How Dialectical Behavior Therapy Works for Arizona Teens
FACT CHECKED
The Nexus Teen Academy editorial and clinical team is dedicated to providing informative and accurate content to help families who are struggling with adolescent behavioral health problems. The editorial team works directly with the clinical team to ensure information is accurate and up-to-date.
To do this, our team uses the following editorial guidelines:
We generally only cite government and peer-reviewed studies
Scientific claims and data are backed by qualified sources
Content is updated to ensure we are citing the most up-to-date data and information
Clinically reviewed by Executive Director Hannah Carr-Unquera, LPC
Executive Director Hannah Carr-Unquera, LPC
Hannah graduated from Arizona State University with her Bachelor’s in Psychology and Master’s in Counseling and is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona. She began her work as a therapist 12 years ago in South Phoenix with an intensive outpatient program for teens and their families. She joined Nexus in the residential program as the clinical director, eventually being promoted to the executive director, creating and building the clinical program structure and a strong culture focused on redirecting the trajectory of young lives.
The Nexus Teen Academy Editorial Staff is composed of writers, editors, and clinical reviewers with many years of experience writing about mental health and behavioral health treatment. Our team utilizes peer-reviewed, clinical studies from sources like SAMHSA to ensure we provide the most accurate and current information.
In today’s complex world, adolescence often brings a whirlwind of emotions. Ensuring teenagers’ emotional and mental health well-being is crucial, and mental health experts have been at the forefront of solving adolescent mental health issues. Among the many therapeutic approaches available for adolescent mental health, teen dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) stands out as an effective tool tailored to help with many problems including bipolar, PTSD, and more. At Nexus Teen Academy we offer many evidence-based treatment approaches, including teen DBT to help clients resolve their mental health conditions and address other underlying concerns. Whether you’re a concerned parent, guardian, caregiver, or simply curious about teen therapy, this guide offers valuable insights into DBT. Read on and call our team today to learn more about how DBT for teens can improve your child’s situation.
Understanding the Basics of Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Teens
Before delving into the details of how Teen DBT works, it is important to understand what DBT is.
What is Teen DBT for Adolescents?
Teen DBT is a type of psychotherapy (talk therapy) specifically designed for adolescents who experience intense emotions. It helps them understand how their thoughts and feelings affect their behaviors. It is especially effective among teenagers since their brains are not yet fully developed to recognize the consequences of their actions.
Dr. Marsha M. Linehan initially developed DBT in the late 1970s for adults with borderline personality disorder. Over the years, the application of DBT has effectively addressed a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues. Evidence suggests that it has effectively addressed issues across populations, including substance use disorders, suicide attempts, PTSD, self-harm, symptoms of depression, anxiety, and eating disorders. As a result, it has been adopted as a suitable treatment approach for adolescents because of their unique needs.
Core Components of DBT for Adolescents
To better understand teen dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), let’s break down its essential components that lay the groundwork for DBT
Emotion Regulation Skills Training
DBT teaches teens to recognize, understand, and manage their feelings. It includes techniques for identifying triggers and adopting healthier coping methods, helping them navigate their emotions more effectively.
Mindfulness Techniques
DBT introduces mindfulness practices to promote self-awareness and emotional control. It encourages teens to observe their thoughts and feelings without judgment, helping them stay calm during emotional struggles.
Interpersonal Effectiveness
DBT equips teens with communication and conflict-resolution skills, this can be especially helpful for teens who don’t want to talk. These tools enable them to establish and maintain healthy relationships while protecting their emotional well-being.
Distress Tolerance Strategies
Life can be tough, and DBT teaches teens strategies to handle emotional distress without resorting to harmful behaviors.
Tailoring DBT for Teenagers
Adolescence is a complex phase of life, and DBT acknowledges this by customizing its approach to cater to the unique needs of teenagers.
Adaptations and Modifications for Adolescents
Several modifications and key adaptations have been made to make it more suitable for adolescents, and they include:
Use of simple language– Therapists often simplify language to ensure that concepts are more easily understood, helping teens engage more actively in therapy sessions.
Shorter sessions-Teens usually have shorter attention spans compared to adults. DBT sessions for teens are normally shorter and more frequent.
