Dialectical Behaviour (DBT) Counselling in Kew, VIC

Photo of Martha Roumanis, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Martha Roumanis
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Kew, VIC 3101
I utilise a number of techniques including ACT, CBT, Emotional Focused Therapy, Gottman Therapy, Mindfuness, DBT and Schema Therapy.
Thank you for taking time to read my profile. I am an AHPRA registered and endorsed clinical psychologist and I have over 17 years experience in both the public sector and private setting. I practice from a holistic, empathic and humble approach and have an understanding that each client is a unique individual and treatment is tailored to meet their needs. My person-centered approach is one that facilitates a collaborative therapeutic relationship with a client/s and will assist the person to navigate through life by facilitating hope, meaning and reward in a supportive and therapeutic setting.
I utilise a number of techniques including ACT, CBT, Emotional Focused Therapy, Gottman Therapy, Mindfuness, DBT and Schema Therapy.
Thank you for taking time to read my profile. I am an AHPRA registered and endorsed clinical psychologist and I have over 17 years experience in both the public sector and private setting. I practice from a holistic, empathic and humble approach and have an understanding that each client is a unique individual and treatment is tailored to meet their needs. My person-centered approach is one that facilitates a collaborative therapeutic relationship with a client/s and will assist the person to navigate through life by facilitating hope, meaning and reward in a supportive and therapeutic setting.
(02) 4810 0663 View (02) 4810 0663
Photo of Cristian Mcheileh - Hourglass Psychology, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Hourglass Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kew, VIC 3101
My treatment approach is informed by a range of evidence-based therapies including but not limited to Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Harm Minimisation/Relapse Prevention, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Solution Focussed Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, Interpersonal Psychotherapy.
Appointments Available - book online at hourglasspsychology.com.au/appointments. I work with young people and adults treating anxiety, depression, grief, low self-esteem, adjustment difficulties, relationship issues, self-harming, addictions, stress, amongst other problems. I also have an interest in working with people across diverse sexuality, sex, and gender spectrums. I assist you to find practical solutions to your problems that fit within your lifestyle, values and personal investment, drawing on your strengths to create meaningful long-term change. I also work with your evolving goals, and offer guidance and support.
My treatment approach is informed by a range of evidence-based therapies including but not limited to Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Harm Minimisation/Relapse Prevention, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Solution Focussed Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, Interpersonal Psychotherapy.
Appointments Available - book online at hourglasspsychology.com.au/appointments. I work with young people and adults treating anxiety, depression, grief, low self-esteem, adjustment difficulties, relationship issues, self-harming, addictions, stress, amongst other problems. I also have an interest in working with people across diverse sexuality, sex, and gender spectrums. I assist you to find practical solutions to your problems that fit within your lifestyle, values and personal investment, drawing on your strengths to create meaningful long-term change. I also work with your evolving goals, and offer guidance and support.
(03) 7003 2053 View (03) 7003 2053
Photo of Manuela Barichello, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Manuela Barichello
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Kew, VIC 3101
Other therapies include CBT, ACT, Solution Focussed, DBT, Interpersonal Psychotherapy.
Manuela is a skilled psychologist with much experience in Community Health, Medical Centres and Education (Primary-Tertiary). She enjoys teaching her clients new skills, identify their strengths to reach their full potential. If you have suffered grief and loss, trauma, or anxiety/depression you can learn reframing and healing strategies to come to a resolution. If you have suffered inter-relational or situational problems you may benefit from learning emotional regulation and acceptance skills. Manuela will help you achieve the outcomes you want by tailoring therapy to meet your individual needs through effective goal setting.
Other therapies include CBT, ACT, Solution Focussed, DBT, Interpersonal Psychotherapy.
Manuela is a skilled psychologist with much experience in Community Health, Medical Centres and Education (Primary-Tertiary). She enjoys teaching her clients new skills, identify their strengths to reach their full potential. If you have suffered grief and loss, trauma, or anxiety/depression you can learn reframing and healing strategies to come to a resolution. If you have suffered inter-relational or situational problems you may benefit from learning emotional regulation and acceptance skills. Manuela will help you achieve the outcomes you want by tailoring therapy to meet your individual needs through effective goal setting.
