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Counseling & TherapyEvidence-Based Modalities
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Explore a curated collection of free resources on Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) tailored for educators, students, and parents. Unlock practical tools to teach emotional regulation, mindfulness, and effective communication through engaging lessons, real-world scenarios, and interactive activities. Gain actionable strategies to support well-being and foster resilience in everyday life.

Suggested Resources

Community Resources

Community Resources

CBT for Kids: Thoughts, Feelings, and Behaviors

This lesson is designed for 1st to 3rd grade students with special needs and behavior challenges. The objective is to engage students in a fun, collaborative, and hands-on activity that helps them understand the connection between helpful and unhelpful thoughts and their feelings and behaviors using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) principles. The lesson is designed to be completed in 15 minutes.

Tier 2
2/25
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Kristen LaRosa

D

AZ Counselor

Mindful Balance

A 30-minute individualized session introducing 7th graders to Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills, focusing on mindfulness and emotion regulation. This session helps students develop tools to manage intense emotions and improve coping strategies. Tier 3 support for students needing personalized emotional health instruction.

Tier 3
5/29
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shawkins

S

MA Social Worker

Emotion Regulation Adventure

This lesson introduces 3rd-grade students to the concept of emotion regulation using Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) techniques. Through a fun and interactive game, students will learn to identify and manage their emotions effectively. The lesson also includes a short video to reinforce the concepts. This lesson is important as it equips students with essential skills to handle their emotions, promoting mental well-being and positive interactions with peers.

Tier 1
2/25
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Christina Wong

S

MA Counselor

Mastering DBT Basics

A four-session individualized DBT skills intervention for a 10th-grade student struggling with self-regulation. These 30-minute sessions guide the student through foundational mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness techniques to build coping skills and resilience.

Tier 3
5/22
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cfair

S

MA Counselor

DBT Skills Bootcamp

In this 6-session group intervention, students will learn core DBT skills—mindfulness, emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness—to better manage behaviors and emotions. Designed for small groups (3–6 students) who need extra support, each 40-minute session includes a lesson plan, guided discussion, engaging activity, a worksheet, and accompanying videos to reinforce learning.

Tier 2
5/19
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Briana Wiley

S

MA Counselor

Superhero Conflict Resolvers: Using DBT Skills to Save the Day

In this engaging 30-minute session, three 2nd graders will learn Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills to effectively resolve conflicts. This lesson is important as it empowers young students with essential life skills to manage emotions and navigate social situations, fostering a harmonious classroom environment.

Tier 2
2/26

Stacie Browne-Gallagher

h

NY Counselor, Psychologist, General Education Teacher, Special Education Teacher, Social Worker, Behavior Interventionist, School Administrator

CBT Triangle and Brain Connection

This lesson introduces 4th-grade students to the CBT triangle, which connects thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and its relationship with brain function. Through engaging activities, students will learn how their thoughts can influence their emotions and actions. This lesson is important as it empowers students with self-awareness and emotional regulation skills, fostering resilience and mental well-being.

Tier 1
2/25
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James Kelliher

t

VT Counselor

Understanding CBT: Thoughts, Feelings, Actions

This lesson introduces students to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), focusing on the interplay between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Students will explore how these elements influence each other and learn practical strategies to manage stress and anxiety. This lesson is crucial for developing self-awareness and emotional regulation skills, which are essential for mental well-being and academic success.

Tier 1
2/25

Deb Schmill

h

NY Instructor

Color Your Feelings

This lesson is designed to help a 3rd-grade student with emotional disturbance learn coping skills for managing anxiety. Through a creative and experiential approach, the student will use a coloring worksheet to identify and express where they feel emotions in their body. This activity is important as it provides a non-verbal way for the student to connect with their emotions, fostering self-awareness and emotional regulation.

Tier 3
2/25

Ryan Holt Ph.D.

E

CA Psychologist

Emotion Wheel Dive

In this 30-minute Tier 3 individual session for an 11th grade student, learners will explore DBT emotion regulation skills to recognize, label, and manage intense feelings using the emotion wheel. This targeted coaching session provides evidence-based strategies to build self-awareness and emotional resilience.

Tier 3
Tuesday

Maricela

O

IN Social Worker

Counseling Corner

A one-on-one counseling session for 5th graders focused on identifying emotions and learning coping strategies. This Tier 3 individualized lesson empowers students to understand their feelings and practice tools for emotional regulation within 30 minutes.

