Introduction
This CPD will refresh the highly effective techniques of the therapeutic intervention Couple Therapy for Depression, embedded in an evidence-based and integrated theoretical framework which has produced impressive recovery rates from mild to moderate depression for patients in NHS services nationwide.
The course is led by Velia Carruthers and Sammantha Knight, who will deliver this refresher day for qualified and close to qualification CTfD practitioners working within NHSTT, focussing on the relational components of depression and clinical techniques. The model looks for causal or maintaining factors in a couple’s relationship that is triggering depression and then utilises the relationship as one of the primary resources for recovery and relapse prevention.
The event will be equivalent to 5.1/2 hrs of CPD.
Content
This clinically focused workshop will provide a refresher for experienced and recently trained CTfD therapists and will focus on how to implement the key competencies of the CTfD model.
By exploring the nuances of navigating complex emotions and interpersonal conflict within couple therapy, this insightful talk is designed for therapists and counsellors seeking to deepen their understanding and expand their toolkit for supporting couples in managing difficult dynamics.
Through case studies, theoretical frameworks, and practical interventions, Sammantha and Velia will share their expertise to help you work more effectively with emotional complexity, communication breakdowns, and recurring conflict.
Learning Objectives
• Revision of key components of the CTfD model
• Reflecting on the stance and therapeutic frame when working with couples
• Understanding emotional triggers and regulation in relationships
• Strategies for managing intense conflicts
• Encouraging ownership of actions while considering the partners perspective
• Practical tools to support connection and relationship repair employing techniques for working with couples in conflict in the room, utilising MBT-CT techniques
Training Modalities
Didactic content, videos, clinical analysis and Q&A
Key References
Couple Therapy for Depression, A clinician guide to integrative practice written by David Hewison, Christopher Clulow and Harriet Drake, Oxford University Press.
Mentalization-based Treatment for Personality Disorders, A Practical Guide written by Anthony Bateman and Pete Fonagy, Oxford University Press. Chapters 1, 6, 7 and 8
About the presenter
Velia Carruthers, Head of Couple Therapy for Depression
Velia is a couple psychodynamic psychotherapist, psychosexual therapist and senior staff member at Tavistock Relationships. Currently heading up Couple Therapy for Depression Training of NHS practitioners, Velia also sees clinical cases presenting through the centre’s general and psychosexual services, as well as within the Mentalised-Based Therapy team and the Divorce and Separation service. Velia is registered with BACP and COSRT and is a member of Tavistock Relationships’ Alumni body. Her private practice is in North London.
Sammantha Knight, Psychodynamic Psychotherapist
Sammantha is a couple and individual psychodynamic psychotherapist in private practice in London. Alongside running her private practice, Sammantha delivers training to Local Authorities on Reducing Parental Conflict, she tutors students on the IAPT High-Intensity Pilot for Couple Therapy for Depression at Tavistock Relationships, as well as training and supervising counsellors on the Couple Therapy for Depression course.
Who should attend
This one-day refresher workshop is suitable for those who have completed a five-day CTfD practitioner training and are completing or have completed accreditation casework.