DBT Skills Training Handouts and Worksheets, Second Edition

In this review of DBT Skills Training Handouts and Worksheets, Second Edition the bottom line is clear: this is a practical, clinic-ready collection of handouts and worksheets for therapists, counselors, and students using Dialectical Behavior Therapy. The reviewer found the book strongest as a companion to skills training groups and individual therapy because it assembles printable, ready-to-use materials that save preparation time and make DBT concepts actionable for clients. For anyone who teaches or practices DBT, the volume provides a compact, easy-to-reference toolkit.

Key Features

• Ready-to-use handouts: Each sheet is laid out for quick photocopying or printing to hand to clients during sessions.
• Practical worksheets: Worksheets guide clients through core DBT skills so therapists can move quickly from explanation to practice.
• Organized by skill: Materials are grouped to align with common DBT modules, helping clinicians find relevant resources fast.
• Edition updates: The second edition refines presentation and formatting for clearer client use and easier classroom distribution.
• Compact reference: The book functions as a single-volume packet source, reducing the need to compile materials from multiple texts.

Who It's For

The book is aimed at mental health professionals, graduate students, and DBT group leaders who need a concise library of client-facing handouts and exercises. It is especially useful for those running skills training groups or conducting individual DBT-informed therapy who value time-saving, reproducible materials and clear organization.

Those who should look elsewhere include readers seeking a deep theoretical exposition of DBT or a comprehensive therapist manual; this volume focuses on practical handouts and worksheets rather than extended clinical theory or treatment protocols.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Practical layout makes it simple to distribute materials during group or individual sessions.
• Worksheets are focused on applying skills, which supports client learning and homework between sessions.
• Organization by skill area saves time when selecting exercises for a particular clinical target.

Cons

• The book is a collection of handouts and does not replace a full DBT treatment manual for clinicians needing in-depth guidance.

Specifications

Title	DBT Skills Training Handouts and Worksheets, Second Edition
Author	Marsha M. Linehan (Author)
Edition	Second Edition
Format	Handouts and worksheets collection (print-ready)
Primary use	DBT skills training and client worksheets
Category	Books; Medicine & Health Sciences

Our Verdict

DBT Skills Training Handouts and Worksheets, Second Edition is a solid, cost-effective resource for clinicians who need printable, well-organized materials to teach DBT skills. It is best purchased as a practical toolkit rather than a theoretical text, offering good value by streamlining session preparation and supporting client practice between meetings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the materials ready to photocopy for clients?
Yes. The collection is presented as handouts and worksheets designed for printing or photocopying for immediate clinical use.

Is this a full DBT treatment manual?
No. It is a compilation of skills handouts and worksheets and does not replace a comprehensive therapist manual or extensive theoretical discussion.

Who authored the book?
The handouts and worksheets are by Marsha M. Linehan, the developer of Dialectical Behavior Therapy.