DBT for Teen in Orland Park, Illinois

Wellness in Unity: Group Support for Teens and Kids

Date/Time: Meeting Every Thursday evenings 6PM to 7PM (except holidays)
Age Groups: Ages 9 to 13 and Ages 14 to 17
Location: White Oak Institute – Orland Park
Therapist: Kristin Low, LPC, LNHA
Cost: $40 per session (not covered by insurance)

At White Oak Institute, we understand that the journey from adolescence to adulthood can be both exciting and overwhelming. Our weekly DBT for teens and kids groups provides a safe and supportive environment where children can develop essential life skills to navigate this critical stage of growth.

Using evidence-based Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), our group helps teens build emotional resilience, improve interpersonal relationships, and develop skills to handle life’s challenges with confidence. Through guided activities and peer connections, participants learn mindfulness, emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and effective communication.

Teen Technology Addiction
DBT For Teens

This group is designed to empower children and teens to better understand themselves, strengthen their relationships, and grow into capable and confident young adults.  Led by an experienced therapist, the group creates a supportive space for kids and teens to connect and build understanding with peers facing similar challenges. Together, we’ll explore strategies, practice real-life scenarios, and develop healthy ways to navigate relationships and emotions.

You don’t have to face life’s challenges alone. Join us for a group where growth and healing happen together.

Supporting Teens Through the Challenges of Growing Up

Navigating adolescence is one of the most pivotal and challenging phases of life. Teens today face a variety of emotional and social pressures as they learn to understand themselves and build healthy relationships. These challenges can sometimes lead to feelings of isolation, anxiety, or difficulty managing emotions.

At White Oak Institute, we provide a safe and compassionate space for teens to grow and thrive. Through our DBT for Kids and DBT for Teens group, participants gain essential skills like mindfulness, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. Parents can rest assured that their teens are supported as they navigate the complexities of growing up, building confidence and resilience along the way.

Together, we’ll empower teens to embrace their individuality, connect with peers who share similar experiences, and develop strategies to handle life’s challenges with grace and confidence.

Empowering Teens Through Skills and Growth-Focused Activities

Our weekly sessions provide a structured yet supportive environment to help teens navigate personal growth and develop essential life skills. Topics and activities include:

  • Self-Discovery and Reflection: Activities like “Am, Think I am, Don’t think I am,” A Letter to Myself, and Gratitude and CBT encourage personal insight and self-awareness.
  • Emotion Regulation and Coping Skills: Practice managing emotions with DBT skills, Exploding Emotions (balloons), Feelings and Coping Skills Jeopardy, and Anger Menu.
  • Building Healthy Relationships: Explore Navigating Relationships, role-playing scenarios, and Conflict Resolution to strengthen interpersonal skills.
  • Strength and Confidence Building: Boost self-esteem with activities like Spot the Strength, Emotion Charades, and Increasing Self-Esteem.
  • Creative and Interactive Exercises: Engage in unique activities such as the Hopes and Fears Tree, My Emotional Cup, and It’s My Life Music Album.
  • Problem Solving and Resilience: Develop practical skills with the Miracle Question, Lifeline, and Genogram Building.
  • Stress and Academic Pressures: Address education-related challenges and practice effective coping techniques for daily life.

This support group fosters connection, understanding, and growth, providing a safe space for teens to navigate their journey toward emotional well-being.

DBT For Teens Group FAQs

What is DBT, and how does it help teens and kids?

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based approach designed to help individuals manage emotions, improve relationships, and build effective coping skills. For teens, DBT focuses on equipping them with tools to navigate challenges like stress, peer relationships, and self-esteem struggles.

This group is open to kids aged 9 to 13 and teens aged 14–17 who are looking to develop emotional resilience, enhance their interpersonal skills, and better understand themselves. No prior experience with therapy is required.

Activities include role-playing, mindfulness exercises, group discussions, and creative activities like journaling, emotional charades, and skill-building games. These are designed to make learning DBT skills engaging and relatable for teens.

Each session lasts one hour and is limited to a small group of participants to ensure a supportive and interactive environment where everyone feels heard and included.

While the sessions are designed specifically for teens, parents are welcome to stay informed about the skills being taught and how they can support their teen’s growth outside of the group. Parental involvement may vary based on individual needs.

If your teen is facing challenges like managing emotions, building healthy relationships, or navigating the complexities of adolescence, this group can provide them with valuable skills and a supportive peer community. If you’re unsure, our team can help assess if this program is a good fit.

Worried about your teen or child’s well being, behavior, or emotions?
Register for our DBT for Kids and Teens support groups.