Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) | Shake Counselling

Equipping Teens with Resilience and Emotional Control

At Shake Counselling, we specialise in providing Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) tailored specifically for adolescents in Geelong and the surrounding areas.

Our experienced team of counsellors is dedicated to helping teens build emotional resilience, improve interpersonal relationships, and develop effective coping strategies to navigate life's challenges.

What is Dialectical Behaviour Therapy?

DBT is an evidence-based treatment approach that combines cognitive-behavioural techniques with mindfulness and acceptance strategies. Originally developed to treat borderline personality disorder, DBT has been proven effective in addressing a wide range of emotional and behavioural challenges, including:

Anxiety disorders
Depression
Self-harm behaviours
Suicidal ideation
Substance abuse
Eating disorders
Anger management issues

The primary goal of DBT is to help individuals build a life worth living by developing skills in four key areas: mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness.

How Shake Counselling Incorporates DBT for Teens

At Shake Counselling, we understand that traditional therapy settings can often feel intimidating or unengaging for teens. That’s why we’ve adapted DBT to fit the unique needs and interests of adolescents, creating an engaging, activity-based approach that helps teens feel more comfortable and motivated to participate in the therapy process.

Our DBT program for teens includes:

1. Individual Therapy Sessions

Our counsellors work one-on-one with teens to address their specific challenges, set personalised goals, and develop a tailored treatment plan. During these sessions, teens learn and practice DBT skills, process emotions, and receive support and guidance from their therapist.

2. Upcoming Skills Training For Groups

In addition to individual therapy, we will be soon be offering skills training groups where teens can learn and practice DBT skills alongside peers facing similar challenges. These groups provide a supportive, collaborative environment that fosters connection, encourages skill-building, and helps teens feel less alone in their struggles.

3. Body Based Learning

To make DBT more engaging and accessible for teens, we incorporate creative, interactive activities into our sessions. From art projects and role-playing exercises to outdoor adventures and physical challenges, we help teens practice DBT skills in a hands-on, memorable way that resonates with their unique learning styles and interests.

4. Family Involvement

We believe that family support plays a crucial role in a teen’s success with DBT. That’s why we offer resources, guidance, and opportunities for family sessions to help parents and caregivers understand DBT principles, support their teen’s progress, and foster a validating, emotionally supportive home environment.

The Benefits of DBT for Teens

By participating in our DBT program, teens can experience numerous benefits, including:

Improved emotional regulation skills
Increased distress tolerance
Enhanced interpersonal effectiveness
Greater self-awareness and mindfulness
Reduced impulsivity and risk-taking behaviors
Stronger, more positive relationships with family and peers
Increased resilience and ability to cope with stress
Greater sense of empowerment and control over their lives

Start Your Journey with DBT at Shake Counselling

If a teen or someone you may know is struggling with intense emotions, impulsive behaviours, or interpersonal challenges, DBT at Shake Counselling may be the key to helping them build the skills and resilience they need to thrive.

Our compassionate, experienced team is here to support your teen every step of the way, providing the personalised, engaging care they need to navigate the challenges of adolescence and emerge stronger, more confident, and better equipped to handle life’s ups and downs.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how our DBT program can help your teen build a life worth living.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does DBT treatment typically last?

The length of DBT treatment varies depending on each teen’s unique needs and progress. However, most teens participate in our program for several months to a year to fully develop and integrate DBT skills into their daily lives.

2. Is DBT covered by insurance?

Many insurance plans cover DBT as a form of mental health treatment. Our team can work with you to verify your insurance coverage and explore payment options to ensure your teen receives the care they need.

3. Can DBT help with self-harm or suicidal thoughts?

Yes, DBT was originally developed to treat individuals with borderline personality disorder, which often involves self-harm and suicidal behaviours. Our DBT program can help teens develop skills to manage intense emotions, cope with distress, and find healthier alternatives to self-destructive behaviours.

4. How does DBT differ from traditional cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)?

While DBT incorporates many cognitive-behavioural techniques, it also emphasises validation, mindfulness, and acceptance strategies. DBT is particularly effective for individuals with intense emotions and impulsive behaviours, as it helps them develop skills to manage and regulate their emotions in the moment.

5. Can parents or caregivers be involved in the DBT process?

Absolutely! At Shake Counselling, we encourage family involvement and offer resources, guidance, and opportunities for family sessions to support your teen’s progress and foster a positive, emotionally validating home environment.