Questions to Ask Before Joining a DBT Skills Group: Choosing the Right Program for Your Needs

If you’re considering joining a Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills group, you’re making a proactive choice to learn skills that can enhance your emotional regulation, interpersonal effectiveness, and overall quality of life. But not all DBT programs are created equal. Asking the right questions can help you find a program that aligns with your goals, schedule, and budget. Here are seven essential questions to ask—and what to look for in the answers.

1. Do you use the DBT textbook, or do you offer a modern multimedia curriculum?

While traditional DBT programs often rely solely on textbooks, a modern multimedia curriculum offers an engaging and inclusive approach. Programs like TheraHive’s leverage multimedia tools to accommodate different learning styles, making skills easier to understand and apply. Look for programs that embrace this inclusive approach to learning.

2. How many groups do you run at any one time?

Providers with limited group offerings may lack the experience or infrastructure to meet the diverse needs of participants. At TheraHive, we specialize in running groups and we’re running many groups year round, ensuring a robust system that includes backup coaches, make-up sessions, quality assurance programs, and a wealth of experience to guide participants effectively. A provider dedicated to groups is more likely to have the expertise you deserve.

3. How long is your program, and does it include all of the modules and skills?

Reputable DBT programs range from 5 to 9 months long, ensuring adequate time to cover all modules—Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Emotion Regulation, and Interpersonal Effectiveness—and the essential skills within them. TheraHive’s program is 22 weeks long. We’ve designed it to be as efficient as possible without cutting any corners, giving students the most value as they integrate DBT skills into their lives. Short-term or abbreviated programs may seem appealing, but just like building physical fitness, learning DBT skills requires consistent effort over time … and this is also what research supports.

4. How are your coaches trained in DBT?

The quality of your DBT skills group is closely tied to the expertise of its coaches. Many programs rely on licensing as a marker of quality, but this isn’t always an accurate measure. At TheraHive, we go above and beyond with a rigorous screening and training process, ensuring that our coaches are not only knowledgeable but also skilled in delivering DBT instruction effectively.

5. Do I have to be in individual therapy to join?

Some traditional DBT providers require participants to be in individual therapy to join their groups. While this may work for some, it’s not always necessary. TheraHive’s program is designed for individuals who want to learn DBT skills in a group setting without the added requirement of individual therapy. For many students, this group-focused approach is sufficient to achieve meaningful change.

6. How much time will I spend in the program each week?

DBT programs can vary widely in their time commitment. TheraHive’s program is structured to fit into busy schedules, with about 2-2.5 hours of self-paced work each week and a one-hour live session. This flexibility allows you to integrate DBT learning into your life without feeling overwhelmed. We also offer make-up sessions if you are unable to make a class.

7. What is the total cost of the program?

Cost is a significant factor when choosing a DBT program. At TheraHive, you can get a 10% discount when you pay upfront ($1,188 total — equal to $54 a week). When paid weekly, the cost is $60 a week and $1,320 over the course of the program.

We do not currently accept insurance or handle insurance claims. However, the cost of our program is often comparable to what you’d pay in co-pays via your insurance provider. If you’re unsure what your insurance covers, we encourage you to review your policy. If you share documentation of your co-pay with our team, we may be able to match that cost.

Why TheraHive Stands Out

At TheraHive, we are committed to making DBT accessible, effective, and adaptable. From our modern curriculum and flexible scheduling to our affordable pricing, our program is designed to empower you with the skills you need to thrive. By asking these key questions and evaluating the answers, you can make an informed decision about the program that’s right for you.

Ready to get started? Learn more about our DBT skills groups and see how TheraHive can support you on your journey.

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