Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in York, ON

Photo of Jane Theriault, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Jane Theriault
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
York, ON M6E  (Online Only)
I have trained in several evidence-based modalities including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing, and am passionate about offering support to a variety of individuals including those who are healing from sexual violence, trauma, grief and loss, and those with substance use concerns.
Whether you are reaching out for the first time or looking for a new therapist, I am here to offer my support and guidance. With warmth and understanding, I aim to assist you in exploring the twists and turns of your thoughts and feelings, making the journey to well-being a little easier.
I have trained in several evidence-based modalities including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing, and am passionate about offering support to a variety of individuals including those who are healing from sexual violence, trauma, grief and loss, and those with substance use concerns.
Whether you are reaching out for the first time or looking for a new therapist, I am here to offer my support and guidance. With warmth and understanding, I aim to assist you in exploring the twists and turns of your thoughts and feelings, making the journey to well-being a little easier.
(647) 559-6187 View (647) 559-6187
Photo of Gillian Saunders, MSW, RSW, CSAT(C), Registered Social Worker
Gillian Saunders
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CSAT(C)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
York, ON M5P  (Online Only)
Trained in EMDR, brainspotting, CBT, DBT and CPT, there is not a one size fits all approach.
Welcome! Like most of us, you are likely juggling work, family and other responsibilities. My goal as a therapist is not to keep you in therapy forever, but to help you overcome obstacles that are getting in the way of being the best version of you. The clients I work with live busy lives, both personally and professional and often either grappling with addiction, or are closely linked to someone that may be struggling. My hope is to assist you in discovering and naming these challenges, process and find closure around them, while working towards your transformation to be free of shame, distress and difficult memories.
Trained in EMDR, brainspotting, CBT, DBT and CPT, there is not a one size fits all approach.
Welcome! Like most of us, you are likely juggling work, family and other responsibilities. My goal as a therapist is not to keep you in therapy forever, but to help you overcome obstacles that are getting in the way of being the best version of you. The clients I work with live busy lives, both personally and professional and often either grappling with addiction, or are closely linked to someone that may be struggling. My hope is to assist you in discovering and naming these challenges, process and find closure around them, while working towards your transformation to be free of shame, distress and difficult memories.
(647) 560-7714 View (647) 560-7714
Photo of Asher Faerstein, MEd, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Asher Faerstein
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MEd
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
York, ON M5P
I draw on various therapeutic models, integrating principles and techniques from relational psychodynamic theory, dialectical behaviour therapy ( DBT), cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), attachment theory, and mindfulness/somatic practices.
Encountering painful moments and periods of hardship is inevitable and can bring us into contact with the most fundamental parts of ourselves. I am interested in working with you to explore these moments with curiosity and self-compassion. Healing is a nonlinear process that takes time, and some things may always be unresolved; I see therapy as a safe space to collaboratively explore and articulate different facets of your experience, set therapeutic goals, and work together to create desired changes.
I draw on various therapeutic models, integrating principles and techniques from relational psychodynamic theory, dialectical behaviour therapy ( DBT), cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), attachment theory, and mindfulness/somatic practices.
Encountering painful moments and periods of hardship is inevitable and can bring us into contact with the most fundamental parts of ourselves. I am interested in working with you to explore these moments with curiosity and self-compassion. Healing is a nonlinear process that takes time, and some things may always be unresolved; I see therapy as a safe space to collaboratively explore and articulate different facets of your experience, set therapeutic goals, and work together to create desired changes.
(437) 291-7547 View (437) 291-7547
Photo of Keritha Andrews, Registered Psychotherapist
Keritha Andrews
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
York, ON M6E  (Online Only)
What is keeping you from experiencing joy and happiness? Do you find yourself angry all the time? Do you know where your anger is coming from? What factors are contributing to your angers? How do you cope with your anger? What patterns are keeping you stuck and why? Stress, anger, sadness and fear is telling you something. If you ignore them what are the consequences on your work-life balanced, physical health and overall relationships.
What is keeping you from experiencing joy and happiness? Do you find yourself angry all the time? Do you know where your anger is coming from? What factors are contributing to your angers? How do you cope with your anger? What patterns are keeping you stuck and why? Stress, anger, sadness and fear is telling you something. If you ignore them what are the consequences on your work-life balanced, physical health and overall relationships.
