Dialectical Behaviour (DBT) Counselling in Saint Leonards, NSW

Photo of Jane Turner, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Jane Turner
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Saint Leonards, NSW 2065
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Narrative Therapy and MI.
Sometimes life can feel overwhelming and it can be difficult to see a way forward. We often spend our time ruminating on things we did or that happened to us in the past or we may spend time worrying about things that have yet to happen. This can prevent us from living as fully as possible. Engaging in therapy with a psychologist can offer fresh perspectives and equip you with valuable tools to navigate uncomfortable thoughts and feelings. I am a registered psychologist with a warm, empathic, and curious manner, who aims to collaborate with my clients to provide person-centered, evidence-based and trauma informed treatment.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Narrative Therapy and MI.
Sometimes life can feel overwhelming and it can be difficult to see a way forward. We often spend our time ruminating on things we did or that happened to us in the past or we may spend time worrying about things that have yet to happen. This can prevent us from living as fully as possible. Engaging in therapy with a psychologist can offer fresh perspectives and equip you with valuable tools to navigate uncomfortable thoughts and feelings. I am a registered psychologist with a warm, empathic, and curious manner, who aims to collaborate with my clients to provide person-centered, evidence-based and trauma informed treatment.
(02) 7804 4334 View (02) 7804 4334
Photo of Sanchana Venkatesh, MPsych, PsyBA - Ed. Psych., Psychologist
Sanchana Venkatesh
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Ed. Psych.
Verified Verified
Saint Leonards, NSW 2065
I am trained in and use evidence-based therapies including CBT, ACT, DBT and compassion-focussed approaches.
I have a special interest in working with adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, imposter syndrome, depression, chronic health issues, grief and loss, life transitions (e.g. career, stage of life, migration), PTSD, OCD, tics and Tourettes. I am passionate about helping individuals live a life worth living based on their values. Some populations I particularly enjoy working with include people of colour, gifted individuals, young women, and creatives. In addition to providing individual therapy, I have a keen interest in cognitive assessments to identify gifted abilities or learning disabilities.
I am trained in and use evidence-based therapies including CBT, ACT, DBT and compassion-focussed approaches.
I have a special interest in working with adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, imposter syndrome, depression, chronic health issues, grief and loss, life transitions (e.g. career, stage of life, migration), PTSD, OCD, tics and Tourettes. I am passionate about helping individuals live a life worth living based on their values. Some populations I particularly enjoy working with include people of colour, gifted individuals, young women, and creatives. In addition to providing individual therapy, I have a keen interest in cognitive assessments to identify gifted abilities or learning disabilities.
(02) 9100 0086 View (02) 9100 0086
Photo of Adam Horvath, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Adam Horvath
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Leonards, NSW 2065
I received specialised training in CBT, DBT, ABFT, EFT, and serve as a Lifeline crisis supporter.
Hello, I'm Adam, a Psychologist in North Sydney, trained in Clinical Psychology. I help professionals, adolescents, families, and couples manage emotional challenges. My philosophy is that therapy should lead to real changes efficiently, and I will help you to meet your goals with a straightforward and friendly approach. In our sessions, we’ll use practical, science-tested methods to work through issues you might face, such as difficulty with managing emotions, feelings of sadness or worry, or times when you might feel stuck. My practice is about creating a supportive and inclusive environment for everyone.
I received specialised training in CBT, DBT, ABFT, EFT, and serve as a Lifeline crisis supporter.
Hello, I'm Adam, a Psychologist in North Sydney, trained in Clinical Psychology. I help professionals, adolescents, families, and couples manage emotional challenges. My philosophy is that therapy should lead to real changes efficiently, and I will help you to meet your goals with a straightforward and friendly approach. In our sessions, we’ll use practical, science-tested methods to work through issues you might face, such as difficulty with managing emotions, feelings of sadness or worry, or times when you might feel stuck. My practice is about creating a supportive and inclusive environment for everyone.
(02) 9100 0498 View (02) 9100 0498
Photo of Pua Johnston, Counsellor
Pua Johnston
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Saint Leonards, NSW 2065
I have acquired training in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and Schema Therapy, offering a comprehensive approach to address a wide range of mental health issues.
