Introduction to DBT

Training Description

This training is designed to provide clinical professionals with the fundamental knowledge and application strategies of DBT. Attendees will review the foundational theory and development of DBT and learn to identify populations where it is most efficacious. The final component involves intensive, guided practice, empowering participants to apply DBT concepts and skills effectively in their therapy sessions immediately following the workshop.

Level: Beginner

Learning Objectives

After attending this course, participants will be able to:

• Describe the foundational theory, history, and development of DIalectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
• Identify the specific clinical populations and presenting problems for which DBT is the most empirically supported and effective treatment
• Name the four core skill modules of DBT (Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Emotion Regulation, and Interpersonal Effectiveness)
• Practice and demonstrate the use of at least one core skill from each of the four DBT modules within a guided workshop setting
• Formulate a plan for immediate, practical application of a learned DBT skill into their individual or family therapy sessions

Course Outline

9:45 am: Welcome, Centering, Review of Objectives

9:55 am: Foundational Theory & Development

10:30 am: DBT's Target Population & Structure

11:00 am: Skill Module Deep Dive: Mindfulness

11:15 am: Discussion: Mindfulness in Practice

11:30 am: Restorative Break

11:45 am: Skill Module Deep Dive: Distress Tolerance

12:15 pm: Skill Module Deep Dive: Emotional Regulation

12:40 pm: Discussion: Application and Next Steps

12:50 pm: Resources

About the Presenters

John Windsor is a dedicated mental health professional committed to inspiring positive change for individuals and families. He earned his M.A. in Mental Health and Wellness Counseling from New York University in 2019. Since then, he has continued to gain knowledge and training around his expertise and brought those skills to Villa Maria Behavioral Health for the past 6 years, where he primarily works with adults individually and with youth and their families. His work is guided by a comprehensive and integrated therapeutic approach, prominently featuring Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). He also expertly uses Internal Family Systems (IFS), Jungian theory, Logotherapy, CBT-Plus, PCIT, and mindfulness-based strategies. He fosters self-awareness and practical skills, empowering his clients to achieve meaningful, lasting growth.

Registration & Info

This course is provided free to current Catholic Charities of Baltimore employees and for a fee to non-employees. Registration and additional information, including cost is available via Eventbrite. Registration closes at 11:59 pm on April 10, 2026 or when space is full, whichever comes first. Refunds may be requested via the Eventbrite platform until April 10, 2026 at 11:59 pm; after that date no refund will be given. Please contact Johanna Miller at jmiller@cc-md.org with any questions, concerns, or requests for special accommodations.

Course Completion & CE Info

Course completion requirements: Participants must attend the entire course and complete a course evaluation to earn CE credit. Certificates of completion will be e-mailed within 10 business days

This course qualifies for 3 contact hours. See below for specific approvals.

Associated Catholic Charities (Catholic Charities of Baltimore) is authorized by the Board of Social Work Examiners in Maryland to sponsor social work continuing education learning activities and maintains full responsibility for this program. This training qualifies for 3 hours in Category 1 continuing education units.

Contact Information

Catholic Chariites of Baltimore (Associated Catholic Charities)

2300B Dulaney Valley Road

Timonium, MD 21093

667-600-2000

info@cc-md.org

www.cc-md.org