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DBT Group Therapy

Dialectical Behavioural Therapy Groups for Youth and Young Adults

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a highly effective, evidence-based therapeutic approach designed to help individuals manage intense emotions, build better interpersonal relationships, and cultivate mindfulness.

Our DBT sessions are designed for youth and young adults who want to learn new skills for emotion regulation and develop strategies for managing mental health conditions as well as everyday stress and anxiety. DBT also helps to treat borderline personality disorder (BPD), post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and various eating disorders.

DBT Groups for Youth and Young Adults: Program Overview

DBT Groups for Youth and Young Adults is a 6-week course, consisting of one 90-minute session per week held in a group setting, as well as homework tasks and skills to practice at home.

The benefits of dialectical behaviour therapy are many, both for the effective treatment of a variety of mental health conditions and for the purpose of building on emotional regulation skills.

With DBT skills training as part of a holistic, evidence-based treatment plan, you can not only manage but also develop radical acceptance for yourself and your life. These programs have helped many people living with a mental health condition, an eating disorder such as bulimia nervosa, a substance use disorder, a range of personality disorders – borderline personality disorder (BPD), for example – and other mental health conditions.

The program consists of three key components:
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Mindfulness

Learn radical self acceptance for your intense emotions in the present moment with mindfulness skills.

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Distress Tolerance

Build awareness of your emotions and develop your distress tolerance skills to reduce emotional reactivity in difficult or stressful situations. DBT also helps young people learn to tolerate distress and manage the repercussions of intense emotions without resorting to harmful behaviours.

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Interpersonal Effectiveness

Understand how your actions and behaviours influence others and affect your interpersonal relationships, learn to communicate more effectively with those around you, and develop the interpersonal effectiveness skills you need to succeed.

DBT Group Therapy for Youth Aged 14-18 and Young Adults 18+

Our DBT groups are tailored to different age groups and offer a safe space for youth and young adults to work through emotional challenges and develop resilience.

For Ages 14-18:

A supportive group setting where adolescents can explore their emotions, reduce impulsive behaviors, and improve coping strategies for everyday stress.

For Ages 18+:

A young adult-specific DBT program that addresses life transitions, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness.

Core Skills Taught:

Emotional regulation, distress tolerance, mindfulness, and interpersonal effectiveness.

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We can help.

Our DBT group therapy offers a structured, compassionate space where participants can learn vital skills while connecting with others who may share similar experiences.

Want to join DBT Group Therapy?

Currently taking new participants for our next intake, which commences in January 2025

To find out more:

Psychotherapist, Joanne Fitzgerald sitting on a chair and smiling at the camera

Meet the Program Director

Hi! I'm Joanne.

As a clinical psychologist specialising in dialectical behaviour therapy, I feel there's nothing more satisfying than watching my clients develop skills, find healthy ways to manage negative thoughts, and make positive changes to their day-to-day life.

"I believe in a person centred, goal orientated approach, and feel that therapy should be a collaboration between myself and my client," says Joanne.

"Each individual has their own unique set of strengths, values, and resources which can be used to help them live an enriched, fulfilling life. As your therapist, it will be my role to help you discover new ways to build upon these unique skills."

Ready to find your tribe?
Make a booking enquiry

FAQs

Explore our FAQ section to find answers to frequently asked questions.

Who is Joanne Fitzgerald?

I am a counsellor and mental health professional registered though the Australian Counselling Association, specialising in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy. I have many years of experience working with children and young people, taking a person-centred, goal-oriented approach.

Do you offer individual therapy?

Yes, we offer individual dialectical behaviour therapy for children, youth and young adults aged 6 to 30.

How do the sessions work in a classroom setting?

A key difference between individual therapy and group DBT sessions is that you will have the opportunity to connect with and learn from other young people as they navigate similar challenges. These sessions are also a great opportunity to make friends!

What do the homework assignments typically involve?

The homework assignments are set to practice emotion regulation skills learned during our skills training sessions.

Will the DBT program help if I am experiencing severe emotional dysregulation in the form of self injury, substance abuse or suicidal thoughts?

If you are prone to self-harm and suicidal behaviour, seeking professional help is essential. DBT therapists are trained to help clients experiencing a range of personal challenges, and could be very helpful in overcoming these. However, if you are in immediate danger of harm, reach out to crisis services first.