In DBT, what should be done if a client shows signs of distress during a skills training session?

In Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), it is essential to prioritize the client's emotional well-being, especially during skills training sessions. When a client shows signs of distress, pausing the session to address their concerns is necessary to provide support and validate their feelings. This approach aligns with the core DBT principle of balancing acceptance and change. By acknowledging the client's distress, the therapist helps them feel heard and understood, which can be crucial for their therapeutic process.

In this moment, addressing the client's concerns effectively enables them to use the skills they are learning in a more meaningful way, as they are able to manage their emotional state rather than having it interfere with their ability to participate in the training. This focus on the therapeutic relationship and the client's immediate needs fosters a supportive environment that can enhance their learning experience.

Ignoring the distress would not only be unhelpful but could also further exacerbate the client's feelings of disconnection or invalidation. Continuing with the module content without addressing the client's emotions would disregard the principles of empathy and validation that are central to DBT. Referring them to another counselor might create a sense of abandonment or could be misinterpreted by the client as their distress being unmanageable or unwelcome, which can be detrimental to their trust