Navigating strong emotions can be challenging, especially for those in recovery. Dialectical behavior therapy, or DBT, empowers you to understand your feelings, develop practical coping strategies, and nurture stronger, healthier relationships without coping with substance use.
At Spring Grove Recovery in Colorado Springs, DBT is an essential part of our trauma-informed therapy programs. Our licensed clinicians guide you through DBT to build resilience, greater emotional balance, and the confidence to face life’s challenges with hope and support.
What is DBT?
Originally developed by Dr. Marsha Linehan, DBT is especially helpful for people who feel overwhelmed by emotions or stuck in patterns of reactive or self-destructive behavior. “Dialectical” refers to the balance of acceptance and change—DBT teaches you to accept yourself, while also working toward meaningful, positive growth.
At Spring Grove Recovery, we use DBT to help you:
Understand and manage intense or painful emotions
Cope with distress and avoid returning to substances and/or self-harm
Communicate more calmly and clearly with loved ones
Build a life that feels stable, dignified, and fulfilling
Who DBT supports
DBT is often recommended for a range of behavioral and mental health conditions, especially those involving moods or impulsive actions that disrupt daily life. It can provide hope and practical tools for people:
- With borderline personality disorder (BPD) and mood instability
- Managing impulsivity or emotional outbursts
- Who struggle with self-harm or suicidal thoughts
- Coping with PTSD, depression, or anxiety
- In recovery from addiction and need new coping skills
The four core DBT skills
Our therapists structure sessions around the four fundamental skills of DBT, each designed to support your overall well-being, both in treatment and beyond:
Mindfulness
Distress tolerance
Emotion regulation
Interpersonal effectiveness
The team at Spring Grove Recovery offers steady support as you use these skills in real-life situations, helping you grow in confidence every step of the way.
How DBT works: Structure and approach
DBT at Spring Grove Recovery is delivered in a combination of individual sessions, group skill-building, and ongoing support:
Individual therapy
Group skills training
Skills coaching and support
Therapist team consultation
Stages of DBT treatment
DBT unfolds in stages, meeting you where you are and guiding you forward:
- Stage 1: Address immediate risks such as self-harm or unsafe behaviors
- Stage 2: Work through lingering emotional pain and disrupt unhelpful habits
- Stage 3: Strengthen self-esteem and rebuild trusting relationships
- Stage 4: Discover purpose, meaning, and connection in your recovery journey
The timeline varies, but you may notice increased stability and coping skills within just a few weeks. Many continue using DBT tools as part of their ongoing recovery.
Why choose DBT? Evidence-based benefits
Decades of research show that DBT is a leading therapy for emotional regulation, relapse prevention, and overall mental health improvement.
Benefits include:
- Lower rates of self-harm and hospital admissions
- Greater emotional resilience and life satisfaction
- Enhanced problem-solving and relationship skills
The DBT program at Spring Grove Recovery
At our Colorado Springs treatment center, DBT is woven into our trauma-informed, evidence-based care for addiction and co-occurring mental health concerns.
You can expect:
- A gentle, thorough assessment to identify your priorities for emotional healing
- Regular individual therapy and group skills training
- Compassionate, specially trained clinicians in DBT, CBT, and trauma recovery
- A supportive environment that adapts to your pace and needs
Our team is dedicated to creating a space where you feel respected, encouraged, and empowered to heal.
Program availability
Our DBT services are available within our detox and residential programs in Colorado Springs, Colorado. You’ll take part in both individual and group therapy sessions facilitated by experienced, compassionate clinicians.
How DBT compares to other therapies
Understanding the differences between therapies can help you find the best fit. Here’s a brief comparison:
Therapy Type
Focus
Key Features
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Emotional regulation and relationships
Combines mindfulness with practical change strategies
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Thinking patterns and behaviors
Focuses primarily on thoughts, less on emotions
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Values-driven action
Centers on acceptance and flexible, value-based action
Our therapists often recommend a blend of DBT and other therapies. We develop a personalized therapy plan for every client we help.
Getting started with DBT
It all begins with a confidential conversation to understand your needs and hopes for the future.
Our process includes:
- A gentle intake assessment and care planning session
- A schedule customized to include both group and individual DBT sessions
- Ongoing encouragement and feedback as you grow in your skills
- Assistance with insurance verification and any logistics you need help with
We’re here every step of the way, answering questions and offering support to ease your transition into care so you know exactly what to expect.
Start DBT at Spring Grove Recovery
Learning to manage emotions can be transformative. With the caring support of our team and the structured guidance of DBT, you can find balance, strengthen your relationships, and build a brighter, more stable future.
We invite you to reach out to our admissions specialists in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Call us today or connect online to get started with DBT and begin your journey toward healing and hope.
Frequently asked questions about DBT
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by emotions, acting impulsively, or struggling in your relationships—or seeking new strategies for sobriety or mental health—DBT might be a great fit. Our team can help you decide during your initial assessment.
Most DBT programs range from several weeks to several months, based on your needs. Many find the skills learned here useful for years to come.
Yes—practicing DBT skills like mindfulness or journaling between sessions helps reinforce new habits. We’ll support you in making these practices part of your daily routine.
Absolutely. Scheduled check-ins and skills coaching are available as needed, so you never have to navigate tough moments alone.
Most commercial insurers and Health First Colorado (CO Medicaid) cover DBT when provided as part of a structured treatment program. We’re happy to help you verify your benefits.
