Virtual DBT Teen Group in Connecticut: Building Skills for Mindfulness, Resilience, and Healthy Relationships

Introduction

Navigating the teenage years can be overwhelming. Between school, friendships, social pressures, and emotions that sometimes feel out of control, many teens struggle to find balance. At Holding House Counseling in Litchfield, CT, we are offering a Virtual DBT Teen Group starting October 20 to help teens build the skills they need to feel calmer, stronger, and more connected.

DBT, or Dialectical Behavior Therapy, is a proven approach that teaches practical tools for managing emotions, reducing stress, and improving relationships. Our group is open to teens across Connecticut, including Litchfield, Simsbury, Torrington, and nearby areas.

What is DBT?

Dialectical Behavior Therapy was originally developed to help people who experience intense emotions. Over time, it has been shown to be especially effective for teens who struggle with:

• Anxiety and worry

• Mood swings or depression

• Impulsivity or risky behaviors

• Difficulties with friendships or family relationships

• Stress or overwhelm

DBT teaches skills in four core areas, giving teens tools they can use in daily life.

The 4 DBT Modules for Teens

1. Mindfulness

Mindfulness is the foundation of DBT. Teens learn how to pay attention to the present moment without judgment. By noticing their thoughts, feelings, and body cues, they can respond thoughtfully instead of reacting impulsively.

Example: Practicing mindfulness can help a teen calm racing thoughts before a big test or pause before sending an angry text.

2. Distress Tolerance

This module teaches skills for surviving tough moments without making things worse. Teens learn healthy ways to manage urges, ride out stress, and cope with crises.

Example: Instead of turning to unhealthy coping habits, teens can use DBT distress tolerance tools like grounding techniques, soothing activities, or problem-solving strategies.

3. Emotion Regulation

Emotion regulation skills help teens understand and manage their emotions. They learn how to reduce emotional intensity, prevent mood swings, and take care of themselves so they feel more balanced overall.

Example: By learning to identify triggers and build positive daily habits (like sleep, nutrition, and movement), teens gain more control over how they feel.

4. Interpersonal Effectiveness

Healthy relationships are vital for teens. This module teaches communication skills, boundary-setting, and self-respect. Teens learn how to ask for what they need, say “no” when appropriate, and maintain friendships that feel safe and supportive.

Example: A teen might use interpersonal effectiveness skills to stand up to peer pressure while keeping their self-respect intact.

Why Join Our Virtual DBT Teen Group in Connecticut?

Our group provides:

• A supportive environment where teens know they are not alone.

• Trauma-informed, holistic care from therapists who understand nervous system regulation and resilience.

• Practical tools that can be applied right away in school, at home, and with friends.

• Accessibility—teens can join virtually from anywhere in Connecticut, including Litchfield County, Simsbury, Torrington, and nearby communities.

Building Resilience for the Future

At Holding House Counseling, all of our services—whether individual therapy, couples therapy, Reiki healing, or group workshops—are built on the same foundation: healing trauma, regulating the nervous system, and building resilience for the future.

The DBT Teen Group is a powerful way to help young people grow the skills they need not only to cope, but to thrive.

How to Register

The Virtual DBT Teen Group begins October 20. Spaces are limited to ensure each teen receives personal attention and support.

📍 Serving teens across Connecticut: Litchfield, Simsbury, Torrington, and surrounding areas.

👉 To learn more or register, contact Lauren Gouveia, LCSW at lauren@holdinghousecounseling.com or 860-387-7349