The concept of ‘dialectic’—finding truth through opposites—is central to dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). An example of a dialectic that we commonly experience living in West Michigan is the phenomenon of snow in the springtime. Dialectics are the essence of dialectical behavior therapy, also known as DBT. Marsha Linehan developed DBT in the late 1970s as a method of teaching coping and problem-solving skills through individual and group therapy. Above all, DBT helps people accept themselves and act to build a valued life.
Dialectical behavior therapy stands out due to its skills training groups, which allow participants to learn practical coping strategies under the guidance of both the group leaders and fellow members. These groups foster communication, mutual encouragement, and diverse perspectives. Instruction, group practice, and homework assignments enable participants to build confidence in using new skills. Skills training covers the four DBT modules: mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, emotional regulation, and distress tolerance. The skills within these modules empower us to honor ourselves for how far we have come and to recognize the change that we must cultivate to improve our lives, while the group setting provides a supportive environment for sharing experiences, offering feedback, and celebrating progress.
Dialectics create balance and harmony. They surround us daily and are an integral part of the human experience. DBT skills provide us with tools to reduce emotional pain and cultivate inner harmony. We learn to be strong and vulnerable, to balance fear with courage, and to accept snowstorms in the spring.
The Fountain Hill Center is pleased to announce that we will begin offering DBT Skills Education groups this fall. We recognize that the need for mental health services, such as DBT, is substantial in our community, and we are pleased to begin offering this resource to individuals who feel they may require more support than individual therapy alone can provide. For more information, please visit our event page, where you will find our active groups listed under “Our Events.”
