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Applying DBT with Teens and Their Families

By Dr Jill Rathus and Dr Alec Miller

Family sessions can be one of the most challenging parts of adolescent DBT. This eBook introduces key ideas and practical strategies for engaging parents and teens together in treatment, helping you understand how DBT principles can guide calmer, more constructive conversations.

In this e-book, by Dr Jill Rathus, and Dr Alec Miller, you’ll explore how to:

  • Structure and guide productive DBT-informed family sessions

  • Apply validation and mindfulness to ease emotional intensity

  • Coach parents and teens through real-time skills practice

  • Strengthen collaboration and connection within families

These ideas are explored in more detail in our adolescent-focused DBT training, DBT Skills for Adolescents and Families and DBT Foundational for Adolescents and Families, designed to help clinicians work effectively with both young people and their families.

Applying DBT with Teens and Their Families