Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in K2S

Photo of Stacey de Savoye, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Stacey de Savoye
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Stittsville, ON K2S  (Online Only)
Stacey draws from many different theories, most notably Attachment, Systems and Grief theory and uses a variety of therapeutic interventions: CBT, DBT, ACT, Trauma Informed, Narrative and Solution Focused.
Accepting New Clients: Stacey is a registered Social Worker (MSW) with 20+ years in Canada and Great Britain. Stacey focuses on unlocking one's inherent resiliency to meet life's biggest challenges and develops the skills to process, cope and flourish. Having worked extensively with children, teens, adults and families, Military, Police and Veterans in a variety of settings including NICU, Pediatric Oncology, Canadian Armed Forces Bases and Palliative Care. Stacey knows that life's struggles can come in many different forms and coping can be one of life's biggest challenges.
Stacey draws from many different theories, most notably Attachment, Systems and Grief theory and uses a variety of therapeutic interventions: CBT, DBT, ACT, Trauma Informed, Narrative and Solution Focused.
Accepting New Clients: Stacey is a registered Social Worker (MSW) with 20+ years in Canada and Great Britain. Stacey focuses on unlocking one's inherent resiliency to meet life's biggest challenges and develops the skills to process, cope and flourish. Having worked extensively with children, teens, adults and families, Military, Police and Veterans in a variety of settings including NICU, Pediatric Oncology, Canadian Armed Forces Bases and Palliative Care. Stacey knows that life's struggles can come in many different forms and coping can be one of life's biggest challenges.
(343) 801-1478 View (343) 801-1478
Photo of Megan Beninger, RN, CNP (Q)
Megan Beninger
RN, CNP (Q)
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Stittsville, ON K2S  (Online Only)
I am a Registered Nurse Psychotherapist who has a passion for helping people like you. I bring authenticity and heart to our sessions. I ensure there is no "stuffiness" or awkwardness because feeling at ease is essential when allowing yourself to be open and vulnerable. I work with individuals with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, coping with chronic illness, overwhelm, stress, caregiver burnout, and interpersonal concerns. I integrate techniques and approaches grounded in evidence-based practices like CBT, DBT and mindfulness-based interventions. I am also very interested in somatic based approaches.
I am a Registered Nurse Psychotherapist who has a passion for helping people like you. I bring authenticity and heart to our sessions. I ensure there is no "stuffiness" or awkwardness because feeling at ease is essential when allowing yourself to be open and vulnerable. I work with individuals with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, coping with chronic illness, overwhelm, stress, caregiver burnout, and interpersonal concerns. I integrate techniques and approaches grounded in evidence-based practices like CBT, DBT and mindfulness-based interventions. I am also very interested in somatic based approaches.
(343) 321-0580 View (343) 321-0580
Photo of Jaden Bailey, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Jaden Bailey
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2S  (Online Only)
I offer effective strategies and evidence-based therapies like EMDR, CBT, DBT, Internal Family Systems, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy.
I am dedicated to guiding you on your personal growth and transformation journey. Together, we'll not only understand any challenges you may be facing but also work towards developing coping mechanisms and fostering resilience. Whether you're striving for self-discovery, seeking personal growth, or navigating life transitions, I provide compassionate guidance, a safe space, and practical support to help you on this empowering path.
I offer effective strategies and evidence-based therapies like EMDR, CBT, DBT, Internal Family Systems, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy.
I am dedicated to guiding you on your personal growth and transformation journey. Together, we'll not only understand any challenges you may be facing but also work towards developing coping mechanisms and fostering resilience. Whether you're striving for self-discovery, seeking personal growth, or navigating life transitions, I provide compassionate guidance, a safe space, and practical support to help you on this empowering path.
(343) 304-6556 View (343) 304-6556
Photo of Nicole Sarah Grattan, BA, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Nicole Sarah Grattan
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2S
With experience delivering CBT, DBT, narrative, and psychodynamic therapy, I take an integrative client-centred approach to therapy with a particular interest in existential principles.
I provide counseling services to clients of all ages with a wide range of presenting concerns including anxiety, depression, interpersonal conflict, identity issues, grief and more. I have worked alongside children and their families navigating ASD and ADHD challenges, as well at-risk youth seeking behavioural support and affirming care.
With experience delivering CBT, DBT, narrative, and psychodynamic therapy, I take an integrative client-centred approach to therapy with a particular interest in existential principles.
