Dialectical Behaviour (DBT) Counselling in Melville, WA

Photo of Jacob Jones, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Jacob Jones
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melville, WA 6156
Therefore, I employ a variety of therapies, including Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Schema Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy ( DBT) &Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).
My name is Jacob, I am a registered psychologist with Sage Psychological Services. Sage is a local private practice, offering affordable and holistic mental health support to our clients. I have a considerable amount of experience working with trauma, anxiety, PTSD and stress within adult populations. I also have experience working with mood-related issues, other anxiety-related issues, personality issues and relationship issues. I use an empathic and holistic approach to each client to assist in not only resolving symptoms experienced but attaining growth towards personal goals and values.
Therefore, I employ a variety of therapies, including Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Schema Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy ( DBT) &Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).
My name is Jacob, I am a registered psychologist with Sage Psychological Services. Sage is a local private practice, offering affordable and holistic mental health support to our clients. I have a considerable amount of experience working with trauma, anxiety, PTSD and stress within adult populations. I also have experience working with mood-related issues, other anxiety-related issues, personality issues and relationship issues. I use an empathic and holistic approach to each client to assist in not only resolving symptoms experienced but attaining growth towards personal goals and values.
(08) 9468 7252 View (08) 9468 7252
Photo of Felicity Miller, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Felicity Miller
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Melville, WA 6156
Felicity combines components from therapeutic approaches including Schema Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy ( DBT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, Interpersonal Process Therapy, and attachment- based interventions.
Felicity is experienced in working alongside adults and adolescents who are experiencing distress in everyday life. She helps clients to develop a better understanding of the origins of problem behaviours so that they are able to make changes that go beyond symptom relief. Felicity’s areas of interest include eating disorders, interpersonal difficulties, personality issues, substance use issues, mood and anxiety disorders, domestic violence behaviours and relationship issues.
Felicity combines components from therapeutic approaches including Schema Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy ( DBT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, Interpersonal Process Therapy, and attachment- based interventions.
Felicity is experienced in working alongside adults and adolescents who are experiencing distress in everyday life. She helps clients to develop a better understanding of the origins of problem behaviours so that they are able to make changes that go beyond symptom relief. Felicity’s areas of interest include eating disorders, interpersonal difficulties, personality issues, substance use issues, mood and anxiety disorders, domestic violence behaviours and relationship issues.
(08) 6002 2787 View (08) 6002 2787
Photo of Cheralee King, PACFA, Counsellor
Cheralee King
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melville, WA 6156
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor and Family Therapist with a passion for supporting clients to develop self-awareness and address issues that can cause imbalance in every day life. Using an integrated person-centered approach, I work with clients to set achievable goals working towards improving their quality of life. I feel strongly about working alongside clients to support their journey in a way that works best for them, while challenging them to seek new and more effective ways to view their world.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor and Family Therapist with a passion for supporting clients to develop self-awareness and address issues that can cause imbalance in every day life. Using an integrated person-centered approach, I work with clients to set achievable goals working towards improving their quality of life. I feel strongly about working alongside clients to support their journey in a way that works best for them, while challenging them to seek new and more effective ways to view their world.
(08) 6219 3902 View (08) 6219 3902
Photo of Christopher Ladeira, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Christopher Ladeira
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Melville, WA 6156
Hey, My name’s Chris. I’m a Clinical Psychologist and Fremantle local. Do you feel like things are off in life? Are you unhappy or unfulfilled with where you’re at? Do you struggle with high stress, a strong inner critic or strained relationships where your needs just don’t seem to be met. Maybe you're finding it tough to adjust to changes or feeling the weight of past experiences that just won't fade. If any of this sounds familiar, maybe I can help.
Hey, My name’s Chris. I’m a Clinical Psychologist and Fremantle local. Do you feel like things are off in life? Are you unhappy or unfulfilled with where you’re at? Do you struggle with high stress, a strong inner critic or strained relationships where your needs just don’t seem to be met. Maybe you're finding it tough to adjust to changes or feeling the weight of past experiences that just won't fade. If any of this sounds familiar, maybe I can help.
(08) 6206 8700 View (08) 6206 8700
Photo of William Lutton, PsyBA General, Psychologist
William Lutton
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Melville, WA 6156
Inner calm, through rough seas. Are you feeling overwhelmed and struggling, with your mental health? If you are caught in a storm or memories of those in the past, I bring a modern, gentle approach to support, as a registered psychologist. I care for teens, adults, and veterans traversing hardship and realising their potential. I empower clients to build healthy coping skills and create safety, connection, and joy in their lives. I specialise in stress management, and trauma, from an integrated EMDR and Schema Therapy approach. We can all find ourselves lost at sea, and benefit from genuine support to reach the shore.
