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READING RECOMMENDATIONS

A Day on the Third Wave

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Dr Cinzia Pezzolesi - The Weekend University

Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy: An Introduction

Dr Cinzia Pezzolesi
Professor Michaela Swales, PhD

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy

Professor Michaela Swales, PhD
Chris Irons

An Introduction to Compassion Focused Therapy

Dr Chris Irons, PhD
Third Wave

Explore how third wave approaches to psychotherapy can help you improve your wellbeing – includes practical exercises and information on the growing evidence base for these pioneering forms of therapy.

The first wave of cognitive therapy focused heavily on behaviourist approaches to change, such as classical conditioning (Pavlov), and operant conditioning (Skinner). The second wave came in the 1970s, with the arrival of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). CBT is based on the idea that thoughts lead to feelings, which lead to behaviours, and therefore the emphasis now switched to changing how we think. We are now in the era of ‘third wave’ psychotherapy. Interestingly, the focus of the third wave isn’t on changing thoughts or feelings themselves. Instead, these approaches aim to change our relationship to our thoughts and feelings, so we can enjoy greater wellbeing in day to day life. Integrating techniques from CBT with concepts from neuroscience, mindfulness, evolutionary theory, and the science of compassion, third wave approaches have the potential to make a valuable contribution to the work of any psychotherapist, counsellor, psychologist or coach. With practice, they can help us recognise how we become entangled in streams of worry, self-criticism and ruminative thinking, and break free from these patterns to improve our wellbeing and realise more of our potential. During this online conference, you’ll explore the rapidly developing evidence base for Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), and Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), and learn how these pioneering approaches can offer an effective solution to many of the mental health problems we face today. The day will combine presentations with practical exercises, and will feature talks from three of the UK’s leading clinical psychologists. It is an introductory conference, and no prior experience or knowledge of any of the approaches is required.

Content

  •  Compassion Focused Therapy; how neuroscience, mindfulness, and evolutionary science have informed the development of CFT, why developing positive feelings associated with contentment, safeness and soothing can play a major role in managing distress and promoting wellbeing, and how compassion can be ‘put to work’ to alleviate suffering – Dr Chris Irons, PhD
  • Dialectical Behavioural Therapy; the three foundations upon which DBT rests – zen, behaviourism and dialectics (and how these integrate), what dialectics are, the vital role they play in the therapeutic process, and how DBT can be applied to treat a wide range of mental health problems – Professor Michaela Swales, PhD
  •  Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy; the science and theory that informs MBCT, why it is particularly helpful for treating recurrent depression and anxiety disorders, and how MBCT can be applied for greater self-acceptance; enabling you to face life’s difficulties with self-compassion instead of self criticism – Dr Cinzia Pezzolesi, PhD
You’ll learn how third wave approaches can help you improve your own wellbeing, but also how they can be applied to help others do the same.

Event Schedule:

  • 10:00am – 12:00pm: Compassion Focused Therapy – Dr Chris Irons, PhD
  • 12:00 – 1:00pm: Lunch break
  • 1:00pm – 3:00pm: Dialectical Behaviour Therapy – Professor Michaela Swales, PhD
  • 3:00pm – 3:30pm: Afternoon break
  • 3:30pm – 5:00pm: Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy – Dr Cinzia Pezzolesi

Lectures & Speakers

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An Introduction to Compassion Focused Therapy

What is compassion? How is it beneficial for people? And how can it be harnessed directly as part of therapy?  In this talk, we’ll take a look at some of the key theories underneath and practices of CFT, and see how this can be a powerful way of working with distress and suffering.

This presentation will help you learn some of the key basics of CFT, and have an opportunity to try out a few CFT interventions and see how these may be useful. At the end of the workshop, you’ll have a better sense of what CFT is, how it can be helpful, and hopefully energise you to find out more about CFT in the future!

Chris Irons
Dr Chris Irons, PhD

An Introduction to Compassion Focused Therapy

Dr Chris Irons, PhD, is a Clinical Psychologist, and Director at Balanced Minds, an independent psychology practice in London set up to bring compassion-focused approaches to individuals and organisations in London and the UK. In his clinical work, he uses Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT; Gilbert, 2009; Gilbert & Irons, 2005) in working with people suffering from a variety of mental health problems, but also in bringing these ideas to the general public. He is an internationally recognised trainer and supervisor of CFT, and the author of a number of CFT books, including: “The Compassionate Mind Workbook”, “CFT from the Inside Out” and “CFT for Difficult Emotions”.

Chris also works with the Compassionate Mind Foundation, a charitable organisation aiming to: “Promote wellbeing through the scientific understanding and application of compassion”.

