Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Madoc, ON

Photo of Elizabeth Ann Richardson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, CPMHN(C
Elizabeth Ann Richardson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, CPMHN(C
2 Endorsed
Madoc, ON K0K
My training includes, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Processing Theory, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior therapy.
Working as a Registered Nurse and practicing Psychotherapist, holding a Canadian Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing Certificate CPMHN (C), I have provided treatment to individuals experiencing mood and anxiety disorders, trauma disorders, psychotic disorders, alcohol and substance use disorders and personality disorders. I have had additional training in the area of chronic pain management and grief counselling. My work experience includes over 18 years of clinical practice in emergency and outpatient mental health departments, as well as military and correctional settings.
My training includes, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Processing Theory, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior therapy.
Working as a Registered Nurse and practicing Psychotherapist, holding a Canadian Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing Certificate CPMHN (C), I have provided treatment to individuals experiencing mood and anxiety disorders, trauma disorders, psychotic disorders, alcohol and substance use disorders and personality disorders. I have had additional training in the area of chronic pain management and grief counselling. My work experience includes over 18 years of clinical practice in emergency and outpatient mental health departments, as well as military and correctional settings.
(343) 342-1434 View (343) 342-1434
Photo of Elly Reda, Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, MACP
Elly Reda
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, MACP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I incorporate modalities such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy ( DBT), Person-Centered Therapy, Strengths-Based Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), and Solution-Focused Therapy.
Is anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, or overwhelming stress taking a toll on your daily life? Or maybe you’re navigating the challenges that come with neurodiversity, like ADHD, autism, or learning differences? It can be tough to manage these things alone, but the good news is that things can get better. Therapy is a place where you can find the support you need to tackle these challenges and start feeling more in control of your life. I’m here to help you find strategies that truly work for you. My goal is to create a warm and welcoming space where you can freely explore what’s going on beneath the surface.
I incorporate modalities such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy ( DBT), Person-Centered Therapy, Strengths-Based Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), and Solution-Focused Therapy.
Is anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, or overwhelming stress taking a toll on your daily life? Or maybe you’re navigating the challenges that come with neurodiversity, like ADHD, autism, or learning differences? It can be tough to manage these things alone, but the good news is that things can get better. Therapy is a place where you can find the support you need to tackle these challenges and start feeling more in control of your life. I’m here to help you find strategies that truly work for you. My goal is to create a warm and welcoming space where you can freely explore what’s going on beneath the surface.
(506) 308-3267 View (506) 308-3267
Photo of Alyssa Ashley, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
Alyssa Ashley
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or stuck in patterns that no longer feel aligned with who you want to be? You may be managing day-to-day responsibilities while feeling emotionally drained, triggered, or unsure how to move forward.
Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or stuck in patterns that no longer feel aligned with who you want to be? You may be managing day-to-day responsibilities while feeling emotionally drained, triggered, or unsure how to move forward.
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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Rhonda Kotchapaw, Registered Psychotherapist, DCP, MACP, BRE, RP
Rhonda Kotchapaw
Registered Psychotherapist, DCP, MACP, BRE, RP
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you ready to make meaningful changes in your life? I hold a Doctorate in Counselling and Psychotherapy and bring over 30 years of experience supporting individuals in improving their mental and emotional well-being. My own healing journey inspired this work. I specialize in trauma and abuse therapy, integrating EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Schema Therapy within a person-centered, attachment-based, and strengths-based approach. I work with individuals experiencing concerns such as PTSD, Complex PTSD, anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem.
Are you ready to make meaningful changes in your life? I hold a Doctorate in Counselling and Psychotherapy and bring over 30 years of experience supporting individuals in improving their mental and emotional well-being. My own healing journey inspired this work. I specialize in trauma and abuse therapy, integrating EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Schema Therapy within a person-centered, attachment-based, and strengths-based approach. I work with individuals experiencing concerns such as PTSD, Complex PTSD, anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem.
(343) 308-3405 View (343) 308-3405
Photo of Evan Coghlan - Coghlan Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP
Coghlan Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP
6 Endorsed
Havelock, ON K0L
It's heartbreaking to watch your child or teen struggle. As a parent or guardian, you know your child best, and can clearly see when they are hurting. Luckily, they have shared a little about their experience, but you still feel uncertain about their needs- powerless to do anything to help them. It just feels like things will never change. They have so much potential, and you would hate to see them miss it.
