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Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) - Introduction

Name: Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) - Introduction
Rating: 4.2 (882 reviews)

Learn the foundational concepts, four core skill areas, and common tools of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Created byPsychologyClass Org by Aman Varma

Last updated 8/2026

English

English [Auto],

What you'll learn

How to get started as a DBT Counselling Professional
How to Structure Therapy Session
How to Guide Your Client
Advanced DBT Emotion Regulation Skills
Advanced DBT Distraction Techniques
Advanced DBT Self Soothing Skills
Advanced DBT Relaxation Exercises
Advanced DBT Mindfulness Exercises
Advanced DBT Interpersonal Effectiveness Skills

Course content

12 sections • 92 lectures • 10h 19m total length

Course Overview5:23
Explore the core concepts and practical skills of dialectical behavioral therapy, including distress tolerance, mindfulness, emotion regulation, sleep skills, and interpersonal effectiveness, with applications to narcissism, depression, and anxiety.
Q&A0:17
Counselor Intervention & Client Worksheets Download0:24
Download study notes and worksheets from the resource section to print and refer, deepening your understanding of the course's principles and techniques.
Overview of DBT & Course Flow1:48
In this course, you will learn complete Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Skills. The four modules of psychological and emotional function that DBT focuses on include: Mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation and interpersonal effectiveness.
What is DBT Dialectical Behavior Therapy?9:20
In this course, you will learn complete Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Skills. The four modules of psychological and emotional function that DBT focuses on include: Mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation and interpersonal effectiveness.
The Standard DBT Treatment Program8:50
Explore a flexible, principle-oriented DBT treatment program with options: motivation, capability, generalization, environment changes, and therapist motivation. Apply individual therapy and skill development sessions, plus mindfulness and distress tolerance skills.

Foundational Beliefs of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)7:37
In this course, you will learn complete Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Skills. The four modules of psychological and emotional function that DBT focuses on include: Mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation and interpersonal effectiveness.
Start With Life Vision4:26
In this course, you will learn complete Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Skills. The four modules of psychological and emotional function that DBT focuses on include: Mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation and interpersonal effectiveness.
Mood Monitoring3:54
In this course, you will learn complete Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Skills. The four modules of psychological and emotional function that DBT focuses on include: Mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation and interpersonal effectiveness.
Basics of Behavior5:26

Introduction to Basic Distress Tolerance Skills of DBT Therapy6:10
In this course, you will learn complete Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Skills. The four modules of psychological and emotional function that DBT focuses on include: Mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation and interpersonal effectiveness.
What are Distraction Skills1:35
Guidelines for Distration Skills3:32
In this course, you will learn complete Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Skills. The four modules of psychological and emotional function that DBT focuses on include: Mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation and interpersonal effectiveness.
Emergency Plan & 7 Distraction Skills22:24
In this course, you will learn complete Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Skills. The four modules of psychological and emotional function that DBT focuses on include: Mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation and interpersonal effectiveness.

Introduction to Self Soothing Skills of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)14:05
In this course, you will learn complete Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Skills. The four modules of psychological and emotional function that DBT focuses on include: Mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation and interpersonal effectiveness.
What are self soothing skills1:10
In this course, you will learn complete Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Skills. The four modules of psychological and emotional function that DBT focuses on include: Mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation and interpersonal effectiveness.
Radical Self Acceptance9:58
In this course, you will learn complete Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Skills. The four modules of psychological and emotional function that DBT focuses on include: Mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation and interpersonal effectiveness.
Everday Acceptance2:48
In this course, you will learn complete Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Skills. The four modules of psychological and emotional function that DBT focuses on include: Mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation and interpersonal effectiveness.

