Photo of Montreal Mental Wellness Clinic, Psychologist in Montréal, QC
Montreal Mental Wellness Clinic
Psychologist, PhD, OPQ, Prof, McGill
Verified Verified
Montréal, QC H3X
I have a longstanding personal, clinical, and research expertise in mindfulness based approaches (including MBSR, MBCT, DBT, and ACT).
Are you overwhelmed by anxiety and depression? Are you struggling to manage your emotions and symptoms? Maybe your struggle is impacting your relationships, and taking away your hope and objectives. You may know that you are not alone in your suffering. If you allow me, I will be here to help you. My goal is to help you transcend difficult life experiences, symptoms of depression and anxiety, and regain a sense of ease, peace, emotional balance. I work with individuals and groups in-clinic and on-line (via Skype) with a cognitive-behavioral, mindful, accepting, non-judgmental, and compassionate approach.
I have a longstanding personal, clinical, and research expertise in mindfulness based approaches (including MBSR, MBCT, DBT, and ACT).
Are you overwhelmed by anxiety and depression? Are you struggling to manage your emotions and symptoms? Maybe your struggle is impacting your relationships, and taking away your hope and objectives. You may know that you are not alone in your suffering. If you allow me, I will be here to help you. My goal is to help you transcend difficult life experiences, symptoms of depression and anxiety, and regain a sense of ease, peace, emotional balance. I work with individuals and groups in-clinic and on-line (via Skype) with a cognitive-behavioral, mindful, accepting, non-judgmental, and compassionate approach.
(438) 700-2220 View (438) 700-2220
Photo of Cynthia Saini, Registered Psychotherapist in Montréal, QC
Cynthia Saini
Registered Psychotherapist, BSW, OPQ, TS
Verified Verified
Montréal, QC H4A  (Online Only)
I also have clinical experience in a variety of cognitive evidence-based techniques, including trauma-informed Mindfulness (MBCT), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
I believe that warmth, positive regard, and acceptance are important to find the insights and tools for an important change in our lives. It is important for me to build a therapeutic relationship with genuineness and work together to enhance self-awareness and self-compassion. I prioritize allowing each person the agency to adapt techniques to their individual experiences or needs. I have a strong interest in individuals and the impact of society, culture on the development of personality. My passion for mental health, advocacy, and counselling has guided my practice and work through trauma to find strength and resilience.
I also have clinical experience in a variety of cognitive evidence-based techniques, including trauma-informed Mindfulness (MBCT), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
I believe that warmth, positive regard, and acceptance are important to find the insights and tools for an important change in our lives. It is important for me to build a therapeutic relationship with genuineness and work together to enhance self-awareness and self-compassion. I prioritize allowing each person the agency to adapt techniques to their individual experiences or needs. I have a strong interest in individuals and the impact of society, culture on the development of personality. My passion for mental health, advocacy, and counselling has guided my practice and work through trauma to find strength and resilience.
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Photo of Ronna Schwartz, Registered Psychotherapist in Montréal, QC
Ronna Schwartz
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, OTR
Verified Verified
Montréal, QC H4C  (Online Only)
ACT, DBT, humanist) in order address diverse needs and mental health issues (anxiety, depression, psychosis, personality disorders, addiction).
I have spent my professional life working with individuals suffering from mental health issues. I am interested in helping to cultivate conditions that promote recovery. The ideal client would want to understand their role in this process and be willing to work collaboratively on a therapeutic plan. I am best reached by email.
ACT, DBT, humanist) in order address diverse needs and mental health issues (anxiety, depression, psychosis, personality disorders, addiction).
I have spent my professional life working with individuals suffering from mental health issues. I am interested in helping to cultivate conditions that promote recovery. The ideal client would want to understand their role in this process and be willing to work collaboratively on a therapeutic plan. I am best reached by email.