It's heartbreaking to watch your child or teen struggle. As a parent or guardian, you know your child best, and can clearly see when they are hurting. Luckily, they have shared a little about their experience, but you still feel uncertain about their needs- powerless to do anything to help them. It just feels like things will never change. They have so much potential, and you would hate to see them miss it.
(343) 304-6308 View (343) 304-6308
Photo of Brittany Tracey, Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP, BA Hon
Brittany Tracey
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP, BA Hon
3 Endorsed
Belleville, ON K8N
I also draw on ACT, DBT, and CBT to tailor therapy to each client.
Are you tired of feeling like your anger is damaging relationships or taking over important moments in your life? Do you hold things in until it builds up—and then it comes out more intensely than you intended? I specialize in working with adults experiencing anger, trauma, anxiety, and difficulties with emotional regulation. Many of the people I work with feel stuck in patterns that are hard to change, especially when emotions feel overwhelming or reactive in ways they don’t want. These responses are often connected to past experiences that continue to show up in the present.
I also draw on ACT, DBT, and CBT to tailor therapy to each client.
Are you tired of feeling like your anger is damaging relationships or taking over important moments in your life? Do you hold things in until it builds up—and then it comes out more intensely than you intended? I specialize in working with adults experiencing anger, trauma, anxiety, and difficulties with emotional regulation. Many of the people I work with feel stuck in patterns that are hard to change, especially when emotions feel overwhelming or reactive in ways they don’t want. These responses are often connected to past experiences that continue to show up in the present.
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Photo of Susan Briggs, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Susan Briggs
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I primarily use psychodynamic, CBT and DBT modalities, although I am systems oriented, which helps put your needs in context.
With 37 years of experience helping people of all ages in diverse situations, I can help with anxiety, depression, neurodivergence, life transitions, work/life stressors, relationship difficulties, medical/severe mental illness and system navigation. My offer is to help you 1) gain clarity about your situation, 2) provide a space where privacy is guaranteed, 3) identify and challenge the barriers that are blocking your pathway to peace/wellness, 4) offer options for finding solutions and strategies that work for you, and, 5) give you ongoing support while you navigate resources and explore changes. System advocacy included.
I primarily use psychodynamic, CBT and DBT modalities, although I am systems oriented, which helps put your needs in context.
With 37 years of experience helping people of all ages in diverse situations, I can help with anxiety, depression, neurodivergence, life transitions, work/life stressors, relationship difficulties, medical/severe mental illness and system navigation. My offer is to help you 1) gain clarity about your situation, 2) provide a space where privacy is guaranteed, 3) identify and challenge the barriers that are blocking your pathway to peace/wellness, 4) offer options for finding solutions and strategies that work for you, and, 5) give you ongoing support while you navigate resources and explore changes. System advocacy included.
(807) 770-8874 View (807) 770-8874
Photo of Kiera Alice McDonald, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
Kiera Alice McDonald
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
In a safe, empathic, and queer-affirming space to explore life's challenges, I combine my lived experience with a holistic and integrative approach rooted in DBT and ACT.
Now accepting new clients with evening availability! Life transitions are always a challenging time. Whether it comes to navigating new relationships, keeping up with work and school demands, or continuing to build a deeper sense of self-awareness, this period involves a LOT of emotional labour. Add into the mix the expectations that come with being a high-performance individual - whether in sports, academics, the arts, or elsewhere - and it can all start to feel like too much. You may feel overwhelmed and exhausted, stressing about the field in which you once excelled and felt most like yourself.
In a safe, empathic, and queer-affirming space to explore life's challenges, I combine my lived experience with a holistic and integrative approach rooted in DBT and ACT.
Now accepting new clients with evening availability! Life transitions are always a challenging time. Whether it comes to navigating new relationships, keeping up with work and school demands, or continuing to build a deeper sense of self-awareness, this period involves a LOT of emotional labour. Add into the mix the expectations that come with being a high-performance individual - whether in sports, academics, the arts, or elsewhere - and it can all start to feel like too much. You may feel overwhelmed and exhausted, stressing about the field in which you once excelled and felt most like yourself.
(613) 702-8156 View (613) 702-8156
Photo of Amanda Bolger - SoulScape Services - Anxiety/Depression/Trauma, Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MA, RP
SoulScape Services - Anxiety/Depression/Trauma
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MA, RP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you searching for someone you truly connect with—someone safe enough to share your struggles? Maybe you’ve looked for support but find it hard to meet your deeper self fully so change can happen. If you’re done overthinking and want real relief and lasting shifts inside, depth work might be your answer. Lasting change comes from knowing yourself deeply and addressing what’s beneath the surface.
