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DBT Therapy in Lawrenceville, NJ

DBT targets emotional roots of addiction while teaching practical skills for recovery. Learn how We Level Up NJ integrates DBT into treatment programs.


By We Level Up Lawrenceville NJ | Author Susan Egbert, PharmD | Editorial Policy | Research Policy

Introduction to DBT for Addiction

Addiction doesn’t just change behaviors—it transforms lives, relationships, and futures. For many New Jersey residents struggling with substance use disorders, traditional treatment approaches sometimes fall short of addressing the complex emotional landscape that fuels addiction.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) offers a powerful alternative. This evidence-based approach targets the emotional roots of addiction while building practical skills for lasting recovery. At We Level Up NJ, we’ve integrated comprehensive DBT protocols into our addiction treatment programs, creating pathways to recovery that address both the symptoms and underlying causes of substance use disorders.

Our mission isn’t just about helping you stop using substances—it’s about empowering you to build a life worth living, where recovery becomes sustainable through emotional resilience and practical coping strategies.

What is DBT?

Dialectical Behavior Therapy was originally developed by psychologist Marsha Linehan in the late 1980s to treat borderline personality disorder. What began as a specialized treatment has evolved into one of the most effective therapeutic approaches for a range of conditions—including addiction.

At its core, DBT embraces a fundamental dialectic: the balance between acceptance and change. This philosophy acknowledges that recovery requires both accepting yourself exactly as you are right now while simultaneously working toward positive transformation. It’s not about shame or judgment—it’s about meeting yourself where you are and building from there.

Unlike traditional cognitive behavioral therapy, DBT places special emphasis on validation and emotional regulation. The approach recognizes that many people with addiction struggle not because they lack willpower, but because they lack effective tools to manage overwhelming emotions and distressing situations.

DBT differs from standard talk therapy because it’s highly structured and skills-based. Rather than just processing feelings, DBT actively teaches concrete techniques that clients can apply immediately in challenging situations.

This practical focus makes DBT particularly valuable for addiction treatment, where the ability to navigate triggers, cravings, and high-risk situations can make the difference between continued recovery and relapse.

female doctor explains dbt benefits to patient

How DBT Helps in Addiction Recovery

The connection between emotional dysregulation and addiction creates a challenging cycle. Many people turn to substances precisely because they struggle to manage difficult emotions—then the substance use further impairs their emotional regulation abilities. Breaking this cycle requires more than just abstinence; it demands new skills and perspectives.

DBT directly addresses this challenge by targeting the emotional vulnerabilities that drive addictive behaviors. According to a study in the Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment, approximately 8.9 million adults in the United States have co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders—conditions which can use DBT’s integrated approach as a potential treatment choice.

The therapy equips individuals with practical tools to:

  • Recognize and name emotions before they escalate to overwhelming levels
  • Tolerate distress without resorting to substance use
  • Navigate triggering situations with mindful awareness
  • Build healthier relationships that support recovery
  • Make decisions aligned with recovery goals rather than momentary impulses

DBT’s effectiveness stems from its comprehensive approach. Rather than focusing solely on abstinence, it builds a foundation of emotional resilience that supports long-term recovery. By addressing the underlying emotional drivers of addiction, DBT helps create sustainable change that extends far beyond the treatment period.

The skills learned in DBT become lifelong tools for managing not just addiction but the full spectrum of life’s challenges—from relationship conflicts to work stress to personal setbacks.

This holistic focus makes DBT particularly valuable for creating lasting recovery.

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DBT Techniques Used at We Level Up NJ

At We Level Up NJ, our DBT program incorporates all four core modules of traditional DBT, each specially adapted to address addiction recovery challenges. These modules work together to create a comprehensive toolkit for managing emotions, relationships, and behaviors.

Mindfulness Skills

Mindfulness forms the foundation of all other DBT skills. In our addiction-focused approach, we teach clients to:

  • Observe cravings without automatically acting on them
  • Notice triggers as they arise in real-time
  • Develop awareness of emotional states that precede substance use
  • Practice present-moment focus to interrupt rumination about past use or future cravings

Distress Tolerance

For many people with addiction, substances become the primary way to cope with emotional pain. Our distress tolerance module teaches alternative strategies for managing difficult emotions without relapse:

  • TIPP skills (Temperature change, Intense exercise, Paced breathing, Progressive muscle relaxation) for immediate distress reduction
  • Distraction techniques specifically designed to weather cravings
  • Self-soothing practices using all five senses
  • Radical acceptance of current challenges without resorting to substances

These skills prove especially valuable during early recovery when emotional intensity often peaks. By providing concrete alternatives to substance use during distressing moments, distress tolerance skills help bridge the gap between the desire for recovery and the practical ability to maintain it.

