Learning how to manage extreme emotions, handle stress, and communicate more effectively is not something most people are taught growing up. For many young adults, these skills are learned through trial and error, often during periods of overwhelm or conflict. A DBT informed skills group offers a structured, supportive way to build these tools with guidance and care.
Unitive Wellness Clinic is offering an 8 week DBT informed introductory skills group running from February 26 to April 16, 2026. This online group is open to BC residents aged 19 to 30 and is designed for those who want practical skills they can use in everyday life.
What does DBT informed mean?
A DBT informed group draws from Dialectical Behaviour Therapy while focusing on skills learning rather than intensive individual treatment. The goal is to help participants understand and practise core DBT tools in a supportive group setting.
Each session introduces skills from one of the four DBT modules:
Mindfulness
Distress tolerance
Emotion regulation
Interpersonal effectiveness
These skills support people who experience extreme emotional ups and downs (such as angry outbursts), impulsive reactions, difficulty managing stress, or challenges in relationships.
What to expect from the group
This group is more than a lecture or worksheet based class. Sessions include guided discussions, experiential activities, and opportunities for reflection. Participants learn how skills apply to real situations like conflict with others, feeling overwhelmed, or getting stuck in unhelpful patterns.
The group is facilitated by registered clinical counsellors Ciara Toddington and Asia Oberle, who bring a grounded, compassionate approach to skills learning. The focus is on building understanding and confidence, not judgement or pressure to share more than feels comfortable.
Who this group is for
This DBT informed skills group is a good fit if you:
Feel overwhelmed by strong emotions
Struggle with impulsive or reactive behaviours
Have difficulty managing conflict or setting boundaries
Want practical tools for stress and emotional regulation
Are curious about DBT but not sure where to start
You do not need a diagnosis to join. Many people attend simply because they want better ways to cope and communicate.
Practical details
Dates: February 26 to April 16, 2026
Format: Online
Age range: 19 to 30
Investment: $65 per session
Early Bird: $60 per session if registered by February 6
To learn more or book a free intake, contact info@unitiveclinic.ca or call 604 356 9043. You can also direct message @ciaracounselling on Instagram.
What is a DBT informed skills group?
A DBT informed skills group teaches core Dialectical Behaviour Therapy skills in a group setting, focusing on emotional regulation, coping, and communication.
Who should join a DBT skills group?
People who experience emotional overwhelm (including but not limited to anger and avoidance), impulsivity, stress, or relationship challenges often benefit from learning DBT skills.
Do I need a diagnosis to attend a DBT group?
Do I need a diagnosis to attend a DBT group?
No. You do not need a formal diagnosis to participate. Many people join to build coping skills and emotional awareness.
What skills are taught in DBT?
DBT includes mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness skills.
Is this DBT group therapy or skills based?
This is a skills based, DBT informed group rather than intensive individual DBT therapy.
Is the DBT skills group available online in BC?
Yes. This group is offered online and open to residents across British Columbia.
