Program Terms & Policies

A Life In Balance DBT Skills Training Group

Format: Virtual Group Skills Training

Duration: 24 Weeks (unless otherwise specified)

This document outlines the terms, expectations, and policies governing participation in the DBT Skills Training Group. Please read carefully. Participation in the program is contingent upon acknowledgment and agreement to all terms outlined below.

1. Program Structure & Scope

I understand that this program is a DBT Skills Training Group designed to teach evidence-based Dialectical Behavior Therapy skills, including but not limited to mindfulness, emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness.

I acknowledge that:

• This program is skills-based and psychoeducational, not a substitute for individual psychotherapy.

• This program does not include individual DBT therapy, phone coaching, or crisis intervention. (Individual therapy and phone/text coaching are available as optional add-ons under separate agreements.)

• Ongoing individual therapy is required throughout the program. If I stop individual therapy, or go more than 4 consecutive weeks without an individual session, I am no longer eligible to remain in the group.

• This program does not replace higher levels of care (e.g., IOP, PHP, inpatient treatment) when clinically indicated.

• Participation requires that I be physically located in a state where the provider is licensed (California or Florida) during sessions.

2. Attendance & Participation Expectations

I understand and agree that:

• Consistent attendance is essential for skill acquisition and group cohesion.

• I am expected to attend sessions on time and remain present for the full duration.

• Attendance follows the four-miss rule: if you miss four scheduled group sessions in a row, you are out of the group for the remainder of the cycle and cannot rejoin until the next cycle. This rule is firm and applies regardless of reason, and it is separate from the four-week individual-therapy requirement above. Excessive absences may also result in removal from the group without refund.

• Participation includes active engagement, respectful listening, and willingness to practice skills both in and outside of group.

3. Camera-On Requirement

I acknowledge that:

• This is a camera-on group to support therapeutic engagement, accountability, and group safety.

• My camera must remain on for the duration of each session unless prior approval is granted for clinical or technical reasons.

• Repeated failure to comply with the camera-on requirement may result in removal from the session or program.

4. Make-Up Session & Recording Policy

I understand that:

• Live attendance is strongly encouraged and preferred.

• If a session is missed, I may be granted access to a session recording for skills review only, when available.

• Recordings are provided as a courtesy and do not replace live participation.

• Make-up sessions, individual reviews, or private consultations are not guaranteed and may not be available.

5. Recording & Confidentiality Policy

I acknowledge that:

• Sessions may be recorded by the facilitator for educational, make-up, or quality assurance purposes.

• Participants are strictly prohibited from recording, photographing, or distributing any portion of group sessions.

• Confidentiality of all group members must be respected at all times.

• Any breach of confidentiality may result in immediate removal from the program without refund.

6. Billing, Payment, & Refund Policies

I understand and agree that:

• All fees are due according to the selected payment plan and track.

• Before enrollment is approved: if I am not approved following clinical review, or I do not meet eligibility requirements, my initial payment is refunded in full.

• Once eligibility is confirmed and participation begins, all payments are non-refundable. Missed sessions, early withdrawal, scheduling conflicts, or dissatisfaction do not qualify for refunds.

• For the paid-in-full Intensive Track, the full amount paid is non-refundable once participation begins.

• For the monthly Continuity Track, amounts already paid are non-refundable; if I withdraw, future monthly billing ends effective the next billing cycle.

• If A Life In Balance cancels the program or is unable to deliver scheduled sessions, I will receive a prorated refund for any sessions not provided.

• Failure to remain current on payments may result in suspension or termination from the program.

7. Technology Requirement

I acknowledge that participation requires:

• A stable internet connection

• A private, quiet location

• A device with video and audio capability (camera and microphone)

• Basic familiarity with Zoom or the designated virtual platform

Technical issues on my end do not obligate the facilitator to provide make-up sessions or refunds.

8. Group Conduct & Behavioral Expectations

I agree to:

• Treat all group members and facilitators with respect.

• Refrain from interrupting, cross-talk, shaming, or hostile behavior.

• Avoid substance use during sessions.

• Follow facilitator guidance related to safety, boundaries, and group process.

I understand that disruptive, unsafe, or disrespectful behavior may result in removal from the group without refund.

9. Ethical & Safety Considerations

I acknowledge that:

• This group is not designed to manage acute crises.

• If I experience suicidal ideation, self-harm urges, or emotional destabilization beyond my ability to manage safely, I am responsible for seeking immediate support through my individual therapist, emergency services, or crisis resources such as the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (call or text 988).

• The facilitator reserves the right to recommend a higher level of care if clinically indicated.

10. Acknowledgment & Agreement

By signing below, I confirm that:

• I have read and understand all Program Terms & Policies.

• I have had the opportunity to ask questions and seek clarification.

• I voluntarily agree to abide by all expectations outlined above.

• I understand that failure to comply with these terms may result in removal from the program.