DBT SKILLS GROUPS

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 At Thrive Psychology Centre, we are excited to offer Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) Skills Groups for individuals who want to gain practical tools to manage overwhelming emotions, improve relationships, and create meaningful change in their lives.

 DBT is an evidence-based therapy that combines cognitive-behavioural techniques with mindfulness strategies. Originally developed by Dr. Marsha M. Linehan, a clinical psychologist and researcher, for individuals with intense emotional experiences, DBT has been shown to be effective for a wide range of challenges, including:

• Emotion dysregulation
• Anxiety and depression
• Self-harming behaviours
• Difficulties in relationships
• Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)

Our DBT Skills Groups focus on teaching the four core skill modules:

1. Mindfulness – Be present in the moment with awareness and clarity.
2. Distress Tolerance – Get through crisis situations without making things worse.
3. Emotion Regulation – Understand and manage intense emotions more effectively.
4. Interpersonal  Effectiveness – Navigate relationships with confidence and respect.

• Weekly 90-minute group sessions.
• A supportive, non-judgmental environment.
• An experienced, compassionate facilitator trained in DBT.
• Handouts and home practice to reinforce learning.
• Small group sizes to encourage engagement and safety (up to five members).

• Adults (18+) who experience intense emotions and want to develop healthier coping strategies.
• People who struggle with impulsivity, self-harm, or interpersonal difficulties.
• Individuals currently in individual therapy who want to complement their work with group skills training.
• Anyone interested in learning practical tools to navigate life's challenges.

No formal diagnosis is required to join.

Week 1:

Focus: Emotional Regulation & Resilience  

Targeting: Mood swings, emotional sensitivity, and difficulty coping  

Week 2:

Focus:  Relationship Skills & Communication 

Targeting:  People pleasing, fear of rejection, communication breakdowns 

Week 3:

Focus: Anxiety & Stress Management

Targeting: Generalized anxiety, social anxiety, and stress overload

Week 4:

Focus: Anger Awareness & Management

Targeting: Explosive anger, suppressed emotions, and conflict with others

Week 5:

Focus: Self-esteem & Identity

Targeting: Shame, internal criticism, and low confidence

Week 6:

Focus: Personal Power & Assertiveness

Targeting: Difficulty setting boundaries, conflict avoidance, and people-pleasing

Week 7:

Focus: Crisis Survival & Impulse Control

Targeting: Emotional meltdowns and impulsivity

• When: Mondays 10 am to 11:30 am or Thursdays 3:30 pm – 5 pm.
• Where: Thrive Psychology Centre. 16 Byron Avenue, Takapuna (first floor)
• Cost: $ 600 incl. GST for the full course fee (7 weeks)
• Duration: 7 weeks (90-minute group sessions)
• Facilitator: Dr Gudrun Court – registered Clinical Psychologist (DBT trained) 

Spaces are limited to ensure a supportive group environment. To learn more, find out when the next group starts, or register your interest:

Email: admin@thrivepsychologycentre.com

Telephone: 09 218 2516

Let’s work together to build resilience, connection, and emotional balance.