Therapy can evoke strong emotions. Though the results are well worth it, there can be some tough sessions, which can also be the most invigorating. If there aren’t, then you may not be addressing the right issues! After dealing with tough emotions, you might be kind to yourself with a comforting meal. Even if sessions feel manageable, it’s important to practice coping with difficult emotions. In Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), while at an Adult IOP, a main Distress Tolerance skill is self-soothing using your five senses. A great way to engage your sense of taste is by enjoying some of Houston’s best barbecue.
We’re not talking about numbing your feelings by overeating, though that could be easy to do. If you tend to overuse food as a coping skill, then this is not for you. This is only about giving yourself some pleasure for a few moments. It’s not about avoiding your emotions, but it may be about taking a break to let your wise mind kick in so you can make good decisions.
Seven Great BBQ Spots in Houston, TX
Here are seven great BBQ spots in Houston. You can enjoy a comforting meal and soothe yourself with tasty flavors. Practice your DBT skills in one of the best ways we know.
Truth BBQ
110 S Heights Blvd, Houston, TX 77007
If you need a meal that melts in your mouth, Truth BBQ’s brisket is a must. The tender meat, smoky bark, and rich fat come together to delight your senses. Enjoy it with their creamy mac and cheese or banana pudding. This combo gives you a full self-soothing experience through taste. I’ve been here—it’s good. And there are enough sides for a vegetarian to enjoy.
The Pit Room
1201 Richmond Ave, Houston, TX 77006
After an emotional therapy session, you might need some quiet time and good food. The Pit Room’s beef ribs and handmade tortillas provide a satisfying experience. Each bite bursts with rich, smoky flavors that help you stay in the moment. And they have crawfish!
Gatlin’s BBQ
3510 Ella Blvd, Houston, TX 77018
Gatlin’s BBQ is all about comfort. They offer a warm, family-run vibe and perfectly smoked meats. Their loaded baked potatoes and buttery cornbread are perfect for comfort. They add great texture and flavor. They help you shift your focus, at least for a little while, from emotional pain to sensory pleasure. Focus on the taste. Observe and describe! It’s a fun place to work on strengthening connections too.
Blood Bros. BBQ
5425 Bellaire Blvd, Bellaire, TX 77401
If you’re feeling overwhelmed and need a taste adventure, Blood Bros. BBQ brings an exciting twist to traditional barbecue. You can work on your flexible mind through novel food experiences. Try their gochujang-glazed pork ribs or Thai green curry boudin. They can take your mind off things and offer a tasty treat. You might even discover flavors you haven’t tried before.
Ray’s BBQ Shack
3929 Old Spanish Trail, Houston, TX 77021
Ray’s BBQ Shack is comfort food at its finest. Their smoked turkey legs and chopped beef sandwiches provide a hearty, grounding meal. To fully enjoy your taste buds, try their fried corn nuggets. I had never heard of that dish before! The crispy, sweet, and savory flavors will ground you in the moment. Reward yourself for managing your emotions and completing that chain analysis!
Pinkerton’s Barbecue
1504 Airline Dr, Houston, TX 77009
Pinkerton’s offers rich, satisfying flavors that can be a form of self-care. Their bourbon-glazed smoked turkey pairs well with jalapeño cheese rice. It mixes sweet, smoky, and spicy flavors in a harmonious blend. This tasty mix helps you enjoy your meal and keeps your mind off any worries. Spicy foods can help you feel more grounded. Plus, their great flavors might lower your threat sensitivity.
Killen’s Barbecue
101 Heights Blvd
Right here in the Heights, in fact just down the road, Killen’s is worth it for the experience alone. Their creamed corn and smoked brisket offer a tasty way to slow down. This moment lets you enjoy eating, which is important for self-soothing in DBT. Can you observe and describe the food you are eating?
DBT Tip: Self-Soothing Through Taste
Here are some tips from a DBT therapist on how to practice self-soothing through taste:
Slow down and enjoy each bite. Savor it! Notice the textures, flavors, and temperatures.
Engage all your senses—smell the smoky aroma, feel the warmth of the food, and listen to the crunch or tenderness.
Pair your meal with deep breathing—inhale before each bite, and exhale as you enjoy. Choose comforting foods. Enjoy the familiar taste of brisket or the sweet flavor of banana pudding. Make your meal a mindful experience.
Therapy can be hard. However, practicing self-care with food can help you feel grounded and find peace. Houston’s BBQ scene is a great place to practice DBT skills learned from Houston DBT Center and enjoy amazing food.
Get More Support with an Adult IOP in Houston, TX
If you’ve been practicing DBT skills in everyday settings—like savoring a comforting BBQ meal—but find you need more structured support, an adult IOP in Houston, TX can help. At Houston DBT Center, our intensive outpatient program provides deeper guidance in applying DBT skills to real-life challenges. Take the next step in your healing journey and get the support you need to manage emotions with confidence. Follow these three simple steps to get started:
- Call 713-973-2800 or email administration@houstondbtcenter.com today for a free consultation.
- Meet with a skilled DBT therapist to evaluate your needs and goals.
- Begin your healing journey!
Additional Services Offered by Houston DBT Center
At Houston DBT Center, we offer more than just an adult IOP—our comprehensive services are designed to help you navigate treatment-resistant depression and other mental health challenges. In addition to intensive outpatient care, we provide specialized trauma therapies such as DBT, CPT, and EMDR, along with Radically Open DBT, Teen IOP, parent coaching, and play therapy. With a dedicated team of over 15 experienced therapists, we focus on personalized treatment and work closely with families to ensure meaningful progress. Don’t forget to explore our blog for valuable mental health insights!