Who is this course for?
This foundation training is ideal for mental health professionals, community workers, social workers, psychologists, counsellors, nurses, educators, and students in health and social sciences who wish to integrate dialogical and humanistic practices into mental health services. It is suited for those working in clinical, educational, and community-based settings.
Participants will gain foundational skills in applying dialogic practices, enhancing communication, and leading collaborative interventions. So far, four batches have completed the course through the Banyan Academy of Leadership in Mental Health and Madras School of Social Work.
6 months
Course Duration
Hybrid
Delivery
English
Medium of Teaching
155 Hours
Time Commitment
The Open Dialogue Foundation Course introduces participants to a compassionate, community-based approach to mental health care. Developed in Finland, Open Dialogue emphasizes collaboration, inclusion of families and support networks, and transparent decision-making through dialogic conversations. This approach aligns well with India’s collectivist culture, making it relevant for our context.
It has transformed mental health care for individuals experiencing persistent mental illness. This humanistic and democratic approach blends family therapy and psychotherapy and is used for reducing hospitalisation rates by up to 90%. It supports open conversations among individuals, carers, and mental health professionals, allowing for inclusive, transparent, and non-directive decision-making in the recovery journey.
The course is delivered in a hybrid format across four blocks, with two in-person and two online sessions. It combines lectures, shared practices, and personal reflection, allowing participants to engage deeply with dialogical principles while applying them in real-world settings. The medium of instruction is English, and the time commitment.
About the Course
About the Course
Trauma affects individuals and communities in deep and lasting ways, especially in contexts of marginalisation, displacement, abuse and mental illness. This short course—jointly developed by BALM and The Banyan—offers foundational understanding and practical tools for Trauma-Informed Practice in mental healthcare.
Drawing from global best practices and The Banyan’s local expertise, the course prepares participants to understand, respond to and support healing from trauma in diverse and resource-constrained settings.
What You'll Learn
Instructional Methods
Learner Reflections
Apply Online & Support Guidance
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