Julie Hayden, MSW, RSW, Executive Director at Dialectical Living, was recognized with the 2021 Ontario Association of Social Workers (OASW) Inspirational Leader Award. Her profile highlights her work in DBT education, her creative approach to online learning, and her commitment to supporting individuals, families, and fellow professionals.
Making DBT Accessible Online
Dialectical Living offers Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) to individuals, their families, agencies, and clinicians. Julie’s use of technology to offer virtual DBT skills groups was established before the pandemic and expanded to include a go-at-your-own-pace DBT School.
By bringing technology and creativity together, Julie has helped make DBT education engaging, interactive, and accessible. Her approach offers different ways for people to connect with DBT skills and participate in learning.
Creative Ways to Learn and Practise
The OASW’s 2021 profile highlighted several resources Julie has developed, including a DBT video series, a DBT skills colouring book, and a DBT Skills reminder booklet available on Amazon. At the time, she was also working on a documentary entitled Life on DBT.
These projects reflect her interest in sharing DBT through different formats, giving people opportunities to explore and revisit skills beyond a traditional group setting.
Supporting Connection During the Pandemic
Beginning in the early months of the pandemic, Julie facilitated a weekly Coping with COVID online support group for people with some familiarity with DBT skills.
The group offered a space for connection and support during a period of uncertainty, bringing people together through an online format.
Leadership That Supports Others
Julie’s contributions also include leadership, mentorship, and capacity building to support the delivery of DBT skills groups, including the involvement of people with lived experience.
Her OASW profile recognized the countless unpaid hours she spent helping organizations in Canada and abroad bring their programs online. By sharing her knowledge, Julie supported other organizations in adapting their services and maintaining connections with the people they serve.
Recognizing an Inspirational Leader
Julie’s 2021 recognition celebrates the creativity and care she brings to DBT education. Her work highlights the many ways that technology, mentorship, and accessible learning can help people connect with skills and support.
To explore Dialectical Living’s programs, visit dialecticalliving.ca.
This article reflects the work described in Julie Hayden’s 2021 OASW Inspirational Leader profile. Projects and services mentioned are presented in that historical context.
