Dialectical Behaviour (DBT) Psychologists and Therapists in Frenchs Forest, NSW

M2M Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Frenchs Forest, NSW 2086
My modalities are DBT, and Emotion Focused Ind.
Hi I'm Clare. I am currently taking new clients. I focus on clients experiencing anxiety, stress, addiction, grief, feelings of low self-worth and depression. I practice within a DBT framework, using a person centred approach. I help clients re-frame their emotional experiences working with Emotion Focused Individual Therapy, motivational interviewing, and CBT. Focusing on being present, communicating effectively and regulating emotions, clients are able to make informed choices regarding their emotions, actions, and behaviours. This leads to increased motivation, positive self-worth, and improved relationships with self and others.
My modalities are DBT, and Emotion Focused Ind.
Hi I'm Clare. I am currently taking new clients. I focus on clients experiencing anxiety, stress, addiction, grief, feelings of low self-worth and depression. I practice within a DBT framework, using a person centred approach. I help clients re-frame their emotional experiences working with Emotion Focused Individual Therapy, motivational interviewing, and CBT. Focusing on being present, communicating effectively and regulating emotions, clients are able to make informed choices regarding their emotions, actions, and behaviours. This leads to increased motivation, positive self-worth, and improved relationships with self and others.
(02) 9909 6174 View (02) 9909 6174
Thinkahead
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Frenchs Forest, NSW 2086
Are you suffering a mental health condition? Are you struggling dealing with your childs behaviour or simply need an assessment for learning difficulties/ADHD/ASD? You may simply be feeling a little lost with little direction and clarity. If this is you, then make a change today and reach out and speak to one of our clinicians. We use a multidisciplinary approach and have a team of Psychologists, Occupational Therapist, Behaviour Therapists, Speech Pathologists, Art Therapists, Learning/ Remedial Support Teachers, Physiotherapists. We see NDIS, AccessPlus, Medicare, WC, CTP, VS, EAP clients
Are you suffering a mental health condition? Are you struggling dealing with your childs behaviour or simply need an assessment for learning difficulties/ADHD/ASD? You may simply be feeling a little lost with little direction and clarity. If this is you, then make a change today and reach out and speak to one of our clinicians. We use a multidisciplinary approach and have a team of Psychologists, Occupational Therapist, Behaviour Therapists, Speech Pathologists, Art Therapists, Learning/ Remedial Support Teachers, Physiotherapists. We see NDIS, AccessPlus, Medicare, WC, CTP, VS, EAP clients
(02) 9053 4507 View (02) 9053 4507
Aaron Skilton
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Frenchs Forest, NSW 2086
I draw from a variety of therapeutic approaches including cognitive-behavioural therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, dialectical behavioural therapy, emotion coaching and parent training.
I am a clinical psychologist with immediate availability to begin treatment. I have broad experience in child and adult mental health and have worked in multiple treatment settings - the Centre for Emotional Health (child anxiety), St Vincent’s Hospital (adult anxiety, OCD, phobia, panic attacks, social anxiety), Westmead Children's Hospital (chronic illness, chronic pain), and the Sydney University Clinic (adult anxiety, depression, ADHD, family therapy). I am currently at Northern Beaches Hospital where I run in/outpatient group therapy programs, conduct assessments, and participate in clinical research.
I draw from a variety of therapeutic approaches including cognitive-behavioural therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, dialectical behavioural therapy, emotion coaching and parent training.
I am a clinical psychologist with immediate availability to begin treatment. I have broad experience in child and adult mental health and have worked in multiple treatment settings - the Centre for Emotional Health (child anxiety), St Vincent’s Hospital (adult anxiety, OCD, phobia, panic attacks, social anxiety), Westmead Children's Hospital (chronic illness, chronic pain), and the Sydney University Clinic (adult anxiety, depression, ADHD, family therapy). I am currently at Northern Beaches Hospital where I run in/outpatient group therapy programs, conduct assessments, and participate in clinical research.
