Dialectical Behavioral Therapy for Multi-problem Teens and their Families

An adaptation of DBT was created to treat emotional instability in adolescents by Dr. Alec Miller & Dr. Jill Rathus. In this program, the teen receives one-on-one treatment, but skills training is done with the teen & parents together in a multi-family skills class. In this format, families can support each other while all learning and using the same skills, so that skillful behaviors can be rewarded & family conflict is reduced.

Structure and Length

The adherent treatment structure involves four components and is delivered by intensively trained clinicians. The treatment lasts 32 weeks and the client must agree to participate in all parts of the treatment in order to be accepted into the program. The following list outlines the program components in more detail:

• Weekly multi-family skills group. These groups last 2 hours and include all family members at one cost.

• Weekly individual therapy with an intensively trained therapist

• Family Therapy as needed (minimum of 3 per family)

• A DBT consultation team that meets weekly - included in price of class and individual

• Skills coaching for parents and teen to help the family practice skills outside of the session- Available 7 days per week and included in price of class and individual

Learn more about the research supporting DBT by clicking below: