Highlights
- Consider dialectical behavior therapy near you if you have BPD, suicidal thoughts, and a co-occurring disorder.
- The dialectical behavior therapy principles are Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Emotion Regulation, and Interpersonal Effectiveness.
- The benefits of DBT therapy include improved emotional regulation, better relationships, and reduced substance use and suicidal behavior.
- EHG of NC provides a structured DBT program in Huntersville, Apex, Burlington, and surrounding areas for intense emotions related to substance abuse disorders.
Struggling with intense emotions, relationship conflicts, or impulsive behavior? DBT in Wilmington, NC, helps individuals manage emotional distress, reduce self-harm urges, and build healthier coping skills. Try visiting a Dialectical Behavior Therapy therapist near me soon in NC. DBT is suggested for individuals who have borderline personality disorder, suicidal thoughts, and co-occurring disorders 1
At our behavioral health clinic in Wilmington, NC, we have addiction specialists who are compassionate and can help you with:
- Managing Anger, Anxiety, And Mood Swings
- Improving Relationships And Communication
- Handling Stress
- Reducing Self-Harm And Suicidal Thoughts
- Overcoming Substance Abuse And Addiction
- Supporting Mental Health Conditions (e.g., PTSD, BPD, ADHD)
Worried about your intense and unresolved emotions, and they’re affecting your daily routine? Try looking for the best DBT therapy near Wilmington. At EHG of NC, we treat intense emotions related to addiction. Call us at 910-335-9102.
What Is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)?
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is a type of psychotherapy or talk therapy that helps people manage their complex emotions, emotional distress, or impulsive behavior. It helps individuals cope with unhelpful emotions and respond to emotions in healthier ways
DBT counseling aims to help individuals:
- Understand And Accept Complicated Feelings
- Learn Skills To Manage Intense Feelings
- Make Positive Changes In Life

What Conditions Can Dialectical Behavior Therapy Treat in Wilmington?
The DBT approach has widened to accommodate a spectrum of mental disorders. Consider dialectical behavior therapy if the individual has:
- Borderline personality disorder (BPD) and struggling with constant emotional shifts and rollercoaster emotions
- Suicidal thoughts or recurrent attempts
- Co-occurring disorders could be both mental illnesses or a combination of mental health illnesses and substance use disorder (SUD)
1. Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)
People with borderline personality disorder face emotional shifts. Our therapist uses dialectical behavior therapy to:
- Manage Emotional Dysregulation
- Balance Intense Interpersonal Conflicts
- Help With Chronic Feelings Of Emptiness
- Reduces Fear Of Abandonment
- Manage Impulsive Suicidal Behavior
2. Suicidal or Self-Harming Behavior
Recurrent suicide attempts or non-suicidal injury (NSSI) are generally a result of complex and uncontrolled emotions. For this, our DBT can help to:
- Teach Distress Tolerance
- Suggest Emotion Regulation Skills
3. Co-Occurring Disorders
For co-occurring disorders, DBT solves the primary emotional regulation problem along with other mental health or behavioral disorders. For severe cases where emotional instability or addiction symptoms require close monitoring, we recommend inpatient rehab for mental health.
Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialists modify the therapy as:
- DBT-SUD for Substance Use Disorder (SUD)
- DBT-PE for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- DBT-ED for Eating Disorders
Unsure if you need treatment for a co-occurring disorder? Look for signs that you need dual diagnosis treatment.
I) For Substance Use Disorders (SUD)
Negative and uncontrolled disturbing emotions related to mental illness can lead to reliance on substances. For the management of addiction and emotional dysregulation, the Licensed DBT IOP program allows patients to maintain their daily responsibilities.
In this case, DBT focuses on:
- Managing Cravings Of Substance
- Reducing Emotional Triggers
II) For Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Using DBT and EMDR, patients suffering from PTSD can:
- Regulate Emotions And Trauma Response
- Manage Emotional Stressors
- Reduce The Risk Of Self-Harm
III) For Eating Disorders
Patients with bulimia nervosa, binge-eating disorders, and anorexia with impulse behaviors can consider DBT. For eating disorders, Dialectical Behavior Therapy helps to:
- Notice Eating Triggers And Urges
- Do Emotional Regulation
Expert Opinion…
Who Is DBT Not Recommended For?
