12 Week Dialectical Behaviour Therapy
What is DBT?
DBT is an evidence based treatment originally designed for people with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD).
To learn more about Dialectical Behaviour Therapy we invite you to view this short video we have prepared which is available on youTube.
In the DBT Program treatment strategies are linked specifically to the symptoms of BPD. DBT is now also used as a treatment model for people with other mental health diagnoses.
“Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a common mental illness characterised by poor control of emotions and impulses, unstable interpersonal relationships and unstable self-image.
Symptoms of BPD typically emerge during adolescence and early adulthood. People with BPD experience significant suffering and distress due to difficulties in relating to other people and the world around them, disruption to family and work life, and social problems”.
National Health and Medical Research Council (2013). Clinical Practice Guideline for the Management of Borderline Personality Disorder. Canberra, ACT: NHMRC (p.20).
Who may benefit from the DBT program at perth clinic?
You are likely to get the most out of the DBT program if you:
- Have been diagnosed with BPD or BPD traits.
- Are motivated to engage in weekly coaching sessions in addition to a weekly skills group.
- Are committed to complete the full 12 week program.
- Are stable on medications.
- Do not have any other debilitating conditions, current psychotic symptoms, or current alcohol or other substance use issues.
Program outline
The DBT Skills Program at Perth Clinic is 12 weeks in duration with weekly group sessions plus an additional individual coaching session either weekly or fortnightly. A maximum of nine people can participate in the DBT program at one time.
Individual coaching is provided by Perth Clinic staff and aims to address any not-so-helpful ways of thinking and coping (such as suicidal thoughts and behaviours or impulsive behaviours). Individual coaching also aims to consolidate and generalise the learning of DBT skills.
The skills group is scheduled to run at various times/days throughout the week and comprises mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation and interpersonal skills modules.
During the program, participants can telephone Perth Clinic for crisis support as required. This is available 24 hours.
Upon completion of the DBT Skills Program, you will be invited two follow-up sessions at six and twelve weeks after the group where you can discuss progress and review goals set at completion of the program.