(02) 8403 0826 View (02) 8403 0826
Lisa Butler
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Frenchs Forest, NSW 2086
I work with adults, helping them to cope with a range of stressful situations and the ups and downs of everyday life. This could include coping with depression, stress, anxiety, loss, family conflict, fears, career or work problems, emotional distress or relationship difficulties. I also provide trauma counselling, using a range of strategies including EMDR. I find most people are looking for help to improve their well-being, make difficult life decisions, improve relationships with others, and overcome psychological and other hurdles in life.
I work with adults, helping them to cope with a range of stressful situations and the ups and downs of everyday life. This could include coping with depression, stress, anxiety, loss, family conflict, fears, career or work problems, emotional distress or relationship difficulties. I also provide trauma counselling, using a range of strategies including EMDR. I find most people are looking for help to improve their well-being, make difficult life decisions, improve relationships with others, and overcome psychological and other hurdles in life.
(02) 9453 3474 View (02) 9453 3474
Katherine Saunders
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Katherine (she/her) is an experienced and attuned Clinical Psychologist, holding a Masters of Clinical Psychology (UTS) and an Honours degree in Liberal Arts and Sciences - Psychology (University of Sydney). She is passionate about resilience and authenticity, considering these essential components of human flourishing. Within a welcoming space, Katherine values working in partnership with clients to explore their personal history and meet their present needs. She fosters an environment of wisdom, candour and self-reflection in order to promote meaningful change and wellbeing.
Katherine (she/her) is an experienced and attuned Clinical Psychologist, holding a Masters of Clinical Psychology (UTS) and an Honours degree in Liberal Arts and Sciences - Psychology (University of Sydney). She is passionate about resilience and authenticity, considering these essential components of human flourishing. Within a welcoming space, Katherine values working in partnership with clients to explore their personal history and meet their present needs. She fosters an environment of wisdom, candour and self-reflection in order to promote meaningful change and wellbeing.
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Tara Jane King
Counsellor, PACFA
Serves Area
I am a warm Counsellor who works with adults with a range of presenting issues such as anxiety, depression, body image, addiction as well as those facing work stress or burnout, life transition adjustments, family and relationship issues. I have particular interest in exploring how earlier experiences in childhood can affect current difficulties with emotion regulation, communication and boundaries, mood, motivation, self-esteem and relationships.
I am a warm Counsellor who works with adults with a range of presenting issues such as anxiety, depression, body image, addiction as well as those facing work stress or burnout, life transition adjustments, family and relationship issues. I have particular interest in exploring how earlier experiences in childhood can affect current difficulties with emotion regulation, communication and boundaries, mood, motivation, self-esteem and relationships.
(02) 8403 1140 View (02) 8403 1140
Carolina Souto-Jones
Counsellor, PACFA
Serves Area
The therapeutic strategies and interventions I predominantly work with are the behaviour focused therapies of Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, ( DBT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR).
I draw on my many years of experience in helping clients gain skills and coping mechanism to help treat and resolve anxiety, addictions, PTSD, depression as well as grief and loss. I have extensive experience through my previous work as a group therapist in private clinics working with eating disorders, drug and alcohol, all mood disorders and DBT groups.
The therapeutic strategies and interventions I predominantly work with are the behaviour focused therapies of Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, ( DBT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR).
I draw on my many years of experience in helping clients gain skills and coping mechanism to help treat and resolve anxiety, addictions, PTSD, depression as well as grief and loss. I have extensive experience through my previous work as a group therapist in private clinics working with eating disorders, drug and alcohol, all mood disorders and DBT groups.
(02) 8403 0054 View (02) 8403 0054
Jo Roome
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
I only use evidenced-based therapies such as CBT (which includes exposure and response prevention therapy), DBT & trauma focused therapies such as EMDR
I am a clinical psychologist. I strive to improve the quality of life of the people I work with, using a compassionate, empathic & non-judgmental lens. My aim is to provide the most appropriate therapy in a collaborative way. I am an AHPRA endorsed supervisor. I am an Accredited Practitioner through the EMDR Association of Australia.
I only use evidenced-based therapies such as CBT (which includes exposure and response prevention therapy), DBT & trauma focused therapies such as EMDR
I am a clinical psychologist. I strive to improve the quality of life of the people I work with, using a compassionate, empathic & non-judgmental lens. My aim is to provide the most appropriate therapy in a collaborative way. I am an AHPRA endorsed supervisor. I am an Accredited Practitioner through the EMDR Association of Australia.