(03) 7003 2012 View (03) 7003 2012
Photo of Dr Claire Fowler, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Dr Claire Fowler
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kew, VIC 3101
I bring a broad range of knowledge of therapies to my practice, specialising in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy ( DBT) with intensive training, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for trauma.
I have a strong passion for psychology, mental health and well-being. With a warm, compassionate and collaborative approach, I work with clients to help them identify and address their well-being goals and to help them to build a life that feels worth living. I can help with discovering and shifting thoughts, feelings and behaviours that are creating difficulties across different areas of their lives.
I bring a broad range of knowledge of therapies to my practice, specialising in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy ( DBT) with intensive training, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for trauma.
I have a strong passion for psychology, mental health and well-being. With a warm, compassionate and collaborative approach, I work with clients to help them identify and address their well-being goals and to help them to build a life that feels worth living. I can help with discovering and shifting thoughts, feelings and behaviours that are creating difficulties across different areas of their lives.
(03) 9131 8787 View (03) 9131 8787
Photo of Julia McCarthy, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed, Psychologist
Julia McCarthy
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Verified Verified
Kew, VIC 3101
These techniques may include: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Clinical Psychologist- Julia has over 15 years of experience in the mental health sector including community, clinical and juvenile forensic settings. Julia enjoys working with a range of psychological issues that young people and adults may be experiencing. These may include: trauma, gender dysphoria, personality disorders, self-harm, voices, psychotic illnesses, relationship difficulties, loss and grief, anxiety and depression. Julia also undertakes WPATH assessments for Gender-Diverse people seeking gender-affirming surgery. In addition, board approved Clinical Supervision. Visit us at www.ivanhoepsychologicalservices.com
These techniques may include: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Clinical Psychologist- Julia has over 15 years of experience in the mental health sector including community, clinical and juvenile forensic settings. Julia enjoys working with a range of psychological issues that young people and adults may be experiencing. These may include: trauma, gender dysphoria, personality disorders, self-harm, voices, psychotic illnesses, relationship difficulties, loss and grief, anxiety and depression. Julia also undertakes WPATH assessments for Gender-Diverse people seeking gender-affirming surgery. In addition, board approved Clinical Supervision. Visit us at www.ivanhoepsychologicalservices.com
0421 400 682 View 0421 400 682
Photo of Claire Naidoo, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Claire Naidoo
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Kew, VIC 3101
I integrate an eclectic mix of therapeutic techniques, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, EMDR, and Psychodynamic and mindfulness-based approaches, to ensure a tailored experience that honours each person's path.
My approach to working with clients is deeply rooted in empathy and warmth, creating a safe and compassionate space for exploration and growth. I believe in the power of authenticity, adapting my methods to suit each individual's unique needs and preferences. With a person-centered focus, I collaborate closely with clients to understand their story and guide them towards making meaningful changes and living a values-based life.
I integrate an eclectic mix of therapeutic techniques, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, EMDR, and Psychodynamic and mindfulness-based approaches, to ensure a tailored experience that honours each person's path.
My approach to working with clients is deeply rooted in empathy and warmth, creating a safe and compassionate space for exploration and growth. I believe in the power of authenticity, adapting my methods to suit each individual's unique needs and preferences. With a person-centered focus, I collaborate closely with clients to understand their story and guide them towards making meaningful changes and living a values-based life.
(03) 9052 4365 View (03) 9052 4365
Photo of Karla Lomagno, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Karla Lomagno
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kew, VIC 3101
I bring a wealth of knowledge to my practice, specialising in Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) with intensive training and expertise in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), CBT for Eating Disorders (CBT-E), Family-Based Therapy (FBT), and trauma-informed therapy.
I have over a decade of experience in both public and private mental health sectors. I have a compassionate and collaborative approach, and I work closely with clients to help them pinpoint their life-worth living goals, identify barriers to change, and support skills development to enhance behavioural effectiveness and improve overall sense of wellbeing. I have worked with individuals grappling with a diverse range of mental health conditions, and have developed a keen interest in supporting those dealing with disordered eating and emotional dysregulation challenges.
I bring a wealth of knowledge to my practice, specialising in Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT) with intensive training and expertise in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), CBT for Eating Disorders (CBT-E), Family-Based Therapy (FBT), and trauma-informed therapy.
