Learning how to implement our DBT skills takes time & there isn't a DBT T in the world that doesn't know that. As a matter of fact, our DBT is set up to go through each of the sections 2 times & then go on to the next level group while continually working with in private with our own personal T.

Remember, DBT is all about not making the situation worse, but handling what is going on as best as we can while we work on our wise mind thinking on how to solve the problem in the best possible way. Not self-harming & not drinking are biggies, sleeping & eating well are also real biggies (not eating is my problem also....so I can totally relate to your problem with that). Using your ability to observe yourself & understand that you need time to taper off with your T is another real huge insight into what the problem really is for you & thinking how you need to resolve it through possible negotiation. Being aware of what it is that's causing your emotion is a major breakthrough & understanding that your emotion is ok to feel the way you are feeling at this point of being at the end of your therapy. Know your T is observing how you are reacting to this & knows just how much of your DBT you are putting into action. You might not be communicating all this to your T, but make sure that you do because there is no way that a DBT T is going to give up on someone who is able to put so many of the skills into practice.

Our group leader is cute....there are times in our group when we are talking about our week & she says how about the times when she forgets to put her skills into practice also.....she's been working on DBT & presenting the DBT group for years......so not even those who know it thoroughly are able to put the skills into practice when they need them at times......the thing is knowing them & realizing that shows how much you also have learned.

You will get through this & there are some things we radically have to accept like the fact that your therapy is coming to an end, but trying to negotiate the ending of it so you can taper it off more slowly is very wise thinking......but if it's not possible (for what ever reason your T might have), you have the skills to get through that difficult time. Know it's harder to depend on self to point it all out than being able to talk it through with your T, but just always keep your DBT notes with you & keep them open so you can go immediately to them when you need your coaching.

Transition time is very difficult & your T knows that & know they won't give up on you as you have come a very long way & have proved you are able to put your skills into practice....keep up the good work & validate the fact that you are capable & know the skills you have been working on & that it does take time & NO ONE is ever perfect at implementing them 100% all the time. If you can remember enough skills to be able to keep a situation from getting bad even if you can't SOLVE the problem....you are IMPLEMENTING YOUR DBT SKILLS.

Remember, each time we go through a difficult situation, it's a learning opportunity to grow stronger & wiser & see how much we have really learned from our DBT.....you are doing well....keep up the good work as you continue your path through your life.