Dialectical Behaviour (DBT) Psychologists and Therapists in Kooyong, VIC

Photo of Charlotte Workman, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Charlotte Workman
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I use a range of modalities in my practice including EMDR, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy and Psychodynamic Therapy.
Hi, I'm Charlotte, a Registered Psychologist and founder of Soulful Growth Psychology based in Camberwell, VIC and online. I am passionate about supporting people aged 14-55yrs with a variety of mental health concerns. I enjoy working with anxiety disorders, depression, trauma disorders and perinatal mental health (conception-2yr post birth). I’m passionate about trauma-informed care and ensuring I’m meeting the individual care needs of each person who walks through my door!
I use a range of modalities in my practice including EMDR, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy and Psychodynamic Therapy.
Hi, I'm Charlotte, a Registered Psychologist and founder of Soulful Growth Psychology based in Camberwell, VIC and online. I am passionate about supporting people aged 14-55yrs with a variety of mental health concerns. I enjoy working with anxiety disorders, depression, trauma disorders and perinatal mental health (conception-2yr post birth). I’m passionate about trauma-informed care and ensuring I’m meeting the individual care needs of each person who walks through my door!
(03) 8771 5305 View (03) 8771 5305
Photo of Angelique Grosskopf, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Angelique Grosskopf
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
I use evidence-based therapies (CBT, ACT, DBT, Schema) through a strengths-based, neuro-affirming, trauma-informed lens.
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.
I use evidence-based therapies (CBT, ACT, DBT, Schema) through a strengths-based, neuro-affirming, trauma-informed lens.
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
Photo of Dr Jessica Simons, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Jessica Simons
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Online Only
I am a Clinical Psychologist and a qualified Nutritionist. I have a passion for helping people find peace and contentment in their lives, free from emotional distress, and for providing clients with the tools they need to support themselves in the future. I have a particular interest in how diet influences mental health. I am open to seeing adults and adolescents with a range of mental health presentations including weight management, eating disorders, chronic pain, anxiety, depression, fatigue, sleep problems, anger, and psychosomatic complaints.
I am a Clinical Psychologist and a qualified Nutritionist. I have a passion for helping people find peace and contentment in their lives, free from emotional distress, and for providing clients with the tools they need to support themselves in the future. I have a particular interest in how diet influences mental health. I am open to seeing adults and adolescents with a range of mental health presentations including weight management, eating disorders, chronic pain, anxiety, depression, fatigue, sleep problems, anger, and psychosomatic complaints.
(03) 7500 5124 View (03) 7500 5124
Photo of Maya Feldman, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Maya Feldman
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Serves Area
Maya utilises evidence based psychological modalities including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy ( DBT), Mindfulness, Relaxation Training, Motivational Interviewing.
Maya works collaboratively to develop an individualised effective treatment plan and tailors the therapy approach to meet the needs of individuals and their specific circumstances. Every therapy engagement is unique and requires taking into account the individual needs, circumstances and combine this with evidence based practice to achieve optimal results.
Maya utilises evidence based psychological modalities including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy ( DBT), Mindfulness, Relaxation Training, Motivational Interviewing.
Maya works collaboratively to develop an individualised effective treatment plan and tailors the therapy approach to meet the needs of individuals and their specific circumstances. Every therapy engagement is unique and requires taking into account the individual needs, circumstances and combine this with evidence based practice to achieve optimal results.
(03) 9068 5852 View (03) 9068 5852

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Patrick Rory-John Hukins, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Patrick Rory-John Hukins
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Online Only
Hi, I’m Patrick Rory-John (they/them), a Psychotherapist and Counsellor with a deep commitment to supporting individuals through their unique journeys. My practice focuses on sexuality, gender, and relationship therapy. I work with individuals experiencing a wide variety of concerns from navigating complex relationships, sexuality, and gender affirming care, to coping with trauma, disability and mental health struggles. I am passionate about creating an environment where clients feel respected heard, and empowered to be their authentic selves.