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Photo of Julia Yu, MEd, MSc, Registered Psychotherapist
Julia Yu
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, MSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
York, ON M5P
We all need a space where we can be ourselves. When walking alone gets hard, therapy can help us restore our sense of self and make life manageable again. Stepping into this space can look like many things: being curious about ourselves, making meaning out of painful experiences, coming into connection with vital feelings and needs, and understanding and respecting the parts of you that you want to change. For some of us, healing can only happen in a space that acknowledges the impacts of marginalization and the need for systemic change. From here, we can begin to find new ways of being in the world that honour all of who we are.
We all need a space where we can be ourselves. When walking alone gets hard, therapy can help us restore our sense of self and make life manageable again. Stepping into this space can look like many things: being curious about ourselves, making meaning out of painful experiences, coming into connection with vital feelings and needs, and understanding and respecting the parts of you that you want to change. For some of us, healing can only happen in a space that acknowledges the impacts of marginalization and the need for systemic change. From here, we can begin to find new ways of being in the world that honour all of who we are.
(289) 216-6860 View (289) 216-6860
Photo of Sandra Sassa, MSW, BSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Sandra Sassa
Registered Social Worker, MSW, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
York, ON M6M
Spécialisée dans l'accompagnement de personnes francophones, notamment issues des communautés noires et marginalisées. Création d'un espace inclusif et sécuritaire pour développer la résilience émotionnelle et atteindre la réalisation personnelle. Specializing in supporting Francophone individuals, particularly from Black and marginalized communities. Creating a safe and inclusive space to build emotional resilience and achieve personal fulfillment.
Spécialisée dans l'accompagnement de personnes francophones, notamment issues des communautés noires et marginalisées. Création d'un espace inclusif et sécuritaire pour développer la résilience émotionnelle et atteindre la réalisation personnelle. Specializing in supporting Francophone individuals, particularly from Black and marginalized communities. Creating a safe and inclusive space to build emotional resilience and achieve personal fulfillment.
(647) 691-8534 View (647) 691-8534
Photo of Renuka Gupta Phd - International Healers Association, PhD, RP, CHT, PLRT, HART, Registered Psychotherapist
International Healers Association
Registered Psychotherapist, PhD, RP, CHT, PLRT, HART
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
York, ON M6N  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Outside are just manifestations, all creations are within - Rens . We as an IHA Team are trained in Clinical / Counseling Psychology & have always been a believer of something far beyond Science i.e. Spirituality, which is why we feel deeply that, the ones who find us and eventually come to us, were destined. Our work is a mix of Science as well as Psychotherapy Integrated. Working towards Awareness, finding Purpose, Acceptance, Observing, eventually leading to Healing, has been the path we walk on. Remember : You are not just a part of Creation,the Creator of every part is you. Email us. :-) Blessings & Healing !
Outside are just manifestations, all creations are within - Rens . We as an IHA Team are trained in Clinical / Counseling Psychology & have always been a believer of something far beyond Science i.e. Spirituality, which is why we feel deeply that, the ones who find us and eventually come to us, were destined. Our work is a mix of Science as well as Psychotherapy Integrated. Working towards Awareness, finding Purpose, Acceptance, Observing, eventually leading to Healing, has been the path we walk on. Remember : You are not just a part of Creation,the Creator of every part is you. Email us. :-) Blessings & Healing !
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Photo of Marlee Rubel, MEd, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Marlee Rubel
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
York, ON M6C  (Online Only)
I work with adults and couples to help them move towards a state of continued growth, compassion, and self-awareness in a way that is collaborative, strengths-based, and empowering. I believe in creating a client-therapist relationship that fosters authenticity, support, and space for both acceptance, and for change. This can begin in our very first session. Together, we can begin to tease apart the adaptive approaches to dealing with and moving through life you've grown accustomed to, and begin to decipher which of these patterns are serving you, and which you may be interested in moving beyond.
I work with adults and couples to help them move towards a state of continued growth, compassion, and self-awareness in a way that is collaborative, strengths-based, and empowering. I believe in creating a client-therapist relationship that fosters authenticity, support, and space for both acceptance, and for change. This can begin in our very first session. Together, we can begin to tease apart the adaptive approaches to dealing with and moving through life you've grown accustomed to, and begin to decipher which of these patterns are serving you, and which you may be interested in moving beyond.
