Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Tottenham, ON

Photo of Carly J Reiter, Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Carly J Reiter
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Tottenham, ON L0G
Over the past decade I have worked in long term care, addiction treatment settings, and youth shelters. These experiences shaped how I understand mental health and life stress. I have seen how powerful it can be when someone finally has a space where they feel heard, understood, and supported. Many of the people I work with struggle with anxiety that feels constant and overwhelming. When your brain is in anxiety mode it sends alarm signals that make everything feel urgent or scary. These reactions are not a personal failure. They are your brain trying to protect you, even when the threat is not actually there.
Over the past decade I have worked in long term care, addiction treatment settings, and youth shelters. These experiences shaped how I understand mental health and life stress. I have seen how powerful it can be when someone finally has a space where they feel heard, understood, and supported. Many of the people I work with struggle with anxiety that feels constant and overwhelming. When your brain is in anxiety mode it sends alarm signals that make everything feel urgent or scary. These reactions are not a personal failure. They are your brain trying to protect you, even when the threat is not actually there.
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Photo of Christine Scovell, Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Christine Scovell
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Tottenham, ON L0G
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
Tottenham, ON L0G
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 Blessing Anyanwu, Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv
Blessing Anyanwu
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I utilize various psychotherapeutic modalities such as Rogerian Client-Centered Therapy, CBT, DBT, Family Systems and Narrative
Welcome! I am glad you’re here. Taking the step to seek therapy and mental health support is a courageous decision, and I am committed to providing a safe and nurturing environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings. My goal is to empower you to overcome challenges and achieve mental wellness. I specialize in helping adults navigate the complexities of life through effective counseling and psychotherapy.
I utilize various psychotherapeutic modalities such as Rogerian Client-Centered Therapy, CBT, DBT, Family Systems and Narrative
Welcome! I am glad you’re here. Taking the step to seek therapy and mental health support is a courageous decision, and I am committed to providing a safe and nurturing environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings. My goal is to empower you to overcome challenges and achieve mental wellness. I specialize in helping adults navigate the complexities of life through effective counseling and psychotherapy.
(289) 809-1654 View (289) 809-1654
Photo of Amelia Perri - Therapy Heals Psychotherapy & Counselling Services, RN, Psychotherapist, RP, MA, BA
Therapy Heals Psychotherapy & Counselling Services
RN, Psychotherapist, RP, MA, BA
Tottenham, ON L0G
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
Photo of Samantha Cohen, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Samantha Cohen
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
1 Endorsed
Tottenham, ON L0G
I have over 10 years of experience working with children, youth, and adults. When working with young children, I will incorporate play techniques to help them feel more comfortable and open during the counselling. I also work with parents and I love to work with adults individually as well. I enjoy partnering with my clients of any age, and I am passionate about assisting them as they navigate through challenging times in their lives. I work transparently with clients and practice with a non-judgmental approach.
I have over 10 years of experience working with children, youth, and adults. When working with young children, I will incorporate play techniques to help them feel more comfortable and open during the counselling. I also work with parents and I love to work with adults individually as well. I enjoy partnering with my clients of any age, and I am passionate about assisting them as they navigate through challenging times in their lives. I work transparently with clients and practice with a non-judgmental approach.
(905) 936-4747 View (905) 936-4747
Photo of Dr. Cheryl Birch, Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Dr. Cheryl Birch
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
1 Endorsed
Tottenham, ON L0G
I am well-experienced in customizing treatments to meet unique client needs using a variety of therapy approaches including: Cognitive and Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Humanistic Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
Warm Greetings! I am a Registered Clinical Psychologist serving Orangeville, Caledon, Shelburne, New Tecumseth, Erin, Grand Valley and surrounding communities. My doctorate was completed in 2008, and I have experience in a wide variety of clinical settings. Individual assessment and therapy support is available for adolescents and adults in my clinic. It is my passionate commitment to respect clients' strengths and diverse backgrounds. I truly count it a privilege to walk alongside others in their pursuit of wellness. My approach is caring and non-judgmental. I am dedicated to a scientist-practitioner approach in providing treatments that have proven effectiveness.