DBT Distress Tolerance Skill Advance 16:51
In this course, you will learn complete Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Skills. The four modules of psychological and emotional function that DBT focuses on include: Mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation and interpersonal effectiveness.
DBT Distress Tolerance Skill Advance 27:40
DBT Distress Tolerance Skill Advance 32:10
DBT Distress Tolerance Skill Advance 42:00
Practice body scan meditation to observe sensations from head to toe without judging or changing them, a mindfulness technique akin to progressive muscle relaxation that lasts 35–45 minutes.
DBT Distress Tolerance Skill Advance 51:23
Create an Emergency Plan0:03

Mindfulness Skills2:53
In this course, you will learn complete Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Skills. The four modules of psychological and emotional function that DBT focuses on include: Mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation and interpersonal effectiveness.
What Skills - Additional Instructions0:45
In this course, you will learn complete Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Skills. The four modules of psychological and emotional function that DBT focuses on include: Mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation and interpersonal effectiveness.
What skills & Wise Mind12:00
In this course, you will learn complete Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Skills. The four modules of psychological and emotional function that DBT focuses on include: Mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation and interpersonal effectiveness.

DBT - Mindfulness in Daily Life 10:46
DBT - Mindfulness in Daily Life 28:38
Develop self awareness toward detrimental thoughts to reduce negative thinking and emotional turmoil. Practice journaling and contemplative meditation to observe thoughts objectively and cultivate a meditative life.
DBT - Mindfulness in Daily Life 311:31
Advocate cultivating a duty to keep the mind fresh and calm by minimizing defiled thoughts, reducing overthinking, and using distraction or mindful routines to maintain equanimity.
DBT - Mindfulness in Daily Life 410:26
Practice mindful speech and writing that avoid hurting others. Limit journaling that amplifies negativity, recognize most thoughts are fleeting, and choose assertive, non-hostile communication to keep the mind fresh.
DBT - Mindfulness in Daily Life 58:30
Develop self-awareness to stop making excuses that hurt your own mind, break the habit of negative thinking triggered by daily events, and regain calm and equanimity.
DBT - Mindfulness in Daily Life 67:28
DBT - Mindfulness in Daily Life 75:13
Never direct your mind toward negativity; train it to stay present, guard your thoughts, and reduce distractions like reels, gossip, and news to support a meditative, positive life.
DBT - Mindfulness in Daily Life 84:53
Act opposite to emotion to break the vicious cycle of depression, procrastination, and lethargy using acceptance and commitment therapy; practice manasikara meditation to balance lust.
DBT - Mindfulness in Daily Life 94:59
DBT - Mindfulness in Daily Life 105:44
DBT - Mindfulness in Daily Life 114:40
DBT - Mindfulness in Daily Life 125:25
Cultivate restfulness as nourishment for the brain by avoiding places and people devoid of it, and use mindful breathing to stay present in daily tasks.
DBT - Mindfulness in Daily Life 134:56
Balance your thinking with times of quietness to avoid excess and overwhelm. Align work, personal life, and money to pursue a meditative life.
DBT - Mindfulness in Daily Life 144:34
Practice mindful eating to balance mind and body, noting foods that trigger anxiety and psychosomatic IBS, such as deep fried or spicy options after a breakup, and seek soothing choices.
DBT - Mindfulness in Daily Life 155:52
Commit to a meditative life through daily mindfulness and internal work, remind yourself hourly, internalizing thoughts to respond proactively and keeping this practice uncompromisable.
DBT - Mindfulness in Daily Life 166:46
Practice thought diffusion in ACT by viewing thoughts as vague and impermanent and as separate from you, using leaves, clouds, or notifications as nonattachment metaphors.
DBT - Mindfulness in Daily Life 178:27
Discover the pleasure of freedom from obsessions by recognizing impermanence, reducing thoughts, and cultivating mindful boundaries to restore peace and clarity.
DBT - Mindfulness in Daily Life 183:29
DBT - Mindfulness in Daily Life 196:35
Explore how repeated thoughts and actions gain strength, and cultivate mindful, disciplined thinking and behavior; use thought policing in cognitive behavioral therapy to redirect tendencies before they harden.
DBT - Mindfulness in Daily Life 205:12
Learn to restrain the five senses and master tongue, taste, and speech to calm overthinking, manage desires, and cultivate a meditative, clear mind rooted in controlling senses and desires.
DBT - Mindfulness in Daily Life 214:08
Four Mindful Meditations6:16
Explore four mindful meditations you can practice daily: walking meditation, all inclusive meditation, neutral breath position, and anapanasati to cultivate awareness and calm in daily life.