(438) 817-3505 View (438) 817-3505
Photo of Susie Showers, Counsellor in Montréal, QC
Susie Showers
Counsellor, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Montréal, QC H2J
With my clinical experience supporting LGBTQ+ folks, as well as my art and theatre background, I have developed an approach combining theatre arts, DBT & somatic techniques help you settle your nervous system so you can prioritize vitality and pleasure.
Your relationships can be an incredible source of pleasure and connection, AND they can be the biggest source of tension and exhaustion. You might feel rigid and uncreative, or be falling into people-pleasing habits. You may feel overwhelming physical sensations of constriction, pain or numbness. You play a vast range of roles in your friendships, romantic & intimate dynamics, and at work. This can be a lot to handle, and you may be masking your authentic self. Creative arts therapy can offer new ways to find playfulness so you can relax into intimacy in your relationships, your body, and fully own the stories that shape you.
With my clinical experience supporting LGBTQ+ folks, as well as my art and theatre background, I have developed an approach combining theatre arts, DBT & somatic techniques help you settle your nervous system so you can prioritize vitality and pleasure.
Your relationships can be an incredible source of pleasure and connection, AND they can be the biggest source of tension and exhaustion. You might feel rigid and uncreative, or be falling into people-pleasing habits. You may feel overwhelming physical sensations of constriction, pain or numbness. You play a vast range of roles in your friendships, romantic & intimate dynamics, and at work. This can be a lot to handle, and you may be masking your authentic self. Creative arts therapy can offer new ways to find playfulness so you can relax into intimacy in your relationships, your body, and fully own the stories that shape you.
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Photo of Sonia Dillon, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Montréal, QC
Sonia Dillon
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BsC, MACP, EMDR
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Montréal, QC H3B  (Online Only)
I draw from evidence-based therapeutic modalities, such as EMDR, CBT, DBT, EFT, Gottman Method, Imago therapy, and IFS.
Accepting new clients - Struggling with relationships can be overwhelming. Battling anxiety and low mood can be draining. Grief can be life changing. Stress and trauma can be paralyzing. You’re not alone and I am happy to help. I am here to listen and offer support in a space filled with comfort, knowledge, and without judgement. A space where we can work together, as a team, to overcome these challenges. I am committed to building a trusting and collaborative relationship with each person, where they not only feel heard, valued, and understood, while having something to take away from each session.
I draw from evidence-based therapeutic modalities, such as EMDR, CBT, DBT, EFT, Gottman Method, Imago therapy, and IFS.
Accepting new clients - Struggling with relationships can be overwhelming. Battling anxiety and low mood can be draining. Grief can be life changing. Stress and trauma can be paralyzing. You’re not alone and I am happy to help. I am here to listen and offer support in a space filled with comfort, knowledge, and without judgement. A space where we can work together, as a team, to overcome these challenges. I am committed to building a trusting and collaborative relationship with each person, where they not only feel heard, valued, and understood, while having something to take away from each session.
(647) 901-3017 View (647) 901-3017
Photo of Michelle Strazzeri Psychotherapy For You Quebec), Registered Social Worker in Montréal, QC
Michelle Strazzeri Psychotherapy For You Quebec)
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Montréal, QC H1A  (Online Only)
As a Therapist I use a strength-based, client focused approach and a variety of evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness and Brief Solution Focused Therapy to help you live your best life.
For 9 years I have worked with individuals, couples and families on a wide variety of issues including communication breakdown, trauma, abuse, accident, injury, addictions, depression, anxiety and other mental health concerns. I understand that change is difficult, and it is hard to take the first step in seeking out therapy support. I know it takes courage to start this process. I offer a safe, private, confidential environment to explore what you want your life to look like and to help you get there. Therapy is hard work, but the reward is a more satisfying you.
As a Therapist I use a strength-based, client focused approach and a variety of evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness and Brief Solution Focused Therapy to help you live your best life.
