Dialectical Behaviour (DBT) Counselling in High Peak

Photo of Anya Zinkivskay, Counsellor, MRes, MBACP
Anya Zinkivskay
Counsellor, MRes, MBACP
High Peak SK22
Using Trauma-informed practice I employ evidence-based techniques such as EMDR, CBT, ERP and DBT, in conjunction with psychoeducation.
I work with individual clients and groups affected by trauma, PTSD or CPTSD (stemming from armed conflicts, physical or sexual abuse, childhood trauma), Anxiety disorders (i.e. OCD, phobias, panic attacks and GAD), neurodiverse development and function (ASD, ADHD and/or specific learning difficulties), depression, loss, bereavement and addiction.
Using Trauma-informed practice I employ evidence-based techniques such as EMDR, CBT, ERP and DBT, in conjunction with psychoeducation.
I work with individual clients and groups affected by trauma, PTSD or CPTSD (stemming from armed conflicts, physical or sexual abuse, childhood trauma), Anxiety disorders (i.e. OCD, phobias, panic attacks and GAD), neurodiverse development and function (ASD, ADHD and/or specific learning difficulties), depression, loss, bereavement and addiction.
01663 790112 View 01663 790112
Photo of Laura Mamczur, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Laura Mamczur
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Online Only
These models include Cognitive behavioural psychotherapy (CBP), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy ( DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Compassion Focussed Therapy (CFT), CBT adapted for neurodiversity and Trauma focussed CBT.
I have 22 years’ experience working within mental health services, both NHS and the private sector. I have full BABCP accreditations in Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy with specialisms in Child and Adolescent Therapy. I offer specialist psychological therapy for anxiety disorders, depression, eating difficulties, O.C.D, trauma, addiction, self-injury, sleep problems, children’s behaviour, neurodiversity for both adults and young people. All interventions offered are evidence based and recommended in the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidance.
These models include Cognitive behavioural psychotherapy (CBP), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy ( DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Compassion Focussed Therapy (CFT), CBT adapted for neurodiversity and Trauma focussed CBT.
I have 22 years’ experience working within mental health services, both NHS and the private sector. I have full BABCP accreditations in Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy with specialisms in Child and Adolescent Therapy. I offer specialist psychological therapy for anxiety disorders, depression, eating difficulties, O.C.D, trauma, addiction, self-injury, sleep problems, children’s behaviour, neurodiversity for both adults and young people. All interventions offered are evidence based and recommended in the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidance.
01298 605114 View 01298 605114
Photo of Jeanette Claire Groombridge - Peakland Therapy, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Peakland Therapy
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Hi, my name is Jeanette. Life can be challenging, difficult & stressful at times, affecting how we feel emotionally. We can become anxious, worried, stressed, depressed or just generally feel overwhelmed. In order to manage how we are feeling, we can develop unhelpful thinking & behaviours which can hinder our growth, leading to us becoming stuck in vicious cycles. By understanding & recognising our unhelpful thinking & behaviours we can start to look at ways to modify these to improve how we feel. Therapy can help you gain control over thoughts & behaviours; develop healthier coping strategies; build self-confidence & resilience.
Hi, my name is Jeanette. Life can be challenging, difficult & stressful at times, affecting how we feel emotionally. We can become anxious, worried, stressed, depressed or just generally feel overwhelmed. In order to manage how we are feeling, we can develop unhelpful thinking & behaviours which can hinder our growth, leading to us becoming stuck in vicious cycles. By understanding & recognising our unhelpful thinking & behaviours we can start to look at ways to modify these to improve how we feel. Therapy can help you gain control over thoughts & behaviours; develop healthier coping strategies; build self-confidence & resilience.
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Photo of Clair Callister, Psychotherapist, MA, MBABCP
Clair Callister
Psychotherapist, MA, MBABCP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello, I’m Clair – a qualified and accredited Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist with many years of experience. Working alongside you, I can help with meaningful, lasting change at a pace that feels right. I offer thorough assessment and evidence-based therapy for depression, anxiety (including worry, phobias, social and health anxiety), OCD, PTSD and trauma. I also support people navigating neurodiversity and long-term health conditions, adapting therapy to suit autism, ADHD and sensory needs so it feels accessible, supportive and genuinely helpful.
Hello, I’m Clair – a qualified and accredited Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist with many years of experience. Working alongside you, I can help with meaningful, lasting change at a pace that feels right. I offer thorough assessment and evidence-based therapy for depression, anxiety (including worry, phobias, social and health anxiety), OCD, PTSD and trauma. I also support people navigating neurodiversity and long-term health conditions, adapting therapy to suit autism, ADHD and sensory needs so it feels accessible, supportive and genuinely helpful.
