DBT skills group
Also written as: DBT — Dialectical Behavior Therapy
Dialectical Behavior Therapy skills training group teaching specific techniques for emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness.
Full Definition
DBT skills groups are structured educational sessions that teach four core modules of Dialectical Behavior Therapy: mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. These groups typically run for 20-24 weeks with homework assignments and skills practice between sessions. Unlike process therapy groups, DBT skills groups focus on didactic learning and practical application of specific coping strategies. They are particularly effective for individuals with borderline personality disorder, self-harm behaviors, and emotional dysregulation, and can be offered as part of comprehensive DBT or as standalone skills training.
Usage
Usage note: DBT is always capitalized; distinguish from individual DBT therapy or DBT consultation teams.
In Context
- "The patient showed significant improvement in emotional regulation after completing the 24-week DBT skills group." — Treatment progress note
- "DBT skills group homework assignments reinforce the mindfulness and distress tolerance techniques learned in session." — Group therapy documentation