Summary

In this episode of the Pro Social Podcast, Matt Watson, Zander Keig, and Amanda Smith delve into the principles of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and its application in social work. They discuss the importance of dialectical thinking in navigating emotional complexities, the significance of validation in relationships, and the necessity of self-care for social workers. The conversation emphasizes the relevance of DBT skills in managing conflict and fostering understanding in diverse social work settings, ultimately advocating for a more compassionate and effective approach to social work practice. DBT has great potential to to promote dialogue across differences and integrate competing principles and viewpoints.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dialectical Social Work

02:50 Amanda’s Journey in Mental Health

05:50 Understanding Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

08:36 The Evolution of DBT and Its Applications

11:43 Dialectical Thinking and Its Relevance

14:35 Clinical Assumptions in DBT

17:48 Applying DBT Principles to Social Work

20:39 The Importance of Support for Social Workers

23:20 Navigating Dialectics in Conversations

26:41 Finding the Middle Path in Conflicts

29:11 Respect and Understanding in Social Work

32:13 Social Justice and Dialectical Thinking

46:36 The Importance of Open Dialogue

49:03 Validation in Social Work

55:19 Strategies for Effective Validation

01:00:24 Navigating Conflict and Differences

01:08:14 The Role of Validation in Problem Solving

01:10:20 Understanding Validation and Its Misconceptions

01:13:43 Coping with Emotional Dysregulation

01:18:04 Finding Support as Social Workers

01:21:22 Self-Determination in Social Work Practice

Takeaways

DBT is an evidence-based treatment effective for various populations.

Dialectical thinking helps navigate complex emotional situations.

Social workers need to practice self-care to be effective.

Validation does not equal agreement; it acknowledges others’ perspectives.

Conflict is a natural part of social work; managing it is essential.

Practicing DBT skills can enhance emotional regulation.

Social workers should seek support from colleagues and supervisors.

Understanding different perspectives fosters healthier relationships.

Self-determination is crucial for both clients and social workers.

Dialectical thinking can help in navigating social justice issues.

ProSocial Workers is a subsidiary of the Institute for Liberal Values, a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization promoting pluralistic, free, and democratic societies. The Institute for Liberal Values is ProSocial Workers’ fiscal sponsor.

This course was recorded on October 14, 2025.

It is intended for a beginning to intermediate social worker audience. Other helping professionals may also find the content relevant to their practice.

Social workers seeking continuing education credit may learn more by going to ProSocialWorkers.com

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Creative Commons CC BY-SA 3.0

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