I am well-experienced in customizing treatments to meet unique client needs using a variety of therapy approaches including: Cognitive and Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Humanistic Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
Warm Greetings! I am a Registered Clinical Psychologist serving Orangeville, Caledon, Shelburne, New Tecumseth, Erin, Grand Valley and surrounding communities. My doctorate was completed in 2008, and I have experience in a wide variety of clinical settings. Individual assessment and therapy support is available for adolescents and adults in my clinic. It is my passionate commitment to respect clients' strengths and diverse backgrounds. I truly count it a privilege to walk alongside others in their pursuit of wellness. My approach is caring and non-judgmental. I am dedicated to a scientist-practitioner approach in providing treatments that have proven effectiveness.
(844) 629-9636 View (844) 629-9636
Photo of Ann Merton - WindHorse Psychology, MA, CPsych
WindHorse Psychology
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Treatment approaches include CBT, CPT, DBT, EMDR, & other modalities.
Our Clinic Director, Ann Merton, has been providing comprehensive Psychoeducational Assessments for 20 years for children, teens and adults. Ann works with her skilled assistant to understand the learning & emotional needs of each child in order to help plan the right supports, programs, and treatment for that unique child.
Treatment approaches include CBT, CPT, DBT, EMDR, & other modalities.
Our Clinic Director, Ann Merton, has been providing comprehensive Psychoeducational Assessments for 20 years for children, teens and adults. Ann works with her skilled assistant to understand the learning & emotional needs of each child in order to help plan the right supports, programs, and treatment for that unique child.
(289) 274-8287 View (289) 274-8287
Photo of Bibin Kannachel Ittiavira, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Bibin Kannachel Ittiavira
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Serves Area
Through the integration of evidence-based techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), Existential Therapy, Schema Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, and Supportive Psychotherapy, I help you heal.
Struggling with relationships, addiction, or personal challenges? You're not alone, and support is here. Men and women often face unique issues, including emotional disconnection in relationships, difficulty balancing work and life, or battling addiction. Whether it's alcohol, gaming, or other behaviors, breaking free can feel overwhelming. You deserve to be heard and understood without judgment. Together, we’ll work on building stronger relationships, overcoming addiction, and rediscovering confidence. Seeking help isn’t weakness, it’s courage. Take control of your journey toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Through the integration of evidence-based techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), Existential Therapy, Schema Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, and Supportive Psychotherapy, I help you heal.
Struggling with relationships, addiction, or personal challenges? You're not alone, and support is here. Men and women often face unique issues, including emotional disconnection in relationships, difficulty balancing work and life, or battling addiction. Whether it's alcohol, gaming, or other behaviors, breaking free can feel overwhelming. You deserve to be heard and understood without judgment. Together, we’ll work on building stronger relationships, overcoming addiction, and rediscovering confidence. Seeking help isn’t weakness, it’s courage. Take control of your journey toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.
(249) 503-3840 View (249) 503-3840
Photo of Trish McLean, Registered Psychotherapist, RN, RP, PhD(Th)
Trish McLean
Registered Psychotherapist, RN, RP, PhD(Th)
6 Endorsed
Serves Area
Covid-19 has revealed the dark side of life. Things are so painful, overwhelming, and hidden hurts and wounds are being exposed. Families, couples, and individuals ask themselves, “Where do we begin? Where are we going?” Your story begins now. As the founder and owner of The Story Isn’t Over, I provide a safe place for you to speak freely, and explore your emotions to find healing in your story.I prioritize an empathetic and compassionate relationship with my clients. I believe that a good therapeutic relationship is critical to the therapeutic process.
Covid-19 has revealed the dark side of life. Things are so painful, overwhelming, and hidden hurts and wounds are being exposed. Families, couples, and individuals ask themselves, “Where do we begin? Where are we going?” Your story begins now. As the founder and owner of The Story Isn’t Over, I provide a safe place for you to speak freely, and explore your emotions to find healing in your story.I prioritize an empathetic and compassionate relationship with my clients. I believe that a good therapeutic relationship is critical to the therapeutic process.
