Photo of Dr Keren Smith, Psychologist in Marylebone, London, England
Dr Keren Smith
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Marylebone, London W1H  (Online Only)
Keren also has an interest in working with people who use drugs or alcohol to manage their emotions and has completed additional DBT training in this area.
Dr Keren Smith worked for the NHS at South London and Maudsley Foundation Trust from 2009 until 2022 where she and her colleagues set up the pioneering National and Specialist Dialectical Behaviour Therapy service for adolescents. Keren has seen clients independently since 2012 and works with both adults and adolescents with a wide range of difficulties. She has a particular interest in working with people with a history of trauma and symptoms associated with PTSD and CPTSD; she has completed further training in specialist trauma focused models including EMDR and DBT-PE.
Keren also has an interest in working with people who use drugs or alcohol to manage their emotions and has completed additional DBT training in this area.
Dr Keren Smith worked for the NHS at South London and Maudsley Foundation Trust from 2009 until 2022 where she and her colleagues set up the pioneering National and Specialist Dialectical Behaviour Therapy service for adolescents. Keren has seen clients independently since 2012 and works with both adults and adolescents with a wide range of difficulties. She has a particular interest in working with people with a history of trauma and symptoms associated with PTSD and CPTSD; she has completed further training in specialist trauma focused models including EMDR and DBT-PE.
020 8106 4754 View 020 8106 4754
Photo of Janine Hayward - Composurepsychology, Psychologist in Marylebone, London, England
Janine Hayward - Composurepsychology
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Marylebone, London W1G
Evidence-based therapies we offer include Acceptance & Commitment (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness (general/health & pain), Compassion Focussed Therapy (CFT), EMDR, DBT, Narrative Therapy & Solution Focussed Therapy and Counselling.
Hello. Do you struggle with stress from; work, relationships, or parenting? Are you overwhelmed, worried, depressed, stuck, or low in self-esteem? You are not alone. Does your need to be perfect upset you or take up too much time? Is a trauma, threat to your health, an illness, a major loss or death hurting you? It doesn't have to be that way. We help people like you understand your distress, learn new skills for managing uncomfortable emotions and thoughts, improve relationships, and find meaning and focus. We're Clinical Psychologists (HCPC), with >10 years of experience delivering effective therapy to kids, teens and adults.
Evidence-based therapies we offer include Acceptance & Commitment (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness (general/health & pain), Compassion Focussed Therapy (CFT), EMDR, DBT, Narrative Therapy & Solution Focussed Therapy and Counselling.
Hello. Do you struggle with stress from; work, relationships, or parenting? Are you overwhelmed, worried, depressed, stuck, or low in self-esteem? You are not alone. Does your need to be perfect upset you or take up too much time? Is a trauma, threat to your health, an illness, a major loss or death hurting you? It doesn't have to be that way. We help people like you understand your distress, learn new skills for managing uncomfortable emotions and thoughts, improve relationships, and find meaning and focus. We're Clinical Psychologists (HCPC), with >10 years of experience delivering effective therapy to kids, teens and adults.
0333 344 2063 View 0333 344 2063
Photo of Dr Connie Geyer, Psychologist in Marylebone, London, England
Dr Connie Geyer
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Marylebone, London W1G
My approach is evidence-based and grounded in Schema Therapy and Psychodynamic Therapy, complemented by DBT coping skills coaching, Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR) and Emotion-focused Therapy for couples (EFT).
Perhaps you cope well in some areas of life but have been troubled by difficult feelings, thoughts or life patterns for a while. Maybe loss, trauma, PTSD, or other difficult life events are impacting you. There are many times when speaking with a trained professional can help. I am a Consultant Clinical Psychologist, certified MBT and Schema Therapist, and Supervisor with extensive experience in providing and leading therapy services in the NHS and private practice. I work with adolescents, adults and couples presenting with a wide range of emotional and relational difficulties, which may be rooted in adverse childhood experiences.