For 9 years I have worked with individuals, couples and families on a wide variety of issues including communication breakdown, trauma, abuse, accident, injury, addictions, depression, anxiety and other mental health concerns. I understand that change is difficult, and it is hard to take the first step in seeking out therapy support. I know it takes courage to start this process. I offer a safe, private, confidential environment to explore what you want your life to look like and to help you get there. Therapy is hard work, but the reward is a more satisfying you.
(581) 880-2403 View (581) 880-2403
Brianna Frances McGirr
Counsellor, MACP
Verified Verified
Montréal, QC H3W
Waitlist for new clients
Experienced work with adolescents, LGBTQ+, families, children with special needs, individual therapy, group/family therapy, couples counselling, CBT, DBT.
My goals are to provide a safe, comfortable space to help individuals navigate difficult and vulnerable periods of their lives. Today's world can seem overwhelming, increasing our feelings of stress, anxiety and depression. I help clients better understand their symptoms and psychological wellbeing, to help move forward and manage future difficulties. Presently working as a high school counsellor, supporting students in their socio-emotional needs and helping families work through these processes together.
Experienced work with adolescents, LGBTQ+, families, children with special needs, individual therapy, group/family therapy, couples counselling, CBT, DBT.
My goals are to provide a safe, comfortable space to help individuals navigate difficult and vulnerable periods of their lives. Today's world can seem overwhelming, increasing our feelings of stress, anxiety and depression. I help clients better understand their symptoms and psychological wellbeing, to help move forward and manage future difficulties. Presently working as a high school counsellor, supporting students in their socio-emotional needs and helping families work through these processes together.
(450) 497-0143 View (450) 497-0143
Photo of Lina Shenderovich, Counsellor in Montréal, QC
Lina Shenderovich
Counsellor, MS, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montréal, QC H4A
I am trained in cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), and mindfulness.
These difficult times take their toll on all of us. It is very important to be able to talk to a professional to prevent losing control of your emotions and being overwhelmed by anxieties. I am available for remote video or phone sessions. Do you want to feel good about your choices? Do you want your relationships to be fulfilling? Do you want to be a happy, calm, and confident person who thrives and succeeds? Allow yourself to follow that dream. Helping my clients succeed in their personal and professional relationships is my passion and life’s calling.
I am trained in cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), and mindfulness.
These difficult times take their toll on all of us. It is very important to be able to talk to a professional to prevent losing control of your emotions and being overwhelmed by anxieties. I am available for remote video or phone sessions. Do you want to feel good about your choices? Do you want your relationships to be fulfilling? Do you want to be a happy, calm, and confident person who thrives and succeeds? Allow yourself to follow that dream. Helping my clients succeed in their personal and professional relationships is my passion and life’s calling.
(438) 834-2870 View (438) 834-2870
Photo of Christine Blain-Arcaro, Psychologist in Montréal, QC
Christine Blain-Arcaro
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Montréal, QC H3Z  (Online Only)
Interventions include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical-Behavioral Therapy (DBT), client-centered, and acceptance commitment therapy (ACT).
Do you find yourself grappling with the complexities of life, feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or struggling in your relationships? Do you struggle with the challenges of parenting, losing patience with your kids and then feeling overwhelming guilt? Are you a new mom or dad having difficulty adjusting to your new identity? Do you have an exuberant toddler and aren't sure how to intervene? Yes life can be challenging but I'm here to help you navigate it and seeking support is a courageous first step. My goal is to guide you towards positive outcomes and empower you to thrive in all aspects of your life.
Interventions include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical-Behavioral Therapy (DBT), client-centered, and acceptance commitment therapy (ACT).
Do you find yourself grappling with the complexities of life, feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or struggling in your relationships? Do you struggle with the challenges of parenting, losing patience with your kids and then feeling overwhelming guilt? Are you a new mom or dad having difficulty adjusting to your new identity? Do you have an exuberant toddler and aren't sure how to intervene? Yes life can be challenging but I'm here to help you navigate it and seeking support is a courageous first step. My goal is to guide you towards positive outcomes and empower you to thrive in all aspects of your life.
