Teenagers face unique challenges today. Anxiety, depression, isolation, and bullying are, unfortunately, all too common in the adolescent experience. These struggles can profoundly impact a teen’s ability to regulate emotions, maintain healthy relationships, and engage positively with the world around them.
To address these critical issues, we are offering a specialized educational series focused on Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) skills for teens, designed to be both educational and experiential.
What is Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)?
DBT is a type of cognitive-behavioral therapy that was originally developed to treat borderline personality disorder but has since been adapted to help individuals with a range of emotional and behavioral challenges. For teens, DBT is particularly effective in addressing issues like anxiety, depression, self-harm, interpersonal conflicts and emotion dysregulation.
This therapeutic approach focuses on teaching practical skills in four key areas:
Interpersonal Effectiveness: Improving communication and relationship-building skills to better interact with others.
Mindfulness: Developing the ability to stay present in the moment and fully engage with one’s current thoughts and feelings.
Distress Tolerance: Building coping strategies to handle stressful or painful situations without resorting to negative behaviors.
Emotion Regulation: Learning to manage and respond to intense emotions in a healthier way.
Why Is This Group Important for Teens?
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, approximately 31.9% of adolescents aged 13-18 experience an anxiety disorder, and about 14.7% struggle with depression. These conditions often lead to other issues such as self-harm, poor academic performance, and strained relationships with family and peers. Early intervention is crucial, as untreated mental health issues in adolescence can lead to more severe problems in adulthood.
The DBT Skills group at Monmouth Integrative Counseling Services is designed to equip teens with the tools they need to navigate these challenges effectively. Teens will learn essential life skills and have the opportunity to apply these skills in real-life situations, leading to a more balanced and fulfilling life.
Group Details
- Duration: 8-week program with additional Zoom sessions for parents
- Facilitator: Certified DBT Therapist Jenna Roma, MSW, LSW
- Location: In-person sessions at our Brick, NJ location
- Schedule: Wednesdays from 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM
The Benefits of Joining the DBT Skills for Summer Group
- Build Resilience: Teens will learn to manage their emotions and handle stress effectively.
- Improve Relationships: The skills taught in this group will help teens improve their interactions with family members, friends, and others.
- Enhance Self-Awareness: Mindfulness exercises will help teens become more aware of their thoughts and feelings, leading to better decision-making.
- Practical Skills Application: Teens will practice and apply what they learn in a supportive environment, making it easier to transfer these skills to everyday life.
Maintaining mental health is just as important during the summer as it is during the school year. This group provides a structured yet supportive space for teens to continue their personal growth, even when school is out.
If you believe your teen could benefit from this educational series, don’t hesitate to contact us to get started. We’re here to support your family in every step of your journey towards mental wellness.