Hi, I’m Patrick Rory-John (they/them), a Psychotherapist and Counsellor with a deep commitment to supporting individuals through their unique journeys. My practice focuses on sexuality, gender, and relationship therapy. I work with individuals experiencing a wide variety of concerns from navigating complex relationships, sexuality, and gender affirming care, to coping with trauma, disability and mental health struggles. I am passionate about creating an environment where clients feel respected heard, and empowered to be their authentic selves.
(02) 9100 0428 View (02) 9100 0428
Photo of Maddison Harris - Stonebrook Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Stonebrook Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Bayswater, VIC 3153
Maddison is an experienced psychologist working with adults via telehealth or face to face. Maddison provides compassionate, person-centred, and neuroaffirming care, creating a safe and welcoming space for clients to feel understood and supported. Maddison works with adults, and primarily works with individuals navigating late diagnosis of neurodivergence (including autism and ADHD), chronic illness/pain, and perinatal and infant mental health. Maddison is also qualified in Non-Directive Counselling for Pregnancy support.
Maddison is an experienced psychologist working with adults via telehealth or face to face. Maddison provides compassionate, person-centred, and neuroaffirming care, creating a safe and welcoming space for clients to feel understood and supported. Maddison works with adults, and primarily works with individuals navigating late diagnosis of neurodivergence (including autism and ADHD), chronic illness/pain, and perinatal and infant mental health. Maddison is also qualified in Non-Directive Counselling for Pregnancy support.
(03) 8203 5680 View (03) 8203 5680
Photo of Harry C Monaghan - Harry Monaghan (IFS Therapy) , Psychotherapist, MPsych
Harry Monaghan (IFS Therapy)
Psychotherapist, MPsych
Online Only
I am an experienced psychotherapist, having worked for more than 10 years as a clinician in the community mental health field supporting young people, adolescents, adults and families facing significant complex trauma. I am someone who values authenticity, humor and real connections. I try to keep therapy as human as possible, no unnecessary jargon, just genuine conversations that meet you where you are. If you are struggling with anxiety, trauma, shame, anger, overwhelm, numbness, dissociation or patterns you don’t fully understand but feel stuck in then I am able to help (See my website for more) I also offer parenting support.
I am an experienced psychotherapist, having worked for more than 10 years as a clinician in the community mental health field supporting young people, adolescents, adults and families facing significant complex trauma. I am someone who values authenticity, humor and real connections. I try to keep therapy as human as possible, no unnecessary jargon, just genuine conversations that meet you where you are. If you are struggling with anxiety, trauma, shame, anger, overwhelm, numbness, dissociation or patterns you don’t fully understand but feel stuck in then I am able to help (See my website for more) I also offer parenting support.
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Photo of Ewa Nowinska - Neuoraffirming EMDR and EMDR intensives , Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Neuoraffirming EMDR and EMDR intensives
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I also use CBT, ACT , DBT and MI.
Ewa Nowińska is a Registered Psychologist with a Master’s Degree from University of Gdansk, Poland. She also completed one year university exchange at the University of Barcelona, which led her to move to this beautiful country. During her 6 years in Spain/Catalonia, she continued developing her skills as a psychologist by working with clients struggling with work related issues,body image or relationship issues. After moving to Australia / Sydney in 2013, she commenced working with clients on Workers Compensation. Moreover, she has been supporting clients undergoing bariatric surgery. Medicare rebates available.
I also use CBT, ACT , DBT and MI.
Ewa Nowińska is a Registered Psychologist with a Master’s Degree from University of Gdansk, Poland. She also completed one year university exchange at the University of Barcelona, which led her to move to this beautiful country. During her 6 years in Spain/Catalonia, she continued developing her skills as a psychologist by working with clients struggling with work related issues,body image or relationship issues. After moving to Australia / Sydney in 2013, she commenced working with clients on Workers Compensation. Moreover, she has been supporting clients undergoing bariatric surgery. Medicare rebates available.