Tier 3
5/13
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Abby Downing

S

MA Counselor

Introduction to CBT: Understanding Thoughts and Feelings

This lesson serves as an introduction to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for middle school students. It aims to help students understand the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Through discussion, group activities, and a CBT exercise, students will learn how to identify and challenge negative thoughts. This foundational lesson is important as it equips students with basic CBT skills that can be built upon in future sessions.

Tier 1
2/25
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Jessica Handley

p

TN Instructor

Mind Over Mood

This lesson introduces 6th graders to the basics of the Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) framework, focusing on understanding thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. This foundational knowledge is crucial for developing emotional intelligence and resilience, helping students manage their emotions and reactions in everyday situations. The lesson is designed for a single 15-minute session and includes engaging activities and a game to reinforce learning.

Tier 1
5/7
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Thomas Nikiper

S

MA Counselor

Counselor's Toolbox: Skills for Success

This lesson introduces 5th-grade students to essential skills and tools used by school counselors, focusing on problem-solving and effective communication. These skills are crucial for students' personal and academic success, helping them navigate challenges and build strong relationships.

Tier 1
2/25

Glenda Glenn

a

NC Counselor

Managing Anger Positively

This lesson focuses on teaching 4th-grade students effective anger management techniques. Through a combination of video, discussion, and a worksheet, students will learn to recognize their anger and apply coping strategies. This lesson is crucial for helping students develop emotional regulation skills, which are essential for their social and academic success.

Tier 1
2/25
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BOB ALLAIN

a

NC Counselor

Counselor Bingo

In this engaging lesson, students will get to know their school counselor through a fun and interactive Bingo game. This activity helps students understand the counselor's role and feel comfortable approaching them for support. It also encourages listening skills and provides a platform for questions and discussions.

Tier 1
2/25
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Vanessa Duckett

q

TX Counselor

Emotional Regulation Skills

This counseling session is designed to help a 5th-grade student learn and practice emotional regulation skills. By focusing on coping strategies such as deep breathing, positive self-talk, and visualization, the student will gain tools to manage emotions effectively. These skills are crucial for personal development and can enhance the student's ability to handle stress and emotional challenges.

Tier 3
2/25

Hollie Overholt

E

CA Counselor

Unmasking Cognitive Distortions

This 5-session lesson for 8th graders focuses on identifying and challenging cognitive distortions, which are irrational thought patterns that can negatively impact mental health. Through interactive activities and discussions, students will learn to recognize these distortions in their own thinking and develop healthier cognitive habits, empowering them to improve their emotional well-being.

Tier 1
4/19
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Nancy Love

T

MD Instructor

Coping Strategies for Depersonalization

This lesson plan is designed to help a 9th-grade girl with Depersonalization and Derealization Disorder (DDD) develop effective coping strategies. Through a series of three 30-minute sessions, the student will engage in activities, readings, and worksheets that focus on understanding her symptoms and learning practical techniques to manage them. This lesson is important as it empowers the student with tools to navigate her experiences, fostering resilience and emotional well-being.

Tier 3
2/25
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Tessa Speaks

S

MA Counselor

Coping Strategies for Depersonalization

This lesson plan is designed to help a 9th-grade girl with Depersonalization and Derealization Disorder (DDD) develop effective coping strategies. Through a series of three 30-minute sessions, the student will engage in activities, readings, and worksheets that focus on understanding her symptoms and learning practical techniques to manage them. This lesson is important as it empowers the student with tools to navigate her experiences, fostering resilience and emotional well-being.

Tier 3
2/25
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Daniel Simone

S

MA Counselor, Social Worker

Hidden Assumptions

An individualized CBT session guiding an 11th grade student through identifying and disputing core beliefs using targeted reading, worksheets, and reflection. This Tier 3 lesson deepens self-awareness and equips the student with practical CBT strategies in a single 55-minute session.

Tier 3
5/8
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Joanna Torres

E

CA Social Worker

Transforming Thoughts: Positive Self-Talk

This 5-session lesson is designed for a 3rd grade student on an IEP, focusing on identifying negative and positive self-talk, understanding coping strategies, and exploring cognitive behavioral triangle connections. Each 20-minute session will empower the student with practical skills to transform negative thoughts into positive ones, enhancing their emotional well-being and resilience.

