Dialectical Behaviour (DBT) Counselling in Stafford

Photo of Dr Suzanne Roberts, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Dr Suzanne Roberts
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Stafford ST18
The evidence-based therapies I am trained in include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy ( DBT), Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR), Schema Therapy and Attachment-based Psychotherapy.
My name is Suzanne and I worked as a Registered Nurse in the NHS for over 20 years and trained as an Integrative Psychotherapist in 2014, working in a range of settings including the NHS, with an array of psychological difficulties. I provide both short and long-term therapy and my approach integrates a range of effective therapeutic interventions tailored to meet the needs of the client. Within the private sector I work with adults with a range of psychological difficulties including anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, grief, health issues and relationship difficulties. I work with NHS clients affected by physical health issues.
The evidence-based therapies I am trained in include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy ( DBT), Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR), Schema Therapy and Attachment-based Psychotherapy.
My name is Suzanne and I worked as a Registered Nurse in the NHS for over 20 years and trained as an Integrative Psychotherapist in 2014, working in a range of settings including the NHS, with an array of psychological difficulties. I provide both short and long-term therapy and my approach integrates a range of effective therapeutic interventions tailored to meet the needs of the client. Within the private sector I work with adults with a range of psychological difficulties including anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, grief, health issues and relationship difficulties. I work with NHS clients affected by physical health issues.
01902 951901 View 01902 951901
Photo of Dr Natalie Elizabeth Byrne, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Natalie Elizabeth Byrne
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Stafford ST18
I am passionate about working with adults and have over 20 years experience working with people in distress. I have experience of working with people with a range of emotional and mental health problems, including complex trauma, anxiety disorders, depression, low self-esteem and psychosis. My aim is to help people take steps along their journey of recovery to a healthier and happier future where people can truly begin living the life they want to live. I work in an integrative way enabling me to work with people to develop a therapy plan which is most likely to help them make positive steps towards their therapy goals.
I am passionate about working with adults and have over 20 years experience working with people in distress. I have experience of working with people with a range of emotional and mental health problems, including complex trauma, anxiety disorders, depression, low self-esteem and psychosis. My aim is to help people take steps along their journey of recovery to a healthier and happier future where people can truly begin living the life they want to live. I work in an integrative way enabling me to work with people to develop a therapy plan which is most likely to help them make positive steps towards their therapy goals.
01785 904515 View 01785 904515
Photo of Dr Joanna Saddington, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Joanna Saddington
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Stafford ST19
Hello, my name is Dr Joanna Saddington. I qualified as a Clinical Psychologist in 2006. Before setting up in private practice I worked in the NHS for 18 years. I am passionate about helping adults, young people, children and families overcome their difficulties. We all know life can be challenging, so it doesn't matter whether a problem is longstanding or is more recent. What is important, is that we work together to try to solve it. I always aim to work in a way that suits the individual and their needs, as well as aiming to deliver therapy empathetically and without judgment.
Hello, my name is Dr Joanna Saddington. I qualified as a Clinical Psychologist in 2006. Before setting up in private practice I worked in the NHS for 18 years. I am passionate about helping adults, young people, children and families overcome their difficulties. We all know life can be challenging, so it doesn't matter whether a problem is longstanding or is more recent. What is important, is that we work together to try to solve it. I always aim to work in a way that suits the individual and their needs, as well as aiming to deliver therapy empathetically and without judgment.
01543 220373 View 01543 220373
Photo of Alan James Naughton, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Alan James Naughton
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Stafford ST16
Life is not straightforward and sometimes overwhelming. Often we know what our difficulties are, sometimes we don't. I offer a friendly, supportive environment in which to talk about what matters most to you, and find ways to move forward. I am a psychotherapist working for Prohealth UK (www.prohealthuk.org) and privately. I have worked in varied settings, providing psychotherapy services for NHS patients, Staffordshire Fire & Police Service, Staffordshire County Council, East Staffs Borough Council, Salford Hospital and local charity.
