Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Adolescents (DBT-A)

Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Adolescents (DBT-A) is an evidence-based treatment designed to help teens (13-18) manage intense emotions, reduce risky or self-destructive behaviors, and build healthier relationships. Treatment includes individual therapy, a multi-family skills group where teens and caregivers learn skills together, and 24/7 skills coaching from the individual therapist to help apply skills in real-life situations. DBT-A clinicians also participate in a consultation team to maintain adherence to the DBT model and provide consistent, high-quality care. Together, these components create a comprehensive program that supports emotional stability, skill development, and lasting change for teens and families.

Flowchart illustrating four stages of therapy for mental health, including goals, targets, and interventions for each stage from pre-treatment to change.
A young woman sitting outdoors with her head resting on her knees, expressing sadness or contemplation.

Adolescents who could benefit from MF-DBT may struggle with:

  • Emotional dysregulation

  • Frequent mood swings

  • Impulsivity and/or disruptive behaviors

  • Non-suicidal self-injury

  • Suicidal ideation

  • Suicidal behaviors

  • Significant family and social relationship distress

  • Disordered eating behaviors

  • Substance use

  • Ineffective coping skills

  • DBT-A is comprised of four modes of treatment that together form the “comprehensive” model: (1) weekly individual therapy for the adolescent (2) phone coaching (3) multi-family skills group (4) MF-DBT consultation team (an essential component of DBT that does not involve client participation). Family therapy sessions, along with ancillary services (e.g. medication management and nutrition services) may also be recommended, based on symptom presentation. 

  • MF-DBT occurs over the course of four stages of treatment: pre-treatment, stage 1, stage 2, and stage 3.

    Upon beginning stage 1, adolescents and their parents/caregivers will join a 24-week multi-family psychoeducational skills group focused on acquisition of five critical skill sets: Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Emotion Regulation, Interpersonal Effectiveness, and Walking the Middle Path.

    Adolescent and parent/caregiver participation is an integral component of MF-DBT, and therefore, a requirement for MF-DBT skills class. This type of treatment delivery ensures that both adolescents and their caregivers will learn and behaviorally rehearse skills together, thereby promoting increased connectedness and support in the daily application of DBT strategies. 

  • Through knowledge and implementation of DBT skills, adolescents and their families are better equipped to manage crises and communicate effectively, while contending with and tolerating daily life stressors. MF-DBT also assists with problem solving difficult emotions and behaviors, and improves family functioning.

Frequently Asked Questions