectations, navigate insurance, and create a program that fits your needs so you can confidently take your first step toward a transformed life. 

Recovery from substance abuse disorder is possible with evidence-based treatment plans that use therapeutic modalities such as dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) and other therapeutic and holistic approaches to treatment. To learn more about how you can begin treatment, call Hawaii Island Recovery, a Hawaii sober living and recovery center located on the Big Island, at (866) 390-5070.