Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Ottawa, ON
Roxana Manoiu
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1S (Online Only)
I draw from various humanistic and evidence-based therapeutic approaches, such as Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT), Dialectical-Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), and attachment theories.
Accepting new clients starting April 2024 - I recognize that it takes a lot of courage to make the first step to reach out, and for that, I congratulate you. In working together, I invite you to discover yourself, empower you to process any wounded parts of your past, reach your goals, in a safe, secure and non-judgmental space. Through my work as a crisis counsellor, I have had the opportunity of working with survivors of Intimate-Partner Violence, complex grief and trauma, and tragic circumstances, in addition to providing support to first responders.
I draw from various humanistic and evidence-based therapeutic approaches, such as Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT), Dialectical-Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), and attachment theories.
Accepting new clients starting April 2024 - I recognize that it takes a lot of courage to make the first step to reach out, and for that, I congratulate you. In working together, I invite you to discover yourself, empower you to process any wounded parts of your past, reach your goals, in a safe, secure and non-judgmental space. Through my work as a crisis counsellor, I have had the opportunity of working with survivors of Intimate-Partner Violence, complex grief and trauma, and tragic circumstances, in addition to providing support to first responders.
I work with a variety of modalities such as: Attachment, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy ( DBT), Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Somatic.
Now welcoming clients. I offer a non-judgmental space where you can express yourself and feel seen. If you've noticed that you have trouble understanding your reactions and your emotions, or you find it difficult navigating relationships, I can help. I offer support to those who struggle with anxiety, low moods, emotional dysregulation and trauma. My approach is always trauma-informed and person-centered. I also work from an attachment lens and can support you in understanding your current patterns and in forging new ones with yourself and others. I would be honoured to support you as your enter into your healing journey.
I work with a variety of modalities such as: Attachment, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy ( DBT), Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Somatic.
Now welcoming clients. I offer a non-judgmental space where you can express yourself and feel seen. If you've noticed that you have trouble understanding your reactions and your emotions, or you find it difficult navigating relationships, I can help. I offer support to those who struggle with anxiety, low moods, emotional dysregulation and trauma. My approach is always trauma-informed and person-centered. I also work from an attachment lens and can support you in understanding your current patterns and in forging new ones with yourself and others. I would be honoured to support you as your enter into your healing journey.
Drawing from Psychodynamic and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), I am committed to guiding clients towards discovering new perspectives and fostering resilience in the face of life's challenges and complexities.
At the heart of my practice is a dedication to nurturing a therapeutic relationship built on trust and collaboration. Together, we prioritize progress over perfection, with a priority on evidence-based research. I am here to equip you with the confidence and tools to navigate your presenting concerns, empowering you to seize control over what is within your ability to control, and guide you towards acceptance of what lies beyond your influence.
Drawing from Psychodynamic and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT), I am committed to guiding clients towards discovering new perspectives and fostering resilience in the face of life's challenges and complexities.
At the heart of my practice is a dedication to nurturing a therapeutic relationship built on trust and collaboration. Together, we prioritize progress over perfection, with a priority on evidence-based research. I am here to equip you with the confidence and tools to navigate your presenting concerns, empowering you to seize control over what is within your ability to control, and guide you towards acceptance of what lies beyond your influence.
Valerie Barnett
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2E
My practice adopts a holistic and evidence-based approach that incorporates aspects of ACT, CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and self-compassion.
Life can be challenging, and it takes great courage to reach out for support. As a therapist, I believe that the therapeutic relationship is the foundation for effective psychotherapy and counselling. I prioritize creating a safe, non-judgmental, and trusting environment for clients to feel comfortable sharing their experiences. I have experience working with adolescents and adults (18+) who face challenges with anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorder, ADHD, addiction, life transitions, low self-esteem, emotional regulation, and interpersonal challenges.
My practice adopts a holistic and evidence-based approach that incorporates aspects of ACT, CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and self-compassion.
Life can be challenging, and it takes great courage to reach out for support. As a therapist, I believe that the therapeutic relationship is the foundation for effective psychotherapy and counselling. I prioritize creating a safe, non-judgmental, and trusting environment for clients to feel comfortable sharing their experiences. I have experience working with adolescents and adults (18+) who face challenges with anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorder, ADHD, addiction, life transitions, low self-esteem, emotional regulation, and interpersonal challenges.
My approach is informed significantly by CBT, and I also have a background in DBT.
