Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Ancaster, ON
My experience of over 20 years informs my practice with a strength-based focus including CBT, DBT, ACT, Mindfulness, Self Compassion and trauma informed strategies.
Sometimes life can be difficult and these challenges can cause a sense of suffering in ourselves and those we care about. It can all feel overwhelming and exhausting, making it difficult to know what to do or where to turn for help. It takes courage to reach out for support so that you don’t have to suffer alone. Counselling can provide the opportunity to learn to share and process one’s struggles in a safe and non-judgemental space. Learning how to foster self-directed kindness and self-compassion can help nurture an individual’s personal growth and resilience.
My experience of over 20 years informs my practice with a strength-based focus including CBT, DBT, ACT, Mindfulness, Self Compassion and trauma informed strategies.
Sometimes life can be difficult and these challenges can cause a sense of suffering in ourselves and those we care about. It can all feel overwhelming and exhausting, making it difficult to know what to do or where to turn for help. It takes courage to reach out for support so that you don’t have to suffer alone. Counselling can provide the opportunity to learn to share and process one’s struggles in a safe and non-judgemental space. Learning how to foster self-directed kindness and self-compassion can help nurture an individual’s personal growth and resilience.
My approach to therapy involves integrating an individual's unique strengths with evidence-based therapeutic techniques. I specialize in providing therapy to children, adolescents, adults, and individuals living with a developmental disability. Drawing upon my experiences working in community-based and inpatient mental health services, I feel my role as a therapist is to provide a collaborative, personalized form of support that facilitates movement towards an individual's full potential. I utilize a number of techniques and therapies including Mindfulness, Trauma-informed care, Play-based therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
My approach to therapy involves integrating an individual's unique strengths with evidence-based therapeutic techniques. I specialize in providing therapy to children, adolescents, adults, and individuals living with a developmental disability. Drawing upon my experiences working in community-based and inpatient mental health services, I feel my role as a therapist is to provide a collaborative, personalized form of support that facilitates movement towards an individual's full potential. I utilize a number of techniques and therapies including Mindfulness, Trauma-informed care, Play-based therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Rachel Okoro
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, Dip HE, BSC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ancaster, ON L9G (Online Only)
Cognitive therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy , and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy as my core strengths.
I dedicated 17 years of my career to the mental health field, initially as a mental health nurse then transitioned to psychotherapy. Along this transformative journey, i developed a passion for addiction treatment, and trauma therapy, depression, and anxiety. My current clients say my skills I offer are practical and helpful! I am open to working with people who are struggling, feeling stuck, or emotionally tangled! Or just feel to vent, then we figure out what areas are keeping up from going forward. I would like to add value and see my clients flourish. No need to put up a facade, am open to help and most of all listen.
Cognitive therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy , and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy as my core strengths.
I dedicated 17 years of my career to the mental health field, initially as a mental health nurse then transitioned to psychotherapy. Along this transformative journey, i developed a passion for addiction treatment, and trauma therapy, depression, and anxiety. My current clients say my skills I offer are practical and helpful! I am open to working with people who are struggling, feeling stuck, or emotionally tangled! Or just feel to vent, then we figure out what areas are keeping up from going forward. I would like to add value and see my clients flourish. No need to put up a facade, am open to help and most of all listen.
I have training in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Trauma Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy and Bereavement Counselling.
I believe that every person has a desire to be their best self and live their best life. However there are times in life when you may be met with challenges, struggles or perhaps a personal crisis. Perhaps you feel you are struggling to cope. I believe in every person’s ability to heal, grow and recover. I believe therapy is a collaborative process, where we can work together to build insight, self awareness and skills.
I have training in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Trauma Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy and Bereavement Counselling.
I believe that every person has a desire to be their best self and live their best life. However there are times in life when you may be met with challenges, struggles or perhaps a personal crisis. Perhaps you feel you are struggling to cope. I believe in every person’s ability to heal, grow and recover. I believe therapy is a collaborative process, where we can work together to build insight, self awareness and skills.
Hands-on support for children, youth and adults coping with social challenges, ADHD, learning disabilities, anxiety and special needs. Male and Female Social Workers and Psychotherapist counselling available, DBT Skills Groups, Social Activities and more. Practical support including parenting strategies, on-site advocacy, support with paperwork/funding, on-site coaching, behavioural support programs, and personalized executive functioning programs and academic tutoring. We work around YOUR needs and YOUR schedule: off-hours, home visits, or attending meetings/appointments with you are all possible.
