In Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), building mastery means participating in challenging activities daily while gradually increasing their difficulty level. This principle stresses the importance of taking action, which may lead to feelings of competence and accomplishment.
The DBT Building Mastery Worksheet features two different worksheet activities where clients can explore the skill set they would like to improve, and brainstorm steps to build mastery in the direction of their chosen activity. In one of the worksheets, they can practice committing to a planned activity each day of the week. In the second, they can explore activities that support the building mastery skill, such as getting out of their comfort zone, coping ahead when they feel like quitting, and giving themselves credit as they pursue their goals.
Using these worksheets helps kids and teens appreciate and find a balance between challenges and accomplishments. After they complete both worksheets, you can spend some time together trying one of the hobbies they identified. While engaging in the hobby, emphasize breaking it down into smaller, more manageable steps.
Our Building Mastery DBT Skill handout is a helpful visual aid to attach to these worksheets for further engagement in the skill.
*This item is an instant digital download. A link to download your files will be emailed to you once payment is confirmed.
Want more resources like this? Check out our full catalog of DBT worksheets and handouts.
References:
- Correa, J. K. (2020). Effects of emotion regulation skills training on worry and emotional distress tolerance: A multiple baseline single-case experimental design (Doctoral dissertation).
- Emelianchik-Key, K., Labarta, A., & Glass, B. (2022). Infusing dialectical behavior therapy skills into supervision to address challenges and enhance performance. Journal of Creativity in Mental Health, 17(3), 394-409.
- Mazza, J. J., Dexter-Mazza, E. T., Miller, A. L., Rathus, J. H., & Murphy, H. E. (2016). DBT? skills in schools: Skills Training for Emotional Problem Solving for Adolescents Dbt Steps-a. Guilford Publications.
