Dialectical Behaviour (DBT) Psychologists and Therapists in Caulfield South, VIC

Photo of Li Lian Koh, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Li Lian Koh
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Online Only
Li Lian utilises a client-focused and strengths-based approach to therapy, and draws upon a range of evidenced-based strategies, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy ( DBT), Schema Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness.
[Telehealth only]. Li Lian is a registered Clinical Psychologist who works primarily with older adolescents and adults, and enjoys working with clients of differing cultural backgrounds and presenting issues. She has experience working with anxiety disorders, depression, PTSD, anger management, addictions, as well as criminal and offending behaviours. Li Lian ensures that she creates a warm, empathetic and non-judgemental space for clients. She encourages open and honest communication to ensure that clients feel comfortable in sharing their thoughts, feelings, behaviours and any feedback about the process.
Li Lian utilises a client-focused and strengths-based approach to therapy, and draws upon a range of evidenced-based strategies, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy ( DBT), Schema Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness.
[Telehealth only]. Li Lian is a registered Clinical Psychologist who works primarily with older adolescents and adults, and enjoys working with clients of differing cultural backgrounds and presenting issues. She has experience working with anxiety disorders, depression, PTSD, anger management, addictions, as well as criminal and offending behaviours. Li Lian ensures that she creates a warm, empathetic and non-judgemental space for clients. She encourages open and honest communication to ensure that clients feel comfortable in sharing their thoughts, feelings, behaviours and any feedback about the process.
(03) 7003 2061 View (03) 7003 2061
Photo of Kay-Sheree Spurling, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Kay-Sheree Spurling
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Caulfield South, VIC 3162
I use Interpersonal Therapy, CBT, ACT, DBT and Schema Therapy with a person entered approach to therapy.
I am currently seeing clients in Melbourne and rural Victoria from all walks of life. I love being a psychologist because I am a curious person who enjoys learning about people, while helping them get to know themselves, their strengths and challenges. I try to make therapy safe, effective, enjoyable, emotional and may even get laugh in. I offer sessions online for people in rural Victoria and have experience working with client's in the Mallee and Alpine regions. I also have client's from all over Melbourne, north and south of the river. I am able to travel to see some client's with appropriate NDIS funding.
I use Interpersonal Therapy, CBT, ACT, DBT and Schema Therapy with a person entered approach to therapy.
I am currently seeing clients in Melbourne and rural Victoria from all walks of life. I love being a psychologist because I am a curious person who enjoys learning about people, while helping them get to know themselves, their strengths and challenges. I try to make therapy safe, effective, enjoyable, emotional and may even get laugh in. I offer sessions online for people in rural Victoria and have experience working with client's in the Mallee and Alpine regions. I also have client's from all over Melbourne, north and south of the river. I am able to travel to see some client's with appropriate NDIS funding.
0478 367 515 View 0478 367 515
Photo of Melissa Jane Moss, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Melissa Jane Moss
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Caulfield South, VIC 3162
Finding a therapist who can deeply attune to you and creatively integrate approaches that truly align with your needs can be really hard. It often takes energy from every part of your life- especially when you’re already running on empty. I want to reassure you that I understand, both professionally and personally, just how crucial this stage is. That’s why I’ve made it a priority to ensure this part of the process feels as welcoming and informative as possible. ​
Finding a therapist who can deeply attune to you and creatively integrate approaches that truly align with your needs can be really hard. It often takes energy from every part of your life- especially when you’re already running on empty. I want to reassure you that I understand, both professionally and personally, just how crucial this stage is. That’s why I’ve made it a priority to ensure this part of the process feels as welcoming and informative as possible. ​
(03) 7003 2037 View (03) 7003 2037
Photo of Philip Yazbek, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Philip Yazbek
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Caulfield South, VIC 3162
I take an integrative approach to therapy, drawing from EMDR, ACT, DBT skills and trauma-informed therapy.
You may have been pushing through for a while now — feeling on edge, burnt out, or affected by things that haven’t fully settled. You might not be sure how to explain it, only that something doesn’t feel quite right. If you’ve tried therapy before and it didn’t quite land, or you felt unsure about going back, you’re not alone. Therapy here offers a space to slow down, make sense of what’s going on, feel heard, and begin finding a way forward that feels more workable.
I take an integrative approach to therapy, drawing from EMDR, ACT, DBT skills and trauma-informed therapy.