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Photo of Sandrine Aschour in Montréal, QC
Sandrine Aschour
CCTP, CHC, CLC
Verified Verified
Montréal, QC H4P
I combine components of cognitive behavioral therapies (ACT, CBT, DBT), mindfulness techniques, and solution-focused problem solving techniques to tailor to your needs.
Do you feel aspects of your life need improvement, direction, guidance, change, or growth? Is the old tried and true approach you take, not working anymore? Come improve your mood, reduce anxiety, strengthen self-esteem, manage stress, work through academic/social/professional challenges, improve your relationships and communication, strengthen parenting techniques, and have smoother life transitions. If you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, having relational problems, abusing substances (drugs, alcohol, gambling, shopping, overeating), or have experienced trauma (abuse, violence, accident), I can help you. Free initial consult.
I combine components of cognitive behavioral therapies (ACT, CBT, DBT), mindfulness techniques, and solution-focused problem solving techniques to tailor to your needs.
Do you feel aspects of your life need improvement, direction, guidance, change, or growth? Is the old tried and true approach you take, not working anymore? Come improve your mood, reduce anxiety, strengthen self-esteem, manage stress, work through academic/social/professional challenges, improve your relationships and communication, strengthen parenting techniques, and have smoother life transitions. If you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, having relational problems, abusing substances (drugs, alcohol, gambling, shopping, overeating), or have experienced trauma (abuse, violence, accident), I can help you. Free initial consult.
(438) 230-0142 View (438) 230-0142
Photo of Dr. Leah Beaulieu, Psychologist in Montréal, QC
Dr. Leah Beaulieu
Psychologist, PhD, OPQ
Verified Verified
Montréal, QC H3A  (Online Only)
I am a licensed psychologist working with adults of all ages in individual therapy. My areas of expertise include treatments for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, emotion regulation, and interpersonal difficulties. I believe that effective psychotherapy begins with a collaborative, warm, and honest relationship between the client and therapist. As we build this relationship, we will navigate the goals, needs, and changes that are most important to you.
I am a licensed psychologist working with adults of all ages in individual therapy. My areas of expertise include treatments for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, emotion regulation, and interpersonal difficulties. I believe that effective psychotherapy begins with a collaborative, warm, and honest relationship between the client and therapist. As we build this relationship, we will navigate the goals, needs, and changes that are most important to you.
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Photo of Helena Vassiliou, Counsellor in Montréal, QC
Helena Vassiliou
Counsellor, MA, CCC, ATPQ
Verified Verified
Montréal, QC H4C  (Online Only)
If you struggle with never feeling good enough, perfectionism, or frequent burnout from people pleasing, you’re not alone. Maybe you grew up playing a role in your family that you’re trying to grow out of, but find yourself stuck, repeating old patterns as an adult. I’m here to help. Some things we may explore include: bottled up feelings or unmet needs, what motivates you to behave or think in certain ways, setting effective boundaries, and letting go of what no longer serves you. This work makes it possible for you to heal old wounds, end painful cycles, enjoy more satisfying relationships, and make way for your authentic self.
If you struggle with never feeling good enough, perfectionism, or frequent burnout from people pleasing, you’re not alone. Maybe you grew up playing a role in your family that you’re trying to grow out of, but find yourself stuck, repeating old patterns as an adult. I’m here to help. Some things we may explore include: bottled up feelings or unmet needs, what motivates you to behave or think in certain ways, setting effective boundaries, and letting go of what no longer serves you. This work makes it possible for you to heal old wounds, end painful cycles, enjoy more satisfying relationships, and make way for your authentic self.
(438) 803-5274 View (438) 803-5274
Photo of Beverly Bonner, Registered Social Worker in Montréal, QC
Beverly Bonner
Registered Social Worker, MSW
Verified Verified
Montréal, QC H4A
Offering a safe, respectful and caring environment to take on life's challenges: including anxiety, depression, life crisis, developmental and transitional crisis, grief, conflicts in personal or work relationships; parenting, pregnancy and post-natal concerns. With a firm belief in a person's inner wisdom, I work with clients to clearly identify their values and strengths towards reducing anguish and increasing hope. Using an eclectic approach suitable to client personality and individual circumstances, counselling is done in a collaborative, holistic context.
