Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Schomberg, ON

Photo of Gabriela Frigerio, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Gabriela Frigerio
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Online Only
I integrate Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy (DDP), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy ( DBT), and mindfulness-based strategies, tailoring treatment to each client's unique needs, strengths, and goals.
Welcome! I am a Registered Social Worker and Psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience supporting children, adolescents, and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, and life transitions. I also work extensively with newcomers to Canada, and refugee claimants, helping them navigate the emotional challenges of migration and resettlement. I provide a warm, safe, and culturally sensitive space where clients feel heard, supported, and empowered to heal, build resilience, and improve their emotional well-being.
I integrate Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy (DDP), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy ( DBT), and mindfulness-based strategies, tailoring treatment to each client's unique needs, strengths, and goals.
Welcome! I am a Registered Social Worker and Psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience supporting children, adolescents, and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, and life transitions. I also work extensively with newcomers to Canada, and refugee claimants, helping them navigate the emotional challenges of migration and resettlement. I provide a warm, safe, and culturally sensitive space where clients feel heard, supported, and empowered to heal, build resilience, and improve their emotional well-being.
(289) 985-0674 View (289) 985-0674
Photo of Shelby Doherty-Sirkovich, Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, HBSc
Shelby Doherty-Sirkovich
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, HBSc
2 Endorsed
Online Only
You're navigating divorce, betrayal trauma, or challenging relationships with others in your life that consistently drain you. Maybe you're contemplating separation but unsure. Maybe family, friend or work dynamics exhaust you and you feel stuck. You tend to prioritize others above yourself, struggle with boundaries, and keep ending up in the same pattern. The anxiety, depression, or stress is taking a toll. You're functioning but exhausted and burnt out. You want to understand why these dynamics repeat, develop boundaries that work, and make decisions based on your needs—not what keeps peace or meets others' expectations.
You're navigating divorce, betrayal trauma, or challenging relationships with others in your life that consistently drain you. Maybe you're contemplating separation but unsure. Maybe family, friend or work dynamics exhaust you and you feel stuck. You tend to prioritize others above yourself, struggle with boundaries, and keep ending up in the same pattern. The anxiety, depression, or stress is taking a toll. You're functioning but exhausted and burnt out. You want to understand why these dynamics repeat, develop boundaries that work, and make decisions based on your needs—not what keeps peace or meets others' expectations.
(365) 651-9608 View (365) 651-9608
Photo of Christine Scovell, Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Christine Scovell
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Serves Area
Drawing from a trauma-informed, narrative approach, integrating Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Play Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Mindfulness, I gently guide and support children and adults in exploring their emotions and experiences, reframing unhelpful patterns, and building empowering new narratives.
I am deeply committed to supporting individuals on their path toward recovery and emotional well-being. I support clients navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, and life transitions, including experiences of grief and loss. With a compassionate and collaborative approach, I help clients find clarity, strengthen resilience, and reconnect with a sense of hope and inner confidence
Drawing from a trauma-informed, narrative approach, integrating Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Play Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Mindfulness, I gently guide and support children and adults in exploring their emotions and experiences, reframing unhelpful patterns, and building empowering new narratives.
I am deeply committed to supporting individuals on their path toward recovery and emotional well-being. I support clients navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, and life transitions, including experiences of grief and loss. With a compassionate and collaborative approach, I help clients find clarity, strengthen resilience, and reconnect with a sense of hope and inner confidence
(888) 340-4325 View (888) 340-4325
Photo of Sheena Chater, Registered Social Worker, BSW, RSW, CYW
Sheena Chater
Registered Social Worker, BSW, RSW, CYW
Serves Area
I utilize treatments such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and a Trauma Informed practice.
Welcome! I come with over 17 years experience working with children, youth and their families with various needs and struggles. This experience has been with individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, avoidance, emotional difficulties, and current life challenges. I also have expertise working with children who may be experiencing behavioural disturbances, anger management, various diagnoses, including ADHD and communication within the family. I truly appreciate the time that each client gives to share their story and the openness that they present.
I utilize treatments such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and a Trauma Informed practice.
Welcome! I come with over 17 years experience working with children, youth and their families with various needs and struggles. This experience has been with individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, avoidance, emotional difficulties, and current life challenges. I also have expertise working with children who may be experiencing behavioural disturbances, anger management, various diagnoses, including ADHD and communication within the family. I truly appreciate the time that each client gives to share their story and the openness that they present.
