DBT Therapy

DBT therapy techniques may play a more central or less central role in my work with clients depending on what they’re coming to therapy for and what they’re struggling with. Classically, DBT has a structure, order, and didactic quality, using a DBT workbook and worksheets in a fixed way, which may be indicated to best support some people. If you’re interested in exploring the above core skills in a manner that is more flexible or integrative, you may reach out to me to see whether an informed approach would be right for you.

I hold a certificate in DBT Informed Practice from Adler Graduate Professional School’s continuing education program for health care providers.

As a behavioural therapy technique, DBT focuses on teaching and practicing skills designed to contain and grow our capacities to navigate high emotional intrusion and overwhelm, impulsivity and reactivity, tendencies towards maladaptive coping, and challenges with interpersonal relationships. It takes an action-oriented approach in effort to address difficulties in the person’s present day, holding that our struggles may be valid while emphasizing the agency we do have.

Diagnosis is a controlled act reserved for medical doctors. Where specialized knowledge is required, it may be performed by a psychiatrist or psychologist. Only these health care professionals may diagnose a mental health disorder. As a psychotherapist, diagnosis is not within my scope of practice. I may use DBT skills to support you in addressing mental health challenges where teaching the skills could be of benefit, whether or not you have a diagnosis.

In private practice, I do not issue a session cap to clients; typically, DBT therapy is done intensively within a time limited structure, but because I take an informed approach, we can take our time refining the skills where they could address your unique situation. When you’re ready, we may move towards therapy closure or explore options for a different therapeutic approach.

As a therapist in private practice, I am unable to guarantee availability for a crisis call. I endeavor to offer appointments to clients experiencing a period of need within 48 business hours. In moments of crisis, clients are encouraged to consult their established safety plan, phone 988, or 911 in the event of an emergency. They may also use the Toronto Distress Centres Helpline at 416 408-4357, or The Gerstein Centre’s Helpline at 416 929-5200.

Some structured DBT options are offered locally through CAMH’s borderline personality disorder clinic, Layla Care’s DBT Skills Group, and through The Ontario DBT Centre.

DBT therapy is based on core skills that help individuals manage intense emotions and improve relationships. These components include mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness.

DBT therapy techniques involve mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. These techniques help individuals manage their emotions, respond effectively to situations, and improve their relationships with others.

Mindfulness in DBT therapy involves observing thoughts, feelings, and physical sensations nonjudgmentally and with full awareness. It helps individuals increase their awareness of the present moment and build a space between emotions and reactions.

DBT therapy helps with emotional regulation by teaching individuals how to name, describe, and understand their emotions. Over time, this helps reduce emotional suffering by allowing individuals to respond to tough situations rather than react impulsively.