Our DBT therapists say,
DBT may need modification for individuals with severe cognitive impairment or untreated psychosis.
What Are the 4 Main Techniques Used In Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) in Wilmington?
There are specific techniques used that differentiate DBT from other types of therapy. If you are unsure whether DBT or another therapy method would be more suitable, also check DBT vs CBT therapy for mental health treatment.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy is built around four core skill modules. 3:
1. Use of Mindfulness
The art of mindfulness helps the individual learn to be fully present in the moment. Using the technique, individuals will:
- Observe Thoughts, Feelings, And Emotions
- Describe The Situation And The Surrounding Experience To Others
- Participate In Positive And Goal-Directed Behaviors
2. Learn About Interpersonal Effectiveness
Interpersonal effectiveness teaches how to interact positively with the people in one’s life. The technique involves learning how to navigate stressful challenges an individual might face. The goals include:
- Improving Communication Skills
- Letting Go Of Hatred And Animosity
- Saying No When Needed
3. Manage and Tolerate Stress
Using distress tolerance means practicing the art of accepting change. The therapist will make the person focus on:
- How To Improve Stressful Situations
- Calm Down And Self-Soothe
- Identifying Methods To Distract From Triggers
- Figuring Out The Pros And Cons Of An Emotion
4. Learn to Regulate Emotions
The aim is to cope with overwhelmed, angry, depressed, and frustrated emotions. Emotion regulation works on managing and controlling emotions. With this, participants will:
- Feel Less Vulnerable
- Regulate Any Disturbing Emotion Before It Becomes Uncontrollable
- Boost Self-Esteem And Become Confident

Our 4-Step DBT Process at Empower Health Group of North Carolina
DBT counseling focuses on the balance between acceptance and change. Our Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist will teach emotion management techniques to help individuals lead better lives.
1. Do a Pre-assessment of the Individual
The therapist will first verify whether DBT is the right treatment plan. The process includes:
- Asking The Right Questions Related To Addiction And Emotions
- Identifying Possible Triggers For Intense Emotions
- Reviewing Mental Health History
- Analyzing Childhood Trauma
2. Enroll in DBT Treatment Plan
After asking the right questions, the therapist enrolls the individual in a DBT treatment plan tailored to the individual. Fill out the form, and start treatment. Before enrollment, it is recommended to verify your insurance provider with us.
After assessment, patients can join DBT programs integrated with structured inpatient and outpatient care, such as:
3. Personalize Individual Therapy Sessions
The expert will decide the timings. After enrolling, individuals will meet with their therapist in one-on-one sessions.
The goals for individual therapy are to:
- Reduce The Risk Of Self-Harm Or Suicide
- Cope With Intense Emotions
- Learn New Coping Skills
4. Supervised DBT Group Skills Training
For group learners, our experts will enroll participants in DBT skills group sessions. These sessions help individuals improve their communication skills and manage their emotions. During group sessions, individuals will learn:
- To Be Attentive
- Deal With Stress Without Harmful Behavior
- Manage And Regulate Emotions
For those looking for dialectical behavior therapy groups near Wilmington, EHG of NC accepts Aetna, Cigna, UMR, and other major insurance-covered DBT programs. Verify insurance or call at 910-335-9102.

Why Should You Choose EHG of NC for DBT Therapy in North Carolina?
DBT clinicians provide an Intensive Outpatient Program, a PHP, and a residential/Inpatient Program to manage emotions and improve overall mental well-being. These programs are part of the comprehensive treatment approach offered at our mental health rehab in Wilmington, NC.
3 DBT Benefits You Will Get:
- Practice mindfulness to manage challenging thoughts and emotions.
- Develop self-respect and confidence, even during challenging moments.
- Find a sense of purpose and be proud of what the participant can do.
9 DBT Skills You Will Learn:
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) focuses on managing emotional states and improving coping mechanisms. The skills offered are:
- Interpersonal Effectiveness
- Group Skills Training
- Distraction Skills
- Acceptance Skills
- Validation Techniques
- DBT Mindfulness Techniques
- Distress Tolerance
- Mindfulness
- Emotion Regulation
Our DBT program is delivered by Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialists (LCAS) and licensed therapists trained in evidence-based DBT protocols. Fill out this form or call us now…
Happy Client Who Recovered From Depression Using Our DBT Program
The patient who was feeling depressed due to job loss and received DBT says…
“ I lost my job, and my loved ones slowly drifted away. My depression left me completely lost.
