Category: Featured

Compassion Above Everything Else

From the moment Martin Bohus opened the congress with the words “DBT is more than psychotherapy—it’s a way of living, a political act, and an expression of solidarity”, the tone was set: this gathering in Gdańsk, Poland would not only advance clinical knowledge, but also speak to the heart of what brings us all to DBT—our shared commitment to reduce suffering, and to do so with skill and compassion.

Over three days, clinicians, researchers, and individuals with lived experience came together to reflect, challenge, celebrate, and grow. Michaela Swales shared powerful insights on implementation, reminding us that teams need systems that support them—because sustainability and structure are the foundation for change. Julieta Azevedo gave a forward-looking plenary on the state of DBT research, calling us to expand our evidence base and methods to reach those still too often left out.

The congress also sparked conversations in areas where DBT continues to grow. Sarah Biedermann’s work on sexuality and BPD invited us to reflect on what we may hesitate to name, and how healing must include the whole person. Luisa Weiner and Anne Huntjens made a compelling case for adapting DBT for autistic clients, reminding us that validation must always meet people where they are. Jake Camp helped us think more deeply about LGBTQ+ inclusion, safe spaces, and what truly affirmative therapy looks like.

And then there were moments that asked us to slow down and truly sit with the hardest questions. The symposium on assisted dying in the context of personality disorder, led by Christian Schmahl, Ann Berens, Ellen Clifford, and Lars Mehlum, was one such space. It reminded us that our work is not only clinical—it is profoundly ethical. The call was clear: no one should be asked to choose death without having first been offered effective, compassionate care.

While this recap touches only a fraction of what unfolded in Gdańsk, we want to express deep gratitude to every presenter, workshop leader, and participant who contributed to this extraordinary event. From intensive diary card sessions to team leadership consultations, from mindfulness to family interventions, and from discussions on dissociation to systemic barriers in care—each offering added richness and depth.

The congress closed with the Nada te turbe dance—a moving tribute to Marsha Linehan and a beautiful reminder that DBT is not just a method; it’s a way of walking with others through suffering toward life worth living.

See you in Italy, May 13–15, 2027. Until then, let’s keep the connection alive.