Inner calm, through rough seas. Are you feeling overwhelmed and struggling, with your mental health? If you are caught in a storm or memories of those in the past, I bring a modern, gentle approach to support, as a registered psychologist. I care for teens, adults, and veterans traversing hardship and realising their potential. I empower clients to build healthy coping skills and create safety, connection, and joy in their lives. I specialise in stress management, and trauma, from an integrated EMDR and Schema Therapy approach. We can all find ourselves lost at sea, and benefit from genuine support to reach the shore.
(08) 9468 7240 View (08) 9468 7240
Photo of Stephanie C Jones, MSc, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Stephanie C Jones
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Melville, WA 6156
My practice, Making Space Psychology, is committed to choice, safety and connection with a strong appreciation of the benefits of nature. Clients are usually in their late teens through adulthood to our elders in the latter stages of life. You may have recognised psychological disorders, relationship, adjustment and self-worth concerns, existential and climate anxiety or trauma, bereavement or medical crises. You may recognise the therapeutic benefits of nature and want to harness it. If you choose to we can walk and talk whilst undertaking therapy. Just sitting in an office talking sometimes just doesn't cut it!
My practice, Making Space Psychology, is committed to choice, safety and connection with a strong appreciation of the benefits of nature. Clients are usually in their late teens through adulthood to our elders in the latter stages of life. You may have recognised psychological disorders, relationship, adjustment and self-worth concerns, existential and climate anxiety or trauma, bereavement or medical crises. You may recognise the therapeutic benefits of nature and want to harness it. If you choose to we can walk and talk whilst undertaking therapy. Just sitting in an office talking sometimes just doesn't cut it!
(08) 6219 3797 View (08) 6219 3797
Photo of Cheong Wong, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Cheong Wong
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Melville, WA 6156
Finding the right psychologist can be a daunting task. How do you know if you have found the right one? Will you feel comfortable with them? Will they know how to treat you? I am an experienced clinical psychology registrar, and have treated many people from different walks of life. As a risk-free option, if you have a GP psychology referral letter and you find that I am not a good fit for you during your first session, this session will be bulk-billed at no cost to you.
Finding the right psychologist can be a daunting task. How do you know if you have found the right one? Will you feel comfortable with them? Will they know how to treat you? I am an experienced clinical psychology registrar, and have treated many people from different walks of life. As a risk-free option, if you have a GP psychology referral letter and you find that I am not a good fit for you during your first session, this session will be bulk-billed at no cost to you.
0477 228 807 View 0477 228 807
Photo of Konrad Srokowski, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Konrad Srokowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
Melville, WA 6156
Konrad has a compassionate and non-judgmental approach and works in a collaborative way to build trust and safety. Konrad is an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and has worked with people with diverse mental health needs in public, private and NGO services over the last six years. Konrad works with third wave CBT and Gestalt Therapy approaches to help clients find the skills to manage more effectively with difficult thoughts and emotions; improve relationships; face challenges and solve other problems in life.
Konrad has a compassionate and non-judgmental approach and works in a collaborative way to build trust and safety. Konrad is an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker and has worked with people with diverse mental health needs in public, private and NGO services over the last six years. Konrad works with third wave CBT and Gestalt Therapy approaches to help clients find the skills to manage more effectively with difficult thoughts and emotions; improve relationships; face challenges and solve other problems in life.
(08) 9489 9416 View (08) 9489 9416
Photo of Marie-Helene Marsolais, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Marie-Helene Marsolais
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Melville, WA 6156
My clients often question their relationship with alcohol, even if they don't identify as alcoholics. Usually binge drinking and high functioning drinking is the main presenting issue. I provide a safe, non-judgmental, confidential space to discuss their concerns, free from shame and stigma. Their goals vary: quitting, taking a break, or addressing current challenges. Many face depression, anxiety, or difficult life events. Some clients are French speakers - not always coming because of alcohol addiction. Regardless, understanding and empathy are central to my approach.
My clients often question their relationship with alcohol, even if they don't identify as alcoholics. Usually binge drinking and high functioning drinking is the main presenting issue. I provide a safe, non-judgmental, confidential space to discuss their concerns, free from shame and stigma. Their goals vary: quitting, taking a break, or addressing current challenges. Many face depression, anxiety, or difficult life events. Some clients are French speakers - not always coming because of alcohol addiction. Regardless, understanding and empathy are central to my approach.
