Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Therapists in Nova Scotia

Photo of Lisa Wiggins, Registered Social Worker in Nova Scotia
Lisa Wiggins
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Truro, NS B2N
Hello! I have a Masters in Social Work and have worked in Mental Health and Addictions for the past 14 years. The evidence based therapies I have been trained in include: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for Anxiety, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) for Depression and Anxiety, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) for mood and personality disorders, Structured Relapse Prevention for Addictions, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Exposure Therapy for PTSD. I have also been trained in Conjoint-Behavioral Conjoint Therapy.
Hello! I have a Masters in Social Work and have worked in Mental Health and Addictions for the past 14 years. The evidence based therapies I have been trained in include: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for Anxiety, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) for Depression and Anxiety, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) for mood and personality disorders, Structured Relapse Prevention for Addictions, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Exposure Therapy for PTSD. I have also been trained in Conjoint-Behavioral Conjoint Therapy.
(902) 903-0551 View (902) 903-0551
Photo of April Pater, Counsellor in Nova Scotia
April Pater
Counsellor, MA, RCT, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kingston, NS B0P  (Online Only)
I have formal training in DBT and extensive experience empowering clients to improve their quality of life.
Accepting new clients - Does life sometimes feel like it's just too much? Do you find yourself constantly searching for happiness while trying to manage feelings of stress, sadness, anxiety, anger, guilt, overwhelm, etc.? I work with clients to get to the bottom of what is stopping them from leading a fulfilling life, meeting their goals, and effectively coping with life’s ups and downs. I offer a safe space for my clients to share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences; to learn to manage their emotions and relationships effectively and with integrity; and to make meaningful and lasting changes.
I have formal training in DBT and extensive experience empowering clients to improve their quality of life.
Accepting new clients - Does life sometimes feel like it's just too much? Do you find yourself constantly searching for happiness while trying to manage feelings of stress, sadness, anxiety, anger, guilt, overwhelm, etc.? I work with clients to get to the bottom of what is stopping them from leading a fulfilling life, meeting their goals, and effectively coping with life’s ups and downs. I offer a safe space for my clients to share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences; to learn to manage their emotions and relationships effectively and with integrity; and to make meaningful and lasting changes.
(902) 801-9432 View (902) 801-9432
Photo of Tamarack Counselling Services, Registered Social Worker in Nova Scotia
Tamarack Counselling Services
Registered Social Worker, MSW , RSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Halifax, NS B3H
I am trained in the following treatments: Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for Trauma, Prolonged Exposure (PE) for Trauma, Emotion Focused Family Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy for Borderline Personality Disorder, and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for depression, anxiety and psychosis.
Hi, my name is Steve Gates and I have been working in mental health for 15 years with 7 years working as a counsellor with the Nova Scotia Health Authority. In my work, I try to blend my training with your expertise about you. Using this approach, I have seen people make progress through situations that truly seemed impossible. In my experience, once people accept where they are and make realistic goals, they tend to make progress. The “feel better” part does seem to take time, but it tends to follow the changes.
I am trained in the following treatments: Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for Trauma, Prolonged Exposure (PE) for Trauma, Emotion Focused Family Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy for Borderline Personality Disorder, and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for depression, anxiety and psychosis.
Hi, my name is Steve Gates and I have been working in mental health for 15 years with 7 years working as a counsellor with the Nova Scotia Health Authority. In my work, I try to blend my training with your expertise about you. Using this approach, I have seen people make progress through situations that truly seemed impossible. In my experience, once people accept where they are and make realistic goals, they tend to make progress. The “feel better” part does seem to take time, but it tends to follow the changes.
(902) 907-2967 View (902) 907-2967
Photo of Michelle Strazzeri Psychotherapy For You Nova Scotia, Registered Social Worker in Nova Scotia
Michelle Strazzeri Psychotherapy For You Nova Scotia
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Halifax, NS B3J  (Online Only)
I use a strength-based, client focused approach and evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness and Brief Solution Focused Therapy to help you live your best life.
You are here because you are experiencing struggle, are ready to make some changes and you are looking for help. Together we can address your concerns and reestablish your sense of wellness and hope. I look forward to building a strong therapeutic relationship with you and supporting you through the changes you want with warmth, empathy and experience.
I use a strength-based, client focused approach and evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness and Brief Solution Focused Therapy to help you live your best life.