I have over a decade of experience in both public and private mental health sectors. I have a compassionate and collaborative approach, and I work closely with clients to help them pinpoint their life-worth living goals, identify barriers to change, and support skills development to enhance behavioural effectiveness and improve overall sense of wellbeing. I have worked with individuals grappling with a diverse range of mental health conditions, and have developed a keen interest in supporting those dealing with disordered eating and emotional dysregulation challenges.
(03) 9131 8787 View (03) 9131 8787
Photo of Matthew Hallam - Matt Hallam from Equal Psychology, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Matt Hallam from Equal Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Kew, VIC 3101
Hi, my name is Matt and I am part of the team here at Equal Psychology (www.equalpsychology.com.au). I work with clients 16 years and older experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, stress, relationship concerns, identity struggles, and BPD. I will work collaboratively with you to understand your needs and goals. By working with you I aim to relieve you of your distress, help you gain deeper insight, and to build resilience against knock backs. As well as individual therapy I offer ADHD screening and assessments (starting from $300).
Hi, my name is Matt and I am part of the team here at Equal Psychology (www.equalpsychology.com.au). I work with clients 16 years and older experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, stress, relationship concerns, identity struggles, and BPD. I will work collaboratively with you to understand your needs and goals. By working with you I aim to relieve you of your distress, help you gain deeper insight, and to build resilience against knock backs. As well as individual therapy I offer ADHD screening and assessments (starting from $300).
(03) 8652 9499 View (03) 8652 9499
Photo of Natalia Cajide, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Natalia Cajide
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kew, VIC 3101
Hello, I'm Natalia. I work supporting adults and seniors through various challenges, including anxiety, depression, grief, insomnia, and significant life transitions like job changes, motherhood, or retirement.
Hello, I'm Natalia. I work supporting adults and seniors through various challenges, including anxiety, depression, grief, insomnia, and significant life transitions like job changes, motherhood, or retirement.
(03) 7003 2508 View (03) 7003 2508
Photo of Dr Jennifer Wheeler, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Dr Jennifer Wheeler
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Kew, VIC 3101
I became a psychologist because I believe that everyone should have the opportunity to live the best life they can. Life is constantly changing and this uncertainty can be a challenge for some people, and may lead to anxiety and depression or other disorders. I utilise a range therapies to meet the differing and deeply personal needs of my clients. I work in collaboration with clients to identify the areas of difficulty and together we set goals and work towards them from a strengths based perspective.
I became a psychologist because I believe that everyone should have the opportunity to live the best life they can. Life is constantly changing and this uncertainty can be a challenge for some people, and may lead to anxiety and depression or other disorders. I utilise a range therapies to meet the differing and deeply personal needs of my clients. I work in collaboration with clients to identify the areas of difficulty and together we set goals and work towards them from a strengths based perspective.
(03) 7003 2145 View (03) 7003 2145
Photo of Nerolie Ross, MA, ACA-L3, Counsellor
Nerolie Ross
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Verified Verified
Kew, VIC 3101
Supporting adolescents, young adults and adults when they're experiencing stress, anxiety, depression and other related issues, causes can be triggered by relationship issues, school and workplace bullying, lack of self-identity confidence, attachment challenges, as well as worries about future direction, self-doubt, lack of self-esteem, motivation and especially more recently lockdown impacts due to COVID. Additionally leveraging from 25 years in human resources, I also provide guidance for adolescents, young adults and adults in navigating their career pathways and how to negotiate working relationships in the most affective way.
Supporting adolescents, young adults and adults when they're experiencing stress, anxiety, depression and other related issues, causes can be triggered by relationship issues, school and workplace bullying, lack of self-identity confidence, attachment challenges, as well as worries about future direction, self-doubt, lack of self-esteem, motivation and especially more recently lockdown impacts due to COVID. Additionally leveraging from 25 years in human resources, I also provide guidance for adolescents, young adults and adults in navigating their career pathways and how to negotiate working relationships in the most affective way.
(03) 7003 2031 View (03) 7003 2031
Photo of Julijana Chochovski - Pre-Emptive Healthcare  , MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Pre-Emptive Healthcare
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Kew, VIC 3101
The psychologists at Pre-Emptive Healthcare have extensive experience in psychological treatment of children, adolescents and adults that have depression, anxiety and many other conditions. Unlike other psychologists who are just out of university these clinicians been working in this field over many years. Treatment is not in a ‘home/office’ but located within its own clinic. Conveniently located close to the Eastern fwy; with ample street parking, tram stop 46 on the 48 tram route and a few minutes walk from the Burke Road, Kew intersection.