(08) 9468 7260 View (08) 9468 7260

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lisa Pesick, MAPS, Psychologist
Lisa Pesick
Psychologist, MAPS
Verified Verified
Booragoon, WA 6154
I engage in evidence-based approaches, including Dialectical Behaviour Therapy ( DBT) and Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), as well Schema-Informed Therapy and ACT.
Immediate Availability! I am a psychologist with over 20 years’ experience and enjoy working with both adults and adolescents. If you are struggling with your emotions, suffer from anxiety or depression, or having trouble coping, then I may be able to help. Reaching out for support is not always easy. So I offer a warm, caring and client-centred approach to ensure that we work as a team and address your needs and goals. Whether you need help with regulating your emotions, managing stress, building self-esteem, minimising anxiety or improving mood, I am confident I can assist you on your journey.
I engage in evidence-based approaches, including Dialectical Behaviour Therapy ( DBT) and Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), as well Schema-Informed Therapy and ACT.
Immediate Availability! I am a psychologist with over 20 years’ experience and enjoy working with both adults and adolescents. If you are struggling with your emotions, suffer from anxiety or depression, or having trouble coping, then I may be able to help. Reaching out for support is not always easy. So I offer a warm, caring and client-centred approach to ensure that we work as a team and address your needs and goals. Whether you need help with regulating your emotions, managing stress, building self-esteem, minimising anxiety or improving mood, I am confident I can assist you on your journey.
(08) 7701 9614 View (08) 7701 9614
Photo of Leila Roz - Present Mind Psychology, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Present Mind Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Attadale, WA 6156
I am a registered psychologist with a warm and collaborative approach, I focus on providing person-centered care. I have an interest in ADHD, Depression, Trauma & PTSD, Anxiety and OCD. I provide adult ADHD assessments and use therapies such as CBT, EMDR, DBT, ACT, & Schema. I work with adolescents (12+) and adults. I currently have availability on Wednesdays (8:30am - 3pm).
I am a registered psychologist with a warm and collaborative approach, I focus on providing person-centered care. I have an interest in ADHD, Depression, Trauma & PTSD, Anxiety and OCD. I provide adult ADHD assessments and use therapies such as CBT, EMDR, DBT, ACT, & Schema. I work with adolescents (12+) and adults. I currently have availability on Wednesdays (8:30am - 3pm).
View
Photo of Jay Chinnery, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Jay Chinnery
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Applecross, WA 6153
He will use evidence-based psychotherapies such as Schema Therapy, EMDR, DBT, ACT, and CBT.
Jay works with adults to overcome traumatic stress. Emerging trauma literature suggests that traumatic stress underpins most mental health diagnoses, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, and borderline personality. Those living with traumatic stress typically feel numb, disconnected, afraid, alone, empty, and unsafe. They are often confused about why they feel bad and frequently ask, “what's wrong with me?” They can be disconnected from themselves, their loved ones, or the world around them, and they often have an addiction they use to reduce their pain. Ultimately, they want to feel safe, but this can feel unobtainable.
He will use evidence-based psychotherapies such as Schema Therapy, EMDR, DBT, ACT, and CBT.
Jay works with adults to overcome traumatic stress. Emerging trauma literature suggests that traumatic stress underpins most mental health diagnoses, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, and borderline personality. Those living with traumatic stress typically feel numb, disconnected, afraid, alone, empty, and unsafe. They are often confused about why they feel bad and frequently ask, “what's wrong with me?” They can be disconnected from themselves, their loved ones, or the world around them, and they often have an addiction they use to reduce their pain. Ultimately, they want to feel safe, but this can feel unobtainable.
(08) 6493 7850 View (08) 6493 7850
Photo of Bridget Visser, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Bridget Visser
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Ardross, WA 6153
I have trained in the following therapy approaches: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Radically Open DBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Schema Therapy and EMDR.
I am a Clinical Psychologist with more 10 years experience in providing counselling and therapy in a range of not-for-profit, government, hospital and private practice settings. I work with adolescents, adults and couples who are experiencing distress in their relationships, moods (depression and anxiety), as well as eating and body image difficulties.
I have trained in the following therapy approaches: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Radically Open DBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Schema Therapy and EMDR.
