Join Our DBTeen Program
Mental Wellbeing Skills Groups for Young People and Families in Perth
DBTeen is a free, evidence-based program designed to support young people aged 14-18 who are struggling with emotional regulation, behaviour challenges, and interpersonal difficulties. Delivered in a supportive Primary Care setting, the program also includes family members, so carers can learn alongside teens and better support their mental wellbeing journey.
Now accepting referrals for Semester 2 – commencing August, 2026.
- Bentley: Tuesday evenings
- North Beach: Wednesday evenings
- Yangebup: Wednesday evenings
- Rockingham: Saturday mornings
- Shenton Park: Saturday mornings
What is DBTeen?
DBTeen is a Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)-informed skills training program tailored for young people who experience:
- Frequent and intense emotional states
- Problem behaviours such as self-injury, suicidal thoughts, substance misuse, or school avoidance
- Difficulties with family and peer relationships
- Feelings of emptiness or identity confusion
The program uses multi-family group sessions, where carers learn the same skills as their teens, allowing families to work together to embed these vital skills in daily life.
What does DBTeen cover?
Over 12 weeks, Lifeline WA’s DBTeen covers five core skill areas:
Mindfulness
Focusing on the present moment with acceptance.
Distress Tolerance
Managing painful emotions without making situations worse.
Walking the Middle Path
Finding balance and flexibility in thinking and behaviour.
Emotion Regulation
Developing strategies to handle intense emotions effectively.
Interpersonal Effectiveness
Communicating needs, building healthy relationships and self-respect.
About DBTeen
Learn more about Lifeline WA’s DBTeen Workshops.
Group locations & times
- Bentley: Tuesday evenings
- North Beach: Wednesday evenings
- Yangebup: Wednesday evenings
- Rockingham: Saturday mornings
- Shenton Park: Saturday mornings
How to get started
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Complete the DBTeen Referral Form: You can self-refer or have your GP or another healthcare professional submit it on your behalf.
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Attend an Introduction Session: Families will receive details about these sessions once the referral is received.
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Attend an Assessment: Next, you’ll be invited to attend an assessment to determine admission into the program.
Who can attend?
- Young people aged 14-18 experiencing difficulties regulating emotions and behaviour.
- A parent or adult carer must also commit to attending all 12 sessions alongside the young person.
Cost and Accessibility
- DBTeen is completely free, funded by the Western Australian Primary Health Alliance (WAPHA).
- Sessions are held in multiple convenient locations across Perth, with options for evening and weekend times.
Why Choose DBTeen?
Free, award-winning program helping WA teens and their families build emotional wellbeing and stronger connections
The DBTeen program is free of charge and accessible to all Western Australian families. Developed by Lifeline WA in 2019, this award-winning program was created to address critical gaps in youth mental health services. It is the only program of its kind in Western Australia, providing support to the whole Perth community regardless of socio-economic status. DBTeen has a proven impact, helping young people and their families improve emotional regulation, communication, and overall family relationships.
How to Register
Anyone can refer, including GPs, mental health professionals, or self-referral. Complete our registration form below and some from Lifeline WA will be in touch.
Frequently asked questions
For any questions or to get started with DBTeen, please call (08) 9261 4498 or email dbteen@lifelinewa.org.au.
Who is DBTeen suitable for?
DBTeen is designed for young people aged 14-18 struggling with emotional dysregulation and related behaviours, alongside a committed adult carer. It is not suitable for young people currently receiving intensive hospital or community mental health services.
Age Criteria:
- Young person must be 14–18 years old at the start of the group.
- A young person may be turning 14 during the semester (still eligible).
- A young person may be turning 19 during the semester, but must be 18 at the beginning of group.
What happens in the assessment?
After the introduction session, you will attend an assessment with a clinician who will discuss your needs, answer questions, and determine if DBTeen is the right fit for you.
How long is the program?
The program runs over 12 weekly sessions, each lasting approximately 2 hours.
Can I attend without a parent or carer?
No. The program requires a parent or adult carer to attend all sessions with the young person to support skills application at home.
Is there a cost?
No, DBTeen is a fully funded, free service.
Can I join mid-program?
Due to the structured nature of DBTeen, entry is only at the start of the 12-week program.
What if I can’t attend all sessions?
Consistent attendance is important for getting the full benefit. Please discuss any issues with attendance during your assessment.
Who facilitates the program?
DBTeen is delivered by qualified mental health professionals trained in DBT and youth mental health.
How you can help
Volunteer
Your time can help us save lives. Explore volunteering opportunities with Lifeline WA.
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Create your own fundraising page or download our fundraising kit.
Partnerships
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Donate today
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