Group activities- Group therapy activities are more engaging for teenagers. The activities include interactive games, art, or role-playing exercises.
Family involvement-Most teenagers are still under the care of their parents. It is important to involve parents in the treatment plan to create a supportive environment for recovery.
Incorporation of technology–Teenagers are often tech-savvy. Therapists may incorporate technology into DBT sessions by using apps to track their progress and give them assignments.
Family involvement-Most teenagers are still under the care of their parents. It is important to involve parents in the treatment plan to create a supportive environment for recovery. At Nexus Teen Academy, we offer family involvement at every step of the treatment process. Let’s take a closer look.
The Role of Family Involvement
Family involvement in DBT teenagers is crucial because it acknowledges that a teenager’s mental well-being is closely connected to family dynamics and relationships. The key aspects of family involvement are the following:
Providing Support– Family involvement establishes a support network for the teenager by fostering an environment where the teen and their family work together to address challenges.
Identifying Triggers– Family members can offer valuable insights into teenagers’ emotions and behaviors. Therapists can then tailor the DBT approach to address specific challenges more effectively.
Creating a safe environment- Family involvement ensures the home environment supports the teenager’s well-being by setting boundaries that help the teen stick to the therapy program.
Fostering empathy– Parents and caregivers better understand the teenager’s struggles, creating a more compassionate and supportive family environment.
Moreover, at Nexus Teen Academy, to ensure that your family stays a part of the healing process we offer family therapy, weekly family visits, and daily family phone calls.
Step-by-Step Process of DBT
The therapeutic journey in teen DBT is a structured process aimed at helping teenagers learn crucial emotional regulation skills. The process typically comprises the following steps:
Step 1 - Assessment and Orientation
This is the initiating process whereby your teen’s therapist will start the initial session by analyzing and understanding the challenges and goals the teen wishes to achieve. At this stage, the teen is also oriented into the DBT program by explaining the process, its goals, and what to expect from the program.
Step 2 - Individual Therapy
Weekly Sessions –Teens will have one-on-one sessions with the therapist to review the issues they might face.
Focus –The therapists help teens handle their issues and teach them how to utilize DBT skills for specific problems.
Behavior Targeting – The therapist and the teen will work together to prioritize dealing with problematic behaviors like suicidal thoughts or self-harm behaviors.
Step 3 - Skills Training Group
The process involves learning skills in a group setting. This is achieved through group sessions and meetings where the teens learn together.
The training focuses on four important areas, including:
Mindfulness – Being aware of the present moment
Distress tolerance – Developing coping strategies in crises
Emotional regulation – Managing intense emotions
Interpersonal effectiveness – Improving relationships and communication
Step 4 - Support Through Phone Coaching
Teens can contact their therapist between sessions for immediate support. They can get assistance in real-life situations and during crises. At Nexus’s teen residential treatment center in Arizona, clients will be able to talk with the clinical team in person at nearly all hours of the day.
Step 5 - Therapist Team Support
Therapists usually attend regular consultation meetings to stay motivated, discuss cases, and ensure adherence to DBT principles.
Step 6 - Progress Tracking
There are regular check-ins to track progress and adjust the treatment program if need be. Teens also get the opportunity to practice skills learned during therapy.
Step 7 - Completion and Aftercare
After achieving the goals set, there’s a review and celebration of the progress made. Some programs also offer follow-up sessions or check-ins post-treatment to ensure proper aftercare.
Benefits of Teen Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Teen dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) offers several advantages for teens facing emotional and behavioral challenges. The advantages include improved emotional regulation, reduced self-harm and suicide risk, enhanced interpersonal skills, and an improved quality of life. Let’s explore these aspects:
Improved Emotional Regulation
Teenagers benefit from improved emotional regulation in the following ways:
Enhanced emotional intelligence – DBT helps teenagers better grasp their emotions, including their triggers and how to manage them effectively. Enhanced emotional intelligence enables teens to navigate emotional struggles more wisely.
Increased self-awareness – Through DBT, adolescents cultivate self-awareness by examining their thoughts and emotions without judgment. This self-reflection helps them recognize and replace harmful thought patterns with healthier alternatives, granting greater control over emotional responses.
