DBT Next Steps Clinician's Manual

“As a DBT clinician, supervisor, and trainer, I find DBT Next Steps Clinician's Manual to be one of the most immediately applicable treatment manuals I have read in years. There are numerous tools that I can instantly use with my clients. Differentially applying GIVE skills in work and social situations, improving time management on daily tasks, challenging perfectionistic thinking and behaviors, and integrating more positive reinforcement are just a few of the critical components of DBT Next Steps. The manual has clear lesson plans and examples, in-session practice exercises, and assignments to help clients practice and generalize their skills. I will highly recommend this manual and the companion client resource to everyone I train and supervise. Next Steps can be woven into a current DBT program or applied as a freestanding treatment, depending on the client's level of functioning and the skills already acquired.”

—Alec L. Miller, PsyD, Cofounder, Cognitive and Behavioral Consultants, White Plains and New York City


“This is what DBT therapists have been clamoring for! DBT Next Steps Clinician's Manual provides invaluable insights and practical tools for therapists to help clients overcome barriers to building full and satisfying lives once the crises have stopped. Whether you treat psychiatrically and financially disadvantaged persons or those who struggle with other barriers to self-sufficiency, this is the manual for you.”

—Kathryn E. Korslund, PhD, ABPP, Director of Clinical Care, Two Chairs


“Together, DBT Next Steps Clinician's Manual and DBT Next Steps Skills Handouts are a labor of love that is designed to help build up lives. The beautifully clear, in-depth manual expertly guides clinicians through key teaching points, and includes abundant case examples that bring the teachings to life. The client handouts and assignments break down complicated concepts in a user-friendly style that fosters everyday application of the Next Steps skills.”

—Janice R. Kuo, PhD, Department of Psychology, Palo Alto University


“The focus of DBT Next Steps on getting me out of the mental health system has been a complete success. I pay my own bills, live by myself in my own apartment, and have been for two years! I went from not knowing whether I’d see my next birthday to looking forward to every week as an opportunity to connect with people and live a life I’m proud of.”

—Francis C.


“DBT Next Steps was revolutionary for me. Although being in DBT helped bring me out of crisis, I knew it was DBT Next Steps that would help me gain the traction I needed to build a life worth living. The program taught me so much about finding and respecting my own limits while also pushing me to live a full and effective life. Years out of the program, I continue to visit the skills from it daily. I am so grateful for the growth and stability DBT Next Steps has brought into my life.”

—Lou D.


“I was lucky enough to do a year of Next Steps after a first year of DBT. It helped me refine my ambitions, accomplish the goals that were most important to me, and feel like I was living a worthwhile life. Because of this program I was able to finish grad school after a lengthy medical leave—there's no way I would have had the skills to do that without Next Steps. Several years later, I still refer back to the materials. I recommend DBT Next Steps to anyone who is surviving their life but not thriving yet.”

—Alice Z.