0161 524 4154 View 0161 524 4154

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Heather Howard-Thompson, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Heather Howard-Thompson
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
I am an accredited Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist, EMDR and DBT Practitioner.
I work with a range of conditions including stress, depression, anxiety disorders; trauma and PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), GAD (Generalised Anxiety Disorder), OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder), Panic Disorder, BPD (Borderline Personality Disorder), Social Anxiety, Health Anxiety, relationship problems, work related issues etc.
I am an accredited Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist, EMDR and DBT Practitioner.
I work with a range of conditions including stress, depression, anxiety disorders; trauma and PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), GAD (Generalised Anxiety Disorder), OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder), Panic Disorder, BPD (Borderline Personality Disorder), Social Anxiety, Health Anxiety, relationship problems, work related issues etc.
01226 337525 View 01226 337525
Photo of Lynsey Corner - The Therapy Corner , Psychotherapist, MBABCP
The Therapy Corner
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Online Only
Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, trauma or low mood? I offer warm, evidence based therapy to help children, teens, and adults feel calmer, more confident, and back in control. Online sessions available across the UK. Is your child struggling with anxiety, school avoidance, low mood, or emotional outburst? As a parent i know this can be exhausting and worrying not knowing how best to help. With over 20 years experience supporting, children and young people with ages appropriate practical therapy that helps young people understand emotions, and build coping skills. I also work closely with parents.
Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, trauma or low mood? I offer warm, evidence based therapy to help children, teens, and adults feel calmer, more confident, and back in control. Online sessions available across the UK. Is your child struggling with anxiety, school avoidance, low mood, or emotional outburst? As a parent i know this can be exhausting and worrying not knowing how best to help. With over 20 years experience supporting, children and young people with ages appropriate practical therapy that helps young people understand emotions, and build coping skills. I also work closely with parents.
0151 453 4604 View 0151 453 4604
Photo of Ben Michael Roper - Ben Roper Psychotherapy, Counsellor, BACP
Ben Roper Psychotherapy
Counsellor, BACP
Online Only
I also hold knowledge of DBT, as well as Internal Family Systems.
You might look like you’re coping... high-functioning, thoughtful, maybe even successful on the outside. But inside, something doesn’t feel quite right. You second-guess yourself. You try hard to be good, perfect, liked. You feel like you have to earn your place, and the fear of getting it wrong never quite leaves. You’re exhausted, and no one sees it. Beneath it all, you suspect the real struggle might be deeper. Shame, maybe? Even if you wouldn’t use that word, you know what it’s like to feel not good enough. If that sounds familiar, we can start there.
I also hold knowledge of DBT, as well as Internal Family Systems.
You might look like you’re coping... high-functioning, thoughtful, maybe even successful on the outside. But inside, something doesn’t feel quite right. You second-guess yourself. You try hard to be good, perfect, liked. You feel like you have to earn your place, and the fear of getting it wrong never quite leaves. You’re exhausted, and no one sees it. Beneath it all, you suspect the real struggle might be deeper. Shame, maybe? Even if you wouldn’t use that word, you know what it’s like to feel not good enough. If that sounds familiar, we can start there.
01623 701290 View 01623 701290
Photo of Caroline Reed, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Caroline Reed
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Online Only
When we are struggling and in pain, the need to be heard, understood, to be appreciated and valued and to feel safe is crucial to our healing. I have over 25 years experience working with families, couples, individuals, children & groups with mental health concerns and/or addictions and specialize in trauma. I work collaboratively alongside you, providing guidance on your journey towards healing. You know your strengths, areas for personal growth & your feelings. I know how the mind works, about how to push through barriers that hold you back, about recovery & healing. Together we will embark on a journey that is beneficial to you.
When we are struggling and in pain, the need to be heard, understood, to be appreciated and valued and to feel safe is crucial to our healing. I have over 25 years experience working with families, couples, individuals, children & groups with mental health concerns and/or addictions and specialize in trauma. I work collaboratively alongside you, providing guidance on your journey towards healing. You know your strengths, areas for personal growth & your feelings. I know how the mind works, about how to push through barriers that hold you back, about recovery & healing. Together we will embark on a journey that is beneficial to you.
