DBT for Teens, Young Adults, and Families

Life can feel overwhelming for teens and young adults who struggle 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 emotions, improving relationships, and navigating life's challenges with greater confidence.

I have over 105ears 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. I Provide Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for teens in Charlotte and surrounding communities. 

DBT is especially effective for teens who experience strong emotions and need structured tools to manage them. 

What is DBT?

DBT is a structured, skills-based therapy designed to help individuals understands and manage intense emotions while building healthier ways of responding to stress.

DBT focuses on teaching practical skills in four core areas:

Mindfulness

Learning to stay present and aware of thoughts, emotions, and experiences without becoming overwhelmed by them.

Distress Tolerance

Developing strategies for coping with difficult situations and emotional crises without impulsive or harmful behaviors.

Emotion Regulation

Understanding what triggers strong emotions and learning ways to balance and manage those feelings more effectively.

Interpersonal Effectiveness

Building skills for communicating clearly, setting boundaries, and maintaining healthy relationships.

These skills help teens and young adults develop tools they can apply in everyday situations.

How DBT Helps 

Through DBT, a person 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

DBT for Young Adults

For young adults, DBT can provide valuable tools for navigating important life transitions, such as adjusting to college, navigating relationships, and building independence.

DBT skills can help young adults:

• Manage academic or career stress
• Navigate relationships and independence
• Regulate emotions during life transitions
• Build healthy coping strategies for long-term well-being

DBT and Family Involvement

For teens, DBT is often most effective when families are involved in the process.

I work with parents and caregivers to help them:

• Understand DBT skills and reinforce them at home
• Learn strategies for responding effectively during emotional crises
• Improve communication and connection within the family
• Support their teen’s growth while maintaining healthy boundaries

Many parents share that DBT provides a shared language and framework that helps families navigate difficult moments with greater understanding and calm.

Why Work With Me for DBT

• Over 20 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, family-supported care
• Experience working with young adults navigating college and 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 provide the structure and tools needed to move forward.

Reaching out for support can feel like a big step. A consultation can help us discuss your concerns and determine whether DBT may be the right approach for your child or family.

To schedule a consultation, please email me directly at drheidi@ballantynepsych.com