I am a Clinical Psychologist with more 10 years experience in providing counselling and therapy in a range of not-for-profit, government, hospital and private practice settings. I work with adolescents, adults and couples who are experiencing distress in their relationships, moods (depression and anxiety), as well as eating and body image difficulties.
(08) 6361 3172 View (08) 6361 3172
Photo of Sam Khankhalili, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Sam Khankhalili
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Applecross, WA 6153
Sam draws on techniques from a range of evidence-based interventions such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Schema therapy, DBT skills training, Solution Focused Brief Therapy and Motivational Interviewing.
Sam is the Clinical Director and Registered Psychologist at the South Perth Clear Health Psychology. Sam enjoys working with Adults, Children and athletes. He also takes pride in tackling a wide range of presentations including anxiety, depression, stress, grief, anger, interpersonal difficulties, drugs and alcohol challenges, relationship issues and sports related anxiety.Sam also particularly has interest in athlete performance. He has worked closely with some athletes from various sports backgrounds, helping them with their mental health in order towards achieving peak performance, enhancing focus and concentration,
Sam draws on techniques from a range of evidence-based interventions such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Schema therapy, DBT skills training, Solution Focused Brief Therapy and Motivational Interviewing.
Sam is the Clinical Director and Registered Psychologist at the South Perth Clear Health Psychology. Sam enjoys working with Adults, Children and athletes. He also takes pride in tackling a wide range of presentations including anxiety, depression, stress, grief, anger, interpersonal difficulties, drugs and alcohol challenges, relationship issues and sports related anxiety.Sam also particularly has interest in athlete performance. He has worked closely with some athletes from various sports backgrounds, helping them with their mental health in order towards achieving peak performance, enhancing focus and concentration,
(08) 6490 9995 View (08) 6490 9995
Photo of Keara Wood, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Keara Wood
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Applecross, WA 6153
She is skilled in CBT, Dialectal Behaviour Therapy ( DBT), Attachment Theory, Schema Therapy, EMDR and more.
Keara is an experienced psychologist that loves working with teenagers and adults with emotional concerns, trauma and relationship difficulties. Keara is skilled at helping people with anxiety, relationship concerns and difficulties, borderline personality disorder, perfectionism, depression, trauma, ADHD and more. Keara can assist with therapy and assessment including ADHD and Educational Assessments for learning difficulties or giftedness.
She is skilled in CBT, Dialectal Behaviour Therapy ( DBT), Attachment Theory, Schema Therapy, EMDR and more.
Keara is an experienced psychologist that loves working with teenagers and adults with emotional concerns, trauma and relationship difficulties. Keara is skilled at helping people with anxiety, relationship concerns and difficulties, borderline personality disorder, perfectionism, depression, trauma, ADHD and more. Keara can assist with therapy and assessment including ADHD and Educational Assessments for learning difficulties or giftedness.
(08) 6361 3218 View (08) 6361 3218
Photo of Anxiety And Trauma Debbie Beattie, MSc, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Anxiety And Trauma Debbie Beattie
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Booragoon, WA 6154
I embrace a person-centered strengths-based approach and use evidence-based treatments like CBT, DBT, EMDR and SFT to provide the best care for my clients.
Step into a nurturing therapeutic space where well-being thrives through kindness, collaboration, and accountability. I support a diverse range of adult clients in effectively addressing and managing various symptoms and challenges. Whether it's stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship struggles, I am here to guide you on your path to improved mental health. My approach is grounded in evidence-based practices, providing you with a direct and candid style of therapy. If you seek meaningful growth and positive change I am here to work with you.
I embrace a person-centered strengths-based approach and use evidence-based treatments like CBT, DBT, EMDR and SFT to provide the best care for my clients.
Step into a nurturing therapeutic space where well-being thrives through kindness, collaboration, and accountability. I support a diverse range of adult clients in effectively addressing and managing various symptoms and challenges. Whether it's stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship struggles, I am here to guide you on your path to improved mental health. My approach is grounded in evidence-based practices, providing you with a direct and candid style of therapy. If you seek meaningful growth and positive change I am here to work with you.
(08) 9473 6321 View (08) 9473 6321
Photo of Jennie Fitzhardinge, PACFA, Counsellor
Jennie Fitzhardinge
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Bicton, WA 6157
If you don't like or trust your therapist, then therapy - no matter whether it is DBT, CBT, or psychodynamic - just isn't going to work.
