DBT-A
Also written as: DBT-A — Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Adolescents
Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Adolescents, an adapted version of DBT specifically designed for teenagers with emotion regulation difficulties.
Full Definition
Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Adolescents (DBT-A) is an adaptation of the evidence-based DBT treatment originally developed for adults with borderline personality disorder. DBT-A addresses the unique developmental needs of teenagers while teaching the four core skill modules: mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. The treatment includes individual therapy, skills groups, phone coaching, and therapist consultation teams. DBT-A has been shown effective for adolescents with self-harm behaviors, suicidal ideation, and severe emotional dysregulation.
Usage
Usage note: Specifically adapted for adolescents; differs from standard adult DBT in several key components.
In Context
- "The adolescent will participate in DBT-A skills group to learn emotion regulation and distress tolerance techniques." — Treatment plan
- "DBT-A therapists require specialized training in both DBT principles and adolescent development." — Training requirements document