DBT Skills Training Groups

DBT Skills Training Groups

Interest Form

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based form of cognitive-behavioral therapy that focuses on helping teens and adults manage intense emotions, reduce self-destructive behaviors, and improve relationships. DBT Skills Training groups focus on teaching the five core DBT skills for teenagers (Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Emotion Regulation, Walking the Middle Path, and Interpersonal Effectiveness). Dr. Pittman leads the DBT Skills Training groups at Richmond Family Psychology.

During Winter/Spring 2026, two skills groups are offered and run parallel to each other: DBT Skills Training for Teens, and DBT Skills Training for Parents/Caregivers. Groups run on Thursdays from February 5 - April 30, 2026. It is recommended, but not required, that both parents and teens sign up for their respective group. Group members will learn and practice the skills during group sessions and complete skills practice in between sessions. Handouts and worksheets will be provided.

Interested in signing up? Please fill out this form. Have more questions? Contact Dr. Pittman.

Teen DBT Skills Training Group

  • Thursdays 4:30pm-5:30pm, in-person at Richmond Family Psychology

  • Group runs February 5 - April 30. There will be 12 sessions over 13 weeks (1 break for spring break)

  • Commitment to at least 10 of the 12 sessions required

  • Group cost: $75 per session, $900 total tuition; $170 intake (45-60 minute) with parent and teen required to assess group fit and complete paperwork

  • Teens need to have their own individual therapist

Parent/Caregiver DBT Skills Training Group

  • Thursdays 12pm-1pm, virtual

  • Group runs February 5 - April 30. There will be 12 sessions over 13 weeks (1 break for spring break)

  • Commitment to at least 10 of the 12 sessions required

  • Group cost: $75 per session, $900 total tuition; $170 intake (45-60 minute) with parent/caregiver required to assess group fit and complete paperwork

    • Special rate: $50 for parents of teens enrolled in teen group ($600 total); only one intake session needed if both parents enroll with their teen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible for DBT Skills Training Group?

Teens (ages 13 to 18 years old) or parents/caregivers of teens with at least two of the following concerns:

  • Reduced focus and awareness; confusion about self

  • Emotion Dysregulation (e.g., outbursts, crying, screaming, etc.)

  • Impulsivity

  • Interpersonal problems (e.g., arguments with friends)

  • Teenager and family challenges (e.g., frequent arguments, rule-breaking, etc.)

  • History of depression, self-harm, or suicidal ideation (note: individuals with active suicidal ideation may need a higher level of care and may not be eligible for group)

Teens participating in the teen group are also required to have their own individual therapist (does not need to be a DBT therapist). A release of information for the individual therapist is required. This is a precaution in the event of an emergency. 

Group participants are asked to commit to a minimum of 10 out of the 12 sessions.

What will I and/or my child get out of DBT Skills Training?

DBT Skills Training groups can have a number of benefits. Many of the benefits are directly tied to the skills taught. Some of the benefits include:

  • Increased self-awareness and awareness of emotions; decreased avoidance of traumatic or difficult emotions

  • Increased ability to to regulate or control emotions and reactions to stressful experiences

  • Improvement in problem-solving skills and ability to resolve conflicts with others

  • Improvements in relationship

  • Decreases in unhealthy or problematic behavior; increased safety

Can I use my insurance to cover group costs?

Dr. Pittman is an out-of-network provider, so your insurance will not be billed directly for groups fees. Some insurance companies will provide reimbursement for out-of-network services, such as group therapy. Dr. Pittman can provide a superbill if you would like to submit it to your insurance company for reimbursement. Please review our guide on superbills and how to check your benefits.

Interested in signing up? Please fill out this form. Have more questions? Contact Dr. Pittman.