DBT Skills Group at Vivamus: What You Need to Know
What does DBT stand for?
DBT stands for Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, which is a specific type of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. DBT involves four modules of skills training: Core Mindfulness, Emotion Regulation, Interpersonal Effectiveness and Distress Tolerance.
Who would benefit from DBT?
DBT is a valuable therapy for a wide range of people, including those with conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and personality disorder. However, it is not necessary to have a formal diagnosis to benefit from attending the DBT Skills Group at Vivamus. If you find it difficult to regulate your emotions, manage relationships or tolerate distress, this group can help you learn tools to better navigate these areas of your life.
How does DBT differ from a support group?
The DBT group focuses on structured skills training, offering practical tools to help you stay in the present moment, regulate emotions, tolerate distress and improve relationships. While the emphasis is on skill-building, many participants say they also find the group supportive – hearing others share similar experiences can help you feel less alone in your struggle.
How do the skills apply to real life?
DBT teaches a wide range of skills that can be used in everyday situations.
Core Mindfulness helps you stay present and aware, reducing vulnerability to anxiety (which often focuses on the future) and depression (which can focus on the past).
Emotion Regulation teaches you how to understand and manage your emotions. This doesn’t mean avoiding difficult feelings – it means learning how to sit with them and also make space for positive emotions.
Interpersonal Effectiveness provides tools to help you build stronger relationships, ask for what you need and say no when necessary.
Distress Tolerance equips you with strategies to manage crises – when you can’t fix something right away, you still need ways to survive it.
What about confidentiality?
Confidentiality is a vital part of creating a safe, respectful group environment. At Vivamus, everyone who joins the DBT Skills Group signs a therapy agreement that includes a confidentiality clause. Group members agree not to share any identifying information about others outside of the group. Confidentiality has always been upheld and respected by participants.
Why do I need an assessment before starting the group?
The assessment session plays an important role in ensuring the group is a good fit.
It allows us to:
- Confirm that this therapeutic approach is appropriate for your needs
- Begin building a relationship with the group facilitator
- Gain your commitment to attend all sessions, which supports a stable group environment
- Introduce the principles and expectations of DBT
Where can I find out more information?
You can read more about DBT here. To enquire about the group or register your interest, please email hello@vivamus.me, or call or WhatsApp us on 058 506 4243.