Dialectical Behaviour (DBT) Counselling in Kilkenny

Photo of Dr. Sarah Thompson, PsychD
Dr. Sarah Thompson
PsychD
Verified Verified
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny R95  (Online Only)
I draw on schema therapy, ACT, DBT and psychodynamic psychotherapy approaches.
Sometimes you might find yourself being really sensitive and feeling overwhelmed with emotions that are coming out of nowhere, often flying off the handle, or being tearful and upset. You might not be feeling yourself, like you are carrying a huge weight and you don’t know what it is or why. It might be that you feel really tense, and ‘on-edge’ and it’s difficult to relax. It can also be that you feel totally shut-off from others, detached and disconnected, feeling empty and numb. Life has lost its colour. Others constantly feel guilty, find it really hard to say no to others, and live in a constant state of never being good enough.
I draw on schema therapy, ACT, DBT and psychodynamic psychotherapy approaches.
Sometimes you might find yourself being really sensitive and feeling overwhelmed with emotions that are coming out of nowhere, often flying off the handle, or being tearful and upset. You might not be feeling yourself, like you are carrying a huge weight and you don’t know what it is or why. It might be that you feel really tense, and ‘on-edge’ and it’s difficult to relax. It can also be that you feel totally shut-off from others, detached and disconnected, feeling empty and numb. Life has lost its colour. Others constantly feel guilty, find it really hard to say no to others, and live in a constant state of never being good enough.
(01) 267 6641 x68 View (01) 267 6641 x68
Photo of Carolyn Duggan, MIACP, Psychotherapist
Carolyn Duggan
Psychotherapist, MIACP
Verified Verified
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny R95
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Supervisor, Psychotherapist , a Certified DBT and ACT therapist with 14 years experience . I have an excellent understanding of challenges and can help and support you to take action and find meaning , purpose and coping skills in your life. I have a special interest in working with ADHD, Autism, distress, anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, EUPD:BPD, frustration and overwhelming feelings and thoughts. The aim is for you to understand yourself better, to make changes to your life that are more productive and rewarding, and to help you move towards becoming the kind of person you want to be.
I am a Supervisor, Psychotherapist , a Certified DBT and ACT therapist with 14 years experience . I have an excellent understanding of challenges and can help and support you to take action and find meaning , purpose and coping skills in your life. I have a special interest in working with ADHD, Autism, distress, anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, EUPD:BPD, frustration and overwhelming feelings and thoughts. The aim is for you to understand yourself better, to make changes to your life that are more productive and rewarding, and to help you move towards becoming the kind of person you want to be.
(01) 267 6552 x34 View (01) 267 6552 x34
Photo of Caroline King Davy, MIACP, Psychotherapist
Caroline King Davy
Psychotherapist, MIACP
Verified Verified
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny R95
Some clients have lost themselves and their identities. This can be due to childhood trauma or a life event that has brought painful emotions such as a significant loss or family/intimate relationship difficulties. The effects of these life experiences make day to day life very difficult, We experience anxiety and depression amplified by overthinking and worry. We need to find a safe space to share the experiences and counselling to process them. A Client comes for counselling to make positive change and live their best life. They want a strong sense of self, fulfilling relationships and help in finding their life's purpose.
Some clients have lost themselves and their identities. This can be due to childhood trauma or a life event that has brought painful emotions such as a significant loss or family/intimate relationship difficulties. The effects of these life experiences make day to day life very difficult, We experience anxiety and depression amplified by overthinking and worry. We need to find a safe space to share the experiences and counselling to process them. A Client comes for counselling to make positive change and live their best life. They want a strong sense of self, fulfilling relationships and help in finding their life's purpose.
(061) 572 524 x15 View (061) 572 524 x15
Photo of Fergus McGrath - Cogbeh - Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, MA
Cogbeh - Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
MA
Verified Verified
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny R95
My services are (1) Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), (2) The Psychology Of Performance, (3) Meaning and Purpose in Life. In person or online. Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist. Lecturer. Sports Coach. Sports Coach Tutor. Author of the book 'The Aware Self: A Compendium Of Conscious Living.'