Reading Recommendations:

Books and Articles: 

  • Irons, C. (2017) The Compassionate Mind Workbook: A step by step guide to developing your compassionate self. London: Robinson
  • Kolts, R. L., Bell, T., Bennett-Levy, J., & Irons, C. (2018). Experiencing compassion-focused therapy from the inside out: A self-practice/self-reflection workbook for therapists. Guilford Publications.
  • Gilbert, P. (2009) The Compassionate Mind. A New Approach to Life’s Challenges. London: Constable & Robinson.
  • Gilbert, P. (2009) An introduction to compassion focused therapy. Advances in Psychiatric Treatment, 15, 199-208.
  • Gilbert, P. (2010) Compassion Focused Therapy: Distinctive Features. London: Routledge.
  • Gilbert, P. (ed.) (2010) Compassion Focused Therapy: Special Issue. International Journal of Cognitive Therapy. 3, 97-201

Videos

  • The Science of Compassion – Dr Chris Irons
  • Evolution & Compassion Focused Therapy – Professor Paul Gilbert
  • Compassion Focused Therapy: An Introduction – Professor Paul Gilbert

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy

Have you ever wondered what exactly DBT is?  What are its essential components? What exactly are dialectics and why are they relevant to a psychological therapy?  In this presentation, Professor Michaela Swales, an international expert in DBT, introduces you to the essential elements of DBT: underlying theories, treatment structure and treating clinical cases.

This presentation is aimed at those who know very little about DBT and who may be considering whether or not it is an appropriate intervention for their context, or for those who have heard about DBT and are curious to know more.  There will be an opportunity to discuss the presented material and to assess whether DBT would be a good fit for your organisation or your clinical context.

Professor Michaela Swales, PhD
Professor Michaela Swales, PhD

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy

Michaela Swales, PhD, is a Consultant Clinical Psychologist with BCUHB and Reader in Clinical Psychology on the North Wales Clinical Psychology Programme at Bangor University. She trained in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy in Seattle in 1994 and 1995 with Marsha Linehan and for twenty years ran a clinical programme for suicidal young people in an inpatient service. 

After completing specialist supervision in DBT, she became one of the founder members of the UK DBT Training Team in 1997 and Director of the Training Team in 2002. She has trained more than a thousand professionals in DBT, seeding over 400 programmes, in both the UK and further afield. She is the co-author of Dialectical Behaviour Therapy: Distinctive Features, which had its second edition published by Routledge in 2016 and Changing Behavior in DBT: Problem-Solving in Action, published by Guilford in 2015.

Reading Recommendations:

  • https://behavioraltech.org/resources/faqs/dialectical-behavior-therapy-dbt/
  • A brief outline can be found in the following article: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2963469/pdf/PE_3_9_62.pdf
  • A good introductory text to the treatment is: Swales, M & Heard H (2017).  Dialectical Behaviour Therapy: Distinctive Features.  Second Edition.  London: Routledge

Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy: An Introduction

Mindfulness based approaches such as MBCT are on the spotlight and it is wonderful that these concepts are getting more attention. However, as more people are introduced to these practices, there is often a misunderstanding of what MBCT really is.  This webinar will explore the main characteristics of MBCT, its scientific base, and will try to clarify some common misconceptions or confusion with similar approaches. The session will also explore how MBCT can help us recognize how we become entangled in streams of worries, self-criticism and ruminative thinking, and slowly learn to break free from these patterns to improve our well-being.  No prior mindfulness experience or knowledge required.

Learning outcomes:

  • Be able to define MBCT and its unique features
  • Explore the scientific evidence for the use of MBCT in depression relapses
  • Differentiate MBCT from other Mindfulness-based interventions such as MBSR
  • Understand how to practice and teach MBCT

Dr Cinzia Pezzolesi - The Weekend University
Dr Cinzia Pezzolesi

Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy: An Introduction

Dr Cinzia Pezzolesi is a chartered Clinical Psychologist and senior lecturer in mental health and wellbeing. She qualified as a mindfulness teacher at the University of Bangor and as CBT therapist at Oxford University. 

Dr Pezzolesi is currently acting as the Clinical Director of The Mindfulness Project (UK), and over the years has developed a strong research interest around wellbeing and mental health in various health care settings. Her areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, eating disorders and mental health and wellbeing at work.

Cinzia also has a passion for Mindful Eating, which has led her to train as a Mindful Eating teacher and to develop professional training for other like-minded professionals. She is the Vice President of the Centre for Mindful Eating in the USA, a space dedicated to the education of professionals and general public around food and the interconnection between our bodies and minds.