Life is not straightforward and sometimes overwhelming. Often we know what our difficulties are, sometimes we don't. I offer a friendly, supportive environment in which to talk about what matters most to you, and find ways to move forward. I am a psychotherapist working for Prohealth UK (www.prohealthuk.org) and privately. I have worked in varied settings, providing psychotherapy services for NHS patients, Staffordshire Fire & Police Service, Staffordshire County Council, East Staffs Borough Council, Salford Hospital and local charity.
01543 399608 View 01543 399608
Photo of Lenna Lanza - Lenna Lanza CBT, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Lenna Lanza CBT
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stafford ST16  (Online Only)
Hello my name is Lenna. I am an Accredited Cognitive Behavioral Therapist (CBT), Mental Health Nurse and CBT supervisor. I work online with clients nation wide and in Europe. Are you ready to make a step to tackle upsetting and distressing problems. I will create a comfortable, safe, confidential, therapeutic space to help you explore and understand your challenges. We can work together to achieve your health and wellbeing goals. CBT will help you to develop individualised skills and tools that are tailored to you and your lifestyle for you use in the years to come.
Hello my name is Lenna. I am an Accredited Cognitive Behavioral Therapist (CBT), Mental Health Nurse and CBT supervisor. I work online with clients nation wide and in Europe. Are you ready to make a step to tackle upsetting and distressing problems. I will create a comfortable, safe, confidential, therapeutic space to help you explore and understand your challenges. We can work together to achieve your health and wellbeing goals. CBT will help you to develop individualised skills and tools that are tailored to you and your lifestyle for you use in the years to come.
01782 890227 View 01782 890227
Photo of Stephanie Dunning - Peace of Mind Wellbeing, MSc, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Peace of Mind Wellbeing
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Stafford ST16
Peace of Mind Wellbeing offers therapeutic support and mental health intervention to Children, Young People and Adults, presenting with psychological difficulties such as Depression, Anxiety, OCD, PTSD, Social Anxiety, Specific Phobias, Childhood Trauma, Relationship difficulties and Low Self Esteem. Peace of Mind Wellbeing also offers couples therapy and family therapy, alongside training packages to other professionals, family and friends, to support their understanding of different psychological difficulties, how they present and how they can appropriately offer their support.
Peace of Mind Wellbeing offers therapeutic support and mental health intervention to Children, Young People and Adults, presenting with psychological difficulties such as Depression, Anxiety, OCD, PTSD, Social Anxiety, Specific Phobias, Childhood Trauma, Relationship difficulties and Low Self Esteem. Peace of Mind Wellbeing also offers couples therapy and family therapy, alongside training packages to other professionals, family and friends, to support their understanding of different psychological difficulties, how they present and how they can appropriately offer their support.
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Photo of Jo Shenton, MBACP, Counsellor
Jo Shenton
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Stafford ST17
Welcome. Are you here because you are struggling with something in your life and need some help and support? Perhaps you are experiencing some symptoms of depression, anxiety, stress, trauma or addiction? Or something else? Would you like someone to listen to you in a confidential, safe place, without judgement? Are you interested in improving your confidence and increasing your self-esteem? Life can really test us at times and we may be unable to find the answers within ourselves or indeed from our family and friends.
Welcome. Are you here because you are struggling with something in your life and need some help and support? Perhaps you are experiencing some symptoms of depression, anxiety, stress, trauma or addiction? Or something else? Would you like someone to listen to you in a confidential, safe place, without judgement? Are you interested in improving your confidence and increasing your self-esteem? Life can really test us at times and we may be unable to find the answers within ourselves or indeed from our family and friends.
01782 983532 View 01782 983532
Photo of Dr Andy Adams, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Andy Adams
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Stafford ST16  (Online Only)
I have over 14 years clinical experience, working with clients in England, Wales, Scotland and Canada! I work in both the NHS and in private practice, in a wide range of roles from Adult mental health to children and adolescent mental health. I have worked successfully with clients struggling with numerous mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma-related issues, grief and loss, eating disorders, addictions, OCD, perinatal challenges, and sleep disorders. With child and adolescent mental health, I offer therapy and can provide a comprehensive assessment for ASD, ADHD, and other neurodiverse issues.
I have over 14 years clinical experience, working with clients in England, Wales, Scotland and Canada! I work in both the NHS and in private practice, in a wide range of roles from Adult mental health to children and adolescent mental health. I have worked successfully with clients struggling with numerous mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma-related issues, grief and loss, eating disorders, addictions, OCD, perinatal challenges, and sleep disorders. With child and adolescent mental health, I offer therapy and can provide a comprehensive assessment for ASD, ADHD, and other neurodiverse issues.
01538 710704 View 01538 710704

