DBT-C (Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Children)

DBT-C services offered in Newport Beach, Laguna Beach and Dana Point, CA

Parenting a sensitive child with big emotions can feel overwhelming. You may find yourself walking on eggshells, dealing with frequent outbursts, or unsure how to help your child calm down once they’re upset. Many parents feel stuck between wanting to be supportive and needing to set limits, and not knowing what actually works.

DBT-C offers a clear, effective path forward.

DBT-C (Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Children) Q & A

What is DBT-C?

DBT-C is an evidence based therapy for children ages 6-12 who struggle with intense emotions and behaviors. Based on the work of Marsha Linehan and adapted for children by Francheska Perepletchikova, PhD, DBT-C helps children learn to manage emotions, tolerate distress, and improve behavior, while actively coaching parents to respond in ways that creates lasting
change.

Signs your child may benefit:

Frequent tantrums or emotional outbursts
Difficulty calming down
Big reactions to small triggers
Impulsive or aggressive behavior
Struggles with relationships with siblings, parents, peers
Rigid thinking (black and white thinking, catastrophizing)
Sensory sensitivity (touch, smell, taste, sound, vision)

How will this help?

Children learn to understand and manage their emotions, increasing confidence and self-control
Parents gain practical tools to reduce power struggles, respond effectively, and feel more
confident in their parenting.

How long will this take?

The DBT-C program is a structured treatment, typically lasting about 20 weeks and includes:

Parent-focused sessions with coaching and support
A small number of individual child sessions
Family sessions to learn and practice skills together

Treatment focuses on four key skill areas: Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Emotion Regulation, and Interpersonal Effectiveness.

How can we improve our child’s behavior at school?

School staff collaboration is often added to the DBT-C program to help generalize the skills learned in sessions and improve school behaviors.

Virtual Sessions

All sessions are conducted virtually, allowing you to receive support and coaching in your child’s natural environment-where these challenges happen most.

Get started

If your child is struggling with big emotions or behavior, DBT-C can help, and you don’t have to figure it out alone.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn if DBT-C is the right fit for your family.