You may have been pushing through for a while now — feeling on edge, burnt out, or affected by things that haven’t fully settled. You might not be sure how to explain it, only that something doesn’t feel quite right. If you’ve tried therapy before and it didn’t quite land, or you felt unsure about going back, you’re not alone. Therapy here offers a space to slow down, make sense of what’s going on, feel heard, and begin finding a way forward that feels more workable.
0433 786 685 x4 View 0433 786 685 x4
Photo of Deborah Cameron, Psychotherapist, MC, PACFA
Deborah Cameron
Psychotherapist, MC, PACFA
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
You may be seeking support through individual therapy or by joining a small supportive group where you can feel safe, understood, and accepted. For some, this includes healing from trauma related to sexual violence, incest, or other forms of sexual, physical, or psychological abuse, which may still shape how safe the world and relationships feel. You may also be neurodivergent—living with ADHD, autism, OCD, or dyslexia—or navigating anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder and feeling misunderstood or exhausted from trying to meet expectations that do not align with who you truly are and needing a safe and confidential place.
You may be seeking support through individual therapy or by joining a small supportive group where you can feel safe, understood, and accepted. For some, this includes healing from trauma related to sexual violence, incest, or other forms of sexual, physical, or psychological abuse, which may still shape how safe the world and relationships feel. You may also be neurodivergent—living with ADHD, autism, OCD, or dyslexia—or navigating anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder and feeling misunderstood or exhausted from trying to meet expectations that do not align with who you truly are and needing a safe and confidential place.
(03) 7003 2799 View (03) 7003 2799
Photo of Noah Noam Mankowitz - ADHD Melbourne, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
ADHD Melbourne
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
ADHD Melbourne is a practice dedicated to supporting adults, adolescents, and children navigating ADHD, ASD and related challenges. We understand that ADHD is not simply about attention or organisation, it affects emotions, relationships, work, study, self-esteem, and daily life in deeply personal ways. Our approach is strengths-based, neuroaffirming, and evidence-informed. We recognise that every ADHD brain is different, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. ADHD Melbourne conducted formal assessment for both ADHD and ASD for ages 6 and above.
ADHD Melbourne is a practice dedicated to supporting adults, adolescents, and children navigating ADHD, ASD and related challenges. We understand that ADHD is not simply about attention or organisation, it affects emotions, relationships, work, study, self-esteem, and daily life in deeply personal ways. Our approach is strengths-based, neuroaffirming, and evidence-informed. We recognise that every ADHD brain is different, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. ADHD Melbourne conducted formal assessment for both ADHD and ASD for ages 6 and above.
(03) 7003 2140 View (03) 7003 2140
Photo of Rachel Burchell, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Rachel Burchell
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
With experience in CBT, ACT, DBT, Schema Therapy and mindfulness techniques, I work collaboratively with clients to create lasting change.
I work with adults facing a range of challenges including adjusting to life changes, anxiety, career transitions, chronic illness, depression, grief, parenting struggles, relationship difficulties, self-esteem issues and substance use. I support clients in managing stress, worry, and mood disorders, helping them regain control and well-being. I have a special interest in supporting parents, including those navigating the transition to parenthood. As a trained Circle of Security Parent Educator, I apply attachment-based strategies to help parents attune to their children’s emotional needs, fostering secure, nurturing relationships.
With experience in CBT, ACT, DBT, Schema Therapy and mindfulness techniques, I work collaboratively with clients to create lasting change.
I work with adults facing a range of challenges including adjusting to life changes, anxiety, career transitions, chronic illness, depression, grief, parenting struggles, relationship difficulties, self-esteem issues and substance use. I support clients in managing stress, worry, and mood disorders, helping them regain control and well-being. I have a special interest in supporting parents, including those navigating the transition to parenthood. As a trained Circle of Security Parent Educator, I apply attachment-based strategies to help parents attune to their children’s emotional needs, fostering secure, nurturing relationships.
0416 261 825 View 0416 261 825
Photo of Dr Maddy Fernando, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Maddy Fernando
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
I draw on ACT, DBT, CFT, EMDR, and gentle body-based approaches like vagus nerve yoga to support regulation and healing, especially after complex trauma.
Hi, I’m Maddy—a senior clinical psychologist helping children, young people, and adults create lives that feel steadier, more connected, and more fulfilling. With younger clients, I use playful, creative approaches to make therapy engaging; with adults, our work is reflective, practical, and empowering. I help with common challenges like anxiety, low mood, stress, and adjusting to major life changes, as well as more complex concerns including trauma recovery, navigating neurodivergence (i.e ADHD, autism), borderline personality disorder, eating disorders, and obsessive or compulsive behaviours—focusing on meaningful, lasting change.
