Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based treatment created by Dr. Marsha Linehan.  DBT Family is designed for teens and parents who struggle to regulate their emotions and behaviors effectively. Families participate in DBT when traditional psychotherapy, day treatment, and/or hospitalizations have not been effective. Our Family DBT program can also help parents and their kids better see one another’s differing viewpoints which can strengthen their relationships.

Group Details

Who is eligible?

• Families and children ages 8-12
• Families and children struggling with suicidal thoughts, severe emotional dysregulation, self-harm behavior, high intensity of emotions, and/or aggressive verbal or physical behavior
• Most health insurance plans, including Medical Assistance and pre-paid Medical Assistance, plans cover DBT services

What can I expect?

• Weekly individual therapy sessions for child and a minimum of bi-weekly individual sessions for parent/guardian
• Access to phone coaching
• 20-week commitment to family/child program
• The weekly skills training group
• DBT therapists participate in a consultation team
• Weekly homework assignments to help practice skills

What DBT modules are taught?

• Mindfulness – learning skills to help us experience our current environment, sensations, feelings, and thoughts in a non-judgmental way
• Interpersonal Effectiveness – learning skills to help reduce painful and chaotic relationships
• Emotion Regulation – learning skills to help understand and regulate emotions
• Distress Tolerance – learning skills to help survive crises as well as tolerate and deal with pain in a more effective way