Are you searching for someone you truly connect with—someone safe enough to share your struggles? Maybe you’ve looked for support but find it hard to meet your deeper self fully so change can happen. If you’re done overthinking and want real relief and lasting shifts inside, depth work might be your answer. Lasting change comes from knowing yourself deeply and addressing what’s beneath the surface.
(343) 307-0715 View (343) 307-0715
Photo of Sabrina Gendreau - Sabrina Gendreau, Addictions, Anxiety & Grief, Registered Social Service Worker, Psychotherapist, RSSW, CCAC, BA, CPGC
Sabrina Gendreau, Addictions, Anxiety & Grief
Registered Social Service Worker, Psychotherapist, RSSW, CCAC, BA, CPGC
1 Endorsed
Brighton, ON K0K
I am trained and experienced in Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and specialized addiction and problem gambling treatment.
It takes courage to have the insight that addiction, mental health or grief is managing you, not you being able to manage it. I recognize that you are the expert of your life and need some help in getting back on track. You hold all the information needed to help me understand what treatment we can use to develop the coping skills to help you move forward. My Newfoundland roots have provided me with authenticity and a sense of humour that clients report make for a comfortable and trustworthy experience. Let’s meet to see if I’m a good fit to help you meet your goals of wellness and self efficacy.
I am trained and experienced in Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and specialized addiction and problem gambling treatment.
It takes courage to have the insight that addiction, mental health or grief is managing you, not you being able to manage it. I recognize that you are the expert of your life and need some help in getting back on track. You hold all the information needed to help me understand what treatment we can use to develop the coping skills to help you move forward. My Newfoundland roots have provided me with authenticity and a sense of humour that clients report make for a comfortable and trustworthy experience. Let’s meet to see if I’m a good fit to help you meet your goals of wellness and self efficacy.
(343) 306-0941 View (343) 306-0941
Photo of Shannon Horrigan - Insync Counselling & Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist, RP RSSW
Insync Counselling & Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP RSSW
Online Only
My primary treatment approaches are humanistic and Client- centred using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and mindfulness.
Reaching out for support can feel overwhelming, especially when shame, stigma, or past negative experiences get in the way. Addiction and mental health challenges are often intertwined and complex, and you deserve a space where you feel understood rather than judged. I’m Shannon Horrigan, a Registered Psychotherapist and Social Services Worker with nearly 30 years of experience supporting individuals and families in navigating these challenges and moving toward meaningful change.
My primary treatment approaches are humanistic and Client- centred using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and mindfulness.
Reaching out for support can feel overwhelming, especially when shame, stigma, or past negative experiences get in the way. Addiction and mental health challenges are often intertwined and complex, and you deserve a space where you feel understood rather than judged. I’m Shannon Horrigan, a Registered Psychotherapist and Social Services Worker with nearly 30 years of experience supporting individuals and families in navigating these challenges and moving toward meaningful change.
(613) 900-0945 View (613) 900-0945
Photo of Sarah G. Horsford, Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP, CCC
Sarah G. Horsford
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP, CCC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I view counselling as a courageous act and as an opportunity for personal growth. I believe those seeking counselling are the experts of their own lives and I act as a neutral third party without judgment to be a sounding board/cheerleader. Together we put the puzzle pieces together to make sense of questions and move forward. My practice is guided by client-centred therapy and my approach uses a variety of modalities including behavioural and cognitive-behavioural therapies as well as other therapies for more of an eclectic stance.
I view counselling as a courageous act and as an opportunity for personal growth. I believe those seeking counselling are the experts of their own lives and I act as a neutral third party without judgment to be a sounding board/cheerleader. Together we put the puzzle pieces together to make sense of questions and move forward. My practice is guided by client-centred therapy and my approach uses a variety of modalities including behavioural and cognitive-behavioural therapies as well as other therapies for more of an eclectic stance.