I draw on ACT, DBT, CFT, EMDR, and gentle body-based approaches like vagus nerve yoga to support regulation and healing, especially after complex trauma.
Hi, I’m Maddy—a senior clinical psychologist helping children, young people, and adults create lives that feel steadier, more connected, and more fulfilling. With younger clients, I use playful, creative approaches to make therapy engaging; with adults, our work is reflective, practical, and empowering. I help with common challenges like anxiety, low mood, stress, and adjusting to major life changes, as well as more complex concerns including trauma recovery, navigating neurodivergence (i.e ADHD, autism), borderline personality disorder, eating disorders, and obsessive or compulsive behaviours—focusing on meaningful, lasting change.
0426 415 617 View 0426 415 617
Photo of Richard Norrish, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Endorsed
Richard Norrish
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA Endorsed
Serves Area
He also uses CBT, DBT and Mindfulness models.
Richard aims to help clients achieve an improved quality of life, working towards a greater sense of personal control. With 20 years’ experience in counselling and clinical settings, he provides a supportive, non-judgmental and confidential space. He works collaboratively with the client in tailoring therapy to their unique set of circumstances. Therapy may range from a few sessions when targeting a specific problem, to medium and longer-term therapy when addressing long-held problematic behaviours, interpersonal patterns and emotion difficulties.
He also uses CBT, DBT and Mindfulness models.
Richard aims to help clients achieve an improved quality of life, working towards a greater sense of personal control. With 20 years’ experience in counselling and clinical settings, he provides a supportive, non-judgmental and confidential space. He works collaboratively with the client in tailoring therapy to their unique set of circumstances. Therapy may range from a few sessions when targeting a specific problem, to medium and longer-term therapy when addressing long-held problematic behaviours, interpersonal patterns and emotion difficulties.
(03) 9068 5866 View (03) 9068 5866
Photo of Thomas Rosser, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Thomas Rosser
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
In particular, I have training in trauma treatment using EMDR, and training in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy ( DBT) for clients with BPD.
Clarity Health Care (CHC) provides comprehensive mental health care through a unified team of psychologists, clinical psychologists, and psychiatrists, all working towards your emotional well-being and mental clarity. At our Fitzroy and Hobart clinics, we offer a serene, supportive environment for individuals, couples, and families. Whether you’re managing anxiety, depression, stress, or relationship challenges, our experienced therapists are here to guide you. Our team includes some of the most skilled professionals in Melbourne and Hobart.
In particular, I have training in trauma treatment using EMDR, and training in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy ( DBT) for clients with BPD.
Clarity Health Care (CHC) provides comprehensive mental health care through a unified team of psychologists, clinical psychologists, and psychiatrists, all working towards your emotional well-being and mental clarity. At our Fitzroy and Hobart clinics, we offer a serene, supportive environment for individuals, couples, and families. Whether you’re managing anxiety, depression, stress, or relationship challenges, our experienced therapists are here to guide you. Our team includes some of the most skilled professionals in Melbourne and Hobart.
(03) 9448 8028 View (03) 9448 8028

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Min (Erica) Li, Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Min (Erica) Li
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Serves Area
I integrate various evidence -based, humanistic, and neurobiological approaches to provide person-centred, holistic support, such as Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy ( DBT), EMDR, Polyvagal theory, Schema-informed approach, CBT, etc
At Colourful Clouds Counselling & Wellbeing, I respect my clients as the expert of their own experience and draw on trauma-informed, strengths-focused, evidence-based approaches—tailored with a personal, creative touch, through an approach of holistic, body-mind-culture connectedness.
I integrate various evidence -based, humanistic, and neurobiological approaches to provide person-centred, holistic support, such as Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy ( DBT), EMDR, Polyvagal theory, Schema-informed approach, CBT, etc
At Colourful Clouds Counselling & Wellbeing, I respect my clients as the expert of their own experience and draw on trauma-informed, strengths-focused, evidence-based approaches—tailored with a personal, creative touch, through an approach of holistic, body-mind-culture connectedness.