Tier 3
4/15
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Lindsey Jordan

Instructor

Coping with Divorce: 10-Lesson Series

This 10-lesson series aims to help middle school students understand and cope with the emotional impact of divorce. Each lesson focuses on a different aspect of coping, such as emotional awareness, communication skills, and building resilience. By using trauma-informed teaching strategies, students will engage in collaborative learning and restorative practices to explore their feelings and develop healthy coping mechanisms. This series is crucial as it provides a safe space for students to express their emotions and learn strategies to manage them effectively.

Tier 1
2/25
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Jacqueline Lynch

D

AZ Counselor

Quiet Courage

In this 15-minute one-on-one session, a 12th-grade student will learn personalized coping strategies to manage cafeteria noise and feelings of rejection sensitivity dysphoria. This lesson helps build self-awareness and resilience through mindfulness, self-advocacy, and practical tools for real-life challenges.

Tier 3
Wednesday

EmmA

i

OH General Education Teacher

Walk in My Shoes

A 4-session, 30-minute individual intervention for a 7th grade girl focusing on perspective taking, positive peer relations, and core DBT skills. Using engaging videos and hands-on practice, this series builds empathy and social skills while teaching emotional regulation strategies.

Tier 3
Yesterday
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shawkins

S

MA Social Worker

Anxiety Busters: Coping Skills Workshop

This lesson plan is designed to help students in grades 2-5 identify their personal triggers for anxiety and develop effective coping skills. Through a series of eight 30-minute sessions, students will engage in experiential and game-based learning activities, discussions, and collaborative exercises. This lesson is important as it empowers students with the tools to manage anxiety, promoting emotional well-being and resilience.

Tier 1
2/25
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Melissa Avery

D

AZ Counselor

Crisis Toolkit

A small-group program offering targeted tools and strategies for students who need extra support in de-escalating emotions during crisis moments. This 30-minute Tier 2 (group) session for 7th graders helps them identify triggers, practice de-escalation skills, and create personalized safety plans.

Tier 2
5/7
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Art Fergusson

Instructor

Express Yourself Creatively

This lesson uses art, games, and mindfulness to help an 8th-grade student learn to manage impulsive behaviors and attention-seeking actions. Through creative expression, interactive activities, and calming techniques, the student will explore self-regulation strategies. This lesson is important as it provides a safe space for the student to practice self-control and express emotions constructively.

Tier 3
2/25

Erica Carlos

E

CA Psychologist

Radical Acceptance?

A focused 30-minute individual counseling session introducing 6th graders to the DBT skill of radical acceptance, helping them learn to relieve distress by embracing reality. This lesson gives students practical strategies for coping with difficult emotions, guiding them through acceptance exercises, role-play, and reflection to make the skill stick.

Tier 3
5/13
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kstlawrence

Social Worker

Mindful Minutes

In this 30-minute Tier 1 lesson for 6th graders, students will learn a core Dialectical Behavioral Therapy skill—mindfulness—through an engaging video and hands-on practice. This lesson helps students develop emotional awareness and stress-management strategies they can use in daily life.

Tier 1
5/19
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Briana Wiley

S

MA Counselor

Coping Strategies Exploration

This lesson is designed for a one-on-one counseling session with a 4th-grade student. The focus is on helping the student identify five coping strategies they can use when experiencing heightened emotions. This lesson is important as it equips the student with practical tools to manage their emotions, promoting emotional regulation and resilience.

Tier 3
2/25
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Gianna Akerberg

S

MA Counselor, Social Worker

Mindset Over Mood

Students will explore how their thoughts shape emotions and learn mindfulness and cognitive techniques to manage moods. This helps build self-awareness, emotional regulation, and resilience. Audience: Grades 6–8; 1 session, 50 minutes.

Tier 1
5/19
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Emma Gebhard

S

MA Social Worker, Counselor

Coping Superpowers

In this 15-minute individualized session, a 3rd grader will learn to identify feelings of sadness and anger and practice simple, effective coping strategies. This worksheet equips him with a personalized ‘toolbox’ of coping skills to handle big emotions, fostering self-regulation and resilience.

