Growing up in today’s world isn’t easy. For many young adults, the transition from adolescence to independence is accompanied by unique pressures: navigating higher education or the workforce, forming meaningful relationships, and living in a society shaped by systemic inequality, climate uncertainty, and political polarization. All of these realities can take a toll on mental health. The good news? Evidence-based support exists.

Our Young Adult DBT Skills Classes are designed for individuals aged 18–29 who want to develop practical tools for managing emotions, enhancing relationships, and achieving stability in uncertain times. Through structured, skills-based learning and the support of a peer group facing similar challenges, you can strengthen resilience and create a more fulfilling life.

Why DBT Skills Matter for Young Adults

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) was developed to help people struggling with intense emotions and the difficulties that come with them. But DBT is more than just therapy — it’s a set of life skills that anyone can benefit from, especially young adults navigating a rapidly changing world.

Young adulthood is often marked by:

• High emotional intensity as you navigate identity, relationships, and independence.
• Social stressors such as systemic racism, gender and sexuality-based marginalization, and the impact of divisive politics.
• Existential concerns, such as climate change and global anticipation, create feelings of powerlessness.
• Practical transitions such as moving out, starting careers, or continuing education.

The intersection of these challenges can feel overwhelming. Our DBT skills classes acknowledge these realities openly while providing concrete, actionable skills for coping. The underlying message is simple: you may not have created these problems, but you can learn to navigate them with skill and purpose — and even in the midst of pain, life can still be worth living.

What Makes Young Adult DBT Skills Classes Unique

Unlike generic therapy groups, our program is designed specifically for people between 18 and 29, meaning you’ll learn alongside peers who genuinely understand your stage of life.

Key elements that set our program apart:

• Age-specific peer support: Learning in a group where others share similar experiences increases connection, empathy, and accountability.
• Integration of social context: We don’t ignore systemic or environmental stressors — we name them, validate them, and provide tools for responding.
• Skills-based curriculum: Rather than focusing only on discussion, each class teaches evidence-based strategies you can apply immediately.
• Flexibility: Commit one module at a time, or complete the full program for deeper growth.

Program Structure: How It Works

The Young Adult DBT Skills Training Program is structured into 8-week modules, each focusing on one of the four core DBT skill sets. Classes meet weekly for 90 minutes, offering an interactive, supportive space to learn and practice skills.

Most students complete the full 6-month program, though you’re only required to commit to one module at a time. This allows flexibility while also encouraging long-term growth.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

1. Core Mindfulness

Every module begins with two weeks of mindfulness training. Mindfulness is the basis of DBT — it teaches you to stay present, reduce judgment, and access your inherent wisdom. These skills help you:

• Pause before reacting.
• Notice and name emotions clearly.
• Shift attention away from unhelpful thoughts.
• Engage fully in the moment.

2. Distress Tolerance

Life includes pain and stress. Distress tolerance skills help you survive crisis moments without making things worse. These strategies include:

• Grounding techniques to anchor yourself in overwhelming situations.
• Self-soothing methods that reduce panic or despair.
• Acceptance practices teach you how to endure difficulty with strength.

3. Emotion Regulation

Many young adults describe feeling “at the mercy” of their emotions. In this module, you’ll learn:

• How emotions work biologically and psychologically.
• How to reduce vulnerability to emotional overwhelm.
• Techniques for shifting or reducing difficult emotions.
• Ways to counteract unhelpful urges.

The goal is to understand and manage your emotions so they work for you, not against you.

4. Interpersonal Effectiveness

Healthy relationships are essential to a meaningful life. This module helps you:

• Communicate clearly and assertively.
• Ask for what you need without guilt.
• Build stronger, more balanced connections.
• Handle conflict effectively.

Together, these skills empower you to create relationships that support your growth, rather than drain your energy.

Requirements for Participation

To ensure participants receive the best support, there are a few requirements for joining the Young Adult DBT Skills Class:

• Individual therapy: You must be engaged in individual therapy, though it does not need to be at our center. This helps you integrate class skills into your personal journey.
• Class materials: All participants purchase DBT Skills Training Handouts and Worksheets, which are used throughout the program.
• Commitment: Each module requires an 8-week commitment. While many complete the whole 6-month series, you can commit to one module at a time.

If you need individual therapy in addition to the group, let us know when you reach out — we can help connect you with the proper support.

The Role of Context: Mental Health in Today’s World

One of the defining features of our program is that we openly acknowledge the broader social and environmental challenges that shape young adults’ experiences.

This includes:

• The invalidating environments created by structural racism and systemic inequities.
• The distress of climate change and uncertainty about the future.
• The impact of gender and sexuality-based marginalization.
• The stress of political polarization and societal upheaval.

Rather than dismissing these realities, we validate them — and teach skills to strengthen your sense of agency and resilience despite external pressures.

If you’re curious about the deeper philosophical foundation behind this approach, our article on the dialectic in DBT explains how balance, acceptance, and change work together in this therapy model.

Who Facilitates the Classes?

Our Young Adult DBT Skills Classes are facilitated by Ari Tavano, LCSW, an experienced therapist who brings both clinical expertise and an in-depth understanding of the challenges facing young adults today. Ari combines structured teaching with warmth, validation, and humor — creating a supportive environment where participants feel both challenged and understood.

Benefits You Can Expect

By participating fully in the program, you may notice:

• Reduced impulsivity and destructive coping patterns.
• Improved ability to handle stress without falling apart.
• Stronger relationships and more transparent communication.
• Greater emotional balance and stability.
• Increased confidence in navigating real-world challenges.

The true benefit of DBT skills is that they are lifelong tools. Once you learn them, you can apply them in every area of your life — from handling conflict at work, to managing anxiety about the future, to deepening personal relationships.

Practical Details: Schedule, Fees, and Registration

• Schedule: Classes run in 8-week cycles. For current start dates and availability, see our DBT skills classes schedule.
• Fees: For pricing information, including class fees and payment options, please visit our pricing page.
• Location: Depending on the cycle, classes may be offered virtually or in person. Contact us for the latest details.
• Enrollment: Space is limited. Reach out early to secure your spot.

Why Choose Oakland DBT and Mindfulness Center

At our center, we are dedicated to delivering high-quality, evidence-based care that is grounded in compassion and cultural awareness. Our clinicians specialize in DBT and mindfulness-based therapies, and our programs are tailored to meet the unique needs of different groups — from young adults to parents to adults seeking ongoing skills practice.

Learn more about our philosophy, services, and team at the Oakland DBT and Mindfulness Center.

Final Thoughts 

If you are between 18 and 29 and ready to develop skills that can transform how you live, connect, and thrive, the Young Adult DBT Skills Classes are here to support you.

Whether you’re struggling with overwhelming emotions, navigating complex relationships, or simply wanting to feel more balanced in a complicated world, these classes provide a proven framework for growth. With professional guidance, peer support, and practical tools, you can move toward a life that feels worth living.

Take the first step today. Contact us to learn more, explore upcoming schedules, and join a community committed to resilience and growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be interpreted with a mental health condition to join?

No. Many participants want tools for handling emotions and stress more effectively.

How is this program right for me?

If you’re between 18–29, open to learning, and willing to practice skills in and outside of class, this program can benefit you.

Can I join if I’m already in therapy elsewhere?

Yes. You only need to be in some form of individual therapy, not necessarily at our center.

Do I have to do the full 6 months?

No. You can commit to one module at a time. Many find completing the whole sequence most helpful, but it’s not required.