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.

The next cohort for the DBT Teen Skills Training group will take place in late 2026 or 2027. The course will take place over 13 sessions over. Group members will learn and practice the skills during group sessions and complete skills practice in between sessions.

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

Teen DBT Skills Training Group

  • Time: TBD, in-person at Richmond Family Psychology

  • Group will run for 13 sessions.

  • Commitment to at least 10 of the 13 sessions required

  • Group cost: $1,220 total tuition. Tuition includes:

    • All 13 sessions

    • Materials for sessions, including a detailed workbook of skills

    • One intake session (45-60 minute) with parent and teen required to assess group fit and complete paperwork

    • Multiple payment plan options available

  • Teens need to have their own individual therapist

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible for DBT Skills Training Group?

Teens (ages 13 to 18 years old) 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 are 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 13 sessions.

What will my teen 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.

Are there other types of groups offered?

Currently, Dr. Pittman is only offering the DBT teen group. Dr. Pittman is also hoping to offer additional DBT skills groups in the future, including parent groups, multi-family skills groups, and young adult DBT groups. If you are interested in one of these other groups, please contact Dr. Pittman.

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