Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Substance Use Disorders (DBT-SUD)

Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Substance Use Disorders (DBT-SUD) was originally created for people diagnosed with both Borderline Personality Disorder and Substance Use Disorder (chemical abuse and dependency).  Developed by Marsha Linehan, PhD, this model is supported by emerging evidence that DBT can be enhanced to effectively meet the unique needs of people with both disorders.  As part of the DBT-SUD model, clients will be provided with all of the components of standard DBT.  In addition, there is an emphasis on both abstinence and harm reduction models of chemical health treatment, targeted interventions to enhance motivation and maintain participation in treatment, and DBT skills developed specifically for the DBT-SUD population.  These enhancements to standard DBT are included in both the individual and group components of treatment.  Participation in the program is contingent upon a client meeting all of the following criteria:

•        Diagnosis of a Substance Use Disorder
•        Diagnosis of Borderline Personality Disorder or emotional dysregulation as a symptom of mental illness
•        Commitment to maintain or work toward abstinence
•        Commitment to participate in weekly individual and skills group therapies for a period of 1 year
•        Commitment to take all mental health and chemical replacement medications as prescribed
•        Commitment to undergo regular UAs and/or other chemical testing on an ongoing basis if required
•        Appropriate insurance coverage and/or a commitment to pay all out-of-pocket expenses

MCP currently offers one DBT-SUD group via telehealth on Wednesday evenings from 5:00-7:30pm. For more information on DBT skills groups at MCP, click here.

An initial assessment is completed with each individual interested in receiving DBT services to discuss reason/s for seeking services, identify problems, strengths, goals, and recommendations, and determine diagnosis/es (if applicable).

Most types of insurance are accepted, as is private pay. Please contact your insurance company to determine your level of coverage.

For more information, to make a referral, or to request an assessment, please contact Minnesota Center for Psychology at 651-644-4100 and ask about the DBT-SUD program.