Hands-on support for children, youth and adults coping with social challenges, ADHD, learning disabilities, anxiety and special needs. Male and Female Social Workers and Psychotherapist counselling available, DBT Skills Groups, Social Activities and more. Practical support including parenting strategies, on-site advocacy, support with paperwork/funding, on-site coaching, behavioural support programs, and personalized executive functioning programs and academic tutoring. We work around YOUR needs and YOUR schedule: off-hours, home visits, or attending meetings/appointments with you are all possible.
Stacey Leger
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, AccFM, (OAFM)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ancaster, ON L9K
My belief is that therapy can create an opportunity for you to become an active participant in your life. Each session offers you the time to reflect on your values, focus on your goals and gain new perspective on challenging issues. Dedicating time to yourself, for yourself is the cornerstone to emotional well-being. In order to effectively support you in achieving your goals, I use an evidence-based and integrated approach to the therapeutic process. I utilize theory and skills from the following modalities; Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Emotional Focused Therapy and Emotion Focused FamilyTherapy
My belief is that therapy can create an opportunity for you to become an active participant in your life. Each session offers you the time to reflect on your values, focus on your goals and gain new perspective on challenging issues. Dedicating time to yourself, for yourself is the cornerstone to emotional well-being. In order to effectively support you in achieving your goals, I use an evidence-based and integrated approach to the therapeutic process. I utilize theory and skills from the following modalities; Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Emotional Focused Therapy and Emotion Focused FamilyTherapy
Holly Davis
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MACP, BA Hons, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ancaster, ON L9G
My approach draws upon emotion-focused, polyvagal theory (fight/flight), mindfulness (regulating the nervous system), CBT and DBT - to impact how thoughts, feelings, and behaviours can bring positive change.
I practice somatic EMDR and trauma-informed psychotherapy, which includes a mind-body inclusion to wellness, counselling for those who have been impacted by interpersonal trauma, loss, separation, parenting and other forms of life adversity. We all need connection in our lives. Connection to our loved ones, friends, ourselves and our therapist. As someone who is easy to talk with, I provide counselling to those who are struggling with life transitions, challenging circumstances, stress, burnout, generalized anxiety, depression, OCD and processing trauma from their present or past. Through a compassionate, collaborative approach, .
My approach draws upon emotion-focused, polyvagal theory (fight/flight), mindfulness (regulating the nervous system), CBT and DBT - to impact how thoughts, feelings, and behaviours can bring positive change.
I practice somatic EMDR and trauma-informed psychotherapy, which includes a mind-body inclusion to wellness, counselling for those who have been impacted by interpersonal trauma, loss, separation, parenting and other forms of life adversity. We all need connection in our lives. Connection to our loved ones, friends, ourselves and our therapist. As someone who is easy to talk with, I provide counselling to those who are struggling with life transitions, challenging circumstances, stress, burnout, generalized anxiety, depression, OCD and processing trauma from their present or past. Through a compassionate, collaborative approach, .
Erin Sunstrum - Daru Therapy Centre
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP, MEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ancaster, ON L9G
By respecting each client's uniqueness, I draw from therapies such as ACT, CBT, DBT, and PCT to help clients overcome challenges like: Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Trauma, Relational challenges, Behavioral issues, Attention issues, and Coping with daily life.
Specializing in Teens (14+), Young Adult Therapy and family therapy. I am committed to helping clients build resilience and create a value-driven life. I believe in nurturing self-compassion and developing skills to engage with and overcome struggles. This happens through validation, exploration, and challenge. This all starts with building a trusting, open relationship with my clients. With a client-centred approach, I am dedicated to staying up-to-date on current research through reading, consulting with colleagues, and learning from leaders in the field.
By respecting each client's uniqueness, I draw from therapies such as ACT, CBT, DBT, and PCT to help clients overcome challenges like: Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Trauma, Relational challenges, Behavioral issues, Attention issues, and Coping with daily life.
Specializing in Teens (14+), Young Adult Therapy and family therapy. I am committed to helping clients build resilience and create a value-driven life. I believe in nurturing self-compassion and developing skills to engage with and overcome struggles. This happens through validation, exploration, and challenge. This all starts with building a trusting, open relationship with my clients. With a client-centred approach, I am dedicated to staying up-to-date on current research through reading, consulting with colleagues, and learning from leaders in the field.