My approach is evidence-based and grounded in Schema Therapy and Psychodynamic Therapy, complemented by DBT coping skills coaching, Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR) and Emotion-focused Therapy for couples (EFT).
Perhaps you cope well in some areas of life but have been troubled by difficult feelings, thoughts or life patterns for a while. Maybe loss, trauma, PTSD, or other difficult life events are impacting you. There are many times when speaking with a trained professional can help. I am a Consultant Clinical Psychologist, certified MBT and Schema Therapist, and Supervisor with extensive experience in providing and leading therapy services in the NHS and private practice. I work with adolescents, adults and couples presenting with a wide range of emotional and relational difficulties, which may be rooted in adverse childhood experiences.
020 8138 9538 View 020 8138 9538
Photo of Chloé Donohue, Psychotherapist in Marylebone, London, England
Chloé Donohue
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Marylebone, London W1G  (Online Only)
I believe that each person is unique. Therefore, therapy needs to be tailored to the individual. Some people may prefer an open space for them to talk, taking the time to reflect on their experiences, whereas others may need something more structured, with the hope of learning effective coping strategies. Some may want a bit of both. There is not a one size fits all. I draw from evidence-based modalities of therapy, such as CBT, DBT, Psychodynamic, and Person-Centered to create a therapeutic plan tailored to the client and their goals.
I believe that each person is unique. Therefore, therapy needs to be tailored to the individual. Some people may prefer an open space for them to talk, taking the time to reflect on their experiences, whereas others may need something more structured, with the hope of learning effective coping strategies. Some may want a bit of both. There is not a one size fits all. I draw from evidence-based modalities of therapy, such as CBT, DBT, Psychodynamic, and Person-Centered to create a therapeutic plan tailored to the client and their goals.
01993 221193 View 01993 221193
Photo of Samantha Bottrill, Psychologist in Marylebone, London, England
Samantha Bottrill
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Marylebone, London W1H
Sam draws upon multiple therapeutic approaches, including CBT, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Radically Open Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy, and Systemic Family Therapy.
Dr Sam Bottrill spent almost a decade working at the world renowned Maudsley Hospital Child & Adolescent Eating Disorder Service supporting teenagers and their families through recovery from Anorexia and Bulimia. Sam has worked privately with clients since 2012, working with adolescents, adults and families with a wide range of difficulties, including anxiety, stress, depression, eating disorders, and trauma. Sam also specialises in couples therapy.
Sam draws upon multiple therapeutic approaches, including CBT, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Radically Open Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy, and Systemic Family Therapy.
Dr Sam Bottrill spent almost a decade working at the world renowned Maudsley Hospital Child & Adolescent Eating Disorder Service supporting teenagers and their families through recovery from Anorexia and Bulimia. Sam has worked privately with clients since 2012, working with adolescents, adults and families with a wide range of difficulties, including anxiety, stress, depression, eating disorders, and trauma. Sam also specialises in couples therapy.
020 3870 4206 View 020 3870 4206
Photo of Vauna Beauvais, Psychotherapist in Marylebone, London, England
Vauna Beauvais
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Marylebone, London NW1  (Online Only)
Even though you are looking for a psychotherapist or coach who specialises in working with neurodivergent people, your identity may not be the central reason for seeking a therapist. You can arrive presenting with anything that is part of human experience or life. Yet, the importance of choosing a neurodivergent psychotherapist is that there will be understanding of any sensory and processing differences. This means that wrong assumptions about how you ‘should be’ aren’t made, you won't be misread, and, consequently, the work will have meaning and usefulness for you. Adult individuals and couples are welcome.
Even though you are looking for a psychotherapist or coach who specialises in working with neurodivergent people, your identity may not be the central reason for seeking a therapist. You can arrive presenting with anything that is part of human experience or life. Yet, the importance of choosing a neurodivergent psychotherapist is that there will be understanding of any sensory and processing differences. This means that wrong assumptions about how you ‘should be’ aren’t made, you won't be misread, and, consequently, the work will have meaning and usefulness for you. Adult individuals and couples are welcome.
