Helping Teens Who Cut Using DBT Skills to End Self-Injury

Discovering that your teen “cuts” is every parent's nightmare. Your most urgent question is: "How can I make it stop?" Tens of thousands of worried parents have turned to this authoritative guide for information and practical guidance about the growing problem of teen self-injury. Dr. Michael Hollander is a leading expert on dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), the most effective treatment approach for cutting. Vivid stories illustrate how out-of-control emotions lead some teens to hurt themselves, how DBT can help, and what other approaches can be beneficial. You'll learn practical strategies for talking to teens about self-injury without making it worse, teaching them skills to cope with extreme emotions in a healthier way, finding the right therapist, and helping reduce stress for your whole family. Incorporating the latest research, the second edition offers a deeper understanding of the causes of self-injury and includes new DBT skills. 

Michael Hollander, PhD, a recognized expert in the treatment of self-injury, has worked with adolescents and their families for more than 40 years. He helped to found the 3East DBT program at McLean Hospital, in Belmont, Massachusetts, where he is currently Director of Training and Senior Consultant. Dr. Hollander also serves on the psychiatry faculties of Harvard Medical School and the Massachusetts General Hospital. He trains mental health professionals in DBT worldwide.

Introduction: Kids Who Deliberately Hurt Themselves
I. Understanding Self-Injury
1. Fact versus Fiction: Bringing Self-Injury into the Light
2. What Sets the Stage for Self-Injury?
3. How Does Hurting Themselves Make Some Kids Feel Better?
4. DBT: The Right Therapy for Your Teen
II. Helping Your Teen in Treatment and at Home
5. Making the Most of DBT
6. Resetting the Stage: How to Help Your Teen Restore Emotion to Its Proper Place
7. Writing a Better Script: New Ways to Discourage Self-Injury
8. Taking Care of Yourself to Take Care of Your Teen
9. How to Speak with Siblings, Friends, and the School about Your Child’s Troubles
Appendix A. Effectiveness of Adolescent Intensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy Program
Appendix B. Intensive Treatment Programs
Resources
Websites Related to Self-Injury