(888) 340-4325 View (888) 340-4325
Photo of Amelia Perri - Therapy Heals Psychotherapy & Counselling Services, RN, Psychotherapist, RP, MA, BA
Therapy Heals Psychotherapy & Counselling Services
RN, Psychotherapist, RP, MA, BA
Serves Area
Do you feel overwhelmed, anxious, exhausted, sad or frustrated ? Is this impacting your day to day life and/or affecting your relationships? If you struggle with any of these emotions and don't know know where to turn, we can help! At Therapy Heals we offer a custom approach for each of our clients! We want to understand where you are now and the challenges impacting your ability to feel your best and be happy. We offer a safe space with in-person or virtual appointments to suit your schedule so that you can begin your journey to healing.
Do you feel overwhelmed, anxious, exhausted, sad or frustrated ? Is this impacting your day to day life and/or affecting your relationships? If you struggle with any of these emotions and don't know know where to turn, we can help! At Therapy Heals we offer a custom approach for each of our clients! We want to understand where you are now and the challenges impacting your ability to feel your best and be happy. We offer a safe space with in-person or virtual appointments to suit your schedule so that you can begin your journey to healing.
(888) 340-4325 View (888) 340-4325

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jasmine Kwan Yee Tsang, Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, MEd
Jasmine Kwan Yee Tsang
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, MEd
10 Endorsed
Markham, ON L3P
You may be carrying emotional scars and burdens that lie heavy in your heart. The burdens can leave you feeling overwhelmed, weighed down by guilt or shame, caught in emotional ups and downs, or unsure of who you are. At times, they can hold you back from the life you want — or even leading you to unknowingly sabotage it. Unloading the heavy burdens and scars will be the first step to healing. Through this process, you will gain a deeper self-understanding, eventually releasing the weight, and finally moving forward to enrich your life.
You may be carrying emotional scars and burdens that lie heavy in your heart. The burdens can leave you feeling overwhelmed, weighed down by guilt or shame, caught in emotional ups and downs, or unsure of who you are. At times, they can hold you back from the life you want — or even leading you to unknowingly sabotage it. Unloading the heavy burdens and scars will be the first step to healing. Through this process, you will gain a deeper self-understanding, eventually releasing the weight, and finally moving forward to enrich your life.
(289) 273-3575 View (289) 273-3575
Photo of Robbi Collings, Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP
Robbi Collings
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
As we go through difficult experiences, I believe that there is comfort in not being alone. I believe that a connection with another person can provide an opportunity to feel safe as we explore unknown parts of our lives. I am hopeful and believe that there are possibilities that are here to be uncovered in each of us. I bring generosity of spirit into my work and will meet you where you are at in your process and we will move forward in a way that feels right for you. I am open to sitting with whatever it is that you are experiencing, including those places that may feel scary, painful or overwhelming.
As we go through difficult experiences, I believe that there is comfort in not being alone. I believe that a connection with another person can provide an opportunity to feel safe as we explore unknown parts of our lives. I am hopeful and believe that there are possibilities that are here to be uncovered in each of us. I bring generosity of spirit into my work and will meet you where you are at in your process and we will move forward in a way that feels right for you. I am open to sitting with whatever it is that you are experiencing, including those places that may feel scary, painful or overwhelming.
(647) 362-1257 View (647) 362-1257
Photo of Ariel Gersman, Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
Ariel Gersman
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
Angus, ON L0M
I use a non-judgemental, collaborative, and integrative therapeutic approach rooted in a variety of theories and interventions including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Family Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Trauma Informed Therapy, Attachment, Neurobiology, Mindfulness and play-based interventions.
Welcome to Therapy Heals! For more than 10 years, I have been providing counselling and therapy services to individuals and families. During my career, I have supported adults, children, youth and families to manage experiences of anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, relationship issues, stress, trauma, grief and loss, parenting challenges and more. I am known for my empathetic approach, my ability to build strong relationships with my clients, and my commitment to ensuring that everyone I work with feels heard, valued, and supported.
I use a non-judgemental, collaborative, and integrative therapeutic approach rooted in a variety of theories and interventions including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Family Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Trauma Informed Therapy, Attachment, Neurobiology, Mindfulness and play-based interventions.
Welcome to Therapy Heals! For more than 10 years, I have been providing counselling and therapy services to individuals and families. During my career, I have supported adults, children, youth and families to manage experiences of anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, relationship issues, stress, trauma, grief and loss, parenting challenges and more. I am known for my empathetic approach, my ability to build strong relationships with my clients, and my commitment to ensuring that everyone I work with feels heard, valued, and supported.