(613) 703-3368 View (613) 703-3368
Photo of Nicole Armitage- Jarvis, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Nicole Armitage- Jarvis
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Napanee, ON K7R
What’s on your mind? Are you overwhelmed, feeling down, or irritated? Do you feel like you have been getting stuck in these emotions? You’re not alone, let's talk about it. I provide a safe space to explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. I strive to help individuals achieve positive change and meet their goals through a collaborative and person-centered approach. Together we can explore strategies to help you navigate and cope with different emotions. I have my Masters of Arts in Counselling Psychology and am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario
What’s on your mind? Are you overwhelmed, feeling down, or irritated? Do you feel like you have been getting stuck in these emotions? You’re not alone, let's talk about it. I provide a safe space to explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. I strive to help individuals achieve positive change and meet their goals through a collaborative and person-centered approach. Together we can explore strategies to help you navigate and cope with different emotions. I have my Masters of Arts in Counselling Psychology and am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario
(343) 353-1643 View (343) 353-1643
Photo of Jennifer McKelvie - Flourish Therapy & Wellness, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Flourish Therapy & Wellness
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Campbellford, ON K0L
I use strategies from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectic Behavior Therapy ( DBT), Internal Family Systems Model (IFS), Solution-Focused Therapy (BSFT) & and Eye-Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR).
Whether it's you, or someone close to you, most of us have struggled through difficult times, had bouts of low mood, and experienced loss or trauma in our life.  In this busy fast-paced world, it's not uncommon to put our needs and emotional health aside; this works for a while, until it doesn't! Using strategies from various models of therapy, I work from an inclusive, trauma-informed, strengths-based approach to assist individuals in making effective life change, learning new skills, and healing from past painful life experiences including significant  trauma.
I use strategies from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectic Behavior Therapy ( DBT), Internal Family Systems Model (IFS), Solution-Focused Therapy (BSFT) & and Eye-Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR).
Whether it's you, or someone close to you, most of us have struggled through difficult times, had bouts of low mood, and experienced loss or trauma in our life.  In this busy fast-paced world, it's not uncommon to put our needs and emotional health aside; this works for a while, until it doesn't! Using strategies from various models of therapy, I work from an inclusive, trauma-informed, strengths-based approach to assist individuals in making effective life change, learning new skills, and healing from past painful life experiences including significant  trauma.
(249) 202-2207 View (249) 202-2207
Photo of Adam Terpstra - Prince Edward County Counselling and Psychotherapy, Registered Social Worker, RSW, RP, OCT, CCC
Prince Edward County Counselling and Psychotherapy
Registered Social Worker, RSW, RP, OCT, CCC
Picton, ON K0K
Clinicians accepting new patients: As a community-minded organization, we sincerely believe that emotional healing and personal growth are within your reach. Through a trauma-informed, anti-oppressive lens, we offer individual therapy for issues related to anxiety and depression, gender and sexuality, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), self-esteem / self-confidence, and sexual trauma. If you live in Prince Edward County / Quinte region, identify within the LGBTQQ2S+ community, or simply seek positive change, get in touch with us today by visiting our website.
Clinicians accepting new patients: As a community-minded organization, we sincerely believe that emotional healing and personal growth are within your reach. Through a trauma-informed, anti-oppressive lens, we offer individual therapy for issues related to anxiety and depression, gender and sexuality, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), self-esteem / self-confidence, and sexual trauma. If you live in Prince Edward County / Quinte region, identify within the LGBTQQ2S+ community, or simply seek positive change, get in touch with us today by visiting our website.
(343) 304-6214 View (343) 304-6214
Photo of Brittany Bronson, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, BA
Brittany Bronson
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, BA
2 Endorsed
Tweed, ON K0K
Hi, I’m Brittany, owner and clinician at Glad You're Here Psychotherapy! Taking the first step toward therapy can take courage, so I’m glad you’re here! I believe therapy works best when there’s a real connection: one where we can talk honestly, laugh when it fits, and face your hard moments together! I offer a safe space to explore and work through your struggles (including anxiety, depression, life transitions, everyday stress, and others). I welcome clients of all genders and backgrounds, and especially thrive when working with women and girls.
Hi, I’m Brittany, owner and clinician at Glad You're Here Psychotherapy! Taking the first step toward therapy can take courage, so I’m glad you’re here! I believe therapy works best when there’s a real connection: one where we can talk honestly, laugh when it fits, and face your hard moments together! I offer a safe space to explore and work through your struggles (including anxiety, depression, life transitions, everyday stress, and others). I welcome clients of all genders and backgrounds, and especially thrive when working with women and girls.