0115 697 1002 View 0115 697 1002
Photo of The Fitzrovia Psychology Clinic, Psychologist in Marylebone, London, England
The Fitzrovia Psychology Clinic
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Marylebone, London W1G
The Fitzrovia Psychology Clinic is an award-winning, independent private practice providing psychological help and services across London and Surrey. Our clinicians are hand-selected, highly skilled clinical and counselling psychologists, who have established academic backgrounds and NHS careers, in addition to their private work. We provide interventions for a wide variety of mental health conditions and difficulties including stress, anxiety, depression, personality disorders and eating disorders, all of which can have a hugely debilitating effect on our lives and the lives of people around us.
The Fitzrovia Psychology Clinic is an award-winning, independent private practice providing psychological help and services across London and Surrey. Our clinicians are hand-selected, highly skilled clinical and counselling psychologists, who have established academic backgrounds and NHS careers, in addition to their private work. We provide interventions for a wide variety of mental health conditions and difficulties including stress, anxiety, depression, personality disorders and eating disorders, all of which can have a hugely debilitating effect on our lives and the lives of people around us.
020 4538 4770 View 020 4538 4770
Photo of Dr Charlotte Priestley, Psychologist in Marylebone, London, England
Dr Charlotte Priestley
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Marylebone, London W1H
I am a Chartered Clinical Psychologist, with extensive experience supporting clients with a broad range of mental health difficulties both within the NHS and in the private sector. I specialise in the treatment of eating disorders, appearance-related concerns and body image problems (including Body Dysmorphic Disorder BDD).
I am a Chartered Clinical Psychologist, with extensive experience supporting clients with a broad range of mental health difficulties both within the NHS and in the private sector. I specialise in the treatment of eating disorders, appearance-related concerns and body image problems (including Body Dysmorphic Disorder BDD).
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Photo of Dr Axel Löfgren, Consultant Clinical Psychologist, Psychologist in Marylebone, London, England
Dr Axel Löfgren, Consultant Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Marylebone, London W1W
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, sad or worried? Maybe you’re struggling to juggle the many demands of life and feel like everything is getting to you. Taking the first step to getting help is a brave one and often one of the hardest parts. Together we will unpick what is going on for you and identify a way forward to help you get your life back on track. I know how difficult it can be finding a therapist who works with your schedule so I offer evening and weekend appointments.
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, sad or worried? Maybe you’re struggling to juggle the many demands of life and feel like everything is getting to you. Taking the first step to getting help is a brave one and often one of the hardest parts. Together we will unpick what is going on for you and identify a way forward to help you get your life back on track. I know how difficult it can be finding a therapist who works with your schedule so I offer evening and weekend appointments.
020 4538 9103 View 020 4538 9103
Photo of Catherine Cheung, Psychologist in Marylebone, London, England
Catherine Cheung
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Marylebone, London W1G
My name is Dr Catherine Cheung. I am an HCPC-registered Clinical Psychologist who was trained at University College London. I have worked extensively in the private sector and as a Highly Specialist Clinical Psychologist in the NHS. My experiences vary from working with clients with mild to complex mental health needs to supporting those with acute or long-term physical health issues. I am also committed to empowering autistic and neurodiverse individuals, often university students and adults in employment. Being creative, compassionate and empathic are key tenets of my therapy approach.
My name is Dr Catherine Cheung. I am an HCPC-registered Clinical Psychologist who was trained at University College London. I have worked extensively in the private sector and as a Highly Specialist Clinical Psychologist in the NHS. My experiences vary from working with clients with mild to complex mental health needs to supporting those with acute or long-term physical health issues. I am also committed to empowering autistic and neurodiverse individuals, often university students and adults in employment. Being creative, compassionate and empathic are key tenets of my therapy approach.
