Photo of Denise Lawee, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Denise Lawee
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6C  (Online Only)
I use evidence based therapy approaches such as cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), dialectical behaviour therapy ( DBT) and trauma-focussed cbt (TF-CBT).
I am an experienced therapist with 34 years of practice to draw upon. I will listen carefully as you describe the issues that you need support and help to sort out. Often, an increased understanding of the challenges that you face can be very helpful to move forward in your life. As well, learning some new skills to manage the issues and/or gaining a new perspective on the issues can be useful as well. I appreciate that it is not easy to embark on a therapy course so I make every effort to be supportive and understanding as we build a therapy relationship.
I use evidence based therapy approaches such as cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), dialectical behaviour therapy ( DBT) and trauma-focussed cbt (TF-CBT).
I am an experienced therapist with 34 years of practice to draw upon. I will listen carefully as you describe the issues that you need support and help to sort out. Often, an increased understanding of the challenges that you face can be very helpful to move forward in your life. As well, learning some new skills to manage the issues and/or gaining a new perspective on the issues can be useful as well. I appreciate that it is not easy to embark on a therapy course so I make every effort to be supportive and understanding as we build a therapy relationship.
(289) 271-1256 View (289) 271-1256
Photo of Karen Lynn Goslin, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Karen Lynn Goslin
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6C
With over 30 years of clinical experience, I welcome Children, Teens, Adults, Couples & Families into my practice who are facing anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, grief, addiction, chronic pain/illness, or stress from relationship conflicts. I specialize in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), Relapse Prevention Therapy, and Self-Care which are personalized to your unique circumstance. I also provide a special Couple's Program and a Deeper Healing Program that addresses pain and utilizes strength to repair.
With over 30 years of clinical experience, I welcome Children, Teens, Adults, Couples & Families into my practice who are facing anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, grief, addiction, chronic pain/illness, or stress from relationship conflicts. I specialize in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), Relapse Prevention Therapy, and Self-Care which are personalized to your unique circumstance. I also provide a special Couple's Program and a Deeper Healing Program that addresses pain and utilizes strength to repair.
(647) 696-9623 View (647) 696-9623
Photo of Jessica Warnock, MEd, BEd, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Jessica Warnock
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, BEd, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6C  (Online Only)
I have specialized training in DBT, CBT, EFT, EFFT, IFS, Mindfulness and trauma work.
I bring a gentle, curious and attuned approach to my work with individuals, families and couples. Together, we will examine patterns in your life, identify and expand your capacity to cope with the challenges you experience and deepen your relationship with self and others. I view therapy as taking a course on oneself and an opportunity to evolve. My work is often focused on supporting clients to understand, experience and tolerate emotions and to shift out of behavours, thoughts and coping that are no longer serving them.
I have specialized training in DBT, CBT, EFT, EFFT, IFS, Mindfulness and trauma work.
I bring a gentle, curious and attuned approach to my work with individuals, families and couples. Together, we will examine patterns in your life, identify and expand your capacity to cope with the challenges you experience and deepen your relationship with self and others. I view therapy as taking a course on oneself and an opportunity to evolve. My work is often focused on supporting clients to understand, experience and tolerate emotions and to shift out of behavours, thoughts and coping that are no longer serving them.
(647) 797-9901 View (647) 797-9901
Photo of Maya Budovitch, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Maya Budovitch
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6C  (Online Only)
I draw upon Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, self-compassion and mindfulness, while maintaining a client-centered and strengths-based approach.
Hello and welcome! When it comes to the search for a therapist, I know that it can be difficult to find the right fit. My hope is that you can find comfort, acceptance, and the space to express yourself in the time we spend together. I aim to work with you, to get to know you, and to support you with anything you choose to bring into our sessions. Whether it be feelings of anxiety, depression, life transitions, difficulties with relationships or friendships, low self-esteem, loss, or feeling stuck or overwhelmed or anything in between, I'm glad you're seeking support. It can help to share with someone who cares.
I draw upon Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, self-compassion and mindfulness, while maintaining a client-centered and strengths-based approach.
Hello and welcome! When it comes to the search for a therapist, I know that it can be difficult to find the right fit. My hope is that you can find comfort, acceptance, and the space to express yourself in the time we spend together. I aim to work with you, to get to know you, and to support you with anything you choose to bring into our sessions. Whether it be feelings of anxiety, depression, life transitions, difficulties with relationships or friendships, low self-esteem, loss, or feeling stuck or overwhelmed or anything in between, I'm glad you're seeking support. It can help to share with someone who cares.
