We are offering two sets of DBT-based parenting classes:
1) The Child Parenting Group (for parents of children ages 6-12).
2) The Teen Parenting Group (for parents of teens ages 13-end of high school). 

 

These classes are part of our Adolescent and Child DBT Programs and are also open to parents who are not in our DBT programs as a stand alone service.

What kind of parenting class is this?
The child parenting classes use DBT-Child materials.  The teen parenting classes use both DBT-Child and DBT-Adolescent materials.  DBT-Child is a research-based therapy developed by Francheska Perepletchikova, Ph.D. that integrates DBT skills and principles with Parent Management Training.   Like DBT, Parent Management Training is a highly researched approach by Alan Kazdin, Ph.D. Content of the class includes validation; dialectics; behavioral modification; assessing, managing and coaching teens at different levels of emotion; parent decision making and self-assessment of emotion regulation; and practical information about how to implement a behavior plan.

What is the class schedule?

We start with two 1-hour individual sessions with Dr. Rankin.  When parents have an understanding and commitment to the content of the class and have established their own goals, they enter the group.

Continued individual parenting sessions with Dr. Rankin may be recommended after the class is over.

Teen and Child Parenting Class: 
The group is virtual over Zoom, including 6 1-hour weekly evening sessions.
Parents do homework between sessions as well as a DBT diary card.

DBT Parenting is appropriate for children who may have some of the following symptoms:

-emotionally reactive and sensitive

-dislike change

-easily bored

-low frustration tolerance

-impulsive behaviors

-sensory sensitivities

-trouble with personal hygiene

-tend to have extreme and rigid thinking

-temper outbursts

-avoidant behavior, such as avoiding parents, school, outings, social events.

-relationship problems with parents, teachers, peers, and siblings

            with verbal aggression or trouble following directions

-unsafe behaviors such as aggression, self-harm or suicidality