Emotion Regulation

Emotion regulation skills address the core emotional vulnerabilities that often drive addiction. Our therapists work with clients to:

  • Identify and label emotions with nuance and precision
  • Reduce emotional vulnerability through proper self-care
  • Increase positive emotional experiences to counter cravings
  • Apply opposite action techniques when emotions drive harmful behaviors

These skills help clients understand the connection between their emotional states and substance use patterns, creating opportunities to intervene before emotions trigger cravings.

Interpersonal Effectiveness

Addiction often damages relationships, yet strong social connections are vital for sustained recovery. Our interpersonal effectiveness module helps clients:

  • Communicate needs clearly without aggression or passivity
  • Set and maintain boundaries with people who might trigger use
  • Build and repair relationships damaged by addiction
  • Balance immediate wants against long-term recovery goals

At We Level Up NJ, we deliver these skills through a combination of:

  • Individual therapy sessions tailored to personal recovery challenges
  • Group skills training where clients learn and practice techniques together
  • Therapist consultation team meetings to ensure consistent, high-quality care

Our approach integrates these DBT components with other evidence-based addiction treatments, including medication management when appropriate, trauma therapy, and family systems work—creating a comprehensive recovery program that addresses the full spectrum of addiction challenges.

therapist engages with patient in dbt session, both focused on discussion

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Benefits of DBT for Addiction Treatment

The research supporting DBT for addiction is compelling. Studies show that integrating DBT into substance use treatment significantly improves outcomes.

At We Level Up NJ, we’ve witnessed these benefits firsthand through our clients’ recovery journeys:

Enhanced Emotional Regulation

Perhaps the most transformative benefit is the ability to manage emotions without substances. Clients develop the capacity to:

  • Recognize emotional triggers before they lead to cravings
  • Tolerate uncomfortable feelings without seeking escape through substances
  • Reduce the intensity of emotions that previously felt overwhelming
  • Experience positive emotions more fully, increasing life satisfaction

Improved Interpersonal Relationships

Healthy relationships provide crucial support for recovery. Our clients report:

  • Better communication with family members about needs and boundaries
  • Reduced conflict in important relationships
  • Increased ability to build connections with sober peers
  • Greater skill in navigating relationship challenges without relapse

Decreased Impulsivity

Impulsive decision-making often drives relapse. DBT helps clients:

  • Pause between urges and actions
  • Consider consequences before making choices
  • Implement structured decision-making processes during high-risk situations
  • Recognize and manage impulsive tendencies before they lead to substance use

Long-Term Relapse Prevention

Perhaps most importantly, DBT builds a sustainable foundation for ongoing recovery by:

  • Creating lasting skills that continue working long after formal treatment ends
  • Addressing underlying emotional issues that drive addiction
  • Building resilience against future stressors and triggers
  • Developing a life worth living that doesn’t center around substance use

These benefits extend beyond addiction recovery, improving overall quality of life and mental health. Many patients experience reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression, better stress management, and improved ability to pursue meaningful life goals—creating a positive cycle that further supports continued recovery.

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Who Can Benefit from DBT at We Level Up NJ

While DBT can be valuable for anyone struggling with addiction, certain individuals may find it particularly beneficial:

Those with Co-Occurring Conditions

If you’re dealing with addiction alongside other mental health challenges like depression, anxiety, trauma, or personality disorders, DBT’s integrated approach addresses both issues simultaneously. According to SAMHSA, there is a high correlation of individuals with  substance use disorders having co-occurring mental health conditions—making this dual-focus approach especially valuable.

man experiencing discomfort from drug addiction side effects can benefit from dbt

People Who Have Tried Other Treatments Without Success

Many patients come to We Level Up NJ after multiple treatment attempts. They’ve tried programs focused solely on abstinence but found they couldn’t maintain recovery without addressing the emotional aspects driving their addiction.

If traditional approaches haven’t provided lasting results, DBT’s different focus might offer the missing piece in your recovery journey.

Individuals with Emotional Regulation Difficulties

DBT is particularly effective if you:

  • Experience intense emotions that trigger substance use
  • Have difficulty managing stress without turning to substances
  • Feel overwhelmed by cravings during emotional situations
  • Use substances primarily to numb or escape uncomfortable feelings

Those Seeking Comprehensive Skills Development

DBT is ideal if you’re looking not just to stop using substances but to develop a broader set of life skills. The therapy builds capabilities that extend far beyond addiction management, creating a foundation for overall emotional well-being and life satisfaction.

