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DBT worksheet export
Emotion Regulation Troubleshooting
When skills aren’t working, diagnose the breakdown—vulnerability, skill choice, intensity, follow-through—and decide next steps.
What this worksheet is for
When skills aren’t working, diagnose the breakdown—vulnerability, skill choice, intensity, follow-through—and decide next steps.
How to use it
- Read the full skill once before writing.
- Use the examples below to spot where it fits real life.
- Complete the reflection page using the answers you already typed or by writing directly on the PDF.
At a glance
Primary topic: emotion regulation troubleshooting worksheet
Worksheet type: Support worksheet
How to practice it
Define the Scenario
Summarize the emotion episode you’re reviewing and the skill(s) you attempted.
Check Vulnerabilities
Note PLEASE factors, sleep, substances, or stressors that made regulation harder.
Skill Fit & Timing
Evaluate whether the skill matched the emotion (e.g., problem solving vs. opposite action) and whether you used it early enough.
Skill Execution
Rate how fully you applied the skill (0–10). Identify partial efforts or missing steps.
New Plan
Decide what to adjust—prep earlier, add TIP, combine skills, seek support—and schedule practice.
Real-world examples
Troubleshooting Example
Scenario: anger outburst after email. Vulnerabilities: slept 4 hrs. Skill used: Check the Facts (too late). Execution: 3/10. Plan: prioritize sleep, use TIP first, then Check the Facts + DEAR MAN within 30 minutes.
Before you write
Pick one situation you are actually likely to face this week. The activity page works best when you complete it for a real moment instead of a hypothetical one.
Worksheet activity
Practice Activity
Analyze two difficult episodes. Implement the revised plan and note changes in intensity next time.
Reflect and write
What vulnerability contributed most?
Was the skill choice the best match?
How can you execute more fully next time?
What support or reminder will help you follow through?