Cross-Cultural DBT Training and the Power of Nostalgia
Nostalgia is an undefinable emotion—almost like happiness, a lot like sadness, with a hint of longing thrown in for good measure.
It is like the briefest moment of time travel. In that single instant, you experience all the memories, sentiments, and feelings you once held for something in your past—like an emotional echo.
—Ranata Suzuki
In Pixar’s newest Inside Out 2, there’s a recurring joke about Nostalgia. One character remarks: “You aren’t supposed to be here yet. You still have about 10 years, two graduations, and a best friend’s wedding before you’re invited, but I will keep you in the loop, I promise.”
For Dr. Marcus Rodriguez, however, Nostalgia showed up right on time during his recent cross-cultural DBT training journey in Beijing.
Returning to Peking University
This month, Dr. Rodriguez revisited his alma mater, Peking University. Reconnecting with former professors and colleagues was both heartwarming and meaningful. Even more so, he led a workshop on trauma-informed care for forty clinical graduate students—his 师弟师妹 (younger lab brothers and sisters).
The workshop took place in the very room where his lab once gathered during his graduate training. Being back in that space, now as a teacher guiding future clinicians, carried a wave of nostalgia and gratitude.
A Full-Circle Moment in DBT Training
Dr. Rodriguez also conducted workshops at Beijing Anding Hospital and Peking University 6th Hospital. Anding was especially significant: it was where he completed his very first clinical practicum. Walking those halls again—this time as an instructor—was both surreal and affirming.
Moments like these remind us that nostalgia can play an important role in professional growth. It bridges past and present, renews a sense of purpose, and strengthens the value of cross-cultural DBT training.
YFI’s Global and Local Mission
At the Youth & Family Institute, we believe that meaningful cross-cultural exchange strengthens the field of psychology. That’s why our team develops international trainings for professionals committed to expanding trauma-informed care worldwide. Cross-cultural DBT training is one way we help bridge evidence-based practice across communities.
Closer to home, YFI supports teens and young adults from Pasadena, Beverly Hills, San Marino, and Brentwood. Our clinicians provide evidence-based CBT and DBT therapy for depression, eating disorders, and trauma-related symptoms. We also help young people navigate anxiety, OCD, ADHD, and PTSD.
If you’re interested in bringing YFI trainings to your organization—or if you know a young person who could benefit from compassionate, evidence-based care—contact us today.
