What is DBT Skill: Committed Action?
Values-based action is a core component of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), a therapeutic approach developed by Marsha Linehan to help individuals manage emotions, tolerate distress, and improve relationships. DBT was developed in the 1970s by Marsha Linehan, and Linehan drew from cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical philosophy, and Buddhist psychology. DBT was originally developed from early efforts to apply standard behavior therapy to treat individuals who were highly suicidal, though it has since been shown to be helpful to people with other disorders.
This worksheet guides clients through three steps: identifying valued life domains (relationships, work, health, personal growth), setting clear intentions for each area, and listing actionable steps they can take to live in alignment with those values. The structure moves from reflection to commitment to concrete action.
How therapists use it
Introduce this worksheet when a client is ready to move from identifying emotions and tolerating distress toward building a life that reflects their priorities. It works well after emotion regulation or distress tolerance skills, as a bridge to meaningful action. Ask the client to complete each section between sessions, then review their values and intended actions in the next appointment. Use their responses to identify barriers, problem-solve obstacles, and reinforce the connection between their stated values and the steps they're willing to take.
Who it's for
For individuals with anxiety and depression, DBT helps by promoting emotional regulation, acceptance, and cognitive flexibility. This worksheet suits clients who struggle to connect their emotions to their choices, or who feel stuck in avoidance patterns. It is particularly useful for those who benefit from structure and concrete goal-setting. It may be less helpful for clients in acute crisis, those with severe cognitive impairment, or those not yet ready to commit to behavioral change. It works best as part of a fuller DBT treatment plan rather than as a standalone tool.
What clients see
The client reflects on life domains that matter to them, writes down their core values in each area, and lists small, specific actions they can take this week to move toward those values. They see their responses saved and can return to review and update them as their priorities shift.
Modality fit
DBT's distress tolerance module covers building meaningful lives through values-based activities. Committed action operationalizes this by having clients identify their values explicitly and translate them into behavioral steps, which is central to how DBT moves clients from acceptance and distress tolerance toward a life worth living.
Common questions
When should I assign this worksheet?
Use it after the client has learned emotion regulation or distress tolerance skills and is ready to build a life aligned with their values. It works well mid-treatment, when they have some emotional stability and can focus on intentional action rather than crisis management.
What if the client says they don't know their values?
Start with reflection: ask them to recall times they felt proud, at peace, or fulfilled. What were they doing? Who were they with? What mattered in that moment? Values often emerge from lived experience rather than abstract thinking.
How do I use their responses in session?
Review their stated values and intended actions together. Ask what got in the way of taking those steps. Problem-solve barriers. Celebrate any steps they did take. Use their answers to guide the next week's focus and to reinforce the link between values and behavior.
Is this worksheet enough on its own?
No. It is most effective as part of a fuller DBT treatment plan that includes individual therapy, skills training, and phone coaching. Use it to supplement and reinforce the values work you are doing in session.
What if the client's values conflict with each other?
This is normal and worth exploring. Help them prioritize: which value matters most right now? Can they take small steps in multiple areas, or does one need focus this week? Values often shift over time, and the worksheet can be revisited regularly.