0432 920 100 View 0432 920 100
Photo of Mouri Karim, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Mouri Karim
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Melbourne, VIC 3000
I use evidence-based therapies including trauma-informed DBT, CBT, SF, ACT and Narrative therapy, tailored to your goals.
I have over a decade of experience in mental health, community, and advocacy settings, and more than 4.5 years as a Provisional + General Psychologist. I welcome clients from all backgrounds, including LGBTIQ+, culturally diverse, and neurodivergent communities. I work with people experiencing anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD, or BPD-especially those feeling stuck in cycles of stress, self-doubt, emotional overwhelm, or relationship difficulties. You may be navigating life transitions, questioning your identity, or just trying to stay afloat. Whatever you’re facing, I offer a safe, non-judgmental space to help you move forward.
I use evidence-based therapies including trauma-informed DBT, CBT, SF, ACT and Narrative therapy, tailored to your goals.
I have over a decade of experience in mental health, community, and advocacy settings, and more than 4.5 years as a Provisional + General Psychologist. I welcome clients from all backgrounds, including LGBTIQ+, culturally diverse, and neurodivergent communities. I work with people experiencing anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD, or BPD-especially those feeling stuck in cycles of stress, self-doubt, emotional overwhelm, or relationship difficulties. You may be navigating life transitions, questioning your identity, or just trying to stay afloat. Whatever you’re facing, I offer a safe, non-judgmental space to help you move forward.
0425 169 393 View 0425 169 393
Photo of Ishma Alvi - Ishma Alvi Psychology, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Ishma Alvi Psychology
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Brunswick East, VIC 3057
The psychological interventions I employ include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy ( DBT), Attachment Theory and the Poly Vagal Approach.
My work is informed by principles of gender, sexual and racial equity. My practice is grounded in principles of inclusion, actively serving BIPOC, CALD, and LGBTQIA+ communities, applying Anti-Oppression framework and a trauma-informed lens. My work is helped by the fact that I am fluent in Urdu, Hindi, and English. I offer individual and relationship counselling for people from 21 years upward, for issues, including anxiety, eating disorders, trauma, sexual wellbeing and relationships. My work is guided by principles of gender, sexual, and racial equity. I am committed to inclusion and actively support BIPOC, CALD, and LGBTQIA+
The psychological interventions I employ include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy ( DBT), Attachment Theory and the Poly Vagal Approach.
My work is informed by principles of gender, sexual and racial equity. My practice is grounded in principles of inclusion, actively serving BIPOC, CALD, and LGBTQIA+ communities, applying Anti-Oppression framework and a trauma-informed lens. My work is helped by the fact that I am fluent in Urdu, Hindi, and English. I offer individual and relationship counselling for people from 21 years upward, for issues, including anxiety, eating disorders, trauma, sexual wellbeing and relationships. My work is guided by principles of gender, sexual, and racial equity. I am committed to inclusion and actively support BIPOC, CALD, and LGBTQIA+
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Photo of Nicole Day, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Nicole Day
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Frankston, VIC 3199
Hi everyone! I have a strong commitment to supporting the emotional wellbeing of children, adolescents, adults, and families. I offer a calm, safe, and welcoming environment where clients can feel heard, and respected as they work through life’s challenges. I hold 10 years of combined volunteer and work experience which has enhanced my ability to support dealing with stress, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, grief, loss, relationship difficulties, domestic violence, and diagnosed mental health disorders. Whilst not an art therapist, I can integrate art therapy techniques with clients as a form of expression, being mindful, or finding self.
Hi everyone! I have a strong commitment to supporting the emotional wellbeing of children, adolescents, adults, and families. I offer a calm, safe, and welcoming environment where clients can feel heard, and respected as they work through life’s challenges. I hold 10 years of combined volunteer and work experience which has enhanced my ability to support dealing with stress, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, grief, loss, relationship difficulties, domestic violence, and diagnosed mental health disorders. Whilst not an art therapist, I can integrate art therapy techniques with clients as a form of expression, being mindful, or finding self.
