DBT for Adolescents (DBT-A)
A structured, skills-based group therapy program that helps teens build emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and communication skills—designed specifically for the challenges of adolescence.
Our Certified DBT Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) for Adolescents (DBT-A) is an intensive, skills-based treatment designed specifically for adolescents and their caregivers. This structured program supports teens who struggle with emotional dysregulation, impulsive behaviors, relationship difficulties, and self-harming patterns.
Both the adolescent and one caregiver participate in the full program, attending group and therapy sessions together each week. This parallel learning creates stronger communication, consistent support, and shared accountability at home and beyond.
Program components include:
Weekly Skills Group for teens and caregivers to learn DBT tools
Joint Individual Therapy to personalize skill application
Phone Coaching to support real-time use of skills
Diary Cards to reinforce daily practice and awareness
Therapist Consultation Team to ensure consistent, high-quality DBT care
Teens and caregivers work together across the four DBT modules: Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Emotion Regulation, and Interpersonal Effectiveness. This collaborative, certified DBT approach helps families build consistency, improve communication, and support lasting emotional growth—together.
Who's It For?
Adolescents (aged 13–17) who may experience:
Intense or rapidly shifting emotions
Impulsive or risky behaviors
Difficulty managing relationships
Harmful or ineffective coping strategies
Challenges related to anxiety, depression, or mood dysregulation
Self-harming thoughts or behaviors
Caregivers are required to participate in the program alongside the teen, providing consistent support and reinforcing skill development at home.
What Will It Cost?
We accept most major insurance plans. Coverage and out-of-pocket costs vary by provider and individual plan. It is the client’s responsibility to verify their benefits and coverage with their insurance provider.
Some plans require prior authorization for DBT services. Please confirm with your insurer before starting the group.
For those paying out-of-pocket, please contact us for current rates and payment options.
What to Expect
Assessment & Treatment Planning: An initial comprehensive intake is conducted to determine if the program is a good fit, followed by a customized treatment plan tailored to the teen’s unique goals and challenges.
Session Length & Attendance: Both the teen and their caregiver are required to attend the following weekly appointments:
2-hour skills group
50-minute individual therapy session
Program Duration: Typically 6 months (approximately 26 weeks), though this can vary.
Ongoing Support: Diary cards and phone coaching are used between sessions to encourage ongoing skill practice and support.
Completion & Transition: Upon finishing the program, clients graduate with a transition plan that includes options for continued care or support.
FAQs
Q: Will we need to purchase materials?
No. All necessary materials and handouts are provided at no additional cost.
Q: Can we continue working with my teen's current therapist?
Yes—if the therapist is trained in DBT and willing to collaborate, they may serve as your individual therapist while you participate in our skills group. They’ll need to complete the Outside DBT Provider Contract linked to the right. Please note: A signed Release of Information MUST be in place for us to communicate with any outside professionals.
Q: When does the group meet?
Thursdays from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
Q: How many participants are in the group?
The group is capped at 6 caregiver & adolescent pairs to ensure a focused and supportive environment.
Q: Do I need a referral?
A referral isn’t required. However, if a provider wishes to refer you, they may use the Outside DBT Referral Form provided to the right.
Q: Is there an online option?
Yes, you may attend sessions via secure telehealth, though we recommend in person attendance.
Q: What are the participation requirements?
All participants are expected to agree to the DBT Skills Contract, which outlines group guidelines and expectations.