Access our DBT Primer Program

The DBT Primer pgram has been developed using a Trauma-Informed Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT-TI) framework. The goal of these sessions is to connect individuals with a range of personal resources to increase their capacity to function at a level where impulsivity and distress are reduced. In addition, orientation to a full DBT or RO DBT program is an additional goal of this program!

The DBT Primer Program was developed from the research of Dr. Peter King at the Australian DBT Institute which has been informed by translational research into the effectiveness of DBT programs. Participants in the DBT Primer Program will need a comment to five weeks of individual therapy and group sessions, attending a total of 12 sessions. Sessions include an assessment/planning session, 8 x group sessions, and 3 x individual sessions. 


What are the possible benefits of taking part? 

Participating in the DBT Primer Program may offer several benefits to participants: 

    • -Preparedness: By taking part in the program, you will become well-prepared for a full DBT (Dialectical Behaviour Therapy) program. This preparation can help you understand the therapy better and be ready to make the most of a DBT program.
    • – Support: You will receive support from individual therapists and group sessions, which can be valuable in managing emotional challenges and building better-coping skills.
    • – Therapeutic Skills: You will learn essential skills, such as mindfulness, crisis management, and identifying personal resources, which can be beneficial in your daily life and emotional well-being.
    • – Improved Mental Health: Participation can lead to improvements in your mental health and emotional well-being. It provides an opportunity to work on issues and concerns with the help of trained professionals.
    • – Low Cost or NDIS Access: All the sessions are offered with reduced fees for individuals not able to access the NDIS, ensuring access to valuable resources without a financial burden.
    • – Better Outcomes: Being well-prepared and supported before entering a full DBT program can lead to more successful outcomes and a higher likelihood of achieving your therapeutic goals. 

Components of the DBT Primer Program

This session is with an individual therapist completing self-reporting tools, crisis management plan and identify treatment targets and therapeutic goals.

The eight skills class sessions begin following the initial assessment session with each class being 60 minutes. Skills taught include mindfulness, pleasant activities, grounding, recognising individual resources, self- care, memory gems, and ripple effect.

Three sessions with an individual therapist reviewing group content and exploring five key elements of DBT (Crisis Management Plan, Diary Card, Missing Links Analysis, Chain Analysis and Phone Coaching).

Final session with an individual therapist to complete self-reporting tools, crisis management plan and finalise any referrals for ongoing support. If an individual is to commence a DBT or RO DBT program with DBT Clinics an initial session with their ongoing individual therapist will be made during the final session of this program.

Cost of the DBT Primer Program

We have three options for the DBT Primer Program.

  • – NDIS Funded participants (fees charged at NDIS rates for 4 individual and 8 group sessions)
  • – Privately Funded Fees for individuals who are not eligible for the NDIS the fee structure is as follows.
    • – 4 x $80 for individual therapy sessions
    • – 8 x $30 for group therapy sessions
    • – Weeky payment arrangements via direct debit to credit/debit cards and/or upfront payment discounts available via DBT Assist at https://www.dbtassist.com/course/primer2025a
  • – Other funded fees (WorkCover, Open Arms and Redress Scheme) are charged at the rates agreed upon in service agreements with our clinicians.
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Referral Form - Register here!!!

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