Improved coping strategies – DBT equips teens with various coping mechanisms to handle distressing emotions. Such tools include relaxation techniques and mindfulness practices. All these skills empower them to manage life’s challenges in healthier ways.
Reduced Self-Harm and Suicide Risk
One of the most crucial benefits of DBT is its substantially reduced risk of self-harm and suicide among teens. DBT provides teens with healthier means of addressing intense emotional distress, potentially saving lives.
Increased Interpersonal Skills
DBT strongly emphasizes enhancing interpersonal skills, a vital asset during the complex stage of adolescence. It does so through the following skills:
Effective Communication– Teens learn to express their needs effectively.
Conflict Resolution– They acquire strategies for resolving conflicts constructively.
Boundary Setting– Adolescents develop the ability to establish healthy boundaries in their relationships.
Such skills not only enhance their relationships but also improve their emotional well-being.
Enhanced Quality of Life
Ultimately, the combined benefits of improved emotional regulation, reduced self-harm risk, and good interpersonal skills lead to an improved quality of life for teens during DBT. The changes positively affect their academic performance, well-being, and prospects.
Challenges and Limitations of Teen Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Although teen DBT is a highly effective therapeutic approach, it is essential to recognize and address its challenges and limitations.
Potential Obstacles and Drawbacks
The following are some obstacles facing an effective DBT program:
Time and commitment– Teenagers and their families may find it challenging to attend regular therapy sessions and engage in homework assignments consistently. This can lead to slower progress and cause frustration.
Resistance to change– Some teenagers may resist the idea of change, especially if they have negative coping mechanisms over time.
Resource constraints– Access to qualified DBT therapists and programs may be limited in certain areas. This can make it difficult for some teenagers to receive the desperately needed therapy.
Family dynamics– Family conflicts and dynamics may hinder progress, necessitating additional family therapy.
Common Misconceptions
DBT is only for severe cases– A common misconception is that DBT is exclusively for individuals with severe mental health issues. In reality, DBT can benefit many teens facing emotional and behavioral challenges, not just those with extreme conditions.
It’s a quick fix– Another misconception is that DBT provides quick solutions. DBT is a long-term process that requires consistent effort and practice to see lasting results.
Medication replaces DBT– Some people believe that medication alone can replace DBT. Medication is typically more effective when combined with therapeutic interventions like DBT.
Strategies to Overcome Challenges
Building strong therapeutic bonds– Therapists should prioritize building a strong bond with the teens. Trust can help overcome resistance and improve engagement.
Being flexible with the treatment- Therapists can adapt techniques to suit each teen’s individual needs and preferences.
Involving the families through family therapy– Addressing family dynamics and conflicts through education and family therapy can help create a more supportive and conducive environment for the adolescent’s progress.
Setting realistic expectations- Educating teens and their families about the realistic timeframe and expectations of DBT can help manage frustrations and maintain motivation throughout the treatment process.
Integration with Other Therapeutic Approaches
DBT can also be integrated with other therapeutic methods to create a more comprehensive and effective treatment plan.
How DBT Can Complement Other Therapies
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)– DBT and CBT share similarities in addressing thought patterns and behaviors. Integrating DBT with teen CBT can provide a holistic approach to addressing emotional regulation. For example, if a teenager receives CBT for anxiety, DBT can complement it by teaching emotion regulation skills to manage anxiety triggers effectively.
Family Therapy- Family therapy can address family dynamics, communication, and support systems. DBT often involves family members in the therapeutic process. Integrating DBT with family therapy can enhance the effectiveness of both approaches.
Mindfulness– Mindfulness practices are often incorporated into DBT to promote emotional regulation and stress reduction.
Collaborative Approaches to Teen Mental Health
One of the collaborative approaches that has been gaining traction in our healthcare services is the Collaborative Care Model. This collaborative approach involves a team-based effort to address the complex needs of people facing mental health challenges, including teens. So, how does it work?
At the center of this model lies a Behavioral Healthcare Manager, a mental health professional who practices in the clinic with the primary healthcare providers. They work directly with the consulting psychiatrist who provides expertise to keep treatment on track. They can also provide or receive recommendations from the primary care provider about the patient’s welfare. It is an organized approach that ensures the patient gets the most effective care.
