Group Therapy

Adolescent Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) effectively treats individuals struggling with many different mental disorders. Though every person can benefit from the skills presented in DBT, this group is geared toward individuals who struggle with:

• Managing their thoughts, feelings and behaviors
• Risky behavior toward themselves and others
• Close relationships
• Coping with daily stress

What is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)?

DBT is a type of therapy designed to treat individuals with mental health disorders where traditional therapy methods are not as effective. In DBT, specific skills are taught that are drawn from Western therapy, as well as Eastern traditions. The therapist’s goal is to accept the patient’s feelings at any given time while teaching patients that some of their feelings are effective and showing them more effective ways to cope.

What is DBT group therapy?

DBT group, which meets once a week for 75 minutes, teaches specific skills that are broken down into four sections: core mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, emotion regulation and distress tolerance skills. The group is organized into two, six-month cycles with potential of full treatment achieved in one year.

Members can enter group at the start of every section until the group is full (eight to 10 members). Each member is required to attend a pre-group screening to ensure members are able to meet group expectations.

Benefits of DBT Group Therapy

• Core Mindfulness - is considered the main skill taught in DBT, and teaches individuals to pay attention, non-judgmentally, to the present moment.
• Interpersonal Effectiveness Skills - teaches effective strategies by asking for what individuals need, learning to say no and helping cope with conflict in relationships with other people.
• Emotion Regulation Skills - teaches how to identify and label intense emotions and learn to manage them.
• Distress Tolerance Skills - teaches how to calmly recognize negative situations and their impact, rather than becoming overwhelmed or avoiding them.

Eligibility Requirements

• Ages 12-18 (as long as they are enrolled in middle or high school)
• They are active in individual therapy
• Commit to six months of group attendance
  • DBT is covered by most insurances.

Next Steps

If you are interested in joining the DBT Group, or would like more information, call 920-926-4200.

The Adolescent Dialectical Behavior Therapy Training Group meets for 75 minute sessions in the Outpatient Behavioral Health Services department at SSM Health Waupun Memorial Hospital on the fourth floor:

• Wednesdays at 4:45 PM (ages 14-18 years / enrolled in high school)
• Thursdays at 4:45 PM (ages 12-14 years / enrolled in middle school)

Group Therapy Dynamics

Until you’ve experienced a session, group therapy might seem rather intimidating. But, group therapy is often found to be an effective option for several mental health conditions.

In group therapy you can:

• See that you are not alone in the concerns and stress you have
• Gain information and new coping strategies from other members
• Practice new behaviors in a safe environment
• Build confidence by helping others and seeing them improve

Group therapy sizes tend to vary depending on the overarching goal. Most groups range in size from five to 12 participants.

We understand your concern of confidentiality. We strive to make all of our group therapy participants comfortable. As a condition of joining the group we ask that you respect the privacy of each member, including their identity. What you say within your group should allow you to grow and learn. Sharing information about your fellow group members with others can hurt this process.

Group participation is a balance of listening and sharing. When you take the time to actively listen and share your thoughts and feelings you begin to find that special balance that can lead to healing.

If you’re curious about group therapy and whether it might be of a benefit to your overall wellbeing, contact your provider to talk about your options.