Welcome to my counselling practice. My name is Pua Johnston, and I am a registered member of the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA). With a commitment to providing compassionate and effective therapeutic support, I bring a diverse set of skills and training to our sessions. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, or complex emotional patterns, I am here to support you on your journey towards healing and personal growth.
I have acquired training in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and Schema Therapy, offering a comprehensive approach to address a wide range of mental health issues.
Welcome to my counselling practice. My name is Pua Johnston, and I am a registered member of the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA). With a commitment to providing compassionate and effective therapeutic support, I bring a diverse set of skills and training to our sessions. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, or complex emotional patterns, I am here to support you on your journey towards healing and personal growth.
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Photo of Kurt Bayly, MA, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Kurt Bayly
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Leonards, NSW 2065
I have training in a number of therapies: EMDR, IFS, ACT, DBT, CBT & Mindfulness.
My goal in therapy is to create a safe, confidential space where you are able to talk openly about your life, without feeling judged. As your therapist, I will give you the time and care to really understand where you are coming from and give you constructive feedback that empowers you to set realistic goals, make appropriate changes and have strong, genuine relationships. In three words I am kind, honest, attuned.
I have training in a number of therapies: EMDR, IFS, ACT, DBT, CBT & Mindfulness.
My goal in therapy is to create a safe, confidential space where you are able to talk openly about your life, without feeling judged. As your therapist, I will give you the time and care to really understand where you are coming from and give you constructive feedback that empowers you to set realistic goals, make appropriate changes and have strong, genuine relationships. In three words I am kind, honest, attuned.
(02) 9100 0328 View (02) 9100 0328
Photo of Dr Pauline Hall, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Dr Pauline Hall
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Saint Leonards, NSW 2065
Dr. Hall is a clinical psychologist working with people from different cultural backgrounds. She is now seeing clients from Australia, the United Kingdom, Germany, Hong Kong, Macau, Thailand, and Vietnam. She practices evidence-based assessment and treatment for developmental disorders in children, teenagers, and adults (e.g., Intellectual Disability, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Autism, etc.) with mood disorders, anxiety, and cognitive disorders. Dr. Hall has been worked in various areas, including schools, hospitals, community health services courts, businesses, and private practices.
Dr. Hall is a clinical psychologist working with people from different cultural backgrounds. She is now seeing clients from Australia, the United Kingdom, Germany, Hong Kong, Macau, Thailand, and Vietnam. She practices evidence-based assessment and treatment for developmental disorders in children, teenagers, and adults (e.g., Intellectual Disability, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Autism, etc.) with mood disorders, anxiety, and cognitive disorders. Dr. Hall has been worked in various areas, including schools, hospitals, community health services courts, businesses, and private practices.
(02) 9411 7837 View (02) 9411 7837
Photo of Janet Yap, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Janet Yap
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Saint Leonards, NSW 2065
I am a clinical psychologist with over 15 years experience in supporting adults on their mental health journey. I have expertise in working with people who are experiencing challenges in coping with the stress of everyday life - whether that is in managing difficult relationships, parenting, work-related stress or general burnout and anxiety. I am also passionate about helping people break free from childhood and family dysfunction that has impacted on their capacity to live full and meaningful lives. I have particular expertise in treating adults with emotion dysregulation and unhelpful coping behaviours.
I am a clinical psychologist with over 15 years experience in supporting adults on their mental health journey. I have expertise in working with people who are experiencing challenges in coping with the stress of everyday life - whether that is in managing difficult relationships, parenting, work-related stress or general burnout and anxiety. I am also passionate about helping people break free from childhood and family dysfunction that has impacted on their capacity to live full and meaningful lives. I have particular expertise in treating adults with emotion dysregulation and unhelpful coping behaviours.
(02) 9100 0565 View (02) 9100 0565
Photo of Dr Rosemary Allen, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Dr Rosemary Allen
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Saint Leonards, NSW 2065
Rosemary has experience working with individuals of all ages & stages. She has worked in various clinical settings, including inpatient & outpatient hospital settings, forensic facilities, military settings, private practice and in the community. Stemming from her doctoral research and experience working in trauma settings, she has a strong interest in trauma and takes a trauma-informed approach to her practice. She collaborates with her clients to develop the best evidence based treatment plan for your needs, working from an integrative therapeutic approach. See below the treatment modalities Rosemary offers to her clients.
