Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) are both types of talk therapy. While there are many similarities, there are also some differences between DBT vs CBT. Depending on the treatment center, clients may use both therapy options as they undergo the recovery process.

What Is DBT Vs CBT?

A cognitive behavioral therapy program is a type of psychotherapy. During therapy, the individual talks to a mental health professional about certain challenges and learns new skills for managing these obstacles. CBT teaches the individual how thoughts, behaviors, and feelings affect each other. During CBT, the individual learns how to use the relationship between their thoughts and behaviors to their advantage. By changing one thing like a thought, the client can change other factors as well. This approach is popular for treating eating disorders, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. CBT is generally a structured, short-term program. It helps the patient look at how their addiction or mental disorder affects their life. Then, the patient learns problem-solving strategies and new skills to help them deal with these problems later on. People often compare DBT vs CBT because these treatments are fairly similar. The basis of DBT is actually from CBT. For DBT, there is a larger focus on social and emotional aspects. With DBT, people learn how to cope with harmful behaviors and extreme emotions. This evidence-based approach is popular for treating illnesses like borderline personality disorder and self-harm. Like any talk therapy, it can take time for DBT’s results to start taking effect.

What Are the Main Differences Between DBT Vs CBT?

Through addiction therapy services, clients may be able to use DBT or CBT. The main differences between DBT vs CBT are with relationships and validation. DBT teaches that relationships and feelings are important. Counselors encourage you to accept who you are and to talk about your ongoing problems. In DBT, the client receives help for managing emotions, practicing acceptance, coping with stress and building strong relationships. Both CBT and DBT focus on changing behaviors. Through these therapy programs, individuals can talk about their problems and learn a better way of living.

Discovering Help for an Addiction

With Pennsylvania addiction recovery services, clients can find therapies like CBT and DBT. Each person has a unique experience with their addiction, mental illnesses, and past rehab visits. Because of this, the right program offers a customized treatment that meets the client’s personal needs. At the treatment center, patients can find care and support through options such as:

  • Individual therapy and counseling
  • Addiction education
  • Partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient and outpatient programs
  • Dual diagnosis treatment and psychotherapy
  • Addiction interventions and aftercare programs
  • Family therapy and educational involvement

Dealing with substance abuse can be challenging at times, but no one has to suffer alone. Through Steps to Recovery, you can find the compassionate care and evidence-based treatments that you need to become sober. Find out more about how we can help by calling us at 267.719.8528 today.