Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in St Albert, AB
I believe in using evidence-based approaches and draw from many therapeutic modalities including DBT, trauma-informed care, and mindfulness-based CBT.
Therapy can often feel overwhelming and scary, which is why I focus on creating a safe and secure foundation within the therapeutic space. I believe that this foundation begins from a relational approach, so I ensure that my practice is grounded in collaboration. I focus sessions on creating a non-judgmental space for you to be unapologetically vulnerable. I will meet you in each session with compassion, empathy, and warmth, and support you in building new coping tools to build on the strengths and skills that you already have.
I believe in using evidence-based approaches and draw from many therapeutic modalities including DBT, trauma-informed care, and mindfulness-based CBT.
Therapy can often feel overwhelming and scary, which is why I focus on creating a safe and secure foundation within the therapeutic space. I believe that this foundation begins from a relational approach, so I ensure that my practice is grounded in collaboration. I focus sessions on creating a non-judgmental space for you to be unapologetically vulnerable. I will meet you in each session with compassion, empathy, and warmth, and support you in building new coping tools to build on the strengths and skills that you already have.
Debbie Lynn Tabin
Registered Social Worker, BSW, RSW, MAL
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
St Albert, AB T8N
I have formal education, as well as specialized training in CBT (TEAM-CBT - Level 3 certified), Solution Focussed Therapy, DBT, and ACT.
Do you find that anxiety, depression, relationship conflicts, or habits and addictions are holding you back from fully embracing and living the life you were meant to? I have 20+ years of experience working with teens and adults. I am here to help guide you through this process and to facilitate the change you are longing for. I have specialized training in TEAM-CBT - a cognitive behavioural approach developed by Dr. David Burns, best selling author of "Feeling Good" and "Feeling Great". www.softstonecounselling.com
I have formal education, as well as specialized training in CBT (TEAM-CBT - Level 3 certified), Solution Focussed Therapy, DBT, and ACT.
Do you find that anxiety, depression, relationship conflicts, or habits and addictions are holding you back from fully embracing and living the life you were meant to? I have 20+ years of experience working with teens and adults. I am here to help guide you through this process and to facilitate the change you are longing for. I have specialized training in TEAM-CBT - a cognitive behavioural approach developed by Dr. David Burns, best selling author of "Feeling Good" and "Feeling Great". www.softstonecounselling.com
Pavaneet Dhaliwal
Registered Provisional Psychologist, BSc, MC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
St Albert, AB T8N
I'm a Registered Provisional Psychologist who was over 8 years of experience working specifically with children, adolescents and their families in a variety of different settings such as schools, community agencies and private practice. My specific interest includes providing support for a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, relationship challenges, low self-esteem and trauma. I primarily utilize a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) approach, however, I also incorporate different therapeutic modalities in my practice given each individual’s unique needs. This may include ACT, DBT, SFT and CFT.
I'm a Registered Provisional Psychologist who was over 8 years of experience working specifically with children, adolescents and their families in a variety of different settings such as schools, community agencies and private practice. My specific interest includes providing support for a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, relationship challenges, low self-esteem and trauma. I primarily utilize a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) approach, however, I also incorporate different therapeutic modalities in my practice given each individual’s unique needs. This may include ACT, DBT, SFT and CFT.
Danielle Newsome Huber
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
St Albert, AB T8N
Danielle also uses dialectical behaviour therapy, narrative therapy, and existential therapy.
Danielle is a Registered Provisional Psychologist who works with individuals & couples with their mental health, significant life events, trauma, & relationships. She understands the importance of trust, therapeutic relationship building, cultural safety, & support; & brings a strong background in the bio-psycho-social model that incorporates trauma-focused and informed care. Danielle approaches her work with a sense of humbleness as she recognizes the strength it can take to begin and maintain a journey of self-discovery and change. Having a collaborative approach will aid in helping you feel like you can talk openly and honestly.
Danielle also uses dialectical behaviour therapy, narrative therapy, and existential therapy.
Danielle is a Registered Provisional Psychologist who works with individuals & couples with their mental health, significant life events, trauma, & relationships. She understands the importance of trust, therapeutic relationship building, cultural safety, & support; & brings a strong background in the bio-psycho-social model that incorporates trauma-focused and informed care. Danielle approaches her work with a sense of humbleness as she recognizes the strength it can take to begin and maintain a journey of self-discovery and change. Having a collaborative approach will aid in helping you feel like you can talk openly and honestly.
I believe in the human spirit, uniqueness of experience, personal strength, and the critical nature of support. In my practice, I work with individuals in a culturally sensitive manner that displays warmth, genuineness, and respect. Furthermore, I am dedicated towards empowering clients in helping them meet their goals. I have directed my practice to work with clients who are experiencing emotional distress, transitions, trauma, and with members of the military community. I work in helping clients emotionally regulate through the use of Self-Regulation Therapy, DBT, Narrative, and CBT approaches.
I believe in the human spirit, uniqueness of experience, personal strength, and the critical nature of support. In my practice, I work with individuals in a culturally sensitive manner that displays warmth, genuineness, and respect. Furthermore, I am dedicated towards empowering clients in helping them meet their goals. I have directed my practice to work with clients who are experiencing emotional distress, transitions, trauma, and with members of the military community. I work in helping clients emotionally regulate through the use of Self-Regulation Therapy, DBT, Narrative, and CBT approaches.
Allison Paré
Registered Provisional Psychologist, BA, MA
Verified Verified
St Albert, AB T8N
Waitlist for new clients
I also bring in different approaches that work for you, including EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, CBT, DBT and more.
Hi, I’m Allison and I’m glad you are here. Life can throw a lot of curveballs our way. Some days it can feel as though we are drowning in life stressors and caught in worrying spirals or experiencing task paralysis. Other days may feel doable but then a trauma trigger hits us, and we get stopped in our tracks. A counselling relationship can help us navigate through overwhelming and difficult life circumstances. Reaching out for help is hard but with a little bit of discomfort comes change and growth!
I also bring in different approaches that work for you, including EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, CBT, DBT and more.
Hi, I’m Allison and I’m glad you are here. Life can throw a lot of curveballs our way. Some days it can feel as though we are drowning in life stressors and caught in worrying spirals or experiencing task paralysis. Other days may feel doable but then a trauma trigger hits us, and we get stopped in our tracks. A counselling relationship can help us navigate through overwhelming and difficult life circumstances. Reaching out for help is hard but with a little bit of discomfort comes change and growth!
I work with children, teens, and adults on a range of concerns including depression, anxiety, grief, emotional regulation, ADHD and trauma. My approach to counseling is grounded in mindfulness and evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART). I’m also trained in SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions), a program that supports parents to help manage their children’s anxiety, OCD and ARFID with effective tools. My goal is to help you create positive change by empowering you to develop skills and reach your goals.
I work with children, teens, and adults on a range of concerns including depression, anxiety, grief, emotional regulation, ADHD and trauma. My approach to counseling is grounded in mindfulness and evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART). I’m also trained in SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions), a program that supports parents to help manage their children’s anxiety, OCD and ARFID with effective tools. My goal is to help you create positive change by empowering you to develop skills and reach your goals.
Gina Schmidt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
St Albert, AB T8N
I use a variety of approaches to work with my clients including Dialectical Behaviour Therapy ( DBT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Self Regulation Therapy (SRT) and Mindfulness.
Life can be challenging. We've all been there. And sometimes we need a little extra support to get through them. I am a Registered Clinical Social Worker. I have been working as a social worker for more than 24 years. I have worked in a hospital in mental health for 15 years and have transitioned my knowledge and experience into private practice. I work primarily with adults who struggle with borderline personality, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and substance abuse. I also offer online services to those in Ontario.
I use a variety of approaches to work with my clients including Dialectical Behaviour Therapy ( DBT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Self Regulation Therapy (SRT) and Mindfulness.
Life can be challenging. We've all been there. And sometimes we need a little extra support to get through them. I am a Registered Clinical Social Worker. I have been working as a social worker for more than 24 years. I have worked in a hospital in mental health for 15 years and have transitioned my knowledge and experience into private practice. I work primarily with adults who struggle with borderline personality, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and substance abuse. I also offer online services to those in Ontario.
Kristen Dubrule
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
St Albert, AB T8N (Online Only)
My approach combines trauma-informed care with primarily Dialectical Behavioural Therapy ( DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
I am experienced in treating PTSD and complex trauma. I can also help you address behaviours that are prolonging your suffering; whether you're struggling with an addiction, or acts of aggression towards yourself or others. I do this with an understanding that people have had to adapt to overcome unthinkable circumstances. Although this is an area of interest, I also have experience helping people with a variety of challenges such as anger, paranoia, depression, and anxiety. I am open to discussing your specific needs to determine if I am the right fit for you. We can also assess whether virtual therapy is right for you.