(02) 8403 0906 View (02) 8403 0906
CounsellingCo
Counsellor
Serves Area
I use techniques from CBT, DBT, ACT and schema therapy to help with thinking and beliefs; psychodynamic interpersonal therapy, narrative therapy and internal family systems to transform past experiences into empowerment, purpose and a redefined sense of self.
Hi, I’m Tamara Buchanan. I founded CounsellingCo as a person-centred, trauma-informed, evidence-based practice devoted to helping people with drug & alcohol issues, behavioural and social media addictions, executive stress, and mental health issues before they reach crisis point. I work with you to understand how early childhood, ADHD, trauma, PTSD, grief, and all experiences to date shape your emotions, beliefs, mood and behaviours. I will gently challenge and empower you to move forward. If you have tried everything but therapy, CounsellingCo is your first step to making a positive change.
I use techniques from CBT, DBT, ACT and schema therapy to help with thinking and beliefs; psychodynamic interpersonal therapy, narrative therapy and internal family systems to transform past experiences into empowerment, purpose and a redefined sense of self.
Hi, I’m Tamara Buchanan. I founded CounsellingCo as a person-centred, trauma-informed, evidence-based practice devoted to helping people with drug & alcohol issues, behavioural and social media addictions, executive stress, and mental health issues before they reach crisis point. I work with you to understand how early childhood, ADHD, trauma, PTSD, grief, and all experiences to date shape your emotions, beliefs, mood and behaviours. I will gently challenge and empower you to move forward. If you have tried everything but therapy, CounsellingCo is your first step to making a positive change.
(02) 8319 1091 View (02) 8319 1091
Chasing Sunrise Wellbeing
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Serves Area
As a Master’s qualified Counsellor and Health and Wellbeing Coach, I offer warm, professional support to adolescents and parents navigating life’s challenges. With over a decade of experience, I draw on evidence-based approaches within a strengths-based, trauma-informed framework, including CBT, ACT, somatic strategies, and solution-focused therapy. I’m passionate about helping young people build confidence and emotional regulation and supporting parents to feel more equipped and connected. I offer 1:1 counselling, parent support, and school-based wellbeing programs through Chasing Sunrise Wellbeing.
As a Master’s qualified Counsellor and Health and Wellbeing Coach, I offer warm, professional support to adolescents and parents navigating life’s challenges. With over a decade of experience, I draw on evidence-based approaches within a strengths-based, trauma-informed framework, including CBT, ACT, somatic strategies, and solution-focused therapy. I’m passionate about helping young people build confidence and emotional regulation and supporting parents to feel more equipped and connected. I offer 1:1 counselling, parent support, and school-based wellbeing programs through Chasing Sunrise Wellbeing.
0411 045 593 View 0411 045 593
Katrina Helene
Psychotherapist, MA, AMHSW
Serves Area
I have a very natural approach where I primarily use Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, ACT, DBT, CBT and Mindfulness as my go-to therapy styles.
Feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, experienced trauma? Maybe you feel shutdown, on edge, have anger, or your emotions jump from 0-100 in a second. Or perhaps you're having relationship/other issues. With 20+ years’ counselling experience, I bring a wealth of knowhow plus a gamut of tools & strategies to help you. If you're in a tough patch & just talking isn't changing things, an experienced therapist with years of experience can help navigate it all to bring peace & resolution. Someone warm, incisive, calm, with a good ear, & who is highly skilled to work with the issues at hand, will get you there. I will bring just that.
I have a very natural approach where I primarily use Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, ACT, DBT, CBT and Mindfulness as my go-to therapy styles.
Feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, experienced trauma? Maybe you feel shutdown, on edge, have anger, or your emotions jump from 0-100 in a second. Or perhaps you're having relationship/other issues. With 20+ years’ counselling experience, I bring a wealth of knowhow plus a gamut of tools & strategies to help you. If you're in a tough patch & just talking isn't changing things, an experienced therapist with years of experience can help navigate it all to bring peace & resolution. Someone warm, incisive, calm, with a good ear, & who is highly skilled to work with the issues at hand, will get you there. I will bring just that.