(03) 5909 9309 View (03) 5909 9309
Photo of Carla Perrone, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Carla Perrone
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Balwyn North, VIC 3104
I am dedicated to providing a safe and supportive space for individuals to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. With a compassionate and non-judgmental approach, I aim to help clients navigate challenges, build resilience, and achieve personal growth. My current work is targeted for older adolescents 16+ and adults. Claim your free 15-minute consultation to find out more about how we can work together to help you to achieve your goals.
I am dedicated to providing a safe and supportive space for individuals to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. With a compassionate and non-judgmental approach, I aim to help clients navigate challenges, build resilience, and achieve personal growth. My current work is targeted for older adolescents 16+ and adults. Claim your free 15-minute consultation to find out more about how we can work together to help you to achieve your goals.
0473 751 365 View 0473 751 365
Photo of Robin Pantours, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Robin Pantours
Counsellor, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Master's in counselling through ECU , trained in IFS, ACT and DBT, as well as certification in creative therapies and embodied practices
Supporting clients to intergrate their lived experiences and find compassion and understanding towards their own lives
Master's in counselling through ECU , trained in IFS, ACT and DBT, as well as certification in creative therapies and embodied practices
Supporting clients to intergrate their lived experiences and find compassion and understanding towards their own lives
(03) 5910 5379 View (03) 5910 5379
Photo of Dr Reza Nejad, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Reza Nejad
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
With experience in trauma, anxiety, OCD, eating disorders, grief, insomnia, and relationship issues, I use CBT, ACT, DBT, prolonged exposure, and exposure and response prevention to help clients build coping skills, improve wellbeing, and move forward with confidence.
My ideal client is someone experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, OCD, eating disorders, insomnia, grief and loss, health anxiety, or relationship difficulties. They may feel stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected. Their needs include a safe, supportive space and practical strategies to manage symptoms and improve functioning. Their goals often involve emotional relief, better relationships, improved sleep, or rebuilding after loss. They seek clarity, resilience, and a sense of control over their lives.
With experience in trauma, anxiety, OCD, eating disorders, grief, insomnia, and relationship issues, I use CBT, ACT, DBT, prolonged exposure, and exposure and response prevention to help clients build coping skills, improve wellbeing, and move forward with confidence.
My ideal client is someone experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, OCD, eating disorders, insomnia, grief and loss, health anxiety, or relationship difficulties. They may feel stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected. Their needs include a safe, supportive space and practical strategies to manage symptoms and improve functioning. Their goals often involve emotional relief, better relationships, improved sleep, or rebuilding after loss. They seek clarity, resilience, and a sense of control over their lives.
(08) 8646 5602 View (08) 8646 5602
Photo of My Mirror - My Mirror, Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
My Mirror
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Online Only
We combine the best of face-to-face sessions with the added benefits of an integrated digital approach to provide you with a seamless, informative and low stress experience.
We combine the best of face-to-face sessions with the added benefits of an integrated digital approach to provide you with a seamless, informative and low stress experience.
(02) 9090 4730 View (02) 9090 4730
Photo of Imelda Westworth, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Imelda Westworth
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Ringwood, VIC 3134
I work with clients who are seeking support and guidance to manage and cope with mental health challenges such as trauma, depression, anxiety, phobias, grief and loss, life transitions, self-esteem, family issues, and relationship issues. Together, we tackle goals such as reducing symptoms of mental illness, improving their ability to function in daily life, building stronger relationships with loved ones, and developing greater self-awareness and self-esteem. My clients come to me with a desire to improve their mental health and overall well-being so that they can live a more fulfilling and satisfying life.
I work with clients who are seeking support and guidance to manage and cope with mental health challenges such as trauma, depression, anxiety, phobias, grief and loss, life transitions, self-esteem, family issues, and relationship issues. Together, we tackle goals such as reducing symptoms of mental illness, improving their ability to function in daily life, building stronger relationships with loved ones, and developing greater self-awareness and self-esteem. My clients come to me with a desire to improve their mental health and overall well-being so that they can live a more fulfilling and satisfying life.
