Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is DBT with Friends?

    DBT with Friends is a peer-to-peer community dedicated to practicing Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills together. Founded in 2021, we bring people together in supportive group settings to learn and reinforce DBT skills—without the cost barrier of traditional therapy programs. Our goal is to make life-changing coping skills accessible to everyone.

  • Do I need a therapist or diagnosis to join?

    No. DBT with Friends is open to anyone interested in learning DBT skills, regardless of whether you have a therapist, a diagnosis, or any prior mental health experience. Our groups welcome people from all walks of life who want to build healthier coping skills and connect with a supportive community.

  • What happens in a meeting?

    In a meeting, group members come together to practice DBT skills, share experiences, and support one another. Sessions typically include a brief mindfulness exercise, a review or introduction of a DBT skill, and open discussion where members can share how they have been applying skills in their lives. Meetings are facilitated by trained peer facilitators, not therapists.

  • Is this therapy?

    No. DBT with Friends is peer support, not therapy, and is not a replacement for professional mental health treatment. We are peers who have experienced the benefits of DBT and want to share those skills with others. If you need clinical support, we encourage you to seek out a licensed therapist or a traditional DBT program—and we are happy to help with referrals.

  • How do I find a group near me?

    Join our Discord community at discord.gg/nryKR4mK5D to find groups and connect with members. Groups are available both in person and online, so there is likely an option that works for your schedule and location.

  • Can I start my own group?

    Yes! Reach out in our Discord at discord.gg/nryKR4mK5D to connect with organizers and learn how to get started as a facilitator. We actively encourage community members to start their own groups and provide materials, training resources, and administrative support.

  • What DBT skills do you cover?

    Our groups cover all four core modules of DBT: Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Emotion Regulation, and Interpersonal Effectiveness. We work through these skills progressively and revisit them regularly, since consistent practice is what makes them stick. We also aim to incorporate other evidence-based modalities as our community grows.

  • Is it free?

    Yes, DBT with Friends is completely free to join. We believe that access to mental health skills should not be limited by financial resources. If you find value in what we do and want to support our mission, donations are always appreciated but never required.