As part of our commitment to fostering mental wellness and resilience in young people, PASS is proud to bring DBT Skills Training for Emotional Problem Solving for Adolescents (DBT STEPS-A) to schools across Allen, Auglaize, Hardin, Champaign, Logan, and Union Counties. This program offers an evidence-based approach to social-emotional learning (SEL) that equips students with the tools they need to navigate life’s challenges successfully.
What is DBT STEPS-A?
DBT STEPS-A, developed by Dr. Mazza, Dr. Dexter-Mazza, and colleagues, is a comprehensive social-emotional learning curriculum adapted from Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Originally designed by Dr. Marsha Linehan, DBT is a well-established therapeutic method that has shown tremendous success in helping individuals regulate emotions, make thoughtful decisions, and solve problems effectively.
This curriculum, tailored specifically for middle and high school students (Grades 6–12), is a universal suicide prevention program that teaches essential skills for emotion regulation, decision-making, and interpersonal effectiveness. Delivered over the course of 30 engaging 50-minute lessons, DBT STEPS-A can be seamlessly integrated within general education settings, making it accessible to students at every level of need. Each lesson is designed to promote understanding and mastery of core DBT skills:
Orientation & Goal Setting: Helping students define personal goals and align their efforts with positive outcomes.
Dialectical Thinking: Encouraging students to see issues from multiple perspectives to better navigate complex social situations.
Core Mindfulness Skills: Teaching students to be present and focused, reducing stress and increasing awareness.
Distress Tolerance Skills: Building resilience by preparing students to handle stressful situations without feeling overwhelmed.
Emotion Regulation Skills: Helping students understand and manage their emotions in constructive ways.
Interpersonal Effectiveness Skills: Strengthening communication and relationship skills, which are crucial for healthy social interactions.
The Impact of DBT STEPS-A on Mental Wellness
At PASS, we see DBT STEPS-A as more than just an SEL program—it’s an investment in the long-term mental health and well-being of our communities. By equipping students with skills to manage their emotions, make sound decisions, and foster healthy relationships, DBT STEPS-A empowers young people to become more resilient and self-aware, ultimately reducing the risk of mental health challenges and promoting lifelong wellness.
If you are an educator or parent interested in learning more about how DBT STEPS-A can make a difference in your school or community, please reach out to PASS. Together, we can create a supportive, empowered environment for all young people to thrive.
👏