(888) 340-4325 View (888) 340-4325
Photo of Julien Fortier, Registered Social Worker, MSW, BMT, RSW
Julien Fortier
Registered Social Worker, MSW, BMT, RSW
7 Endorsed
Online Only
Life can be overwhelming at times, and reaching out for support is a big step. I work with people facing challenges like depression, anxiety, PTSD, intellectual disabilities, substance use, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. My approach combines mindfulness, CBT, and music therapy, always with empathy at the core. I’m here to provide care that’s fair, accessible, and personalized to fit your unique needs. Together, we’ll work toward stability and a healthier mindset in a space where you feel safe, heard, and supported.
Life can be overwhelming at times, and reaching out for support is a big step. I work with people facing challenges like depression, anxiety, PTSD, intellectual disabilities, substance use, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. My approach combines mindfulness, CBT, and music therapy, always with empathy at the core. I’m here to provide care that’s fair, accessible, and personalized to fit your unique needs. Together, we’ll work toward stability and a healthier mindset in a space where you feel safe, heard, and supported.
(647) 492-5144 View (647) 492-5144
Photo of Deborah Mather, Registered Psychotherapist, BSc, MDiv, RP
Deborah Mather
Registered Psychotherapist, BSc, MDiv, RP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are anxiety, depression, or relationship struggles weighing you down? Do you struggle with sleep or feel overwhelmed by life’s challenges and need a safe space to process your thoughts and emotions? You don’t have to face this alone—I’m here to help. Together, we’ll seek to uncover the root causes of your distress and work toward meaningful healing and change.
Are anxiety, depression, or relationship struggles weighing you down? Do you struggle with sleep or feel overwhelmed by life’s challenges and need a safe space to process your thoughts and emotions? You don’t have to face this alone—I’m here to help. Together, we’ll seek to uncover the root causes of your distress and work toward meaningful healing and change.
(289) 216-6973 View (289) 216-6973
Photo of Em Yule, Pre-Licensed Professional, MACP
Em Yule
Pre-Licensed Professional, MACP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I may draw from a variety of therapy modalities including: DBT, IFS, ACT, somatics, attachment work and EFT.
Hello and welcome, my name is Em! I am a non-binary, queer and neurodivergent psychotherapist, RP (Qualifying). My therapy style is compassionate and validating with some gentle challenging and humour. I am deeply connected to the principles of neurodivergent-affirming care; I don't believe there is a 'right' or 'wrong' way to function. I love to work with folks to identify accessible accomodations, build self-trust, explore values and recognize their special interests! I will always make space to celebrate both small and big wins in the therapy space.
I may draw from a variety of therapy modalities including: DBT, IFS, ACT, somatics, attachment work and EFT.
Hello and welcome, my name is Em! I am a non-binary, queer and neurodivergent psychotherapist, RP (Qualifying). My therapy style is compassionate and validating with some gentle challenging and humour. I am deeply connected to the principles of neurodivergent-affirming care; I don't believe there is a 'right' or 'wrong' way to function. I love to work with folks to identify accessible accomodations, build self-trust, explore values and recognize their special interests! I will always make space to celebrate both small and big wins in the therapy space.
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Photo of Fatima Murtaza, Registered Social Worker, BAPsych, BSW, MSW, RSW
Fatima Murtaza
Registered Social Worker, BAPsych, BSW, MSW, RSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Toronto based psychotherapist with a virtual practice at your fingertips. What you will experience is someone who is relatable, easy to talk to, and eager to listen. I specialize in helping people with childhood developmental trauma; adults who struggle with repeating depressive episodes; procrastination and anxiety; and difficulty coping with stress both at work and in relationships. You can connect to the life you want to live. My treatment approach combines knowledge of how your brain and body work, and through evidence based modalities we work on helping you process and relieve your symptoms, thoughts and emotions.
I am a Toronto based psychotherapist with a virtual practice at your fingertips. What you will experience is someone who is relatable, easy to talk to, and eager to listen. I specialize in helping people with childhood developmental trauma; adults who struggle with repeating depressive episodes; procrastination and anxiety; and difficulty coping with stress both at work and in relationships. You can connect to the life you want to live. My treatment approach combines knowledge of how your brain and body work, and through evidence based modalities we work on helping you process and relieve your symptoms, thoughts and emotions.