020 3835 2301 View 020 3835 2301
Photo of Dr Bishnu Upadhaya, Psychologist in Marylebone, London, England
Dr Bishnu Upadhaya
Psychologist, PhD, CPsychol
Not Verified Not Verified
Marylebone, London W1W  (Online Only)
An enthusiastic, skilled and well-motivated Psychological, Neuropsychological, Integrated Medicine and healthcare consultant with more than 19 years’ experiences, promoting the welfare of patients, families, and vulnerable people. Experienced in providing specialist Neuropsychological, Psychological, Herbal Medicine, Naturopathic and Homeopathic Medicine Assessments, Consultation and Treatments of direct and referred clients based upon the appropriate use, interpretation and integration of complex data from a psychological and holistic approach and treatment and tasting.
An enthusiastic, skilled and well-motivated Psychological, Neuropsychological, Integrated Medicine and healthcare consultant with more than 19 years’ experiences, promoting the welfare of patients, families, and vulnerable people. Experienced in providing specialist Neuropsychological, Psychological, Herbal Medicine, Naturopathic and Homeopathic Medicine Assessments, Consultation and Treatments of direct and referred clients based upon the appropriate use, interpretation and integration of complex data from a psychological and holistic approach and treatment and tasting.
020 3835 4892 View 020 3835 4892
Photo of Toby Messer, Counsellor in Marylebone, London, England
Toby Messer
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Marylebone, London W1G  (Online Only)
I am a clinical psychotherapist specialising in multiple approaches including trauma therapy. I am an accredited member of the NCPS register. I currently work internationally online operating from a range of modalities including CBT, REBT and CAT and hold a integrative approach. As a therapist I have clinical experience working with adults with a range of issues including Trauma, attachment injuries, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, gaming addictions, substance misuse, sexual abuse, domestic violence.
I am a clinical psychotherapist specialising in multiple approaches including trauma therapy. I am an accredited member of the NCPS register. I currently work internationally online operating from a range of modalities including CBT, REBT and CAT and hold a integrative approach. As a therapist I have clinical experience working with adults with a range of issues including Trauma, attachment injuries, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, gaming addictions, substance misuse, sexual abuse, domestic violence.
01446 501258 View 01446 501258
Photo of Dr Nadia Balmain, Psychologist in Marylebone, London, England
Dr Nadia Balmain
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Marylebone, London W2
Hi, I’m Dr Nadia Balmain. Thank you for taking the time to look at my profile. I am a Chartered Clinical Psychologist and an accredited EMDR Practitioner. I have provided psychotherapy for over ten years both in the NHS and in private practice. I offer therapy for many different problems, but I have a special interest in providing therapy for PTSD, complex Trauma, Anxiety and Depression. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) is the gold standard treatment for PTSD and is recommended by NICE guidelines. EMDR helps clients to process traumatic and distressing experiences which are causing the present-day symptoms.
Hi, I’m Dr Nadia Balmain. Thank you for taking the time to look at my profile. I am a Chartered Clinical Psychologist and an accredited EMDR Practitioner. I have provided psychotherapy for over ten years both in the NHS and in private practice. I offer therapy for many different problems, but I have a special interest in providing therapy for PTSD, complex Trauma, Anxiety and Depression. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) is the gold standard treatment for PTSD and is recommended by NICE guidelines. EMDR helps clients to process traumatic and distressing experiences which are causing the present-day symptoms.
01244 735026 View 01244 735026
Photo of Dr. Jason Chan, Psychologist in Marylebone, London, England
Dr. Jason Chan
Psychologist, PsychD, CPsychol
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marylebone, London W1G
A Principal Clinical Psychologist with 16 years of experience of working in and leading NHS Psychology Services, and an expert in CBT, Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Emotion-focused therapy, EMDR, Acceptance-commitment Therapy and Mindfulness approaches. I offer incisive, experiential, and highly effective treatments designed to help you overcome your distress and effect lasting changes. Seeking help is a major life step. I commit to providing a safe, professional and personalized treatment experience to sensitively support and empower you, deepen your self-understanding and create positive changes for a life that you can truly value.
