Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Port Perry, ON

Photo of Debbie G Knight - Mind Health Connect, Registered Social Worker, RSW
Mind Health Connect
Registered Social Worker, RSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a registered social worker I provide a trauma-informed mixture of CBT, DBT modalities supported by art therapy, mindfulness and Internal Family Systems approach to provide the self leadership that will be transformative.
Welcoming New Clients- Feeling stuck in fear, is Fight Flight or Freeze consuming you. Overwhelmed by life challenges, toxic relationship, child, parenting, family conflict or financial issues or feeling dissatisfied with life. As a retired police officer I understand the what emergency responders live through. I am trauma-informed practice that supports awareness between the connection of mind and body. I emphasize the importance of emotions and how this understanding can give us the power to move forward. What ever the issue together we can find the tools that provide the best solution for you.
As a registered social worker I provide a trauma-informed mixture of CBT, DBT modalities supported by art therapy, mindfulness and Internal Family Systems approach to provide the self leadership that will be transformative.
Welcoming New Clients- Feeling stuck in fear, is Fight Flight or Freeze consuming you. Overwhelmed by life challenges, toxic relationship, child, parenting, family conflict or financial issues or feeling dissatisfied with life. As a retired police officer I understand the what emergency responders live through. I am trauma-informed practice that supports awareness between the connection of mind and body. I emphasize the importance of emotions and how this understanding can give us the power to move forward. What ever the issue together we can find the tools that provide the best solution for you.
(289) 276-1324 View (289) 276-1324
Photo of Jocelyn Hunt, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Jocelyn Hunt
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Port Perry, ON L9L
I often pull from Solution-Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy.
Welcoming New Clients - - It's common to feel anxious about your future, what could or "should" happen, with all those never-ending thoughts. Maybe you feel deep sadness, intense anger, you're grieving change, and/or thinking that life isn't quite working out the way you hoped. How about your relationship with yourself and others? Perhaps you're wondering if there's an opportunity to build more confidence and connection. I provide an authentic, non-judgmental space to explore what's causing you stress. Together, we will work through your concerns and create practical solutions to enhance your life.
I often pull from Solution-Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy.
Welcoming New Clients - - It's common to feel anxious about your future, what could or "should" happen, with all those never-ending thoughts. Maybe you feel deep sadness, intense anger, you're grieving change, and/or thinking that life isn't quite working out the way you hoped. How about your relationship with yourself and others? Perhaps you're wondering if there's an opportunity to build more confidence and connection. I provide an authentic, non-judgmental space to explore what's causing you stress. Together, we will work through your concerns and create practical solutions to enhance your life.
(289) 216-9905 View (289) 216-9905
Photo of Kristin Garrity - HealthSpace collective, Registered Psychotherapist, RP
HealthSpace collective
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
Port Perry, ON L9L
Through CBT and DBT informed practices skills and strategies can be created to support wellness in ones life and relationships.
As a therapist I approach people with empathy, kindness and genuine concern. I offer patient centered care while establishing a therapeutic rapport. I believe in setting small attainable goals and building off of existing strengths to gain motivation.
Through CBT and DBT informed practices skills and strategies can be created to support wellness in ones life and relationships.
As a therapist I approach people with empathy, kindness and genuine concern. I offer patient centered care while establishing a therapeutic rapport. I believe in setting small attainable goals and building off of existing strengths to gain motivation.
(365) 305-0233 View (365) 305-0233
Photo of Nikki Mulvihill, Registered Social Worker, RSW
Nikki Mulvihill
Registered Social Worker, RSW
Verified Verified
Port Perry, ON L9L
Utilizing an integrative approach, I practice several therapeutic styles (ex: CBT, DBT, narrative therapy) to help individuals and families reach their goals.
At Island Waters Counselling Services, I offer an individualized approach for each person. I start by taking the time necessary to understand where you are now and any challenges you may face. We emphasize your existing strengths together and then create a plan to move forward in your journey and celebrate your successes along the way. I strongly believe that mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual health are interconnected and important to consider to live a balanced life. Island Waters is an inclusive space.
Utilizing an integrative approach, I practice several therapeutic styles (ex: CBT, DBT, narrative therapy) to help individuals and families reach their goals.
At Island Waters Counselling Services, I offer an individualized approach for each person. I start by taking the time necessary to understand where you are now and any challenges you may face. We emphasize your existing strengths together and then create a plan to move forward in your journey and celebrate your successes along the way. I strongly believe that mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual health are interconnected and important to consider to live a balanced life. Island Waters is an inclusive space.