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Photo of Sarah Wash, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Sarah Wash
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
York, ON M6S
Sarah works with adults (from ages 17+) who are experiencing challenges in their lives. With a background in community mental health, Sarah has supported clients with challenges including anxiety, low mood, borderline personality disorder, interpersonal stressors, grief and bereavement, trauma, and more. Sarah also has experience working with clients from diverse walks of life, including individuals who are neurodiverse, part of the LGBTQ2S+ community, and who come from various socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds.
Sarah works with adults (from ages 17+) who are experiencing challenges in their lives. With a background in community mental health, Sarah has supported clients with challenges including anxiety, low mood, borderline personality disorder, interpersonal stressors, grief and bereavement, trauma, and more. Sarah also has experience working with clients from diverse walks of life, including individuals who are neurodiverse, part of the LGBTQ2S+ community, and who come from various socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds.
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Photo of Marta Leskiv, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Marta Leskiv
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
York, ON M5P
Change can be scary, however, growth lies in discomfort. Leveraging a diverse set of techniques refined over years of clinical practice, I strive to uncover the underlying issues that may be influencing your overall wellbeing. Whether the problem feels small or big, old or new; I am open to bringing it into the room for closer observation and deeper discovery. Everyone has the capacity to change their lives. I recognize that we are each more than just our family, our relationships, our biology, or our circumstances, but also understand that our connection to each of these may profoundly impact our sense of wellbeing.
Change can be scary, however, growth lies in discomfort. Leveraging a diverse set of techniques refined over years of clinical practice, I strive to uncover the underlying issues that may be influencing your overall wellbeing. Whether the problem feels small or big, old or new; I am open to bringing it into the room for closer observation and deeper discovery. Everyone has the capacity to change their lives. I recognize that we are each more than just our family, our relationships, our biology, or our circumstances, but also understand that our connection to each of these may profoundly impact our sense of wellbeing.
(437) 600-9624 View (437) 600-9624
Photo of Wayne Gray, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Wayne Gray
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
York, ON M6C  (Online Only)
Wayne supports youth and adults seeking help rediscovering their self-worth, fortifying challenging relationships, removing hurdles that intensify substance dependence, or living with a mental health diagnosis. With over a decade of experience in community mental health and substance use, Wayne is able to address addiction, chronic stress, insecurity, depression and anxiety, and other mental health challenges. Couples therapy work has also been a particular passion for Wayne. He can support you in exploring and refining communication, context, compromise, and chemistry.
Wayne supports youth and adults seeking help rediscovering their self-worth, fortifying challenging relationships, removing hurdles that intensify substance dependence, or living with a mental health diagnosis. With over a decade of experience in community mental health and substance use, Wayne is able to address addiction, chronic stress, insecurity, depression and anxiety, and other mental health challenges. Couples therapy work has also been a particular passion for Wayne. He can support you in exploring and refining communication, context, compromise, and chemistry.
(437) 500-6299 View (437) 500-6299

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Leah Goldstein - Leah Goldstein- UpLift Therapy for Men, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Leah Goldstein- UpLift Therapy for Men
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8V  (Online Only)
This may include person-centered therapy, CBT, ACT, DBT, and more.
I value creating a space free from judgment, where you can safely explore your experiences and develop skills for life's challenges. You may be struggling with daily life stressors and/or struggling to adapt. You may be unsure what is driving certain behaviours or familiar with feeling stuck. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or simply wanting a new perspective, I'm here to support you as we find clarity and movement towards change.
This may include person-centered therapy, CBT, ACT, DBT, and more.
I value creating a space free from judgment, where you can safely explore your experiences and develop skills for life's challenges. You may be struggling with daily life stressors and/or struggling to adapt. You may be unsure what is driving certain behaviours or familiar with feeling stuck. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or simply wanting a new perspective, I'm here to support you as we find clarity and movement towards change.
(647) 931-8117 View (647) 931-8117
Photo of Simranjit Singh Chhabra - Sim Chhabra Psychotherapy, MA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Sim Chhabra Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M8V
I apply evidence-based modalities, including Solution Focus Brief Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, and Trauma-informed Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, towards emotional regulation, self-development, anxiety and stress management. I am fluent in Hindi, with effective communication and cultural sensitivity for a diverse clientele.
I apply evidence-based modalities, including Solution Focus Brief Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, and Trauma-informed Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, towards emotional regulation, self-development, anxiety and stress management. I am fluent in Hindi, with effective communication and cultural sensitivity for a diverse clientele.