Enkeleda Nazaj-Bulovas
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ancaster, ON L9G
I have received specialized training in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), emotion focused therapy (EFT), dialectical behaviour therapy ( DBT), trauma informed care and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT).
My name is Enkeleda and I am a Registered Social Worker/ Psychotherapist. I specialize in trauma-informed therapeutic practice with children, adolescents and adults with complex mental health needs. I have experience working with clients who have diagnoses of major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety, social anxiety, ADHD, ODD, OCD and BPD. My goal as a social worker is to create a trustworthy relationship with my clients and to provide a safe, non-judgmental environment and offer guidance to help them heal, grow and accomplish their goals.
I have received specialized training in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), emotion focused therapy (EFT), dialectical behaviour therapy ( DBT), trauma informed care and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT).
My name is Enkeleda and I am a Registered Social Worker/ Psychotherapist. I specialize in trauma-informed therapeutic practice with children, adolescents and adults with complex mental health needs. I have experience working with clients who have diagnoses of major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety, social anxiety, ADHD, ODD, OCD and BPD. My goal as a social worker is to create a trustworthy relationship with my clients and to provide a safe, non-judgmental environment and offer guidance to help them heal, grow and accomplish their goals.
Turning Point Counselling Centre
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, CCC, RP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Ancaster, ON L8S
As a trauma therapist utilizing EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, DBT, and CBT, your personal growth and healing happen both on a physical and emotional level.
"Don't mistaken what you had to do or become too survive with who you are or what you are capable of achieving". If you seek a safe and validating space to explore your thoughts, feelings, and life experiences, you have found the right counsellor. As a trauma-focused therapist, I work with eating disorders, anxiety, depression, OCD, BPD, sexual harm, and all forms of mental health. My passion is helping youth, couples, and first responders, but I work with clients from all walks of life. I believe the therapeutic relationship is instrumental in reaching your therapy goals. I offer a free 10 mn phone call.
As a trauma therapist utilizing EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, DBT, and CBT, your personal growth and healing happen both on a physical and emotional level.
"Don't mistaken what you had to do or become too survive with who you are or what you are capable of achieving". If you seek a safe and validating space to explore your thoughts, feelings, and life experiences, you have found the right counsellor. As a trauma-focused therapist, I work with eating disorders, anxiety, depression, OCD, BPD, sexual harm, and all forms of mental health. My passion is helping youth, couples, and first responders, but I work with clients from all walks of life. I believe the therapeutic relationship is instrumental in reaching your therapy goals. I offer a free 10 mn phone call.
Clients have also been known to benefit from dialectical behavioural therapy, stress-management techniques and mindfulness exercises.
A warm welcome to my practice, Avenue Psychologist. Are you having personal difficulties or perhaps concerned about your child? Is there a family issue you're hoping to resolve? I am a Registered Clinical Psychologist and I work with children, adolescents, adults and families. I use individual therapy for anxiety, depression and other psychological disorders, and I use individual counselling and family-based therapeutic approaches to help clients cope with life transitions, behavioural problems and loss. My practice is located in West Brant, but currently I am using online services and am not holding any sessions in person.
Clients have also been known to benefit from dialectical behavioural therapy, stress-management techniques and mindfulness exercises.
A warm welcome to my practice, Avenue Psychologist. Are you having personal difficulties or perhaps concerned about your child? Is there a family issue you're hoping to resolve? I am a Registered Clinical Psychologist and I work with children, adolescents, adults and families. I use individual therapy for anxiety, depression and other psychological disorders, and I use individual counselling and family-based therapeutic approaches to help clients cope with life transitions, behavioural problems and loss. My practice is located in West Brant, but currently I am using online services and am not holding any sessions in person.
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Deanna MacArthur
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ancaster, ON L8S (Online Only)
My approach is rooted in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), but also draws on a wide range of perspectives that have been effective for empowering clients through their life challenges and transitions, including DBT and CBT.
Life often presents itself as a series of changes. Some of these changes lift us up, and some challenge us. If you are feeling unsettled by stresses in your life, wondering how to achieve more balance, meaning and purpose, counselling may help.
My approach is rooted in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), but also draws on a wide range of perspectives that have been effective for empowering clients through their life challenges and transitions, including DBT and CBT.
Life often presents itself as a series of changes. Some of these changes lift us up, and some challenge us. If you are feeling unsettled by stresses in your life, wondering how to achieve more balance, meaning and purpose, counselling may help.
I specialize in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy ( DBT), EFFT, and Supportive Parenting of Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE).