My services are (1) Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), (2) The Psychology Of Performance, (3) Meaning and Purpose in Life. In person or online. Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist. Lecturer. Sports Coach. Sports Coach Tutor. Author of the book 'The Aware Self: A Compendium Of Conscious Living.'
(01) 267 6641 x24 View (01) 267 6641 x24
Photo of Nettie Bowie - NorthStar Counselling & Therapy Centre, MA, Counsellor
NorthStar Counselling & Therapy Centre
Counsellor, MA
Verified Verified
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny R95
At NorthStar Counselling & Therapy Centre we are a leading clinic in the field of Child & Adolescent Therapy. We have a team of professional, caring, mental health therapists who provide an excellent service to the community of County Wexford and all the Southeast. We provide therapeutic support for all mental health conditions of children, teens and adolescents from age 4 - 24.
At NorthStar Counselling & Therapy Centre we are a leading clinic in the field of Child & Adolescent Therapy. We have a team of professional, caring, mental health therapists who provide an excellent service to the community of County Wexford and all the Southeast. We provide therapeutic support for all mental health conditions of children, teens and adolescents from age 4 - 24.
087 330 9994 View 087 330 9994
Photo of Claire Moloney, MSc, CPsychol PSI, Psychologist
Claire Moloney
Psychologist, MSc, CPsychol PSI
Verified Verified
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny R95
I am a Chartered Counselling Psychologist with thirty years experience. I provide consultations on mental health issues including depression, anxiety, panic attacks, abuse, trauma, PTSD, bereavement, OCD, self-harm, psychosis, suicidality, grief, loss, anger, addiction, violence, personality disorder, work-related problems, bullying, psychosis, bipolar disorder, stress, shame and confidence issues. Trained in CBT, Mindfulness, EMDR, CRM and MBT. I am recognised by VHI, Laya, Corkmarket and Irish Life for up to 50% rebates of consultation fee. Consultations available re concerns about the mental health of a family member or employee.
I am a Chartered Counselling Psychologist with thirty years experience. I provide consultations on mental health issues including depression, anxiety, panic attacks, abuse, trauma, PTSD, bereavement, OCD, self-harm, psychosis, suicidality, grief, loss, anger, addiction, violence, personality disorder, work-related problems, bullying, psychosis, bipolar disorder, stress, shame and confidence issues. Trained in CBT, Mindfulness, EMDR, CRM and MBT. I am recognised by VHI, Laya, Corkmarket and Irish Life for up to 50% rebates of consultation fee. Consultations available re concerns about the mental health of a family member or employee.
087 430 9669 View 087 430 9669
Photo of Liam Farrell - Mind Healing Counselling, APCP, Counsellor
Mind Healing Counselling
Counsellor, APCP
Verified Verified
Kilkenny, County Kilkenny R95
Hi. I’m Liam Farrell. I’m a Counsellor and a Psychotherapist based in Limerick. More specifically I am someone who helps to spark change in people’s lives. I help individuals who want to feel satisfied with their lives but feel like no matter what they do it just leads to stress and frustration. I will support you in exploring your history and uncovering patterns you may not even be aware of so that you can begin to have more control of your emotions and be excited about your future again.
Hi. I’m Liam Farrell. I’m a Counsellor and a Psychotherapist based in Limerick. More specifically I am someone who helps to spark change in people’s lives. I help individuals who want to feel satisfied with their lives but feel like no matter what they do it just leads to stress and frustration. I will support you in exploring your history and uncovering patterns you may not even be aware of so that you can begin to have more control of your emotions and be excited about your future again.
