the decider  Decider skills training for health professionals

the decider

Decider skills training for health professionals

The Decider is a package of 32 emotional regulation skills, that are informed by Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT.)

It was co-created by Michelle Ayres and Carol Vivyan, CBT therapists and mental health nurses from the U.K.  Pip and Damien are Authorised Trainers for The Decider.

The program distils complex psychological theory into 4 core skill areas:

  • Distress tolerance
  • Mindfulness
  • Emotional regulation
  • Interpersonal effectiveness

There is a well established research and evidence base, and it is accredited with the British Psychological Society. The Decider is increasingly used across a range of settings in the U.K, including adult mental health, CAMHs, addiction services, inpatient/day services, prison settings, and non-government agencies that have a focus on mental health and well-being.

What’s the teaching approach?

The Decider was developed in consultation with mental health service users, who said that they wanted to learn practical skills for managing their emotions, in a fun, accessible, and less problem focused way. The skills are generally taught in a group setting, but there is lots of flexibility about how its delivered, and to whom.

Each skill is taught using a range of demonstrations, props, music, and visuals. Written handouts and homework sheets reinforce learning.

What are the benefits of The Decider?

  • The training is appropriate for a wide range of professionals
  • It’s cost and time effective – 25 participants can be trained in a 1 or 2 day workshop format (or online training is also available). Each participant receives a comprehensive training manual, client workbook, and unlimited access to website resources
  • It can help to create consistency and a shared language across your service
  • It provides a waitlist intervention, and complements other therapy approaches

Go to www.thedecider.org.uk for more information