Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based treatment that helps individuals manage emotions, navigate relationships, and build a life worth living. A key component of DBT is coaching calls, which provide clients with real-time support in applying DBT skills to everyday challenges.
What Are DBT Coaching Calls?
DBT coaching calls are brief, solution-focused phone interactions between a client and their therapist. These calls serve as on-the-spot support to help clients use DBT skills effectively rather than engaging in unhelpful behaviors.
Key Features of DBT Coaching Calls:
- 📞 Short & Focused – Typically lasting 5-15 minutes, these calls are not full therapy sessions.
- ⏳ Skill-Based Assistance – The goal is to identify and apply DBT skills to real-life situations.
- 🚫 Crisis Prevention – Calls help clients manage distress before it escalates into self-destructive behavior.
- 📅 Between-Session Support – Clients receive guidance outside of scheduled therapy to reinforce skill use.
- 🛠 Empowerment Over Dependence – Therapists encourage self-efficacy by guiding clients to problem-solve rather than offering direct solutions.
When to Use a DBT Coaching Call
Clients are encouraged to use coaching calls before a crisis escalates rather than after. Ideal situations for coaching calls include:
✅ Feeling overwhelmed and needing help selecting a DBT skill
✅ Struggling to manage intense emotions (anger, sadness, anxiety, etc.)
✅ Facing interpersonal challenges and needing guidance on effective communication
✅ Experiencing urges for self-harm, substance use, or other destructive behaviors
✅ Needing help to generalize DBT skills from therapy to real life
How to Make a DBT Coaching Call Effective
To make the most of a coaching call, clients should:
📋 Prepare a Worksheet – Identify the problem, emotions, and possible DBT skills to use.
🎯 Be Concise & Specific – Focus on the situation at hand and what skills are needed.
🛠 Be Willing to Try Skills – The therapist will guide, but the client must practice the skill.
🔄 Reflect & Follow Up – Review how the skill worked and discuss adjustments if needed.
Why a DBT Coaching Worksheet Helps
Using a DBT Coaching Call Worksheet provides structure and improves the effectiveness of the call. It helps clients:
✅ Organize their thoughts before calling
✅ Clearly communicate their distress and needs
✅ Actively engage in problem-solving rather than seeking reassurance
✅ Track skill use and personal progress over time
Final Thoughts
DBT coaching calls are a powerful tool that supports clients in applying DBT skills when they need them most. When used effectively, they foster independence, confidence, and long-term emotional resilience.
🔹 If you’re in DBT, remember: Your therapist is here to guide you, but you have the power to change your life—one skill at a time.
Check out our Coaching Calls Worksheet below!