Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) is structured, practical, and focused on skill building. For many people, that structure provides clarity. But if you have dyslexia, DBT can come with extra challenges—following along in the manual during online group, processing information in real time, completing homework, or remembering multi-step skills. Fortunately, DBT teaches us how to problem-solve. The same method can be applied to these learning challenges—making the programme fit you, rather than forcing yourself to fit the programme. So let’s problem solve to make DBT work for you if you have dyslexia.

Step 1: Name the difficulties clearly

The first step in DBT problem-solving is identifying the exact problem. With dyslexia in an online DBT setting, this might include:

• Following the manual on-screen – text-heavy pages can be tiring or hard to track.

• Processing the skill while listening on video call – especially when the pace is fast.

• Completing written homework – spelling, typing speed, or handwriting may slow you down.

• Remembering skill sequences – acronyms like PLEASE or DEAR MAN need to be stored in order.

Naming these precisely helps you focus on realistic, targeted solutions.

Step 2: Brainstorm possible solutions

Once the problem is clear, list as many potential fixes as you can—without worrying about whether they’re perfect. Examples include:

• Use the DBT for Neurodivergence Handbook – this version presents the material in a more accessible way, with neurodivergent learning styles in mind.

• Colour ruler or overlay – a simple dyslexia aid to help track your place when reading the manual, whether in print or on screen.

• Text-to-speech software – to hear the handouts read aloud before or after group.

• Pre-group prep – skim the week’s material ahead of time so you’re not encountering it for the first time live.

• Watch videos after group – search online for explanations of the same DBT skill (e.g., “DBT GIVE skill video”) to reinforce what you learned.

• Alternative homework formats – voice notes, mind maps, drawings, or using dictation software instead of long written responses.

• Visual reminders – flashcards, colour-coded notes, or illustrated diagrams for skills with steps.

Step 3: Test small changes

Rather than trying everything at once, choose one or two adjustments and test them for a week or two. Examples:

• Use a colour ruler while following along in the online group PDF.

• After group, watch a short video on YouTube or a DBT skills playlist to refresh the key points.

Testing in small chunks makes it easier to see what genuinely works.

Step 4: Review and refine

Check in with yourself: Did the change make group easier to follow? Did it help you remember the skill later? If yes, keep it. If not, tweak it—perhaps switch from a colour ruler to increasing on-screen text size, or try a different style of video after group.

Specific strategies for online DBT groups

1. Following along in the manual

• Ask for digital copies of handouts so you can adjust font size, spacing, or background colour.

• Use a colour overlay on your computer screen (many free browser extensions exist).

• Have the DBT for Neurodivergence Handbook open alongside the main manual for clearer, simpler explanations.

2. Processing new skills in real time

• Use the “pin video” feature to keep the facilitator in view while they speak.

• Politely request brief pauses for note-taking, or use the chat to ask for a recap.

• Keep a simple notes page open—one bullet per key point—to avoid overload.

3. Completing homework

• Record answers on your phone’s voice memo app.

• Use speech-to-text tools built into most smartphones or computers.

• Submit work as diagrams or mind maps where possible.

4. Reinforcing learning after group

• Search for reputable DBT videos on the week’s skill to reinforce memory.

• Review a simplified version of the handout from the DBT for Neurodivergence Handbook.

• Practise the skill aloud with a trusted friend or family member.

 

Working with your therapist

Be open with your therapist about your dyslexia and the strategies you want to try. They can:

• Provide materials in dyslexia-friendly formats.

• Suggest skill-specific videos or resources.

• Allow for flexible homework submission formats.

• Offer verbal recaps at the start of each session.

These are not “extras”—they are legitimate accessibility needs that ensure therapy is fair and effective.

Acceptance and change in action

DBT is about balancing acceptance and change. Accept that your brain processes information differently, and change the environment, tools, and techniques so you can thrive in the programme.

Dyslexia might mean DBT takes more creativity and planning—but with practical problem-solving, the skills will become just as accessible and powerful.

Remember: you’re not “behind” if you learn differently. You’re just building the same skill set using tools that work for you.

 

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Dialectical Behaviour Therapy

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