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Robert Young, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Robert Young
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Cannock WS11  (Online Only)
Life is overwhelming at times, we can be suffering with specific issues such as depression, anxiety, loss, just to name a few. We can also feel confused sometimes, not see clearly, maybe we lack motivation and we do not know the reason for this. I can offer a safe and confidential space to support you to look at these issues, support you start to see more clearly or make any changes you feel you may wish to make in life. I believe we all have the answers we need within us, at times though we can feel lost, counselling can help you to see clearly again.
Life is overwhelming at times, we can be suffering with specific issues such as depression, anxiety, loss, just to name a few. We can also feel confused sometimes, not see clearly, maybe we lack motivation and we do not know the reason for this. I can offer a safe and confidential space to support you to look at these issues, support you start to see more clearly or make any changes you feel you may wish to make in life. I believe we all have the answers we need within us, at times though we can feel lost, counselling can help you to see clearly again.
01889 228477 View 01889 228477

Online Therapists

Photo of Dr Satbinder Kaur Bhogal, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Satbinder Kaur Bhogal
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Birmingham B15  (Online Only)
The main therapies I deliver are include Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Intensive Short Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP), Mentalisation Based Therapy (MBT) & EMDR/ DBT.
I work with both children and adults and have a keen interest in working with those who have experienced complex/relational trauma with or without self harming/suicidal behaviour. I work with a variety of mental health problems, such as anxiety and depression. I also work with couples experiencing difficulties in their relationship and work towards understanding the emotional conflicts, that result in the relationship being strained or likely to end without support. There is no one size fits all therapeutic approach and so I place importance on developing a shared understanding of what the core emotional issues are that impact you.
The main therapies I deliver are include Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Intensive Short Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP), Mentalisation Based Therapy (MBT) & EMDR/ DBT.
I work with both children and adults and have a keen interest in working with those who have experienced complex/relational trauma with or without self harming/suicidal behaviour. I work with a variety of mental health problems, such as anxiety and depression. I also work with couples experiencing difficulties in their relationship and work towards understanding the emotional conflicts, that result in the relationship being strained or likely to end without support. There is no one size fits all therapeutic approach and so I place importance on developing a shared understanding of what the core emotional issues are that impact you.
01564 334869 View 01564 334869
Photo of Jon Macefield, MBACP, Counsellor
Jon Macefield
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Stonehouse GL10
Making the decision to look for counselling can be daunting. You may be uncertain whether counselling can help, I can provide a safe supportive space where you can talk and Explore any issues that is impacting on your life. I have many years of experience in helping clients with Anxiety and Depression and by using talking therapy, we can find the answers to help you find a way forward. I am trained in Person centered, and psycho-dynamic theory, and I have recently completed a Level 4 diploma in dialectical behavior therapy.
Making the decision to look for counselling can be daunting. You may be uncertain whether counselling can help, I can provide a safe supportive space where you can talk and Explore any issues that is impacting on your life. I have many years of experience in helping clients with Anxiety and Depression and by using talking therapy, we can find the answers to help you find a way forward. I am trained in Person centered, and psycho-dynamic theory, and I have recently completed a Level 4 diploma in dialectical behavior therapy.
01257 449534 View 01257 449534
Photo of Adriana Kober, MA, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Adriana Kober
Psychologist, MA, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Worcester WR5  (Online Only)
Clinical Psychologist with HCPC, specialising in trauma. EMDR therapist, CFT therapist, DBT therapist. I am passionate about working with people who are experiencing difficulties in their lives, exploring their life journeys and helping them find new perspectives. I integrate different psychological approaches and adjust and adapt to the Patient.
Clinical Psychologist with HCPC, specialising in trauma. EMDR therapist, CFT therapist, DBT therapist. I am passionate about working with people who are experiencing difficulties in their lives, exploring their life journeys and helping them find new perspectives. I integrate different psychological approaches and adjust and adapt to the Patient.
01905 917048 View 01905 917048
Photo of Dr Keren Smith, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Keren Smith
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Hereford HR4
Keren also has an interest in working with people who use drugs or alcohol to manage their emotions and has completed additional DBT training in this area.
Dr Keren Smith worked for the NHS at South London and Maudsley Foundation Trust from 2009 until 2022 where she and her colleagues set up the pioneering National and Specialist Dialectical Behaviour Therapy service for adolescents. Keren has seen clients independently since 2012, working with both adults and adolescents with a range of difficulties. She has a particular interest in working with people with a history of trauma and symptoms associated with PTSD and CPTSD; she has completed further training in specialist trauma focused models including EMDR and DBT-PE.
