Dialectical Behaviour (DBT) Counselling in Seaforth, NSW

Photo of Lyn Pritchard, PACFA, Counsellor
Lyn Pritchard
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Seaforth, NSW 2092  (Online Only)
Underpinning a client-centred approach, I bring to my work extensive training in mindfulness strategies and relaxation techniques to help clients reduce stress and alleviate anxiety and depression. My approach favours the behaviour focused therapies of Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, (DBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, (ACT) encouraging people to reach their full potential and live according to their values. The principles of both DBT and ACT work together to help clients manage painful thoughts and feelings and support them in resolving issues around drug and alcohol addiction, depression, anxiety, and loss.
Underpinning a client-centred approach, I bring to my work extensive training in mindfulness strategies and relaxation techniques to help clients reduce stress and alleviate anxiety and depression. My approach favours the behaviour focused therapies of Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, (DBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, (ACT) encouraging people to reach their full potential and live according to their values. The principles of both DBT and ACT work together to help clients manage painful thoughts and feelings and support them in resolving issues around drug and alcohol addiction, depression, anxiety, and loss.
(02) 9100 0488 View (02) 9100 0488
Photo of Clare Elizabeth Filmer-Ramsay - M2M Counselling, ACA-L2, Counsellor
M2M Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Seaforth, NSW 2092
Hi I'm Clare. I am currently taking new clients. I focus on clients experiencing anxiety, stress, addiction, grief, feelings of low self-worth and depression. I practice within a DBT framework, using a person centred approach. I help clients re-frame their emotional experiences working with Emotion Focused Individual Therapy, motivational interviewing, and CBT. Focusing on being present, communicating effectively and regulating emotions, clients are able to make informed choices regarding their emotions, actions, and behaviours. This leads to increased motivation, positive self-worth, and improved relationships with self and others.
Hi I'm Clare. I am currently taking new clients. I focus on clients experiencing anxiety, stress, addiction, grief, feelings of low self-worth and depression. I practice within a DBT framework, using a person centred approach. I help clients re-frame their emotional experiences working with Emotion Focused Individual Therapy, motivational interviewing, and CBT. Focusing on being present, communicating effectively and regulating emotions, clients are able to make informed choices regarding their emotions, actions, and behaviours. This leads to increased motivation, positive self-worth, and improved relationships with self and others.
(02) 9909 6174 View (02) 9909 6174
Photo of Catherine Thomas, PsychD, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Catherine Thomas
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Seaforth, NSW 2092
Clear Psychology is a private psychology practice committed to providing effective mental health treatment to adults and adolescents. We integrate various evidence based therapies to meet the individual psychological needs of each person.
Clear Psychology is a private psychology practice committed to providing effective mental health treatment to adults and adolescents. We integrate various evidence based therapies to meet the individual psychological needs of each person.
(02) 9100 0609 View (02) 9100 0609
Photo of Dony Chambers - Helm Psychology and Relationship Counselling , PsychD, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Helm Psychology and Relationship Counselling
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Seaforth, NSW 2092
I am a registered psychologist with over 15 years of clinical experience. I provide counselling and psychological therapy to individuals, couples and families. I have experience in Mood Disorders, Depression, Anxiety, Addictions, PTSD, Trauma, Psychotic Disorders, Anger Management, Relationship Counselling, and Stress Management.
I am a registered psychologist with over 15 years of clinical experience. I provide counselling and psychological therapy to individuals, couples and families. I have experience in Mood Disorders, Depression, Anxiety, Addictions, PTSD, Trauma, Psychotic Disorders, Anger Management, Relationship Counselling, and Stress Management.
(02) 9100 0940 View (02) 9100 0940
Photo of Jo Roome, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Jo Roome
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Seaforth, NSW 2092
I am a clinical psychologist who works on the northern beaches. I strive to improve the quality of life & well-being of the people I work with, using a compassionate, empathic & non-judgmental lens. My aim is to provide the most appropriate therapy in a collaborative way. Are you seeking support to live the best possible life you can?
I am a clinical psychologist who works on the northern beaches. I strive to improve the quality of life & well-being of the people I work with, using a compassionate, empathic & non-judgmental lens. My aim is to provide the most appropriate therapy in a collaborative way. Are you seeking support to live the best possible life you can?
(02) 8403 0906 View (02) 8403 0906
Photo of Katrina Helene, MA, AMHSW, Psychotherapist
Katrina Helene
Psychotherapist, MA, AMHSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seaforth, NSW 2092
Feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, experienced trauma? Maybe you feel shutdown, on edge, have anger, or your emotions jump from 0-100 in a second. Or perhaps you're having relationship/other issues. With 20+ years’ counselling experience, I bring a wealth of knowhow plus a gamut of tools & strategies to help you. If you're in a tough patch & just talking isn't changing things, an experienced therapist with years of experience can help navigate it all to bring peace & resolution. Someone warm, incisive, calm, with a good ear, & who is highly skilled to work with the issues at hand, will get you there. I will bring just that.
Feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, experienced trauma? Maybe you feel shutdown, on edge, have anger, or your emotions jump from 0-100 in a second. Or perhaps you're having relationship/other issues. With 20+ years’ counselling experience, I bring a wealth of knowhow plus a gamut of tools & strategies to help you. If you're in a tough patch & just talking isn't changing things, an experienced therapist with years of experience can help navigate it all to bring peace & resolution. Someone warm, incisive, calm, with a good ear, & who is highly skilled to work with the issues at hand, will get you there. I will bring just that.
(02) 8403 1758 View (02) 8403 1758
Photo of Katharine Cook - Family Psychology Practice, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Family Psychology Practice
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Seaforth, NSW 2092
Family Psychology Practice is a specialist therapeutic service for children, adolescents and adults. Our practice is a safe place for individuals and families to explore complex issues. Our work is always evidence based and using best practice approaches. We believe that small changes, new ideas or a change of perspective can sometimes be the difference that people need. Our Psychologists and Psychotherapists are fully registered mental health providers. Our Psychologists are Medicare providers. In consultation with a GP, treatment can be provided under Better Access to Mental Health Programme, Psychological Access Plus, Workcover.
Family Psychology Practice is a specialist therapeutic service for children, adolescents and adults. Our practice is a safe place for individuals and families to explore complex issues. Our work is always evidence based and using best practice approaches. We believe that small changes, new ideas or a change of perspective can sometimes be the difference that people need. Our Psychologists and Psychotherapists are fully registered mental health providers. Our Psychologists are Medicare providers. In consultation with a GP, treatment can be provided under Better Access to Mental Health Programme, Psychological Access Plus, Workcover.
(02) 8320 0355 View (02) 8320 0355

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sarah Bays, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Sarah Bays
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Mosman, NSW 2088
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 and 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 and online.
(02) 9100 0134 View (02) 9100 0134
Photo of Aaron Skilton, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Aaron Skilton
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Frenchs Forest, NSW 2086
I draw from a variety of therapeutic approaches including cognitive-behavioural therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, dialectical behavioural therapy, emotion coaching and parent training.
I am a psychologist and clinical psychology registrar with immediate availability to begin treatment. I have broad experience in child and adult mental health and have worked in multiple treatment settings - the Centre for Emotional Health (child anxiety), St Vincent’s Hospital (adult anxiety, OCD, phobia, panic attacks, social anxiety), Westmead Children's Hospital (chronic illness, chronic pain), and the Sydney University Clinic (adult anxiety, depression, ADHD, family therapy). I currently work part-time as a psychologist at Northern Beaches Hospital.
I draw from a variety of therapeutic approaches including cognitive-behavioural therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, dialectical behavioural therapy, emotion coaching and parent training.
I am a psychologist and clinical psychology registrar with immediate availability to begin treatment. I have broad experience in child and adult mental health and have worked in multiple treatment settings - the Centre for Emotional Health (child anxiety), St Vincent’s Hospital (adult anxiety, OCD, phobia, panic attacks, social anxiety), Westmead Children's Hospital (chronic illness, chronic pain), and the Sydney University Clinic (adult anxiety, depression, ADHD, family therapy). I currently work part-time as a psychologist at Northern Beaches Hospital.
(02) 8403 0826 View (02) 8403 0826
Photo of Dr Ingrid McPhee, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Dr Ingrid McPhee
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Roseville, NSW 2069
I offer a warm and respectful therapeutic space to adolescents (16+ years) and adults, taking a collaborative approach with each client to develop a treatment plan that recognises their unique strengths and values, and works to address their current challenges, while also promoting their overall health and wellbeing. I draw on various therapy models to do so, including CBT, DBT, EMDR (an evidence-based treatment for trauma), Internal Family Systems, mindfulness and attachment-focused approaches.
I offer a warm and respectful therapeutic space to adolescents (16+ years) and adults, taking a collaborative approach with each client to develop a treatment plan that recognises their unique strengths and values, and works to address their current challenges, while also promoting their overall health and wellbeing. I draw on various therapy models to do so, including CBT, DBT, EMDR (an evidence-based treatment for trauma), Internal Family Systems, mindfulness and attachment-focused approaches.
(02) 8999 5051 View (02) 8999 5051
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 Adam Horvath, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Adam Horvath
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mosman, NSW 2088
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 Sanchana Venkatesh, MPsych, PsyBA - Ed. Psych., Psychologist
Sanchana Venkatesh
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Ed. Psych.
