CBT, DBT, and ACT Explained: Therapy Approaches for Young People at Holina
Ian Young
05 min read
Why Therapy Needs to Be Age-Specific
Young people experience emotions, relationships, and challenges differently from adults. At Holina Village, our therapeutic approach is tailored to adolescents and young adults aged 15–24—combining evidence-based models with age-appropriate support in a holistic setting.
This article explores three core therapies used at Holina: CBT, DBT, and ACT.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) in Teen Recovery
What it is:
CBT focuses on identifying and challenging negative thought patterns and behaviours. It helps young people recognise how their thinking influences emotions and actions.
Why it works for teens:
Enhances emotional regulation
Reduces anxiety and depression
Builds self-awareness and problem-solving skills
Example:
A teen who constantly thinks “I’m a failure” learns to reframe that thought with evidence-based reasoning, reducing self-blame and increasing motivation.
📌 Related: Explore Our Counselling & Therapy Services →
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT): For Emotional Resilience
What it is:
DBT is an extension of CBT that adds mindfulness, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness. It’s ideal for teens dealing with intense emotions, self-harm, or relationship struggles.
Why it works for teens:
Teaches emotion regulation
Provides practical tools for crisis moments
Builds communication and boundary-setting skills
Who benefits most:
Teens with borderline traits, self-harming behaviours, or mood instability often find DBT especially empowering.
📌 Related: Learn About Teen Self-Harm Recovery →
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): Finding Meaning
What it is:
ACT encourages individuals to accept difficult emotions instead of avoiding them, while committing to values-based actions.
Why it works for teens:
Encourages emotional flexibility
Builds resilience by normalising emotional discomfort
Helps youth define personal values and future goals
How Holina uses ACT:
Teens explore their core values—like family, creativity, or honesty—and learn to take steps toward them even when feeling anxious or unsure.
Combining Approaches for Holistic Healing
No single method works for every young person. That’s why Holina integrates CBT, DBT, and ACT into each client’s customised care plan, alongside:
Art, music, and movement therapies
Family counselling
Mindfulness and body-based practices
Adventure therapy and farm-based healing
This holistic framework ensures we’re meeting the emotional, cognitive, and somatic needs of each resident.
Why Therapy at Holina Is Different
Specialised in youth recovery (15–24 only)
Licensed and trauma-informed therapists
Daily individual and group sessions
Nature-integrated therapy setting in Cyprus
Continuous family involvement and aftercare support
Begin Therapy in a Safe, Supportive Space
If your teen or young adult is struggling with emotional health, trauma, or addiction, therapy can be life-changing—especially when it’s delivered with empathy and structure.
📧 info@holinacyprus.com
📱 +66 (0) 62641-8369
🌍 www.holinacyprus.com
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