The psychologists at Pre-Emptive Healthcare have extensive experience in psychological treatment of children, adolescents and adults that have depression, anxiety and many other conditions. Unlike other psychologists who are just out of university these clinicians been working in this field over many years. Treatment is not in a ‘home/office’ but located within its own clinic. Conveniently located close to the Eastern fwy; with ample street parking, tram stop 46 on the 48 tram route and a few minutes walk from the Burke Road, Kew intersection.
(03) 7003 2901 View (03) 7003 2901
Photo of Yuedda Sio - Inner Eastern Psychology, MPsych, MAPS, Psychologist
Inner Eastern Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Verified Verified
Kew, VIC 3101
Managing difficult emotions, such as feeling down or depressed, sadness, anger, guilt, shame, feelings of emptiness or insecurity Managing mood swings and chronic mood disturbances Reducing stress and burnout Treatment of anxiety disorders including Generalized Anxiety, Social Anxiety, Health Anxiety, Phobias, and Panic Attacks Reducing harm from impulsive behaviours Adjustment to and management of major life events Coping with grief and bereavement Experience related to living with chronic illness Problems related to traumatic experience or abuse Managing distress related to body image concerns Experiences related to identifying as LGBTIQA Difficulties with identity, self-esteem or self-image
Managing difficult emotions, such as feeling down or depressed, sadness, anger, guilt, shame, feelings of emptiness or insecurity Managing mood swings and chronic mood disturbances Reducing stress and burnout Treatment of anxiety disorders including Generalized Anxiety, Social Anxiety, Health Anxiety, Phobias, and Panic Attacks Reducing harm from impulsive behaviours Adjustment to and management of major life events Coping with grief and bereavement Experience related to living with chronic illness Problems related to traumatic experience or abuse Managing distress related to body image concerns Experiences related to identifying as LGBTIQA Difficulties with identity, self-esteem or self-image
(03) 9070 3597 View (03) 9070 3597
Photo of Mercia Wessels, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Mercia Wessels
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Kew, VIC 3101
I work with adults and adolescents who want to stop repeating old patterns in their life and relationships. You're the one who is always there for others, but find it difficult to accept help in return. Your friends and loved ones reassure you, but you're plagued with a feeling that you don't really have much to offer. Self-doubt holds you back, and a constant battle with your inner critic leaves you exhausted. You've already worked really hard to try and make changes in your life, but frustratingly, your problems return and you keep struggling with feelings of emptiness and unfulfillment.
I work with adults and adolescents who want to stop repeating old patterns in their life and relationships. You're the one who is always there for others, but find it difficult to accept help in return. Your friends and loved ones reassure you, but you're plagued with a feeling that you don't really have much to offer. Self-doubt holds you back, and a constant battle with your inner critic leaves you exhausted. You've already worked really hard to try and make changes in your life, but frustratingly, your problems return and you keep struggling with feelings of emptiness and unfulfillment.
(03) 7003 2545 View (03) 7003 2545
Photo of Lillian Underhill, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Lillian Underhill
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Kew, VIC 3101
I have experience and am passionate about working with children, young people, and parents- in particular, I am interested in working with neurodiverse children and families and prioritise to adopt a neuro-affirming approach to my practice. Further areas of interest include working with clients experiencing depression, low mood and self-esteem issues, anxiety, stress, emotional regulation, and behavioural issues. I have experience with client’s who have experienced trauma (including family violence and other forms of interpersonal trauma)- as such, I ensure my practice is trauma informed and build a safe space for the clients.
I have experience and am passionate about working with children, young people, and parents- in particular, I am interested in working with neurodiverse children and families and prioritise to adopt a neuro-affirming approach to my practice. Further areas of interest include working with clients experiencing depression, low mood and self-esteem issues, anxiety, stress, emotional regulation, and behavioural issues. I have experience with client’s who have experienced trauma (including family violence and other forms of interpersonal trauma)- as such, I ensure my practice is trauma informed and build a safe space for the clients.
