Treat Problematic Behaviour Patterns Using Dialectical Behaviour Therapy Approaches (DBT)

What Will You Learn?

• Dialectical behavior therapy (or DBT) is an evidence-based treatment developed by psychologist Marsha M. Linehan and was designed to help people who sometimes experience overwhelming emotions. It emphasizes balancing behavioral change, problem- solving, and emotional regulation with validation, mindfulness, and acceptance.
• This course focuses on using DBT theory and interventions to assess and intervene with problematic behaviour patterns including behaviours associated with suicidality and self harm, substance use, and impaired functioning. Marsha Linehan’s theory, psycho-educational material, and phases of treatment will be reviewed and practiced with didactic and experiential methods.
• DBT skills aim to help enhance client’s capabilities in day-to-day life. Participants will learn and practise the 4 DBT skills to enhance client’s capabilities in day-to-day life:
• Mindfulness: This is the practice of being fully aware and focused in the present instead of worrying about the past or future.
• Distress tolerance: This involves understanding and managing your emotions in difficult or stressful situations without responding with harmful behaviors.
• Interpersonal effectiveness: This means understanding how to ask for what you want and need and setting boundaries while maintaining respect for yourself and others.
• Emotion regulation: This means understanding, being more aware of and having more control over your emotions.