Dialectical Behavior Therapy for At-Risk Adolescents: A Practitioner’s Guide to Treating Challenging Behavior Problems by Pat Harvey and Britt H. Rathbone is an indispensable resource for clinicians, therapists, and mental health professionals working with adolescents who struggle with emotional instability, impulsivity, and high-risk behaviors. Rooted in the principles of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) developed by Marsha Linehan, this guide provides a practical, compassionate, and structured approach to helping young clients navigate the complexities of adolescence while managing intense emotions and self-destructive tendencies.
Harvey and Rathbone bring years of clinical expertise to this guide, presenting DBT concepts in a clear, accessible, and practitioner-focused manner. The book bridges theory with application, offering real-world tools that can be easily implemented in therapy sessions, group settings, and family interventions. Each chapter builds a foundation of understanding before moving into specific, hands-on techniques to address behavioral challenges such as self-harm, suicidal ideation, aggression, and substance abuse—issues all too common in today’s adolescent population.
A standout feature of the book is its integration of family involvement. The authors emphasize that sustainable behavioral change in adolescents cannot occur in isolation. By teaching parents and caregivers the same DBT skills their children are learning—such as emotion regulation, distress tolerance, mindfulness, and effective communication—families can create a unified, supportive environment that reinforces growth and stability.
The writing style is warm yet professional, reflecting the authors’ deep empathy for both clinicians and their young clients. Through vivid case examples, sample dialogues, and detailed interventions, Harvey and Rathbone demystify DBT for professionals who may be new to the model, while still offering depth and nuance for experienced practitioners. Their approach is both evidence-based and deeply human, recognizing that behind every challenging behavior lies a young person struggling to cope with pain, confusion, and unmet emotional needs.
In addition to its clinical practicality, the book also excels as a teaching and supervisory tool. Its structured layout, therapeutic scripts, and reproducible worksheets make it ideal for training teams, guiding interns, or establishing DBT-informed programs in schools, clinics, or residential treatment centers.
Ultimately, Dialectical Behavior Therapy for At-Risk Adolescents stands out as one of the most comprehensive and user-friendly DBT guides available for working with youth. It balances scientific rigor with real-world applicability, equipping practitioners with the tools and insight needed to foster meaningful change.
Harvey and Rathbone’s guide reminds us that beneath every “at-risk” adolescent is a young person capable of resilience and transformation—when given the right skills, understanding, and support. For anyone dedicated to helping teens reclaim emotional balance and build a life worth living, this book is an essential and inspiring read.
Authors: Pat Harvey, ACSW, LCSW-C & Britt H. Rathbone, MSSW, LCSW-C
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