Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) in Residential Mental Health Treatment

Learn to Regulate Emotions, Manage Stress, and Build Healthier Relationships

Learn to Regulate Emotions, Manage Stress, and Build Healthier Relationships

Do you feel like your emotions come on too strong — or too fast? Do you struggle with black-and-white thinking, self-destructive behaviors, or intense interpersonal conflict? You’re not alone. These patterns are often symptoms of emotional dysregulation, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is one of the most effective treatments to address them.

At First Light Recovery, DBT is a foundational part of our residential mental health program, especially for clients with mood disorders, borderline personality disorder, self-harm, or chronic emotional instability. DBT gives clients the tools to ride out emotional waves, reduce impulsivity, and create a life rooted in balance and connection.

What Is DBT

Originally for borderline personality disorder, DBT is now a gold-standard therapy for emotion regulation. It combines CBT with mindfulness to balance change and self-acceptance.
DBT Teaches Four Core Skills
Learn to Regulate Emotions, Manage Stress, and Build Healthier Relationships

How DBT Works at First Light Recovery

DBT is a core part of our program, practiced daily with expert guidance for lasting growth.
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[Individual Therapy] with a DBT-informed clinician

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[Group Therapy] focused on teaching and practicing DBT skills

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Real-time coaching and skill application with 24/7 staff

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Emotion tracking and behavioral chain analysis

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Assignments and journals to reinforce growth

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Integration with [CBT], [Trauma-Informed Care], and [Holistic Therapy]

DBT Is Especially Helpful For

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Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)

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Depression with emotional instability

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Self-harming behaviors or suicidal ideation

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Trauma survivors with high emotional reactivity

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Interpersonal conflict or frequent relationship breakdowns

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Anxiety with compulsive coping (e.g., lashing out, shutting down)

Why Our Clients Thrive With DBT at First Light Recovery
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Small groups and personalized attention in homes with only 6 clients each

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Licensed DBT-trained clinicians who provide real-time support and feedback

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Trauma-informed environment that emphasizes emotional safety and pacing

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Clients can practice DBT skills in real life, with electronics, outings, and community involvement

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True mental health focus — not a dual diagnosis or rehab setting

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In-network with Kaiser, Anthem, Aetna, Cigna, Optum, and more

What DBT Success Looks Like

What DBT Success Looks Like

DBT changed everything. For the first time, I had a plan when I felt overwhelmed — and I knew how to get through it without breaking down. – Former Client
Start Your Journey Toward Healing Today

If you’re struggling with your mental health, you don’t have to face it alone. First Light Recovery offers compassionate care, expert treatment, and a real-world approach to empower you.