Dissemination and Implementation Field Trial of Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Adolescents With Bipolar Disorder

Dissemination and Implementation Field Trial of Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Adolescents With Bipolar Disorder

The overarching goal of this project is to evaluate the feasibility of implementing dialectical behavior therapy DBT for adolescents with bipolar disorder in an outpatient mental health clinic. In collaboration with the University of Pittsburgh, this study will measure study therapists' knowledge of the DBT model, adherence to the treatment model, and satisfaction with the treatment model.

This study proposes to implement dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) for adolescents with bipolar disorder (BD) in an outpatient mental health clinic serving youth with bipolar spectrum disorders. In collaboration with the University of Pittsburgh, this study will systemically operationalize, implement, and examine the specific training, supervision, and programmatic systems needed to successfully implement and sustain the intervention in an adherent manner to achieve positive patient outcomes. This study therefore presents a unique opportunity to enhance understanding of the necessary procedures for implementing the treatment in the community, while allowing us to examine effectiveness of the intervention at the community level.

Aim 1: To examine the short- and longer-term feasibility and acceptability of a training program in DBT for adolescents with BD through clinician satisfaction ratings.

Aim 2: To examine the short- and longer-term effects of the training on practitioner knowledge and performance, and patient outcomes.

Inclusion Criteria:

• English-speaking
• Age 13 years, 0 months to 19 years, 11 months
• Meet diagnostic criteria for BD by KSADS-PL
• Engaged in, or willing to proceed with, a pharmacotherapy regimen
• At least one parent/guardian with whom the patient lives or regularly interacts (>5 hours per week) is willing to participate in skills training
• Able and willing to give informed consent/assent to participate.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Evidence of mental retardation, moderate to severe pervasive developmental disorder, or organic central nervous system disorder by the K-SADS-PL, parent report, medical history, or school records
• A life-threatening medical condition requiring immediate treatment
• Current victim of sexual or physical abuse.