Treatment includes therapies like DBT provided by psychiatrists and other mental health professionals and also medication prescribed by primary healthcare providers. The model makes mental health accessible to more people at their primary healthcare providers rather than looking for specialists who may not be accessible in many areas. The Collaborative Care Model has been adopted nationwide and is now re-reimbursable through insurance providers.
DBT Therapy for Teens at Nexus Teen Academy
We have explored how teen DBT works and why it is effective among teenagers. It empowers them to understand their emotions, challenge negative thoughts, and develop effective coping methods. Its significance cannot be understated, and seeking professional guidance is crucial for those facing emotional challenges or supporting someone who is.
Nexus Teen Academy’s mental health treatment center for teens has a team of dedicated and well-trained therapists who can tailor DBT to any concerned teenager. If you need help for your son or daughter, give our team a call and walk us through your situation. We can provide expert insight and advice on how you can improve your teen’s challenges.
DBT is different from CBT because it emphasizes accepting and validating emotions. It offers a way to manage intense emotions, helping improve relationships and develop skills. In contrast, CBT mainly focuses on identifying and challenging negative thoughts and behaviors.
Insurance coverage for DBT depends on your insurance provider. Check with your insurer if they cover DBT and which services are included or verify your insurance benefits on our site.
Common signs that your teen may benefit from DBT include difficulty regulating emotions, engaging in self-harming behaviors, struggling with relationships, and having a history of suicidal thoughts or attempts.
DBT is versatile and can help a wide range of adolescents with emotional and behavioral challenges. However, its effectiveness depends on individual needs and willingness to engage in therapy. A qualified therapist can assess the suitability of DBT for your teen.
Yes, family involvement is usually encouraged in Teen DBT. Parents can join family therapy sessions, learn skills to support their teenagers and improve communication. This enhances the therapy’s effectiveness.
Teen DBT is generally safe and effective. But, like any therapy, challenges or emotional issues may accompany it. Consult with your teen’s therapist to know the possible side effects.
The success rate of teen DBT in managing self-harm behaviors can vary depending on several factors, including the seriousness of self-harm, the commitment of the teen and family to therapy, and the therapist’s expertise. Research has shown that DBT can effectively reduce self-harm behaviors and suicidal ideation, but individual results may vary.
Executive Director Hannah Carr-Unquera, LPC and Nexus Teen Academy
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How Dialectical Behavior Therapy Works for Arizona Teens
FACT CHECKED
The Nexus Teen Academy editorial and clinical team is dedicated to providing informative and accurate content to help families who are struggling with adolescent behavioral health problems. The editorial team works directly with the clinical team to ensure information is accurate and up-to-date.
To do this, our team uses the following editorial guidelines:
Clinically reviewed by Executive Director Hannah Carr-Unquera, LPC
Executive Director Hannah Carr-Unquera, LPC
Hannah graduated from Arizona State University with her Bachelor’s in Psychology and Master’s in Counseling and is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona. She began her work as a therapist 12 years ago in South Phoenix with an intensive outpatient program for teens and their families. She joined Nexus in the residential program as the clinical director, eventually being promoted to the executive director, creating and building the clinical program structure and a strong culture focused on redirecting the trajectory of young lives.
Published By Nexus Teen Academy
Nexus Teen Academy
The Nexus Teen Academy Editorial Staff is composed of writers, editors, and clinical reviewers with many years of experience writing about mental health and behavioral health treatment. Our team utilizes peer-reviewed, clinical studies from sources like SAMHSA to ensure we provide the most accurate and current information.
Published On March 6, 2024
Table of Contents
In today’s complex world, adolescence often brings a whirlwind of emotions. Ensuring teenagers’ emotional and mental health well-being is crucial, and mental health experts have been at the forefront of solving adolescent mental health issues. Among the many therapeutic approaches available for adolescent mental health, teen dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) stands out as an effective tool tailored to help with many problems including bipolar, PTSD, and more. At Nexus Teen Academy we offer many evidence-based treatment approaches, including teen DBT to help clients resolve their mental health conditions and address other underlying concerns. Whether you’re a concerned parent, guardian, caregiver, or simply curious about teen therapy, this guide offers valuable insights into DBT. Read on and call our team today to learn more about how DBT for teens can improve your child’s situation.