(365) 300-1681 View (365) 300-1681
Photo of Oliver Healey, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Oliver Healey
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6C  (Online Only)
I work by integrating a variety of therapeutic approaches such as emotions-focused, narrative, self-compassion, and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, to name a few.
Grief. It's a word heavy with emotion that often brings up images of loss, sadness, and heartache. But grief is so much more than that. It's a rollercoaster of emotions that is inevitable at some point in life. When we think of grief, we often think of the loss of a loved one. While undoubtedly a significant kind of it, grief can take many forms. It can be the witnessing of another's pain, loss of a job, a relationship, a dream unrealized. It can be the end of an era, the closing of a chapter, the diagnosis of life-altering illness, and the shattering of expectations. No matter the form it takes, grief often feels deeply isolating.
I work by integrating a variety of therapeutic approaches such as emotions-focused, narrative, self-compassion, and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, to name a few.
Grief. It's a word heavy with emotion that often brings up images of loss, sadness, and heartache. But grief is so much more than that. It's a rollercoaster of emotions that is inevitable at some point in life. When we think of grief, we often think of the loss of a loved one. While undoubtedly a significant kind of it, grief can take many forms. It can be the witnessing of another's pain, loss of a job, a relationship, a dream unrealized. It can be the end of an era, the closing of a chapter, the diagnosis of life-altering illness, and the shattering of expectations. No matter the form it takes, grief often feels deeply isolating.
(437) 529-4440 View (437) 529-4440
Photo of Nubia Alfonso - Heart Mind Therapy & Team, MSW-RSW, Registered Social Worker
Heart Mind Therapy & Team
Registered Social Worker, MSW-RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6C  (Online Only)
You deserve to be free and to live a full and happy life! It is our genuine desire that you experience personal freedom. From this safe space you will be able to discover your true identity that will help you connect that Heart-Mind Unity that helps you live from the Fullness of Being. You will be able to dismantle negative beliefs and perceptions about life and find the wisdom to solve present difficulties. You will learn to restore healthy perspectives that will lead you to realize your dreams, resolve conflicting desires, navigate the demands that are made on you, and find meaning to your existence.
You deserve to be free and to live a full and happy life! It is our genuine desire that you experience personal freedom. From this safe space you will be able to discover your true identity that will help you connect that Heart-Mind Unity that helps you live from the Fullness of Being. You will be able to dismantle negative beliefs and perceptions about life and find the wisdom to solve present difficulties. You will learn to restore healthy perspectives that will lead you to realize your dreams, resolve conflicting desires, navigate the demands that are made on you, and find meaning to your existence.
(647) 905-9346 View (647) 905-9346
Photo of Cara Tedstone - Parents Family Youth And Couples - Midtown Toronto, MACP, BEd, Registered Psychotherapist
Cara Tedstone - Parents Family Youth And Couples - Midtown Toronto
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, BEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6C
In the midst of the relentless whirlwind of parenting, each night can feel like it’s blending into the next as you wrestle with worry, exhaustion, and isolation. You may find yourself awake, consumed by thoughts of your child's struggles, desperately seeking solace and guidance in a sea of conflicting information. In today's world it's a lonely journey, one where the weight of uncertainty and the absence of a manual can feel SO suffocating. As a mom and EFFT-trained family, couples and youth therapist, my skillset is helping caregivers and young people with the complex relational and behavioural challenges they face.
In the midst of the relentless whirlwind of parenting, each night can feel like it’s blending into the next as you wrestle with worry, exhaustion, and isolation. You may find yourself awake, consumed by thoughts of your child's struggles, desperately seeking solace and guidance in a sea of conflicting information. In today's world it's a lonely journey, one where the weight of uncertainty and the absence of a manual can feel SO suffocating. As a mom and EFFT-trained family, couples and youth therapist, my skillset is helping caregivers and young people with the complex relational and behavioural challenges they face.
(647) 956-6835 View (647) 956-6835
Photo of Peter Stathakos - Peter Stathakos & Associates Inc, BBA, MDiv, MSW, CMAT, CSAT, Registered Social Worker
Peter Stathakos & Associates Inc
Registered Social Worker, BBA, MDiv, MSW, CMAT, CSAT
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6C
I specialize in creating customized treatment plans for individuals/couples struggling with sexual dysfunctions and addictions. Sexual Trauma, Porn Addiction, Love Addiction and Sex Crimes are my specialties. My approach not only supports those facing these challenges but also helps partners and families who may feel confused and hurt. According to Parole Services, no one under my care has ever sexually re-offended, and only five couples have ever separated while working with me. I also help with sexual enhancement, intimacy growth, and relationship recovery. Imagine the possibilities that effective therapy can bring to your life.
