DBT

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) is a type of cognitive behavioral therapy for clients with history of depression, anxiety and self-harm. DBT is meant to strengthen skills of mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional regulation and interpersonal effectiveness skills.

DBT was developed by Dr. Marsha Linehan and it is derived from a philosophical process called dialectics. Dialectics are based on the concept that everything is composed of opposites and change occurs when one opposing force is stronger than the other.

Children’s Friend offers all modalities of DBT for adolescents and their parents: individual DBT, skills training and phone coaching. Research shows that when DBT is offered according to those guidelines it is very effective in creating and maintaining a life worth living.

Please contact our DBT Team Leader, Nevila Weagle, LMHC with questions or for a referral.

The Children's Friend, Dialectical Behavior Therapy Program, is generously supported by the United Way of Central Massachusetts. This important program helps adolescents who are engaging in dangerous and self-destructive behaviors learn coping mechanisms towards triggers that initiate the harmful behaviors.  Thank you to United Way of Central Massachusetts for the continued support of this program and sharing the mutual goal of providing supports and services to improve the overall health and welfare of children and families.