(02) 8403 1758 View (02) 8403 1758

More Therapists Nearby

Chantelle Martyn
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Randwick, NSW 2031
I draw upon a range of evidence-based treatments, including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Schema Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy.
I am a Clinical Psychologist at Support Space Psychology in Randwick and Castle Hill. While I have experience in treating a wide range of mental health difficulties, my main passion is helping those suffering from anxiety disorders and obsessive-compulsive and related disorders. This interest was reflected in my research at both an undergraduate and postgraduate level and further developed while working at the Anxiety Treatment and Research Unit at Cumberland Hospital.
I draw upon a range of evidence-based treatments, including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Schema Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy.
I am a Clinical Psychologist at Support Space Psychology in Randwick and Castle Hill. While I have experience in treating a wide range of mental health difficulties, my main passion is helping those suffering from anxiety disorders and obsessive-compulsive and related disorders. This interest was reflected in my research at both an undergraduate and postgraduate level and further developed while working at the Anxiety Treatment and Research Unit at Cumberland Hospital.
(02) 9100 0294 View (02) 9100 0294
Mind Bloom Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Online Only
We use a mix of therapies including: CBT, Solutions Focused, Motivational Interviewing, ACT , Interpersonal Therapy and DBT
I am an open-minded LGBTIQA+ friendly, neurodivergent-affirming psychologist who approaches care from a compassionate and client-centred approach, believing every client is the expert on their own life. I value authenticity, compassion and curiosity and am committed to collaborating with clients and tailoring sessions to individual needs, combining evidence-based practises with compassionate care. We can work together to support you on your mental health journey and assist you with the tools to build self-understanding, resilience, coping skills, improve emotional regulation, and empower you towards insight and positive changes
We use a mix of therapies including: CBT, Solutions Focused, Motivational Interviewing, ACT , Interpersonal Therapy and DBT
I am an open-minded LGBTIQA+ friendly, neurodivergent-affirming psychologist who approaches care from a compassionate and client-centred approach, believing every client is the expert on their own life. I value authenticity, compassion and curiosity and am committed to collaborating with clients and tailoring sessions to individual needs, combining evidence-based practises with compassionate care. We can work together to support you on your mental health journey and assist you with the tools to build self-understanding, resilience, coping skills, improve emotional regulation, and empower you towards insight and positive changes
0493 064 243 View 0493 064 243
Allie McGrath Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Online Only
I offer diagnostic assessments for ADHD/ASD, as well as intervention sessions that are goals-focused using evidence-based interventions like CBT, ACT, DBT & IFS.
I love working with neurodivergent people! I have a passion for ADHD and ASD assessments because I believe in accessibility. If also enjoy working with people wanting to understand anxiety/depression, perfectionism, procrastination, body image or disordered eating. If you want to learn who you are, feel less stuck, find tools and gain confidence then please message me! I love working with people who are curious, open and want a psychologist who works alongside you as a team mate :)
I offer diagnostic assessments for ADHD/ASD, as well as intervention sessions that are goals-focused using evidence-based interventions like CBT, ACT, DBT & IFS.
I love working with neurodivergent people! I have a passion for ADHD and ASD assessments because I believe in accessibility. If also enjoy working with people wanting to understand anxiety/depression, perfectionism, procrastination, body image or disordered eating. If you want to learn who you are, feel less stuck, find tools and gain confidence then please message me! I love working with people who are curious, open and want a psychologist who works alongside you as a team mate :)
(07) 4074 9304 View (07) 4074 9304
Sydney Mind & Wellness/Amanda Browne
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Edgecliff, NSW 2027
Therapies: Interpersonal therapy, Trauma-informed therapy, DBT, ACT, Schema Therapy, EMDR, IFS, CBT, M-CBT, Psychoeducation/counselling for families bereaved by suicide, Treatment for Addiction, Health psychology specialising in Women's Health issues
I am privileged to see any person 16yrs & over for assessment, treatment & therapy for a wide range of issues/diagnoses. I see families, for psychoeducation & coping skills who have loved ones experiencing addiction, risk behaviours/suicide/suicide bereavement. Any person who is curious to develop an understanding of themselves & better cope with symptoms, mental health diagnoses. I believe in a supportive & tailored model of therapy, using evidence based treatment, I am friendly, dedicated clinician who thoroughly enjoys helping others achieve their goals in therapy & seeing new skills applied with some amazing outcomes in life.