I specialize in supporting children, youth, young adults, families and caregivers through challenging times. I largely focus on supporting individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders. I also provide therapy for individuals experiencing a sudden loss or recent life change. I am passionate about walking alongside caregivers as they navigate their child’s mental health journey and strive to share new perspectives in situations that feel hopeless.
I specialize in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy ( DBT), EFFT, and Supportive Parenting of Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE).
I specialize in supporting children, youth, young adults, families and caregivers through challenging times. I largely focus on supporting individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders. I also provide therapy for individuals experiencing a sudden loss or recent life change. I am passionate about walking alongside caregivers as they navigate their child’s mental health journey and strive to share new perspectives in situations that feel hopeless.
Donnica Campbell
Registered Social Worker, CCIP, RSW, BSW
Verified Verified
Ancaster, ON L8S (Online Only)
In our journey together, I draw from a variety of therapeutic approaches, including Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused and Multicultural Therapy.
Embarking on a journey of healing is like taking steps toward a life of health and wellness. In my role, I strive to cultivate a nurturing environment where you can feel secure and embraced as you draw upon your inner strength, progressing towards a state of well-being. My mission involves crafting a space that encourages you to bring forth your true self without any reservations, fostering an atmosphere free from judgment or fear. With a foundation rooted in inclusive and trauma-informed practices, I aim to guide you towards recognizing your strengths and shaping a positive narrative.
In our journey together, I draw from a variety of therapeutic approaches, including Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused and Multicultural Therapy.
Embarking on a journey of healing is like taking steps toward a life of health and wellness. In my role, I strive to cultivate a nurturing environment where you can feel secure and embraced as you draw upon your inner strength, progressing towards a state of well-being. My mission involves crafting a space that encourages you to bring forth your true self without any reservations, fostering an atmosphere free from judgment or fear. With a foundation rooted in inclusive and trauma-informed practices, I aim to guide you towards recognizing your strengths and shaping a positive narrative.
I am skilled at treating adults who struggle with intense and unpredictable emotions using principles of Dialectical Behaviour Therapy ( DBT).
Have you been feeling overwhelmed, weighed down, confused by what you are feeling, attempting to manage intense emotions and don’t know how to cope? Have you been engaging in behaviours you’d like to change so you can live in alignment with your values? Have you been running out of hope? I am a registered Social Worker and Psychotherapist with over 10 years of experience providing individual therapy for trauma and stress-related disorders; depression; anxiety; emotion dysregulation; and complex mental health.
I am skilled at treating adults who struggle with intense and unpredictable emotions using principles of Dialectical Behaviour Therapy ( DBT).
Have you been feeling overwhelmed, weighed down, confused by what you are feeling, attempting to manage intense emotions and don’t know how to cope? Have you been engaging in behaviours you’d like to change so you can live in alignment with your values? Have you been running out of hope? I am a registered Social Worker and Psychotherapist with over 10 years of experience providing individual therapy for trauma and stress-related disorders; depression; anxiety; emotion dysregulation; and complex mental health.
Primarily, my approaches include Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy ( DBT), and Solution-Focused approaches.
Psychotherapy can be a scary thing, so my goal is always to help make my clients feel comfortable and safe to be vulnerable with me. I work with all types of individual; children (ages 7+), teens and adults, who are coming in with a variety of mental health concerns including; Anxiety, Depression, Self-Harm, Trauma, ADHD, ODD, OCD, and other complex mental health issues. I take joy in helping my clients make breakthroughs in their individualized goals and treatment.
Primarily, my approaches include Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy ( DBT), and Solution-Focused approaches.
Psychotherapy can be a scary thing, so my goal is always to help make my clients feel comfortable and safe to be vulnerable with me. I work with all types of individual; children (ages 7+), teens and adults, who are coming in with a variety of mental health concerns including; Anxiety, Depression, Self-Harm, Trauma, ADHD, ODD, OCD, and other complex mental health issues. I take joy in helping my clients make breakthroughs in their individualized goals and treatment.
My approach is client-centred and I draw upon Family Systems theory, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, EFFT, EMDR, and Mindfulness in work with clients.