(647) 957-9163 View (647) 957-9163
Photo of Emily Duggan, Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Emily Duggan
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Serves Area
I use DBT, ACT, strength-based, person-centered, and play-informed approaches to create an engaging, supportive experience that fosters growth, self-expression, and emotional well-being.
I work with individuals navigating anxiety, emotional overwhelm, body image, self-esteem, and neurodivergence, including ADHD and autism, as well as eating disorders and trauma. Many feel stuck in patterns or disconnected from themselves. Together, we explore what’s happening in the present while making sense of underlying patterns and learned ways of coping, while also building tools that feel realistic and supportive, at a pace that feels manageable.
I use DBT, ACT, strength-based, person-centered, and play-informed approaches to create an engaging, supportive experience that fosters growth, self-expression, and emotional well-being.
I work with individuals navigating anxiety, emotional overwhelm, body image, self-esteem, and neurodivergence, including ADHD and autism, as well as eating disorders and trauma. Many feel stuck in patterns or disconnected from themselves. Together, we explore what’s happening in the present while making sense of underlying patterns and learned ways of coping, while also building tools that feel realistic and supportive, at a pace that feels manageable.
(249) 202-2261 View (249) 202-2261
Photo of Maria J Chuburu, Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Maria J Chuburu
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Online Only
Using CBT, DBT-informed strategies, and trauma-informed care, I help you understand patterns, regulate emotions, and build coping skills.
My ideal clients are adults experiencing anxiety, trauma-related symptoms, workplace stress, or major life transitions. Many feel overwhelmed, stuck, or are adjusting to changes such as injury, health challenges, or shifts in identity and routine. As a bilingual (English/Spanish), bicultural therapist, I also support those navigating cultural identity or life between cultures. Together, we focus on understanding patterns and building practical tools to manage emotions, improve functioning, and move forward with greater stability and confidence.
Using CBT, DBT-informed strategies, and trauma-informed care, I help you understand patterns, regulate emotions, and build coping skills.
My ideal clients are adults experiencing anxiety, trauma-related symptoms, workplace stress, or major life transitions. Many feel overwhelmed, stuck, or are adjusting to changes such as injury, health challenges, or shifts in identity and routine. As a bilingual (English/Spanish), bicultural therapist, I also support those navigating cultural identity or life between cultures. Together, we focus on understanding patterns and building practical tools to manage emotions, improve functioning, and move forward with greater stability and confidence.
(437) 476-3438 View (437) 476-3438
Photo of Lianne Kendall Perfect, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, SSW, MACP
Lianne Kendall Perfect
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, SSW, MACP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I draw from a mix of therapeutic approaches like CBT, DBT, IPT, Narrative Therapy, and Strengths-Based Therapy, tailoring each session to what feels right for you.
Hello, I’m Lianne! I’m a trauma-informed and culturally-responsive Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with over 15 years of experience in mental wellness. If you’re feeling alone with your thoughts or going through a tough time, you don’t have to face it all on your own. Starting therapy can feel scary, but it’s a powerful step—and I’m here to walk alongside you. My goal is to create a warm, supportive space where you feel seen, heard, and accepted. I welcome people of all genders, sexual orientations, and expressions, and I’m here to support you in finding clarity, healing, and hope.
I draw from a mix of therapeutic approaches like CBT, DBT, IPT, Narrative Therapy, and Strengths-Based Therapy, tailoring each session to what feels right for you.
Hello, I’m Lianne! I’m a trauma-informed and culturally-responsive Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with over 15 years of experience in mental wellness. If you’re feeling alone with your thoughts or going through a tough time, you don’t have to face it all on your own. Starting therapy can feel scary, but it’s a powerful step—and I’m here to walk alongside you. My goal is to create a warm, supportive space where you feel seen, heard, and accepted. I welcome people of all genders, sexual orientations, and expressions, and I’m here to support you in finding clarity, healing, and hope.
