Behavioral therapy is a modern school of psychotherapy. Unlike older psychotherapy options, it focuses on practical behavior changes that help support everyday well-being. Many people go through some form of behavioral therapy as adults. However, this approach is equally as useful for teenagers. In fact, research shows that behavioral treatments can help teens recover from a wide range of mental health challenges. They do so by providing specific key benefits for your child.
Behavioral Therapy Basics
As children grow and develop, they fall into habitual patterns of thinking, emotional response, and behavior. These patterns help determine how they view themselves and the world around them. In some cases, teens develop habits that support their general health and well-being. However, teenagers may also develop habits that make them feel less healthy and well. Over time, these damaging thoughts, emotions, and behavior can lead to serious mental health issues. But fortunately, they can be changed for the better.
Behavioral therapy is built on an understanding of this reality. Its goal is to help teens understand their situation and make beneficial behavior changes. There are multiple types of this therapy available. While they share a basic orientation, each of them relies on its own methods to produce positive results.
CBT Behavioral Therapy for Teens
Cognitive-behavioral therapy in Washington and elsewhere is commonly known as CBT. CBT currently ranks as one of the go-to therapy options for teens. That’s true because it can help your child recover from a variety of mental health issues.
Like adults, teens affected by such issues often have distorted views of themselves and their surroundings. CBT helps your teenager:
- Understand these damaging distortions
- Learn how to spot distortions when they’re active
- Develop a more accurate view of themselves and their reality
The therapy is quite problem-oriented. It focuses on the challenges your child faces in day-to-day life.
DBT for Teens
Dialectical behavior therapy, or DBT, is another common option for teenagers. DBT began as a specific form of CBT. However, it relies on different principles to help your child. The four main focuses of DBT are the development of the following:
- A mindful, accepting attitude toward present reality
- An improved ability to tolerate distressing emotional states
- Improved interpersonal skills
- A greater ability to identify and regulate various emotions
As a rule, the therapy takes place in both group and one-on-one sessions.
The Benefits of Behavioral Therapy for Teenagers
Research reveals the benefits of behavioral therapy for teens. For participants in CBT, those benefits include the breaking of negative thought and behavior patterns. They also include lower stress levels. Greater self-esteem is another common benefit. In addition, CBT can help teens ease the symptoms of the specific illnesses affecting them.
Teens in DBT may also receive a number of benefits. For example, participants often develop a better understanding of themselves. They also feel more rooted in reality. In addition, teens who receive DBT are often less affected by emotional ups and downs. The therapy has another key benefit. Studies show that it can help reduce at-risk teens’ chances of committing suicide.
Other Therapy Options
Your teen may also benefit from other kinds of behavioral therapy. In many cases, family behavioral therapy is an important option. That’s true because it can help you address significant problems within the family unit. In turn, the resolution of those problems may help improve your child’s odds of recovery.
Seek Behavioral Therapy for Teens Today
Need a behavioral psychotherapy program in your area? You may want to consult your child’s doctor. As an alternative, try contacting a local teen mental health expert. These professionals specialize in effective teen recovery options. Call today to get the process started.
