What is Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and How Can it Help My Teen?

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based psychological treatment that helps people manage difficult emotions and decrease conflict in their relationships. It has been used successfully for treating a variety of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, substance abuse, eating disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder and borderline personality disorder. 

DBT is particularly utilized among the teen population, where interpersonal conflict and emotions may be heightened due to the volatile combination of complex social structures and underdeveloped emotional maturity.  

The key components of DBT include individual therapy sessions with a trained therapist; weekly group skills training classes; coaching phone calls between sessions; and structured skills practice. 

The skills taught in DBT focus on four modules: mindfulness, distress tolerance skills, emotion regulation skills and interpersonal skills.

In group skills training sessions, individuals learn how to apply these skills to their life situations. They also gain an understanding of how their emotions work and how to stay in control during difficult times. Groups purposefully churn up difficult emotions, so that the participants can practice the self-regulation techniques outlined in DBT. 

During group and individual therapy sessions, practitioners will discuss topics such as understanding emotions, recognizing patterns in behavior, developing healthier coping strategies, and building better relationships with others. The goal is to help individuals understand themselves better so they can make more informed decisions about their lives. 

Ultimately, the aim of DBT is for people to be able to manage intense emotions without relying on unhealthy behaviors or extreme reactions.

The goal of DBT is to help people cope with extreme emotional experiences and develop healthier thinking patterns. It combines standard cognitive-behavioral techniques, such as problem solving and distress tolerance, with mindfulness practices. DBT emphasizes the importance of acceptance, balance, and change.

Overall, Dialectical Behavior Therapy is a highly effective treatment for many mental health issues, but especially Borderline Personality Disorder, which can be treatment resistant with other modalities. 

By providing skills to manage emotions and decrease conflict, Dialectical Behavior Therapy can be an important tool for those struggling with mental health issues. Through skills development and self-acceptance, individuals can find the courage to make positive changes in their lives and improve their overall well-being. With DBT, individuals are empowered to take control of their mental health journey.

To learn more about our Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and mindfulness offerings, please contact Kairos Wellness Collective today.