Here at British Isles DBT Training, we have an incredible team that work together seamlessly to ensure you receive the best of the best. We thought it may be a great opportunity to introduce you to them in a little series. Today, we are sharing our second post of phenomenal team of experts in the field. Introducing Mark Richards, a trainer here at British Isles DBT Training.
What is the best thing about being part of the British Isles DBT team?
I love the opportunity to work with and listen to a group of passionate and committed DBT therapists.
Why did you choose to become a trainer?
I enjoy teaching the skills to my clients and NHS colleagues and wanted to learn how to do this more effectively. Since joining biDBT, the teaching of skills in my own team has improved and my confidence as a DBT therapist has increased.
What do you enjoy most about training with biDBT?
There is a fantastically supportive and positive ethos within the team and every effort is made at every event to help other therapists develop their skills.
What advice would you give to new DBT therapists?
Record your sessions and review them as a team whenever you can. Work at teaching the skills in a fun and engaging way and attend other DBT events.
What is your favourite course to deliver and why?
The National Foundation is particularly wonderful as all the delegates are as committed as us and so the questions, interactions and engagement are always fantastic. After that, I do love the explosiveness of the Essentials and the depth of the Emotion Regulation course.
What do you enjoy doing when you’re not working?
I love being outdoors, particularly in the mountains and spend time climbing, mountaineering, cycling and walking. I love engaging in all of these activities with my family and friends.
What is a fun fact about yourself?
Once, whilst living in London, I met a lovely young woman pushing her pram as I walked home from work. I recognised her but couldn’t place her name and so assumed she was a friend of my flatmate. I said ‘hello’ and we chatted for some time. Once home, I told my flatmate who tried to work out who it was. It wasn’t till later, as we sat down to watch an episode of friends, that I realised it was Helen Baxendale! Guess I’m better at teaching than recognising the famous!
Who would you most like to swap places with for the day?
Harry Potter because it would be ace to be able to do magic for a day and fly on a broomstick!
What has been your biggest achievement?
Probably raising a child who is confident and kind. Work-wise, it would be keeping our DBT programme running for the last 15 years, almost without interruption!