Dialectical Behavior Therapy is an Effective Treatment for Teens

There are many forms of therapy that are used to treat teen psychological illnesses. One of them is Dialectical Behavior Therapy, otherwise known as DBT. This form of talk therapy is similar to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. However, its structure and focus are slightly different. DBT has become so effective that it’s known among mental health professionals as an evidence-based treatment method for psychological illness for both teens and adults. This means that evidence exists for the effectiveness of this type of therapy in treatment.  

DBT is a behavioral therapy meaning that it focuses on a teen’s behavior to measure his or her progress. Therefore, it provides tools and teaches certain skills that can help to modify a teen’s behavior so that it’s healthy and safe. In fact, this form of therapy is considered to be a treatment method for psychosocial illnesses, including addiction and personality disorders. DBT teaches adolescents the skills they need to move closer to their life goals and assists them in integrating those skills into everyday life. When a psychological illness gets in the way of functioning in school, home, and work, a teen may need tools to manage his or her symptoms. DBT is meant to address those issues by teaching skills to cope with interfering thoughts, feelings and behavioral patterns. Additionally, DBT aims to replace any self-defeating, dysfunctional coping mechanisms, such as relying upon substances in order to feel better. 

In fact, one skill that is the focus of DBT is mindfulness. This tool helps one become more aware of the present moment and all that is happening within and around a person. Mindfulness can assist a teen in becoming more aware of those thoughts that might trigger substance use, self-harming behavior, or aggression. In fact, DBT is a compassionate treatment method that can bring meaning and purpose into a teen’s life. DBT can help a teen with understanding and managing overwhelming emotions, learning more about oneself and thinking patterns, dealing with difficult people in life – including parents, learning more effective ways of coping with stress, and improving relationships. 

DBT consists of both individual therapy as well as group therapy. However, one significant aspect of this treatment method is to participate in a 16-week Skills group, which is the venue for learning the necessary life skills that make DBT so effective. The Skills Group typically meets for 90 minutes once per week, while individual therapy or group therapy can take place once to twice per week, focusing on sharpening skills and integrating them into daily life.

Research indicates that those adolescents who participate in DBT are half as likely to make a suicide attempt and required fewer hospitalizations. They were also less likely to drop out of treatment. DBT has been successful for many years. 

If you are a caregiver or parent of a teen with a psychological illness, consider Dialectical Behavior Therapy as a treatment method for your teen.