DBT skills group for neurodivergent adolescents
A DBT skills group for neurodivergent teens, including autistic teens and teens with ADHD, taught in a way that fits how many neurodivergent teens learn best.
- Part of
- DBT Program
- Who it's for
- Neurodivergent adolescents
- Ages
- 13–17
- Joining
- At the start of each module
- When
- We'll share current days and times during your free phone consultation.
Who it's for
Neurodivergent teens, including autistic teens and teens with ADHD, who have a hard time managing strong emotions, stress or conflict with others.
No diagnosis is required. Teens who identify as neurodivergent, or who are still figuring that out, are welcome.
How the group is adapted
Teens learn the same core DBT skills as in our adolescent group. What changes is how they're taught.
- A clear, predictable structure
Every session follows the same routine, and what's coming next is always explained, so teens know what to expect.
- Concrete, direct teaching
Skills are broken into smaller steps and explained in plain, literal language, with real-life examples and visual supports.
- A steadier pace, with more practice
More time is spent practicing each skill in session, with repetition built in.
- Room for sensory needs
Teens can use fidgets, move around or take a break when they need to.
- Social situations made explicit
Unwritten social rules are talked through openly, so teens can use relationship skills with more confidence.
- Neurodiversity-affirming
The goal is to build skills for managing emotions and relationships, not to change who teens are or to ask them to hide their differences.
What you'll learn
Teens complete four modules of about 12 weeks each. Mindfulness is taught throughout.
- Mindfulness
Noticing thoughts, feelings and urges without being ruled by them. It's the foundation for every other skill.
- Distress tolerance
Getting through a crisis without making it worse, such as quickly calming your body when emotions spike, and accepting what can't be changed.
- Emotion regulation
Understanding what you feel and why, lowering your vulnerability to intense emotions, and changing emotions that don't fit the situation.
- Interpersonal effectiveness
Asking for what you need and saying no, while keeping relationships and self-respect intact.
- Walking the middle path
Skills for families: validating each other, finding middle ground in common parent–teen dilemmas, and encouraging the behavior you want to see more of.
The role of parents and caregivers
Parents and caregivers are invited to a workshop at the end of each module to learn the skills their teen is practicing and how to support them at home.
If you'd like to learn the skills alongside your teen every week, see our multifamily adolescent DBT group.
How to join
- Free phone consultation
We'll talk about what's been going on and whether this group is a good fit.
- Orientation
You and your teen meet with us to learn how the group works, set goals and ask any questions.
- Join at the start of a module
New members join together as a new module begins. If one is already underway, we'll let you know when the next one starts.
Common questions
Does my teen need a diagnosis to join?
No. The group welcomes teens who identify as neurodivergent or are still figuring that out, whether or not they have a formal diagnosis.
How is this different from the adolescent DBT group?
The skills are the same. The difference is in how they're taught: more structure, more concrete examples and practice, room for sensory needs, and a group of peers who share similar experiences.
When can I join?
New members join at the start of a module, so everyone learns each set of skills from the beginning. If a module is already underway, we'll let you know when the next one begins.
What do parents hear about what's said in group?
Group members agree to keep what others share private. Before starting, we talk with teens and parents about what is and isn't shared with parents, including what happens if there is a safety concern.
How much does it cost?
Fees are discussed during your free phone consultation. We are an out-of-network practice and provide superbills so you can seek reimbursement from your insurer. Fees and insurance
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Is this group right for you?
Start with a free phone consultation. We'll talk through whether this group fits and when the next one begins.