DBT for Early Adolescents
Skills-based DBT for early adolescents
Watching your child struggle with overwhelming emotions, ineffective behaviors, or experiencing ongoing conflict at home can be difficult.
As Minnesota’s DBT leaders for nearly 25 years, we can help. At Mental Health Systems (MHS), our Early Adolescent DBT program is designed specifically for youth ages 12-14 who need additional support managing emotions, behaviors, and relationships.
Through structured skills training and active caregiver involvement, our highly trained clinicians help both you and your child build practical tools that create meaningful, lasting change.
Program Quick Facts
For: Early adolescents, ages 12-14, with emotional dysregulation, self-harm urges, or crisis patterns
Access: In person or remotely via Virtu-Clinic
First Step: Comprehensive assessment for fit
More Information: Download brochure
Is this program right for your child?
This program may be a good fit if your child:
- Experiences intense emotions or rapid mood changes
- Struggles with emotional outbursts, impulsivity, or ineffective behaviors
- Has difficulty coping with stress, frustration, or disappointment
- Experiences frequent conflict at home or school
- Has trouble identifying emotions or communicating needs effectively
- Could benefit from learning practical coping and problem-solving skills
What treatment looks like
Our Early Adolescent DBT program is structured, supportive, and designed to help your child apply skills in real-life situations.
This program includes:
- DBT skills teaching and application
- Symptom identification and tracking
- Parent and caregiver education
- A coordinated team approach to care
Working with your child’s current therapist
If your early adolescent child already has an individual therapist, in most cases they can continue working with them while in our program.
We aim to complement – not replace – the support your teen already has whenever possible.
Your role as a parent or caregiver
You know your child better than anyone, and your involvement is an important part of treatment.
Our caregiver component is designed to give you practical strategies you can use at home while helping you better understand what your child is experiencing. You’ll learn how to reinforce skills, respond more effectively during difficult moments, and support your child’s progress between sessions.
When parents and caregivers have the right tools, positive changes are often easier to maintain and strengthen over time.
In-person vs Virtu-Clinic
Our Early Adolescent DBT program is available both in-person and through our Virtu-Clinic.
Research and MHS outcome data show similar results between virtual and in-person programming, making the best option the one that best fits your family’s needs and supports consistent participation.
Insurance
MHS is in network with most major insurance companies.
We know insurance can be confusing. Because coverage can vary by plan and service, our team will explain your benefits and options at MHS.
Have questions about your coverage? Reach out. We’ll help you figure it out.
