What is DBT?

Dialectical Behavior Therapy is an evidence-based treatment for a variety of mental illnesses and behavioral challenges. While it was originally created to treat borderline personality disorder, continued research has shown it is also effective with many other problems including PTSD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD and disordered eating. It has also been adapted for adolescents. Fundamentally, DBT is a therapy for anyone who struggles to experience, tolerate and manage their emotions. I approach therapy from a belief that it is often our reaction to our emotional experience that causes us suffering. I offer therapy that will help you understand, experience and tolerate your emotions more effectively. Together, we will work on replacing your problematic behavior with skillful behavior.

It is important to note that comprehensive DBT must include all 4 modes. It is also worth mentioning that not all individuals require comprehensive DBT and many benefit from adapted DBT. Numerous factors, such as diagnosis, severity and type of symptoms, commitment, and availability, are considered when your therapist makes a treatment recommendation. While DBT is the primary lens used at Redesigning Mental Health, we also pull from other modalities including: cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), narrative therapy and solution focused therapy.