0161 524 1294 View 0161 524 1294
Photo of Talia Pollick, Counsellor, MBACP
Talia Pollick
Counsellor, MBACP
2 Endorsed
Hi, I'm Talia! I am a qualified Integrative Counsellor & founder of The Cedar Counselling Clinic, based in Manchester and Cheshire. My goal is to provide specialist and tailored support to improve your overall mental health & wellbeing. As an Integrative Counsellor, I combine CBT, Psychodynamic, and Humanistic Approaches to help clients feel empowered, recognise their worth, and navigate life's complexities in a safe and nurturing space.​​​ Whether you're facing challenging times, seeking personal growth, or navigating various life transitions, my goal is to de-stigmatise mental health an ensure clients make themselves a priority.
Hi, I'm Talia! I am a qualified Integrative Counsellor & founder of The Cedar Counselling Clinic, based in Manchester and Cheshire. My goal is to provide specialist and tailored support to improve your overall mental health & wellbeing. As an Integrative Counsellor, I combine CBT, Psychodynamic, and Humanistic Approaches to help clients feel empowered, recognise their worth, and navigate life's complexities in a safe and nurturing space.​​​ Whether you're facing challenging times, seeking personal growth, or navigating various life transitions, my goal is to de-stigmatise mental health an ensure clients make themselves a priority.
0161 524 1525 View 0161 524 1525
Photo of Ch'maine Charlotte Ann Robinson - Calming Minds Soothing Souls Therapies MBACP, Psychotherapist, PNCPS Acc.
Calming Minds Soothing Souls Therapies MBACP
Psychotherapist, PNCPS Acc.
1 Endorsed
Therapy brings clarity, helping you make effective decisions and positive changes in thoughts, attitudes, and behaviours. It's not about advice giving but creating space to talk, explore, and reach your own realisations. The goal is to feel more equipped to make choices and move forward with confidence and wellbeing. Hypnotherapy & mindfulness can be introduced as a type of complementary therapy—hypnosis promotes focus and openness to positive change, while mindfulness helps keep you grounded in the present.
Therapy brings clarity, helping you make effective decisions and positive changes in thoughts, attitudes, and behaviours. It's not about advice giving but creating space to talk, explore, and reach your own realisations. The goal is to feel more equipped to make choices and move forward with confidence and wellbeing. Hypnotherapy & mindfulness can be introduced as a type of complementary therapy—hypnosis promotes focus and openness to positive change, while mindfulness helps keep you grounded in the present.
0161 850 4018 View 0161 850 4018
Photo of James william edward Whitlam, MSc
James william edward Whitlam
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Hi, I am a practicing addiction coach/therapist with years of lived experience within addiction. I have worked and lived in addiction centres across the north and helped many open up about addiction and how to look at better ways of recovery and to lead happier lives. There is a way. Connection and corrective experiences whilst acknowledging and looking at family systems and experiences during childhood go a long way to understanding why we find ourselves addicted to substances. My approach, although guided by the ethical framework of the BACP, will be based on lived experience as well as academic evidence.
Hi, I am a practicing addiction coach/therapist with years of lived experience within addiction. I have worked and lived in addiction centres across the north and helped many open up about addiction and how to look at better ways of recovery and to lead happier lives. There is a way. Connection and corrective experiences whilst acknowledging and looking at family systems and experiences during childhood go a long way to understanding why we find ourselves addicted to substances. My approach, although guided by the ethical framework of the BACP, will be based on lived experience as well as academic evidence.
01704 795575 View 01704 795575
Photo of Amy Cantwell - Kind Mind Neurodiversity Services, Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Kind Mind Neurodiversity Services
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
We offer a range of therapeutic interventions including Eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy ( DBT), Compassion Focussed Therapy (CFT) and person-centred therapy.
We offer Autism and ADHD assessments. We also explore other possible diagnosis' in order to gain a fuller understanding of you or your child's presenting concerns. This service is provided by HCPC Registered practitioner Psychologists; Dr Amy Cantwell and Dr Amy Needham who both have many years experience of working with neurodiversity and use a neuro-affirmative approach to assessment and therapy. Therapy can involve post-diagnostic counselling, or you may already have a diagnosis of Autism and/or ADHD and may want therapy. We offer evidence based therapy and we can adapt our approach to your individual needs.
We offer a range of therapeutic interventions including Eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy ( DBT), Compassion Focussed Therapy (CFT) and person-centred therapy.
We offer Autism and ADHD assessments. We also explore other possible diagnosis' in order to gain a fuller understanding of you or your child's presenting concerns. This service is provided by HCPC Registered practitioner Psychologists; Dr Amy Cantwell and Dr Amy Needham who both have many years experience of working with neurodiversity and use a neuro-affirmative approach to assessment and therapy. Therapy can involve post-diagnostic counselling, or you may already have a diagnosis of Autism and/or ADHD and may want therapy. We offer evidence based therapy and we can adapt our approach to your individual needs.
