DBT Skills Training Handouts and Worksheets - Second Edition Book

In this review of the DBT Skills Training Handouts and Worksheets, Second Edition, the reviewer finds a focused, practical companion for clinicians and students working with dialectical behavior therapy. The book compiles reproducible handouts and worksheets designed to support skills training and homework, and its single biggest reason to buy is the ready-to-use format that saves preparation time while reinforcing core DBT skills in clinical and educational settings.

Key Features

• Reproducible handouts: The layout provides ready-to-copy sheets that make it easy to assign homework and practice exercises between sessions.
• Comprehensive worksheet coverage: Includes worksheets that address core DBT modules so clinicians can cover mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness.
• Clinician-friendly organization: Material is arranged for quick reference during sessions, reducing time spent searching for relevant tools.
• Educational utility: Useful for training programs and classroom settings where students need concrete practice materials.
• Edition updates: The second edition incorporates refinements that reflect standard DBT practice, helping users apply current techniques.

Who It's For

The book is best for mental health professionals, DBT trainees, and graduate students who need a practical set of handouts to use with clients or in training. It particularly suits clinicians who value structured, printable materials they can hand to clients or adapt for group skills training.

Those who should look elsewhere include readers seeking an introductory explanation of DBT theory or a full treatment manual; this volume is a tools and worksheets companion rather than a standalone textbook on DBT theory or Marsha M. Linehan's clinical model.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Practical, reproducible worksheets that reduce clinician preparation time.
• Covers the main DBT skills modules so it supports a broad range of interventions.
• Organized format that works well in group and individual therapy settings.

Cons

• Not a substitute for a full DBT treatment manual or in-depth theory explanation.
• Some users may prefer digital, editable files rather than printed handouts.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The DBT Skills Training Handouts and Worksheets, Second Edition is a practical, time-saving resource for clinicians and trainees who need ready-to-use materials to reinforce DBT skills. While it does not replace a full treatment manual, it delivers clear value for therapists running skills groups or assigning structured homework.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this book include worksheets for all DBT modules?
Yes. The collection addresses core DBT modules such as mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness.

Is this a standalone treatment manual?
No. It is a companion of handouts and worksheets meant to be used alongside DBT training or a primary treatment manual.

Who is the author?
The book is authored by Marsha M. Linehan, the developer of the DBT approach.