(01) 568 2872 x56 View (01) 568 2872 x56

Online Therapists

Photo of Michelle M Coyne - Michelle Coyne     , MSc, MIACP, Psychotherapist
Michelle Coyne
Psychotherapist, MSc, MIACP
Verified Verified
Tullamore, County Offaly R35
I offer CBT/DBT and solution focused therapy.
Based in the Midlands, I hold an MSc in Child and Adolescent Psychotherapeutic Skills and a BSc in Counselling and Psychotherapy, allowing me to work with adults. As a play therapist and general counsellor, I work with people who have been diagnosed with Autism/ASD/Neurodivergent and provide Cothu parenting courses also. I provide non-judgmental environment in which clients may feel secure while working through their current concerns. IACP-accredited member.
I offer CBT/DBT and solution focused therapy.
Based in the Midlands, I hold an MSc in Child and Adolescent Psychotherapeutic Skills and a BSc in Counselling and Psychotherapy, allowing me to work with adults. As a play therapist and general counsellor, I work with people who have been diagnosed with Autism/ASD/Neurodivergent and provide Cothu parenting courses also. I provide non-judgmental environment in which clients may feel secure while working through their current concerns. IACP-accredited member.
(01) 267 6681 x69 View (01) 267 6681 x69
Photo of Hilde Nicole Davy, PsychD, MIACP, Psychotherapist
Hilde Nicole Davy
Psychotherapist, PsychD, MIACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dublin, County Dublin D07
Hilde is a Psychotherapist, Certified Psychologist with experience in Private practice and Training in organisations. Her particular areas of interest include CBT, DBT, CISM/Trauma Work, Continuing Professional Development, Research, Ethics, Recruitment, Life and Business Coaching and Work-Life Balance.
Hilde is a Psychotherapist, Certified Psychologist with experience in Private practice and Training in organisations. Her particular areas of interest include CBT, DBT, CISM/Trauma Work, Continuing Professional Development, Research, Ethics, Recruitment, Life and Business Coaching and Work-Life Balance.
(01) 568 2872 x69 View (01) 568 2872 x69
Photo of Alison Cowpar, MSc, Counsellor
Alison Cowpar
Counsellor, MSc
Verified Verified
Adare, County Limerick V94
I work with many approaches using dialectical (DBT & CBT) behavioural techniques, sensory techniques, and mindfulness.
I work on a one-to-one basis in a non-judgmental, collaborative, emphatic way, encouraging and empowering my clients to develop their self-awareness, self-belief, self-esteem, and self-confidence for my clients to become less anxious, happier, more self-fulfilled, and to reach their full potential. I treat a variety of common mental health difficulties and life challenges, such as mood disorders, depression, anxiety disorders, OCD, PTSD, complex trauma, and much more.
I work with many approaches using dialectical (DBT & CBT) behavioural techniques, sensory techniques, and mindfulness.
I work on a one-to-one basis in a non-judgmental, collaborative, emphatic way, encouraging and empowering my clients to develop their self-awareness, self-belief, self-esteem, and self-confidence for my clients to become less anxious, happier, more self-fulfilled, and to reach their full potential. I treat a variety of common mental health difficulties and life challenges, such as mood disorders, depression, anxiety disorders, OCD, PTSD, complex trauma, and much more.
(01) 267 6552 x51 View (01) 267 6552 x51
Photo of Cathy Murphy, MA, NAPCP, Psychotherapist
Cathy Murphy
Psychotherapist, MA, NAPCP
Verified Verified
Cork, County Cork T12
I use person-centre therapy and the integration of cognitive behaviour therapy, dialectical behaviour therapy and exposure therapy.
My therapeutic approach helps you to identify any issues, address your needs and plan future goals to help reduce symptoms such as negative thinking, rumination, emotional dysregulation, anxiety and low mood. I work closely with many issues in particular, Borderline Personality Disorder, (BPD), ADHD, anxiety, depression, self-harm, womens issues, negative thinking, OCD and many others. Each individual is different and therefore each approach is planned according to your personal needs.
