Imagine Northpoint at Mental Health Symposium in Colorado Springs

Earlier this week at The Advanced International Winter Symposium on Addictive Disorders, Behavioral Health, and Mental Health in Colorado Springs, Colo., Imagine by Northpoint presented the advantages of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) in a group setting. The Lunch & Learn Continuing Education event was hosted by Imagine Fort Collins Program Director Meredith Vasa, LPC, CAS, and titled “Problem Solving and the Serenity Prayer,” where Vasa shared insights into the challenges and opportunities of running an effective DBT skills group on problem-solving.

“Groups offer dynamic avenues to address real-life issues, which can sometimes be challenging in individual therapy,” said Dr. Trevor Bixler, Vice President, Clinical Services at Northpoint Recovery. “Meredith Vasa, who is knowledgeable about the content, uses her personality and authenticity to effectively deliver the material to clients. It’s gratifying to witness the live connection.”

Developing problem-solving skills is just one aspect of the comprehensive therapies offered at Imagine Fort Collins and Northpoint Colorado. DBT skills groups empower clients to take meaningful steps that reduce the intensity of addiction and mental health symptoms.

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) is a therapeutic approach that effectively addresses complex emotional and behavioral challenges, including substance use disorder and alcohol use disorder. DBT blends cognitive-behavioral techniques with Eastern mindfulness practices, focusing on change and acceptance.

When applied in group settings, DBT takes on a powerful dynamic, fostering interpersonal learning and mutual support. It offers a supportive platform for sharing struggles and celebrating successes, which enhances feelings of validation and understanding. Group sessions also provide an opportunity to practice interpersonal skills and receive constructive feedback, fostering accountability for applying these skills outside of therapy.

The skill sets developed through didactic instruction, experiential exercises, and group discussion encompass mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, emotion regulation, and distress tolerance.

The Winter Symposium, held from Feb. 4 through Feb. 7 at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Colorado Springs, Colo., provided valuable education and training for addiction specialists, counselors, and behavioral health professionals. It featured exhibits and presentations on addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders, including trauma, depression, and bipolar. Esteemed addiction specialists and mental health practitioners, including psychologists, psychiatrists, and representatives from military and state agencies, were in attendance.