Support for Teens Through Dialectical Behavior Therapy
Is your teen struggling with emotional regulation, impulsivity, or relationship challenges?
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) provides a structured, skills-based approach that helps adolescents learn practical strategies for managing emotions and building healthy relationships. For many teens, these skills become lifelong tools for stability and confidence.
Mental health challenges among teens are more prevalent than ever. According to the CDC, 42% of high school students reported persistent sadness or hopelessness in 2021, and 22% seriously considered suicide. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) adds that 17% of adolescents experienced at least one major depressive episode in the past year.
At Blume Therapy in Redondo Beach, California, we specialize in evidence-based DBT programs designed specifically for adolescents. Our teen mental health counseling helps young people develop emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness skills to thrive during this crucial stage of life.
What Is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for Adolescents?
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a form of cognitive-behavioral therapy that teaches practical skills for managing emotions and improving relationships. Originally developed by psychologist Marsha Linehan for adults with borderline personality disorder, DBT was later adapted for adolescents (DBT-A) to fit their developmental needs.
“Dialectical” refers to balancing two opposing ideas—acceptance and change. DBT teaches teens to accept themselves as they are while working toward positive change. This mindset helps move away from black-and-white thinking that often fuels emotional distress.
Unlike traditional therapy, DBT emphasizes skill building rather than just processing problems. Teens learn actionable techniques for regulating emotions, tolerating distress, and communicating effectively.
According to NIMH research, DBT is particularly effective for adolescents struggling with:
- Emotional dysregulation
- Self-harming behaviors
- Suicidal thoughts or attempts
- Impulsivity
- Relationship instability
Who Can Benefit from DBT Therapy for Teens?
DBT is ideal for teens ages 12–18 who have difficulty managing emotions or behaviors. During adolescence, the brain regions responsible for impulse control and emotional regulation are still developing, making teens more vulnerable to emotional swings and risky decision-making.
Teens who may benefit from DBT often experience:
- Intense emotions or mood swings
- Impulsive or risky behaviors
- Self-harm or suicidal ideation
- Family or peer conflicts
- Substance use or disordered eating
- Black-and-white thinking
- Identity confusion or low self-esteem
A 2022 study in the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry found that teens in DBT programs showed significant improvement in emotional regulation and reduced self-harming behaviors compared to standard therapy.
At Blume Therapy, we recognize that many challenging behaviors stem from attempts to cope with overwhelming emotions. Through DBT, teens learn healthier ways to manage distress and build resilience.
Core DBT Skills for Teens
DBT helps teens master four core skill sets that promote emotional stability and stronger relationships.
Mindfulness teaches teens to stay present and observe thoughts and emotions without judgment. It forms the foundation of all DBT skills.
Key techniques include:
- Observe: Notice thoughts and sensations without reacting
- Describe: Label experiences neutrally
- Participate: Engage fully in the moment
- One-mindfully: Focus on one task at a time
- Effectively: Choose actions that align with goals
Example: A teen anxious before a test may use mindful breathing for one minute, helping them respond calmly instead of reacting impulsively.
These skills help teens survive emotional crises without making things worse.
Strategies include:
- TIPP: Temperature change, Intense exercise, Paced breathing, Progressive muscle relaxation
- Distraction: Shifting focus through activities
- Self-soothing: Using the five senses to relax
- Radical acceptance: Acknowledging reality without resistance
For instance, a teen feeling the urge to self-harm might hold an ice cube or take a brisk walk—safe alternatives that help the emotional wave pass.
Emotion regulation skills help teens understand and manage their emotions effectively.
Techniques include:
- Identifying and naming emotions
- Reducing emotional vulnerability through sleep, nutrition, and self-care
- Increasing positive experiences
- Acting opposite to emotional urges
Teens may track emotions daily to spot patterns and apply healthier coping strategies when faced with anger, sadness, or anxiety.
These skills teach teens to maintain healthy relationships and set boundaries.
Common strategies:
- DEAR MAN: Describe, Express, Assert, Reinforce, stay Mindful, Appear confident, Negotiate
- GIVE: Gentle, Interested, Validate, Easy manner
- FAST: Fair, no Apologies for existing, Stick to values, Truthful
Example: A teen may use DEAR MAN to calmly ask parents for a curfew extension or resolve a misunderstanding with a friend.
How DBT Works for Adolescents
A comprehensive teen DBT program includes four components that work together to promote growth:
- Individual Therapy: Weekly 50–60-minute sessions to address personal challenges, set goals, and review progress.