Therapies: Interpersonal therapy, Trauma-informed therapy, DBT, ACT, Schema Therapy, EMDR, IFS, CBT, M-CBT, Psychoeducation/counselling for families bereaved by suicide, Treatment for Addiction, Health psychology specialising in Women's Health issues
I am privileged to see any person 16yrs & over for assessment, treatment & therapy for a wide range of issues/diagnoses. I see families, for psychoeducation & coping skills who have loved ones experiencing addiction, risk behaviours/suicide/suicide bereavement. Any person who is curious to develop an understanding of themselves & better cope with symptoms, mental health diagnoses. I believe in a supportive & tailored model of therapy, using evidence based treatment, I am friendly, dedicated clinician who thoroughly enjoys helping others achieve their goals in therapy & seeing new skills applied with some amazing outcomes in life.
0466 320 023 View 0466 320 023
Jameema John
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Online Only
At Inner Grace Psychology, I support young adults and adults who may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, stressed, emotionally weighed down, or unsure how to move forward through a difficult season of life. People may come to therapy for many reasons — sometimes because life feels heavy, relationships feel challenging, emotions feel hard to manage, or they simply need a safe space to talk and be heard. My role is to gently support you as we explore what you are experiencing, understand what may be contributing to it, and work together toward practical steps that help you build clarity, inner strength, and emotional wellbeing.
At Inner Grace Psychology, I support young adults and adults who may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, stressed, emotionally weighed down, or unsure how to move forward through a difficult season of life. People may come to therapy for many reasons — sometimes because life feels heavy, relationships feel challenging, emotions feel hard to manage, or they simply need a safe space to talk and be heard. My role is to gently support you as we explore what you are experiencing, understand what may be contributing to it, and work together toward practical steps that help you build clarity, inner strength, and emotional wellbeing.
(03) 6164 5480 View (03) 6164 5480
Shadi Gray
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Canterbury, NSW 2193
Expertise in DBT, RODBT, CBT, Schema Therapy, Gottman, I empower clients through their struggles.
A Psychologist Who Leads with Authenticity and Compassion. I'm a dedicated Sydney-based psychologist known for my radical authenticity and deep commitment to helping individuals and couples navigate mental health and relationship challenges. I creates a genuine, supportive space where real change happens embracing discomfort as a catalyst for growth. With a compassionate yet direct approach, I help clients break through emotional barriers, uncover new perspectives, and develop lasting strategies for well-being.
Expertise in DBT, RODBT, CBT, Schema Therapy, Gottman, I empower clients through their struggles.
A Psychologist Who Leads with Authenticity and Compassion. I'm a dedicated Sydney-based psychologist known for my radical authenticity and deep commitment to helping individuals and couples navigate mental health and relationship challenges. I creates a genuine, supportive space where real change happens embracing discomfort as a catalyst for growth. With a compassionate yet direct approach, I help clients break through emotional barriers, uncover new perspectives, and develop lasting strategies for well-being.
(02) 8000 0767 View (02) 8000 0767
Renata Bogomolets
Counsellor, PACFA
Sutherland, NSW 2232
My approach informed by many modalities including expressive therapies (such as art therapy), DBT, somatic therapy and mindfulness.
I’m a qualified counsellor and psychotherapist registered with PACFA. I don’t believe in clinical distance or wearing a mask of expertise that puts me above you. I meet you human-to-human — with empathy, honesty, and care. My approach is holistic and integrative, meaning I tailor our work to suit you, not the other way around. Together, we create a space where it’s safe to feel, to speak, to unravel — and ultimately, to grow. I bring both evidence-based modalities and deep compassion to each session, weaving in practices that support not only the mind, but the body, heart, and soul. You don’t have to do it alone.
My approach informed by many modalities including expressive therapies (such as art therapy), DBT, somatic therapy and mindfulness.
I’m a qualified counsellor and psychotherapist registered with PACFA. I don’t believe in clinical distance or wearing a mask of expertise that puts me above you. I meet you human-to-human — with empathy, honesty, and care. My approach is holistic and integrative, meaning I tailor our work to suit you, not the other way around. Together, we create a space where it’s safe to feel, to speak, to unravel — and ultimately, to grow. I bring both evidence-based modalities and deep compassion to each session, weaving in practices that support not only the mind, but the body, heart, and soul. You don’t have to do it alone.