A Principal Clinical Psychologist with 16 years of experience of working in and leading NHS Psychology Services, and an expert in CBT, Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Emotion-focused therapy, EMDR, Acceptance-commitment Therapy and Mindfulness approaches. I offer incisive, experiential, and highly effective treatments designed to help you overcome your distress and effect lasting changes. Seeking help is a major life step. I commit to providing a safe, professional and personalized treatment experience to sensitively support and empower you, deepen your self-understanding and create positive changes for a life that you can truly value.
020 3962 0919 View 020 3962 0919
Photo of Samantha Jayne Byron, Psychotherapist in Marylebone, London, England
Samantha Jayne Byron
Psychotherapist, BACP
Verified Verified
Marylebone, London W1G
As a clinical psychotherapist,​ I have over 10 year’s experience of working with patients and clients with many different struggles and difficulties. Trained as an integrative therapist, I work in a unique way that is based on your own individual needs. I believe that everyone is different and not every modality suits everyone. I know only too well how difficult life can be, yet uniquely different, we all suffer pain and loss in many similar ways. I feel truly humbled to work in this field and would be honoured to support you. You are not alone.
As a clinical psychotherapist,​ I have over 10 year’s experience of working with patients and clients with many different struggles and difficulties. Trained as an integrative therapist, I work in a unique way that is based on your own individual needs. I believe that everyone is different and not every modality suits everyone. I know only too well how difficult life can be, yet uniquely different, we all suffer pain and loss in many similar ways. I feel truly humbled to work in this field and would be honoured to support you. You are not alone.
020 3984 8715 View 020 3984 8715
Photo of Dr Saira Khan, Psychologist in Marylebone, London, England
Dr Saira Khan
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Marylebone, London W1G
You are worthy of living the life you want to lead. Together, we can move towards balanced mental well-being. I can support you towards managing and improving mental health challenges you face. My short-term goal for you is to help you understand your struggles and figure out how to move forward. In the long-term, I want to help you build an internal foundation for well-being and emotional healing. Attending to your mental health shouldn’t be a luxury, it’s a necessity. My purpose is to help you live a more meaningful and engaged life.
You are worthy of living the life you want to lead. Together, we can move towards balanced mental well-being. I can support you towards managing and improving mental health challenges you face. My short-term goal for you is to help you understand your struggles and figure out how to move forward. In the long-term, I want to help you build an internal foundation for well-being and emotional healing. Attending to your mental health shouldn’t be a luxury, it’s a necessity. My purpose is to help you live a more meaningful and engaged life.
020 3984 9048 View 020 3984 9048
Photo of 89a Long Lane, London Bridge Therapy Rooms in Marylebone, London, England
89a Long Lane, London Bridge Therapy Rooms
Verified Verified
Marylebone, London W1G
YOU are our ideal client, if: You are a therapist or provide face-to-face (or online) appointments for private clients. You are looking for a CENTRAL LONDON location that is AFFORDABLE and PROFESSIONALLY DESIGNED. What we offer: Four modern talking-therapy rooms, a short walk (4 to 6 minutes) away from LONDON BRIDGE and BOROUGH Underground Stations. Professionally designed as therapy rooms which you can BOOK ONLINE. Check our website for special discounts: £14 per hour, but it goes down to *£10 per hour* for long-term booking for 4 hours a week!
YOU are our ideal client, if: You are a therapist or provide face-to-face (or online) appointments for private clients. You are looking for a CENTRAL LONDON location that is AFFORDABLE and PROFESSIONALLY DESIGNED. What we offer: Four modern talking-therapy rooms, a short walk (4 to 6 minutes) away from LONDON BRIDGE and BOROUGH Underground Stations. Professionally designed as therapy rooms which you can BOOK ONLINE. Check our website for special discounts: £14 per hour, but it goes down to *£10 per hour* for long-term booking for 4 hours a week!