I believe that therapy has the best effect when clients feel that they are working towards a common goal with someone who is open, non-judgmental and ready to put in the work. Therapy asks the client to face themselves in a way that demands much, and I strive to be a therapist that can guide others through this important and complicated process with respect. You don’t need to have the whole path laid out before you. You don’t need to have all the right words to express what is going on. My job is to meet people where they are and provide a context that supports them in their search for change.
My approach is informed significantly by CBT, and I also have a background in DBT.
I believe that therapy has the best effect when clients feel that they are working towards a common goal with someone who is open, non-judgmental and ready to put in the work. Therapy asks the client to face themselves in a way that demands much, and I strive to be a therapist that can guide others through this important and complicated process with respect. You don’t need to have the whole path laid out before you. You don’t need to have all the right words to express what is going on. My job is to meet people where they are and provide a context that supports them in their search for change.
, motivational interviewing, internal family systems, meditation/mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, breathwork).
I work with adults (18+yrs) who are challenged by depression, stress, anxiety, and/or trauma. I am particularly experienced in working with those who are struggling with relationships, poor self-confidence/self-esteem, addiction/substance use recovery, burnout, loss and/or grief, or adjusting to major life transitions (e.g., divorce, career, parenthood, retirement). Being a nurse also makes me uniquely positioned to help support others who work in healthcare. So many of my clients are nurses or other health care professionals who are struggling with work-life balance, burnout, or emotional challenges in their personal lives.
, motivational interviewing, internal family systems, meditation/mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, breathwork).
I work with adults (18+yrs) who are challenged by depression, stress, anxiety, and/or trauma. I am particularly experienced in working with those who are struggling with relationships, poor self-confidence/self-esteem, addiction/substance use recovery, burnout, loss and/or grief, or adjusting to major life transitions (e.g., divorce, career, parenthood, retirement). Being a nurse also makes me uniquely positioned to help support others who work in healthcare. So many of my clients are nurses or other health care professionals who are struggling with work-life balance, burnout, or emotional challenges in their personal lives.
Alanna Page
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1H
Waitlist for new clients
I use a variety of interventions like Somatic Experiencing, Narrative Therapy, DBT, CBT, Mindfulness, Play Therapy, expressive arts and others.
Welcome, I'm glad you're here. I believe we all can create change in our lives and this is your first step. Whether you are an individual or a couple and have one goal or many, we will work with them at your own pace. As we are all unique, I work from a person-centred approach. How we think about ourselves and others can sometimes hold us back from living a fulfilled life aligned with our values. Let's work together so you can begin to feel empowered and move towards wellness. I will meet you where you are today, collaborate with you and walk alongside you as you begin or continue your healing journey.
I use a variety of interventions like Somatic Experiencing, Narrative Therapy, DBT, CBT, Mindfulness, Play Therapy, expressive arts and others.
Welcome, I'm glad you're here. I believe we all can create change in our lives and this is your first step. Whether you are an individual or a couple and have one goal or many, we will work with them at your own pace. As we are all unique, I work from a person-centred approach. How we think about ourselves and others can sometimes hold us back from living a fulfilled life aligned with our values. Let's work together so you can begin to feel empowered and move towards wellness. I will meet you where you are today, collaborate with you and walk alongside you as you begin or continue your healing journey.
Our 6-week DBT-Informed Parent & Caregiver Skills Group focuses on teaching parents concrete strategies to support their children in managing their emotions while strengthening connection and attachment.
Participants will learn skills informed by Dialectical Behaviour Therapy ( DBT). The group facilitators promote a welcoming, inclusive environment and will teach skills through verbal instruction, video presentations and group discussions.
Our 6-week DBT-Informed Parent & Caregiver Skills Group focuses on teaching parents concrete strategies to support their children in managing their emotions while strengthening connection and attachment.
Participants will learn skills informed by Dialectical Behaviour Therapy ( DBT). The group facilitators promote a welcoming, inclusive environment and will teach skills through verbal instruction, video presentations and group discussions.
I am certified DBT, Brainspotting and Gottman practitioner.
My passion is supporting individuals, and couples through life transitions. Moving into a new stage of life can bring excitement, anxiety and uncertainty. Support through these transitions can make them more manageable by equipping you with the communication and coping strategies you may need. Whether it be a career change, new relationship, welcoming a new baby, or the difficult decision to decouple. You do not need to navigate these transitions alone. I also have a specialization in providing therapy for postpartum/perinatal mental health, fertility/infertility treatment, and/or pregnancy loss.