Understanding the Basics of Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Teens
Before delving into the details of how Teen DBT works, it is important to understand what DBT is.
What is Teen DBT for Adolescents?
Teen DBT is a type of psychotherapy (talk therapy) specifically designed for adolescents who experience intense emotions. It helps them understand how their thoughts and feelings affect their behaviors. It is especially effective among teenagers since their brains are not yet fully developed to recognize the consequences of their actions.
Dr. Marsha M. Linehan initially developed DBT in the late 1970s for adults with borderline personality disorder. Over the years, the application of DBT has effectively addressed a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues. Evidence suggests that it has effectively addressed issues across populations, including substance use disorders, suicide attempts, PTSD, self-harm, symptoms of depression, anxiety, and eating disorders. As a result, it has been adopted as a suitable treatment approach for adolescents because of their unique needs.
Core Components of DBT for Adolescents
To better understand teen dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), let’s break down its essential components that lay the groundwork for DBT
Emotion Regulation Skills Training
DBT teaches teens to recognize, understand, and manage their feelings. It includes techniques for identifying triggers and adopting healthier coping methods, helping them navigate their emotions more effectively.
Mindfulness Techniques
DBT introduces mindfulness practices to promote self-awareness and emotional control. It encourages teens to observe their thoughts and feelings without judgment, helping them stay calm during emotional struggles.
Interpersonal Effectiveness
DBT equips teens with communication and conflict-resolution skills, this can be especially helpful for teens who don’t want to talk. These tools enable them to establish and maintain healthy relationships while protecting their emotional well-being.
Distress Tolerance Strategies
Life can be tough, and DBT teaches teens strategies to handle emotional distress without resorting to harmful behaviors.
Tailoring DBT for Teenagers
Adolescence is a complex phase of life, and DBT acknowledges this by customizing its approach to cater to the unique needs of teenagers.
Adaptations and Modifications for Adolescents
Several modifications and key adaptations have been made to make it more suitable for adolescents, and they include:
The Role of Family Involvement
Family involvement in DBT teenagers is crucial because it acknowledges that a teenager’s mental well-being is closely connected to family dynamics and relationships. The key aspects of family involvement are the following:
Moreover, at Nexus Teen Academy, to ensure that your family stays a part of the healing process we offer family therapy, weekly family visits, and daily family phone calls.
Step-by-Step Process of DBT
The therapeutic journey in teen DBT is a structured process aimed at helping teenagers learn crucial emotional regulation skills. The process typically comprises the following steps:
Step 1 - Assessment and Orientation
This is the initiating process whereby your teen’s therapist will start the initial session by analyzing and understanding the challenges and goals the teen wishes to achieve. At this stage, the teen is also oriented into the DBT program by explaining the process, its goals, and what to expect from the program.
Step 2 - Individual Therapy
Weekly Sessions – Teens will have one-on-one sessions with the therapist to review the issues they might face.
Focus – The therapists help teens handle their issues and teach them how to utilize DBT skills for specific problems.
Behavior Targeting – The therapist and the teen will work together to prioritize dealing with problematic behaviors like suicidal thoughts or self-harm behaviors.
Step 3 - Skills Training Group
The process involves learning skills in a group setting. This is achieved through group sessions and meetings where the teens learn together.
The training focuses on four important areas, including:
Step 4 - Support Through Phone Coaching
Teens can contact their therapist between sessions for immediate support. They can get assistance in real-life situations and during crises. At Nexus’s teen residential treatment center in Arizona, clients will be able to talk with the clinical team in person at nearly all hours of the day.
Step 5 - Therapist Team Support
Therapists usually attend regular consultation meetings to stay motivated, discuss cases, and ensure adherence to DBT principles.
Step 6 - Progress Tracking
There are regular check-ins to track progress and adjust the treatment program if need be. Teens also get the opportunity to practice skills learned during therapy.
Step 7 - Completion and Aftercare
After achieving the goals set, there’s a review and celebration of the progress made. Some programs also offer follow-up sessions or check-ins post-treatment to ensure proper aftercare.
