Half-Smile and Willing Hands
A DBT distress tolerance log for half-smile and willing hands, recording situations, distress before and after, and observations.
1-page fillable PDF · US Letter (prints on A4) · DBT · Distress tolerance
- Approach / concern
- DBT
- Technique
- DBT · Distress tolerance
- Format
- Fillable PDF, 1 page (US Letter / A4)
- Access
- Pro and Advanced plans (3-day free trial)
- For
- Licensed clinicians to use with clients
- Updated
- October 2026
Key facts
What is the Half-Smile and Willing Hands?
Half-smile and willing hands are DBT reality acceptance skills that use posture and facial expression to support willingness and radical acceptance.
Why it works
Linehan (2015) includes half-smiling and willing hands among reality acceptance skills. DBT skills use is associated with improved outcomes (Neacsiu et al., 2010).
When to use it
- Radical acceptance practice
- Anger and resentment
- Grief
- DBT skills groups
How to use it in session
- Learn the postures.
- Practise when calm.
- Use in difficult moments.
- Rate distress.
- Reflect.
Clinician tips
- A half-smile isn’t a fake smile.
- Combine with radical acceptance.
- Practise in session first.
Worked example
Sharing with clients
Members can download the PDF to print or email, or copy a private client link from the download box. Your client opens the link and downloads the worksheet on any device. No client account is needed, and nothing your client writes is stored on TherapyAid.
Frequently asked questions
Isn’t this just faking happiness?
No. A half-smile is a gentle, relaxed expression that supports acceptance, not pretending.
When should I use these skills?
When you’re struggling to accept something you can’t change right now.
References
Linehan, M. M. (2015). DBT skills training manual (2nd ed.). Guilford Press.
Neacsiu, A. D., Rizvi, S. L., & Linehan, M. M. (2010). Dialectical behavior therapy skills use as a mediator and outcome of treatment for borderline personality disorder. Behaviour Research and Therapy, 48(9), 832-839.
This worksheet is an educational tool for use by, or under the guidance of, a licensed or registered mental-health professional. It is not a diagnostic instrument or a substitute for clinical judgement. If a client is in crisis in Canada, call or text 9-8-8 or call 9-1-1.