I provide counseling services to clients of all ages with a wide range of presenting concerns including anxiety, depression, interpersonal conflict, identity issues, grief and more. I have worked alongside children and their families navigating ASD and ADHD challenges, as well at-risk youth seeking behavioural support and affirming care.
(343) 308-3672 View (343) 308-3672
Photo of Amanda Telford - Amanda Telford, Therapy and Supervision Services, MSW, RSW, CTIC, Registered Social Worker
Amanda Telford, Therapy and Supervision Services
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CTIC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
I am committed to ongoing professional development and am trained in EMDR, CBT, DBT, CPT, PE, MI, EFT, and recently completed ADHD-CCSP training.
Welcome to my profile. You have taken a difficult step in exploring your healing and recovery journey. You may be looking for support as you navigate stress, burnout, trauma, complex trauma, anxiety, depression, caregiver fatigue, ADHD or autism, addictions, and life transitions. Maybe you and your partner are experiencing challenges around communication, intimacy, parenting, elder care, work-life balance, differences in wants, needs, and life goals. Maybe you are a first responder/military/vet seeking a therapist who is truly able to deep dive with you, help regulate intrusive thoughts, and deeply process traumatic events.
I am committed to ongoing professional development and am trained in EMDR, CBT, DBT, CPT, PE, MI, EFT, and recently completed ADHD-CCSP training.
Welcome to my profile. You have taken a difficult step in exploring your healing and recovery journey. You may be looking for support as you navigate stress, burnout, trauma, complex trauma, anxiety, depression, caregiver fatigue, ADHD or autism, addictions, and life transitions. Maybe you and your partner are experiencing challenges around communication, intimacy, parenting, elder care, work-life balance, differences in wants, needs, and life goals. Maybe you are a first responder/military/vet seeking a therapist who is truly able to deep dive with you, help regulate intrusive thoughts, and deeply process traumatic events.
(613) 801-3618 View (613) 801-3618
Photo of Tina Carby, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Tina Carby
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
I have training in various evidenced based therapies such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy to name a few.
As a practitioner I provide confidential care for you to explore your concerns in a safe, non-judgmental space. We take time to discuss your concerns and set goals that make sense to you. With my 14 years of clinical experience and with training in various evidence based practices, I will explore the areas your seeking support in. I have experience supporting individuals, couples and families. I provide various tools to help you move through your concerns whether your a visual or non visual learner. I have a sense of humor and am quite relaxed, having been told by previous clients I have a way of putting them at ease.
I have training in various evidenced based therapies such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy to name a few.
As a practitioner I provide confidential care for you to explore your concerns in a safe, non-judgmental space. We take time to discuss your concerns and set goals that make sense to you. With my 14 years of clinical experience and with training in various evidence based practices, I will explore the areas your seeking support in. I have experience supporting individuals, couples and families. I provide various tools to help you move through your concerns whether your a visual or non visual learner. I have a sense of humor and am quite relaxed, having been told by previous clients I have a way of putting them at ease.
(343) 944-4881 View (343) 944-4881
Photo of Aaliya Blais-Batres, BA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Aaliya Blais-Batres
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
I am EFT, ACT, CBT, and DBT trained and can’t wait to start this journey with you.
Navigating the complexities of one’s past or present experiences can indeed be daunting, and the idea of discussing them with a stranger may feel overwhelming. I understand that taking the first step towards therapy can be challenging. As your therapist, I recognize the unique nature of each individual’s journey and strive to make the process as comfortable as possible. Embracing a holistic and client-centered approach, I tailor my methods to accommodate your specific needs and therapy goals. Creating a safe and supportive space is paramount to me.
I am EFT, ACT, CBT, and DBT trained and can’t wait to start this journey with you.
Navigating the complexities of one’s past or present experiences can indeed be daunting, and the idea of discussing them with a stranger may feel overwhelming. I understand that taking the first step towards therapy can be challenging. As your therapist, I recognize the unique nature of each individual’s journey and strive to make the process as comfortable as possible. Embracing a holistic and client-centered approach, I tailor my methods to accommodate your specific needs and therapy goals. Creating a safe and supportive space is paramount to me.
(365) 675-0481 View (365) 675-0481
Photo of Jill Brule, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Jill Brule
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Welcome! I look forward to meeting with you. As a Registered Social Worker, I offer individual counseling/therapy in person, or virtually. I believe therapy is a collaborative process, and I look forward to joining you on your wellness journey. I have extensive experience working in community mental health and health care settings. I value ongoing training and education, and am able to offer treatment based in CBT, DBT, ACT, Narrative therapy and EMDR. My areas of focus include anxiety, depression, life stress (work, relationships, parenting), grief, and trauma.
