Virtual DBT Skills Group
Virtual DBT Skills group is open to adults 18 and older who currently have an individual therapist and would like additional support in the following areas:
- Overwhelming emotions
- Ineffective coping
- Impulsivity
- Relationship issues
- Self-harm or suicidal behavior
We currently offer two separate virtual DBT Skills groups: One every Tuesday from 5:30-7:00pm and the other every Thursday from 5:30-7:00pm. For more information or to enroll, please contact drgabrielle@tosapsych.com or (414) 323-5935.
what is dbt?
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based treatment that combines cognitive behavioral approaches with Eastern philosophies, like mindfulness and acceptance. It was originally developed by Dr. Marsha Linehan to treat borderline personality disorder (BPD), but has since been shown to effectively treat a wide range of mental health conditions.
DBT embodies two core concepts:
- The "dialectic" in DBT refers to the idea that two seemingly opposing things can be true at the same time. For example, clients can be encouraged to accept themselves while also working towards change.
- The “behavior” in DBT means understanding and modifying problematic behaviors and thought patterns in order to regulate emotions and effectively make decisions.
What is DBT Skills Group?
If DBT is the “what,” then DBT Skills are the “how.” DBT Skills Group helps you put DBT concepts into practice by teaching skills from four modules: mindfulness, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and emotion regulation. These skills help you with the following:
- Develop healthy coping skills
- Strengthen resilience to life stress
- Increase control over emotions
- Change unwanted behaviors
- Improve relationships
key elements of our DBT skills groups
Facilitation by a Therapist
Facilitation by a Therapist
Facilitation by a Therapist
Group is led by Gabrielle Finta, PsyD, a trained DBT therapist who facilitates the sessions, provides education, and helps members apply the DBT skills to their individual situations.
Sense of Community
Facilitation by a Therapist
Facilitation by a Therapist
Participants meet as a group, providing opportunities for mutual support, encouragement, and feedback. This sense of community can enhance motivation and accountability. Group size ranges from 6-8 members.
Skills Practice
Facilitation by a Therapist
Structured Learning
Specific skills are taught from the four DBT Skills modules: Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Emotion Regulation, & Interpersonal Effectiveness. Homework provides an opportunity to practice these skills in real-life situations, reinforcing learning and building confidence.
Structured Learning
Structured Learning
Structured Learning
Each group session follows a set agenda: members review homework assigned the previous week; new skills are taught through lessons, exercises, and activities; and members discuss their application. Groups meet weekly for 90 minutes.
Virtual Format
Structured Learning
Virtual Format
The virtual format improves accessibility by removing transportation and geographic barriers, allowing members to participate from the comfort of their own home. It also accommodates busy schedules, making it easier for members to attend consistently.
Commitment
Structured Learning
Virtual Format
Completing a full cycle of all 4 DBT Skills modules requires a 26-week commitment. However, research has shown it is most advantageous for participants to complete two cycles for sufficient understanding and application of skills.