(365) 297-0736 View (365) 297-0736
Photo of Alyson Dupuis - Journey Of Hope Counselling & Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Journey Of Hope Counselling & Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
We often work from a Dialectical Behaviour Therapy lens focusing on: how to live in the present moment, tolerate difficult emotions, shift unhelpful feelings and communicate your needs effectively.
At Journey of Hope Counselling & Psychotherapy, we are here to walk alongside you in life’s most challenging moments. We understand how overwhelming emotions can feel and how hard it can be to navigate grief, loss, anxiety, depression, parenting struggles, or addiction. In our warm and welcoming space, we focus on building a genuine, authentic connection that helps you feel supported and understood.
We often work from a Dialectical Behaviour Therapy lens focusing on: how to live in the present moment, tolerate difficult emotions, shift unhelpful feelings and communicate your needs effectively.
At Journey of Hope Counselling & Psychotherapy, we are here to walk alongside you in life’s most challenging moments. We understand how overwhelming emotions can feel and how hard it can be to navigate grief, loss, anxiety, depression, parenting struggles, or addiction. In our warm and welcoming space, we focus on building a genuine, authentic connection that helps you feel supported and understood.
(365) 398-0579 View (365) 398-0579
Photo of Megan Cuglietta, Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Megan Cuglietta
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have extensive training and experience with CBT, DBT, EFT, Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy, and EMDR therapy.
Accepting NEW Clients - Are anxiety and stress holding you back from fully enjoying life? Whether it’s the overwhelming feeling of being paralyzed by certain problems or the subtle discomfort of emotions that are hard to define, navigating these feelings on your own can be confusing and frightening. I am deeply committed to supporting teens and adults individuals through life's challenges. Whether it’s managing anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, or navigating life transitions, I am here to help you regain clarity and move forward with confidence.
I have extensive training and experience with CBT, DBT, EFT, Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy, and EMDR therapy.
Accepting NEW Clients - Are anxiety and stress holding you back from fully enjoying life? Whether it’s the overwhelming feeling of being paralyzed by certain problems or the subtle discomfort of emotions that are hard to define, navigating these feelings on your own can be confusing and frightening. I am deeply committed to supporting teens and adults individuals through life's challenges. Whether it’s managing anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, or navigating life transitions, I am here to help you regain clarity and move forward with confidence.
(365) 513-8021 View (365) 513-8021
Photo of Daniel Wayow, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
Daniel Wayow
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Based on your needs, goals, and experiences, I draw from a variety of therapeutic frameworks, including CBT, Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy, DBT, Narrative Therapy, SFT, and EFT.
Accepting NEW Clients - Do you struggle with unwanted, intrusive thoughts about contamination, sexual themes, harm, or relationships? Do you engage in repetitive behaviours only for the anxiety to return? I am passionate about working with individuals struggling with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). The remaining piece of my practice focuses on managing anxiety, low mood, couples therapy, personality disorders, and addiction.
Based on your needs, goals, and experiences, I draw from a variety of therapeutic frameworks, including CBT, Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy, DBT, Narrative Therapy, SFT, and EFT.
Accepting NEW Clients - Do you struggle with unwanted, intrusive thoughts about contamination, sexual themes, harm, or relationships? Do you engage in repetitive behaviours only for the anxiety to return? I am passionate about working with individuals struggling with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). The remaining piece of my practice focuses on managing anxiety, low mood, couples therapy, personality disorders, and addiction.
(365) 650-0155 View (365) 650-0155
Photo of Sarah Marquette, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MACP, RECE, CRPO, CCPA
Sarah Marquette
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MACP, RECE, CRPO, CCPA
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Port Perry, ON L9L
I specialize in helping individuals, couples, and families navigate anxiety, trauma, and relationship challenges using tailored approaches like Dialectical Behavioural Therapy ( DBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).
My ideal client is someone navigating anxiety, trauma, or relationship struggles, seeking clarity and emotional growth. You may feel stuck in unhelpful patterns, yearning for a safe, non-judgmental space to explore your emotions and experiences. Your goal is to build resilience, deepen connections, and create meaningful change. You value self-awareness and are ready to invest in your personal growth, driven by a desire for healthier relationships, inner peace, and a more fulfilling life. Together, we uncover tools and insights to help you thrive authentically.
I specialize in helping individuals, couples, and families navigate anxiety, trauma, and relationship challenges using tailored approaches like Dialectical Behavioural Therapy ( DBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).