Welcome! I look forward to meeting with you. As a Registered Social Worker, I offer individual counseling/therapy in person, or virtually. I believe therapy is a collaborative process, and I look forward to joining you on your wellness journey. I have extensive experience working in community mental health and health care settings. I value ongoing training and education, and am able to offer treatment based in CBT, DBT, ACT, Narrative therapy and EMDR. My areas of focus include anxiety, depression, life stress (work, relationships, parenting), grief, and trauma.
(343) 429-5311 View (343) 429-5311
Photo of Christina Glaus - HopeSide Counselling: Navigating Life Transitions, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
HopeSide Counselling: Navigating Life Transitions
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Stittsville, ON K2S  (Online Only)
I draw from a mix of modalities, including CBT, ACT, mindfulness and DBT.
Now Accepting New Clients! Beginning counselling is an intimidating process and I congratulate you for making it this far! It is an impressive accomplishment to take action with your mental health and you should be proud of yourself. Counselling is a space for growth, stabilization, recovery, and healing – and while we all have the tools to maintain, improve, and stabilize our mental health – I believe that the best results can be achieved collaboratively. I can provide a supportive, non-judgemental space to help you access these tools. I specialize in caregiver support, perinatal support and life transitions.
I draw from a mix of modalities, including CBT, ACT, mindfulness and DBT.
Now Accepting New Clients! Beginning counselling is an intimidating process and I congratulate you for making it this far! It is an impressive accomplishment to take action with your mental health and you should be proud of yourself. Counselling is a space for growth, stabilization, recovery, and healing – and while we all have the tools to maintain, improve, and stabilize our mental health – I believe that the best results can be achieved collaboratively. I can provide a supportive, non-judgemental space to help you access these tools. I specialize in caregiver support, perinatal support and life transitions.
(343) 304-5550 View (343) 304-5550
Photo of Isabella Gondek, RP, MA, CPA, Registered Psychotherapist
Isabella Gondek
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA, CPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Isabella is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) at the Stradwick Psychology & Neurofeedback Clinic. Isabella works with adolescents and adults, providing therapy to individuals, couples and families alike. She has experience working with a broad range of concerns that include but are not limited to depression, anxiety, developmental trauma, post-traumatic stress, grief, paranoia, anger, self-esteem and intimacy issues. Isabella incorporates research-based interventions to help strengthen couple's relationship skills and manage different comorbidities. Isabella is fluent in English, Polish and French.
Isabella is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) at the Stradwick Psychology & Neurofeedback Clinic. Isabella works with adolescents and adults, providing therapy to individuals, couples and families alike. She has experience working with a broad range of concerns that include but are not limited to depression, anxiety, developmental trauma, post-traumatic stress, grief, paranoia, anger, self-esteem and intimacy issues. Isabella incorporates research-based interventions to help strengthen couple's relationship skills and manage different comorbidities. Isabella is fluent in English, Polish and French.
(613) 831-4547 View (613) 831-4547
Photo of Whitney Ricard, BA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Whitney Ricard
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, RP
Verified Verified
Stittsville, ON K2S  (Online Only)
If you're facing problematic substance use or addiction you probably feel tired, out of control, and maybe even hopeless. The good news is, there is hope and you're not alone. Addiction comes in many different forms and is a complex issue to manage. If you or someone you love are looking for help or support please reach out. I support people with substance use, misuse, abuse, dependence, mental health concerns, as well as their family and friends who often feel uncertain as to how to move forward.
If you're facing problematic substance use or addiction you probably feel tired, out of control, and maybe even hopeless. The good news is, there is hope and you're not alone. Addiction comes in many different forms and is a complex issue to manage. If you or someone you love are looking for help or support please reach out. I support people with substance use, misuse, abuse, dependence, mental health concerns, as well as their family and friends who often feel uncertain as to how to move forward.
(873) 514-5015 View (873) 514-5015
Photo of Maryse Hebert, BA, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Maryse Hebert
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MA, RP
Verified Verified
At Aura Counselling, I provide a warm and compassionate therapeutic environment where you can tell me your story without fear of judgment or invalidation so that you feel understood. Therapy will give you the opportunity to be heard authentically and receive full acceptance for your current experience. Through therapy, you may gain a deeper understanding about yourself and your presenting concern, helping you work through past or present hurts which in turn leads to healing.