(226) 807-7392 View (226) 807-7392
Photo of Bryony Pichette, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CC-PMH
Bryony Pichette
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CC-PMH
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
Are you feeling consumed by anxiety, depression or overwhelm as you navigate big changes in your life? Are you struggling to balance work, family and your personal well-being? The pressure to navigate these challenges can leave you feeling disconnected and unsure of yourself and your ability to cope. It’s hard to find peace when everything feels out of control. You don’t have to stay stuck in this place of uncertainty. In therapy, we can work toward finding the calm, confidence, and balance you deserve. Together, we’ll untangle the chaos, quiet the self-doubt, and help you feel like YOU again.
Are you feeling consumed by anxiety, depression or overwhelm as you navigate big changes in your life? Are you struggling to balance work, family and your personal well-being? The pressure to navigate these challenges can leave you feeling disconnected and unsure of yourself and your ability to cope. It’s hard to find peace when everything feels out of control. You don’t have to stay stuck in this place of uncertainty. In therapy, we can work toward finding the calm, confidence, and balance you deserve. Together, we’ll untangle the chaos, quiet the self-doubt, and help you feel like YOU again.
(548) 290-8989 View (548) 290-8989

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Perla Pardias, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Perla Pardias
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am highly trained in evidence-based therapies such as CBT, DBT, ERP and SFBT.
Hi there, I'm Perla! I specialize in working with adolescents and adults. I feel truly passionate about supporting holistic mental health using an eclectic, individualized and evidence-based approach tailored to YOU. My practice is client-centered, strengths-based, collaborative and empathetic; relying on curiousity, authenticity and genuine caring. I want you to know you are not alone. I am here to meet you where you are at and move forward together as a team. Reaching out for help requires a lot of courage, insight, vulnerability, and a willingness to work hard. Without having yet met, I already know these are true about you!
I am highly trained in evidence-based therapies such as CBT, DBT, ERP and SFBT.
Hi there, I'm Perla! I specialize in working with adolescents and adults. I feel truly passionate about supporting holistic mental health using an eclectic, individualized and evidence-based approach tailored to YOU. My practice is client-centered, strengths-based, collaborative and empathetic; relying on curiousity, authenticity and genuine caring. I want you to know you are not alone. I am here to meet you where you are at and move forward together as a team. Reaching out for help requires a lot of courage, insight, vulnerability, and a willingness to work hard. Without having yet met, I already know these are true about you!
(365) 363-2187 View (365) 363-2187
Photo of Elda Almario, Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Elda Almario
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
4 Endorsed
Online Only
As a Filipino immigrant, you’ve probably spent years caring for others, meeting expectations, or trying to find where you truly belong. Maybe you feel the weight of sacrifices made, the pressure to make others proud, or the quiet ache of losing yourself in the process. Whether you grew up here or moved later in life, it can feel lonely to carry so much while keeping it together for everyone else. You’ve held that weight for so long that rest can feel unfamiliar, even uneasy. Our work is a space where you can slow down, be understood, and simply be yourself.
As a Filipino immigrant, you’ve probably spent years caring for others, meeting expectations, or trying to find where you truly belong. Maybe you feel the weight of sacrifices made, the pressure to make others proud, or the quiet ache of losing yourself in the process. Whether you grew up here or moved later in life, it can feel lonely to carry so much while keeping it together for everyone else. You’ve held that weight for so long that rest can feel unfamiliar, even uneasy. Our work is a space where you can slow down, be understood, and simply be yourself.
(365) 832-6408 View (365) 832-6408
Photo of Kevin Haynes, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Kevin Haynes
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5G
Are you looking to make meaningful and sustainable changes in your life? Struggling with a difficult personal or family life situation? Tired of talking to people who just don’t seem to get it? You’ve come to the right place! We offer strengths-based, goal-oriented psychotherapy to support children, youth, adults, and families to express and explore difficult thoughts, understand each other's experiences, appreciate each other's needs, build on strengths, and make meaningful changes in your relationships and your life.