I work with highly sensitive people who struggle with intense emotions and their aftermath. Sometimes they may feel like they are feeling everything, all at once, at other times nothing at all. They may have experienced a big trauma, or lots of little ones. My clients come to learn how to navigate the emotional highs and lows, be a better friend and partner (and find better friends and partners) and overcome their difficulties to build a life that is meaningful and rich to them. I work with adolescents and their families and adults of all ages. I also work with carers (family and friends) of people with mental health challenges.
If you don't like or trust your therapist, then therapy - no matter whether it is DBT, CBT, or psychodynamic - just isn't going to work.
I work with highly sensitive people who struggle with intense emotions and their aftermath. Sometimes they may feel like they are feeling everything, all at once, at other times nothing at all. They may have experienced a big trauma, or lots of little ones. My clients come to learn how to navigate the emotional highs and lows, be a better friend and partner (and find better friends and partners) and overcome their difficulties to build a life that is meaningful and rich to them. I work with adolescents and their families and adults of all ages. I also work with carers (family and friends) of people with mental health challenges.
(08) 6219 3991 View (08) 6219 3991
Photo of Dr David Preece, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Dr David Preece
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Mosman Park, WA 6012
, cognitive behaviour therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, schema therapy, dialectical behaviour therapy).
I'm a Clinical Psychologist and Director at the Psychology Centre of Western Australia. I'm also a Senior Lecturer at Curtin University, where I train new psychologists and research emotion regulation. I have published over 80 journal articles and book chapters in the psychology field. In therapy, I enjoy working with people to help them achieve their goals and live more fulfilling lives. My work often focuses on helping people to better understand, process, and manage their emotions, thoughts, and behaviours. This can be in terms of addressing mental health difficulties (e.g., depression, anxiety) or for personal development.
, cognitive behaviour therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, schema therapy, dialectical behaviour therapy).
I'm a Clinical Psychologist and Director at the Psychology Centre of Western Australia. I'm also a Senior Lecturer at Curtin University, where I train new psychologists and research emotion regulation. I have published over 80 journal articles and book chapters in the psychology field. In therapy, I enjoy working with people to help them achieve their goals and live more fulfilling lives. My work often focuses on helping people to better understand, process, and manage their emotions, thoughts, and behaviours. This can be in terms of addressing mental health difficulties (e.g., depression, anxiety) or for personal development.
(08) 6490 9979 View (08) 6490 9979
Photo of Melissa Harris, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Melissa Harris
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Applecross, WA 6153
Melissa supports clients who are experiencing relationship problems (family, work, or personal) including domestic violence, partner with addiction issues, and partners with narcissistic traits. Melissa is a credentialed eating disorder clinician and works together with your GP (medical monitoring) and dietitian (nutritional intervention) to provide comprehensive care. She supports clients with acute and chronic health concerns. Melissa is a wife and mother and can help with the often challenging adjustment of becoming a parent. She has first-hand experience navigating the complexities of blended families.
Melissa supports clients who are experiencing relationship problems (family, work, or personal) including domestic violence, partner with addiction issues, and partners with narcissistic traits. Melissa is a credentialed eating disorder clinician and works together with your GP (medical monitoring) and dietitian (nutritional intervention) to provide comprehensive care. She supports clients with acute and chronic health concerns. Melissa is a wife and mother and can help with the often challenging adjustment of becoming a parent. She has first-hand experience navigating the complexities of blended families.
(08) 6333 0748 View (08) 6333 0748
Photo of Deborah Woon, MC, PACFA, Counsellor
Deborah Woon
Counsellor, MC, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Applecross, WA 6153
Hello, my name is Deb. I am a Registered Clinical Supervisor & Registered Clinical Counsellor and Psychotherapist (PACFA and ACA Level 4). My areas of special interest include Trauma and PTSD (developmental and incidental); attachment styles, anxiety and emotional regulation, coping skills, addictions, life transitions, grief and loss, single parenting, separation, or divorce. I am passionate about mental health recovery and take pride in my clients' success in processing present and past traumas and other presenting difficulties.
Hello, my name is Deb. I am a Registered Clinical Supervisor & Registered Clinical Counsellor and Psychotherapist (PACFA and ACA Level 4). My areas of special interest include Trauma and PTSD (developmental and incidental); attachment styles, anxiety and emotional regulation, coping skills, addictions, life transitions, grief and loss, single parenting, separation, or divorce. I am passionate about mental health recovery and take pride in my clients' success in processing present and past traumas and other presenting difficulties.
0432 596 395 View 0432 596 395

See more therapy options for Melville

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.