The two most common types of therapy are cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). Both are effective for treating a variety of mental health conditions, but they’re different in a few key ways.

Understanding the differences between CBT and DBT can be enlightening to you or a loved one who is struggling with addiction. Our dialectical behavior or cognitive-behavioral therapy program at Prairie Recovery in North Dakota helps people understand and work through their unique challenges. Call us at 844.979.4310 today and learn more.

Understanding CBT Vs. DBT

Understanding CBT vs. DBT helps provide the best possible care for our clients. Both therapy branches are based on the premise that our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors are all interconnected. They’re both considered “talk therapy” because the therapist and patient work together to identify and change thought patterns and behaviors and develop new coping skills.

What Is CBT?

Cognitive-behavioral therapy is a type of therapy that helps people change their negative thinking patterns and behavior. CBT is based on the idea that our thoughts and feelings affect our actions. So, if we can change our thoughts, we can change our behavior.

CBT has been proven to be an effective treatment for mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, eating disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and substance abuse.

Each session lasts for about 50-60 minutes, and it consists of a highly structured type of therapy. Your therapist will likely give you homework to do between sessions. This homework may include journaling, practicing new skills, or exposure therapy (facing your fears in a controlled setting).

What Is DBT?

Dialectical behavior therapy is a type of therapy that was created to treat borderline personality disorder (BPD). BPD is a mental health condition that is characterized by impulsivity, mood swings, and chaotic relationships.

DBT is a type of cognitive-behavioral therapy, and it has been shown to be an effective treatment for BPD, as well as other mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and substance abuse.

Dialectical means “two things that are opposite but interconnected.” So, in DBT, we learn to balance two opposites: acceptance and change.

The skills you learn in DBT can help you in all areas of your life. DBT skills include mindfulness, emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness, which can help you be more present and aware of your thoughts and feelings.

Similarities Between CBT and DBT

Both DBT and CBT are talk therapies that aim to help people change negative thinking and behavior patterns. Both therapies place emphasis on the present rather than dwelling on the past and can be done in individual and group settings.

Both therapies use homework assignments, such as journaling, to help people practice what they’re learning in therapy and to help people become more aware of their thoughts and actions.

Differences Between CBT and DBT

There are some differences between DBT and CBT, which may make one type of therapy a better fit for you than the other.

• DBT focuses on building skills to help people tolerate distress and manage emotions, while CBT focuses on changing negative thinking and behavior patterns.

• DBT emphasizes the balance between acceptance and change, while CBT focuses on changing thoughts and behaviors.

Which Therapy Is Right for Me?

The best way to know if CBT vs. DBT is suitable fot you is to consult with our mental health professional. They can help you understand your challenges and which type of therapy may be the best fit for you. Both therapy types are excellent choices that have helped many people achieve sobriety and improved mental health.

Prairie Recovery Can Make a Difference in Your Recovery

If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, our dialectical behavior therapy or cognitive behavioral therapy program at Prairie Recovery in North Dakota can help. We provide a safe and supportive environment for healing and growth. Contact us today at 844.979.4310 to learn more.