Behavioral Therapies

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) is a form of psychotherapy that can be particularly helpful for teenagers and young adults who are struggling with emotional regulation, interpersonal difficulties, and self-destructive behaviors. If you or a loved one is considering DBT, here are a few things you can expect during a typical session:

1. Collaborative approach: DBT is a collaborative approach to therapy, which means that you and your therapist will work together as a team to identify areas of difficulty and set goals for therapy. Your therapist will listen carefully to your concerns and work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that meets your specific needs.

2. Skills training: One of the key components of DBT is skills training. This typically involves learning a set of specific skills designed to help you regulate your emotions, improve your relationships, and cope with stress more effectively. These skills may include mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness.

3. Homework and practice: In DBT, you will be expected to practice the skills you learn in session outside of therapy. Your therapist may assign homework assignments or encourage you to practice skills in real-life situations. By practicing these skills regularly, you can develop new habits and patterns of behavior that can lead to lasting change.

4. Individual and group therapy: DBT typically involves a combination of individual therapy and group therapy. In individual therapy, you will meet one-on-one with your therapist to discuss your progress and work on specific areas of difficulty. In group therapy, you will have the opportunity to practice the skills you are learning with others who are also working to improve their emotional regulation and interpersonal skills.

5. Validation and acceptance: Finally, DBT is rooted in the principles of validation and acceptance. Your therapist will work to create a safe and supportive environment where you feel heard and understood. Through validation and acceptance, you can learn to accept yourself and your emotions, which can ultimately help you move towards a more fulfilling and meaningful life.

Overall, DBT can be a highly effective form of therapy for teenagers and young adults who are struggling with emotional regulation, self-destructive behaviors, and relationship difficulties. By working collaboratively with a trained DBT therapist, you can learn the skills you need to navigate life's challenges more effectively and build a life worth living.