DBT can help you, your child, or loved one manage intense emotions and behaviors.
Learn how to find a qualified therapist who delivers results and supports your family.

What Full-Model DBT Includes

Full-model DBT is more than just therapy sessions. It combines:

  • Individual Therapy: Helps you or your child apply DBT skills to real-life challenges, stay motivated, and manage behaviors that interfere with progress.
  • Skills Training Group: Teaches mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, interpersonal effectiveness, and walking the middle path.
  • Phone Coaching: Provides brief support between sessions to practice skills in real-life situations.
  • Consultation Team: Therapists meet weekly with peers to maintain treatment quality and prevent burnout.

Why Therapist Training Matters

A well-trained DBT provider completes intensive workshops, known as foundational training, and ongoing consultation. Proper training ensures you or your child get the full range of tools and support the program is designed to deliver.

Risks of Incomplete DBT

Therapists without full training may:

  • Offer only partial skills or skip phone coaching
  • Leave families frustrated or stuck without clear guidance
  • Misinterpret challenges, which slows down progress

Incomplete treatment can make DBT seem like it doesn’t work, even though research shows full-model DBT works very effectively when delivered correctly.

Questions to Ask Prospective Providers

Ask therapists:

  • “Do you offer all DBT components? Do you provide individual therapy, skills group, and phone coaching? Do you participate in a consultation team?”
  • “What DBT training have you completed?”
  • “How long have you practiced DBT?”
  • “Are you part of a consultation team?”
  • “How is phone coaching integrated into your practice?”

Supporting a Child at Home and in Therapy

For children and adolescents, families can play a key role in DBT success. Parents can support practice of skills at home, reinforce routines, and help track progress. Working together with therapists speeds results and creates a consistent, supportive environment for the child.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I know if a DBT therapist is the right fit for me or my child?
 Look for a provider who offers full-model DBT (individual therapy, skills groups, phone coaching, and participation in a consultation team). Making sure they have training and experience ensures they can deliver comprehensive care.

2. How long does it take to see results from DBT?
 DBT works gradually. Families may notice some improvements in weeks with consistent participation, but longer-term support is typically needed for lasting change.

3. What if my child resists therapy or skills practice?
 Resistance is common, not a sign that DBT won’t work. Predictable routines, small step-by-step guidance, and supportive coaching help children engage successfully.

4. Is DBT covered by insurance or affordable?
 Coverage varies by provider and plan. Check with your insurer and ask prospective therapists about sliding scale options to make care more accessible.

6. Do I need to involve the school or other professionals?
 Collaborating with teachers, counselors, or other clinicians can reinforce DBT skills, provide accommodations, and support progress at home and school.

7. Is medication required for DBT to be effective?
 Not always. DBT alone can help improve emotional regulation and coping skills, though some people may benefit from medication alongside therapy.

Next Step

Ready to find a qualified DBT provider who fits your family’s needs? Complete our inquiry form below to start personalized support.