As you prepare for your first intake appointment, we encourage you to explore these resources as a way to support yourself and get oriented to DBT. They introduce key ideas about emotion regulation and skills-based treatment, and can help you feel more ready to begin.

1. Create a Crisis Plan: When distress is high, it is harder to think clearly or remember what helps. A crisis plan supports your future self by outlining warning signs, coping skills, and who to contact when things feel overwhelming. Making one ahead of time is a practical way to protect your safety and increase your sense of control, even if you never end up needing to use it. You can download a safety plan template here.

2. We invite you to read this New York Times article here about Marsha Linehan, the creator of DBT. It shares her story, the origins of DBT, and a thoughtful perspective on Borderline Personality Disorder.

3. Begin exploring DBT skills through the RU-DBT YouTube Channel here. This channel features brief, animated videos that introduce many of the core skills taught in Dialectical Behavior Therapy. It’s a gentle way to get familiar with the skills if you’re new to DBT, and a helpful refresher if you’ve learned them before and want to reconnect with what works.

4. Take a look at resources from NEA-BPD: The National Education Alliance for Borderline Personality Disorder (NEA-BPD) offers a wide range of educational resources for both individuals living with BPD and their families. Their website provides articles, videos, learning tools, and supportive information designed to increase understanding, reduce stigma, and promote effective coping strategies. You can explore these resources here.