DBT Therapy for Kids in Markham, Vaughan & Oakville | Tikvah Family Services
Helping Kids and Teens Build Emotional Resilience with DBTDBT Therapy for Kids in MarkhamVaughan& Oakville
If your child or teen is struggling with big emotions, anxiety, impulsive behaviour, or even self-harm, you are not alone. At Tikvah Family Services, we offer Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) for kids and teens in Markham, Vaughan, and Oakville, providing a safe, supportive space for emotional healing and growth.
DBT was originally developed for adults with borderline personality disorder, but it’s been successfully adapted to help children and adolescents build skills in emotional regulation, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and mindfulness. For parents who feel overwhelmed or unsure of what to do next, DBT might be the game-changer your child needs.
What Is DBT Therapy and How Does It Help Kids?
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy is a structured, evidence-based therapy that helps kids:
- Identify and regulate intense emotions
- Tolerate distress without acting out
- Improve relationships with family and peers
- Learn mindfulness techniques to stay calm and present
DBT is especially helpful for children and teens who struggle with:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Emotional dysregulation
- ADHD
- Self-harm or suicidal ideation
- Intense mood swings or behavioural outbursts
DBT Therapy for Kids in MarkhamVaughan& Oakville-Why Choose DBT Therapy for Your Child?
Unlike traditional talk therapy, DBT is highly skill-focused, meaning your child is not only talking about their feelings but learning how to manage those feelings in real-life situations.
Benefits of DBT for Kids and Teens:
- Boosts emotional awareness
- Teaches healthy coping mechanisms
- Reduces self-harming behaviours
- Improves communication skills
- Builds confidence in handling stress
At Tikvah Family Services, our therapists tailor DBT to the developmental needs of each child, ensuring the techniques are engaging, age-appropriate, and empowering.
How Does DBT Therapy Work at Tikvah Family Services?
Our DBT therapy program typically includes:
- Individual therapy sessions: One-on-one time with a therapist who builds trust and helps your child work through specific challenges.
- Skills training sessions: Small group or individual sessions where kids learn the four DBT modules: mindfulness, emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness.
- Parent involvement: Parents are coached to support their child’s progress and apply DBT principles at home.
- Phone coaching (if needed): For teens needing real-time support to apply DBT skills.
Real-Life Example: How DBT Helped a Teen in Vaughan
“Our 13-year-old daughter had been struggling with emotional outbursts, anxiety, and low self-esteem. After just a few months in DBT, we noticed a major shift. She started using breathing techniques when overwhelmed, and even opened up to us more about her feelings. The therapists at Tikvah were incredibly supportive and truly understood her.” — A Vaughan Parent
DBT vs CBT: Which One Does My Child Need?
While Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) focuses on changing thought patterns, DBT adds a focus on acceptance and emotional regulation.
| DBT | CBT |
|---|---|
| Teaches mindfulness and emotional regulation | Focuses on challenging negative thoughts |
| Encourages acceptance and validation | Promotes logical thinking to shift behaviours |
| Designed for high emotional sensitivity | Great for anxiety and depression |
Some children benefit from both approaches, and our therapists will help determine the best fit.
Locations We Serve: Markham, Vaughan & Oakville
We proudly serve families in:
- Markham – Convenient for families in Unionville, Cornell, and surrounding areas.
- Vaughan – Supporting children in Thornhill, Woodbridge, and Maple.
- Oakville – Accessible therapy options for families in Bronte, Kerr Village, and Glen Abbey.
Whether you’re looking for DBT therapy in Oakville, Vaughan, or Markham, Tikvah Family Services provides a compassionate and effective approach.
Getting Started with DBT Therapy
Starting therapy can feel like a big step, but we’re here to walk you through it.
- Schedule a consultation – Talk with one of our child therapists to see if DBT is the right fit.
- Personalized assessment – We’ll learn about your child’s needs, challenges, and goals.
- Begin DBT sessions – Start the journey to emotional strength and resilience.
We also offer virtual therapy options if in-person visits are difficult.
FAQs About DBT Therapy for Kids
Q: What age is DBT appropriate for? A: DBT can be adapted for children as young as 7, though it’s most commonly used with preteens and teens (ages 10–18).
Q: How long does DBT therapy take? A: While it varies, many DBT programs run for 12–24 weeks. Longer support is available if needed.
Q: Is DBT covered by insurance? A: Many extended health insurance plans cover psychotherapy. Check with your provider or contact us for help navigating insurance.
Ready to Help Your Child Thrive?
DBT therapy can be a life-changing tool for children and teens who are struggling to manage emotions or behaviours. At Tikvah Family Services, we’re committed to helping families in Markham, Vaughan, and Oakville get the support they need.
Reach out today to book your consultation and take the first step toward healing.
📍 Serving Markham, Vaughan, Oakville
📞 Call Us or Visit Tikvah Family Services
