DBT Skills GroupsDBT Skills Groups are the primary modality through which DBT Skills are taught to clients during Comprehensive DBT treatment. This is a curriculum-based modality where there is no "processing" of emotional content that people typically expect from therapeutic groups. DBT Skills Groups provide concrete, evidence-based strategies to increase a client's set of tools to manage their emotions in a supportive environment with real-time feedback. The modality of DBT Skills Groups allows for multiple clients to receive education regarding DBT Skills at the same time, and also promotes peer support, validation, and the opportunity to learn from shared experiences.
DBT Skills Groups meet weekly for one hour sessions, and it takes approximately one year to complete the full curriculum. The skills training modules are divided into four key areas:
Adolescent DBT Skills Groups (DBT-A) also include a module of Walking the Middle Path skills, designed to increase validation of self and others, ways to effectively create change, and recognizing Dialectics within families. DBT Skills Group-Only (as adjunct support to traditional therapy) Emerging data show support that for some individuals, participation in a DBT Skills Group in conjunction with non-DBT individual therapy can help individuals learn and implement more effective ways to understand and cope with intense emotions. Based on this data, we welcome DBT Skills Group-Only clients into our groups. It is important to be clear that participation in the DBT Skills Group-Only is one-fourth of the Comprehensive DBT protocol and is NOT equal to participation in Comprehensive DBT. Learn more about DBT here. |
DBT Skills Group for Teen AthletesStarting in February 2024 for 10 weeks, this group aims to address the unique mental health and self-care needs of teen athletes and provide them with skills to thrive on and off the field.
Kaitlyn Hall, LMHC a former field hockey and lacrosse player, has tailored DBT skills to support teenage athletes. The group is a response to the lack of mental health services specifically designed for athletes. Athletes face challenges such as over-scheduled routines leading to anxiety, perfectionism, and diminished enjoyment in sports. Kaitlyn hopes the group will allow athletes to be vulnerable, break the stigma around toughness, and provide exposure to DBT concepts. Gain deeper insights into the group through an interview with its creator and facilitator, Kaitlyn Hall, LMHC, HERE. DBT Group for Young AdultsWe're offering a NEW Castlebrook Group for Gender Noncomforming Young Adults, led by McKenzie Sheridan, M.A. (she/her), and Dr. Elizabeth Anderson (she/her).
In a community-oriented space, learn and enhance coping skills while utilizing DBT to explore and celebrate your authentic self. This group will meet weekly for approximately one year. Read our blog post to learn more about this DBT group! |