DBT Group Therapy Activities
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is a type of psychotherapy that assists individuals in better managing their emotions and behaviors. It has been extensively researched, with evidence to back it up. DBT has shown to be successful for patients suffering from various mental disorders like borderline personality disorder or depression.
One of the primary objectives of DBT is to help patients acquire new skills that they can apply in everyday life. To do this, patients must be willing to practice these new abilities in a group setting and receive feedback from their therapist – this process is commonly referred to as “experiential learning.”
DBT Group stands out from other therapy groups in that rather than having a free-form session, there are activities tailored towards each skill of the week. These exercises serve to reinforce what participants have learned during individual sessions with their therapist.
Mindfulness Exercises: Mindfulness is an integral component of DBT, and participants will have the chance to hone this skill within the group setting. This could include mindfulness tai chi or meditation exercises.
Writing Activities: DBT patients can also benefit from writing to better process their thoughts and emotions. Writing about experiences can help them let go of negative thoughts and emotions that cause them distress.
Gratitude Journaling: Gratitude journaling is another DBT activity that encourages individuals to focus on positive experiences and build resilience. It can be especially helpful for individuals who struggle with self-criticism or low self-esteem.
Behavioral Chain Analysis: This powerful DBT tool assists individuals to recognize the triggers that lead them to problem behavior and explore alternative behaviors they could have used instead. It has the potential to increase self-awareness while strengthening DBT skills such as mindfulness, distress tolerance, and emotion regulation strategies.
DBT Group Games: DBT groups provide a great opportunity for group fun. Games can range from traditional Pictionary to more complex topics that may need drawing or writing, so everyone has something they can enjoy together!
The purpose of the group is to get members interacting and having fun while practicing their new DBT skills. The more comfortable group members become with these new abilities, the more likely they will apply them in everyday life situations.
DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) is a group therapy program that not only benefits those living with mental illness, but all people. It can increase self-awareness, strengthen their capacity for handling intense emotions and enhance communication with others.
Clients may benefit from DBT if they struggle with controlling their impulses and emotions, or feel out of control in their relationships. For many individuals, this type of psychotherapy has proved to be a life-altering experience.
Group therapy is an integral component of DBT treatment and it can be daunting to contemplate. But it doesn’t have to be. Most DBT patients report enjoying their group sessions and would highly recommend them to others.