(08) 7008 9476 View (08) 7008 9476
Photo of Rosanna Giorno, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Rosanna Giorno
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Scoresby, VIC 3179
I am a compassionate, empathic and intuitive counsellor who is experienced in supporting adolescents, adults and couples. I am registered with the Australian Counselling Association and support clients to overcome a wide range of issues and significant life challenges. My particular interest is in promoting self-awareness and strong interpersonal relationships to help clients achieve their full potential so that they can thrive in all facets of their lives. True self-awareness can lead to positive self-development that aligns with your values and life purpose. Let me help you to achieve your potential.
I am a compassionate, empathic and intuitive counsellor who is experienced in supporting adolescents, adults and couples. I am registered with the Australian Counselling Association and support clients to overcome a wide range of issues and significant life challenges. My particular interest is in promoting self-awareness and strong interpersonal relationships to help clients achieve their full potential so that they can thrive in all facets of their lives. True self-awareness can lead to positive self-development that aligns with your values and life purpose. Let me help you to achieve your potential.
(03) 7500 5767 View (03) 7500 5767
Photo of Fiona Jensen, Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Fiona Jensen
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Werribee, VIC 3030
She primarily uses schema therapy and draws on CBT, ACT, DBT interventions; using a strengths based approach.
Fiona is highly experienced and her approach is warm and easy. She understands how hard it can be to ask for support and so aims to make you feel as comfortable as is possible.
She primarily uses schema therapy and draws on CBT, ACT, DBT interventions; using a strengths based approach.
Fiona is highly experienced and her approach is warm and easy. She understands how hard it can be to ask for support and so aims to make you feel as comfortable as is possible.
(03) 7302 8248 View (03) 7302 8248
Photo of Matthew Briglia, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Matthew Briglia
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Matthew has gained experience working in public mental health, private practice and at a sporting organisation. Matthew sees clients presenting with a range of concerns, including, but not limited to depressive/anxiety disorders, grief and bereavement and trauma related disorders. Here, he focuses on providing a space for clients to express what is most pressing to them, whilst proposing areas that he considers useful for intervention.
Matthew has gained experience working in public mental health, private practice and at a sporting organisation. Matthew sees clients presenting with a range of concerns, including, but not limited to depressive/anxiety disorders, grief and bereavement and trauma related disorders. Here, he focuses on providing a space for clients to express what is most pressing to them, whilst proposing areas that he considers useful for intervention.
(03) 7003 2586 View (03) 7003 2586
Photo of Jess Hodges, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Jess Hodges
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I have further trained in DARe (attachment re-programing), EFT, DBT and Expressive Therapy,
Do you feel overwhelmed, exhausted or struggling with motivation? Do you have sensitivities that leave you feeling judged by others, or misunderstood? Do you experience stuck patterns of behaviour that effect your ability to feel satisfaction in life and in relationships? Do you feel pressure to conform to societal norms and expectations, which leaves you feeling "othered" and isolated? I see you! You are not alone and you don't have to work this out by yourself. Together we can explore your lived experience and the many ways it impacts your sense of self, worthiness and belonging.
I have further trained in DARe (attachment re-programing), EFT, DBT and Expressive Therapy,
Do you feel overwhelmed, exhausted or struggling with motivation? Do you have sensitivities that leave you feeling judged by others, or misunderstood? Do you experience stuck patterns of behaviour that effect your ability to feel satisfaction in life and in relationships? Do you feel pressure to conform to societal norms and expectations, which leaves you feeling "othered" and isolated? I see you! You are not alone and you don't have to work this out by yourself. Together we can explore your lived experience and the many ways it impacts your sense of self, worthiness and belonging.
(02) 5605 6601 View (02) 5605 6601
Photo of Tim Murray, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Tim Murray
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Online Only
I hold expertise in a range of psychological interventions including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy ( DBT).
I may be the right fit for you if you're feeling overwhelmed by stress, depression, anxiety, or challenging relationships. I can also help if you’re struggling to navigate personal identity or feeling like an imposter in your own life. Bulk billing is available for clients with a Mental Health Treatment Plan (GP referral).
I hold expertise in a range of psychological interventions including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy ( DBT).
I may be the right fit for you if you're feeling overwhelmed by stress, depression, anxiety, or challenging relationships. I can also help if you’re struggling to navigate personal identity or feeling like an imposter in your own life. Bulk billing is available for clients with a Mental Health Treatment Plan (GP referral).
