DBT skills groups have been essential in helping people better regulate emotions and deal with distress for a plethora of diagnoses, including people with neurodiverse brains. However, with the emergence of better research about how neurodiverse brains process the world, DBT has been following the lead to revamp its delivery to better fit this research. In this training, we will look at neuroscience and how DBT works, and follow with learning some skills that have been tweaked to better fit our neurodiverse clients.
Upon completion of this training, participants will be able to:
- Basics of skills modules in DBT
- An overview of neurodiversity
- An ability to teach some neurodivergent-friendly DBT skills to clients in session
Syllabus:
Objective #1: Overview of DBT and Neurodiversity
- Define DBT: dialectical, behavioral, and therapeutic components
- Describe DBT structure: individual therapy, group skills, phone coaching, and consultation team
- Introduce neurodiversity as differences in brain function and processing
- Use affirming language including identity-first preferences
- Emphasize the importance of validating and inclusive therapeutic environments
Objective #2: Common Challenges in Neurodivergent Clients
- Recognize sensory processing issues including over/under-stimulation and conflicts
- Identify communication differences and interpersonal misunderstandings
- Understand masking, camouflaging, and the effects of sustained burnout
- Acknowledge increased risk of depression, suicidality, trauma, and self-harm
- Address difficulties with impulse control, boundary setting, and emotional regulation
Objective #3: DBT Skill Adaptations for Neurodivergent Clients
- Clarify that DBT is about skillful living, not changing one’s identity
- Use baseline assessment to determine appropriate skills: distress tolerance, emotion regulation, or mindfulness
- Adapt skill teaching environments using sensory tools, seating options, and creative expression
Objective #4: Distress Tolerance Strategies
- Teach STOP skill for pausing before reacting
- Apply TIPPs for regulating intense emotions
- Use sensory-oriented alternatives like improving the environment rather than just the moment
- Support clients through meltdowns using personalized meltdown maps and safety plans
Objective #5: Emotion Regulation for Neurodivergent Clients
- Explain the purpose and function of emotions
- Address alexithymia and difficulties in emotional awareness
- Use the window of tolerance to guide emotional intensity regulation
- Reinforce emotional understanding using visual supports and repetitive learning
Objective #6: Mindfulness and Self-Awareness
- Focus mindfulness on understanding the self, not just reducing symptoms
- Explore personal values and special interests as mindfulness anchors
- Incorporate activities such as mindful stimming, eating, movement, and pet interaction
- Use comfort tools to support sensory needs during mindfulness practice
Objective #7: Managing Sensory Needs in Therapy
- Develop personalized sensory profiles
- Identify triggers and signs of sensory overload
- Create sensory toolkits for use in session and daily life
Objective #8: Interpersonal Effectiveness and Social Support
- Normalize different communication and relational needs
- Teach boundary setting and assertiveness in neurodivergent-friendly ways
- Address rejection sensitivity dysphoria with affirmation practices
- Help clients find affirming communities or “tribes” that understand their experience
Social workers completing this course receive 2 Clinical asynchronous continuing education credits.
For other board approvals, this course qualifies for 2 Clinical continuing education training.
Instructor: Stacy Blankenship, LCSW
Recording Date: 2/23/2024
CEUS On-Demand, LLC, provider #2274, is approved as an ACE provider to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Regulatory boards are the final authority on courses accepted for continuing education credit. ACE provider approval period: 08/7/2026 - 08/6/2027. Social workers completing this course receive 2hrs Clinical continuing education credits.
CEUs On-Demand, LLC has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 7091. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. CEUs On-Demand, LLC is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.
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Request for Special Accommodations: Learners can request special accommodations by contacting the administrative team at admin@ceus-ondemand.com