The DBT House is a framework in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) that allows clients to explore their inner world. This “inner world” — which includes their values, emotions, hopes, and coping strategies — is represented by a specific room or level of their metaphorical house.
The DBT House Worksheet is an art-based activity that features two drawings of a house, and both houses have different sections or rooms. One drawing asks questions that serve as prompts for the client to explore an aspect of their life, while the other drawing lets them write down their answers. For example, the question “What values govern your life?” in the foundation of their DBT house might be answered with “courage and authenticity.”
As kids and teens complete this activity, they can increase their self-awareness, which leads to improved emotional regulation and healthier relationships. If your child needs help identifying coping strategies for the chimney of their DBT house, this DBT Coping Skills bundle will give them ideas.
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Want more resources like this? Check out our full catalog of DBT worksheets and handouts.
References:
- Bosgraaf, L., Spreen, M., Pattiselanno, K., & Van Hooren, S. (2020). Art Therapy for Psychosocial Problems in Children and Adolescents: A Systematic narrative review on art therapeutic means and forms of Expression, therapist behavior, and Supposed Mechanisms of change. Frontiers in Psychology, 11. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2020.584685
- Jerabek, I., Muoio, D. (2021). I Think, Therefore I Am…Loved: New Study Looks At Benefits of Self-Awareness on Relationship Satisfaction. ResearchGate.
