Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) 

DBT for Teens, Young Adults, and Families

Life can feel overwhelming for teens and young adults struggling with intense emotions, self-harm behaviors, anxiety, depression, or challenges with emotional regulation. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based treatment designed to provide practical skills and support for managing life’s challenges.

I have over 10 years of experience leading DBT groups for adolescents and families, and I bring that expertise to individual therapy, family work, and skills groups in private practice.

What is DBT?

DBT is a structured, skills-based therapy that teaches individuals how to:

• Mindfulness: Stay present and grounded in the moment

• Distress Tolerance: Manage crises and cope with intense emotions without impulsive actions

• Emotion Regulation: Understand, reduce, and balance strong emotions

• Interpersonal Effectiveness: Communicate clearly and maintain healthy relationships

DBT emphasizes practical, actionable skills that can be applied in daily life — helping teens, young adults, and families navigate emotional ups and downs with confidence. 

How DBT Helps Teens & Young Adults

Through DBT, your child or teen can:

• Learn to manage anxiety, depression, and emotional dysregulation

• Reduce self-harming behaviors and risky coping patterns

• Develop healthy relationships and communication skills

• Build confidence, resilience, and emotional awareness

• Strengthen problem-solving, stress management, and decision-making skills

For young adults, DBT is especially effective for managing life transitions, such as adjusting to college, navigating relationships, and building independence.

DBT with Families

For teens, DBT is most effective when families are involved. I work with parents and caregivers to:

• Understand DBT skills and reinforce them at home

• Learn strategies to respond effectively to emotional crises

• Improve communication and connection within the family

• Support their teen’s growth while maintaining healthy boundaries

“DBT helped my teen not only manage their emotions but gave our family a shared language to support each other.” — Parent (anonymous)

Why Work With Me for DBT

• Over 10 years of experience leading DBT groups for teens and families

• Intensive DBT training during postdoctoral fellowship at an Eating Disorder Program

• Expertise in self-harm behaviors, eating disorders, anxiety, and depression

• Private practice focused on personalized, parent-supported care

• Experience in college counseling for young adults navigating life transitions

Take the Next Step

If your teen or young adult is struggling with emotional regulation, anxiety, depression, or self-harm behaviors, DBT may be the right approach. I provide individualized DBT services in a supportive, structured environment.