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Photo of Fiona Downie, MEd, CPsych, Psychologist
Fiona Downie
Psychologist, MEd, CPsych
Verified Verified
Etobicoke, ON M8V
As a Clinical Psychologist, registered with the College of Psychologists of Ontario, and the Newfoundland and Labrador Psychology Board, I provide assessment and therapy including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy ( DBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Prolonged Exposure (PE) and mindfulness based approaches, for a range of difficulties including eating disorders (e.g. anorexia, binge eating disorder), anxiety (e.g. panic disorder, social phobia), trauma (e.g. PTSD), depression, borderline personality disorder (BPD) and emotional dysregulation.
As a Clinical Psychologist, registered with the College of Psychologists of Ontario, and the Newfoundland and Labrador Psychology Board, I provide assessment and therapy including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy ( DBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Prolonged Exposure (PE) and mindfulness based approaches, for a range of difficulties including eating disorders (e.g. anorexia, binge eating disorder), anxiety (e.g. panic disorder, social phobia), trauma (e.g. PTSD), depression, borderline personality disorder (BPD) and emotional dysregulation.
(647) 492-5835 View (647) 492-5835
Photo of Sabrina Giralico, MA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Sabrina Giralico
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8X
I utilize Emotion focused therapy, DBT, CBT, ACT, Client-Centered care and strengths-based therapies.
Are you feeling low, anxious, burnt out, stressed, or overwhelmed? Have you faced something traumatic, leading to feelings of shame, distrust, guilt, and anger? Are you struggling in your relationships? I first want to commend you for taking this initial step at seeking support. Your vulnerability, resilience, and strength are honorable. I want to work alongside you at finding empowerment, compassion, and desired change in your life. Together, we can understand your many emotions, while showing them empathy and care.. I hope to provide you with the tools to heal childhood wounds and find internal balance.
I utilize Emotion focused therapy, DBT, CBT, ACT, Client-Centered care and strengths-based therapies.
Are you feeling low, anxious, burnt out, stressed, or overwhelmed? Have you faced something traumatic, leading to feelings of shame, distrust, guilt, and anger? Are you struggling in your relationships? I first want to commend you for taking this initial step at seeking support. Your vulnerability, resilience, and strength are honorable. I want to work alongside you at finding empowerment, compassion, and desired change in your life. Together, we can understand your many emotions, while showing them empathy and care.. I hope to provide you with the tools to heal childhood wounds and find internal balance.
(289) 301-8688 View (289) 301-8688
Photo of Madelin Donovan, RP, MACP, BScH, Registered Psychotherapist
Madelin Donovan
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP, BScH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8Z
My approach includes techniques from Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy ( DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) and mindfulness-based practices, but together, we can develop an approach that aligns with your unique needs.
Welcome. You may have landed here because you're feeling a bit lost, stuck, or uncertain, or perhaps you're considering change in your life and curious to explore the possibilities. Let’s work together to (re)discover your strengths, values, and goals, and navigate your path forward. I offer individual counselling for challenges including anxiety, depression, stress, grief, life transitions, self-esteem, relationship struggles, and perfectionism. I offer couples' counselling to help couples identify unhelpful patterns in their relationship and build more adaptive patterns to deepen their bond.
My approach includes techniques from Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy ( DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) and mindfulness-based practices, but together, we can develop an approach that aligns with your unique needs.
Welcome. You may have landed here because you're feeling a bit lost, stuck, or uncertain, or perhaps you're considering change in your life and curious to explore the possibilities. Let’s work together to (re)discover your strengths, values, and goals, and navigate your path forward. I offer individual counselling for challenges including anxiety, depression, stress, grief, life transitions, self-esteem, relationship struggles, and perfectionism. I offer couples' counselling to help couples identify unhelpful patterns in their relationship and build more adaptive patterns to deepen their bond.
(289) 271-1653 View (289) 271-1653
Photo of Samantha Pockele, MA, MACP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Samantha Pockele
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9B  (Online Only)
These include Trauma Informed, CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, Harm Reduction, Narrative Therapy, Mindfulness, Solutions Focused and Recovery focused models of treatment.
I am a neurodivergent, queer woman with a keen focus on the social determinants of mental health. My approach is rooted in empathy and I come from a place of non-judgment, compassion, and celebration of your resiliency. Be prepared to laugh when you didn't expect to, and to have a meaningful time rewriting your story with me. Populations that I work with include Indigenous Canadians, LGBTQIA2+ persons, trans-identified and gender diverse folks and their families (including chosen families), and clients with a history of trauma. I work with youth, adults, romantic/sexual partnerships, and families.
