About

DBT-A strategically blends behavior therapy (change) with validation (acceptance). DBT-A teaches all of us that we are doing the best we can AND at the same time we need to learn alternative ways to manage our problems more effectively. Learning how to think and act dialectically helps individuals achieve a more balanced lifestyle which ultimately helps people move toward having a life that feels more meaningful and worth living.

DBT was initially developed to treat suicidality in adults with borderline personality disorder; however, it is now being used effectively with adolescents with similar self-harm behaviors as well as other co-occurring mental health concerns such as depression and anxiety. Treatment is designed specifically for adolescents with Nonsuicidal self-injurious behaviors, such as self-cutting, suicidal thoughts, urges to commit suicide and suicide attempts.

Parental involvement is critical to the initial and ongoing success of treatment. Parents/caregivers participate in weekly multi-family groups along with their adolescent, because adolescents consistently make more effective use of treatment if their parents/caregivers learn the same skills as them.