Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) at High Focus Centers

High Focus Centers, formerly known as The Light Program and Rehab After Work, provides specialized dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) treatment for both adults and adolescents. Available at the partial hospitalization program (PHP) for adults, and both intensive outpatient (IOP) and outpatient levels of care for adults and adolescents.

DBT Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)

Partial hospitalization program (PHP) offers an intensive, structured environment designed to help individuals develop critical coping skills and emotional regulation strategies. Meeting five times a week for four hours each session, this program provides a comprehensive approach to mental health treatment, blending individual therapy, skills training and group support. Participants engage in modules focused on mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation and interpersonal effectiveness, all aimed at fostering resilience and improving overall well-being. The supportive group setting encourages shared experiences and mutual growth, creating a community where members can practice new skills in a safe and understanding environment. With the guidance of experienced therapists, participants are empowered to navigate their challenges and build a foundation for lasting recovery.

DBT Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

In the adult DBT intensive outpatient program, comprehensive DBT is adapted for a group setting. Clients engage in DBT skills training, review their diary cards and discuss DBT skills homework. This IOP convenes for 2.25 hours, four times per week, over eight weeks.

DBT Outpatient Program (OP)

Upon completion of the DBT IOP, many clients qualify to join a once-weekly outpatient DBT skills training group. This group aims to reinforce the use of DBT skills, with participation typically spanning six to twelve months. Subsequently, clients may become eligible for the DBT graduate group, a client-led forum that focuses on the practical application of DBT skills and the pursuit of a life worth living, a fundamental objective for those completing DBT.

Efficacy and Outcomes

Research indicates significant improvements in patients undergoing DBT, including:

  • Reduced self-harm behaviors
  • Decreased suicidal ideation and behavior
  • Lower hospitalization rates
  • Enhanced social functioning

The prognosis varies based on individual circumstances and the severity of the condition. Clients who actively engage in all components of DBT and consistently apply the skills in their daily lives typically experience the most substantial benefits.

Commitment to Progress

It is important to recognize that progress in DBT requires time and dedication. While some individuals may notice improvements in symptoms and coping skills within a few months, others may need a year or more to see significant progress. Consistent participation and application of DBT skills are crucial for achieving optimal outcomes.

Individualized Approach

Given that individual results in DBT can vary, it is essential to maintain open and honest communication with a mental health professional. They can offer personalized guidance based on your specific circumstances and needs.

Benefits of DBT Programs for Adults and Adolescents

By offering comprehensive DBT programs, High Focus Centers aims to help both adults and adolescents achieve sustainable, long-term recovery and wellness, equipping them with the necessary skills to manage their mental health effectively. We offer specialized dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) programs for both adults and adolescents, providing several key benefits:

  • Comprehensive treatment: The adult DBT intensive outpatient program (IOP) offers a modified group format that includes DBT skills training, diary card reviews, and homework discussions.
  • Structured approach: The adult IOP meets for 2.25 hours, four times per week, over eight weeks, providing intensive support and skill-building opportunities.
  • Continued care: After completing the IOP, clients may join a weekly outpatient DBT skills training group to further reinforce their skills, typically lasting 6-12 months.
  • Long-term support: DBT program graduates may become eligible for the DBT graduate group, a client-led forum that focuses on practical skill application and maintaining a life worth living.
  • Evidence-based results: Research has shown significant improvements in patients undergoing DBT, including reduced self-harm behaviors, decreased suicidal ideation and behavior, lower hospitalization rates and enhanced social functioning.
  • Tailored treatment: High Focus Centers creates individualized treatment plans based on each client’s unique needs, addressing a range of psychiatric disorders.
  • Multiple levels of care: For teens (ages 14-18), High Focus Centers offers programs with varying levels of structure and intensity to fit individual needs.
  • Skill development: Adolescents learn DBT skills to improve emotional regulation, interpersonal effectiveness and distress tolerance.
  • Flexibility: High Focus Centers provides outpatient mental health treatment for both adults and adolescents, with some locations offering co-occurring substance use disorder treatment.
  • Evidence-based techniques: The centers employ various evidence-based approaches in their treatment programs.

Conditions Addressed with DBT

  • Depression
  • Anxiety disorders
  • Bipolar disorder
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • Trauma and complex trauma
  • Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
  • Borderline personality disorder (BPD)
  • Substance use disorders (as part of co-occurring treatment)
  • Self-harming behaviors
  • Suicidal ideation and behavior
  • Mood disorders
  • Impulse control disorders

The DBT programs at High Focus Centers are designed to help clients with emotional regulation, interpersonal effectiveness and distress tolerance. These skills are particularly beneficial for individuals struggling with conditions characterized by intense emotions, unstable relationships and self-destructive behaviors.

Additionally, High Focus Centers offers specialized programs for teens (ages 14-18) who may be dealing with mood and behavioral disorders resulting from developmental changes, school stress and social pressures.

It’s important to note that High Focus Centers creates individualized treatment plans based on each client’s unique needs, addressing a range of psychiatric disorders. This personalized approach allows them to tailor their DBT programs to effectively treat various mental health conditions, even those not explicitly listed.

Available at these locations:

  • Havertown, PA

  • Jenkintown, PA

  • Philadelphia, PA (Northeast)

    Northeast Philadelphia
  • Radnor, PA