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Joelle Fa
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Winston Hills, NSW 2153
I utilise a range of evidence-based treatments including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Schema Therapy and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, tailored to the individual and their goals.
Getting to hear and know my clients’ stories is an incredible privilege. I see therapy as a partnership, where we work as a team to get you to where you want to be. Offering my clients hope and restoration even in the midst of the most difficult seasons is one of my greatest joys. I have worked in hospital inpatient and community settings, universities and in various private practice settings. When I am not seeing clients, I enjoy training and supervising clinicians in treatment of eating disorders through my role at the InsideOut Institute.
I utilise a range of evidence-based treatments including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Schema Therapy and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, tailored to the individual and their goals.
Getting to hear and know my clients’ stories is an incredible privilege. I see therapy as a partnership, where we work as a team to get you to where you want to be. Offering my clients hope and restoration even in the midst of the most difficult seasons is one of my greatest joys. I have worked in hospital inpatient and community settings, universities and in various private practice settings. When I am not seeing clients, I enjoy training and supervising clinicians in treatment of eating disorders through my role at the InsideOut Institute.
(02) 8609 3761 View (02) 8609 3761
Arzu Aksu Chapman
Counsellor, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Sydney, NSW 2000
You, seeking understanding and connection in a world that often feels overwhelming. My ideal client navigates the intricate landscape of neurodivergence—be it ADHD, Autism, or related experiences. In couples, I welcome those facing unique dynamics, including neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ pairs. Your issues may vary, but the core need is universal: a safe space to explore challenges, cultivate understanding, and forge a path towards fulfillment. As a passionate therapist specializing in neurodiversity and couples therapy, my approach transcends conventional methods. Let's embark on a journey where acceptance and growth intersect.
You, seeking understanding and connection in a world that often feels overwhelming. My ideal client navigates the intricate landscape of neurodivergence—be it ADHD, Autism, or related experiences. In couples, I welcome those facing unique dynamics, including neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ pairs. Your issues may vary, but the core need is universal: a safe space to explore challenges, cultivate understanding, and forge a path towards fulfillment. As a passionate therapist specializing in neurodiversity and couples therapy, my approach transcends conventional methods. Let's embark on a journey where acceptance and growth intersect.
(02) 8403 1928 View (02) 8403 1928

See more therapy options for Frenchs Forest

Dialectical Behaviour (DBT) Therapists
Who is DBT for?
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) is designed for people who experience extreme emotional suffering because they lack the skills of emotion regulation and distress tolerance. The basic affliction can underlie a wide range of conditions, from borderline and other personality disorders to PTSD and treatment-resistant anxiety and depression. The therapy is helpful to those whose emotional reactivity is so intense it is disruptive to everyday functioning and leads to frequent crises.

Why do people need DBT?
The ability to regulate emotions is a core psychological skill that enables people to function in life and pay attention to the world outside themselves; it is consistently associated with well-being. DBT is designed to help people learn how to manage and regulate their emotions. Originally developed to treat people with borderline personality disorder whose extreme emotional suffering led to self-harming behaviour and suicide attempts, the therapy is now applied to other conditions involving emotion dysregulation, particularly when other treatments have failed.

What happens in DBT?
Individuals meet weekly with their therapist to discuss their experiences relating to moods, behaviour, and skills. Using checklists they maintain, they review emotional experiences and positive practices they engage in. The diaries help individuals discern what led up to a specific problem encountered, this is followed by discussion of the consequences of their actions. In addition, individuals may meet in class-like small groups to learn skills such as mindfulness, emotion regulation and distress tolerance.

How long does DBT last?
Because it is intended to establish long-lasting behavioural change among those with persistent problems, DBT is designed to last six months to a year. DBT includes both weekly sessions of individual therapy and weekly skills-training sessions conducted in small groups. Studies of DBT have documented improvement within a year of treatment, particularly in controlling self-harmful behaviour; nevertheless, individuals may require therapy for several years.