Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) Using Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Skills

Row Psychiatric Services Group Setting

Row Psychiatric Services is proud to offer an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) focused on Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills for individuals struggling with emotional regulation, interpersonal challenges, and mental health disorders. This evidence-based program is designed to provide comprehensive therapeutic support for three days a week, promoting emotional stability, mindfulness, and coping strategies in a group setting. It is tailored to help participants integrate DBT skills into their daily lives to improve their overall quality of life.

The program is ideal for individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorder, emotional dysregulation, or interpersonal difficulties. It is suitable for adults, offering a structured environment for learning and applying DBT techniques in real-life situations.

Program Structure

  • Days: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday
  • Duration: 2 Hours per session
  • Total Duration: 8-12 weeks
  • Group Size: 6-10 participants per group.

Daily Schedule

1. Check-In and Mindfulness Practice (30 minutes)
Each session begins with a group check-in, where participants can share how they’ve been feeling since the last session. This is followed by a guided mindfulness practice to help ground participants and prepare them for learning DBT skills.

2. DBT Skills Training (60 minutes)
Participants will engage in structured DBT skills training. The DBT modules covered include:

  • Mindfulness: Focusing on being present in the moment and gaining awareness of thoughts and feelings.
  • Distress Tolerance: Teaching participants how to cope with crises and tolerate distress without engaging in harmful behaviors.
  • Emotional Regulation: Helping individuals identify and regulate their emotions effectively.
  • Interpersonal Effectiveness: Equipping participants with tools to improve communication, set boundaries, and maintain healthy relationships.

3. Break (15 minutes)
Participants take a short break to refresh and recharge.

4. Skills Application and Role-Playing (30 minutes)
Participants will actively practice DBT skills through role-playing, group discussions, and real-world scenario exercises. This section focuses on applying the skills to everyday situations, helping participants transfer what they learn into their daily lives.

5. Reflection and Homework Assignment (15 minutes)
At the end of each session, participants will reflect on the skills learned and how they can apply them over the coming days. Homework assignments will be provided to encourage practicing DBT techniques between sessions.

Program Goals

  • Enhance emotional regulation and coping skills
  • Improve interpersonal relationships and communication
  • Increase mindfulness and self-awareness
  • Promote distress tolerance and crisis management
  • Reduce self-destructive behaviors and emotional instability

Participants must complete an initial evaluation to determine if the program fits their needs. Those who are actively experiencing severe crises may require additional stabilization before joining the group.

Program Goals

  • Structured support 4x a week to foster consistent progress
  • An evidence-based approach proven to help individuals manage challenging emotions
  • Group setting to build a sense of community and shared learning experiences

Row Psychiatric Services’ DBT-based IOP offers a structured, supportive environment where individuals can develop the tools they need to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives. By providing access to intensive therapy three days a week, we aim to help participants build emotional resilience and apply DBT skills in their everyday interactions.

Please reach out to Michele Chubb at michele@rowpsychiatricservices.com to learn more, or call us directly at (610) 999-1908.