Abstract
This article introduces the mental health treatment, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) as a dynamic and challenging therapy well suited to a critical social work perspective. From the authors’ experience of providing DBT in a tertiary health setting over the past three years, the connections between DBT and social work will be espoused with the central tenet being the demonstration that psychiatric social workers are highly skilled once trained in this modality
Highlights
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) is an internationally delivered, intensive psychotherapy utilised for certain mental health problems
We introduce DBT as a treatment that is becoming more utilised in mental health fields through multi-disciplinary delivery, and posit that the social work paradigm, training and practice means that social workers in mental health settings are well-placed to deliver it
DBT is continuing to grow in popularity; a strong evidence base is only one element that accounts for its rapid growth (Swenson, 2000)
Summary
Brent Cooper is trained as a Dialectical Behaviour therapist and works as a social worker in MidCentral DHB’s Early Intervention for Psychosis Service (IMPACT). He is passionate about journeying with people through distress and change. Jane Parsons is a clinical social worker and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy Coordinator in the Child, Adolescent and Family Mental Health and Alcohol and Drug service. Jane’s focus is with youth and women’s mental health needs
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