Verified Verified
Neutral Bay, NSW 2089
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 Carolina Souto-Jones, PACFA, Counsellor
Carolina Souto-Jones
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Manly, NSW 2095
Waitlist for new clients
I work with a person-centred approach, within it I pull from my years of experience in all areas of mental health. The therapeutic strategies and interventions I predominantly work with are the behaviour focused therapies of Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, (DBT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR). Above all I hold the up most importance in developing a good therapeutic relationship between client and therapist, within it a emotional bond of trust, caring and respect is created, which allows for a safe space where healing can take place.
I work with a person-centred approach, within it I pull from my years of experience in all areas of mental health. The therapeutic strategies and interventions I predominantly work with are the behaviour focused therapies of Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, (DBT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR). Above all I hold the up most importance in developing a good therapeutic relationship between client and therapist, within it a emotional bond of trust, caring and respect is created, which allows for a safe space where healing can take place.
(02) 8403 0054 View (02) 8403 0054
Photo of Kurt Bayly, MA, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Kurt Bayly
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mosman, NSW 2088
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 Tess Reid Online Telehealth Counselling, PACFA, Counsellor
Tess Reid Online Telehealth Counselling
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
North Willoughby, NSW 2068  (Online Only)
As a counsellor I work from a wide range of modalities including Psychodynamic, CBT-E, DBT, Narrative therapy, Grief therapy, Solution focused therapy and trauma informed therapy.
Hi, I am a compassionate and warm clinical counsellor offering online telehealth sessions Australia wide. I have extensive experience in working with relationship concerns, stress, identity and sexuality, grief, anxiety, depression, drugs and alcohol, trauma, mood disorders, workplace concerns and disordered eating and eating disorders.
As a counsellor I work from a wide range of modalities including Psychodynamic, CBT-E, DBT, Narrative therapy, Grief therapy, Solution focused therapy and trauma informed therapy.
Hi, I am a compassionate and warm clinical counsellor offering online telehealth sessions Australia wide. I have extensive experience in working with relationship concerns, stress, identity and sexuality, grief, anxiety, depression, drugs and alcohol, trauma, mood disorders, workplace concerns and disordered eating and eating disorders.
(02) 8599 7298 View (02) 8599 7298
Photo of Georgia J MacNevin, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Georgia J MacNevin
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manly, NSW 2095
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 Dr Tamara Robins, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Dr Tamara Robins
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Middle Cove, NSW 2068
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in evidence based therapies including CBT, ACT, DBT, EMDR, mindfulness based therapy, self compassion and trauma informed therapy.
I take a compassionate and personalised approach to therapy. I appreciate the distinctive backgrounds and perspectives of each individual. I enjoy working with teens 15+ and adults to build meaning and purpose in life and help navigate challenges such as anxiety, OCD, depression, work, study and parenting stress and burnout, PTSD and complex trauma.
I am trained in evidence based therapies including CBT, ACT, DBT, EMDR, mindfulness based therapy, self compassion and trauma informed therapy.
I take a compassionate and personalised approach to therapy. I appreciate the distinctive backgrounds and perspectives of each individual. I enjoy working with teens 15+ and adults to build meaning and purpose in life and help navigate challenges such as anxiety, OCD, depression, work, study and parenting stress and burnout, PTSD and complex trauma.
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Photo of Eleonora Mancini, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Eleonora Mancini
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Mosman, NSW 2088  (Online Only)
Schema Therapy is the main modality used, though integrating methods and techniques from ACT, Psychodynamic theories, CBT and DBT.
Eleonora is a warm and down-to-earth Psychologist and provides online individual therapy for adults. Special interest areas include Depression and Anxiety, both situational and long-standing. Attachment and relationship issues. Interpersonal difficulties. Existential dilemmas, self-reflection and personal growth. Life transitions and adjustment. Self-worth & self-esteem issues. Identity and personality issues. Assertiveness issues. Excessive guilt. Perfectionism and unrelenting standards. Stress and burn-out. Consultations can be conducted in English or Italian (or blended, if easier).
Schema Therapy is the main modality used, though integrating methods and techniques from ACT, Psychodynamic theories, CBT and DBT.
Eleonora is a warm and down-to-earth Psychologist and provides online individual therapy for adults. Special interest areas include Depression and Anxiety, both situational and long-standing. Attachment and relationship issues. Interpersonal difficulties. Existential dilemmas, self-reflection and personal growth. Life transitions and adjustment. Self-worth & self-esteem issues. Identity and personality issues. Assertiveness issues. Excessive guilt. Perfectionism and unrelenting standards. Stress and burn-out. Consultations can be conducted in English or Italian (or blended, if easier).
(02) 5604 4022 View (02) 5604 4022
Photo of Kylie Finlayson - Kylie Finlayson, Principal Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed, Psychologist
Kylie Finlayson, Principal Psychologist
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Verified Verified
Mosman, NSW 2088
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

See more therapy options for Seaforth

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.