Enhancing DBT for Autistic Clients

About the Course

This two-day training provides therapists with an evidence-based, neurodiversity-affirming approach to optimising Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) for autistic people. Drawing on current research and clinical practice, the training explores autism and mental health disparities, the rationale for DBT with autistic clients, and adaptations to case conceptualisation using the biosocial model, treatment hierarchy, and life-worth-living goals. Participants will learn how to tailor DBT’s modes of treatment, including individual therapy, skills training, and between-session coaching, and apply DBT intervention principles in ways that enhance accessibility and effectiveness. The course also addresses therapist behaviours and styles to support accessibility for autistic clients. By the end, attendees will be equipped with practical strategies to deliver DBT that is responsive to neurodivergent needs while maintaining fidelity to the model.

Learning Objectives

By the end of the training, participants will be able to:

• Describe key features of autism and associated mental health disparities and articulate how these influence DBT.
• Explain the rationale for using DBT with autistic people, including relevant evidence bases, shared mechanisms, and areas of fit with the standard model.
• Optimise DBT case conceptualisation, including the biosocial model, treatment target hierarchy, life-worth-living goals and so forth, to reflect the unique needs of this population and minority stress experiences.
• Modify DBT’s modes of treatment (skills training groups, individual therapy, and between-session coaching) to improve accessibility, engagement, and generalisation of skills for autistic clients.
• Apply neurodiversity-affirming adaptations to DBT intervention principles, while preserving core treatment mechanisms.
• Understand therapist behaviours that enhance accessibility and outcomes for autistic clients, including teaching styles that accommodate executive functioning diversity, attention to sensory needs, and scaffolding generalisation.
• Integrate learning into practice.

Prerequisites

Participants must have:

• Previous training in standard DBT, at least at the Foundation level. Or:
• Training in essential DBT skills with involvement in programmes that deliver skills-only components.

Note: Prior knowledge of standard DBT and DBT skills will be assumed and will not be covered during this workshop.