Somatic DBT Skills

How it works:
Somatic DBT (Dialectical Behaviour Therapy) skills combine traditional DBT strategies with a body-focused approach, helping you manage intense emotions and stress while staying grounded in the present moment. This approach recognises that emotions are not just in the mind, but also expressed and stored in the body. By integrating awareness of physical sensations with DBT techniques like mindfulness, distress tolerance, and emotional regulation, you can respond to difficult experiences more effectively.

In practice:
Sessions involve learning practical skills to observe and regulate both your emotions and bodily responses. You may be guided to notice tension, breathing patterns, or other bodily signals as you practice grounding, self-soothing, or coping strategies. The focus is on building awareness, resilience, and flexibility, allowing you to pause, reflect, and make choices rather than reacting impulsively.

Why it helps:
Somatic DBT skills provide tools to manage overwhelming emotions, reduce impulsive behaviours, and improve emotional regulation. By combining body awareness with DBT strategies, you gain a more holistic way to cope with stress, trauma, and everyday challenges. Over time, this approach can help you feel calmer, more in control, and more connected to both your body and mind.

Who it’s for:
This approach is ideal for anyone struggling with intense emotions, self-regulation difficulties, or the effects of trauma. It is particularly helpful for people who benefit from a structured, skills-based therapy that also incorporates body awareness and grounding techniques. Somatic DBT skills support both mental and physical resilience, making it useful for a wide range of emotional and stress-related challenges.