Keren also has an interest in working with people who use drugs or alcohol to manage their emotions and has completed additional DBT training in this area.
Dr Keren Smith worked for the NHS at South London and Maudsley Foundation Trust from 2009 until 2022 where she and her colleagues set up the pioneering National and Specialist Dialectical Behaviour Therapy service for adolescents. Keren has seen clients independently since 2012, working with both adults and adolescents with a range of difficulties. She has a particular interest in working with people with a history of trauma and symptoms associated with PTSD and CPTSD; she has completed further training in specialist trauma focused models including EMDR and DBT-PE.
020 8106 4754 View 020 8106 4754
Photo of Dr Hanna Yousefzadeh, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Hanna Yousefzadeh
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Leighton Buzzard LU7  (Online Only)
As a Clinical Psychologist, I have received extensive training in various evidence-based therapy models including CBT, DBT, ACT and systemic with further training in Schema therapy.
Hi there! Finding the right Psychologist can feel daunting and it can be difficult to know where to start, so let me begin by telling you a little bit about me. I am a Clinical Psychologist who has worked within the field of psychology for over 10 years. This experience has spanned across a variety of mental health services, working with adults, children, and families to support with a range of difficulties including anxiety disorders (including social anxiety, phobias and OCD), low self-esteem, depression, anger, disordered eating, school refusal and attachment/relational difficulties.
As a Clinical Psychologist, I have received extensive training in various evidence-based therapy models including CBT, DBT, ACT and systemic with further training in Schema therapy.
Hi there! Finding the right Psychologist can feel daunting and it can be difficult to know where to start, so let me begin by telling you a little bit about me. I am a Clinical Psychologist who has worked within the field of psychology for over 10 years. This experience has spanned across a variety of mental health services, working with adults, children, and families to support with a range of difficulties including anxiety disorders (including social anxiety, phobias and OCD), low self-esteem, depression, anger, disordered eating, school refusal and attachment/relational difficulties.
01525 654813 View 01525 654813
Photo of Dr Zaynah Arshad, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Zaynah Arshad
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Leeds LS6
I will tailor evidence-based approaches to your individual needs, and I have training and experience in a range of models including; EMDR, CAT, CBT, CFT & DBT.
Hi, I’m Zaynah; I’m a trauma-informed Clinical Psychologist and have worked within mental health services in the NHS for 12 years. I have successfully worked alongside individuals with a range of difficulties, including; emotional coping difficulties, low mood/depression, anxiety, low self-esteem and relationship difficulties. I also work to support people in processing traumatic experiences (PTSD and C-PTSD). My core values include being approachable and compassionate and this is reflected in the way in which I work. People I have worked with have described me as warm, genuine, and validating.
I will tailor evidence-based approaches to your individual needs, and I have training and experience in a range of models including; EMDR, CAT, CBT, CFT & DBT.
Hi, I’m Zaynah; I’m a trauma-informed Clinical Psychologist and have worked within mental health services in the NHS for 12 years. I have successfully worked alongside individuals with a range of difficulties, including; emotional coping difficulties, low mood/depression, anxiety, low self-esteem and relationship difficulties. I also work to support people in processing traumatic experiences (PTSD and C-PTSD). My core values include being approachable and compassionate and this is reflected in the way in which I work. People I have worked with have described me as warm, genuine, and validating.
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Photo of Ellie May Gregory, GMBPsS, Psychologist
Ellie May Gregory
Psychologist, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
Pontypool NP4  (Online Only)
My commitment to helping individuals with mental health challenges is supported by a solid educational background in psychology and specialized training in DBT.
The ideal client may struggle with a range of mental health issues, which could include anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship difficulties. They may experience persistent feelings of sadness, overwhelming stress, or difficulty in managing daily tasks. Their mental health challenges could stem from a variety of factors, such as past trauma, genetic predispositions, environmental stressors, or a combination of these elements. The ideal client desires change and is motivated by need to improve their mental and emotional well-being. They want to understand themselves better, gain control over their mental health issues.
My commitment to helping individuals with mental health challenges is supported by a solid educational background in psychology and specialized training in DBT.
The ideal client may struggle with a range of mental health issues, which could include anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship difficulties. They may experience persistent feelings of sadness, overwhelming stress, or difficulty in managing daily tasks. Their mental health challenges could stem from a variety of factors, such as past trauma, genetic predispositions, environmental stressors, or a combination of these elements. The ideal client desires change and is motivated by need to improve their mental and emotional well-being. They want to understand themselves better, gain control over their mental health issues.
01495 367188 View 01495 367188
