Changing Behavior in DBT: Problem Solving in Action is a masterfully written and deeply informative guide that explores one of the most essential and practical aspects of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)—problem solving. Authored by two of the most respected DBT trainers, Heidi L. Heard and Michaela A. Swales, this book provides clinicians with a clear, structured, and actionable roadmap for applying DBT’s core principles of behavioral change.
The authors skillfully bridge the gap between theory and practice, using vivid case examples to illustrate how therapists can effectively analyze and address problematic behaviors such as suicide attempts, self-harm, or disordered eating. They walk readers through each stage of the behavioral analysis process, offering insight into common challenges clinicians face when selecting and implementing solutions.
One of the book’s greatest strengths lies in its detailed discussion of DBT problem-solving strategies—including skills training, stimulus control, exposure, cognitive restructuring, and contingency management. The guidance is not only evidence-based but also deeply practical, enabling therapists to better understand the function of a behavior and to design interventions that promote lasting change.
Heard and Swales’ writing is both scholarly and accessible, making the text valuable for both seasoned DBT practitioners and those newly trained in the approach. The inclusion of a foreword by Marsha M. Linehan, the founder of DBT, adds authority and context to the book’s importance within the field of psychotherapy.
Overall, Changing Behavior in DBT: Problem Solving in Action is an indispensable resource for mental health professionals who wish to refine their clinical skills, enhance treatment outcomes, and better support clients in achieving behavioral transformation. It captures the heart of DBT—balancing acceptance and change—with clarity, compassion, and precision.
Author: Heidi L. Heard and Michaela A. Swales
GET YOUR COPY: Changing Behavior in DBT