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August 3, 2025

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy

Introduction to DBT & Emotional Awareness

This short course offers a practical introduction to Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), a skills-based approach for managing emotions, improving relationships, and coping with distress. Across six concise video lectures, students will learn the core DBT modules: Mindfulness, Emotion Regulation, Distress Tolerance, and Interpersonal Effectiveness. The course includes real-life examples, skill-building strategies, and self-reflection tools to apply DBT principles in everyday situations.

What Will I Learn?

  • Students will understand what DBT is, who it helps, and the importance of balancing acceptance with change.
  • They’ll be introduced to DBT’s four core skill areas and begin building emotional awareness.

Course Content

Introduction to DBT
The first DBT lecture begins with a check-in activity where students share one emotion they felt today, promoting emotional awareness. DBT is introduced as a therapy for intense emotions, combining CBT with mindfulness and acceptance. Developed by Dr. Marsha Linehan, it helps with issues like BPD, anxiety, PTSD, and self-harm. The term “dialectical” means balancing two truths at once, such as accepting yourself while aiming for change. Students are also introduced to DBT’s four core skills: mindfulness, emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness.

  • Introduction to DBT
  • Quiz 1: Introduction to DBT

Lecture 2: Core Concepts and Skills Introduction
Slides 6 to 10 introduce key DBT concepts and early skills. Students learn that DBT is built on core assumptions like “you are doing the best you can” and “you are responsible for solving your problems,” balancing acceptance with motivation for change. Homework includes reflecting on emotional events and practicing daily mindfulness. Chain analysis is introduced as a tool to understand what triggers emotional reactions and behaviors. Mindfulness is taught through observing, describing, and participating in the moment. Finally, distress tolerance skills such as the STOP and TIP techniques help manage crises without making situations worse.

Lecture 3: Chain Analysis
In this part of the lecture, students are introduced to Chain Analysis, a key DBT strategy for understanding emotional and behavioral patterns. It teaches how to trace a problem behavior back to its trigger, explore the thoughts and emotions in between, and examine the outcome. This step-by-step breakdown helps individuals gain insight into why they react the way they do and how they can change their responses in the future.

Lecture 4: DBT in daily life
Slides 16 to 20 expand DBT’s application beyond core skills. Students learn the importance of self-compassion for emotional healing and reducing self-criticism. DBT skills are then applied to relationships, enhancing empathy, communication, and boundary-setting. In the workplace, DBT helps manage stress and improve emotional regulation. The session also introduces DBT for trauma, focusing on safety, trust, and coping strategies. Finally, students explore troubleshooting, learning why skills may fail and how to adjust, re-practice, and seek support when needed.

Lecture 5: Application of DBT
The lecture concludes with a deeper look at how DBT promotes emotional healing and growth. Slide 26 summarizes DBT’s impact—helping individuals manage emotions, tolerate distress, and improve relationships. Slide 27 highlights DBT’s broad effectiveness for conditions like BPD, anxiety, depression, and trauma. Slide 28 encourages students to continue their DBT journey by applying skills in daily life. Slide 29 offers resources such as books and websites for further learning. Finally, Slide 30 closes with a note of encouragement, reminding students that growth is possible with practice, self-awareness, and support.

About the instructor

Iqra Jehanzeb

Instructor

<p>Hi, I’m Iqra Jehanzeb. I teach psychology, and I love breaking down complex ideas into simple, relatable lessons. My goal is to make learning interactive and practical so you can actually use psychology in real life—not just in textbooks. I believe in connecting theory with everyday experiences, and I’m excited to explore the subject with you.</p>
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Durations: 1 hour 45 minutes
Lectures: 5
Students: Max 20
Level: Intermediate
Language:
Certificate:

Material Includes

  • PPT
  • Cards for self reflection
  • Diary Card

Requirements

  • Students can maintain a weekly DBT journal, complete emotion tracking, and practice one skill daily. They may also reflect on a case study, apply skills in real life, or write a short final reflection on personal growth.
  • Students can maintain a weekly DBT journal, complete emotion tracking, and practice one skill daily. They may also reflect on a case study, apply skills in real life, or write a short final reflection on personal growth.
  • Students can maintain a weekly DBT journal, complete emotion tracking, and practice one skill daily. They may also reflect on a case study, apply skills in real life, or write a short final reflection on personal growth.

Audience

  • Students and young adults struggling with stress, anxiety, or emotional ups and downs.
  • Individuals with emotional regulation difficulties, such as those diagnosed with BPD, PTSD, or depression.
  • Counseling or psychology students seeking to learn practical therapeutic skills.
  • Anyone interested in personal growth through mindfulness, self-control, and better communication.