Photo of Dr Jemma Jackson, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Jemma Jackson
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Brough HU15
I am a highly experienced and specialist Clinical Psychologist with 22 years of NHS experience, working predominantly with adults and adolescents suffering a variety of mental health difficulties. I offer individual, couples and some family therapies employing a range of person-centred and evidence based therapies. I have a particular interest in working with childhood and complex trauma, PTSD, dissociative disorders, personality disorder, mood disorders, eating disorders and attachment/relationship difficulties. I practice MBT, DBT, trauma processing therapies, CAT and CFT to tailor individualised intervention packages of care.
I am a highly experienced and specialist Clinical Psychologist with 22 years of NHS experience, working predominantly with adults and adolescents suffering a variety of mental health difficulties. I offer individual, couples and some family therapies employing a range of person-centred and evidence based therapies. I have a particular interest in working with childhood and complex trauma, PTSD, dissociative disorders, personality disorder, mood disorders, eating disorders and attachment/relationship difficulties. I practice MBT, DBT, trauma processing therapies, CAT and CFT to tailor individualised intervention packages of care.
017683 47700 View 017683 47700
Photo of Jamie Lee, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Jamie Lee
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Doncaster DN1
I specialise in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy although have undertaken additional training in therapies such as DBT, Schema Therapy, MBCT, ACT and EMDR.
I am an experienced, BABCP accredited CBT and EMDR Psychotherapist based in Doncaster. I work with a range of mental health presentations and complexities and I am very passionate about supporting individuals to understand and reduce the emotional distress that they experience whilst increasing their sense of well-being. All assessment and treatment offered at Psychotherapy Doncaster is supported by NICE guidance.
I specialise in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy although have undertaken additional training in therapies such as DBT, Schema Therapy, MBCT, ACT and EMDR.
I am an experienced, BABCP accredited CBT and EMDR Psychotherapist based in Doncaster. I work with a range of mental health presentations and complexities and I am very passionate about supporting individuals to understand and reduce the emotional distress that they experience whilst increasing their sense of well-being. All assessment and treatment offered at Psychotherapy Doncaster is supported by NICE guidance.
01302 430950 View 01302 430950
Photo of Carolin A Williamson, MSc, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Carolin A Williamson
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sutton Coldfield B73
I integrate elements of Gestalt therapy, dialectical behaviour therapy ( DBT), cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), as well as creative work, drawing on my experience in art therapy.
Throughout our lifetime we all experience ups and downs. At times the impact this has on our emotions and mental well-being can be so overwhelming and painful that reaching out for further help is the best thing we can do for ourselves. At other times we might just want to make more sense of life’s experiences and expand our self-awareness. Wherever you are at, I look forward to supporting you one step at a time towards greater internal, emotional balance and well-being. Being an integrative therapist, I use a variety of different therapeutic approaches to meet each client where they’re at on their personal journey.
I integrate elements of Gestalt therapy, dialectical behaviour therapy ( DBT), cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), as well as creative work, drawing on my experience in art therapy.
Throughout our lifetime we all experience ups and downs. At times the impact this has on our emotions and mental well-being can be so overwhelming and painful that reaching out for further help is the best thing we can do for ourselves. At other times we might just want to make more sense of life’s experiences and expand our self-awareness. Wherever you are at, I look forward to supporting you one step at a time towards greater internal, emotional balance and well-being. Being an integrative therapist, I use a variety of different therapeutic approaches to meet each client where they’re at on their personal journey.
0121 816 0572 View 0121 816 0572
Photo of Leah Zillah Murphy, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Leah Zillah Murphy
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Hebden Bridge HX7  (Online Only)
I may also introduce techniques from other theories such as Gestalt or CBT/ DBT, psychodynamic or compassion focussed therapy depending on your issues and personality.
There are times when we all can struggle to work out a way forward on our own. Voicing what is going on for you in a safe and positive environment can be key. Often we are too critical of ourselves and have had life experiences that negatively impact or devastate us. It can be too difficult to talk to those around us. Taking your time to reflect with an experienced professional can provide you with the strategies to really bring about changes in order to work towards happiness and inner peace.
I may also introduce techniques from other theories such as Gestalt or CBT/ DBT, psychodynamic or compassion focussed therapy depending on your issues and personality.
There are times when we all can struggle to work out a way forward on our own. Voicing what is going on for you in a safe and positive environment can be key. Often we are too critical of ourselves and have had life experiences that negatively impact or devastate us. It can be too difficult to talk to those around us. Taking your time to reflect with an experienced professional can provide you with the strategies to really bring about changes in order to work towards happiness and inner peace.
01422 419550 View 01422 419550

