Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) is a type of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) that uses mindfulness-based techniques to help people manage difficult emotions. In this introductory course, you will learn about the core concepts, theories and skills used in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy.

DBT was originally developed to treat borderline personality disorder and is now used for a range of problems including suicidal behaviour, self-harm, eating disorders, substance use and depression. DBT helps individuals deliver skills in emotion regulation, interpersonal effectiveness and distress tolerance so they can replace dysfunctional behaviour with healthier alternatives. The underlying model of DBT consists of four interconnected components:

1. Individual Therapy: Core one-on-one sessions where clients work on reducing problematic behaviours and building life skills with their therapist.

2. Group Skills Training: Skill-building groups covering mindfulness, emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness.

3. Telephone Coaching: Real-time support between sessions for managing crises and applying skills.

4. Consultation Team: Therapists consult with a team to ensure the most effective treatment and to manage their own reactions to challenging cases.

The course is designed for psychotherapists and mental health professionals looking to explore DBT, but it is equally accessible to all who seek to understand this evidence-based therapeutic approach. By the end of the course, you'll have a comprehensive grasp of the core concepts of Dialectical Behaviour Therapy.

In this course, you will learn:

• Gain a comprehensive understanding of Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), a unique therapeutic approach.

• Explore the origins, history, and development of DBT, and its specific focus on Borderline Personality Disorder.

• Learn about the theoretical underpinnings of DBT, including dialectics, the cognitive model, and the functions of therapy.

• Discover the core components of DBT, including individual psychotherapy, problem-solving techniques, validation, skills training, mindfulness, and interpersonal effectiveness.

• Explore essential skills in individual psychotherapy, such as diary cards, behaviour chain analysis, and solution analysis.

• Understand the problem-solving approach in DBT, incorporating both cognitive restructuring and behavioural techniques.

• Master the art of validation and its importance in the therapeutic process.

• Understand the function of consultation teams and their significance in DBT practice.

The course is thoughtfully designed, featuring video lectures, downloadable resources, quizzes, practical exercises, and a comprehensive course handbook. This course is accredited by the International Association of Therapists. On completion, you'll receive the standard Udemy certificate of completion. If you wish to become a registered member of the BABCP, you will require further training.

Things to be aware of:

• Prior experience in cognitive behavioural therapy, mindfulness and counselling skills is helpful but not required.

• DBT is typically delivered in team environments.

• Due to the nature of the material, we will briefly touch on suicide, self-harm and abuse.