Parenting Teens

Building Empathy and Understanding with Your Teen Using the THINK Skill

Building Empathy and Understanding with Your Teen Using the THINK Skill

When it comes to helping teens build healthy relationships, the THINK skill is one of the most powerful tools we can offer. This skill is all about perspective-taking—learning how to step outside of our own experience and try to see things from someone else’s point of view. Not only can this improve our teens' relationships, but it can also deepen their empathy, understanding, and overall emotional resilience.

Using DBT Skills to Nurture Authenticity and Respect in Relationships

Using DBT Skills to Nurture Authenticity and Respect in Relationships

In any relationship, balance is key. We want our teens to experience both the joy of connecting with others and the confidence of staying true to themselves. Relationships are a two-way street, and a healthy connection requires both giving and receiving in a way that feels good to everyone involved.

How We Help Teens Build Healthy Relationships: A Guide to DBT Interpersonal Effectiveness

How We Help Teens Build Healthy Relationships: A Guide to DBT Interpersonal Effectiveness

Teens need healthy relationships to thrive emotionally and socially. But many things can get in the way—unhelpful beliefs, lack of communication skills, or even trouble setting boundaries. In our Interpersonal Effectiveness module, we give teens the tools to overcome these challenges and form positive, lasting connections.

Teaching Your Teen DBT “What” Skills for Emotional Regulation

Teaching Your Teen DBT “What” Skills for Emotional Regulation

Emotion regulation is a crucial life skill, and as a parent, you play a vital role in helping your teen develop it. One effective way to teach this skill is through DBT’s “What” skills—Observe, Describe, and Participate. These skills teach teens how to engage with their emotions and experiences mindfully, helping them stay grounded and make thoughtful choices even in difficult moments.

How to Help Your Teen Use DBT Mindfulness of Emotions

How to Help Your Teen Use DBT Mindfulness of Emotions

As a parent, watching your teen struggle with intense emotions can be tough. Our instinct is to step in, try to fix things, or provide a solution. However, teaching teens to manage their emotions on their own can empower them and provide them with long-term coping skills. One of the most effective tools for this is DBT’s (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) Mindfulness of Emotions.

Balancing Self-Care and Parenting: The Simple Skill That Changes Everything

Balancing Self-Care and Parenting: The Simple Skill That Changes Everything

Parenting a teenager, especially one in DBT, often feels like a full-time job. You're constantly tending to their needs, emotions, and challenges. But if you're not careful, you can easily burn yourself out, leaving little energy for both your teen and yourself. In these moments, it's crucial to remember: self-care isn't selfish. It's essential.

How to Help Your Teen Master Emotional Control and Face Challenges Like a Pro

How to Help Your Teen Master Emotional Control and Face Challenges Like a Pro

As a parent, you want your teen to feel confident and capable of handling life’s emotional ups and downs. But sometimes, teens struggle with overwhelming emotions or stressful situations that leave them feeling stuck. Two powerful tools can help your teen gain the emotional control they need to thrive: Building Mastery and Coping Ahead. These simple, effective strategies can support your teen in feeling more prepared, resilient, and ready to take on life’s challenges.