Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) in Peabody, MA

Emotional Stability & Recovery Through DBT at Boston Addiction Treatment

At Boston Addiction Treatment, we use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to help clients build emotional regulation, resilience, and interpersonal effectiveness — especially those struggling with addiction, addiction-associated trauma, chronic mental health conditions, or intense emotional responses to substance use.

DBT is a powerful, evidence-based therapy originally developed for individuals with borderline personality disorder but is now widely used to support people in recovery from substance use and mental health conditions, often as they co-occur

What Is DBT?

Dialectical Behavior Therapy is a structured form of talk therapy that focuses on balancing acceptance and change. Clients learn how to tolerate distress, manage powerful emotions, and improve how they interact with others — all while developing skills to avoid destructive behaviors.

DBT emphasizes four core skill areas:

1. Mindfulness – Staying present in the moment without judgment
2. Distress Tolerance – Surviving emotional pain without making it worse
3. Emotion Regulation – Understanding and managing intense feelings
4. Interpersonal Effectiveness – Navigating relationships with confidence and respect

DBT is often integrated into treatment plans for those with dual-diagnoses (mental health co-occurring with addiction) or emotional dysregulation contributing to addiction.

Who Can Benefit from DBT?

DBT is particularly effective for individuals who experience:

• Intense mood swings or emotional outbursts
• Difficulty managing anger, sadness, or anxiety
• Patterns of self-harm or suicidal thoughts
• Co-occurring disorders such as borderline personality disorder, PTSD, or addiction
• Struggles with healthy boundaries in relationships

Many clients find DBT helpful when traditional talk therapy hasn’t been enough.

How DBT Works at Boston Addiction

Our DBT services are offered in both individual and group settings, depending on the client’s needs. DBT therapy is led by licensed, master’s-level clinicians trained in DBT techniques, and may be integrated into broader outpatient or intensive outpatient programs.

What makes DBT at Boston Addiction Treatment unique:

• Safe, nonjudgmental environment
• Structured, goal-driven sessions
• Emphasis on practical tools and skill-building
• Support for high-risk or emotionally sensitive clients
• Flexible access: in-person or virtual care across Massachusetts

DBT in Addiction Treatment

For clients in addiction treatment, DBT can be a game-changer. Many people turn to substances to cope with overwhelming emotions, past trauma, or interpersonal conflict. DBT helps break that cycle by:

• Increasing emotional stability
• Teaching healthier coping mechanisms
• Reducing relapse risk by addressing triggers
• Building self-awareness and self-control
• Strengthening relationships and social support

Take the Next Step with Boston Addiction

If you’re ready to build emotional strength and take back control of your life, Dialectical Behavior Therapy can help. Whether you’re struggling with addiction or painful and debilitating mental health issues, Boston Addiction offers personalized treatment that blends clinical expertise with compassionate support — available in-person or online.