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DBT Metaphors and Stories: Understanding the Skills that Make Life Worth Living book cover

2nd Edition

DBT Metaphors and Stories Understanding the Skills that Make Life Worth Living

By James J. Esmail Copyright 2027
260 Pages 1 B/W Illustrations
by Routledge

260 Pages 1 B/W Illustrations
by Routledge

DBT Metaphors and Stories gives therapists and DBT skills trainers the skills they need to make effective use of dialectical behavior therapy and to help clients understand how a dialectical approach to the complex realities of life helps build a life worth living. Each page is devoted to explaining a specific DBT skill. The book is structured so that it can be used in several ways, including... Read more

1. The Power Of Metaphor And Storytelling To Capture Attention, Teach Complex Realities, Motivate Practice And Transform The Listener  2. Why Engage In DBT Skills Training?  3. Mindfulness Skills  4. Interpersonal Effectiveness  5. Emotion Regulation  6. Distress Tolerance, Part One  7. Radical And Reality Acceptance (Distress Tolerance, Part Two)  8. Understanding Dialectics In DBT

Biography

James J. Esmail, PsyD, is a clinical psychologist in private practice in Cincinnati, Ohio. He previously worked in community mental health, in the state psychiatric hospital in Cincinnati, and as adjunct professor at Xavier University.

“DBT Metaphors and Stories illustrates DBT skills in a creative, witty, and unique way that brings often-confusing concepts to life. The stories and metaphors will bring laughter and light-bulb moments, as well as motivate the reader to sustained practice of the skills. If you’re looking for an enjoyable read that will deepen your understanding of DBT skills and entertain you along the way, you’ve come to the right place!”

Brett Dowdy, PsyD, chief of psychological services and clinical director of outpatient services, Lindner Center of Hope

“Metaphors are a central dialectical strategy in DBT but can be tricky to create and deliver effectively. DBT Metaphors and Stories is an outstanding resource packed with creative, thoughtful examples that make this essential skill more accessible for any DBT therapist.”

Nikki Vail, PsyD, ABPP, founder and CEO of Cincinnati Center for DBT

“DBT Metaphors and Stories is a great tool for DBT clinicians and non-DBT clinicians alike to enhance their skills in the use of metaphors and stories in treatment. My clinical psychology graduate students and I have benefited from Dr. Esmail’s adept manner of skillfully teaching how to use these strategies to help clients progress. This book is both enjoyable to read and is immediately applicable to clinical work.”

Nicholas Salsman, PhD, ABPP, professor of psychology at Xavier University

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