I use person-centre therapy and the integration of cognitive behaviour therapy, dialectical behaviour therapy and exposure therapy.
My therapeutic approach helps you to identify any issues, address your needs and plan future goals to help reduce symptoms such as negative thinking, rumination, emotional dysregulation, anxiety and low mood. I work closely with many issues in particular, Borderline Personality Disorder, (BPD), ADHD, anxiety, depression, self-harm, womens issues, negative thinking, OCD and many others. Each individual is different and therefore each approach is planned according to your personal needs.
086 222 9364 View 086 222 9364
Photo of Dr. Shaun Fisher, PhD, MPSI, Psychologist
Dr. Shaun Fisher
Psychologist, PhD, MPSI
Verified Verified
Celbridge, County Kildare W23  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
He also specialises in Process-Based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy to work with a range of psychological issues.
I see clients with a wide range of psychological issues including but not limited to Depression, Anxiety, Trauma-related issues, Work-related stress, Neurodivergence, and Problems of Self/Identity.
He also specialises in Process-Based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy to work with a range of psychological issues.
I see clients with a wide range of psychological issues including but not limited to Depression, Anxiety, Trauma-related issues, Work-related stress, Neurodivergence, and Problems of Self/Identity.
(01) 267 6603 x26 View (01) 267 6603 x26
Photo of Anthony Burke, MSc, MIACP, Psychotherapist
Anthony Burke
Psychotherapist, MSc, MIACP
Verified Verified
Celbridge, County Kildare W23  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I mainly work with the following approaches: EMDR, Psychosexual, CBT, DBT and Psychodynamic.
I am currently only working online and do not expect to work in-person until mid 2024. I am a qualified, experienced Integrative Psychotherapist accredited with IACP and IAHIP. I am also a COSRT registered Sexual & Relationship Psychotherapist for both individuals and couples and an EMDR accredited practitioner. I completed postgraduate CBT training in Trinity College Dublin and also completed Foundational and Intensive DBT training. I work with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, anger, grief, psychosexual issues, relationships, self-esteem, borderline personality disorder, self-harm, suicidal ideation and trauma.
I mainly work with the following approaches: EMDR, Psychosexual, CBT, DBT and Psychodynamic.
I am currently only working online and do not expect to work in-person until mid 2024. I am a qualified, experienced Integrative Psychotherapist accredited with IACP and IAHIP. I am also a COSRT registered Sexual & Relationship Psychotherapist for both individuals and couples and an EMDR accredited practitioner. I completed postgraduate CBT training in Trinity College Dublin and also completed Foundational and Intensive DBT training. I work with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, anger, grief, psychosexual issues, relationships, self-esteem, borderline personality disorder, self-harm, suicidal ideation and trauma.
(01) 267 6641 x18 View (01) 267 6641 x18
Photo of Elizabeth Horgan, MSc, MPSI, Psychologist
Elizabeth Horgan
Psychologist, MSc, MPSI
Verified Verified
Cork, County Cork T12  (Online Only)
I hold an MSc in Psychology and certificates in CBT, DBT, EMDR, and Mind-Body Medicine.
I specialise in assisting individuals who have suffered from Narcissistic Abuse, whether it was experienced in a parental or relationship setting. My practice provides confidential, compassionate, and competent support to help you identify specific issues that may be directly related to this type of trauma. Many adult survivors of narcissistic abuse experience feelings of isolation, hyper-vigilance, confusion, low self-esteem, fear of failure, and worthlessness. Whether you were raised by a narcissistic parent or were in a relationship with someone who has NPD personality disorder, I am here to work with you to resolve these issues.
I hold an MSc in Psychology and certificates in CBT, DBT, EMDR, and Mind-Body Medicine.
I specialise in assisting individuals who have suffered from Narcissistic Abuse, whether it was experienced in a parental or relationship setting. My practice provides confidential, compassionate, and competent support to help you identify specific issues that may be directly related to this type of trauma. Many adult survivors of narcissistic abuse experience feelings of isolation, hyper-vigilance, confusion, low self-esteem, fear of failure, and worthlessness. Whether you were raised by a narcissistic parent or were in a relationship with someone who has NPD personality disorder, I am here to work with you to resolve these issues.