Rosemary has experience working with individuals of all ages & stages. She has worked in various clinical settings, including inpatient & outpatient hospital settings, forensic facilities, military settings, private practice and in the community. Stemming from her doctoral research and experience working in trauma settings, she has a strong interest in trauma and takes a trauma-informed approach to her practice. She collaborates with her clients to develop the best evidence based treatment plan for your needs, working from an integrative therapeutic approach. See below the treatment modalities Rosemary offers to her clients.
(02) 9159 6836 View (02) 9159 6836
Photo of Alan Geoffrey Stokes, PACFA, Counsellor
Alan Geoffrey Stokes
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Saint Leonards, NSW 2065
Appointments available now! Taking new patients. I can help because we all lose our way at times. Forget who we are. Lose touch with what makes us strong and our life worthwhile. Perhaps it’s time to find yourself again. I am a qualified therapist, mental health trainer and crisis supporter. I will listen, support and guide you when you want. You decide how. You might like to meet at my Balmain or St Leonard's rooms, online, or at a beach or park near you.
Appointments available now! Taking new patients. I can help because we all lose our way at times. Forget who we are. Lose touch with what makes us strong and our life worthwhile. Perhaps it’s time to find yourself again. I am a qualified therapist, mental health trainer and crisis supporter. I will listen, support and guide you when you want. You decide how. You might like to meet at my Balmain or St Leonard's rooms, online, or at a beach or park near you.
(02) 9100 0904 View (02) 9100 0904
Photo of Jennifer Rathjen, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Jennifer Rathjen
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Saint Leonards, NSW 2065  (Online Only)
I am a Clinical Psychologist with a wide range of experience. I primarily utilise enhanced Cognitive Behavioural Therapy to allow individuals to learn the skills needed to manage emotional distress, strengthen their ability to cope with future challenges and achieve personal, relationship and professional life goals. Additionally I offer longer term psychotherapy for more complex issues.
I am a Clinical Psychologist with a wide range of experience. I primarily utilise enhanced Cognitive Behavioural Therapy to allow individuals to learn the skills needed to manage emotional distress, strengthen their ability to cope with future challenges and achieve personal, relationship and professional life goals. Additionally I offer longer term psychotherapy for more complex issues.
(02) 9100 0650 View (02) 9100 0650
Photo of Larissa Kirpichnikov, PsyBA - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Larissa Kirpichnikov
Psychologist, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Saint Leonards, NSW 2065
Couples Therapy & Coaching / Individuals Therapy & Coaching / Family Dispute Resolution Mediation (FDRP) & Divorce Coaching Services. With more than 25 years experience of living and working in Australia and abroad, Larissa understands that life and relationships are not always smooth. Whether you are wishing to improve your intimate relationship, seek individual support, parenting &/or financial FDR mediation services, or divorce coaching, please call to discuss how we can best assist you. You may also visit our website for further information.
Couples Therapy & Coaching / Individuals Therapy & Coaching / Family Dispute Resolution Mediation (FDRP) & Divorce Coaching Services. With more than 25 years experience of living and working in Australia and abroad, Larissa understands that life and relationships are not always smooth. Whether you are wishing to improve your intimate relationship, seek individual support, parenting &/or financial FDR mediation services, or divorce coaching, please call to discuss how we can best assist you. You may also visit our website for further information.
(02) 9100 0410 View (02) 9100 0410
Photo of Werner Teichert, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Werner Teichert
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Saint Leonards, NSW 2065
Werner Teichert obtained his Master in Clinical Psychology degree (Cum Laude) from the University of South Africa and has also completed a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree with The University of Reading. He is a full Member of the Australian Psychological Society (MAPS) and a Fellow of the APS College of Clinical Psychologists (FCCLIN). Werner’s passion is providing shorter term, evidence-informed, value-based care to patients. His therapeutic approach is collaborative and the focus is on reaching shared goals.
Werner Teichert obtained his Master in Clinical Psychology degree (Cum Laude) from the University of South Africa and has also completed a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree with The University of Reading. He is a full Member of the Australian Psychological Society (MAPS) and a Fellow of the APS College of Clinical Psychologists (FCCLIN). Werner’s passion is providing shorter term, evidence-informed, value-based care to patients. His therapeutic approach is collaborative and the focus is on reaching shared goals.