01709 212775 View 01709 212775
Photo of Alison Moore, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Alison Moore
Psychotherapist, MBACP
2 Endorsed
Bolton BL1
If life has been feeling overwhelming, confusing, or heavier than it should, you’re not alone. You might be noticing that your thoughts or emotions are starting to affect your day-to-day life—perhaps things feel stuck, hard to make sense of, or difficult to manage as they once were. I offer therapy in Bolton, Greater Manchester, and online, providing a compassionate, friendly place where you can be yourself, feel respected, and be free from judgment. I work collaboratively, which means we approach things together, at a pace that feels comfortable for you.
If life has been feeling overwhelming, confusing, or heavier than it should, you’re not alone. You might be noticing that your thoughts or emotions are starting to affect your day-to-day life—perhaps things feel stuck, hard to make sense of, or difficult to manage as they once were. I offer therapy in Bolton, Greater Manchester, and online, providing a compassionate, friendly place where you can be yourself, feel respected, and be free from judgment. I work collaboratively, which means we approach things together, at a pace that feels comfortable for you.
07849 033453 View 07849 033453
Photo of Harris Papachristopoulos - The Life Academy, Psychotherapist, PsychD, MBACP
The Life Academy
Psychotherapist, PsychD, MBACP
Serves Area
Hello, I am Harris and I can help you to heal and flourish. I am aPsychologist, Psychotherapist and Philosophical Counsellor, working with individuals and couples both in person (in Edinburgh) or onine I use a holistic psychotherapeutic approach, which means I combine tools and knowledge gained from across many different psychotherapies to develop a programme that is uniquely tailored to you and your specific needs.Through a collaborative, creative and integrative approach, I will work with you, drawing on my extensive knowledge of wide range of effective psychotherapies.
Hello, I am Harris and I can help you to heal and flourish. I am aPsychologist, Psychotherapist and Philosophical Counsellor, working with individuals and couples both in person (in Edinburgh) or onine I use a holistic psychotherapeutic approach, which means I combine tools and knowledge gained from across many different psychotherapies to develop a programme that is uniquely tailored to you and your specific needs.Through a collaborative, creative and integrative approach, I will work with you, drawing on my extensive knowledge of wide range of effective psychotherapies.
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Photo of Judit Szilagyi, Psychologist, MA, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Judit Szilagyi
Psychologist, MA, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Serves Area
As an EMDR & CBT & DBT practitioner I can help you with PTSD, complex PTSD, anxiety disorder, OCD, and addictions. Do not shy away if you have been diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder. I offer online sessions on Mondays and in-person appointments on odd Fridays in Lancaster, near M6&A6.
As an EMDR & CBT & DBT practitioner I can help you with PTSD, complex PTSD, anxiety disorder, OCD, and addictions. Do not shy away if you have been diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder. I offer online sessions on Mondays and in-person appointments on odd Fridays in Lancaster, near M6&A6.
01524 938728 View 01524 938728
Photo of Simon Lewis, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Simon Lewis
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I tend to use a carefully crafted mix of the following approaches: EMDR, CBT, CFT, CAT, DBT, Systemic Theory, Internal Family Systems and Psychodynamic concepts.
I am passionate about trauma informed practice: making every effort to understand the impact of people’s lived experiences on their daily lives. My approach is based on psychological formulation, to make sense of what a person is experiencing, and then using a range of integrated approaches to help people to make changes. I care about empowering individuals to live the lives they want to live, and take a very human and empathic approach to working with people's distress.
I tend to use a carefully crafted mix of the following approaches: EMDR, CBT, CFT, CAT, DBT, Systemic Theory, Internal Family Systems and Psychodynamic concepts.
I am passionate about trauma informed practice: making every effort to understand the impact of people’s lived experiences on their daily lives. My approach is based on psychological formulation, to make sense of what a person is experiencing, and then using a range of integrated approaches to help people to make changes. I care about empowering individuals to live the lives they want to live, and take a very human and empathic approach to working with people's distress.
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Photo of Dr Rebecca Szlachcic, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Rebecca Szlachcic
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Serves Area
I am also an Accredited DBT Therapist, an evidence based intervention for individuals who have difficulties with emotion regulation and may use unhelpful behaviours to cope (e.g. self harm, violence, drugs and alcohol, etc).
I am an experienced HCPC Registered Clinical Psychologist working in the NHS and in the private sector. I am a trauma informed therapist, recognising that many people are trying their best to cope and live with the difficult life experiences they have been through. I understand the importance of the therapeutic relationship in finding a ‘good fit’ with a therapist. I enjoy working collaboratively and creatively with individuals and have experience in working with people with mild to severe mental health difficulties including anxiety, depression, PTSD, psychosis and personality difficulties.
