DBT TRAINING
DBT is a comprehensive treatment that requires a clinician to blend a principle-based approach with specific protocols that are part of a greater framework. In order to deliver treatment, clinicians need to be suitably qualified and trained.
Behavioral Tech proposes four levels of training that can lead to being suitably trained to deliver DBT. They are as follows:
Level 1: Learning the basic principles of DBT and deciding if it is right for you and your clients.
Level 2: Applying DBT principles and how DBT skills can integrate into your existing practice.
Level 3: Implement a full DBT program, based on the original model developed and researched by Dr Marsha Linehan.
Level 4: Learn how to adapt DBT for special populations.
Melissa offers a range of training in DBT at all levels.
Training programs can be specifically tailored to the needs of your team. Please contact Melissa to discuss your training needs.
LEVEL 1: FOUNDATIONS OF DBT (1-DAY WORKSHOP)
Melissa’s one-day Level 1 workshop is intended to help clinicians assess if DBT is right for their practice and their clients, The content of the Level 1 workshop provides training to a level where clinicians will have an understanding of the biosocial theory of BPD, have awareness of the core principles of DBT, and the standard content and processes of DBT. The format of the training includes lecture-style presentations, interactive discussions, and videotaped examples.
This Level 1 workshop is a prerequisite for Level 2 and Level3 DBT training.
LEVEL 2: SKILLS TRAINING IN DBT & INDIVIDUAL THERAPY IN DBT
Melissa’s Level 2 workshops can be facilitated separately as one-day workshops, or together as a two-day workshop.
The Skills Training workshop covers the fundamentals of DBT skills, including skills from the four skills modules – Distress Tolerance, Emotion Regulation, Interpersonal Effectiveness, and Mindfulness skills. Participants learn how to plan, structure and conduct DBT skills training in a skills training group setting. The format of the workshop includes lecture-style presentations, interactive discussions, role plays, and videotaped examples.
The Individual Therapy workshop covers the fundamentals of conducting individual therapy within a DBT framework. It includes the core skills of an individual DBT therapist – case conceptualisation, chain analysis, and diary cards, structuring sessions according to hierarchy of problem behaviours, and what to treat and when.
LEVEL 3: INTENSIVE DIALECTICAL BEHAVIOUR THERAPY WORKSHOP (5 DAYS)
Melissa’s Level 3 training (intensive workshop only) is designed for those who have foundational training in DBT and who are part of an existing DBT team. The focus of the 5-day workshop is on the overall application of DBT. It includes the history and evolution of DBT, concepts and controversies surrounding BPD, the principles and theories of DBT, learning to apply the elements of a comprehensive DBT program including individual therapy, skills training, phone coaching, and consultation teams, assessing and managing risk, and resource and process issues involved in facilitating a comprehensive DBT program.
LEVEL 3: COMPREHENSIVE TRAINING IN DBT (5 DAY WORKSHOP + ONGOING CONSULTANCY)
Melissa’s comprehensive training in DBT is designed for teams who would like to implement a comprehensive DBT program or DBT-informed programs. It incorporates two elements: a 5-day workshop, and 12 sessions of consultation/group supervision.
The focus of the 5-day workshop is on the overall application of DBT. It includes the history and evolution of DBT, concepts and controversies surrounding BPD, the principles and theories of DBT, learning to apply the elements of a comprehensive DBT program including individual therapy, skills training, phone coaching, and consultation teams, assessing and managing risk, and resource and process issues involved in facilitating a comprehensive DBT program.
Consultation/group supervision is delivered following completion of the 5-day workshop, and can be provided on a weekly, fortnightly, or monthly basis. Melissa will attend consultation team meetings on-site and facilitate supervision, support, and the opportunity for reflection on DBT practice.