COMPASS

Dialectical Behavior Therapy draws upon the traditions of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Philosophy, Biosocial Theory and Eastern mindfulness practices. A growing body of research indicates that it is helpful to adolescents and young adults with multiple problems. The overarching goal of DBT is to assist you in creating a life worth living.

You can expect a DBT clinician to be validating and supportive yet challenging when needed. There is an emphasis on both accepting things as they are while acquiring the skills to make things better. The approach teaches skills in five main areas: Mindfulness, Walking the Middle Path, Emotion Regulation, Distress Tolerance and Interpersonal Effectiveness. The therapy requires commitment and active participation during sessions and out in the world. 
The treatment program consists of several components:
 

• weekly Individual Therapy

• weekly DBT skills group for young person 

• weekly DBT skills group for parents of young person 

• phone coaching during crisis to provide support in using skills

therapist participates in peer case consultation weekly
 

The program duration is 24 weeks.

What conditions does Dialectical Behavior Therapy treat?

DBT is considered an effective and appropriate treatment for young people who struggle with problems in several areas of their life such as: unstable and highly intense emotions, difficulty coping with stress, frequent crises and confusion about their identity, conflict with family and peers, self-injurious behaviors, suicidal thoughts and attempts. Other problems might be anxiety, depression, substance misuse and disordered eating.