I specialize in creating customized treatment plans for individuals/couples struggling with sexual dysfunctions and addictions. Sexual Trauma, Porn Addiction, Love Addiction and Sex Crimes are my specialties. My approach not only supports those facing these challenges but also helps partners and families who may feel confused and hurt. According to Parole Services, no one under my care has ever sexually re-offended, and only five couples have ever separated while working with me. I also help with sexual enhancement, intimacy growth, and relationship recovery. Imagine the possibilities that effective therapy can bring to your life.
(437) 800-8860 View (437) 800-8860
Photo of Bonnie-Sue Solomon - Anxiety-Depression-Emotion Dysregulation-CBT-DBT, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Anxiety-Depression-Emotion Dysregulation-CBT-DBT
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6C
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, anxious, depressed, hopeless, lonely,confused, scared, frustrated or stuck? Are the issues that you are facing getting in the way of your daily functioning, enjoyment, health, relationships, goals, academic success, job performance and of the hopes and dreams that you have for yourself? Are you tired of feeling the way that you are and want something different for yourself? If you answered "Yes" to any of the above, then you've come to the right place! We can work together to help you move toward a healthier and happier place in a way that fits for you.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, anxious, depressed, hopeless, lonely,confused, scared, frustrated or stuck? Are the issues that you are facing getting in the way of your daily functioning, enjoyment, health, relationships, goals, academic success, job performance and of the hopes and dreams that you have for yourself? Are you tired of feeling the way that you are and want something different for yourself? If you answered "Yes" to any of the above, then you've come to the right place! We can work together to help you move toward a healthier and happier place in a way that fits for you.
(647) 930-5875 View (647) 930-5875
Photo of Zoë Sas, MSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Zoë Sas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6C  (Online Only)
We all have internal struggles (lack of confidence, ability to maintain boundaries, etc.), conflict at work, in a romantic relationship or family system, and/or issues adjusting to big changes in life (having a child, a loss, etc.). Working with a therapist can help you to get to where you want to be heading, and give you the space that you need to talk it out. Together, we will address whatever it might be that is impacting you, and help you to feel empowered find a way forward.
We all have internal struggles (lack of confidence, ability to maintain boundaries, etc.), conflict at work, in a romantic relationship or family system, and/or issues adjusting to big changes in life (having a child, a loss, etc.). Working with a therapist can help you to get to where you want to be heading, and give you the space that you need to talk it out. Together, we will address whatever it might be that is impacting you, and help you to feel empowered find a way forward.
(647) 578-7356 View (647) 578-7356
Photo of Marlee Rubel, MEd, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Marlee Rubel
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6C  (Online Only)
I work with adults and couples to help them move towards a state of continued growth, compassion, and self-awareness in a way that is collaborative, strengths-based, and empowering. I believe in creating a client-therapist relationship that fosters authenticity, support, and space for both acceptance, and for change. This can begin in our very first session. Together, we can begin to tease apart the adaptive approaches to dealing with and moving through life you've grown accustomed to, and begin to decipher which of these patterns are serving you, and which you may be interested in moving beyond.
I work with adults and couples to help them move towards a state of continued growth, compassion, and self-awareness in a way that is collaborative, strengths-based, and empowering. I believe in creating a client-therapist relationship that fosters authenticity, support, and space for both acceptance, and for change. This can begin in our very first session. Together, we can begin to tease apart the adaptive approaches to dealing with and moving through life you've grown accustomed to, and begin to decipher which of these patterns are serving you, and which you may be interested in moving beyond.