(03) 7003 2101 View (03) 7003 2101
Photo of Jake J Ciminelli - Jake Ciminelli | Clinical Psychologist, Psychologist, MAPS
Jake Ciminelli | Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, MAPS
2 Endorsed
Camberwell, VIC 3124
If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or anxious, I’m glad you’re here. I’m the Principal Clinical Psychologist at Greylight Psychology, with over 10 years’ experience helping teens and adults across Australia overcome anxiety, OCD, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, and life transitions. I use evidence-based approaches including Schema Therapy, ACT, and ERP, delivered via secure, Medicare-rebated Telehealth & in-person sessions. My approach is grounded in warmth and a deep respect for your unique story. Your goals, needs, and values guide our work together, and when you’re ready, I’m here to walk alongside you.
If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or anxious, I’m glad you’re here. I’m the Principal Clinical Psychologist at Greylight Psychology, with over 10 years’ experience helping teens and adults across Australia overcome anxiety, OCD, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, and life transitions. I use evidence-based approaches including Schema Therapy, ACT, and ERP, delivered via secure, Medicare-rebated Telehealth & in-person sessions. My approach is grounded in warmth and a deep respect for your unique story. Your goals, needs, and values guide our work together, and when you’re ready, I’m here to walk alongside you.
(03) 8203 5710 View (03) 8203 5710
Photo of Dr Sneha Goyal, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Sneha Goyal
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Melbourne, VIC 3000
If you are looking for a warm, supportive space where you can feel truly heard, understood, and supported on your journey- Hello and Welcome! I’m a Clinical Psychologist based on Collins Street in Melbourne, and with over 12 years of experience, providing this kind of genuine, collaborative care is what I am deeply passionate about. I have a particular heart for supporting Adult ADHD especially with complex presentations. My PHD research examined the cognitive, emotional, and social profiles of Adult ADHD. This has tuned my approach to be NEUROaffirming.
If you are looking for a warm, supportive space where you can feel truly heard, understood, and supported on your journey- Hello and Welcome! I’m a Clinical Psychologist based on Collins Street in Melbourne, and with over 12 years of experience, providing this kind of genuine, collaborative care is what I am deeply passionate about. I have a particular heart for supporting Adult ADHD especially with complex presentations. My PHD research examined the cognitive, emotional, and social profiles of Adult ADHD. This has tuned my approach to be NEUROaffirming.
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Photo of Georgina Draxler, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Georgina Draxler
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Pascoe Vale, VIC 3044
Approaching therapy with a trauma-informed, person-centered, and affirming lens, I utilise therapeutic modalities such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy ( DBT), EMDR, & Schema Therapy.
Hi, I’m Georgina, a registered psychologist offering warm, accessible, and affirming support for young people and adults across Australia. I have an interest in inner child healing, attachment trauma, and complex PTSD. My approach is trauma-informed and neurodiversity-affirming, drawing on evidence-based modalities to help clients make sense of their past and reconnect with their authentic selves. I also support clients in exploring their neurotype (including autism and ADHD), and offer perinatal support for those navigating pregnancy, parenthood, birth trauma, and perinatal anxiety or OCD.
Approaching therapy with a trauma-informed, person-centered, and affirming lens, I utilise therapeutic modalities such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy ( DBT), EMDR, & Schema Therapy.
Hi, I’m Georgina, a registered psychologist offering warm, accessible, and affirming support for young people and adults across Australia. I have an interest in inner child healing, attachment trauma, and complex PTSD. My approach is trauma-informed and neurodiversity-affirming, drawing on evidence-based modalities to help clients make sense of their past and reconnect with their authentic selves. I also support clients in exploring their neurotype (including autism and ADHD), and offer perinatal support for those navigating pregnancy, parenthood, birth trauma, and perinatal anxiety or OCD.
(03) 7003 2409 View (03) 7003 2409
Photo of Dr Maria Syed, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Dr Maria Syed
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Coburg, VIC 3058
In therapy, I draw on Dialectical Behaviour Therapy ( DBT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and mindfulness-based approaches.
At Mindlab Psychology, the bulk of my work is with ADHD, autism and Borderline Personality, and I support the challenges that often come alongside them such as anxiety, emotional regulation difficulties, low self-esteem, relationship challenges, and burnout.
In therapy, I draw on Dialectical Behaviour Therapy ( DBT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and mindfulness-based approaches.
At Mindlab Psychology, the bulk of my work is with ADHD, autism and Borderline Personality, and I support the challenges that often come alongside them such as anxiety, emotional regulation difficulties, low self-esteem, relationship challenges, and burnout.
0432 998 485 View 0432 998 485
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.