
DBT-INFORMED THERAPY
"DBT-Informed" treatment uses some of the methods or structure of DBT, such as using the DBT manual to teach skills, individual therapy following the priorities of DBT but does not meet all four of the functions of Comprehensive DBT. While "DBT informed" treatment can be very helpful for some clients, it is important to recognize that research shows that "Comprehensive DBT" is the most effective for clients who struggle with more severe symptoms.
NCFWC offers DBT-Informed Individual Therapy which includes a blend of skills teaching and therapy. Coaching calls are not provided and attending a DBT Skills-Only group may or may not be recommended by the therapist.
STAGES OF TREATMENT
PRETREATMENT STAGE
Identify goals and gain motivation
Goal is to assess the presenting issues, orient to DBT, and determine whether DBT is a good fit.
Targets:
Assess current needs, patterns of behavior, and ultimate treatment goals
Introduce and educate family on DBT, how it can help, and to the NCFWC program/group
Determine if teen and parent are good candidates
Address barriers to treatment
STAGE 1
Gain control
Goal is to gain control over highly problematic behaviors
Targets:
Decrease life threatening behaviors
Decrease therapy-interfering behaviors
Decrease quality of life-interfering behaviors
Increase skill knowledge
STAGE 2
Focus on Emotional Experiencing
Goal is to move towards fully experiencing emotions and feel less miserable inside/less anguish
- Trauma/PTSD
Mood disorders
Eating disorders
Anxiety disorders
STAGE 3
Problem Solving Everyday Living Difficulties
Goal is building a healthy lifestyle and developing self-reliance.
Therapy Targets:
Low self-esteem
Relationship difficulties
Difficulties with problem-solving
Inadequate quality of life
STAGE 4
Finding Joy, Meaning, and Connection
Goal is to develop freedom and capacity for joy.
Therapy targets:
Resolve a sense of incompleteness

MIND/BODY GROUPS
LUNCH & LEARN WELLNESS SERIES
Bridging the Gap Between Mental and Physical Health
Our Wellness Series is a designed to provide families with additional resources on relevant topics that bridge the gap between mental and physical health. It is offered as a stand-alone, free class held quarterly on Fridays at 12pm with lunch provided. This series functions as a way for professionals in the field to share their expertise by translating evidence-based information into everyday language for families. Topics have included "The Science Behind Dieting", "Chinese Medicine, Acupuncture, and Your Mental Health" and "Hormones and Mental Health". Email us to be added to the invitation list