(647) 905-6431 View (647) 905-6431
Photo of Ressa Karoly, Registered Social Worker, RSW
Ressa Karoly
Registered Social Worker, RSW
Toronto, ON M6B
Hi! I’m Ressa. I specialize in helping teens and young adults navigate the complex emotions associated with anxiety and depression. I also work with parents who want to support their children and improve their parent/child relationship. With over 10 years in clinical practice and decades of experience working with this age group, I guide my clients towards a path of self-acceptance and purpose, helping you lead a fulfilling life and rediscover joy. You may be facing challenges, whether it’s at home, school, or in your social lives. Common issues include social anxiety, loneliness, a lack of motivation, or feeling misunderstood.
Hi! I’m Ressa. I specialize in helping teens and young adults navigate the complex emotions associated with anxiety and depression. I also work with parents who want to support their children and improve their parent/child relationship. With over 10 years in clinical practice and decades of experience working with this age group, I guide my clients towards a path of self-acceptance and purpose, helping you lead a fulfilling life and rediscover joy. You may be facing challenges, whether it’s at home, school, or in your social lives. Common issues include social anxiety, loneliness, a lack of motivation, or feeling misunderstood.
(647) 694-3687 View (647) 694-3687
Photo of Katie Strain, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Katie Strain
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Serves Area
I utilize Dialectal Behavioural Therapy ( DBT), Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and other mindfulness-based approaches in my practice.
Hi there, my name is Katie and I am happy you are here. In my therapeutic practice, I believe that healing and growth are deeply personal journeys, shaped by the unique circumstances, experiences, and strengths of each individual. I take a personalized and holistic approach to therapy that meets you where you are, is a collaborative and empowering process, and I’m here with you every step of the way. By focusing on your strengths and resilience, I aim to create a space where you feel less isolated, supported, and capable of facing life’s challenges.
I utilize Dialectal Behavioural Therapy ( DBT), Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and other mindfulness-based approaches in my practice.
Hi there, my name is Katie and I am happy you are here. In my therapeutic practice, I believe that healing and growth are deeply personal journeys, shaped by the unique circumstances, experiences, and strengths of each individual. I take a personalized and holistic approach to therapy that meets you where you are, is a collaborative and empowering process, and I’m here with you every step of the way. By focusing on your strengths and resilience, I aim to create a space where you feel less isolated, supported, and capable of facing life’s challenges.
(365) 305-2724 View (365) 305-2724
Maisha K.
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, R.P.
Online Only
My practice is grounded in extensive clinical training across various modalities—including DBT, Somatic, and Trauma-informed care—and is enriched by a global professional history spanning Canada, Asia, and Africa.
As a psychotherapist specializing in supporting survivors of relational abuse—including intimate partner, family, and institutional abuse—I truly believe individuals can rediscover their strength and thrive after adversity. I recognize that each person’s journey is unique, and my goal is to provide a safe, supportive space where clients can learn to trust themselves, achieve their goals, and find genuine joy.
My practice is grounded in extensive clinical training across various modalities—including DBT, Somatic, and Trauma-informed care—and is enriched by a global professional history spanning Canada, Asia, and Africa.
As a psychotherapist specializing in supporting survivors of relational abuse—including intimate partner, family, and institutional abuse—I truly believe individuals can rediscover their strength and thrive after adversity. I recognize that each person’s journey is unique, and my goal is to provide a safe, supportive space where clients can learn to trust themselves, achieve their goals, and find genuine joy.
(416) 214-3408 View (416) 214-3408
Photo of Jonathan Au, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Jonathan Au
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My approach to therapy is eclectic: I use CBT, ACT, IPT, mindfulness, DBT skills, and EMDR.
Figuring out who you are, where you're going, and where you belong in the world can be overwhelming, especially today! You might be dealing with anxiety, stress, low mood or depression, or trying to understand yourself more deeply. Therapy is a space where you can learn to be authentically yourself while navigating these challenges. I'm a queer and BIPOC therapist with several years of experience. I work with young adults, LGBTQ+ and questioning, racialized clients navigating their identities, managing mental health, and life transitions. Reach out and let's connect!
My approach to therapy is eclectic: I use CBT, ACT, IPT, mindfulness, DBT skills, and EMDR.
Figuring out who you are, where you're going, and where you belong in the world can be overwhelming, especially today! You might be dealing with anxiety, stress, low mood or depression, or trying to understand yourself more deeply. Therapy is a space where you can learn to be authentically yourself while navigating these challenges. I'm a queer and BIPOC therapist with several years of experience. I work with young adults, LGBTQ+ and questioning, racialized clients navigating their identities, managing mental health, and life transitions. Reach out and let's connect!
