Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is one of the leading examples of an evidence-based practice. Originally developed as an outpatient treatment, DBT has more recently been applied in diverse settings such as public schools, community-based group homes, and outreach treatment settings. DBT has been proven to be effective with people who are in persistent emotional distress, have chronically unstable relationships, and present with recurrent self-injury and/or suicidal behavior. DBT has been used to treat high performing, but-distressed students, seriously disturbed adolescents and people with persistent mental illness and/or developmental disabilities. The 4-part Skills Series provides an essential overview of DBT, its theoretical foundation as well as the use and application of the 4 skill modules. Participants who complete the series will be well prepared to implement DBT skills groups in a variety of settings. The series also sets the stage for the 4-part series on DBT Individual Therapy. Two books will be employed frequently throughout the series: “DBT Skills Training Manual, 2nd Edition” and “DBT Skills Training Handouts and Worksheets, 2 nd Edition” both by Marsha Linehan. Participants are strongly urged to purchase these texts. Those who specialize in working with youth and families are recommended to also read “DBT Skills Training for Adolescents” by Jill Rathus and Alec Miller. Those lacking a comprehensive understanding of behavioral principles are recommended to read “Don’t Shoot the Dog” by Karen Pryor. All of these books will be available for purchase at the training. DBT Skills Part 1 will cover the treatment elements of DBT, The Bio-Social Theory of personality disorders, how DBT can be applied in a variety of clinical settings, and the first skills module, Core Mindfulness.

Hosted by The Bridge Training Institute in Marlborough, MA for 6 CEs. For more info, visit: http://thebridgetraininginstitute.org/.