I am also an Accredited DBT Therapist, an evidence based intervention for individuals who have difficulties with emotion regulation and may use unhelpful behaviours to cope (e.g. self harm, violence, drugs and alcohol, etc).
I am an experienced HCPC Registered Clinical Psychologist working in the NHS and in the private sector. I am a trauma informed therapist, recognising that many people are trying their best to cope and live with the difficult life experiences they have been through. I understand the importance of the therapeutic relationship in finding a ‘good fit’ with a therapist. I enjoy working collaboratively and creatively with individuals and have experience in working with people with mild to severe mental health difficulties including anxiety, depression, PTSD, psychosis and personality difficulties.
0113 467 9507 View 0113 467 9507
Photo of Dr Jonathan O’Keeffe - Dr Jonathan O'Keeffe - Clinical Psychologist, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Jonathan O'Keeffe - Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Online Only
Hi, I’m Jonathan. As a Clinical Psychologist I can help if you're struggling with stress, low mood, anxiety, panic, feelings of shame, low self‑esteem, and more. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected from your sense of purpose, I provide a compassionate space to explore this and support you towards meaningful change. Whether you're navigating relationship difficulties, grappling with identity, sexuality, or aspects of neurodiversity such as ADHD and autism - we can work to make sense and overcome issues. As a foster carer, I also bring unique insight into the emotional impact of fostering and adoption.
Hi, I’m Jonathan. As a Clinical Psychologist I can help if you're struggling with stress, low mood, anxiety, panic, feelings of shame, low self‑esteem, and more. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected from your sense of purpose, I provide a compassionate space to explore this and support you towards meaningful change. Whether you're navigating relationship difficulties, grappling with identity, sexuality, or aspects of neurodiversity such as ADHD and autism - we can work to make sense and overcome issues. As a foster carer, I also bring unique insight into the emotional impact of fostering and adoption.
01223 912709 View 01223 912709
Photo of Lucy Wheen, Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Lucy Wheen
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
I use a range of approaches including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy ( DBT), attachment and trauma-informed practice.
Hello, I am a Counselling Psychologist and provide specialist support for children, young people, adults, and families who are experiencing difficulties with their mental health, emotional wellbeing, or relationships. I support people with a wide range of difficulties, including anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, low self-esteem, attachment and relationship difficulties, and the impact of adverse life experiences. I also have a specialist interest in neurodiversity and provide autism assessments and post-diagnostic support that is affirming, collaborative, and tailored to each individual and their family.
I use a range of approaches including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy ( DBT), attachment and trauma-informed practice.
Hello, I am a Counselling Psychologist and provide specialist support for children, young people, adults, and families who are experiencing difficulties with their mental health, emotional wellbeing, or relationships. I support people with a wide range of difficulties, including anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, low self-esteem, attachment and relationship difficulties, and the impact of adverse life experiences. I also have a specialist interest in neurodiversity and provide autism assessments and post-diagnostic support that is affirming, collaborative, and tailored to each individual and their family.
0114 697 5158 View 0114 697 5158
Photo of Dr Anna Maciak, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Dr Anna Maciak
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Online Only
I have worked in the NHS for over 8 years and as a qualified Counselling Psychologist since 2023 I use a range of approaches (including Psychodynamic, EMDR, CFT, ACT, CBT and DBT).
Hello and Welcome! My name is Anna, and I am an HCPC-registered Counselling Psychologist specialising in working with individuals affected by cancer, chronic illness, and trauma. I offer weekly online sessions tailored to your unique needs, in both Polish and English. I believe strongly in the connection between physical health and mental well-being. If you’re dealing with pain or health-related concerns, I understand how deeply these issues can impact your emotional state. I also work with individuals experiencing burnout, work-related stress, and those navigating the complexities of living as an expat.
I have worked in the NHS for over 8 years and as a qualified Counselling Psychologist since 2023 I use a range of approaches (including Psychodynamic, EMDR, CFT, ACT, CBT and DBT).
Hello and Welcome! My name is Anna, and I am an HCPC-registered Counselling Psychologist specialising in working with individuals affected by cancer, chronic illness, and trauma. I offer weekly online sessions tailored to your unique needs, in both Polish and English. I believe strongly in the connection between physical health and mental well-being. If you’re dealing with pain or health-related concerns, I understand how deeply these issues can impact your emotional state. I also work with individuals experiencing burnout, work-related stress, and those navigating the complexities of living as an expat.
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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.