(343) 313-1552 View (343) 313-1552
Photo of Diana Mitchell, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, SEP
Diana Mitchell
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, SEP
Serves Area
I draw from a range of therapeutic modalities including Somatic Experiencing, Emotion Focused Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy to suit individual needs.
Accepting New Clients. I bring 15+ years experience to my work and primarily see clients who are curious about the mind-body relationship and who want to find deeper healing from trauma, mood disorders and emotional pain. ​I'm passionate about supporting people to connect with the wisdom of their body to return to a felt sense of safety and connection to self. I believe it takes courage to begin this journey, and will walk alongside you as you move towards healing and wholeness with the tools and strategies you need. I specialize in trauma work, particularly with first responders, military professionals and their families.
I draw from a range of therapeutic modalities including Somatic Experiencing, Emotion Focused Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy to suit individual needs.
Accepting New Clients. I bring 15+ years experience to my work and primarily see clients who are curious about the mind-body relationship and who want to find deeper healing from trauma, mood disorders and emotional pain. ​I'm passionate about supporting people to connect with the wisdom of their body to return to a felt sense of safety and connection to self. I believe it takes courage to begin this journey, and will walk alongside you as you move towards healing and wholeness with the tools and strategies you need. I specialize in trauma work, particularly with first responders, military professionals and their families.
(613) 777-2250 View (613) 777-2250
Photo of Nicole Peters, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Nicole Peters
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you struggle with feeling overwhelmed or that stress is getting in the way of enjoying your life? Is there a heaviness you feel that make regular activities seem difficult or challenging? Are there past experiences that show up in your present and make it difficult to function, like you don't feel quite like yourself or enjoy things you used to?
Do you struggle with feeling overwhelmed or that stress is getting in the way of enjoying your life? Is there a heaviness you feel that make regular activities seem difficult or challenging? Are there past experiences that show up in your present and make it difficult to function, like you don't feel quite like yourself or enjoy things you used to?
(343) 633-1892 View (343) 633-1892
Photo of Stephanie Percival - Live Well Counselling-Stephanie Percival, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist, BA(Hon), MA, RP
Live Well Counselling-Stephanie Percival, MA, RP
Registered Psychotherapist, BA(Hon), MA, RP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have provided counselling for over 35 years and have supported individuals who have experienced various forms of loss, abuse, violence, victimization, and trauma. I practice from a holistic mind-body therapeutic approach, which integrates both physical & evidenced-based clinical approaches to wellness. I support individuals with calm ease to help them move beyond traumatic and emotionally painful life events. It all begins from a place of emotional safety, compassion, non-judgement, understanding, validation, & respect. Therapy goals are determined collaboratively to find solutions & outcomes that are unique to each person.
I have provided counselling for over 35 years and have supported individuals who have experienced various forms of loss, abuse, violence, victimization, and trauma. I practice from a holistic mind-body therapeutic approach, which integrates both physical & evidenced-based clinical approaches to wellness. I support individuals with calm ease to help them move beyond traumatic and emotionally painful life events. It all begins from a place of emotional safety, compassion, non-judgement, understanding, validation, & respect. Therapy goals are determined collaboratively to find solutions & outcomes that are unique to each person.
(289) 691-0499 View (289) 691-0499
Photo of Angelique Vasilaros - Trauma Resolution Centre , Registered Social Worker
Trauma Resolution Centre
Registered Social Worker
Serves Area
Our skilled staff of mental health professionals are trained to work with adults facing a wide array of issues including: the unique challenges faced by First Responders, Operational Stress Injuries, Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (childhood trauma), PTSD, recent and/or repeated exposure to traumatic events, domestic violence, grief/loss, medical trauma, sexual abuse, anxiety/mood disorders, emotional regulation challenges, individuals diagnosed with personality disorders as well as attachment-related difficulties. We also offer couples therapy to address a range of concerns, including communication issues, intimacy challenges, and issues related to infidelity, etc.
Our skilled staff of mental health professionals are trained to work with adults facing a wide array of issues including: the unique challenges faced by First Responders, Operational Stress Injuries, Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (childhood trauma), PTSD, recent and/or repeated exposure to traumatic events, domestic violence, grief/loss, medical trauma, sexual abuse, anxiety/mood disorders, emotional regulation challenges, individuals diagnosed with personality disorders as well as attachment-related difficulties. We also offer couples therapy to address a range of concerns, including communication issues, intimacy challenges, and issues related to infidelity, etc.
(249) 209-0230 View (249) 209-0230
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.