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How Long Does Dialectical Behavior Therapy Last?

a young person tracks their progress in dbt with a therapist

Many behavioral therapy programs are helpful in treating depression, substance abuse, and other forms of mental health disorders. Dialectical behavior therapy or DBT is an effective treatment program designed to address self-harming or suicidal thoughts due to personality issues or past trauma. The length of DBT depends on each person’s unique symptoms and if there are any co-occurring disorders. A Washington dialectical behavior therapy program is essential for men and women looking to make a real change in their lives.

At Imagine Seattle, we provide compassionate and discreet support for teen boys and girls aged 12-17. Our certified behavioral therapists have years of experience working with teens from all walks of life and all types of mental health disorders. Each patient receives a tailored treatment plan based on their unique symptoms to address their needs. To learn more about our dialectical behavior therapy and other beneficial programs, call 888.346.0473 today or fill out our online form to speak with one of our friendly and knowledgeable staff.

What Is Dialectical Behavior Therapy?

Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is a form of cognitive-behavioral therapy that was originally developed to support patients with borderline personality disorders. Behavioral therapists work with patients to help them accept their thoughts and emotions for what they are and that it is OK to have these feelings. They teach them new coping skills to address these feelings and improve their communication techniques to express themselves in a healthy manner.

Dialectical behavior therapy can treat a number of mental health disorders, such as:

  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • Personality and interpersonal disorders
  • Eating disorders
  • Substance abuse disorder
  • Major depressive disorder

At Imagine Seattle, we give teens the skills they need to understand and process their feelings instead of burying them and negatively impacting their development. We discuss all components of their treatment, including the dialectical behavior therapy length and how it will benefit their development.

What Is the Length of DBT?

One of the main concerns people have before beginning therapy is how long DBT is. The length of DBT will depend on each person’s unique symptoms and reasons for their mental health issues. On average, a dialectical behavior therapy length is around six months. Here is a sample of a typical DBT program:

  • Weekly individual therapy sessions; 1 hour – Therapists work one-on-one with patients to discover the root cause of their issues and work to understand these thoughts and feelings. Patients learn to accept and confront any negative thoughts and begin replacing them with more healthy thoughts and behaviors.
  • Weekly group skills training session; 1.5-2.5 hours – During group therapy, patients work with their peers to practice coping skills to build their confidence in their new skills. They also work on improving communication and relationship skills under close supervision by therapists. They will make a note of any concerning behavior and address them during private therapy.
  • Therapist consultation team meeting; 1-2 hours – Each week, your therapists will meet with other professionals to discuss your progress and make any changes to the treatment program depending on how well you are progressing.

How long is DBT? Most programs can last from six months to a year, depending on each person’s severity of symptoms.

Reach Out to Us at Imagine Seattle: Your Top Resource for Washington Dialectical Behavior Therapy

At Imagine Seattle, we help young teens aged 12-17 who are struggling with a past or recent trauma, depression, or social anxiety through our compassionate outpatient treatment facility. Teens will participate in dialectical behavior therapy and other holistic therapies to give them the tools they need to thrive.

We offer a full range of treatment programs and services, including:

  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
  • Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
  • Partial hospitalization program
  • Intensive outpatient program
  • Trauma-informed care
  • Education advocacy
  • Medication management

Call 888.346.0473 today or fill out our online form if you are worried that your teen son or daughter is struggling with depression, anxiety, or other mental health disorders.

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