I felt anger, frustration, and suicidal thoughts. To cope, I also started using meth. My friend from Greenville suggested that I visit EHG of NC. I called them, and they immediately booked my appointment.
After receiving inpatient treatment for meth addiction and enrolling in DBT, I regained control of my emotions and substance use cravings. Their therapists helped me understand my emotions and manage cravings.”
Frequently Asked Questions about DBT Therapy in Wilmington, NC
Still finding Dialectical Behavior Therapy near North Carolina? See what patients commonly ask:
What Should I Look For In A Dialectical Behavior Therapist Near You?
Go for a licensed behavioral health clinic with DBT-specific training and LCAS specialists in treating emotional dysregulation.
How Do I Find A DBT Therapist?
You can find a DBT therapist by searching for licensed mental health professionals trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy. Many treatment centers also offer structured DBT programs that combine individual therapy, group skills training, and crisis support.
Is DBT Residential Inpatient Treatment Effective?
Yes, DBT in residential inpatient settings reduces self-harm and BPD symptoms more than standard care.
Does Insurance Cover DBT Therapy?
We accept many major insurance plans, including Aetna, Cigna, UMR, and United Healthcare.
How Long Is DBT Therapy?
Depending on the type of care needed, research suggests pursuing a 6–12-month program that covers all DBT skills 9.
Do I Need A Diagnosis To Start DBT?
Not always, but it is recommended to consult an expert for emotional dysregulation or self-harm behaviors.
What Is The Success Rate Of DBT?
Meta-analysis from PubMed found it to be 50–60% effective for BPD and related emotional dysregulation 10.
How Many Sessions Are Typical For DBT?
For the best results with Dialectical Behavior Therapy, patients can expect to commit a few hours each week for about 6 months.
References
- Dimeff, L. A., & Linehan, M. M. (2008). Dialectical behavior therapy for substance abusers. Addiction science & clinical practice, 4(2), 39–47. https://doi.org/10.1151/ascp084239
- BİLİCAN, F. I., ÇETİNKAYA, M., ÇELEBİ, E., GÜLEN, B., & BARHAM, H. (2022). A Pilot Study of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy Group Skills Training in Patients with Substance Use Disorder: Changes in Substance Use Severity, Mood and Relationship Skills. Bağımlılık Dergisi, 23(3), 327–337. https://doi.org/10.51982/bagimli.1022854
- Tan, M. Y. L., McConnell, B., & Barlas, J. (2022). Application of Dialectical Behaviour Therapy in the treatment of common psychiatric disorders: study protocol for a scoping review. BMJ open, 12(9), e058565. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2021-058565
- Chapman A. L. (2006). Dialectical behavior therapy: current indications and unique elements. Psychiatry (Edgmont (Pa.: Township)), 3(9), 62–68. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2963469/
- McMain, S. F., Chapman, A. L., Kuo, J. R., Guimond, T., Streiner, D. L., Dixon-Gordon, K. L., Isaranuwatchai, W., & Hoch, J. S. (2018). The effectiveness of 6 versus 12 months of dialectical behaviour therapy for borderline personality disorder: the feasibility of a shorter treatment and evaluating responses (FASTER) trial protocol. BMC Psychiatry, 18(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12888-018-1802-z
- Panos, P. T., Jackson, J. W., Hasan, O., & Panos, A. (2014). Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review Assessing the Efficacy of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Research on social work practice, 24(2), 213–223. https://doi.org/10.1177/1049731513503047
- Tan, M. Y. L., McConnell, B., & Barlas, J. (2022). Application of Dialectical Behaviour Therapy in treating common psychiatric disorders: study protocol for a scoping review. BMJ open, 12(9), e058565. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2021-058565
- Swales, Heidi L. Heard, J. Mark G., M. (2000). Linehan’s Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) for borderline personality disorder: Overview and adaptation. Journal of Mental Health, 9(1), 7–23. https://doi.org/10.1080/09638230016921
Medical Disclaimer:
EHG of NC aims to improve the quality of life for people struggling with substance use disorder and mental health issues. Our team of licensed medical professionals research, edit and review the content before publishing. However, this information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For medical advice, please consult your physicians or EHG of NC's qualified staff.
