Who are the groups suitable for?

Our groups are for people aged 18 and over. 

All group participants need to also see an individual DBT psychologist while attending the group (not necessarily from our practice). This is because DBT has been shown by research to be most effective when learned through a combination of group therapy and individual therapy.

What does the programme cover?

The group goes through 4 modules: distress tolerance, mindfulness, emotional regulation and interpersonal connection. Each module involves learning core skills that have been shown to be effective in helping people manage their emotions more effectively.  

Where are they located?

Our groups are located in Newtown and Sutherland. 

Are the groups face to face or can I do it online?

Our skills groups are held face to face because we have found that they work much better that way. The rooms we use are large enough to hold 25 people while still complying with social distancing requirements, and the groups are not larger than 12-14 people. 

When are the group sessions held? 

The groups run two hours a week for twenty weeks, on different days of the week. Once you have been offered a place in a group, we will advise what days and times are available and do our best to meet your preference. 

How much is the cost?

The cost for the group is $140 per session, totalling to $2800. With a Medicare Mental Health Care Plan, you are able to receive roughly $310 in rebates If you wish to pay using private health insurance you would need to pay up front and claim it back – please talk to your health insurer about how much they would cover (please also note we are not a hospital setting, which may impact exactly what is covered). 

We also run subsidised groups funded by the Primary Health Network in both Newtown and Sutherland. 

The cost is waived for participants who meet criteria based on financial hardship. Please contact us to discuss this further to see if you are eligible.

What is the process?

You do not need a referral to participate in our groups. However, to claim a Medicare rebate you will need a referral from your GP, and so it is best to get one if you are able to do so. 

Once there is space available in an upcoming group we will call and invite you to come in for an assessment. The assessment costs is $225 and a Medicare rebate of $128 is available. 

For our PHN subsidised groups, you will need a referral from your GP. You GP needs to refer you through the PHN’s online referral system.

Once this is received we will start the assessment process. The assessments for PHN groups are at no cost to you. 

How long is the waiting list?

How long you may wait to start the group depends on when you contact us relative to when we are next running a group. As DBT groups run for twenty weeks, if you contact us just before a group starts you may wait twenty weeks, but if you contact us near the end of the group the wait could be much less. 

Typically the wait for the PHN groups is longer than for the other groups. The best thing is to ask about your options by emailing us

Where else can I find a programme?

There are a number of other programmes in Sydney that provide DBT skills-training and these include: St John of God Hospital in Burwood, Wesley Mission Hospital in Ashfield, and The Sydney Clinic in Bronte. Additionally, some Lifeline centres run programmes (particularly in Northern Sydney: Lifeline Northern Beaches and Lifeline Harbour to Hawkesbury). Public hospitals also run free groups, although their waitlists can be quite long. 

Can I see an individual / one-on-one therapist at your practice?

We have a number of highly trained clinicians who offer individual DBT. However, the waitlist for individual DBT with us varies from time to time and so it is best to check availability with us and also consider other qualified DBT therapists. 

The cost of an individual session ranges between $190-270 depending on the psychologist. If you have a Mental Health Care Plan from your GP you can access a rebate of $128.40 per session for up to 20 sessions per year.  If you are interested in individual DBT therapy, please contact the clinic to speak to the intake officer.

I have a family member with BPD, can I join your group?

Our groups are therapy groups and therefore not suitable for family members, friends or carers. However, we also run a Family and Friends programme in both Newtown and Sutherland. You can find more information on our For Family and Friends page.