At We Level Up NJ, we’ve successfully applied DBT across a spectrum of addictions, including:

  • Alcohol use disorder
  • Opioid addiction
  • Stimulant dependencies
  • Prescription medication misuse

Our intake assessment helps determine if DBT is right for your specific situation and recovery needs.

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The DBT Program at We Level Up NJ

Our DBT program combines structure and flexibility to meet the diverse needs of our clients. Treatment typically unfolds across several coordinated components:

Comprehensive Assessment

Recovery begins with understanding. Our thorough evaluation process includes:

  • Detailed substance use history
  • Assessment of co-occurring mental health conditions
  • Identification of specific emotional triggers for substance use
  • Evaluation of current coping skills and support systems

This information allows us to customize the DBT approach to your specific challenges and strengths.

Individual Therapy

Weekly one-on-one sessions with a DBT-trained therapist form the backbone of treatment. These sessions focus on:

  • Applying DBT skills to your specific recovery challenges
  • Addressing barriers to skill implementation
  • Processing emotions and experiences that arise during recovery
  • Tracking progress and adjusting treatment approaches as needed

Individual therapy gives us space to really personalize the DBT skills. We can focus on exactly which situations trigger a particular client and develop targeted strategies for those specific challenges.

Skills Training Groups

Group sessions provide structured learning environments where you’ll:

  • Learn new DBT skills alongside peers facing similar challenges
  • Practice techniques in a supportive setting
  • Receive feedback and encouragement from both therapists and group members
  • Build connections with others in recovery

These groups follow a curriculum that systematically teaches all four DBT skill modules while encouraging real-world application between sessions.

How to Get Started with DBT at We Level Up NJ

Beginning your DBT journey at We Level Up NJ is straightforward:

  1. Make the first call: Contact our admissions team at (877) 378-4154 to discuss your situation and learn more about our programs.
  2. Complete an assessment: Our clinical team will conduct a comprehensive evaluation to understand your specific needs and determine if DBT is the right approach for you.
  3. Develop a personalized plan: Together, we’ll create a treatment plan that addresses your unique challenges and recovery goals.
  4. Begin treatment: You’ll be introduced to your therapy team and start learning the foundational DBT skills that will support your recovery.

We accept most major insurance plans and offer various payment options to make treatment accessible. Our admissions team can verify your insurance benefits and explain all financial aspects before you begin.

Remember, reaching out isn’t a commitment—it’s simply opening the door to possibilities for your recovery journey.

Your Path to Recovery Starts Here

Recovery from addiction is more than just stopping substance use—it’s about building a life where substances no longer feel necessary. DBT at We Level Up NJ offers the skills, support, and structure to make that transformation possible.

If you’re ready to explore how DBT might support your recovery journey, our team is here to help. Contact We Level Up NJ today at (877) 378-4154. Your new beginning is just a phone call away.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have to pay for DBT therapy in NJ?

While DBT therapy in New Jersey typically involves costs, most insurance plans cover at least a portion of treatment. At We Level Up NJ, we accept most major insurance providers, including Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Cigna. Our admissions team works directly with your insurance company to maximize your benefits and minimize out-of-pocket expenses. 

For those without insurance coverage, we offer various payment options and can discuss potential financial assistance programs. The investment in DBT therapy often proves valuable in the long run by reducing future healthcare costs associated with untreated addiction.

How long does DBT therapy last in New Jersey?

The duration of DBT treatment varies based on individual needs and recovery progress. In general, a standard DBT program typically runs for 6-12 months, with clients attending individual therapy and group skills training sessions. 

However, we recognize that recovery timelines differ for everyone. Our clinical team regularly assesses progress and works with you to determine the appropriate treatment duration for your specific situation and goals.

Where in New Jersey can you find DBT therapy?

We Level Up NJ offers comprehensive DBT therapy at our Lawrenceville facility, conveniently located for residents throughout northern New Jersey. Our center provides specialized DBT for addiction and co-occurring disorders. 

Beyond our facility, DBT is available through various mental health providers across New Jersey, including community mental health centers, hospital-based programs, and private practices in areas like Newark, Jersey City, Princeton, and Camden. 

However, it’s important to note that not all providers offer DBT specifically tailored for addiction treatment, which is our specialty at We Level Up NJ.

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