Dialectical Behavior Therapy - Greenwich Psychology Group

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy for Children

Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based approach that is effective for children and adolescents struggling with regulating their emotions (intense anxiety, anger, or self-harm) and behaviors. DBT helps children and adolescents understand and learn new ways to manage big emotions and extreme behaviors through learning emotional and behavior regulation, distress tolerance skills, interpersonal effectiveness, mindfulness, and flexible thinking patterns.

Parents may feel like they are ‘walking on eggshells’ to avoid confrontations or explosions. DBT incorporates a parent training component as well as family therapy sessions focused on building new skills. Parents will build on their skills to enhance their coping abilities while managing their child’s emotions and behaviors. Our clinicians will tailor treatment to support the needs at home and school. Your child will learn and practice new ways of managing their feelings and behaviors in a non-judgmental and nurturing environment.

When Should Parents Consider DBT for Their Child?

Tantrums are a natural part of a child expressing anger or irritation, but when their tempers are frequent, they might benefit from treatment. Having your child work through DBT early may prevent other mental health concerns in the future.

Additionally, DBT might be suitable for children if they have any of the following:

High sensitivity: DBT doesn’t just treat anger. Children with a high sensitivity react immediately and intensely to any emotional trigger. As a result, it may be hard for them to calm down and process correct responses.
Impulsive behavior: A child with high sensitivity may also act upon those emotions through physical or verbal aggression.

Specifically, DBT might help the following disorders:

Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder: A child with DMDD has severe, frequent outbursts. DBT has been an effective treatment for this newly recognized disorder.
Borderline personality disorder: BPD affects how someone views themself. DBT can be especially helpful for those who suffer from self-harm.
Eating disorders: DBT can help children manage the emotions behind their eating disorders.
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): Children with a lot of energy but no healthy way to expend it may engage in impulsive behaviors. This behavior is a common sign of ADHD. DBT helps children cope with ADHD symptoms.
Depression or anxiety: These mental health conditions can lead to high emotional sensitivity, and DBT can assist with managing those emotions.

Benefits of DBT for Kids

Children can benefit from DBT in several ways:

They will develop skills they can apply to multiple situations beyond their mental illness.
Your child’s relationships will improve as they are taught the importance of connecting with others in hardships.
They will be assured that finding things tricky is okay and will learn ways to cope appropriately.
With one of the major focuses of DBT, your child’s quality of life will enhance as they are taught to move forward.

Contact Greenwich Contact New York

Child DBT Therapy in Greenwich, CT and Manhattan, NY

At Greenwich Psychology Group, our therapists are committed to helping your child create a life they love. For more information on child DBT therapy near you, contact us online or by calling 203-900-1666 to request a consultation.

Take the GPG Symptom Checker

At Greenwich Psychology Group, our symptom checker helps clients track their symptoms of depression or anxiety. Taking the assessment doesn't provide a formal diagnosis, but it can help you determine what next steps you may need to take. The evaluation uses a series of questions to review the feelings and symptoms you've experienced over the past two weeks. The results will help you distinguish if professional help is the best next step.

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