Treating Substance Use Disorder with Dialectical Behavioral Therapy for LGBTQ+ People

One size does not fit all in LGBTQ+ addiction recovery. Though every queer person struggling with substance abuse disorder or drug addiction can get better, there isn’t a single path that will lead all of them to a lasting solution. The good news is that there are different treatment options available to match the needs of each LGBTQ+ individual. If you or an LGBTQ+ loved one is struggling with substance abuse, you’ve likely encountered mentions of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and its potential effectiveness. While it might sound complicated, it’s a valuable tool. DBT is a unique approach that combines ancient mindfulness techniques with modern psychology, offering one a chance to manage your addiction at its roots and regain control of your life. Rooted in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) principles, this approach encourages one to explore your inner world with curiosity rather than judgment, opening up new avenues for healing.

Why Use Dialectical Behavioral Therapy for LGBTQ+ Addiction?

As part of a comprehensive treatment program for substance use addiction, DBT LGBTQ+ participants receive individual and group counseling as well as addiction education. Though DBT was initially developed as a therapeutic approach for individuals unable to access CBT due to suicidal ideation or borderline personality disorder, it has become a tool that makes a difference for LGBTQ+ people dealing with a variety of psychological disorders, including addiction. With the goal of “building a life worth living,” here are some of the attributes that make DBT an effective tool in substance use addiction recovery:

• It is Skills-based. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) offers a powerful solution for individuals struggling with drug addiction, alcohol, and substance use disorders. Through practical exercises and coping skills, the therapy teaches LGBTQ+ individuals to manage emotions effectively, reframe negative thoughts, and develop a more balanced approach to living. This evidence-based approach recognizes that unwanted thoughts and behaviors are learned and reinforced. By unlearning these patterns, individuals can develop healthier habits and improve their overall well-being. Even though DBT requires effort and commitment, the benefits are substantial. By incorporating DBT skills into daily life, LGBTQ+ individuals can reduce emotional intensity, increase resilience, improve problem-solving abilities, enhance self-esteem, and develop a more positive outlook.
• It is Validating. In DBT, the therapist can help the LGBTQ+ person move forward by learning to understand and accept their emotions and actions as valid.
• It is Goal-oriented.
  
  DBT is implemented to impact behavioral change on the queer individual. Though the overall goal may be long-term sobriety, smaller incremental goals will build the individual to that point with confidence.
• It is Hierarchical. DBT goals are hierarchical. The highest priority goal will target the most life-threatening or self-destructive behaviors of the LGBTQ+ person. Secondary goals will decrease behaviors of the person that interfere with therapy. Additional goals then target improving the LGBTQ+ person’s quality of life. Multiple goals may be in progress simultaneously, however, priorities are emphasized.

How DBT Can Help the LGBTQ+ Individual Recover from Addiction 

Some of the most dangerous triggers to substance use addiction and relapse are unmanaged stress and negative emotions. These can be triggered by homophobia, stigma, discrimination, isolation, and places or events associated with addiction. Dialectical behavior therapy helps the LGBTQ person learn healthy ways to cope with these personal triggers, using mindfulness, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and emotion regulation. Addiction professionals use several evidence-based treatment approaches in substance use addiction recovery. Often a combination of one or more modalities is most effective in this regard. DBT may be used on its own or in combination with other therapies to achieve this.

DBT and Relapse in an LGBTQ+ Person

Substance use addiction can be a chronic, relapsing disease, which means if the LGBTQ+ person does not have a long-term recovery plan in place, their danger of relapse increases. Even if the person experiences a relapse, they are encouraged to view it as part of recovery. Relapse may signal a need for changes to their treatment plan and additional support services. Therapists who use DBT do not view relapse as a failure. Instead, relapse signals the need to understand the cause of their return to substance use and how to decrease the risk of a future relapse. If the LGBTQ+ person takes an active role in your recovery, they are more likely to achieve long-term success. Practitioners of DBT expect the LGBTQ+ individual to keep up with regular “homework” assignments throughout the treatment process. Many of these assignments allow them to practice and improve the coping skills they are learning in their sessions. The more the individual practices these coping skills, the more those skills strengthen until they become second nature.

Don’t Delay. Seek Help

If you or your LGBTQ+ loved one is battling substance abuse, DBT can help. At Inspire Recovery, we specialize in personalized DBT approaches using evidence-based programs. Many of our LGBTQ+ clients respond well to emotional regulation, mindfulness, and other aspects of DBT. Now, it’s your time to get free from substance abuse. Please contact us today at 561-677-2745 for further information and guidance. Our team would be glad to help you.