Play By the Bay ~ Bellingham Play Therapy

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy for Parents

Based on the works of Marsha M. Linehan

Presented in 8 weekly sessions, for 1 hour per week, DBT is offered to parents on an individual, couple, multi-parent family or group format. In a gentle, somewhat experiential unfolding, some basic principles you probably know, but might have forgotten to practice, you will learn or re-learn the skills to help you enjoy parenting more.

DBT is sweeping the nation as an evidence-based, effective and comprehensive approach to enhancing mental health, self-esteem and understanding as a person, and as a parent. A "Schedule of Events" for learning DBT is like this:

WEEK ONE: Introduction/DBT Orientation/ Biosocial Theory

WEEK TWO: DBT Principles

WEEK THREE: Core Mindfulness

WEEK FOUR: Validation

WEEK FIVE: Self- Management

WEEK SIX: Distress Tolerance

WEEK SEVEN: Emotional Regulation

WEEK EIGHT: Interpersonal Effectiveness/Closure/Evaluations

The concepts that parents will learn and practice will help validate your process of being a parent. Many parents grew up in emotionally invalidating environments and this can negatively impact your current ability to parent well. Learning these skills and putting them to use (alone or with your child) will help facilitate the progress of your children in the enhancement of their well-being and confidence. A sense of renewal in your relationship with your spouse or partner is often an added benefit of this experience.