Pause and notice
Explore mindfulness and the space it creates to observe your experience before responding.
The Behaviour Institute · Online diploma
Diploma in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)
Build understanding. Develop emotional awareness. Explore the balance between acceptance and change.
Discover the core principles and skills of DBT through a structured online programme, with guidance from Dr John Crimmins.
6 modulesA clear learning pathway
100% onlineLearn wherever you are
2 assignmentsConsolidate your learning
£395One-time course fee
Understanding DBT
Acceptance and change, working together
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy brings together behavioural approaches and mindfulness. Its central balance is recognising a person’s present experience while working towards meaningful change.
This diploma introduces a framework for understanding emotions, relationships and responses to stress. Explore how DBT concepts can inform your professional learning and personal development.
Understand your responses
Learn a vocabulary for emotions and explore skills for navigating difficult moments.
Connect with clarity
Consider how to express needs, maintain boundaries and build more balanced relationships.
Learning outcomes
Skills you can understand and develop
Connect the ideas behind DBT with everyday situations and the demands of your existing role.
- Explain the core principles and structure of DBT.
- Explore mindfulness and present-moment awareness.
- Identify emotions and consider ways to regulate responses.
- Understand distress tolerance and acceptance.
- Develop clearer communication and boundaries.
- Bring skills together using reflection and diary cards.
Your learning pathway
Six modules.
Four core skills areas.
Begin with DBT’s foundations, then explore mindfulness, emotion regulation, interpersonal effectiveness and distress tolerance.
Select a module to explore its topics.
MODULE 01Introduction to DBT
- The principles of acceptance and change
- Biosocial theory and emotion dysregulation
- The components and structure of DBT treatment
MODULE 02Mindfulness skills
- Observing thoughts, feelings and experiences
- Developing awareness of the present moment
- Using mindfulness in everyday situations
MODULE 03Emotion regulation
- Understanding and naming emotions
- Opposite action and problem-solving
- Developing more considered responses
MODULE 04Interpersonal effectiveness
- Communicating needs clearly
- Setting boundaries and navigating conflict
- Balancing relationships and self-respect
MODULE 05Distress tolerance
- Coping with difficult moments
- Distraction, self-soothing and crisis survival skills
- Understanding radical acceptance
MODULE 06Applying DBT skills
- Bringing the four skills areas together
- Using a DBT skills diary card
- Creating a personal crisis survival plan
Who this course is for
Professional learning and personal growth
For counsellors, therapists, nurses, social workers and others interested in developing their understanding of DBT.
It also welcomes people exploring emotional awareness and relationships for their own development.
No previous DBT training or formal qualifications are required.
How you will learn
- Online reading materials, short videos and slides.
- Six modules with a clear progression.
- Written assignments after Modules 3 and 6.
- Course guidance from Dr John Crimmins.
- A diploma on successful completion.
Meet your course tutor
Dr John Crimmins
Psychotherapist, educator and Institute Director
Dr John Crimmins brings over 25 years of experience to his work in psychotherapy and education. His background includes a psychotherapy degree from Trinity College Dublin and a PhD in Psychology.
His teaching draws on a longstanding interest in empathy, personal growth and understanding the individual. As your tutor, he is available for questions about the course content and guidance as you study.
Continuing professional development
Learning that supports your development
CPD-accredited training provider
The Behaviour Institute is accredited by the CPD Certification Service in London. This diploma offers further learning in DBT theory and skills.
A professional development diploma; it does not confer professional registration or a licence to practise.
Take the next step
Begin your DBT diploma
Explore the ideas and skills that connect emotional awareness, acceptance and change.
After registration, your login details are sent by email. Your fee includes learning materials, tutor support, assessment and your diploma on successful completion.
£395One-time payment · Course and diploma included
Enrol with a one-time paymentFlexible payment option
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Your questions answered
Frequently asked questions
Do I need previous DBT training?
No. Previous DBT training and formal educational qualifications are not required.
How is the course delivered?
The course is fully online. Learning materials include reading, short videos and slide presentations.
How is the course assessed?
There are two written assignments, submitted after Modules 3 and 6. The questions are available on your student dashboard.
Will I have tutor support?
Yes. Dr John Crimmins is available to answer questions about the course content and provide guidance during your studies.
What does the course fee include?
The £395 one-time fee includes course materials, tutor support, assessment and a diploma emailed to you on successful completion.