My ideal client is someone navigating anxiety, trauma, or relationship struggles, seeking clarity and emotional growth. You may feel stuck in unhelpful patterns, yearning for a safe, non-judgmental space to explore your emotions and experiences. Your goal is to build resilience, deepen connections, and create meaningful change. You value self-awareness and are ready to invest in your personal growth, driven by a desire for healthier relationships, inner peace, and a more fulfilling life. Together, we uncover tools and insights to help you thrive authentically.
(365) 601-0445 View (365) 601-0445
Photo of Terri Bathe - Red Brick Wellness, Registered Psychotherapist
Red Brick Wellness
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
We offer client-centred therapy that incorporates aspects of CBT, DBT, mindfulness, narrative therapy, and inner child healing of generational trauma.
Are you struggling with feelings of disconnection, overwhelm, and self-judgement? Do you put yourself last, and struggle with burnout because of it? At Red Brick Wellness, we seek to support clients who are striving to become healthier, happier versions of themselves. Our team specializes in individuals and couples who have experienced trauma, first responder support, perinatal and parenting support, as well as anxiety, depression and building self esteem. At Red Brick Wellness, we believe that you can begin building a life founded in mental wellness today.
We offer client-centred therapy that incorporates aspects of CBT, DBT, mindfulness, narrative therapy, and inner child healing of generational trauma.
Are you struggling with feelings of disconnection, overwhelm, and self-judgement? Do you put yourself last, and struggle with burnout because of it? At Red Brick Wellness, we seek to support clients who are striving to become healthier, happier versions of themselves. Our team specializes in individuals and couples who have experienced trauma, first responder support, perinatal and parenting support, as well as anxiety, depression and building self esteem. At Red Brick Wellness, we believe that you can begin building a life founded in mental wellness today.
(289) 212-8973 View (289) 212-8973
Photo of Monica Verbosky, Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP, CCC
Monica Verbosky
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I endeavor to calibrate to the pace and approach to best meet my client's therapeutic needs within my strongest competencies such as IFS informed EMDR and DBT.
About You (First;): You’re over 21 yrs old. You want help reclaiming your calm and authentically engaging in your life. You need a comfortable and secure space within which you can be heard and heal. You want a therapist with a genuine interest in you; Someone who provides the kind of non-judgmental care which drove you to consider therapy in the first place. You want a therapist who sees you as an individual and intuitively endeavors to both challenge you and collaborate with you on your quest to rediscover your self worth. You might be considering a different therapy, one tailored for trauma such as EMDR.
I endeavor to calibrate to the pace and approach to best meet my client's therapeutic needs within my strongest competencies such as IFS informed EMDR and DBT.
About You (First;): You’re over 21 yrs old. You want help reclaiming your calm and authentically engaging in your life. You need a comfortable and secure space within which you can be heard and heal. You want a therapist with a genuine interest in you; Someone who provides the kind of non-judgmental care which drove you to consider therapy in the first place. You want a therapist who sees you as an individual and intuitively endeavors to both challenge you and collaborate with you on your quest to rediscover your self worth. You might be considering a different therapy, one tailored for trauma such as EMDR.
(249) 488-2751 View (249) 488-2751
Photo of Janna Wilks, Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP
Janna Wilks
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you looking for a safe space to share your story and reflect on what you want for your future? Do you wish for freedom from fear, and increasing joy in your life? I have needed these very things at different times in my own life, and the courage it takes to reach out has been worth it every time. With specialized training in CBT for anxiety I work from an anti-oppressive framework, using a strengths-based, individually tailored approach to each client’s experience and interest. I love working with individuals, families and youth, and I am passionate about supporting people in their desire to grow, to heal and to create change.
Are you looking for a safe space to share your story and reflect on what you want for your future? Do you wish for freedom from fear, and increasing joy in your life? I have needed these very things at different times in my own life, and the courage it takes to reach out has been worth it every time. With specialized training in CBT for anxiety I work from an anti-oppressive framework, using a strengths-based, individually tailored approach to each client’s experience and interest. I love working with individuals, families and youth, and I am passionate about supporting people in their desire to grow, to heal and to create change.
(289) 206-3345 View (289) 206-3345
Photo of Shannon Mossip - New Beginnings Ont - Shannon Mossip Psychology, Psychologist
New Beginnings Ont - Shannon Mossip Psychology
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Port Perry, ON L9L
At New Beginnings, clients have the opportunity to explore their strengths and limitations in a safe, confidential, and accepting environment. We provide assessment, intervention, and treatment services to children, adolescents, and adults who exhibit symptoms of inattention, concentration difficulty, memory impairment, hyperactivity, poor academic performance, and learning disabilities. We offer group therapy programs for children diagnosed with Autism, Oppositional Defiant Disorder and Anxiety. In addition, we offer therapy and assessments through WSIB.