Primary & Secondary Emotions4:08
In this course, you will learn complete Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Skills. The four modules of psychological and emotional function that DBT focuses on include: Mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation and interpersonal effectiveness.
Six Steps to Recognize Emotions5:49
In this course, you will learn complete Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Skills. The four modules of psychological and emotional function that DBT focuses on include: Mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation and interpersonal effectiveness.
Overcoming barriers to healthy emotion1:08
In this course, you will learn complete Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Skills. The four modules of psychological and emotional function that DBT focuses on include: Mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation and interpersonal effectiveness.
Pros and Cons3:50
In this course, you will learn complete Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Skills. The four modules of psychological and emotional function that DBT focuses on include: Mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation and interpersonal effectiveness.
Acronym - IMPROVE25:13
Building Contentment & Satisfaction6:08
In this course, you will learn complete Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Skills. The four modules of psychological and emotional function that DBT focuses on include: Mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation and interpersonal effectiveness.
Generating positive emotions5:58
In this course, you will learn complete Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Skills. The four modules of psychological and emotional function that DBT focuses on include: Mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation and interpersonal effectiveness.
Attend to relations6:29
In this course, you will learn complete Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Skills. The four modules of psychological and emotional function that DBT focuses on include: Mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation and interpersonal effectiveness.
ROUTINE Acronym2:08

Goals of Emotion Regulation Skills17:32
Emotion Regulation Skills4:47
Nature of Emotions Part 17:30
Recognize that emotions are impermanent; they come and go, with pain or joy that fades, guiding patience and detachment to avoid impulsive actions.
Nature of Emotions Part 29:24
Nature of Emotions Part 37:12
Explore how emotions are impermanent and unsatisfactory, and how clinging fuels suffering. Practice Vipassana meditation by observing body sensations to loosen the grip on craving and achieve emotional freedom.
Nature of Emotions Part 42:25
Nature of Emotions Part 53:30
Nature of Emotions Part 64:25
Nature of Emotions Part 79:15
Learn to regulate intense emotions in DBT by observing without engagement, staying centered, and applying techniques gradually with note cards that serve as reminders amid triggers.
Tools for Handling Intense Emotions 15:16
Learn five ways to regulate emotions and overcome emotion dysregulation using CBT, DBT, ACT, somatic psychotherapy, and compassion-focused therapy, and tailor a personal mix for daily functioning.
Tools for Handling Intense Emotions 25:52
Learn how cognitive behavioral therapy explains that emotions arise from interpretations of events, and how questioning beliefs and shifting from rigid to flexible views changes thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
Tools for Handling Intense Emotions 34:23
Identify your triggers to understand why emotions arise, and develop self-awareness through introspection and reflection, exploring underlying beliefs and rationality to reduce dysfunction.
Tools for Handling Intense Emotions 49:31
Record thoughts and journaling help identify cognitive distortions, raise awareness, and reframe negative thoughts; apply behavioral activation and opposite actions to regulate intense emotions.
Tools for Handling Intense Emotions 56:44
Explore dialectical behavioral therapy's emotion regulation skills, focusing on distraction techniques, differentiating healthy distraction from escapism, and using journaling and practical reminders to regulate intense emotions.
Tools for Handling Intense Emotions 65:57
Tools for Handling Intense Emotions 75:34
Learn practical DBT tools for managing intense emotions, including breath work, progressive muscle relaxation, and Q controlled relaxation, plus distraction, self-soothing, and mindfulness to calm the nervous system.
Tools for Handling Intense Emotions 88:21
Explore Acceptance and Commitment Therapy tools to regulate intense emotions by cultivating psychological flexibility through mindfulness, clarifying values, setting goals, and applying workability over rigid thinking.
Tools for Handling Intense Emotions 92:16
Tools for Handling Intense Emotions 107:51
This lecture explains compassion-focused therapy as a way to regulate intense emotions by cultivating self-compassion, patience, and a positive affiliation network, while setting boundaries to cut toxic influences.
Tools for Handling Intense Emotions 114:46
Cultivate nonjudgmental affiliation with others and yourself, practice self-compassion and unlearning self-criticism, and treat yourself as you would your most beloved person.
Tools for Handling Intense Emotions 123:02
Tools for Handling Intense Emotions 139:53
Test

