What is an MBT informed group?
It is a 14 week group to help people to improve their mentalizing. ‘Mentalizing’ is the ability think and feel at the same time, in a balanced way, about what takes place in oneself, in others and between people. This group is based on the principles of Mentalization Based Treatment (MBT). This treatment approach focuses on improving emotional awareness of oneself and others so that responses to situations and people are less automatic and reactive, and more reflective and flexible.
What difference does mentalizing make in everyday life?
An ability to calibrate and regulate ourselves and be open to others is a central part of a meaningful social life. When we have people in our life that we can go to for care and understanding, often we feel better and more open to new experiences and opportunities.
Who is the group for?
The MBT informed group is for people who may experience difficulties with the following things:
- Sudden mood changes that can feel intense and overwhelming.
- Relationships may be challenging, including being intense or unstable, or you may avoid relationships all together.
- Feeling unsure of your identity.
- Acting impulsively to manage overwhelming or distressing emotions.
- Feelings of emptiness inside.
How long does the group last?
The group runs for 14 weeks and meets in-person for 90 mins. You will be expected to attend each group to get the most out of the intervention.
Where does the group take place?
Groups will be available in community venues in both Bristol and North Somerset. Before joining, a team member from Sequoia will give you details on where your nearest group takes place.
How many people will be at the group?
There will be approximately 10 participants in every group. They will be the same for the entire 14 weeks.
Three members of our team will facilitate the group. Sometimes trainees may observe to learn to become a facilitator. We will tell you if there are any trainees observing at the start of the first session.
What will be expected of me?
Prior to joining the group, you will be invited to attend a 1:1 appointment with a member of staff to ensure the intervention is appropriate to meet your needs and to ensure you are ready to commit.
If following this, you are invited to join our MBT informed group, you will be expected to attend our weekly group. We ask that you attend a minimum of 12 out of 14 sessions in order to make the most of the group.
What does the group involve?
The MBT informed group involves an introduction to mentalizing principles with scenarios that are relevant to your daily life. Mentalizing has been found to be an effective approach for understanding the challenges and experiences associated with complex emotional needs/emotional intensity. The groups will discuss what mentalizing is and its role in how we manage our emotions and navigate relationships. We will also think about how our experiences of relationships and emotions growing up, impact on our experiences in relationships as adults. Other sessions will cover difficulties you may experience such as depression and anxiety and how to understand and manage these.
What if I feel nervous about group work?
It is perfectly natural to feel nervous about meeting a group of new people and sharing with them. A group treatment can be very helpful, as you can learn from fellow group members and share each other’s ideas as they get discussed in the group. It can also help you feel better, as you no longer feel so alone, and can see there are others who experience similar problems to you. This bond between group members is often one of the most useful factors in groups being found to be helpful for those using them.