(03) 8203 5741 View (03) 8203 5741
Photo of Tiffany Valente - Brainspotting, EMDR, IFS ClinPsy- Tiffany Valente , Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Brainspotting, EMDR, IFS ClinPsy- Tiffany Valente
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Online Only
I draw on EMDR, Brainspotting, IFS, ACT and DBT-informed skills, woven together around what each person needs.
You may appear to be functioning well on the outside. But inside, something still feels unresolved. You've done the reading, perhaps even the therapy, and yet the patterns persist. The weight hasn't lifted. Something deeper is asking to be met. I'm a Clinical Psychologist offering online therapy across Australia, working at the intersection of trauma healing and depth psychology. I draw on EMDR, Brainspotting, Internal Family Systems and somatic approaches to work with the parts of you that talking alone hasn't reached. Not just processing what happened, but exploring who you are becoming.
I draw on EMDR, Brainspotting, IFS, ACT and DBT-informed skills, woven together around what each person needs.
You may appear to be functioning well on the outside. But inside, something still feels unresolved. You've done the reading, perhaps even the therapy, and yet the patterns persist. The weight hasn't lifted. Something deeper is asking to be met. I'm a Clinical Psychologist offering online therapy across Australia, working at the intersection of trauma healing and depth psychology. I draw on EMDR, Brainspotting, Internal Family Systems and somatic approaches to work with the parts of you that talking alone hasn't reached. Not just processing what happened, but exploring who you are becoming.
(03) 7003 2560 View (03) 7003 2560
Photo of Samara Smith - Therapy at SAL Consulting, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Therapy at SAL Consulting
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Ringwood, VIC 3134
At SAL Consulting, we support people of all ages who are facing complex challenges and mental health concerns. Many of the individuals we work with are living with the ongoing impacts of trauma or early life experiences. Others may be navigating life with a diagnosis, intellectual disability, or neurodivergence. Our team of experienced therapists meet you where you’re at — with care, respect, and understanding. With offices based in New South Wales, Victoria, the Northern Territory, and Western Australia, we’re proud to support communities right across Australia.
At SAL Consulting, we support people of all ages who are facing complex challenges and mental health concerns. Many of the individuals we work with are living with the ongoing impacts of trauma or early life experiences. Others may be navigating life with a diagnosis, intellectual disability, or neurodivergence. Our team of experienced therapists meet you where you’re at — with care, respect, and understanding. With offices based in New South Wales, Victoria, the Northern Territory, and Western Australia, we’re proud to support communities right across Australia.
(02) 8403 0382 View (02) 8403 0382
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 Jason Brain, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Jason Brain
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Northcote, VIC 3070
A safe, welcoming therapy space for gay men, where you’ll be seen, valued, and accepted just as you are. Perhaps you learned early that being yourself felt unsafe, and adapted by hiding parts of yourself to avoid criticism or rejection. You may feel tension between staying safe and wanting to be truly seen. You might want deeper, more authentic relationships, greater self-compassion, and a life that feels genuinely your own, not limited by having grown up in a heteronormative world. Whether you’re facing a recent crisis, patterns that won’t shift, or want deeper self-understanding, we work at a pace that feels safe and respectful.
A safe, welcoming therapy space for gay men, where you’ll be seen, valued, and accepted just as you are. Perhaps you learned early that being yourself felt unsafe, and adapted by hiding parts of yourself to avoid criticism or rejection. You may feel tension between staying safe and wanting to be truly seen. You might want deeper, more authentic relationships, greater self-compassion, and a life that feels genuinely your own, not limited by having grown up in a heteronormative world. Whether you’re facing a recent crisis, patterns that won’t shift, or want deeper self-understanding, we work at a pace that feels safe and respectful.
(03) 7003 2943 View (03) 7003 2943
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.