- Group Skills Training: Weekly 90–120-minute sessions teaching DBT skills with peers. Teens practice techniques and support one another.
- Phone Coaching: Real-time support when teens face distress between sessions, helping them apply DBT skills in everyday life.
- Family Sessions: Parents learn DBT principles to support their teen and reinforce skills at home. Family involvement strengthens outcomes.
Programs typically last 16–24 weeks, though some teens benefit from longer participation. Progress is measured through assessments, diary cards, and feedback from both teens and parents.
| Component | Standard Therapy | Comprehensive DBT |
| Structure | Weekly sessions | Structured protocol with four components |
| Skills Focus | General discussions | Systematic skills training |
| Between-Session Support | Limited | Phone coaching |
| Family Involvement | Optional | Integrated |
| Homework | Optional | Required |
| Group Component | Rare | Weekly sessions |
| Crisis Management | General planning | Specific distress tolerance tools |
Evidence-Based Outcomes of DBT for Teens
Research consistently supports DBT’s effectiveness in improving emotional and behavioral functioning among adolescents.
A 2023 Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry study found:
- 48% reduction in self-harming behaviors (vs. 27% with standard care)
- Sustained improvements 12 months post-treatment
An NIMH-funded 2022 study found teens in DBT had a 36% lower risk of suicide attempts than those receiving treatment-as-usual.
Additional improvements include:
- 62% improvement in emotional regulation
- Fewer school absences and better academic performance
- Stronger family relationships and reduced conflict
- 43% fewer psychiatric hospitalizations
At Blume Therapy, we monitor outcomes using standardized tools, such as the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale (DERS) and the Youth Outcome Questionnaire (Y-OQ), to track measurable progress.
Common DBT Activities and Worksheets for Teens
DBT involves hands-on exercises that make skill-building practical and engaging.
Teens use diary cards to record:
- Daily emotions (0–5 scale)
- Triggers and stressors
- Skills used
- Urges for self-harm or impulsive behavior
These help identify emotional patterns and monitor growth over time.
Simple breathing exercises, such as box breathing or 4-7-8 breathing, calm the nervous system and help teens regain control in stressful moments.
Teens practice communication and boundary setting in guided scenarios, such as requesting help, resolving conflicts, or saying “no” confidently.
Teens develop personalized crisis plans, identify healthy distractions, and practice radical acceptance to manage emotional intensity.
Family Involvement in DBT for Teens
Family participation is a vital part of DBT. When parents and caregivers learn the same skills, teens are more likely to apply them consistently.
In family sessions, parents learn to:
- Validate emotions without reinforcing negative behaviors
- Use DBT’s “middle path” — balancing acceptance and change
- Respond calmly to emotional outbursts
- Support skill use at home
A 2021 study in the Journal of Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology found that family involvement improved emotion regulation and family communication.
At Blume Therapy, our family component includes regular sessions, coaching, and resources to help parents reinforce skills and care for their own well-being.
FAQs About DBT for Teens
Individual sessions typically cost $150–$300, and group sessions $50–$100. Blume Therapy accepts many insurance plans and offers sliding-scale options.
Yes. Blume Therapy offers virtual DBT programs that include individual, group, and family sessions, all utilizing the same evidence-based approach.
Resistance is common at first. Our therapists use motivational strategies to connect therapy goals with what matters most to your teen.
Many families notice better communication and emotional control within 8–12 weeks, with lasting improvement after completing a full 16–24-week program.
Moving Forward with Teen-Focused DBT in Redondo Beach
Dialectical Behavior Therapy provides teens with the tools to regulate their emotions, strengthen relationships, and build a fulfilling life. The combination of acceptance and change helps teens embrace who they are while making meaningful improvements.
For parents concerned about their teen’s emotional well-being, DBT offers a structured, evidence-based path forward. At Blume Therapy in Redondo Beach, our compassionate team tailors DBT to each teen’s needs, integrating additional evidence-based approaches when appropriate.
If your teen is struggling, help is available. Contact Blume Therapy to schedule a consultation and learn how DBT can help your teen find balance, confidence, and hope.
Brian is a licensed marriage and family therapist with nearly a decade of experience working with diverse populations and age groups in various settings, including community mental health, treatment facilities, and private practice. He earned his Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University and specializes in working with adolescents and young adults. Brian’s areas of expertise include addressing challenges related to chronic illness, substance abuse, family issues, and academic struggles.