087 347 5300 View 087 347 5300
Photo of Andrew Crabbe, DCounsPsych, CPsychol PSI, Psychologist
Andrew Crabbe
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, CPsychol PSI
Verified Verified
Dublin, County Dublin D14
Andrew has training in Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Attachment Based Family Therapy (ABFT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), and Unified Protocol for Emotional Disorders (UP). All of Andrew’s training is underpinned by a humanistic approach which centres the client as the focus of the work. Andrew has research experience and numerous publications in the areas of impulse control, substance abuse, and effective training methods for therapists. Additionally, Andrew has extensive experience working with neurodivergent clients who may have ASD, ADHD, OCD, Dyslexia etc.
Andrew has training in Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Attachment Based Family Therapy (ABFT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), and Unified Protocol for Emotional Disorders (UP). All of Andrew’s training is underpinned by a humanistic approach which centres the client as the focus of the work. Andrew has research experience and numerous publications in the areas of impulse control, substance abuse, and effective training methods for therapists. Additionally, Andrew has extensive experience working with neurodivergent clients who may have ASD, ADHD, OCD, Dyslexia etc.
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Photo of Micheli Romao, MSc, MPSI, Psychologist
Micheli Romao
Psychologist, MSc, MPSI
Verified Verified
Shankill, County Dublin D18
I work with different therapeutic modalities such as Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Psychoanalysis.
ShootingStar Psychology & Psychotherapy was founded as an extension to my work in medical settings and private clinics. I support patients and clients in building their resilience, living with purpose, creating healthy lifestyles and healing psychological wounds. I work with presentations such as Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Borderline Personality Disorder, Emotion Regulation, Grief, Self-Esteem, Stress, Psychological symptoms due Chronic Diseases, Unexplained Somatic Complains, Menopause Psychological Symptoms, and Psychological support for cancer patients.
I work with different therapeutic modalities such as Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Psychoanalysis.
ShootingStar Psychology & Psychotherapy was founded as an extension to my work in medical settings and private clinics. I support patients and clients in building their resilience, living with purpose, creating healthy lifestyles and healing psychological wounds. I work with presentations such as Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Borderline Personality Disorder, Emotion Regulation, Grief, Self-Esteem, Stress, Psychological symptoms due Chronic Diseases, Unexplained Somatic Complains, Menopause Psychological Symptoms, and Psychological support for cancer patients.
(01) 267 6517 x91 View (01) 267 6517 x91
Photo of Begona Nunez Sanchez, MPSI, Psychologist
Begona Nunez Sanchez
Psychologist, MPSI
Verified Verified
Dublin, County Dublin D04
Anxiety can limit our daily lives and become overwhelming. Let´s work together in a collaborative therapeutic process that will be aimed to overcome the obstacles that block you from living with serenity. I am a multilingual (Italian/English/Spanish) psychotherapist trained in CBT, DBT and psychoanalytic psychotherapy. I integrate these approaches in working with ADOLESCENTS and ADULTS, tailoring treatment to every individual’s needs. Everyone has personal strengths that are helpful to improve and live better. Let's uncover yours so that you can reach your own potential and create positive, sustainable change in your life.
Anxiety can limit our daily lives and become overwhelming. Let´s work together in a collaborative therapeutic process that will be aimed to overcome the obstacles that block you from living with serenity. I am a multilingual (Italian/English/Spanish) psychotherapist trained in CBT, DBT and psychoanalytic psychotherapy. I integrate these approaches in working with ADOLESCENTS and ADULTS, tailoring treatment to every individual’s needs. Everyone has personal strengths that are helpful to improve and live better. Let's uncover yours so that you can reach your own potential and create positive, sustainable change in your life.