Tier 3
5/14
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Meridith Henry

I

FL Counselor, Social Worker

Calm and Collected: Coping Skills

This lesson introduces 5th grade students to coping skills for managing anxiety through active and collaborative learning. Students will engage in a project-based activity to explore different coping strategies, participate in a discussion to share personal experiences, and complete a worksheet to reinforce their understanding. This lesson is important as it equips students with practical tools to handle anxiety, promoting emotional well-being and resilience.

Tier 1
2/25
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Sara Townes

S

MA Social Worker

Building Bridges: Confident Connections for Social Success

This four-session lesson is designed for an 8th-grade girl with social anxiety, aiming to help her build confidence and security in her relationships. Through personalized activities and guided discussions, the student will learn strategies to manage anxiety and foster meaningful connections. Each session lasts 25 minutes and includes a lesson plan, slide deck, activity, and video to support learning.

Tier 3
3/25
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Darcy Lord-Evans

a

NC Counselor

Coping Strategies Workshop

This lesson introduces 10th grade students to effective coping strategies through active learning. Students will engage in a discussion to explore different coping mechanisms and participate in an activity to practice these strategies. This lesson is important as it equips students with tools to manage stress and emotions, promoting mental well-being and resilience.

Tier 1
2/25

Michelle Schneider

E

CA Psychologist

Counselor Meet and Greet Bingo

This lesson involves an interactive bingo game designed to help students learn interesting facts about their counselor while also sharing about themselves. This session fosters a friendly and approachable image of the counselor, helping students feel more comfortable seeking guidance and support. By engaging in this activity, students will develop communication skills and build a sense of community within the classroom.

Tier 1
2/25
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Robert Conceison

S

MA Counselor

Tolerating Tough Moments

In this 60-minute IOP group session, adult participants will learn and practice distress tolerance skills grounded in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). This lesson helps participants manage intense emotions effectively and prevent impulsive reactions. Includes guided discussion, interactive activity, and practical worksheet.

Tier 2
5/27

rachel

i

OH Counselor, Parent, Social Worker

Artful Anxiety Busters - Individual Session

This individual session uses art and personal reflection to help an 8th-grade student reduce anxiety. Through a creative activity and guided self-reflection, the student will explore ways to manage their feelings and develop coping strategies. This session is important as it provides the student with practical tools to handle stress, enhancing their emotional well-being and academic performance.

Tier 3
2/25

Erica Carlos

E

CA Psychologist

Opposite Action Adventure

In this lesson, students will learn about the concept of 'opposite action' from Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) through a fun and interactive activity. This lesson is important as it helps students understand how to manage their emotions and reactions in a healthy way, promoting emotional regulation and resilience. By engaging in a project-based learning activity, students will explore real-life scenarios where they can apply opposite action, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Tier 1
2/25
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Christina Wong

S

MA Counselor

Resilience Toolkit

This individualized support guide equips a 7th grade student with personalized coping strategies and crisis response steps to build resilience and emotional regulation. Through targeted coaching and self-reflection activities in one 20-minute session, the student will develop a practical toolkit for managing stress and anxiety

Tier 3
5/19
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Allison Thibodaux-Wing

E

CA Psychologist

Coping Skills Workshop

This lesson introduces students to essential coping skills through an interactive activity and reflection. Students will learn practical strategies to manage stress and emotions, which are crucial for their social-emotional development. By the end of the lesson, students will have a toolkit of coping mechanisms they can apply in various situations.

Tier 1
2/25
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Lily Reed

S

MA Instructor

Behavior Blueprint

An individualized tool for students to map triggers and coping strategies, fostering self-awareness and personal growth for a 4th grader in a 30-minute Tier 3 session

Tier 3
5/22
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Ashley Acosta

q

TX Social Worker

Feelings Firefighters

In this 15-minute SEL session, Pre-K students learn basic DBT skills—mindfulness, distress tolerance, and emotion regulation—through playful firefighter-themed activities. This engaging lesson helps kids recognize and "extinguish" big feelings, laying the foundation for healthy emotional awareness and self-control.

Tier 1
5/28
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Destony Stewart

h

NY School Administrator

Mindful Moments

This lesson aims to help 9th grade female students reduce symptoms of OCD through trauma-informed teaching strategies. By focusing on mindfulness and self-awareness, students will learn techniques to manage their symptoms, allowing them to better access classroom instruction. This lesson is important as it empowers students with tools to improve their mental health and academic performance.

Tier 2
2/25
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Nicole Camp

S

MA Psychologist