Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)
What Does “Dialectical” Mean?
Dialectical means two opposite ideas can be true at the same time, and when considered together, can create a new truth and a new way of viewing the situation; there is always more than one way to think about a situation.
Who is this program for?
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) is an evidence based treatment and is effective in assisting people with a wide range of conditions such as: Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), substance dependence, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and eating disorders.
How will it help me?
DBT is a specialised form of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) which uniquely integrates Mindfulness and Acceptance techniques. DBT considers a balance between acceptance/validation and change as central to recovery.
The program provides participants with a safe and supportive environment in which to develop skills and share in discussion with others who may have had similar experiences.
The three key modules run for 10 weeks each with Core Mindfulness Skills being the foundation for the entire program:
- Core Mindfulness: The practice of being fully aware and present in this one moment, without judgement.
- Distress Tolerance Module: Learning specific skills about how to tolerate pain in difficult situations, not change it.
- Emotion Regulation Module: Understanding emotions & learning how to change emotions that you want to change –including how to reduce your emotional vulnerability and decrease emotional suffering.
- Interpersonal Effectiveness Module: Exploring how to ask for what you want and say no while maintaining self-respect and relationships with others.
When does it run?
The Geelong Clinic has three intakes per year. Please contact us to find out when the next program will be run.
The program runs for 30 weeks, facilitated over three modules scheduled over a 12-month period. Groups meet on a weekly basis for approximately 5 hours (9:30am - 3:00pm). Morning tea and lunch is provided.
How do I access the program?
To be admitted to our programs, you will need to ask your General Practitioner for a referral to a Geelong Clinic accredited Psychiatrist. The Psychiatrist will then refer you to the Day Program.
Your GP can address your referral to: ‘Dear Doctor…’ or a Psychiatrist of your choice.
The referral should be faxed by your GP to 03 5248 4852.
Once cover or funding is checked and confirmed, the program coordinator will coordinate next steps with you.
- Please click HERE for our Specialist Directory.
How much does it cost?
We have agreements with Private Health Funds, DVA, Workcover and TAC. Self-funding is also an option.
All referrals are subject to a health fund check prior to admission to a program.
We will be pleased to answer any questions you may have in relation to cost. Please call us on 03 5240 0700 to discuss your options.
More information?
- DBT Day Program brochure - Click HERE