(01) 568 2872 x32 View (01) 568 2872 x32
Photo of Siobhan Mary Logan - Siobhán Logan Counselling Kildare Services, MIACP, Psychotherapist
Siobhán Logan Counselling Kildare Services
Psychotherapist, MIACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naas, County Kildare W91
Siobhan is a fully certified CBT, DBT and ACT therapist. She is a member of the Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (IACP). She is a Bachelor of Science qualified Humanistic & Integrative Counsellor and Psychotherapist. She works in the Naas and Kilcullen areas of County Kildare. Siobhan is a qualified Acceptance and Commitment Therapist. She has a level 9 Cert in CBT (Cognitive Behaviour Therapy) working with children and adolescents She works with her Clients using Talk Therapy integrated with Creative Therapy and Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT). Siobhan has a great interest in Adolescents and Adults.
Siobhan is a fully certified CBT, DBT and ACT therapist. She is a member of the Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (IACP). She is a Bachelor of Science qualified Humanistic & Integrative Counsellor and Psychotherapist. She works in the Naas and Kilcullen areas of County Kildare. Siobhan is a qualified Acceptance and Commitment Therapist. She has a level 9 Cert in CBT (Cognitive Behaviour Therapy) working with children and adolescents She works with her Clients using Talk Therapy integrated with Creative Therapy and Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT). Siobhan has a great interest in Adolescents and Adults.
(01) 568 2872 x47 View (01) 568 2872 x47
Photo of Dr. Damian Tobias Davy, PsychD, CPsychol PSI, Psychologist
Dr. Damian Tobias Davy
Psychologist, PsychD, CPsychol PSI
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dublin, County Dublin D07
Services available include psychological assessment, CBT, DBT, counselling/psychotherapy and play therapy.
Difficulties and distress can arise in anyone’s life at any time. Even with the support of family and friends, it may still be difficult to cope and function effectively. Sometimes, it may be easier to talk about personal, family or relationship issues with an independent person. Even without being in crisis, or on the verge of one, underlying feelings of dissatisfaction with life in general may still be experienced. This may also involve profiling and assessment to assist the therapeutic care plan. The Phoenix Centre can help you with these issues in a friendly, professional and confidential environment. www.phoenixcentre.ie
Services available include psychological assessment, CBT, DBT, counselling/psychotherapy and play therapy.
Difficulties and distress can arise in anyone’s life at any time. Even with the support of family and friends, it may still be difficult to cope and function effectively. Sometimes, it may be easier to talk about personal, family or relationship issues with an independent person. Even without being in crisis, or on the verge of one, underlying feelings of dissatisfaction with life in general may still be experienced. This may also involve profiling and assessment to assist the therapeutic care plan. The Phoenix Centre can help you with these issues in a friendly, professional and confidential environment. www.phoenixcentre.ie
(01) 267 6552 x36 View (01) 267 6552 x36
Photo of Priscilla Yerxa - Priscilla Yerxa - Counsellor & Psychotherapist , MSc, NAPCP, Psychotherapist
Priscilla Yerxa - Counsellor & Psychotherapist
Psychotherapist, MSc, NAPCP
Verified Verified
Ratoath, County Meath A85
I am a psychotherapist and mental health Counsellor specialised in CBT, DBT, with experience in ANXIETY and TRAUMA therapy. I am Garda vetted and fully insured. I ensure a professional practice. The mindfulness approach has been helping the clients to overcome the anxiety, overthinking and depressive symptoms. I have experience working with teens, adults, family issues & couples therapy.
I am a psychotherapist and mental health Counsellor specialised in CBT, DBT, with experience in ANXIETY and TRAUMA therapy. I am Garda vetted and fully insured. I ensure a professional practice. The mindfulness approach has been helping the clients to overcome the anxiety, overthinking and depressive symptoms. I have experience working with teens, adults, family issues & couples therapy.
087 940 1221 View 087 940 1221

See more therapy options for Kilkenny

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.