DBT Training

This intensive training will provide a foundational understanding of the background and underlying theories and assumptions of DBT, while also working to build understanding, knowledge, and capability around how to teach skills in a meaningful and lasting way.  Attendees can anticipate an overview of the skills that are an integral part of DBT, as well as learning experiences on Diary Cards, Behavior Chain Analyses, and other fundamental elements of DBT.  In addition, topics around therapy interfering behaviors, managing challenging and difficult situations with clients, how to manage group difficulties, and understanding the therapeutic characteristics of a DBT therapist will be covered.

Learning Objectives:

• Develop an understanding of the application of DBT consistent with evidence-based practices.
• Learn the underlying philosophies of DBT and connect them to the interventions provided by DBT.
• Use DBT assumptions to guide therapy and instill skills.
• Identify ways to integrate mindfulness practice.
• Learn key concepts in teaching DBT skills to clients.
• Gain knowledge and skill in teaching and applying the four core DBT skill modules.
• Identify ways to develop and integrate skills planning to manage suicidal and self-injurious behaviors, as well as other therapeutic targets.
• Identify ways to use DBT in a variety of different therapeutic settings.
• Practice multiple layers of validation.
• Identify the role of consultation in the use of DBT therapy.
• Master DBT tools including behavior chains, diary cards, and skills plans.
• Understand the dialectical concepts that define a therapeutic approach that encourages balance and flexibility.
• Develop an understanding of core dialectics that can inform interventions for clients in a variety of therapy settings.
• Acquire skills and strategies to encourage dialectical movement to create flow between core concepts of acceptance and change.
• Reflect on their own dialectical stances, and understand dialectical qualities of effective therapy.
• Identify patterns of behavior that interfere with treatment and create avoidance in both client and therapist alike, and develop plans to address these behaviors.

Presenter

Chris Malone, PsyD, LP began his career in mental health working in child and adolescent residential settings before beginning his current tenure at Mental Health Systems as a practicum student.  Over the past sixteen years Chris has facilitated Dialectical Behavior Therapy groups for adults and adolescents,  developed and facilitated group therapy for chronic pain clients as well as groups for thought disordered clients, and provided psychoeducation and support services for parents of those struggling with mental health concerns.  Chris is currently a Licensed Psychologist with the state of Minnesota and the Director of Supervision at MHS, overseeing the development of new supervisors and ensuring the quality of supervisory services.  Outside of MHS, Chris has taught ethics, research, psychopathology, and treatment interventions to Master’s level learners, and has presented at the MPA, the MACMH, and other professional organizations.  Chris is a member of the APA, with membership in Divisions 44 (Sexual Orientation and Gender Diversity), 45 (Study of Culture, Ethnicity and Race) and 49 (Group Psychology and Psychotherapy).  In his personal life Chris enjoys tabletop gaming and game design, creative writing, painting, boating, fishing, and bothering his cats.

CEUs

This training has been approved for 12 continuing education units by the following boards.

• Minnesota Board of Social Work
  • CE Provider Approval Number: CEP-452
• Minnesota Board of Psychology
  • CE Provider Approval Number: 202507.019
• Minnesota Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy—LPC and LPCC
  • CE Provider Approval Number: 2024.CE.266
• Minnesota Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy—LADC
  • CE Provider Approval Number: 2024.CE.ADC.114
• Minnesota Board of Marriage and Family Therapy
  • CE Provider Approval Number: 2024-272