I am certified DBT, Brainspotting and Gottman practitioner.
My passion is supporting individuals, and couples through life transitions. Moving into a new stage of life can bring excitement, anxiety and uncertainty. Support through these transitions can make them more manageable by equipping you with the communication and coping strategies you may need. Whether it be a career change, new relationship, welcoming a new baby, or the difficult decision to decouple. You do not need to navigate these transitions alone. I also have a specialization in providing therapy for postpartum/perinatal mental health, fertility/infertility treatment, and/or pregnancy loss.
Megan LaBreche
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MSc, OAMHP
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K4A (Online Only)
My approach blends several types of therapy, including cognitive behavioural therapy, dialectical behavioural therapy, mindfulness, acceptance and commitment therapy and psychoeducation.
Eating disorders and exercise disorders have devastating effects on the individual suffering and those close to them. As a registered psychotherapist specializing in the treatment of eating and exercise disorders and co-occurring issues, I work collaboratively with clients to meet their own individual therapeutic needs as they bravely journey into full recovery. While I specialize in treating eating disorders, approximately half of my clients come to me with different concerns. I have extensive experience with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues.
My approach blends several types of therapy, including cognitive behavioural therapy, dialectical behavioural therapy, mindfulness, acceptance and commitment therapy and psychoeducation.
Eating disorders and exercise disorders have devastating effects on the individual suffering and those close to them. As a registered psychotherapist specializing in the treatment of eating and exercise disorders and co-occurring issues, I work collaboratively with clients to meet their own individual therapeutic needs as they bravely journey into full recovery. While I specialize in treating eating disorders, approximately half of my clients come to me with different concerns. I have extensive experience with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues.
Nancy Tewes
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2B (Online Only)
Using somatic practices, mindfulness, attachment-based methods, and dialectical behaviour therapy.
In today’s fast-paced and demanding world, many people find themselves grappling with heightened levels of anxiety, overwhelm, and stress in their relationships, careers, and overall life. Navigating life's challenges can feel overwhelming, and it is natural to struggle with your thoughts and emotions. As the pressures of modern living intensify, feeling strained and uncertain about how to manage and find balance is a common experience.
Using somatic practices, mindfulness, attachment-based methods, and dialectical behaviour therapy.
In today’s fast-paced and demanding world, many people find themselves grappling with heightened levels of anxiety, overwhelm, and stress in their relationships, careers, and overall life. Navigating life's challenges can feel overwhelming, and it is natural to struggle with your thoughts and emotions. As the pressures of modern living intensify, feeling strained and uncertain about how to manage and find balance is a common experience.
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To touch on the technical side, I primarily use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Internal Family Systems and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy.
Accepting new clients – Hi I know that finding the right therapist can be an intimidating process, I would like to do my best to make this as comfortable and easy as possible. I’m going to lay out some information about how I work and how that may impact you, if you have any questions or you want to meet, please feel free to reach out! To start, my top priority in working with you is ensuring you feel safe discussing whatever is going on in your life. From there we can work at overcoming obstacles, clarifying goals, or anything else we agree on and see as productive and beneficial for you.
To touch on the technical side, I primarily use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Internal Family Systems and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy.
Accepting new clients – Hi I know that finding the right therapist can be an intimidating process, I would like to do my best to make this as comfortable and easy as possible. I’m going to lay out some information about how I work and how that may impact you, if you have any questions or you want to meet, please feel free to reach out! To start, my top priority in working with you is ensuring you feel safe discussing whatever is going on in your life. From there we can work at overcoming obstacles, clarifying goals, or anything else we agree on and see as productive and beneficial for you.
Melisa Arias-Valenzuela
Psychologist, CPsych, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1P
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in evidence-based therapies including CBT, ACT, CFT and DBT-ED.
I am a clinical psychologist licensed in Ontario and I hold a doctoral degree in Psychology (Ph.D./Psy.D.) from the Université du Québec à Montréal. I provide psychological assessments and psychotherapy at my clinic, Uprise Psychology & Wellness, to adults and teens suffering from eating disorders and body image concerns, as well as adults struggling with perinatal mental health difficulties, including postpartum depression, birth trauma, pregnancy loss and infertility. I also have experience working with people suffering from Anxiety Disorders, Mood Disorders, Trauma-Related Disorders as well as other difficulties.
I am trained in evidence-based therapies including CBT, ACT, CFT and DBT-ED.