At Aura Counselling, I provide a warm and compassionate therapeutic environment where you can tell me your story without fear of judgment or invalidation so that you feel understood. Therapy will give you the opportunity to be heard authentically and receive full acceptance for your current experience. Through therapy, you may gain a deeper understanding about yourself and your presenting concern, helping you work through past or present hurts which in turn leads to healing.
(343) 304-6287 View (343) 304-6287
Photo of Heather Bennett, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Heather Bennett
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waitlist for new clients
If you have connected with my profile it is likely because you or someone you care about is considering counselling. Reaching out for support is a difficult decision and it takes strength and courage. I believe that everyone can benefit from counselling at different times in their life. Whether it's a specific stress, a loss, a disconnect in a relationship, or general feeling of discomfort or dissatisfaction, counselling can help improve your health and happiness. Everyone carries unique strengths and resources to be harnessed. I will support you to identify your resiliency, using a warm, compassionate, strength-focused approach.
If you have connected with my profile it is likely because you or someone you care about is considering counselling. Reaching out for support is a difficult decision and it takes strength and courage. I believe that everyone can benefit from counselling at different times in their life. Whether it's a specific stress, a loss, a disconnect in a relationship, or general feeling of discomfort or dissatisfaction, counselling can help improve your health and happiness. Everyone carries unique strengths and resources to be harnessed. I will support you to identify your resiliency, using a warm, compassionate, strength-focused approach.
(613) 801-6927 View (613) 801-6927
Photo of (Ali) Alexandra Brabazon, RP, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist
(Ali) Alexandra Brabazon
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Accepting New Clients! Are you experiencing social, occupational or academic stress in your life? Are anxiety, depression and/or other clinical issues impacting your well-being? Are you struggling with relationships? Life can throw immense challenges our way and determining how to manage them and achieve our goals can be overwhelming. As a Psychotherapist, my role is to ride with you on this journey we call life for as little or as long as you need. We will work together to determine how to best tackle your goals, implement tools and coping strategies that best fit your needs, and lead you down a path towards positive change.
Accepting New Clients! Are you experiencing social, occupational or academic stress in your life? Are anxiety, depression and/or other clinical issues impacting your well-being? Are you struggling with relationships? Life can throw immense challenges our way and determining how to manage them and achieve our goals can be overwhelming. As a Psychotherapist, my role is to ride with you on this journey we call life for as little or as long as you need. We will work together to determine how to best tackle your goals, implement tools and coping strategies that best fit your needs, and lead you down a path towards positive change.
(343) 700-2918 View (343) 700-2918
Photo of Sandra Browne-Kealey, MEd RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Sandra Browne-Kealey
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I am a registered psychotherapist providing support to children, adolescents and adults with a broad range of concerns including stress, anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders, trauma, grief/loss, life transitions, self-esteem, sports performance and parenting/family issues. My therapeutic approach is holistic, collaborative and compassionate, drawing from a number of evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT).
I am a registered psychotherapist providing support to children, adolescents and adults with a broad range of concerns including stress, anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders, trauma, grief/loss, life transitions, self-esteem, sports performance and parenting/family issues. My therapeutic approach is holistic, collaborative and compassionate, drawing from a number of evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT).
(343) 342-2085 View (343) 342-2085
Photo of Selena Ladouceur, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Selena Ladouceur
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2S
I believe that individual experiences are what make us unique, thus "the relationship we have with ourselves sets the tone for every other relationship we have" (Jane Travis). I appreciate having the opportunity to support and work collaboratively with my clients, many of whom may be experiencing a diverse and/or complex array of concerns for their mental health needs and well-being. I strive to offer a safe and supportive environment where my clients can feel safe and secure in exploring their thoughts, feelings, and concerns. I strive to ensure that my client's needs and preferences are met and will adapt my approach when needed.
I believe that individual experiences are what make us unique, thus "the relationship we have with ourselves sets the tone for every other relationship we have" (Jane Travis). I appreciate having the opportunity to support and work collaboratively with my clients, many of whom may be experiencing a diverse and/or complex array of concerns for their mental health needs and well-being. I strive to offer a safe and supportive environment where my clients can feel safe and secure in exploring their thoughts, feelings, and concerns. I strive to ensure that my client's needs and preferences are met and will adapt my approach when needed.
