Working with Young People who Self-Harm (Fully Accredited)

An Introductory Course for Professionals and Family Members

Ongoing Professional Development: This course provides the knowledge and skills to improve performance in this area, offering 10 hours of valuable learning and professional development, as evidenced on the certificate issued upon completion.

Live Streamed Availability: This course and a range of other related courses can be delivered to groups of between 6 and 25 people via Live Streaming with Zoom. Contact Kevin O’Doherty for more details on pricing and availability etc.

This fully accredited course, recognized by the International Association of Therapists (IAOTH), offers a thorough and insightful introduction to the sensitive and complex issue of self-harm, with a particular focus on working with and supporting young people who engage in self-harming behaviors. Upon completion, students will receive a certificate confirming their understanding and preparedness to address self-harm in a supportive and therapeutic manner.

The course provides an in-depth exploration of the following key areas:

• Understanding Why Young People Self-Harm: Gain insight into the psychological, emotional, and social factors that lead young people to engage in self-harming behaviors. Explore the underlying reasons, such as coping with trauma, managing intense emotions, or gaining control over an uncontrollable situation.

• Recognizing Self-Harm: Learn how to identify signs of self-harm, including physical indicators and behavioral patterns that may suggest a young person is engaging in this activity. This includes both visible and non-visible forms of self-harm.

• Triggers and Predictors of Self-Harm: Explore common triggers that lead to self-harming behaviors, such as stress, bullying, family dynamics, mental health issues, or significant life changes. Learn how to recognize early warning signs that may indicate an increased risk for self-harm.

• Interventions and Therapeutic Modalities: The course focuses on evidence-based interventions and therapeutic approaches that have proven effective in helping individuals who self-harm. We will explore Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and other therapeutic techniques commonly used in the treatment of self-harm, along with their practical application.

• Supporting Young People: Learn the best strategies for supporting young people who self-harm, both in a therapeutic setting and as a friend, family member, or colleague. We will look at how to foster a non-judgmental and safe environment, communicate effectively, and build trust.

• Quality Standards and Best Practices: Explore the quality standards and guidelines for services offering support to individuals who self-harm. Understand the importance of creating accessible, appropriate, and effective services for young people, ensuring they receive the necessary care and resources.

The teaching style is relaxed, informal, and professional, designed to make complex issues more accessible and approachable. Throughout the course, you will be encouraged to reflect on the material, engage in thoughtful discussion with colleagues or peers, and reach out to the course instructor, Kevin O'Doherty, for any clarifications or questions you may have. Kevin is also open to feedback and encourages students to share their perspectives on the topics covered.

Kevin O'Doherty is an experienced Psychologist, Forensic Mental Health Expert Witness, and CBT Therapist with over 20 years of practical experience in the mental health field. His depth of knowledge and hands-on expertise in working with individuals who self-harm allows him to offer students a comprehensive, real-world understanding of this critical issue.

The course is also available for live streaming and face-to-face sessions upon request, making it accessible to both individuals and organizations seeking to enhance their understanding and skills in supporting young people who self-harm.

This course is an excellent resource for anyone with a personal or professional interest in the topic of self-harm, whether you're a mental health professional, educator, social worker, or someone seeking to better understand and support those affected by self-harming behaviors.