Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) has become one of the most effective approaches for treating emotional dysregulation, trauma, addiction, and co-occurring mental health disorders. However, many people are unsure whether to start with group DBT sessions or individual therapy.

At Milestone Recovery in Mesa, we offer both options — and help each client choose the right fit based on their goals, needs, and comfort level. Understanding the differences between DBT group and individual therapy can help you make an informed decision and take the next step toward emotional wellness.

What Is DBT?

DBT, or Dialectical Behavior Therapy, is a structured, evidence-based treatment developed to help individuals manage intense emotions, improve relationships, and develop healthier coping skills.

DBT combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness and acceptance strategies. It teaches clients how to regulate emotions, tolerate distress, and communicate more effectively. As a result, it’s often used in both addiction treatment and mental health programs for conditions such as anxiety, depression, trauma, or borderline personality disorder.

DBT Group Therapy: Learning Through Connection

Group DBT sessions provide a supportive environment where clients learn skills together. These sessions are typically led by a licensed therapist and follow a structured curriculum that covers core DBT modules such as:

• Mindfulness
• Emotion Regulation
• Distress Tolerance
• Interpersonal Effectiveness

In group DBT, participants practice new skills, share insights, and gain encouragement from others who understand similar struggles.

Benefits of Group DBT

• Peer Support: Sharing experiences with others helps reduce isolation and build community.
• Skill Reinforcement: Hearing how others apply DBT skills can strengthen your own understanding.
• Confidence Building: Practicing communication in a group improves real-world social interactions.
• Cost-Effective: Group therapy often costs less than individual sessions, making ongoing treatment more accessible.

When Group DBT Is the Best Fit

Group DBT is ideal for individuals who:

• Thrive in collaborative or social settings
• Want to learn from others’ experiences
• Need consistent structure and accountability
• Are ready to apply DBT skills in real-world situations

Individual DBT Therapy: Focused and Personalized

Individual DBT sessions offer one-on-one time with a therapist, allowing for deeper exploration of emotions, trauma, and personal experiences. This private setting encourages open discussion and helps build trust between client and therapist.

Benefits of Individual DBT

• Personalized Attention: Sessions are tailored to your specific emotional patterns and goals.
• Flexible Pacing: You can move at your own speed, focusing longer on difficult topics when needed.
• Deeper Insight: Therapists can help identify core triggers and develop targeted coping strategies.
• Confidential Environment: Ideal for those who prefer privacy or feel uncomfortable sharing in a group.

When Individual DBT Is the Best Fit

Individual DBT works best for clients who:

• Prefer a one-on-one environment
• Are dealing with trauma, grief, or highly personal challenges
• Need flexible scheduling
• Want intensive, individualized support

How Milestone Recovery Combines Both

At Milestone Recovery, we recognize that every client’s journey is unique. Therefore, our Mesa programs often integrate both group and individual DBT sessions for the best results. Clients can build skills in a group while receiving personalized guidance in private therapy.

This dual approach ensures that clients not only learn DBT concepts but also apply them effectively in daily life. Moreover, combining both formats helps create a strong foundation for emotional balance, self-awareness, and long-term recovery.

Choosing What’s Right for You

The right format depends on your comfort level, goals, and where you are in your recovery or mental health journey. During your initial assessment, our licensed clinicians will help determine whether group DBT, individual DBT, or a combination will work best for you.

No matter which option you choose, you’ll receive compassionate, evidence-based care that supports both personal growth and emotional stability.

Start DBT in Mesa Today

If you’re ready to improve your emotional health, DBT can help you create lasting change. Milestone Recovery offers both group and individual DBT therapy in Mesa — designed to empower you with the tools, confidence, and community needed for long-term success.

Call today at (480) 630-7234 to schedule your free estimate!