Offering a safe, respectful and caring environment to take on life's challenges: including anxiety, depression, life crisis, developmental and transitional crisis, grief, conflicts in personal or work relationships; parenting, pregnancy and post-natal concerns. With a firm belief in a person's inner wisdom, I work with clients to clearly identify their values and strengths towards reducing anguish and increasing hope. Using an eclectic approach suitable to client personality and individual circumstances, counselling is done in a collaborative, holistic context.
(438) 834-2031 View (438) 834-2031
Photo of Lily Jiménez Dabdoub Neurolotus Art Therapy , Art Therapist in Montréal, QC
Lily Jiménez Dabdoub Neurolotus Art Therapy
Art Therapist, CCC, ATPQ, ND, MACAT, BScPsy, BSPsy
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Montréal, QC H2X
Waitlist for new clients
Maya Angelou once said, “there is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you”. I am here to support you in expressing your untold stories. I will witness and listen to your untold stories and help you express and process them through the tools that expressive arts therapies provide, particularly art. Art therapy is a less challenging medium to explore your emotional needs. Through our art therapy sessions I will help you catch those overwhelming emotions and entangled thoughts. Together we will be able to find the best strategies for you to make the changes you need to feel better and heal.
Maya Angelou once said, “there is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you”. I am here to support you in expressing your untold stories. I will witness and listen to your untold stories and help you express and process them through the tools that expressive arts therapies provide, particularly art. Art therapy is a less challenging medium to explore your emotional needs. Through our art therapy sessions I will help you catch those overwhelming emotions and entangled thoughts. Together we will be able to find the best strategies for you to make the changes you need to feel better and heal.
(438) 817-0371 View (438) 817-0371
Photo of Bianca Pungartnik, Registered Psychotherapist in Montréal, QC
Bianca Pungartnik
Registered Psychotherapist, OPQ, OCCOQ, CCC, NIHB, CRPO
Verified Verified
Montréal, QC H3Z
Throughout our sessions, I strive to create an environment of compassion, acceptance, and present moment awareness. I don't see myself as fundamentally different from the client, but rather as someone who can bring a fresh perspective to their situation. I believe that the client and I are both climbing our own mountains, and I can use my vantage point to identify obstacles on their mountain that they may not be aware of. In therapy, every struggle is important, and no one's pain is greater or less than another's. Together, we can then find new ways to navigate these obstacles and chart a new course towards a more fulfilling life.
Throughout our sessions, I strive to create an environment of compassion, acceptance, and present moment awareness. I don't see myself as fundamentally different from the client, but rather as someone who can bring a fresh perspective to their situation. I believe that the client and I are both climbing our own mountains, and I can use my vantage point to identify obstacles on their mountain that they may not be aware of. In therapy, every struggle is important, and no one's pain is greater or less than another's. Together, we can then find new ways to navigate these obstacles and chart a new course towards a more fulfilling life.
(514) 889-8922 View (514) 889-8922
Photo of Solaleh Amini, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Montréal, QC
Solaleh Amini
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, CRPO, CCPA
Verified Verified
Montréal, QC H3S  (Online Only)
I am a compassionate therapist specializing in anxiety, depression, and life challenges. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space for healing. By integrating evidence-based approaches like CBT, I empower clients to overcome obstacles and achieve personal growth. As a recreational therapist, I blend leisure activities with therapeutic techniques, offering a unique path to healing. We explore passions, reduce stress, and boost overall well-being. Together, we embark on a transformative journey that nurtures the mind and soul, fostering lasting positive change.
