Wise Mind DBT Brisbane

03/03/2026

Differentiating rejection sensitivity and fear of abandonment in ADHD and BPD, with evidence-based strategies from Dialectical Behaviour Therapy.
Rejection and abandonment are difficult experiences for most people. However, for some, these experiences are not only painful, but overwhelming. They can distort perception, disrupt relationships, and create significant emotional distress. For individuals living with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) or Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), these fears often manifest as either rejection sensitivity or fear of abandonment.

Although they may appear similar on the surface, these emotional experiences have distinct psychological and neurobiological foundations. Understanding the difference is essential for clinicians, carers, and individuals who are navigating intense interpersonal dynamics. This article explores the similarities and differences between rejection sensitivity and fear of abandonment. It also outlines how Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) offers effective, evidence-based support for those experiencing these issues.

Some individuals present with both ADHD and BPD traits, in which case rejection sensitivity and abandonment fear may interact. In such presentations, the emotional volatility may be compounded, requiring comprehensive and carefully tailored intervention.

15/01/2026

Willpower alone is rarely enough to change patterns.
Many people are taught to push through stress, stay strong, and ignore urges. When that does not work, it is easy to assume something is wrong with you. In reality, urges tend to intensify when stress is pushed aside rather than addressed.

Change often becomes more possible when patterns are met with skills, structure, and support rather than endurance alone. Learning how to respond earlier, plan for high risk moments, and recover from setbacks can make change feel steadier and more sustainable.

Our Wise Mind Recovery Skills Course begins in April.

A six week DBT skills group focused on practical tools for managing urges and building a different relationship with substances.

Contact us at the office on 07 2114 7153, or at reception@wise-mind.com.au for more information.

14/01/2026

Anger is not the problem. How we respond to it often is.

This six week DBT Anger Skills Group focuses on understanding anger, reducing reactivity, and building practical skills to respond more effectively in everyday situations.

The group is skills based, structured, and supportive. It is designed for adults who experience intense reactions, ongoing conflict, or difficulty managing anger under stress.

Limited places available.
Enquiries now open.

Phone our office on 07 2114 2153, or email reception@wise-mind.com.au for more info.

13/01/2026

Starting 2026 off the right way.

We always hear about mindfulness, how it helps and how we could utilise this to find balance within ourselves. So we thought we would start a group!

Our aim, is to share with you all how to observe and describe your internal experiences, increase your awareness of the present moment and reducing that emotional reactivity through non judgementalness.

Can't wait to see you there
We have limited spots available, enquire now.

11/01/2026

Sometimes your mind goes time travelling. Mindfulness is how you bring it back. Notice the thought, feel your feet, take a breath, and return to now. The past can visit, but it does not get to run the day.

01/01/2026

Meaningful change rarely arrives on cue.

New years, Mondays, and milestones are often treated as turning points, yet emotional regulation, behavioural change, and identity development do not follow the calendar. They are built through repetition, practice, and time, often in ways that are quiet and easy to miss.

In this new blog, I explore why sustainable change unfolds gradually, how mindfulness non judgementally supports this process, and why letting go of symbolic deadlines can create more compassion and momentum in therapy.

You can read the full post now on the blog.

https://www.wise-mind.com.au/why-meaningful-change-does-not-follow-the-calendar

10/12/2025

Half Smile and Willing Hands are not about forcing positivity or giving up. They are about easing the body out of resistance when tension has taken over. By softening the face and opening the hands, you send a quiet signal of safety to the nervous system.

This small physical shift can reduce emotional intensity, interrupt spirals, and create just enough space to respond rather than react. You do not have to like the situation. You are simply choosing to stop fighting reality in this moment.

Sometimes the most effective regulation begins with the gentlest movement.

17/11/2025

Why Change Feels So Hard (and How DBT Helps You Do It Anyway)!

23/10/2025

~ If you know, you know ~

DBT teaches us that emotions can change quickly and that’s part of being human. The goal isn’t to stop feeling deeply, but to learn skills that help us ride the waves without losing ourselves.

18/10/2025

Ever wondered why certain behaviours keep showing up, even when you’re trying to change them?

Our latest blog explores Chain Analysis in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) a step-by-step process that helps uncover what leads up to problem behaviours and how to change them.

It’s not about blame or shame. It’s about understanding the patterns that keep you stuck and learning how to respond differently next time.

If you’ve ever felt caught in cycles of emotion or reaction, this article offers a clear path toward awareness, compassion, and lasting change.

17/10/2025

MEET THE THERAPISTS

Susan is an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with extensive experience in the alcohol and other drugs (AOD) sector. Her practice is deeply grounded in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) — a gold-standard, evidence-based approach designed to help individuals navigate emotional intensity, strengthen relationships, and create meaningful change.

Drawing on the principles of mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness, Susan supports clients to develop skills that sustain long-term recovery and wellbeing. DBT forms the foundation of her work, while complementary modalities such as Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), Brainspotting, Polyvagal Theory, and somatic vagus nerve work are thoughtfully integrated to support nervous system regulation and trauma recovery.

Guided by neuroscience and a strong social justice framework, Susan’s approach honours each person’s lived experience — particularly at the intersection of mental health, substance use, and systemic inequality. In addition to therapy, Susan provides reflective supervision for practitioners across community and clinical settings, fostering confidence, ethical practice, and compassion in those who support others.

17/10/2025

Exciting news! I’m honoured to partner with Brainz Magazine as an Executive Contributor! Over the coming months, I’ll be sharing insights on DBT, BPD and C-PTSD. I can’t wait to inspire, educate, and connect with a global audience around the world. Stay tuned for my upcoming articles!

Brainz Magazine is a digital publication covering business, mindset, leadership, and more, reaching millions of readers worldwide. It brings together experts, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders to share valuable insights and perspectives. I’m excited to contribute to this platform and be part of a community that values knowledge, growth, and impact!