At New Beginnings, clients have the opportunity to explore their strengths and limitations in a safe, confidential, and accepting environment. We provide assessment, intervention, and treatment services to children, adolescents, and adults who exhibit symptoms of inattention, concentration difficulty, memory impairment, hyperactivity, poor academic performance, and learning disabilities. We offer group therapy programs for children diagnosed with Autism, Oppositional Defiant Disorder and Anxiety. In addition, we offer therapy and assessments through WSIB.
(844) 332-2404 View (844) 332-2404
Photo of Amanda Harper, Registered Psychotherapist, MSW, RSW, RP
Amanda Harper
Registered Psychotherapist, MSW, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am passionate about helping others to begin to find balance in their lives. I truly believe that reaching out for help takes a great deal of courage. I am committed to providing a safe, non-judgmental and supportive virtual counselling environment where you can begin to explore the emotions, thoughts and behaviours that may be getting in the way of you living your best life. Whether it be mental health, trauma, substance use, impulsive behaviours, emotion dysregulation, grief/loss or relationship challenges, I will be there to work collaboratively with you to fulfill your personal therapy goals.
I am passionate about helping others to begin to find balance in their lives. I truly believe that reaching out for help takes a great deal of courage. I am committed to providing a safe, non-judgmental and supportive virtual counselling environment where you can begin to explore the emotions, thoughts and behaviours that may be getting in the way of you living your best life. Whether it be mental health, trauma, substance use, impulsive behaviours, emotion dysregulation, grief/loss or relationship challenges, I will be there to work collaboratively with you to fulfill your personal therapy goals.
(289) 312-1707 View (289) 312-1707
Photo of Parnian Pajouhandeh, Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Parnian Pajouhandeh
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Port Perry, ON L9L
At North Durham Professional Counsellors, we provide psychological assessment and treatment services to adults, children and adolescents, couples and families in individual therapy, relationship therapy, and/or family therapy. We can help with a number of mental health issues such as depression and/or anxiety, life transitions such as separation divorce or loss/bereavement, and relationship issues. We also offer rehabilitation assessment and treatment for individuals who have been involved in a motor vehicle accident or have suffered a work-related injury in order to assist with coping more effectively with such traumatic events.
At North Durham Professional Counsellors, we provide psychological assessment and treatment services to adults, children and adolescents, couples and families in individual therapy, relationship therapy, and/or family therapy. We can help with a number of mental health issues such as depression and/or anxiety, life transitions such as separation divorce or loss/bereavement, and relationship issues. We also offer rehabilitation assessment and treatment for individuals who have been involved in a motor vehicle accident or have suffered a work-related injury in order to assist with coping more effectively with such traumatic events.
(844) 332-1550 View (844) 332-1550
Photo of Shelly Munro - Thrive Therapy Services - Shelly Munro, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MN, NP, BScN, CPMHN
Thrive Therapy Services - Shelly Munro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MN, NP, BScN, CPMHN
Verified Verified
Port Perry, ON L9L
I am a Nurse Practitioner & Psychotherapist with over 23 years of experience working in the area of Mental Health & Addictions. This extensive experience allows me to assess, diagnosis & prescribe medications for a variety of mental health conditions. In this dual role I am able to offer my clients the convenient option of combining therapy and psychiatric care! I am passionate about empowering clients to create a life that is meaningful & with purpose by developing tools to manage their thoughts and emotions as well as explore the barriers that may be keeping them from reaching their goals.
I am a Nurse Practitioner & Psychotherapist with over 23 years of experience working in the area of Mental Health & Addictions. This extensive experience allows me to assess, diagnosis & prescribe medications for a variety of mental health conditions. In this dual role I am able to offer my clients the convenient option of combining therapy and psychiatric care! I am passionate about empowering clients to create a life that is meaningful & with purpose by developing tools to manage their thoughts and emotions as well as explore the barriers that may be keeping them from reaching their goals.
(289) 302-5970 View (289) 302-5970
Photo of Sofia Dawoodjee Rn Psychotherapist, RN, MEd
Sofia Dawoodjee Rn Psychotherapist
RN, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Port Perry, ON L9L
Life can be stressful, overwhelming and very unpredictable. Every day can seem like a struggle and feel very lonely, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Share your thoughts and feelings in a safe space without judgment, and with someone who can understand the struggles you’re experiencing. Self-discovery, learning ways to cope, and gaining alternative perspectives can be very beneficial to your growth and understanding as an individual. Make the first step to improve your health and well-being.