Benefits of Teen Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Teen dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) offers several advantages for teens facing emotional and behavioral challenges. The advantages include improved emotional regulation, reduced self-harm and suicide risk, enhanced interpersonal skills, and an improved quality of life. Let’s explore these aspects:
Improved Emotional Regulation
Teenagers benefit from improved emotional regulation in the following ways:
Reduced Self-Harm and Suicide Risk
One of the most crucial benefits of DBT is its substantially reduced risk of self-harm and suicide among teens. DBT provides teens with healthier means of addressing intense emotional distress, potentially saving lives.
Increased Interpersonal Skills
DBT strongly emphasizes enhancing interpersonal skills, a vital asset during the complex stage of adolescence. It does so through the following skills:
Such skills not only enhance their relationships but also improve their emotional well-being.
Enhanced Quality of Life
Ultimately, the combined benefits of improved emotional regulation, reduced self-harm risk, and good interpersonal skills lead to an improved quality of life for teens during DBT. The changes positively affect their academic performance, well-being, and prospects.
Challenges and Limitations of Teen Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Although teen DBT is a highly effective therapeutic approach, it is essential to recognize and address its challenges and limitations.
Potential Obstacles and Drawbacks
The following are some obstacles facing an effective DBT program:
Common Misconceptions
Strategies to Overcome Challenges
Integration with Other Therapeutic Approaches
DBT can also be integrated with other therapeutic methods to create a more comprehensive and effective treatment plan.
How DBT Can Complement Other Therapies
Collaborative Approaches to Teen Mental Health
One of the collaborative approaches that has been gaining traction in our healthcare services is the Collaborative Care Model. This collaborative approach involves a team-based effort to address the complex needs of people facing mental health challenges, including teens. So, how does it work?
At the center of this model lies a Behavioral Healthcare Manager, a mental health professional who practices in the clinic with the primary healthcare providers. They work directly with the consulting psychiatrist who provides expertise to keep treatment on track. They can also provide or receive recommendations from the primary care provider about the patient’s welfare. It is an organized approach that ensures the patient gets the most effective care.
Treatment includes therapies like DBT provided by psychiatrists and other mental health professionals and also medication prescribed by primary healthcare providers. The model makes mental health accessible to more people at their primary healthcare providers rather than looking for specialists who may not be accessible in many areas. The Collaborative Care Model has been adopted nationwide and is now re-reimbursable through insurance providers.
DBT Therapy for Teens at Nexus Teen Academy
We have explored how teen DBT works and why it is effective among teenagers. It empowers them to understand their emotions, challenge negative thoughts, and develop effective coping methods. Its significance cannot be understated, and seeking professional guidance is crucial for those facing emotional challenges or supporting someone who is.
Nexus Teen Academy’s mental health treatment center for teens has a team of dedicated and well-trained therapists who can tailor DBT to any concerned teenager. If you need help for your son or daughter, give our team a call and walk us through your situation. We can provide expert insight and advice on how you can improve your teen’s challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
DBT is different from CBT because it emphasizes accepting and validating emotions. It offers a way to manage intense emotions, helping improve relationships and develop skills. In contrast, CBT mainly focuses on identifying and challenging negative thoughts and behaviors.
Insurance coverage for DBT depends on your insurance provider. Check with your insurer if they cover DBT and which services are included or verify your insurance benefits on our site.
Common signs that your teen may benefit from DBT include difficulty regulating emotions, engaging in self-harming behaviors, struggling with relationships, and having a history of suicidal thoughts or attempts.
DBT is versatile and can help a wide range of adolescents with emotional and behavioral challenges. However, its effectiveness depends on individual needs and willingness to engage in therapy. A qualified therapist can assess the suitability of DBT for your teen.
The duration varies based on individual needs and progress. On average, DBT programs can take several months to a year.
Yes, family involvement is usually encouraged in Teen DBT. Parents can join family therapy sessions, learn skills to support their teenagers and improve communication. This enhances the therapy’s effectiveness.
Teen DBT is generally safe and effective. But, like any therapy, challenges or emotional issues may accompany it. Consult with your teen’s therapist to know the possible side effects.
The success rate of teen DBT in managing self-harm behaviors can vary depending on several factors, including the seriousness of self-harm, the commitment of the teen and family to therapy, and the therapist’s expertise. Research has shown that DBT can effectively reduce self-harm behaviors and suicidal ideation, but individual results may vary.