At Serenity Park Recovery Center you don’t have to choose between evidence-based clinical work or the spiritual deep dive of a 12-step program. You get the best of both worlds. DBT practices are woven into the 12 Steps like threads of the same rope; pulling together to form a strong bond. Through this interchange, we’ve built a comprehensive program that addresses not just the addiction itself, but the thinking patterns that fuel it. 

Finding the Middle Path: How DBT's Philosophy Enhances the 12 Steps

The 12 Steps have been around for nearly a century and provide a spiritual foundation and fellowship that has helped millions recover from addiction. DBT adds concrete skills that make recovery principles practical in everyday life. Together they provide approach to recovery that’s hard to beat.

Clinician Ava Titsworth notes, "The 12 Steps intuitively learned things that support DBT, like open-mindedness and willingness to try new things." This willingness is essential in both approaches, creating a powerful synergy.

Breaking Down Black-and-White Thinking

Men, in particular, often struggle with black and white thinking. One of the most valuable aspects of integrating DBT with the 12 Steps is addressing that all-or-nothing thinking style common in addiction. As Ava explains, "There are many right answers. There's not just one right answer."

When guys shift their perspective we notice they are able to forgive themselves for past mistakes, recognize progress without needing perfection, learn to accept help without viewing it as weakness, and build confidence while maintaining humility. 

Reinforcing Recovery Through Multiple Channels

One powerful integration technique we use is connecting familiar 12 Step concepts with DBT skills. As Ava shares, "We take passages from the AA book and other sources to reinforce DBT concepts."

For example, when teaching distress tolerance, we may reference the Serenity Prayer: "God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and wisdom to know the difference." This prayer is a perfect representation of DBT’s balance between acceptance and change. 

When it comes to step work there are an abundance of opportunities to connect it to DBT. Steps 6 and 7 (Becoming ready to have our character defects removed) pair with DBT’s non-judgemental stance and willingness to change. 

Steps 8 and 9 (Making amends) is supported by interpersonal effectiveness skills that help to facilitate tough conversations. Steps 10 through 12 (Maintenance and spiritual growth) align with DBT’s emphasis on maintaining a practice of mindfulness and awareness. 

The Science Behind Our Approach

Research consistently shows that integrated approaches to addiction treatment yield better results than single-modality approaches. While both abstinence based 12-step models of addiction treatment and behavioral therapy focused models of treatment are efficacious, when combined, they provide better long-term outcomes. 

A Balanced Path Forward

As you consider your options for addiction treatment, remember that you deserve an approach that's as multifaceted as you are.

Ready to learn more about how Serenity Park’s integrated approach might support your recovery journey? Reach out today for a confidential conversation about your specific situation and needs.