Child and adult specialist service providing comprehensive and adapted DBT and DBT-informed evidence-based programmes (CASCADE)
CASCADE is a specialist psychology-led therapy service offering Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) to adults aged over 25 across Birmingham and Solihull, as well as young people from 14-25 in Solihull. We are a community service designed to support those who struggle with managing their emotions and may turn to suicidal or self-harming behaviours as a way to cope.
DBT is an evidence-based therapy which is effective for a wide range of mental health problems, although it was originally developed for people with a diagnosis of Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder (also known as Borderline Personality Disorder).
The comprehensive DBT programme involves weekly individual and group sessions as well as access to telephone coaching in between sessions to help service users implement what they have learnt. The therapy helps with emotion regulation, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness and mindfulness skills.
We offer adapted and DBT-informed programmes for people who may not be ready for the commitment that the comprehensive DBT programme requires, or who have different levels or types of need. This includes a group (called 4SUPPORT) for the families, partners or carers of people with the difficulties associated with the diagnosis of EUPD.
The team also offers consultations to services within mental health services, and bespoke training to different professional groups. These are to help professionals use DBT concepts and approaches to work more effectively with people who have complex trauma or difficulties regulating emotions and managing impulsive behaviours.
Referrals are made from within secondary mental health services.