Emotional pain hurts: not knowing when or even if it will end! The distress we go through in a lifetime from so many sources can feel unbearable at times. I work with people at all Ages & Stages to lift out of Depression, learn to regulate strong emotions such as Anxiety, Anger, Shame, & Grief; Relationship problems; Parenting struggles; processing Trauma; caring for Elderly; issues with aging and health; Work/school Stress; improving Youth mental health. I aim to create a safe & supportive therapeutic relationship with warmth, compassion, & humour. Mindfully strengthen your inner resources to live life with more ease and connection
My approach is client-centred and I draw upon Family Systems theory, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, EFFT, EMDR, and Mindfulness in work with clients.
Emotional pain hurts: not knowing when or even if it will end! The distress we go through in a lifetime from so many sources can feel unbearable at times. I work with people at all Ages & Stages to lift out of Depression, learn to regulate strong emotions such as Anxiety, Anger, Shame, & Grief; Relationship problems; Parenting struggles; processing Trauma; caring for Elderly; issues with aging and health; Work/school Stress; improving Youth mental health. I aim to create a safe & supportive therapeutic relationship with warmth, compassion, & humour. Mindfully strengthen your inner resources to live life with more ease and connection
Andrea Zahra Therapy and Counselling Services
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, BSW
Verified Verified
Ancaster, ON L9G
I draw from evidence-based practices that include cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), mindfulness practice, trauma informed practice including dialectical behaviour therapy ( DBT), and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR).
I consider it a privilege every single time someone welcomes me to share in their therapeutic process. My intention is to bring authenticity, empathy and non-judgemental guidance to the room. I believe that therapy is a very personal experience for each of my clients, so I try to enter the therapeutic relationship as a 'clean slate', free of judgement or any agenda other than what they want or need in their healing. In my practice, I work from an anti-oppressive, client-focused, strength-based framework and believe that therapy is a collaborative process and that you are the expert of your experience.
I draw from evidence-based practices that include cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), mindfulness practice, trauma informed practice including dialectical behaviour therapy ( DBT), and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR).
I consider it a privilege every single time someone welcomes me to share in their therapeutic process. My intention is to bring authenticity, empathy and non-judgemental guidance to the room. I believe that therapy is a very personal experience for each of my clients, so I try to enter the therapeutic relationship as a 'clean slate', free of judgement or any agenda other than what they want or need in their healing. In my practice, I work from an anti-oppressive, client-focused, strength-based framework and believe that therapy is a collaborative process and that you are the expert of your experience.
I use the Gottman method with couples and I use therapies such as EMDR, DBT and CBT to assist other clients in feeling empowered.
It's not just you. You're not alone! The last few years have been extra hard. Having a safe place to decompress, receive validation and learn new skills can make things easier. We all have the ability to heal ourselves, but any kind of therapy is hard work. I work with families experiencing relational issues and couples who need to learn or relearn how to work together. The end goal is different for each client, but we will work together to get you to a spot where you feel at ease. For those suffering with trauma or anxiety, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is offered as well.
I use the Gottman method with couples and I use therapies such as EMDR, DBT and CBT to assist other clients in feeling empowered.
It's not just you. You're not alone! The last few years have been extra hard. Having a safe place to decompress, receive validation and learn new skills can make things easier. We all have the ability to heal ourselves, but any kind of therapy is hard work. I work with families experiencing relational issues and couples who need to learn or relearn how to work together. The end goal is different for each client, but we will work together to get you to a spot where you feel at ease. For those suffering with trauma or anxiety, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is offered as well.
Lesley Erin Dishke
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd , RP, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ancaster, ON L9G (Online Only)
I have extensive training in CBT, ACT, DBT, emotion-focused, mindfulness-based and motivational interviewing.
During times of stress, we are all pulled to find ways to cope. Sometimes these coping strategies pull us in a positive direction. Other times, they keep us feeling stuck or hopeless things will ever change. I support my clients to build awareness, understanding, a sense of self-worth and most importantly, confidence, while mastering the skills necessary to move forward in their lives.
I have extensive training in CBT, ACT, DBT, emotion-focused, mindfulness-based and motivational interviewing.
During times of stress, we are all pulled to find ways to cope. Sometimes these coping strategies pull us in a positive direction. Other times, they keep us feeling stuck or hopeless things will ever change. I support my clients to build awareness, understanding, a sense of self-worth and most importantly, confidence, while mastering the skills necessary to move forward in their lives.
See more therapy options for Ancaster
Nearby Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Counsellors Searches for Ancaster
- Brantford
- Burlington
- Caledonia
- Cambridge
- Cayuga
- Dundas
- Grimsby
- Hagersville
- Hamilton
- Oakville
- Port Dover
- Stoney Creek
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.