Life can be stressful, overwhelming and very unpredictable. Every day can seem like a struggle and feel very lonely, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Share your thoughts and feelings in a safe space without judgment, and with someone who can understand the struggles you’re experiencing. Self-discovery, learning ways to cope, and gaining alternative perspectives can be very beneficial to your growth and understanding as an individual. Make the first step to improve your health and well-being.
(289) 276-8028 View (289) 276-8028
Photo of Helen Daymond, Psychologist
Helen Daymond
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Port Perry, ON L9L
ACCESS Psychology offers a holistic approach to well-being with a focus on developing healthy minds, healthy bodies and healthy relationships. Helen and her experienced team of professional therapists work together to assist kids, teens & their families cope with life’s many obstacles and meet their full potential! We can help with: speech-language, learning difficulties, psycho-educational & social-emotional assessments, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, behaviour issues, adjustment to separation/divorce, bullying, social skills, body image image/eating disorders, trauma, OCD, ADHD, ASD (autism spectrum disorder) and more
ACCESS Psychology offers a holistic approach to well-being with a focus on developing healthy minds, healthy bodies and healthy relationships. Helen and her experienced team of professional therapists work together to assist kids, teens & their families cope with life’s many obstacles and meet their full potential! We can help with: speech-language, learning difficulties, psycho-educational & social-emotional assessments, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, behaviour issues, adjustment to separation/divorce, bullying, social skills, body image image/eating disorders, trauma, OCD, ADHD, ASD (autism spectrum disorder) and more
(289) 206-5367 View (289) 206-5367
Photo of Karen McKenna-Quayle, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, BEd, DSW
Karen McKenna-Quayle
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, BEd, DSW
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you struggle with ADHD, depression or anxiety that impacts your ability to function? Do you feel overwhelmed and don't know where to start? If you are considering making changes to create a life that inspires you, I am here to help. I provide evidence-based treatment to reduce anxiety and depression, build executive function skills, increase self-confidence, and heal past trauma. I can also connect you with programs and resources, including the Disability Tax Credit, provincial, and federal grants.
Do you struggle with ADHD, depression or anxiety that impacts your ability to function? Do you feel overwhelmed and don't know where to start? If you are considering making changes to create a life that inspires you, I am here to help. I provide evidence-based treatment to reduce anxiety and depression, build executive function skills, increase self-confidence, and heal past trauma. I can also connect you with programs and resources, including the Disability Tax Credit, provincial, and federal grants.
(289) 210-8729 View (289) 210-8729
Photo of Randi Goyan, Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MACP
Randi Goyan
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MACP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting NEW Clients - Do you struggle with unwanted, intrusive thoughts about contamination, sexual themes, harm, or relationships? Do you engage in repetitive behaviours only for the anxiety to return? I am passionate about working with individuals struggling with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). The remaining piece of my practice focuses on anxiety disorders (generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, phobias, panic disorder, and agoraphobia), trauma, substance use, and ADHD.
Accepting NEW Clients - Do you struggle with unwanted, intrusive thoughts about contamination, sexual themes, harm, or relationships? Do you engage in repetitive behaviours only for the anxiety to return? I am passionate about working with individuals struggling with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). The remaining piece of my practice focuses on anxiety disorders (generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, phobias, panic disorder, and agoraphobia), trauma, substance use, and ADHD.
(807) 790-2910 View (807) 790-2910
Photo of Beverley David, Psychologist, PhD, ClinPsy, DClinPs, MSc
Beverley David
Psychologist, PhD, ClinPsy, DClinPs, MSc
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I believe a small change in just one person doesn’t only change them, it can change relationships, family, community and future generations. Together we will determine goals, as well as identifying what achieving these goals might look like. I will strive to meet your treatment needs in the most effective and efficient way possible. My first priority when introduced to a potential new client or family is to get to know you, and to discuss your hopes in terms of working with me.
I believe a small change in just one person doesn’t only change them, it can change relationships, family, community and future generations. Together we will determine goals, as well as identifying what achieving these goals might look like. I will strive to meet your treatment needs in the most effective and efficient way possible. My first priority when introduced to a potential new client or family is to get to know you, and to discuss your hopes in terms of working with me.
(844) 348-0289 View (844) 348-0289
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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.