See more therapy options for Stafford

Dialectical Behaviour (DBT) Counsellors

Who is DBT for?

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) is designed for people who experience extreme emotional suffering because they lack the skills of emotion regulation and distress tolerance. The basic affliction can underlie a wide range of conditions, from borderline and other personality disorders to PTSD and treatment-resistant anxiety and depression. The therapy is helpful to those whose emotional reactivity is so intense it is disruptive to everyday functioning and leads to frequent crises.

Why do people need DBT?

The ability to regulate emotions is a core psychological skill that enables people to function in life and pay attention to the world outside themselves; it is consistently associated with well-being. DBT is designed to help people learn how to manage and regulate their emotions. Originally developed to treat people with borderline personality disorder whose extreme emotional suffering led to self-harming behaviour and suicide attempts, the therapy is now applied to other conditions involving emotion dysregulation, particularly when other treatments have failed.

What happens in DBT?

Individuals meet weekly with their therapist to discuss their experiences relating to moods, behaviour, and skills. Using checklists they maintain, they review emotional experiences and positive practices they engage in. The diaries help individuals discern what led up to a specific problem encountered, this is followed by discussion of the consequences of their actions. In addition, individuals may meet in class-like small groups to learn skills such as mindfulness, emotion regulation and distress tolerance.

How long does DBT last?

Because it is intended to establish long-lasting behavioural change among those with persistent problems, DBT is designed to last six months to a year. DBT includes both weekly sessions of individual therapy and weekly skills-training sessions conducted in small groups. Studies of DBT have documented improvement within a year of treatment, particularly in controlling self-harmful behaviour; nevertheless, individuals may require therapy for several years.