(02) 4077 2914 View (02) 4077 2914
Photo of Anna Sheppard, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Anna Sheppard
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Saint Leonards, NSW 2065
I offer down-to-earth, evidence-based counselling and psychotherapy for teenagers and adults struggling with anxiety or stress. I help my clients understand and manage the fears, anxieties or negative self-beliefs that hold them back from living the life they hope for. Do you wish you were only more confident so you could do the things you really want to? You might be dreading facing school/uni/work every day. Or you might be dealing with difficult feelings around family separation or conflict, relocation, or have other deeper worries that you find difficult to talk through with your closest friends and family.
I offer down-to-earth, evidence-based counselling and psychotherapy for teenagers and adults struggling with anxiety or stress. I help my clients understand and manage the fears, anxieties or negative self-beliefs that hold them back from living the life they hope for. Do you wish you were only more confident so you could do the things you really want to? You might be dreading facing school/uni/work every day. Or you might be dealing with difficult feelings around family separation or conflict, relocation, or have other deeper worries that you find difficult to talk through with your closest friends and family.
(02) 9100 0020 View (02) 9100 0020
Photo of Patrick Eid, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Patrick Eid
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Saint Leonards, NSW 2065
Hi, my name is Patrick and I cannot tell you how excited I am to be able to provide you with this service. As a Queer person from a CALD background who grew up in a conservative community with a high stigma around mental health illness, I understand what it is like to develop and live with poor mental health as a result of systemic concerns. Throughout my personal and professional life, I’ve always found it difficult to find a service that holistically caters to the mental health of people that live in complex systems (e.g., accounting for racial injustice, systemic oppression, complex trauma, and the patriarchy… to name a few).
Hi, my name is Patrick and I cannot tell you how excited I am to be able to provide you with this service. As a Queer person from a CALD background who grew up in a conservative community with a high stigma around mental health illness, I understand what it is like to develop and live with poor mental health as a result of systemic concerns. Throughout my personal and professional life, I’ve always found it difficult to find a service that holistically caters to the mental health of people that live in complex systems (e.g., accounting for racial injustice, systemic oppression, complex trauma, and the patriarchy… to name a few).
(02) 8322 9090 View (02) 8322 9090
Photo of Tara Jane King, Counsellor
Tara Jane King
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Saint Leonards, NSW 2065  (Online Only)
I am an open and warm Counsellor who works with motivated adults with a range of presenting issues such as anxiety, depression, disordered eating, body image, addiction, adjusting to stressful events, burnout and finding meaning and purpose. I have particular interest in exploring how earlier experiences of life can affect current difficulties with emotion regulation, communication, mood, motivation, self-esteem and relationships with self and others.
I am an open and warm Counsellor who works with motivated adults with a range of presenting issues such as anxiety, depression, disordered eating, body image, addiction, adjusting to stressful events, burnout and finding meaning and purpose. I have particular interest in exploring how earlier experiences of life can affect current difficulties with emotion regulation, communication, mood, motivation, self-esteem and relationships with self and others.
(02) 8403 1140 View (02) 8403 1140

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Claire Hurwitz, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Claire Hurwitz
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Willoughby, NSW 2068
I draw from a range of evidence-based modalities, including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Schema Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Mindfulness-based therapies, and ACT.
As a Clinical Psychologist, I strive to create a space where my clients feel safe, supported, and able to speak freely without fear of judgement. I would describe myself as a warm, empathic, and understanding with a passion for providing client-centered care. I have experience working with individuals across the life-span experiencing various mental health difficulties in a variety of clinical settings, including private practice, in-patient hospital, schools, and university clinics. I currently work with adolescents, young adults, and adults.
I draw from a range of evidence-based modalities, including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Schema Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Mindfulness-based therapies, and ACT.
As a Clinical Psychologist, I strive to create a space where my clients feel safe, supported, and able to speak freely without fear of judgement. I would describe myself as a warm, empathic, and understanding with a passion for providing client-centered care. I have experience working with individuals across the life-span experiencing various mental health difficulties in a variety of clinical settings, including private practice, in-patient hospital, schools, and university clinics. I currently work with adolescents, young adults, and adults.
