Welcome to the training series!
This training introduces the core principles and skills of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), an evidence-informed therapeutic approach that emphasizes mindfulness, emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and effective interpersonal communication. You will review key DBT modules and practice selected skills that can help youth increase self-awareness, manage intense emotions, cope with stress, and build healthier relationships.
In addition to introducing the skills themselves, the training provides guidance on teaching and reinforcing DBT skills with youth across a range of settings. You will explore strategies for facilitating skills practice in individual and group environments, adapting activities for different developmental levels, and supporting engagement in both in-person and remote learning contexts. Practical tools, examples, and teaching tips will be provided to help you integrate DBT-informed approaches into your work with youth.
We hope that this training is helpful and provides information on how to use these skills with youth and in your own life!
Learning Objectives
At the conclusion of this course, you should be able to:
- Explain the principles and structure of DBT and its application in supporting youth emotional and behavioral health.
- Describe the core DBT skills domains—mindfulness, emotion regulation, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and dialectical thinking.
- Apply selected DBT skills and tools to help youth manage emotions, tolerate distress, and improve interpersonal interactions.
- Implement strategies for teaching DBT skills to youth in individual, group, and remote learning settings.
Learning Audience
This training is designed for professionals working with youth in educational, behavioral health, community, and youth-serving environments who support those facing emotional, behavioral, or interpersonal challenges.
Time to Complete
This course takes 2 to 3 hours to complete. You can take this course at your own pace; however, we recommend taking one lesson per week to allow time to practice skills between sessions.
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