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Photo of Reuben Howlett - Reuben Howlett - Restful Healing Psychotherapy, MACP, MAPSYC, Registered Psychotherapist
Reuben Howlett - Restful Healing Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, MAPSYC
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6C  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients! I am well renowned for working with relationship issues (using attachment theory) with individuals and couples, and mood disorders (depression, anxiety). I have robust expertise in treating concerns surrounding sleep/insomnia. Beyond that I treat struggles of self-esteem/self-worth, existential questions, burnout, life transitions, and other concerns. I also have lengthy career experience working therapeutically with grief and loss, as well as caregiver burnout. Yes that's a lot, but I just thinking helping people to heal is very neat, and so I have learned much and studied hard to be able to take care of you
Accepting New Clients! I am well renowned for working with relationship issues (using attachment theory) with individuals and couples, and mood disorders (depression, anxiety). I have robust expertise in treating concerns surrounding sleep/insomnia. Beyond that I treat struggles of self-esteem/self-worth, existential questions, burnout, life transitions, and other concerns. I also have lengthy career experience working therapeutically with grief and loss, as well as caregiver burnout. Yes that's a lot, but I just thinking helping people to heal is very neat, and so I have learned much and studied hard to be able to take care of you
(289) 274-8416 View (289) 274-8416
Photo of Melina Condren, MA, Registered Psychotherapist
Melina Condren
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6C  (Online Only)
If you’re feeling burned out, stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from others, therapy can be an important step towards change and healing. It can help you understand your needs, process difficult experiences, let go of harsh-self criticism, develop new coping strategies, and rediscover what’s truly important to you. I especially love helping clients reconnect with who they are under all of the masks they’ve been wearing for others, and supporting them in understanding and working towards their own unique vision for meaningful relationships and a fulfilling life.
If you’re feeling burned out, stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from others, therapy can be an important step towards change and healing. It can help you understand your needs, process difficult experiences, let go of harsh-self criticism, develop new coping strategies, and rediscover what’s truly important to you. I especially love helping clients reconnect with who they are under all of the masks they’ve been wearing for others, and supporting them in understanding and working towards their own unique vision for meaningful relationships and a fulfilling life.
(289) 806-5394 View (289) 806-5394
Photo of Naomi Ennis, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Naomi Ennis
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6C  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to cope with a traumatic event, life transition, or stress? Having issues in your romantic relationship? Struggling to manage tough feelings? Feel like you are not living life in a way that matters to you? I am a clinical psychologist who provides evidence-based treatment to couples and adults looking to reduce their stress and anxiety, improve their mood and relationships, navigate life transitions and get help with a variety of other mental health needs (including but not limited to those listed on my profile). My practice is anti-oppressive, 2SLGBTQ+ affirmative, and trauma-informed.
Are you struggling to cope with a traumatic event, life transition, or stress? Having issues in your romantic relationship? Struggling to manage tough feelings? Feel like you are not living life in a way that matters to you? I am a clinical psychologist who provides evidence-based treatment to couples and adults looking to reduce their stress and anxiety, improve their mood and relationships, navigate life transitions and get help with a variety of other mental health needs (including but not limited to those listed on my profile). My practice is anti-oppressive, 2SLGBTQ+ affirmative, and trauma-informed.
(437) 747-2884 View (437) 747-2884
Photo of Wayne Gray, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Wayne Gray
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
York, ON M6C  (Online Only)
Wayne supports youth and adults seeking help rediscovering their self-worth, fortifying challenging relationships, removing hurdles that intensify substance dependence, or living with a mental health diagnosis. With over a decade of experience in community mental health and substance use, Wayne is able to address addiction, chronic stress, insecurity, depression and anxiety, and other mental health challenges. Couples therapy work has also been a particular passion for Wayne. He can support you in exploring and refining communication, context, compromise, and chemistry.
Wayne supports youth and adults seeking help rediscovering their self-worth, fortifying challenging relationships, removing hurdles that intensify substance dependence, or living with a mental health diagnosis. With over a decade of experience in community mental health and substance use, Wayne is able to address addiction, chronic stress, insecurity, depression and anxiety, and other mental health challenges. Couples therapy work has also been a particular passion for Wayne. He can support you in exploring and refining communication, context, compromise, and chemistry.
(437) 500-6299 View (437) 500-6299
Photo of Leslie Ann Molnar, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Leslie Ann Molnar
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6C  (Online Only)
Life is a process and journey that takes us in several different directions; sometimes we come to a crossroads where we must reconsider the direction our life is taking. Navigating the countless opportunities and challenges in life can often be overwhelming. In my practice, I work with you to explore options and possibilities for change; I believe that knowing you have choices in your life can foster hope and confidence in reaching your desired goals. As a trained Mental Health Practitioner and Addiction Specialist my areas of specialty include addictions, trauma, mood and anxiety disorders and interpersonal conflict.