Requirements

Basic Counselling or Talk Therapy Skills
A formal education is psychology field

Description

Introduction to Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Foundational Concepts & Skills

An introductory, educational course exploring the core concepts and skill areas of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Designed for students, educators, helping professionals, and anyone interested in psychology, the course provides an accessible introduction to DBT theory, terminology, and commonly used skills for educational purposes, self-study, and personal understanding.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a structured therapeutic approach developed by psychologist Dr. Marsha Linehan. It incorporates concepts related to mindfulness, emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness. This course introduces the foundations of DBT and explains its major skill areas in a clear, step-by-step format.

What You Will Learn

Understand the Foundations of DBT: Explore the origins, basic principles, and theoretical foundations of Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
Explore the 4 Core Skill Areas: Learn the basic concepts behind Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Emotion Regulation, and Interpersonal Effectiveness.
Explore Common DBT Tools: Become familiar with examples of DBT exercises, worksheets, and skills and understand their basic structure.
Understand Emotional and Behavioral Patterns: Explore concepts related to emotional reactivity, impulsive behavior, stress, and behavioral responses.
Build Conceptual Understanding: Develop a basic familiarity with DBT terminology and frameworks for academic learning, personal education, or general interest in psychology.

The 4 Core DBT Skill Areas

1. Mindfulness

An introduction to observing and describing present-moment experiences with greater awareness and without immediately judging them.

2. Distress Tolerance

An introduction to concepts and skills associated with getting through difficult or stressful situations without making the situation worse.

3. Emotion Regulation

An overview of concepts related to identifying, understanding, and responding to difficult emotional experiences.

4. Interpersonal Effectiveness

An introduction to DBT concepts related to communication, expressing needs, maintaining relationships, and setting boundaries.

Who This Course Is For

Students: Psychology, social work, counseling, and related students who want an accessible introduction to DBT concepts alongside their academic studies.
Educators and Helping Professionals: People who want to become familiar with DBT terminology and its foundational concepts.
Psychology Enthusiasts: Anyone interested in learning about DBT and its approach to emotions, behavior, and relationships.
Personal Learning: Individuals interested in exploring DBT concepts and skills for self-education and personal reflection.

Course Structure

Clear, self-paced video lessons introducing the main concepts of DBT
Straightforward explanations of the four core skill areas
Examples of commonly discussed DBT exercises and worksheets for educational exploration
A foundation for understanding DBT terminology and concepts before exploring more advanced or formal training

Important Note

This is an educational and introductory course. It is intended for learning, self-study, and general understanding of DBT concepts. Completing this course does not qualify you to practice counseling or psychotherapy, diagnose or treat mental health conditions, or provide DBT as a clinical intervention. It is not a substitute for formal professional training, supervision, or mental health care.

Who this course is for:

Psychology Counselors who want to practice DBT Modality

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) - Introduction

What you'll learn

Explore related topics

Course content

Standard Treatment Program - Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)6 lectures • 26min

Foundational Tools - Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)4 lectures • 21min

Distress Tolerance Skills - Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)4 lectures • 34min

Self Soothing Skills - Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)4 lectures • 28min

Advance Distress Tolerance Skills - Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)6 lectures • 20min

Mindfulness Skills - Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)3 lectures • 16min

Advance Mindfulness Skills - Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)22 lectures • 2hr 14min

Emotion Regulation Skills - Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)9 lectures • 1hr 1min

Advance Emotion Regulation Skills - Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)22 lectures • 2hr 25min

Sleep Better Skills - Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)1 lecture • 1min

Requirements

Description

Who this course is for: