Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Alberta

Photo of Abby Logan, BScN, RCT, RPN, Counsellor
Abby Logan
Counsellor, BScN, RCT, RPN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2W
I am a Registered Counselling Therapist (RCT), Registered Psychiatric Nurse (RPN), trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS) and a Certified Master Accelerated Resolution Therapist (ART) helping people heal from trauma, including invalidation trauma from others, especially regarding ADHD.
I believe we all have the capacity to heal and learn how to live a life worth living, despite challenging and painful experiences in our lives. I believe the coping strategies we develop can start creating problems if we don’t address the underlying cause. Therapy is a safe space to explore, identify, address and resolve these issues, often creating transformational growth. With over 30 years’ experience working with, and treating clients with a variety of mental health, addictions and trauma related issues, I have delivered therapy through individual and group work, and I am passionate about both approaches.
I am a Registered Counselling Therapist (RCT), Registered Psychiatric Nurse (RPN), trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS) and a Certified Master Accelerated Resolution Therapist (ART) helping people heal from trauma, including invalidation trauma from others, especially regarding ADHD.
I believe we all have the capacity to heal and learn how to live a life worth living, despite challenging and painful experiences in our lives. I believe the coping strategies we develop can start creating problems if we don’t address the underlying cause. Therapy is a safe space to explore, identify, address and resolve these issues, often creating transformational growth. With over 30 years’ experience working with, and treating clients with a variety of mental health, addictions and trauma related issues, I have delivered therapy through individual and group work, and I am passionate about both approaches.
(587) 412-2373 View (587) 412-2373
Photo of Christie Orr-Brown, RN,  MN, CCC, PMH-C, Counsellor
Christie Orr-Brown
Counsellor, RN, MN, CCC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2Z
I utilize EMDR, CBT, DBT, Self-compassion and narrative therapy in my work with clients.
Do you find yourself feeling exhausted, burnt out, or anxious? Recently welcomed a new baby and can't stop thinking about your challenging birth experience? Struggling to find your groove as a couple? Overwhelmed with intrusive thoughts and fears? Tearful and overstimulated? Those that reach out to me for help are typically suffering from trauma, depression, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, and struggles coping with pregnancy, postpartum, and parenting. I support individuals that want to learn skills to regulate, manage mood, improve their coping, and enjoy pregnancy and parenting.
I utilize EMDR, CBT, DBT, Self-compassion and narrative therapy in my work with clients.
Do you find yourself feeling exhausted, burnt out, or anxious? Recently welcomed a new baby and can't stop thinking about your challenging birth experience? Struggling to find your groove as a couple? Overwhelmed with intrusive thoughts and fears? Tearful and overstimulated? Those that reach out to me for help are typically suffering from trauma, depression, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, and struggles coping with pregnancy, postpartum, and parenting. I support individuals that want to learn skills to regulate, manage mood, improve their coping, and enjoy pregnancy and parenting.
(587) 840-6255 View (587) 840-6255
Photo of Sam Hafeli, MSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sam Hafeli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2L
I am trained in Narrative Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Phase Based Trauma Therapy, Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), and mindfulness counselling.
Available for virtual sessions for residents of Alberta and in person sessions in NW Calgary. I am passionate about providing effective therapy to individual adults who want to heal from complex trauma or mood concerns, people with ADHD and Autistic individuals, and/or members of the LGBTQQ2 community.
I am trained in Narrative Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Phase Based Trauma Therapy, Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), and mindfulness counselling.
Available for virtual sessions for residents of Alberta and in person sessions in NW Calgary. I am passionate about providing effective therapy to individual adults who want to heal from complex trauma or mood concerns, people with ADHD and Autistic individuals, and/or members of the LGBTQQ2 community.
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Photo of Leslie Pearson, MC, R Psych, CPT-S, Psychologist
Leslie Pearson
Psychologist, MC, R Psych, CPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and young adults. I am a certified play therapist and supervisor (CPT-S) through the Canadian Association of Play Therapy (CAPT). I take an integrative, client-centered approach to therapy, which also incorporates modalities such as sandtray, attachment theory, polyvagal theory, sensorimotor psychotherapy, narrative therapy, dialectical behaviour therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, Theraplay, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), family systems, and others.
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and young adults. I am a certified play therapist and supervisor (CPT-S) through the Canadian Association of Play Therapy (CAPT). I take an integrative, client-centered approach to therapy, which also incorporates modalities such as sandtray, attachment theory, polyvagal theory, sensorimotor psychotherapy, narrative therapy, dialectical behaviour therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, Theraplay, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), family systems, and others.
(587) 409-0913 View (587) 409-0913
Photo of Ben Bamijoko - Bri Counselling, MEd, MCA, MSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ben Bamijoko - Bri Counselling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, MCA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T3M
My counselling style is eclectic and rooted in a range of theoretical approaches including CBT, DBT, and trauma-informed practice.
I am a culturally affirming Master's level social worker who is passionate about working with diverse populations and creating a non-judgmental space where each client feels heard, respected, and understood. I provide counselling to youth, adults, individuals, couples, and families and I have over 14 years of experience as a clinician on the frontline and in leadership teams. I understand that at times, life’s impacts bring stress, worry, frustration, and anxiety. I work to provide clients with the right support, help, and guidance so that they can cope with challenges and re-discover their path to a more fulfilling life.
My counselling style is eclectic and rooted in a range of theoretical approaches including CBT, DBT, and trauma-informed practice.
I am a culturally affirming Master's level social worker who is passionate about working with diverse populations and creating a non-judgmental space where each client feels heard, respected, and understood. I provide counselling to youth, adults, individuals, couples, and families and I have over 14 years of experience as a clinician on the frontline and in leadership teams. I understand that at times, life’s impacts bring stress, worry, frustration, and anxiety. I work to provide clients with the right support, help, and guidance so that they can cope with challenges and re-discover their path to a more fulfilling life.
(587) 849-0921 View (587) 849-0921
Photo of Jinelle Watson, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Jinelle Watson
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2M
Jinelle primarily uses techniques from Mindfulness Based Therapy, Sensory Motor based Psychotherapy (Level 1), Art based therapy, Internal Family Systems, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, and Feminist Therapy.
Accepting New Clients! ​Jinelle’s approach to therapy comes from an anti-oppressive, and person-centered lens. She is experienced in supporting individuals through areas including depression, anxiety, big T and little t trauma, PTSD, addictions, grief and loss, sexuality, gender identity, self-image, self-worth, and pregnancy/post-partum. Low-cost services available through Masters level Practicum Student starting January 2024, Please contact for more information.
Jinelle primarily uses techniques from Mindfulness Based Therapy, Sensory Motor based Psychotherapy (Level 1), Art based therapy, Internal Family Systems, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, and Feminist Therapy.
Accepting New Clients! ​Jinelle’s approach to therapy comes from an anti-oppressive, and person-centered lens. She is experienced in supporting individuals through areas including depression, anxiety, big T and little t trauma, PTSD, addictions, grief and loss, sexuality, gender identity, self-image, self-worth, and pregnancy/post-partum. Low-cost services available through Masters level Practicum Student starting January 2024, Please contact for more information.
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Photo of Pragya Sharma, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Pragya Sharma
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6C
Waitlist for new clients
I also have training in DBT and may work with clients on skills.
I work predominantly with folks who are racialized, 2SLGBTIQ, neurodivergent, and/or disabled. Often, those I work with have been diagnosed with borderline personality disorder; experience identity-based trauma; struggle with relationships, emotional regulation, or impulsivity; want greater self-awareness or understanding; want to feel a sense of belonging, connection, and safety; or generally, want more joy in their lives.
I also have training in DBT and may work with clients on skills.
I work predominantly with folks who are racialized, 2SLGBTIQ, neurodivergent, and/or disabled. Often, those I work with have been diagnosed with borderline personality disorder; experience identity-based trauma; struggle with relationships, emotional regulation, or impulsivity; want greater self-awareness or understanding; want to feel a sense of belonging, connection, and safety; or generally, want more joy in their lives.
(825) 250-3749 View (825) 250-3749
Photo of Terri J Ward, MA Psyc, BSW, RSW
Terri J Ward
MA Psyc, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
St Albert, AB T8N
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.
(587) 806-5073 View (587) 806-5073
Photo of Jacqueline Van Starkenburg, MACP, BCHST, Registered Provisional Psychologist
Jacqueline Van Starkenburg
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MACP, BCHST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2N
I am trained in a variety of approaches to psychotherapy and can adjust my treatment methods to what suits you best including CBT, DBT, mindfulness based interventions, sand tray therapy, play therapy and the Gottman Method for couples.
I enjoy helping others and have over 15 years experience in the helping professions. I work with adults, children and families and specialize in trauma, neurodiversity, family conflict, parenting, anger and self regulation. I am also skilled in helping those who choose to use violence in their relationships. I work from both a trauma informed and attachment based lens.
I am trained in a variety of approaches to psychotherapy and can adjust my treatment methods to what suits you best including CBT, DBT, mindfulness based interventions, sand tray therapy, play therapy and the Gottman Method for couples.
I enjoy helping others and have over 15 years experience in the helping professions. I work with adults, children and families and specialize in trauma, neurodiversity, family conflict, parenting, anger and self regulation. I am also skilled in helping those who choose to use violence in their relationships. I work from both a trauma informed and attachment based lens.
(825) 254-7901 View (825) 254-7901
Photo of Jennifer Odenyo - Awakening Change Counselling & Consulting Inc, BA, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Awakening Change Counselling & Consulting Inc
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2H
We specialize in DBT, CBT, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing and Solution-Focused Therapy.
At Awakening Change our goal is to provide a safe and collaborative environment for you to work toward personal growth and change to achieve wellness. We specialize in trauma work, as well as issues such as anxiety, addiction, depression, work stress, family issues, work/life balance and parenting.
We specialize in DBT, CBT, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing and Solution-Focused Therapy.
At Awakening Change our goal is to provide a safe and collaborative environment for you to work toward personal growth and change to achieve wellness. We specialize in trauma work, as well as issues such as anxiety, addiction, depression, work stress, family issues, work/life balance and parenting.
(587) 705-0387 View (587) 705-0387
Photo of Marissa Whalley, MC, BA, Psychologist
Marissa Whalley
Psychologist, MC, BA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2M
I am trained in DBT, EMDR, and Gottman Couples Therapy.
I can empathize with the overwhelm that comes with finding a new therapist. Not only can it feel incredibly vulnerable, but it can be difficult to get a sense of who a therapist is through a brief online bio. Hopefully, I can accurately convey what therapy with me could be like. Overall, I strive to create a therapy environment grounded in curiosity, encouragement, transparency, and collaboration. I will take time to understand your unique challenges and hopes, offering honesty and compassion as we explore new ways forward for you.
I am trained in DBT, EMDR, and Gottman Couples Therapy.
I can empathize with the overwhelm that comes with finding a new therapist. Not only can it feel incredibly vulnerable, but it can be difficult to get a sense of who a therapist is through a brief online bio. Hopefully, I can accurately convey what therapy with me could be like. Overall, I strive to create a therapy environment grounded in curiosity, encouragement, transparency, and collaboration. I will take time to understand your unique challenges and hopes, offering honesty and compassion as we explore new ways forward for you.
(587) 816-4265 View (587) 816-4265
Photo of Stefanie Fernando, RPC-C, Dr, Counsellor
Stefanie Fernando
Counsellor, RPC-C, Dr
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2M  (Online Only)
In my practice I offer evidence-based and holistic approaches, drawing from techniques such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, and somatic therapy.
Are you yearning for change? Feeling stuck in old pattern? Overwhelmed by life"s demands? Feeling disconnected from life, others or yourself? Are you tired of pretending, looking to live authentically? Life presents us with challenges and transitions that can stir up discomfort and strong emotions. I believe in a holistic approach that addresses mind, body and emotions. I understand that shifts in one area of our lives can impact our overall well-being, leading us towards or away from balance.
In my practice I offer evidence-based and holistic approaches, drawing from techniques such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, and somatic therapy.
Are you yearning for change? Feeling stuck in old pattern? Overwhelmed by life"s demands? Feeling disconnected from life, others or yourself? Are you tired of pretending, looking to live authentically? Life presents us with challenges and transitions that can stir up discomfort and strong emotions. I believe in a holistic approach that addresses mind, body and emotions. I understand that shifts in one area of our lives can impact our overall well-being, leading us towards or away from balance.
(587) 742-1695 View (587) 742-1695
Photo of Samuel Orji, MC, CCC, Registered Provisional Psychologist
Samuel Orji
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MC, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2Z
Other approaches I use in treatment include CBT, solution-focused therapy, narrative therapy, DBT, and existential approaches.
In my initial sessions, clients usually say, “I want someone that gets me.” This is a shared feeling; I also want my therapist to “get me” and connect with me. Hence, I use evidence-based approaches to build this connection with my clients, honoring their stories and enabling them to feel heard, unjudged, and respected. This alliance, I believe, is fundamental to the results we collaboratively attain in therapy. I work with children, teens, young adults, seniors, couples, and families from a person-centered, systemic, and strength-based lens.
Other approaches I use in treatment include CBT, solution-focused therapy, narrative therapy, DBT, and existential approaches.
In my initial sessions, clients usually say, “I want someone that gets me.” This is a shared feeling; I also want my therapist to “get me” and connect with me. Hence, I use evidence-based approaches to build this connection with my clients, honoring their stories and enabling them to feel heard, unjudged, and respected. This alliance, I believe, is fundamental to the results we collaboratively attain in therapy. I work with children, teens, young adults, seniors, couples, and families from a person-centered, systemic, and strength-based lens.
(587) 715-2581 View (587) 715-2581
Photo of Michelle C Chia, BA, MC, RPsych, Psychologist
Michelle C Chia
Psychologist, BA, MC, RPsych
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5A
I have experience in CBT, DBT, solution-focused therapy, along with specialized training in EMDR Therapy.
I enjoy working with clients who are struggling with various issues, such as depression, anxiety, trauma, stress, anger, and relationship issues, among others.
I have experience in CBT, DBT, solution-focused therapy, along with specialized training in EMDR Therapy.
I enjoy working with clients who are struggling with various issues, such as depression, anxiety, trauma, stress, anger, and relationship issues, among others.
(587) 803-1329 View (587) 803-1329
Photo of Angela Hick, MSW, RCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angela Hick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2M
My practice draws from various therapeutic modalities, including EMDR, DBT, Non-violent resistance, Narrative Therapy, and Family Systems theories.
Are you or your child/teen feeling overwhelmed and struggling to navigate everyday life? Do you long for greater peace within your home but aren’t sure how to address family dynamics? I provide a safe and confidential space where individuals and families can openly discuss their concerns, express their emotions, and gain valuable insights into their thoughts and behaviours. Through therapy, clients can learn effective coping strategies and work towards achieving their goals.
My practice draws from various therapeutic modalities, including EMDR, DBT, Non-violent resistance, Narrative Therapy, and Family Systems theories.
Are you or your child/teen feeling overwhelmed and struggling to navigate everyday life? Do you long for greater peace within your home but aren’t sure how to address family dynamics? I provide a safe and confidential space where individuals and families can openly discuss their concerns, express their emotions, and gain valuable insights into their thoughts and behaviours. Through therapy, clients can learn effective coping strategies and work towards achieving their goals.
(587) 317-4210 View (587) 317-4210
Photo of Jilynne Whittington, MACP, BSc, Registered Provisional Psychologist
Jilynne Whittington
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MACP, BSc
Verified Verified
Edmonton, AB T6E
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.
(587) 209-4871 View (587) 209-4871
Photo of Vinita Parmar - Milli Counselling Services, MSW, LCSW, RCSW, CIT, Registered Social Worker
Milli Counselling Services
Registered Social Worker, MSW, LCSW, RCSW, CIT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grande Prairie, AB T8W  (Online Only)
I offer Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectal Behavioral Therapy ( DBT) Narrative Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy (SFT).
As a 'Registered Clinical Social Worker', (LCSW) 'Certified EMDR Therapist' and 'Consultant in Training' have a wide range of experience working with children, youth, adults and families. In my experience I have supported individuals suffering with Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Abuse, Self-Harm, Grief, Anger, Phobias, Occupational Stress, Communication and Relationship issues.
I offer Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectal Behavioral Therapy ( DBT) Narrative Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy (SFT).
As a 'Registered Clinical Social Worker', (LCSW) 'Certified EMDR Therapist' and 'Consultant in Training' have a wide range of experience working with children, youth, adults and families. In my experience I have supported individuals suffering with Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Abuse, Self-Harm, Grief, Anger, Phobias, Occupational Stress, Communication and Relationship issues.
(587) 906-9021 View (587) 906-9021
Photo of Nicole Collis, BScOT, Occupational Therapist
Nicole Collis
Occupational Therapist, BScOT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2H
I draw from a number of therapeutic modalities that include CBT, DBT, narrative therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and behavioura activation.
Over the years I have had the honour of witnessing the change that people make when they engage in various forms of therapy and can attest to the incredible amount of strength and personal knowledge people bring to this process. Life often presents us with unexpected challenges that can feel overwhelming and insurmountable. Life transitions, stress, depression and anxiety can negatively impact our coping and confidence. These difficulties often become the dominant story in people’s lives and get in the way of engaging in life in the ways that they want.
I draw from a number of therapeutic modalities that include CBT, DBT, narrative therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and behavioura activation.
Over the years I have had the honour of witnessing the change that people make when they engage in various forms of therapy and can attest to the incredible amount of strength and personal knowledge people bring to this process. Life often presents us with unexpected challenges that can feel overwhelming and insurmountable. Life transitions, stress, depression and anxiety can negatively impact our coping and confidence. These difficulties often become the dominant story in people’s lives and get in the way of engaging in life in the ways that they want.
(587) 905-0839 View (587) 905-0839
Photo of Candace M Benson, MPCC, Counsellor
Candace M Benson
Counsellor, MPCC
Verified Verified
Lethbridge, AB T1J
Waitlist for new clients
As a Master Practioner in Clinical Counselling it is my belief that everyone is deserving of a space to share their story. I use an integrative approach to counselling + serve in a client-centered way. How that works for you + how can we incorporate that to fit your lifestyle is my approach. I address a variety of diagnosed, undiagnosed mental health + substance use concerns. I am here aside you in your journey. I am trained in cognitive behavioral therapy, accelerated resolution therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy + more. I work with trauma, family, pre/post-partum couples, youth, anxiety, depression, ADHD, + Addiction.
As a Master Practioner in Clinical Counselling it is my belief that everyone is deserving of a space to share their story. I use an integrative approach to counselling + serve in a client-centered way. How that works for you + how can we incorporate that to fit your lifestyle is my approach. I address a variety of diagnosed, undiagnosed mental health + substance use concerns. I am here aside you in your journey. I am trained in cognitive behavioral therapy, accelerated resolution therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy + more. I work with trauma, family, pre/post-partum couples, youth, anxiety, depression, ADHD, + Addiction.
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Photo of Lauren Buchardt, MA, BA, Registered Provisional Psychologist
Lauren Buchardt
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MA, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2T
Hello there! I am currently accepting new clients. I offer individual counselling and sports/ performance counselling to youth and adults. I'm passionate about supporting individuals as they navigate challenges, move through transitions, and pursue their values, in sport, work, relationship, creative, or personal pursuits. My primary goal as a therapist is to create a warm, caring, and non-judgmental environment, allowing clients to express themselves fully. My approach is humanistic, holistic, growth-oriented, and collaborative. Approaches I draw from include: humanistic/ narrative, CBT, DBT, ACT, sports/performance literature.
Hello there! I am currently accepting new clients. I offer individual counselling and sports/ performance counselling to youth and adults. I'm passionate about supporting individuals as they navigate challenges, move through transitions, and pursue their values, in sport, work, relationship, creative, or personal pursuits. My primary goal as a therapist is to create a warm, caring, and non-judgmental environment, allowing clients to express themselves fully. My approach is humanistic, holistic, growth-oriented, and collaborative. Approaches I draw from include: humanistic/ narrative, CBT, DBT, ACT, sports/performance literature.
(825) 435-2048 View (825) 435-2048
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Dialectical 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.