Life is a process and journey that takes us in several different directions; sometimes we come to a crossroads where we must reconsider the direction our life is taking. Navigating the countless opportunities and challenges in life can often be overwhelming. In my practice, I work with you to explore options and possibilities for change; I believe that knowing you have choices in your life can foster hope and confidence in reaching your desired goals. As a trained Mental Health Practitioner and Addiction Specialist my areas of specialty include addictions, trauma, mood and anxiety disorders and interpersonal conflict.
(437) 747-2885 View (437) 747-2885
Photo of Kathleen McLean, BSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Kathleen McLean
Registered Social Worker, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6C  (Online Only)
I believe that challenges can be beautiful, albeit deeply painful, opportunities to create a life you feel inspired to live There is hope in every situation, and often life’s greatest lessons are learned during its biggest obstacles. Life's not always easy. Hardships and transitions can blindside you and leave you feeling like you’re just trying to survive, and on autopilot. And then the questions come: Who am I? How did I get here? The life you have doesn’t reflect the one you imagined. While we can not change the past, we can choose to create meaning in our experiences, and determine how its legacy comes forward with us.
I believe that challenges can be beautiful, albeit deeply painful, opportunities to create a life you feel inspired to live There is hope in every situation, and often life’s greatest lessons are learned during its biggest obstacles. Life's not always easy. Hardships and transitions can blindside you and leave you feeling like you’re just trying to survive, and on autopilot. And then the questions come: Who am I? How did I get here? The life you have doesn’t reflect the one you imagined. While we can not change the past, we can choose to create meaning in our experiences, and determine how its legacy comes forward with us.
(289) 302-7151 View (289) 302-7151
Photo of Sean Hale, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Sean Hale
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6C  (Online Only)
I have 12+ years experience working in coaching and psychotherapy. While working with both individuals and couples, I provide an empathetic and non-judgemental approach. I work with a range of clients and specialize in Relationship issues, Men's issues, Life Transitions, Communication, Self-esteem, Identity development, Overcoming Shame, Mood regulation and LGBTQ+ issues. My approach is eclectic, meaning that one size does not fit all. I work within your paradigm to find what works for you. I work with you at your pace and using methodologies that are most suited to your needs.
I have 12+ years experience working in coaching and psychotherapy. While working with both individuals and couples, I provide an empathetic and non-judgemental approach. I work with a range of clients and specialize in Relationship issues, Men's issues, Life Transitions, Communication, Self-esteem, Identity development, Overcoming Shame, Mood regulation and LGBTQ+ issues. My approach is eclectic, meaning that one size does not fit all. I work within your paradigm to find what works for you. I work with you at your pace and using methodologies that are most suited to your needs.
(647) 905-0540 View (647) 905-0540
Photo of Marina Vinokurov Psychotherapy, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Marina Vinokurov Psychotherapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6C
I am a registered social worker with over 16 years of experience in providing individual and family therapy in adult and children mental health settings. I support individuals and families with interpersonal challenges, mental health concerns, coping with childhood trauma, work stress, transitions and emotional concerns. My work is focused on compassionately exploring and transforming deeply rooted, unsettling patterns in relationship with self and others. In therapeutic relationship where my clients feel deeply understood, we integrate relational, emotional, cognitive and body-oriented experiences to facilitate meaningful change.
I am a registered social worker with over 16 years of experience in providing individual and family therapy in adult and children mental health settings. I support individuals and families with interpersonal challenges, mental health concerns, coping with childhood trauma, work stress, transitions and emotional concerns. My work is focused on compassionately exploring and transforming deeply rooted, unsettling patterns in relationship with self and others. In therapeutic relationship where my clients feel deeply understood, we integrate relational, emotional, cognitive and body-oriented experiences to facilitate meaningful change.
(647) 696-8516 View (647) 696-8516
Photo of Alexandra Hazi, Registered Social Worker
Alexandra Hazi
Registered Social Worker
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6C
Not accepting new clients
You are hurt beyond belief. The person you trusted; the person that committed to you. The person who told you that they love you.... is the person that has betrayed you! This is a shocking discovery, even if it is not the first time! I understand the heart ache, the confusion and the difficulty in trying to navigate your present pain and work towards re-grounding yourself and healing.
You are hurt beyond belief. The person you trusted; the person that committed to you. The person who told you that they love you.... is the person that has betrayed you! This is a shocking discovery, even if it is not the first time! I understand the heart ache, the confusion and the difficulty in trying to navigate your present pain and work towards re-grounding yourself and healing.
(437) 747-6275 View (437) 747-6275
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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.