(289) 275-4092 View (289) 275-4092
Photo of Danielle Lancaster, Registered Psychotherapist, MCouns, GIT, BA
Danielle Lancaster
Registered Psychotherapist, MCouns, GIT, BA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome! Are you someone who is struggling with grief, feeling lost, or burdened by family of origin issues?
Welcome! Are you someone who is struggling with grief, feeling lost, or burdened by family of origin issues?
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Photo of Atessa Hooshvar, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, RPT
Atessa Hooshvar
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, RPT
1 Endorsed
Richmond Hill, ON L4B
In my practice, I use various modalities, including CBT, DBT, Schema Therapy, Art Therapy, Meaning Therapy, and Existential therapy tailored to each client’s needs and capacity.
I am an artist with a mission to help people grow through their pain, guiding them to find meaning and purpose in their sufferings. I believe psychotherapy is an art in itself. Our lives are filled with light and shadow; to make life beautiful, we need creativity, bravery, knowledge, trust, and a safe space to explore and regulate our emotions. With my life experiences as a woman, immigrant, Middle Easterner, artist, mother, wife, and three-time cancer survivor, I can understand you without judgement. In many cases, I know exactly how you feel. If I don’t, we can talk, and I will learn from you.
In my practice, I use various modalities, including CBT, DBT, Schema Therapy, Art Therapy, Meaning Therapy, and Existential therapy tailored to each client’s needs and capacity.
I am an artist with a mission to help people grow through their pain, guiding them to find meaning and purpose in their sufferings. I believe psychotherapy is an art in itself. Our lives are filled with light and shadow; to make life beautiful, we need creativity, bravery, knowledge, trust, and a safe space to explore and regulate our emotions. With my life experiences as a woman, immigrant, Middle Easterner, artist, mother, wife, and three-time cancer survivor, I can understand you without judgement. In many cases, I know exactly how you feel. If I don’t, we can talk, and I will learn from you.
(289) 402-8828 View (289) 402-8828
Photo of Erin Sunstrum, Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, BEd, HBA, RP
Erin Sunstrum
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, BEd, HBA, RP
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
I draw from multiple modalities, including PCT, CBT, DBT, narrative, and trauma-informed.
I am committed to helping clients build resilience and create a value-driven life. I believe in nurturing self-compassion and developing skills to engage with and overcome struggles. This happens through validation, exploration, and challenge and building a trusting, open relationship with my clients. My clients are experiencing anxiety, grief, depression, trauma, relational challenges, behavioral issues, ADHD, and coping with daily life. I specialize in supporting teens, young adults, families, and adults, in a safe, inclusive, and relaxed environment. This means a therapeutic space that is warm, welcoming, and affirming.
I draw from multiple modalities, including PCT, CBT, DBT, narrative, and trauma-informed.
I am committed to helping clients build resilience and create a value-driven life. I believe in nurturing self-compassion and developing skills to engage with and overcome struggles. This happens through validation, exploration, and challenge and building a trusting, open relationship with my clients. My clients are experiencing anxiety, grief, depression, trauma, relational challenges, behavioral issues, ADHD, and coping with daily life. I specialize in supporting teens, young adults, families, and adults, in a safe, inclusive, and relaxed environment. This means a therapeutic space that is warm, welcoming, and affirming.
(226) 774-1213 View (226) 774-1213
Photo of Michelle Laxamana - Holding Hearts Psychotherapy and Counselling, Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, DCP, RCFT, ACTA, CCC
Holding Hearts Psychotherapy and Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, DCP, RCFT, ACTA, CCC
Richmond Hill, ON L4B
Finding the right therapist is as important as getting the right help. In the process of seeking who you would prefer to work with, we offer a free 15 minute consultation over the phone. If you decide to make an appointment, the first session has no strings attached. We will go through what the concerns are, some goals, and expectations (if any), and you can decide whether you are ready for us to continue with further sessions. Collaboration is essential in this process of finding a path to your healing. Take the next step and give us a call to see if we can work together. Our office hours are M-F 9am-8pm and Saturdays 10am-5pm.
Finding the right therapist is as important as getting the right help. In the process of seeking who you would prefer to work with, we offer a free 15 minute consultation over the phone. If you decide to make an appointment, the first session has no strings attached. We will go through what the concerns are, some goals, and expectations (if any), and you can decide whether you are ready for us to continue with further sessions. Collaboration is essential in this process of finding a path to your healing. Take the next step and give us a call to see if we can work together. Our office hours are M-F 9am-8pm and Saturdays 10am-5pm.
(647) 691-0498 View (647) 691-0498
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.