Dialectical Behaviour Therapy

The Melbourne Clinic

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) Program

Group Guidelines

The following are guidelines of behaviour for both within AND outside of group times. This includes group
breaks and any communication between participants between sessions.

1. Please arrive at least 10 minutes early to sign in before group starts.

2. We encourage you to attend all sessions but if you have to miss sessions, do not miss more than
two. Please note, you are unable to continue with the module if you miss the first two weeks –
these are foundational weeks and important for group cohesion.
3. You cannot miss more than 15 minutes of content i.e. arriving late, leaving early or stepping out of
class will be taken into account and the minutes will accrue. This is important for learning to take
place.
4. Call the Day Program reception on 8416 3800 if you are going to be late or unable to attend.
5. You may be asked to leave at the discretion of the therapist if suspected to be under the influence
of substances.
6. Act and speak with respect at all times (we will explore what this looks like in group session)
7. One person talking at a time. Refrain from interrupting others, leaving the room when others are
talking and please use “I statements” so as not to speak on behalf of others.
8. Discussions are to be skills focused. The group is not the forum to be discussing personal problems
in detail. Therapists may redirect discussions if becoming unfocused.
9. We understand that many are seeking therapy to help gain control over risky behaviours, and at
the same time, hearing about other people’s struggles with these can activate strong emotions. You
are therefore strongly encouraged to have regular mental health practitioner appointments to
speak about any risky behaviours or traumatic situations and reserve group therapy for learning
new skills.
10. If you are feeling unsafe or having unhelpful thoughts, please speak to the group facilitator in the
break.
11. We kindly ask that you make reasonable efforts to cover any recent wounds (whether self-inflicted
or accidental).
12. Switch mobile phones on silent or off during your group session.
13. Respect confidentiality of the other participants and staff. What is said in group, stays in group.
Gossip or talking about group members in and out of session will not be tolerated.
 Dialectical Behaviour Therapy
The Melbourne Clinic
14. Please do not form exclusive or intimate relationships with other group members whilst attending
groups at the Day Program. This applies with participants across all programs.
15. Please do not schedule any other appointments during group times.
16. If at any point you become distressed in session, you can take a 5-10 minute time out to use your
skills with the expectation that you re-enter the room when you are settled. If you are unable to
return to group, please request a senior clinician from the administration desk.
17. If you are unable to stay for the duration of group for any reason, you need to speak with your
facilitator or a senior clinician before leaving the premises.

Consequences for not adhering to these guidelines will range from discussion with your individual and / or
group therapist, developing a behavioural contract, discussion with the manager, or in extreme cases it
could result in discontinuation of therapy.

I have read and understand this form and will abide by this agreement.

Maria Antaras-Dalamagas
____________________ Maria Antaras-Dalamagas
_________________ __________
11/07/2023

Participant Name Participant Signature Date

Vivienne Law RN V.Law 11/07/2023

Witnessing Staff Member Name Staff Member Signature Date