I am a clinical psychologist licensed in Ontario and I hold a doctoral degree in Psychology (Ph.D./Psy.D.) from the Université du Québec à Montréal. I provide psychological assessments and psychotherapy at my clinic, Uprise Psychology & Wellness, to adults and teens suffering from eating disorders and body image concerns, as well as adults struggling with perinatal mental health difficulties, including postpartum depression, birth trauma, pregnancy loss and infertility. I also have experience working with people suffering from Anxiety Disorders, Mood Disorders, Trauma-Related Disorders as well as other difficulties.
I use a variety of therapeutic approaches, including: Attachment/Psychodynamic Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy from an anti-oppressive and multicultural framework.
Life can be tough and our inner struggles can become overwhelming. Navigating the depths of our own distress may be a daunting task. Luckily, we don't have to be alone. I provide therapy to adolescents, adults, seniors and couples from all backgrounds, in an environment that is open, safe and judgement-free. I have experience working with a range of issues: PTSD and trauma, depression/anxiety, self-esteem, substance use, relationship issues and more. I also provide mental health assessments for MVA, WSIB, and ADHD under supervision. Learn more about my approach to therapy, office locations, other FAQs through my website.
I use a variety of therapeutic approaches, including: Attachment/Psychodynamic Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy from an anti-oppressive and multicultural framework.
Life can be tough and our inner struggles can become overwhelming. Navigating the depths of our own distress may be a daunting task. Luckily, we don't have to be alone. I provide therapy to adolescents, adults, seniors and couples from all backgrounds, in an environment that is open, safe and judgement-free. I have experience working with a range of issues: PTSD and trauma, depression/anxiety, self-esteem, substance use, relationship issues and more. I also provide mental health assessments for MVA, WSIB, and ADHD under supervision. Learn more about my approach to therapy, office locations, other FAQs through my website.
I appreciate that seeking help can be intimidating. Many people feel that they suffer alone. People do not realize how common it is to suffer from mental health-related issues. In North America, one in five adults suffer from distress, such as depression, anxiety, and interpersonal problems. Psychotherapy is extremely effective at treating a wide variety of psychological issues. I provide evidence-based, individualized, and collaborative treatment to ensure the quality of care. My approach to psychotherapy incorporates cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy ( DBT), and emotion-focused therapy (EFT).
I appreciate that seeking help can be intimidating. Many people feel that they suffer alone. People do not realize how common it is to suffer from mental health-related issues. In North America, one in five adults suffer from distress, such as depression, anxiety, and interpersonal problems. Psychotherapy is extremely effective at treating a wide variety of psychological issues. I provide evidence-based, individualized, and collaborative treatment to ensure the quality of care. My approach to psychotherapy incorporates cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy ( DBT), and emotion-focused therapy (EFT).
Elias Papadolias
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q), MACP(C)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1R
I draw upon Psychodynamic and Existential theory, and Behavioral Therapies such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
I work with adults struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem issues, social media addiction, feelings of meaninglessness, grief and loss, life transitions, relationship issues, and LGBTQ+ matters. I strive to create a supportive environment where you can explore and openly challenge your issues as we seek insight, healing, and enduring change in your personal life. I will encourage you to engage deeply and productively in the therapeutic process in order to overcome patterns that have been holding you back and empower you toward a sense of well-being and meaning.
I draw upon Psychodynamic and Existential theory, and Behavioral Therapies such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
I work with adults struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem issues, social media addiction, feelings of meaninglessness, grief and loss, life transitions, relationship issues, and LGBTQ+ matters. I strive to create a supportive environment where you can explore and openly challenge your issues as we seek insight, healing, and enduring change in your personal life. I will encourage you to engage deeply and productively in the therapeutic process in order to overcome patterns that have been holding you back and empower you toward a sense of well-being and meaning.
Kris Cormier
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2C
Waitlist for new clients
I integrate 3rd-wave cognitive behaviour models (ACT & DBT) with other interventions.
Waitlist for JAN 2025 for individuals & partners, feel free to reach out. In-person Ottawa West location, afternoons & evenings. I can help you: Talk about 2SLGBTQ+ identities & queer relationships; Explore an interest in non-monogamy / polyamoury; Learn to regulate emotions; Cope with anxious thoughts; Reduce addiction to substances (alcohol or drug use); Manage addiction to problematic behaviour (gambling or shopping); Heal the wounds of past trauma (sexual assault, childhood abuse, intimate partner violence); Work on improving relationships; Handle family conflict; Adjust to living with specific diagnoses like BPD, PTSD, & ADHD.