(02) 9538 7061 View (02) 9538 7061
Photo of Sarah Bays, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Sarah Bays
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Crows Nest, NSW 2065
Want to create the life you want and reach your potential? Could you do with a little help to solve your problems? Need some support to fast track some of your goals? Well that's what I'm all about! I'm an experienced counsellor and psychotherapist and I work from a trauma-informed and client-led perspective. I'm kind but direct when needed, and support in a solutions focused manner. I love to laugh, and enjoy helping people work through challenges and achieve their goals. I'm a certified DBT (Dialectical Behaviour Therapy) practitioner and run DBT Skills groups or individual DBT sessions in person & online.
Want to create the life you want and reach your potential? Could you do with a little help to solve your problems? Need some support to fast track some of your goals? Well that's what I'm all about! I'm an experienced counsellor and psychotherapist and I work from a trauma-informed and client-led perspective. I'm kind but direct when needed, and support in a solutions focused manner. I love to laugh, and enjoy helping people work through challenges and achieve their goals. I'm a certified DBT (Dialectical Behaviour Therapy) practitioner and run DBT Skills groups or individual DBT sessions in person & online.
(02) 9100 0134 View (02) 9100 0134
Photo of Georgia J MacNevin, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Georgia J MacNevin
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mosman, NSW 2088
I works with a broad range of approaches including Internal Family System (IFS), Somatic Experiencing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), trauma-focused Therapies, Mindfulness, Attachment Theory, Systemic Family Therapy, and psychodynamic models.
I’m a warm, compassionate, and open-hearted Clinical Psychologist with 9 years experience in private practice. I believe in creating a collaborative, sustainable relationship with clients in order to help people feel safe to open up, overcome their struggles and create a rich, full, meaningful life. My work honours individuals unique experiences and innate capacity to heal, resourcing clients with a range of evidence based modalities. I work with a broad range of concerns including anxiety and panic attacks, stress management, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), complex trauma, depression, and family/relationship issues.
I works with a broad range of approaches including Internal Family System (IFS), Somatic Experiencing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), trauma-focused Therapies, Mindfulness, Attachment Theory, Systemic Family Therapy, and psychodynamic models.
I’m a warm, compassionate, and open-hearted Clinical Psychologist with 9 years experience in private practice. I believe in creating a collaborative, sustainable relationship with clients in order to help people feel safe to open up, overcome their struggles and create a rich, full, meaningful life. My work honours individuals unique experiences and innate capacity to heal, resourcing clients with a range of evidence based modalities. I work with a broad range of concerns including anxiety and panic attacks, stress management, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), complex trauma, depression, and family/relationship issues.
(02) 5502 7216 View (02) 5502 7216
Photo of Kylie Finlayson - Kylie Finlayson, Principal Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed, Psychologist
Kylie Finlayson, Principal Psychologist
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Verified Verified
Chatswood, NSW 2067
Kylie’s psychology practice focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of adults experiencing a variety of problems including anxiety, stress, depression, anger management and emotional dysregulation, PTSD, adult ADHD, and men’s mental health and distress. Kylie strives to understand each individual client and their unique problem and find the most effective strategies to help them. She uses a variety of evidence-based therapeutic approaches such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Positive Psychology, and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR).
Kylie’s psychology practice focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of adults experiencing a variety of problems including anxiety, stress, depression, anger management and emotional dysregulation, PTSD, adult ADHD, and men’s mental health and distress. Kylie strives to understand each individual client and their unique problem and find the most effective strategies to help them. She uses a variety of evidence-based therapeutic approaches such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Positive Psychology, and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR).
(02) 9100 0436 View (02) 9100 0436
Photo of Kimberly Tng, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Kimberly Tng
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
North Sydney, NSW 2060  (Online Only)
Clinically, this is done through CBT, Schema Therapy, ACT, and DBT informed practices.
I help new immigrants, bicultural, and third-culture clients as they navigate the complexities of straddling multiple cultures whilst facing the challenges of adulthood. We work together to build the capacity to step into an authentic way of living and explore uncomfortable emotions.
Clinically, this is done through CBT, Schema Therapy, ACT, and DBT informed practices.
I help new immigrants, bicultural, and third-culture clients as they navigate the complexities of straddling multiple cultures whilst facing the challenges of adulthood. We work together to build the capacity to step into an authentic way of living and explore uncomfortable emotions.
(03) 7003 2574 View (03) 7003 2574

See more therapy options for Saint Leonards

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.