(343) 309-9661 View (343) 309-9661
Photo of Synthia Satkunaraja (Psychotherapy For You), RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Synthia Satkunaraja (Psychotherapy For You)
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2S  (Online Only)
My name is Synthia and I am a Registered Psychotherapist in Ontario who has experience in working with people across the lifespan, including those experiencing anxiety, depression, addictions, trauma, and many more. I have completed an Honours Bachelor of Science in Biopsychology and a Master of Education in Developmental Psychology at the University of Toronto, alongside a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University. I have been in the field of mental health for about 6 years now, and worked across many settings, including crisis lines, counselling centres, private practice, and hospital settings.
My name is Synthia and I am a Registered Psychotherapist in Ontario who has experience in working with people across the lifespan, including those experiencing anxiety, depression, addictions, trauma, and many more. I have completed an Honours Bachelor of Science in Biopsychology and a Master of Education in Developmental Psychology at the University of Toronto, alongside a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University. I have been in the field of mental health for about 6 years now, and worked across many settings, including crisis lines, counselling centres, private practice, and hospital settings.
(289) 903-1134 View (289) 903-1134
Photo of Olivia Makara, MEd, Registered Psychotherapist
Olivia Makara
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2S
Accepting New Clients! - Life can be extremely challenging sometimes & reaching out for help may seem like the most daunting task, but it may be the best decision you ever make. I primarily work with individuals of ages 18+ who are experiencing ongoing mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, and burnout. My goal is to make you feel heard, understood & supported by creating a healing and compassionate environment. My objective is also to help you navigate the issues you are experiencing and assist in the development of healthy coping mechanisms to build a more resilient self.
Accepting New Clients! - Life can be extremely challenging sometimes & reaching out for help may seem like the most daunting task, but it may be the best decision you ever make. I primarily work with individuals of ages 18+ who are experiencing ongoing mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, and burnout. My goal is to make you feel heard, understood & supported by creating a healing and compassionate environment. My objective is also to help you navigate the issues you are experiencing and assist in the development of healthy coping mechanisms to build a more resilient self.
(613) 576-3016 View (613) 576-3016
Photo of Leigh Anne Berry - Leigh Berry, MSW, RSW, RHN, Registered Social Worker
Leigh Berry
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, RHN
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2S
Overwhelmed, anxious and oh so tired? How many hours have you spent doing what you don't want to be doing? Or spinning in anxiety and fear about all the unknowns? Lost in the hustle of everyday life - fighting to get it all done, and caring for everyone else, all while trying to fix your feelings and free yourself from the voice in your head telling you you aren't good enough. Not to mention cleaning up all the messes and keeping your houseplants alive. It's exhausting! Climb out of the fog of the have-to or should-dos, and everyone else's needs. No more gripping, no more pushing or resisting.
Overwhelmed, anxious and oh so tired? How many hours have you spent doing what you don't want to be doing? Or spinning in anxiety and fear about all the unknowns? Lost in the hustle of everyday life - fighting to get it all done, and caring for everyone else, all while trying to fix your feelings and free yourself from the voice in your head telling you you aren't good enough. Not to mention cleaning up all the messes and keeping your houseplants alive. It's exhausting! Climb out of the fog of the have-to or should-dos, and everyone else's needs. No more gripping, no more pushing or resisting.
(343) 342-2283 View (343) 342-2283
Photo of Laura S Stradwick - Stradwick Psychology & Neurofeedback Clinic, PsyD, CPsych, Psychologist
Stradwick Psychology & Neurofeedback Clinic
Psychologist, PsyD, CPsych
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
The Stradwick Psychology & Neurofeedback Clinic is a specialized mental health and wellness clinic that emphasizes mind-body and brain-based healing approaches. We provide psychological and neurofeedback services for children, adolescents, and adults to promote enhanced awareness, self-regulation, psychological resilience, and healing. We emphasize the importance of providing an emotionally safe and compassionate environment for building trust and therapeutic rapport, while developing individualized treatment plans that incorporate evidence-based practice.
The Stradwick Psychology & Neurofeedback Clinic is a specialized mental health and wellness clinic that emphasizes mind-body and brain-based healing approaches. We provide psychological and neurofeedback services for children, adolescents, and adults to promote enhanced awareness, self-regulation, psychological resilience, and healing. We emphasize the importance of providing an emotionally safe and compassionate environment for building trust and therapeutic rapport, while developing individualized treatment plans that incorporate evidence-based practice.
(613) 831-4547 View (613) 831-4547
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Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Counsellors

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.