What this tool is for
Use this worksheet preset after a Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) client has engaged in a target problem behavior and practitioner and client need a shared functional understanding of what led to it and what followed.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Chain Analysis Worksheet
The Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Chain Analysis Worksheet helps practitioners and clients reconstruct one target problem behavior by mapping the prompting event, vulnerability factors, ordered links, consequences, and possible alternatives.
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Tool guide
Learn more about this tool
Use this background section to understand when the tool fits, how practitioners use it, and what to consider before sharing it with clients.
One behavior at a time
The worksheet is anchored to one concrete target behavior. If multiple behaviors appear in the same incident, select one behavior first.
Partial chains
Uncertain or missing links can remain unresolved. The result preserves completed sections without forcing unsupported detail.
Natural continuation
A completed chain can lead into solution analysis, possible alternatives, follow-up planning, or future diary-card monitoring.
Does this worksheet choose Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills for the client?
No. It organizes the chain and attached alternatives, but it does not automatically select skills or make treatment recommendations.
Can the chain be incomplete?
Yes. Partial chains remain visible with unresolved sections for later work.
Can the chain be edited?
Yes. Items can be added, edited, or removed as the sequence becomes clearer.
What is saved if there are no settings?
The Chain Analysis worksheet preset is saved; demo content is not saved as real client data.