I integrate 3rd-wave cognitive behaviour models (ACT & DBT) with other interventions.
Waitlist for JAN 2025 for individuals & partners, feel free to reach out. In-person Ottawa West location, afternoons & evenings. I can help you: Talk about 2SLGBTQ+ identities & queer relationships; Explore an interest in non-monogamy / polyamoury; Learn to regulate emotions; Cope with anxious thoughts; Reduce addiction to substances (alcohol or drug use); Manage addiction to problematic behaviour (gambling or shopping); Heal the wounds of past trauma (sexual assault, childhood abuse, intimate partner violence); Work on improving relationships; Handle family conflict; Adjust to living with specific diagnoses like BPD, PTSD, & ADHD.
Louisa Larocque
Registered Social Worker, HBA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P (Online Only)
The main modalities that I use are Self-Compassion CBT, DBT, ACT, MI, Crisis Intervention, and Narrative Therapy.
In my neurodiversity-affirming practice, I view neurodivergence as a celebrated difference, not a deficit. My ideal client is a female-identifying or non-binary adult navigating the challenges of neurodivergent identity. They struggle with self-criticism, overwhelm, and burnout from masking their true selves. Their goal is to embrace their unique strengths, cultivate self-compassion, and advocate for their needs in a world that often misunderstands them. Sessions are strategically structured to accommodate level 1 autism and ADHD; However, anyone may inquire if my profile resonates with them.
The main modalities that I use are Self-Compassion CBT, DBT, ACT, MI, Crisis Intervention, and Narrative Therapy.
In my neurodiversity-affirming practice, I view neurodivergence as a celebrated difference, not a deficit. My ideal client is a female-identifying or non-binary adult navigating the challenges of neurodivergent identity. They struggle with self-criticism, overwhelm, and burnout from masking their true selves. Their goal is to embrace their unique strengths, cultivate self-compassion, and advocate for their needs in a world that often misunderstands them. Sessions are strategically structured to accommodate level 1 autism and ADHD; However, anyone may inquire if my profile resonates with them.
Fanny Laurin Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2G
I use an integrative approach that combines CBT, EFT, Mindfulness, DBT, Narrative, IFS, Trauma Informed, Experiential, and empathy to fit the clients needs.
English and French. Stress, anxiety, depression, and life transitions are common difficulties experienced by most people. However, when these issues begin to negatively impact your life or become too much to handle, we need help identifying tools and strategies to resolve these issues and achieve our goals. We can work together to find the right tools and skills to cope, grow, and reconnect with yourself and loved ones. As a therapist, I value your lived experiences and work with the approaches that best fit my client’s needs. Please get in touch so we can discuss how I can help you, your child or your couple.
I use an integrative approach that combines CBT, EFT, Mindfulness, DBT, Narrative, IFS, Trauma Informed, Experiential, and empathy to fit the clients needs.
English and French. Stress, anxiety, depression, and life transitions are common difficulties experienced by most people. However, when these issues begin to negatively impact your life or become too much to handle, we need help identifying tools and strategies to resolve these issues and achieve our goals. We can work together to find the right tools and skills to cope, grow, and reconnect with yourself and loved ones. As a therapist, I value your lived experiences and work with the approaches that best fit my client’s needs. Please get in touch so we can discuss how I can help you, your child or your couple.
Sarah Whelan- The Serenity Space
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K4A (Online Only)
I often draw on approaches and theories such as the Gottman Method, Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT), Somatic Experiencing (SE), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, and mindfulness.
Hello! Welcome to The Serenity Space, I am so glad you are here. At the heart of my work is my value of creating a safe space for us to explore topics together. I am passionate about supporting individuals and couples through conflict in relationships, experiences with big emotions, transitions through postpartum/parenthood, or feelings of being constantly stressed or on edge. Whatever season of life you find yourself in, I hope to provide a supportive space to explore it together.
I often draw on approaches and theories such as the Gottman Method, Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT), Somatic Experiencing (SE), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, and mindfulness.
Hello! Welcome to The Serenity Space, I am so glad you are here. At the heart of my work is my value of creating a safe space for us to explore topics together. I am passionate about supporting individuals and couples through conflict in relationships, experiences with big emotions, transitions through postpartum/parenthood, or feelings of being constantly stressed or on edge. Whatever season of life you find yourself in, I hope to provide a supportive space to explore it together.
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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.