What is Dialectical Behavior Therapy?

DBT and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Kids and Teens 

As a parent, it’s heartbreaking to see your child struggle. Whether they’re dealing with anxiety, depression or mood swings, you may not know how to help. One evidence-based treatment that’s proven effective over the years is dialectical behavior therapy (DBT).

DBT can help manage mood swings and sudden impulses  

DBT is a form of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), a form of talk therapy that helps patients recognize and change negative patterns. The idea is simple: Thoughts can influence our feelings – and feelings can influence our behaviors. By challenging confusing thoughts, kids and teens can improve their emotional responses and decision making.

For example, a child thinks, “I’m terrible at math and I’ll never get better.” They may avoid studying and struggle in school. CBT helps replace this unhelpful thought with something constructive such as, “Math is challenging but I will improve with practice and support.”

DBT helps support children with depression and anxiety 

CBT is effective for many mental health conditions, including anxiety and depression. However, certain children and adolescents may need more than just identifying their negative thoughts. They’ll need practical skills to regulate intense emotions and handle stress in new, healthy ways. That’s where DBT comes in. 

DBT is a specialized type of therapy designed to help kids who might experience overpowering emotions, stress and self-destructive behaviors. A form of psychotherapy, DBT may help conditions including: 

• Depression and anxiety
• Chronic stress
• Self-harm behaviors
• Suicidal thoughts
• Trauma-related issues

According to the American Psychological Association (APA), DBT is particularly effective for kids and teens who feel overwhelmed by uncontrollable sadness or emotions. Patients learn the power of managing fearful thoughts in a healthy and holistic way. 

People across the country struggle with rapid mood changes and impulsive behaviors that often include: 

• Sudden verbal or nonverbal outbursts of anger  
• Self-destructive behaviors (like substance use)
• Acting without thinking 
• Constantly interrupting  
• Fear of social rejection 
• Emotional distress when facing conflict

Group therapy, DBT coaching and coping skills

Through individual therapy, group skills training and coaching, children and teens can learn how to replace impulsive reactions with thoughtful responses. Over time, this improves the ability to handle stress, make better decisions and enhance relationships.

DBT is especially beneficial for young people who experience intense ups and downs. The therapy teaches coping skills and how to recognize (and avoid) potential triggers. DBT helps students to maintain emotional balance and practice problem-solving skills.

For parents, the first step is to talk with a mental health professional. A licensed therapist trained in DBT can assess a child’s needs and recommend the best treatment. You’re not alone and seeking help is the first step toward healing and hope.

Contact us 

Admissions staff at LifeWorks Schools in Pennsylvania are available Monday-Friday from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. to schedule a local tour or intake. For questions about programming, call 215-489-3028 or complete the online contact form.