Abstract
This evaluative project utilized qualitative and quantitative methods to research how thirteen substance abuse program participants incorporated components of dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) in their recovery and daily lives. Data was obtained using personal interviews post-DBT group training, and the validated Kentucky Inventory of Mindfulness Skills questionnaire before and after participation in the DBT groups. Findings show that through DBT skills practice, participants reported improvements in emotion regulation, impulse control, and self-acceptance. These findings further validate the usefulness of strengths-based programs as a balance to traditional, deficits-based approaches that rely less on personal resiliency to maintain sobriety. This project has been a collaborative effort by Ronald Richards and Dena Sehr, who shared responsibility for its production.