Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based approach that integrates mindfulness practices and cognitive behavior therapy to treat emotion dysregulation. It is a specialized approach for patients who struggle with intense emotions, mood swings, anger, impulsive behaviors, difficulty maintaining consistent actions towards their goals, unstable relationships, thoughts of hopelessness or that life is not worth living, and self-harming behaviors. DBT is a comprehensive treatment that includes individual psychotherapy, weekly skills group, and phone coaching. DBT provides a structured and supportive environment that empowers patients to live more authentic, meaningful, and fulfilling lives. This approach was developed by Marsha Linehan, PhD.
Mindfulness is an attentional practice that cultivates awareness and insight in a non-judgmental way. Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) are curricula that teach mindfulness practices and have underpinnings in stress physiology, cognitive psychology, group-based learning, experiential learning, Buddhism, and yoga/mindful movement. There is now a large body of research that suggests that regular mindfulness practice can decrease symptoms of anxiety, depression, and insomnia, and increase experiences of connection and positive emotions. Research also supports a positive impact on many health outcomes, such as improved blood pressure, pain management, and self-management of diabetes. Examples of MBIs include Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) developed by Jon Kabat-Zinn, PhD and Mindful Self-Compassion (MSC) developed by Drs. Kristin Neff and Chris Germer.
Balance Within clinicians incorporate other psychotherapeutic approaches such as Meaning-Centered Psychotherapy (MCP), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), and Strengths Based Therapy (SBT), among others.
The initial phase of therapy consists of a comprehensive assessment where we explore your history, current challenges, and additional relevant factors to guide your treatment plan and set collaborative goals. Sessions are typically 45-minutes and occur on a weekly basis; however, session length and frequency can be adjusted based on patient need and preference. We use brief questionnaires or rating scales as one way to check in on your progress.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills training group meets weekly for 90 minutes. Patients typically participate in group for one year, though some find it helpful to continue for a longer period. Patients learn skills in 4 key areas: mindfulness, emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness. To support your progress in DBT group, consistent participation in individual therapy is required (either at Balanced Within or with an outside provider).
We are currently accepting patients for a weekly DBT skills training group offered on Wednesdays from 7:00PM 8:30PM.
Balance Within offers Mindfulness groups (i.e., mindfulness-based interventions), typically structured as 8-week programs. Sessions range from 1 to 2.5 hours, and some groups include an all day retreat. While certain groups are open to all patients, others are tailored to individuals impacted by specific health conditions such as diabetes, cancer, or chronic pain. Please contact us for more information.
Couples Therapy is a form of psychotherapy that helps partners to understand what may be negatively impacting their connection. We may explore ineffective communication, unhelpful patterns of behavior, and cycles that escalate conflict.
Therapy can help to improve communication and strengthen connection, trust, and intimacy. Our approach to couples therapy is supportive and grounded in mindfulness and DBT techniques. Sessions are typically 60-minutes and occur on a weekly basis; however, session length and frequency can be adjusted based on couple need and preference. Depending on the concerns and level of relational distress, therapy can be short-term (8-12 sessions) or longer-term.
Assessments are available on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for more information.
We offer community-based psychoeducational workshops designed to increase mental health awareness and provide practical tools.