These include Trauma Informed, CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, Harm Reduction, Narrative Therapy, Mindfulness, Solutions Focused and Recovery focused models of treatment.
I am a neurodivergent, queer woman with a keen focus on the social determinants of mental health. My approach is rooted in empathy and I come from a place of non-judgment, compassion, and celebration of your resiliency. Be prepared to laugh when you didn't expect to, and to have a meaningful time rewriting your story with me. Populations that I work with include Indigenous Canadians, LGBTQIA2+ persons, trans-identified and gender diverse folks and their families (including chosen families), and clients with a history of trauma. I work with youth, adults, romantic/sexual partnerships, and families.
(289) 272-6195 View (289) 272-6195
Photo of Becca Southcott, MA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Becca Southcott
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8W  (Online Only)
I use a blend of Cognitive Behavioural and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy to assess your needs, develop goals, and build treatment plans.
If you're feeling anxious, depressed, or struggling to manage your emotions, I'm here for you. Whether you're feeling impacted by your career, relationships, or internal conflicts, it's important to know that you do not have to go through this alone. The world is a difficult place to navigate. It can feel as though there is little room for genuine reflection and growth, but that is what I will provide for you. If you want a safe space to process, reflect, challenge, and grow past your struggles, therapy is for you!
I use a blend of Cognitive Behavioural and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy to assess your needs, develop goals, and build treatment plans.
If you're feeling anxious, depressed, or struggling to manage your emotions, I'm here for you. Whether you're feeling impacted by your career, relationships, or internal conflicts, it's important to know that you do not have to go through this alone. The world is a difficult place to navigate. It can feel as though there is little room for genuine reflection and growth, but that is what I will provide for you. If you want a safe space to process, reflect, challenge, and grow past your struggles, therapy is for you!
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Photo of Nancy (Xuan) Ji, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Nancy (Xuan) Ji
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Etobicoke, ON M8Z
I draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Attachment-Focused Family Therapy, Trauma-Informed Practice, and Mindfulness-based therapies.
Do you struggle with challenging thoughts or with your relationships? Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or self-criticism, blocking your path to joy and ease? It’s okay to feel this way, and you are not alone. I am here to help you in managing anxiety and creating a healthier relationship with your thoughts. Together, we will embrace a journey of self-discovery, learning to treat yourself with acceptance, curiosity and empathy - a crucial step to better connect with yourself and others.
I draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Attachment-Focused Family Therapy, Trauma-Informed Practice, and Mindfulness-based therapies.
Do you struggle with challenging thoughts or with your relationships? Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or self-criticism, blocking your path to joy and ease? It’s okay to feel this way, and you are not alone. I am here to help you in managing anxiety and creating a healthier relationship with your thoughts. Together, we will embrace a journey of self-discovery, learning to treat yourself with acceptance, curiosity and empathy - a crucial step to better connect with yourself and others.
(365) 544-3532 x375 View (365) 544-3532 x375
Photo of Amanda-Lee Pearse, BSW, MA, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Amanda-Lee Pearse
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MA, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8Y
I work from a Trauma informed, feminist perspective using Solution Focused, Narrative, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy approaches.
Are you running on empty? Bending every which way to fit everyone’s expectations of you? Are you unsure of what you want for yourself? What if there was a way to quiet your inner critic, identify and prioritize your own needs without apology, and let go of doubt, guilt and shame in order to move forward? With over 15 years of clinical experience, I can provide you with the therapeutic support you need to not only identify the changes you want to see in your life but implement and maintain them. I can support you with issues related to Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, gender and sexual identity, and various life transitions.
I work from a Trauma informed, feminist perspective using Solution Focused, Narrative, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy approaches.
Are you running on empty? Bending every which way to fit everyone’s expectations of you? Are you unsure of what you want for yourself? What if there was a way to quiet your inner critic, identify and prioritize your own needs without apology, and let go of doubt, guilt and shame in order to move forward? With over 15 years of clinical experience, I can provide you with the therapeutic support you need to not only identify the changes you want to see in your life but implement and maintain them. I can support you with issues related to Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, gender and sexual identity, and various life transitions.
(289) 236-9836 View (289) 236-9836

See more therapy options for York

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.