My approach combines trauma-informed care with primarily Dialectical Behavioural Therapy ( DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
I am experienced in treating PTSD and complex trauma. I can also help you address behaviours that are prolonging your suffering; whether you're struggling with an addiction, or acts of aggression towards yourself or others. I do this with an understanding that people have had to adapt to overcome unthinkable circumstances. Although this is an area of interest, I also have experience helping people with a variety of challenges such as anger, paranoia, depression, and anxiety. I am open to discussing your specific needs to determine if I am the right fit for you. We can also assess whether virtual therapy is right for you.
Trained in CBT, DBT, ACT, MBSR, Schema Therapy, and Grief Recovery Specialist.
Life can present with many challenges and struggles; however, it can bring us to a journey of self-awareness and self-discovery. I hope to help you discover who you are meant to be, both as an individual or as a couple. I am registered social worker, with 15 years of counselling experience. I have a passion for my work and it shows in my commitment and dedication to my clients. My interest is working with adults either individually or as a couple.
Trained in CBT, DBT, ACT, MBSR, Schema Therapy, and Grief Recovery Specialist.
Life can present with many challenges and struggles; however, it can bring us to a journey of self-awareness and self-discovery. I hope to help you discover who you are meant to be, both as an individual or as a couple. I am registered social worker, with 15 years of counselling experience. I have a passion for my work and it shows in my commitment and dedication to my clients. My interest is working with adults either individually or as a couple.
Jilynne Whittington
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MACP, BSc
Verified Verified
St Albert, AB T8N
My approach is integrative, consisting of of CBT, DBT, and elements of solution-focused therapy.
Hello! I am Jilynne, a radically honest therapist who appreciates humor and swearing (if you're into that). My primary goal in the early stages is to create a space that feels incredibly safe for you. So many people feel stuck and don't know how to move forward. I can help you look at things from many perspectives (emotional wounds in childhood, harmful thinking patterns, major life changes, and more) so that you no longer feel at a crossroads in life.
My approach is integrative, consisting of of CBT, DBT, and elements of solution-focused therapy.
Hello! I am Jilynne, a radically honest therapist who appreciates humor and swearing (if you're into that). My primary goal in the early stages is to create a space that feels incredibly safe for you. So many people feel stuck and don't know how to move forward. I can help you look at things from many perspectives (emotional wounds in childhood, harmful thinking patterns, major life changes, and more) so that you no longer feel at a crossroads in life.
15 Second Videos
Karah Pegg
Debbie Lynn Tabin
Teena Garcia
Kerri Severin
Cassandra Elliott
Kristen Kaye Oliveros
Joel Christopher Geleynse
Jake Sombrutzki
Holly Reeve
Savneet Singh
DiveThru
Shaheen Alarakhia
Ruth Reina
Andreea Maries
The Grief and Trauma Healing Centre Inc.
Strength Counselling Services
Parker Pothier
Lucy Nesbitt Holistic Trauma Therapy
Ryan S McDonald
Shedean Jones Infidelity Childhood Trauma Infertility Addictions
Tracy Colson
Edwina Fernandes - Stillwater Counselling
I also use Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy and Mindfulness and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy which can be used alone or in conjunction with EMDR.
Hello, I have been in the field for over 18 years and enjoy working collaboratively with others to see their true potential. One of my specialties is working with people who have experienced trauma such as: childhood, single incident (ie. motor vehicle accident), or first responder. Besides trauma, I work with people managing life stressors such as work-related, separation or divorce, or perhaps dealing with the experiences of anxiety and depression. By working together through these typically challenging situations, it allows an opportunity to communicate, discuss and consider open possibilities for change.
I also use Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy and Mindfulness and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy which can be used alone or in conjunction with EMDR.
Hello, I have been in the field for over 18 years and enjoy working collaboratively with others to see their true potential. One of my specialties is working with people who have experienced trauma such as: childhood, single incident (ie. motor vehicle accident), or first responder. Besides trauma, I work with people managing life stressors such as work-related, separation or divorce, or perhaps dealing with the experiences of anxiety and depression. By working together through these typically challenging situations, it allows an opportunity to communicate, discuss and consider open possibilities for change.
Keisha Doucette
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
St Albert, AB T8N
I am a Registered Provisional Psychologist offering a wide range of therapeutic approaches: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy ( DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution Focused Therapy (SFT), and Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), depending on your needs.
The unfortunate truth is that life will always present tough times and challenges. Trauma and stress do not discriminate and can be immensely impactful. It may be easier at times to repress difficult feelings and emotions, rather than face them head-on. However, what is repressed can slowly seep out into multiple areas of one's life, impacting self-esteem, relationships, ability to cope, etc. Together, we can work on your goals to enhance what you already have within you to cope, regulate, and enhance your quality of life.
I am a Registered Provisional Psychologist offering a wide range of therapeutic approaches: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy ( DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution Focused Therapy (SFT), and Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), depending on your needs.
The unfortunate truth is that life will always present tough times and challenges. Trauma and stress do not discriminate and can be immensely impactful. It may be easier at times to repress difficult feelings and emotions, rather than face them head-on. However, what is repressed can slowly seep out into multiple areas of one's life, impacting self-esteem, relationships, ability to cope, etc. Together, we can work on your goals to enhance what you already have within you to cope, regulate, and enhance your quality of life.
Are you feeling stuck with lingering bad feelings? Replaying painful experiences in your mind? Living your life in shame and guilt? I am a Registered Psychologist with a Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology from the University of Alberta and additional training in evidence-based therapies: Emotion Focused Therapy, EMDR, Prolonged Exposure Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. I specialize in emotion-based issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, shame, low self-esteem, relationship issues and grief. I welcome and respect individuals of all different backgrounds, experiences and values.
Are you feeling stuck with lingering bad feelings? Replaying painful experiences in your mind? Living your life in shame and guilt? I am a Registered Psychologist with a Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology from the University of Alberta and additional training in evidence-based therapies: Emotion Focused Therapy, EMDR, Prolonged Exposure Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. I specialize in emotion-based issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, shame, low self-esteem, relationship issues and grief. I welcome and respect individuals of all different backgrounds, experiences and values.
Tessa Dimnik - Bold Psychology
Psychologist, MEd
Verified Verified
St Albert, AB T8N
Waitlist for new clients
I work from a person-centred approach and I use tools from EMDR, ACT, DBT, IFS, Psychodynamic, and Emotion-Focused Therapy to enhance our work together.
Finding the right therapist is hard. Therapy is hard. Being vulnerable with a stranger is hard! That is why one of my main focuses in therapy is to create an environment of authenticity and empathy - this means that you are going to see me for who I am and I hope this helps you to be comfortable being you! In therapy together, we will work to embrace the authentic you and learn how to be bold moving forward, in whatever that means for you. You are a valuable human being and I will accept you just as you are.
I work from a person-centred approach and I use tools from EMDR, ACT, DBT, IFS, Psychodynamic, and Emotion-Focused Therapy to enhance our work together.
Finding the right therapist is hard. Therapy is hard. Being vulnerable with a stranger is hard! That is why one of my main focuses in therapy is to create an environment of authenticity and empathy - this means that you are going to see me for who I am and I hope this helps you to be comfortable being you! In therapy together, we will work to embrace the authentic you and learn how to be bold moving forward, in whatever that means for you. You are a valuable human being and I will accept you just as you are.
Alexandra Lieberman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
St Albert, AB T8N
I approach treatment through an anti-oppressive and trauma- informed lens and have advanced skills in EMDR, Narrative Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy ( DBT) and Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT).
I approach my practice with genuine curiosity, calm, and a healthy dose of humour. I am passionate about working with youth and families. I also work with adults addressing mental health, relational, and life challenges. I provide a comprehensive mental health assessment and a collaborative treatment plan based on your unique needs. Together we will work to increase connection, shift negative communication patterns, and strengthen understanding.
I approach treatment through an anti-oppressive and trauma- informed lens and have advanced skills in EMDR, Narrative Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy ( DBT) and Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT).
I approach my practice with genuine curiosity, calm, and a healthy dose of humour. I am passionate about working with youth and families. I also work with adults addressing mental health, relational, and life challenges. I provide a comprehensive mental health assessment and a collaborative treatment plan based on your unique needs. Together we will work to increase connection, shift negative communication patterns, and strengthen understanding.
When appropriate, I also apply Dialectical Behavioural Therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy strategies.
I specialize in helping people who experience depression, anxiety, low self-confidence, and painful feelings in current or past significant relationships. My work involves assisting people to make sense of their emotional reactions and supporting them to use this information to make wise decisions for their life. At other times, I help people alleviate their painful emotions by using techniques that change unhelpful emotion states to more invigorating emotion states. I believe in practicing as a culturally competent therapist, striving to be knowledgeable, open and respectful of the cultural beliefs and practices of all people.
When appropriate, I also apply Dialectical Behavioural Therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy strategies.
I specialize in helping people who experience depression, anxiety, low self-confidence, and painful feelings in current or past significant relationships. My work involves assisting people to make sense of their emotional reactions and supporting them to use this information to make wise decisions for their life. At other times, I help people alleviate their painful emotions by using techniques that change unhelpful emotion states to more invigorating emotion states. I believe in practicing as a culturally competent therapist, striving to be knowledgeable, open and respectful of the cultural beliefs and practices of all people.
Cristina Orobio
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
St Albert, AB T8N
I generally apply Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy.
Hello! My name is Cristina. I am passionate about supporting individuals (ages 5 and up) in navigating and in taking actionable steps to better their mental health. I specialize in trauma and PTSD that stem from early life experiences, or due to acute trauma from present day. I also specialize in anxiety and stress that arise from difficulties in relationships and life situations. I also work with those affected by neurodevelopmental challenges including Autism Spectrum and ADHD. Furthermore, I enjoy supporting parents in all stages, whether it relates to perinatal mental health or because of situations concerning their children.
I generally apply Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy.
Hello! My name is Cristina. I am passionate about supporting individuals (ages 5 and up) in navigating and in taking actionable steps to better their mental health. I specialize in trauma and PTSD that stem from early life experiences, or due to acute trauma from present day. I also specialize in anxiety and stress that arise from difficulties in relationships and life situations. I also work with those affected by neurodevelopmental challenges including Autism Spectrum and ADHD. Furthermore, I enjoy supporting parents in all stages, whether it relates to perinatal mental health or because of situations concerning their children.
I am a client centred, culturally sensitive, trauma informed counsellor who practices solution focused, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy ( DBT), Grief Treatment, Existential, ERP, and Eye Movement Reprocessing Desensitization (EMDR).
If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, self-esteem/confidence, sexual orientation, gender or body dysmorphia, PTSD, work or school/life balance, and/or addictions, counselling can help change unhelpful patterns and lead to better mental health and well-being. I work with clients to manage stress and achieve balance. I also work with clients to help with issues such as confidence, coping skills, and emotional regulation.
I am a client centred, culturally sensitive, trauma informed counsellor who practices solution focused, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy ( DBT), Grief Treatment, Existential, ERP, and Eye Movement Reprocessing Desensitization (EMDR).
If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, self-esteem/confidence, sexual orientation, gender or body dysmorphia, PTSD, work or school/life balance, and/or addictions, counselling can help change unhelpful patterns and lead to better mental health and well-being. I work with clients to manage stress and achieve balance. I also work with clients to help with issues such as confidence, coping skills, and emotional regulation.
We offer multidisciplinary services, including a 21-week comprehensive DBT program, a 24-week DBT-Adolescent program, a 12-week DBT skills program, and a wide range of therapy interventions for children, adolescents, and adults.
ECSS is committed to empowering individuals and families to realize their potential through a nurturing and challenging environment that respects each person’s uniqueness and right to privacy. ECSS acknowledges the importance of the mental, social, emotional, and spiritual dimensions of persons as they grow and develop. We believe that people have the ability to change and to achieve their goals, in respecting the uniqueness and privacy of individuals, and in the importance of the mental, physical, social, and spiritual dimensions of persons.
We offer multidisciplinary services, including a 21-week comprehensive DBT program, a 24-week DBT-Adolescent program, a 12-week DBT skills program, and a wide range of therapy interventions for children, adolescents, and adults.
ECSS is committed to empowering individuals and families to realize their potential through a nurturing and challenging environment that respects each person’s uniqueness and right to privacy. ECSS acknowledges the importance of the mental, social, emotional, and spiritual dimensions of persons as they grow and develop. We believe that people have the ability to change and to achieve their goals, in respecting the uniqueness and privacy of individuals, and in the importance of the mental, physical, social, and spiritual dimensions of persons.
See more therapy options for St Albert
Nearby Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Counsellors Searches for St Albert
See More Dialectical Behavior (DBT) CounsellorsDialectical Behavior (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.