Reading Recommendations:

  • What is Mindfulness? 
    https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/a-to-z/m/mindfulness

    https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/stress-anxiety-depression/mindfulness/
  • Benefits of mindfulness: 
    https://www.apa.org/monitor/2012/07-08/ce-corner
  • Basics of CBT:
     https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/drugs-and-treatments/cognitive-behavioural-therapy-cbt/about-cbt/
     MBCT for Depression: Teasdale, J. D., Segal, Z. V., Williams, J. M. G., Ridgeway, V. A., Soulsby, J. M., & Lau, M. A. (2000). Prevention of relapse/recurrence in major depression by mindfulness-based cognitive therapy. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 68(4), 615–623. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-006X.68.4.615 

What TWU students are saying

attendee testimonals

I have attended 7 weekend University days and now I do not want to miss one because they have all been fantastic and worth dragging myself away from my lie in on a Sunday for. Each of the sessions I have attended have had excellent speakers talking about fascinating areas of Psychology. Having previously studied psychology I really enjoy delving back into the world of attending lectures and absorbing information again without the stress of exams or essays. But even if you have no psychology background I recommend coming to these events, especially if you see a topic you like you will not regret it! Niall not only organises these amazing event days but also now we have access to podcasts and he takes the time to organise a social after the event to meet fellow psychology enthusiasts as well as provide clear and easy instructions on how to get there, a certificate to say you attended the event and even lunch place suggestions which are little added extras which make the whole experience great. I am very glad to have the weekend university in my life and thank Niall and the team for making this happen.
Hannah Alice Howell
Event Attendee
The Weekend University is amazing! They recently hosted the Holistic Change Summit where such great minds were brought together to discuss a wide variety of topics relevant to change, growth and living a meaningful life. The facilitator, Niall, asked excellent questions which really gave the speaker the chance to discuss ideas that many of us wonder about. It was brilliant and I loved it.
Kiden Shae
Summit Attendee
Extremely stimulating events! It brings together great professionals who share their experience in their respective fields to pass their knowledge in a way accessible to the general public and other professionals alike. It is a great way to bring motivated people in the same place! Also, Niall is extremely thoughtful, considerate and driven person. His personal approach and professionalism in making those events happen does not go unnoticed!
Nikolay Petrov
Event Attendee
The most fantastic resource. Have been to a few of The Weekend University days - an incredible initiative bringing all that knowledge down from its Ivory Tower to an accessible and inviting platform - 10/10
Charlie Fooks
Event Attendee
Absolutely excellent day with The Weekend University last Saturday on Attachment and Psychotherapy. Superb speaker who was totally engaging, really useful practical insights, and great organisation. Thank you!
Helen Jane
Event Attendee
I attended an Existential Coaching seminar out of curiosity and ended up being supermotivated and serious to get more into this subject! The event was really went organised, the venue was central and easy to find and the organisers and facilitator were amazing. Totally recomend!
Fiora Maya Touliatou
Seminar Attendee
My first time at the Weekend University on their day of Wellbeing a fantastic event. Excellent venue, thought provoking speakers, interesting topics, really well organised, communication, support material a 5 star rating.
Viryapushpa Nolan
Event Attendee
I attended 'A Day on Sleep and Dreams’ and it was fantastic - excellent speakers and thought provoking content. The Weekend University has been a great discovery and I will defiantly be attending more lectures. The event was really well organised by Niall - informative emails, follow ups etc. I recommend that everyone takes the opportunity to go, you won’t be disappointed!
Hannah Durhager
Event Attendee
This event is nourishment for my mind! The kind of subjects usually reserved for academics is now open to us all and the information is delivered in a way that anyone can understand. The audience was filled with interesting people, hungry to learn and engage in fascinating conversations. We had all day to connect, to learn and to share. Just like a delicious cool drink on a very hot day, my mind felt quenched! Thank you, Niall, for creating this. I will be back!
David Saville
Event Attendee

Tickets

Full Day Pass: £49.99

(includes VAT + Booking Fee)

Student/Unwaged: £26.99

(includes VAT + Booking Fee)

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Date and time

20/12/2020

09:30 – 17:00 GMT

Venue

Online Video Conference

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The Weekend University guarantees an excellent learning experience. If you are not fully satisfied with the day, you will receive 100% of your money back – with no questions asked. Simply contact us on support@theweekenduniversity.com to arrange your refund.

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Date and time

20/12/2020

09:30 – 17:00 GMT

Location

Online Video Conference

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If you are not fully satisfied with the day, you will receive 100% of your money back – with no questions asked. Simply contact us on support@theweekenduniversity.com to arrange your refund.

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