Are you looking to make meaningful and sustainable changes in your life? Struggling with a difficult personal or family life situation? Tired of talking to people who just don’t seem to get it? You’ve come to the right place! We offer strengths-based, goal-oriented psychotherapy to support children, youth, adults, and families to express and explore difficult thoughts, understand each other's experiences, appreciate each other's needs, build on strengths, and make meaningful changes in your relationships and your life.
(647) 249-8265 View (647) 249-8265
Photo of Nechama Drookman, Registered Psychotherapist, BEd, MA, RP
Nechama Drookman
Registered Psychotherapist, BEd, MA, RP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
You may recognize that something in your life is not aligned with your hopes and dreams. You may feel stuck and are struggling - you don't need to do this alone! I'm here to provide you with the guidance and clarity you seek. You may be experiencing depression, grief, anxiety, stress, trauma, ineffective or damaging coping mechanisms such as substance misuse and other addictions, life-cycle crises such as divorce, empty nest, infertility, and marriage and/or parenting difficulties. Together we can uncover and understand the root causes that influence your circumstances and explore options for managing your presenting issues.
You may recognize that something in your life is not aligned with your hopes and dreams. You may feel stuck and are struggling - you don't need to do this alone! I'm here to provide you with the guidance and clarity you seek. You may be experiencing depression, grief, anxiety, stress, trauma, ineffective or damaging coping mechanisms such as substance misuse and other addictions, life-cycle crises such as divorce, empty nest, infertility, and marriage and/or parenting difficulties. Together we can uncover and understand the root causes that influence your circumstances and explore options for managing your presenting issues.
(289) 216-8472 View (289) 216-8472
Photo of Nikka Collison, Registered Psychotherapist
Nikka Collison
Registered Psychotherapist
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Anxiety, relationship struggles, overwhelm or big life changes can make even the simplest things feel hard - sleeping, socializing, feeling confident in yourself. You might be trying to improve, but still feel stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from who you used to be. Maybe you can't remember what life felt like without anxiety. But you’re ready for a change. You want better routines, more confidence, and to stop letting anxiety call the shots. Most of all, you want to feel like you again and reconnect with what matters most. I’m here to help you get there.
Anxiety, relationship struggles, overwhelm or big life changes can make even the simplest things feel hard - sleeping, socializing, feeling confident in yourself. You might be trying to improve, but still feel stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from who you used to be. Maybe you can't remember what life felt like without anxiety. But you’re ready for a change. You want better routines, more confidence, and to stop letting anxiety call the shots. Most of all, you want to feel like you again and reconnect with what matters most. I’m here to help you get there.
(289) 277-6679 View (289) 277-6679
Photo of Loretta Mui - Plum Dawn Therapy, Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, RSW
Plum Dawn Therapy
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, RSW
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6S
Hello, I’m Loretta, a queer Registered Social Worker and psychotherapist. My approach to this work is non-pathologizing, trauma-focused, and collaborative. In my practice I regularly support neurodiverse, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+ clients with self and identity explorations, attachment injuries, CPTSD, AuDHD/ADHD, anxiety, low mood, grief and loss. As your therapist I will meet you with warmth and compassion, deeply listening and honouring all the parts of you that show up in therapy. I will be away from June 20th to July 20th, if you are reaching out for a consult it may take me longer to get back to you. Thanks for your understanding!
Hello, I’m Loretta, a queer Registered Social Worker and psychotherapist. My approach to this work is non-pathologizing, trauma-focused, and collaborative. In my practice I regularly support neurodiverse, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+ clients with self and identity explorations, attachment injuries, CPTSD, AuDHD/ADHD, anxiety, low mood, grief and loss. As your therapist I will meet you with warmth and compassion, deeply listening and honouring all the parts of you that show up in therapy. I will be away from June 20th to July 20th, if you are reaching out for a consult it may take me longer to get back to you. Thanks for your understanding!
(437) 291-0683 View (437) 291-0683
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.