020 3917 4471 View 020 3917 4471
Photo of Lee Martin Mbacp(Sen Accred) Emdr(Accred) Ma Ba(Hons) Pg-Dip, Psychotherapist in Marylebone, London, England
Lee Martin Mbacp(Sen Accred) Emdr(Accred) Ma Ba(Hons) Pg-Dip
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Snr. Accred
Verified Verified
Marylebone, London W1G  (Online Only)
Hello and Welcome, Life has indeed become complex. Many of us are now struggling with our mental health in ways that are no longer manageable. Our past and present hurts, our unprocessed feelings have risen to the surface. We find ourselves thinking, feeling and acting in ways that do not reflect who we want to be. Some of us have Grief, Trauma or Addiction that we just can’t seem to work through. As a Senior Accredited Psychotherapist with a Master Degree and EMDR Accredited, I've seen thousands come through my door, with various presenting issues and undergo genuine transformation, healing and leave with hope for the future.
Hello and Welcome, Life has indeed become complex. Many of us are now struggling with our mental health in ways that are no longer manageable. Our past and present hurts, our unprocessed feelings have risen to the surface. We find ourselves thinking, feeling and acting in ways that do not reflect who we want to be. Some of us have Grief, Trauma or Addiction that we just can’t seem to work through. As a Senior Accredited Psychotherapist with a Master Degree and EMDR Accredited, I've seen thousands come through my door, with various presenting issues and undergo genuine transformation, healing and leave with hope for the future.
020 4538 6792 View 020 4538 6792
Photo of Cloud 9 for life, Psychotherapist in Marylebone, London, England
Cloud 9 for life
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Marylebone, London W1G
COUNSELLING: Hello, I'm Jayne an Accredited Member of the BACP (British Association of Counselling & Psychotherapy), I have worked to their code of ethics as an integrative counselling practitioner since qualifying in 2011. Therefore, you can trust that I will offer you a safe, supportive space where you can talk about your experiences openly, without the fear of judgement. SUPERVISION: I work with individuals in roles that require regularly giving or receiving emotionally challenging communications. I also offer REWIND THERAPY. WORKSHOPS and GROUP THERAPY along with RELAXATION, ANXIETY and ANGER MANAGEMENT SUPPORT & GROUPS.
COUNSELLING: Hello, I'm Jayne an Accredited Member of the BACP (British Association of Counselling & Psychotherapy), I have worked to their code of ethics as an integrative counselling practitioner since qualifying in 2011. Therefore, you can trust that I will offer you a safe, supportive space where you can talk about your experiences openly, without the fear of judgement. SUPERVISION: I work with individuals in roles that require regularly giving or receiving emotionally challenging communications. I also offer REWIND THERAPY. WORKSHOPS and GROUP THERAPY along with RELAXATION, ANXIETY and ANGER MANAGEMENT SUPPORT & GROUPS.
01978 807794 View 01978 807794
Photo of Nick Wakefield, Psychologist in Marylebone, London, England
Nick Wakefield
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Marylebone, London W1W
Not accepting new clients
Offering adults therapy and psychological assessment in the centre of London and online. I think that every person’s therapy journey is different. Some people need skills and coping techniques to help deal with things in their current context. For others it is important to address the underlying psychological mechanisms that give rise to the problems or symptoms at different points in life. For some it is important to address childhood origins of problems so that they can break free of repeating, destructive life patterns. I want to help people find the journey that is right for them.
Offering adults therapy and psychological assessment in the centre of London and online. I think that every person’s therapy journey is different. Some people need skills and coping techniques to help deal with things in their current context. For others it is important to address the underlying psychological mechanisms that give rise to the problems or symptoms at different points in life. For some it is important to address childhood origins of problems so that they can break free of repeating, destructive life patterns. I want to help people find the journey that is right for them.
020 8154 5412 View 020 8154 5412

See more therapy options for Marylebone, London

Dialectical Behaviour (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.