I am a compassionate therapist specializing in anxiety, depression, and life challenges. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space for healing. By integrating evidence-based approaches like CBT, I empower clients to overcome obstacles and achieve personal growth. As a recreational therapist, I blend leisure activities with therapeutic techniques, offering a unique path to healing. We explore passions, reduce stress, and boost overall well-being. Together, we embark on a transformative journey that nurtures the mind and soul, fostering lasting positive change.
(438) 701-2385 View (438) 701-2385
Photo of Dr. Kimberly Carrière, Psychologist in Montréal, QC
Dr. Kimberly Carrière
Psychologist, PhD, OPQ
Verified Verified
Montréal, QC H4E  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed clinical psychologist, member of the Ordre des Psychologues du Québec (OPQ). My areas of expertise include treatments for trauma, psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES), anxiety, depression, stress management, relationship difficulties, gastrointestinal diseases (Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis) and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). My work is collaborative in nature. It is my goal to help you better understand who you are, who you want to be and how to overcome the challenges that are getting in your way.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist, member of the Ordre des Psychologues du Québec (OPQ). My areas of expertise include treatments for trauma, psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES), anxiety, depression, stress management, relationship difficulties, gastrointestinal diseases (Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis) and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). My work is collaborative in nature. It is my goal to help you better understand who you are, who you want to be and how to overcome the challenges that are getting in your way.
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Photo of Katherine E Gibb, Psychologist in Montréal, QC
Katherine E Gibb
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Montréal, QC H3H
As an accomplished psychologist, I have consistently helped my clients achieve meaningful progress in the areas that matter most to them, from quieting nagging worries to maximizing potential, and navigating relationships with ease. At its core, therapy is about discovery; it involves going on a journey into our interior to arrive at a deeper understanding of ourselves. Our combined efforts and collaboration will expedite this.
As an accomplished psychologist, I have consistently helped my clients achieve meaningful progress in the areas that matter most to them, from quieting nagging worries to maximizing potential, and navigating relationships with ease. At its core, therapy is about discovery; it involves going on a journey into our interior to arrive at a deeper understanding of ourselves. Our combined efforts and collaboration will expedite this.
(438) 230-1785 View (438) 230-1785
Photo of Hoonhei Cho, Counsellor in Montréal, QC
Hoonhei Cho
Counsellor, MA, CCC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Montréal, QC H2W  (Online Only)
I create collaborative work with clients facing diverse challenges. My clinical focus is working with individuals going through challenging life transition, relationship or family conflict, anxiety, depression, and grief. No Matter what has brought you therapy, your experience is valid. I believe that even life challenges and unique parts of you have a wisdom to be understood, and strength to be discovered.
I create collaborative work with clients facing diverse challenges. My clinical focus is working with individuals going through challenging life transition, relationship or family conflict, anxiety, depression, and grief. No Matter what has brought you therapy, your experience is valid. I believe that even life challenges and unique parts of you have a wisdom to be understood, and strength to be discovered.
(438) 801-8671 View (438) 801-8671
Photo of Tania Karine Lemoine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Montréal, QC
Tania Karine Lemoine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, MSSW, LCSW, CEDS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montréal, QC H3G  (Online Only)
Are you, or a loved one, suffering from disordered eating? Is your relationship with food and body image getting in the way of the life that you want? Are you feeling powerless, dicouraged or scared at the idea of breaking the vicious cycle that has been at the center of your life for too long? Are you feeling ambivalent about change, and would like a safe place to share your thoughts and emotions with an experienced therapist? You are not alone. Despite the challenging journey, full recovery is possible. Seeking professional help towards recovery and wellnes is well worth it.
Are you, or a loved one, suffering from disordered eating? Is your relationship with food and body image getting in the way of the life that you want? Are you feeling powerless, dicouraged or scared at the idea of breaking the vicious cycle that has been at the center of your life for too long? Are you feeling ambivalent about change, and would like a safe place to share your thoughts and emotions with an experienced therapist? You are not alone. Despite the challenging journey, full recovery is possible. Seeking professional help towards recovery and wellnes is well worth it.
(450) 600-6790 View (450) 600-6790

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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.