(03) 7003 2212 View (03) 7003 2212
Photo of Dr Lei Gryffydd, PsychD, MAPS, Psychologist
Dr Lei Gryffydd
Psychologist, PsychD, MAPS
Verified Verified
Kew, VIC 3101
I am a clinical neuropsychologist specialising in the assessment and treatment of neurodevelopmental conditions (Autism, ADHD & learning conditions) across the lifespan. I am passionate about working with other LGBTQIA+ individuals and provide WPATH assessments for those seeking gender affirming treatment.
I am a clinical neuropsychologist specialising in the assessment and treatment of neurodevelopmental conditions (Autism, ADHD & learning conditions) across the lifespan. I am passionate about working with other LGBTQIA+ individuals and provide WPATH assessments for those seeking gender affirming treatment.
(03) 7003 2372 View (03) 7003 2372
Photo of Vanessa Kugathasan, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Vanessa Kugathasan
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Kew, VIC 3101
I am a clinical psychologist with over a decade of experience, I have had the privilege of working with a wide array of difficulties across different settings, from youth and adult community mental health to hospitals within the public sector. Over the years, I have transitioned to private practice, where I have supported clients dealing with a range of issues from depression and anxiety to relationship challenges, stress, and chronic illnesses.
I am a clinical psychologist with over a decade of experience, I have had the privilege of working with a wide array of difficulties across different settings, from youth and adult community mental health to hospitals within the public sector. Over the years, I have transitioned to private practice, where I have supported clients dealing with a range of issues from depression and anxiety to relationship challenges, stress, and chronic illnesses.
(03) 8400 0598 View (03) 8400 0598
Photo of Andrew Keswick, PACFA, Counsellor
Andrew Keswick
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kew, VIC 3101
Andrew is known for his ability to connect with clients from diverse backgrounds which is a testament to his professionalism, adaptability, and empathy. Andrew's demeanour fosters a supportive environment where growth can take place. Using evidence-based techniques, Andrew shapes the therapeutic process to meet each client's unique needs, ensuring that every session is personally impactful. He encourages his clients to discover their coping mechanisms and develop strategies for a more fulfilling future. Through this process, his clients are encouraged to take charge of their lives and move forward with confidence.
Andrew is known for his ability to connect with clients from diverse backgrounds which is a testament to his professionalism, adaptability, and empathy. Andrew's demeanour fosters a supportive environment where growth can take place. Using evidence-based techniques, Andrew shapes the therapeutic process to meet each client's unique needs, ensuring that every session is personally impactful. He encourages his clients to discover their coping mechanisms and develop strategies for a more fulfilling future. Through this process, his clients are encouraged to take charge of their lives and move forward with confidence.
(03) 7500 5065 View (03) 7500 5065
Photo of Sharon Wells, MA, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sharon Wells
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Kew, VIC 3101
Finding someone who has expertise, but importantly can connect, and quickly understand your issues, is critical. Clients tell me these qualities set me apart from others. My experience includes working with the full spectrum of life challenges, and mental health difficulties: from anxiety & depression, to relationships, ADHD, ASD, & chronic illness. From the young to older folk, parents and families, we create a safe space to explore the tricky places that maybe keeping you stuck, and find an easier path forward. With compassion and curiosity, I enjoy supporting each person to build a greater sense of self worth and confidence.
Finding someone who has expertise, but importantly can connect, and quickly understand your issues, is critical. Clients tell me these qualities set me apart from others. My experience includes working with the full spectrum of life challenges, and mental health difficulties: from anxiety & depression, to relationships, ADHD, ASD, & chronic illness. From the young to older folk, parents and families, we create a safe space to explore the tricky places that maybe keeping you stuck, and find an easier path forward. With compassion and curiosity, I enjoy supporting each person to build a greater sense of self worth and confidence.
(03) 7003 2107 View (03) 7003 2107
Photo of Dr Kate O'Brien, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Dr Kate O'Brien
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Kew, VIC 3101
Waitlist for new clients
My approach is about self-discovery. With curiosity and compassion, I am to help clients explore, move through, and integrate challenging experiences, to ultimately discover what they truly value and what is vital for attaining and maintaining psychological well-being.
My approach is about self-discovery. With curiosity and compassion, I am to help clients explore, move through, and integrate challenging experiences, to ultimately discover what they truly value and what is vital for attaining and maintaining psychological well-being.
(03) 7003 2086 View (03) 7003 2086
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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.