Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Children (DBT-C)
What is dialectical behavior therapy for children?
Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Children (DBT-C) is an intensive, evidenced based treatment designed to help children and pre-adolescents with severe emotional dysregulation and ensuing behavioral dyscontrol (i.e., frequent, sudden and intense emotional reactions that tend to last much longer that other peers of their same age and result in problematic behaviors).
Children who are prone to emotional dysregulation may be referred to as “super sensors,” as they often feel overwhelmed by their own emotions; struggle with transitions; appear irritable or anxious, and may exhibit aggressive and/or risky behavior when dysregulated. As “super sensors,” these children also have incredible “super powers” that allow them to be more empathic, creative, and compassionate when they are given the tools to understand and manage their emotions.
Why DBT-C?
Research demonstrates that “super sensor” children are at higher risk for developing alcohol and substance use problems, suicidality and non-suicidal self-injury, depression, anxiety, and personality disorders in adolescence and adulthood (Althoff, Verhulst, Retlew, Hudziak, & Van der Ende, 2010; Okado & Bierman, 2014; Pickles et al., 2009). Given these findings, DBT-C aims to equip parents and their children with the tools they need to create change within their environment, resulting in less severe emotional and behavioral dysregulation. DBT-C also provides a framework for managing and preventing future concerns. Thus, this treatment uses a three-pronged, prevention- focused approach:
Parenting Coaching
Family Skills Training
Individual Therapy Sessions (with child)