You are here because you are experiencing struggle, are ready to make some changes and you are looking for help. Together we can address your concerns and reestablish your sense of wellness and hope. I look forward to building a strong therapeutic relationship with you and supporting you through the changes you want with warmth, empathy and experience.
(289) 302-5765 View (289) 302-5765
Photo of Taylor Brydges, Counsellor in Nova Scotia
Taylor Brydges
Counsellor, MA, RCT-C, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dartmouth, NS B2Y
I typically incorporate aspects of CBT, DBT, and Solution-Focused Therapy into my practice.
Hi! My areas of interest and expertise include working with people who have survived trauma and sexual abuse. Initially, I build rapport and a trusting relationship with you. One of our first tasks will involve identifying your strengths and what’s important to you; these are major components of allowing successful trauma processing and resolution to occur. I also enjoy working with adolescents. Having once been a teen in need of additional support, I am able to empathize and quickly connect with young people. Other topics I support clients with are BPD, anger management, suicidal ideation, and self-esteem.
I typically incorporate aspects of CBT, DBT, and Solution-Focused Therapy into my practice.
Hi! My areas of interest and expertise include working with people who have survived trauma and sexual abuse. Initially, I build rapport and a trusting relationship with you. One of our first tasks will involve identifying your strengths and what’s important to you; these are major components of allowing successful trauma processing and resolution to occur. I also enjoy working with adolescents. Having once been a teen in need of additional support, I am able to empathize and quickly connect with young people. Other topics I support clients with are BPD, anger management, suicidal ideation, and self-esteem.
(226) 270-6638 View (226) 270-6638
Photo of Bright Birch Therapy, Occupational Therapist in Nova Scotia
Bright Birch Therapy
Occupational Therapist, MSc OT, BEd, BA
Verified Verified
Hubley, NS B3Z
I am trained in effective psychotherapy (CBT, DBT) that targets unhelpful coping and provides skills to help you manage.
Specializing in women's mental health (pregnancy/postpartum, parenting); youth and adult social anxiety, trauma recovery, depression, loss/grief. I support youth and adult clients seeking relief from difficult emotions to regain a sense of control and joy in life. You and your family do not have to suffer alone. If you are struggling with managing your emotions, or unsure how to support a loved one struggling, and want to change how you're coping, reach out. If you're looking for a therapist that will listen to you, respect you and gently encourage growth let's chat about your needs, and the support I can provide.
I am trained in effective psychotherapy (CBT, DBT) that targets unhelpful coping and provides skills to help you manage.
Specializing in women's mental health (pregnancy/postpartum, parenting); youth and adult social anxiety, trauma recovery, depression, loss/grief. I support youth and adult clients seeking relief from difficult emotions to regain a sense of control and joy in life. You and your family do not have to suffer alone. If you are struggling with managing your emotions, or unsure how to support a loved one struggling, and want to change how you're coping, reach out. If you're looking for a therapist that will listen to you, respect you and gently encourage growth let's chat about your needs, and the support I can provide.
(782) 800-0809 View (782) 800-0809
Photo of Chris DeWolfe, Psychologist in Nova Scotia
Chris DeWolfe
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Halifax, NS B3H
I also provide dialectical behaviour skills training (DBT).
I am a Psychologist (Candidate Register) who provides sport psychology services to adolescent and adult athletes. I also work with individuals experiencing a variety of mental health difficulties including: eating disorders (bulimia, anorexia, binge eating disorder, food avoidances and difficulties eating), body image concerns, anxiety disorders (panic disorder, agoraphobia, phobias, social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder), obsessive- compulsive disorder, and depression.
I also provide dialectical behaviour skills training (DBT).
I am a Psychologist (Candidate Register) who provides sport psychology services to adolescent and adult athletes. I also work with individuals experiencing a variety of mental health difficulties including: eating disorders (bulimia, anorexia, binge eating disorder, food avoidances and difficulties eating), body image concerns, anxiety disorders (panic disorder, agoraphobia, phobias, social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder), obsessive- compulsive disorder, and depression.
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Photo of Jason Tucker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nova Scotia
Jason Tucker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Truro, NS B2N
I am also trained in CBT, SFBT, and DBT skills.
Accepting New Clients- I have a Masters in Social Work and have worked in Mental Health and Addictions for the past 7 years as a clinical therapist. Based in Truro, Nova Scotia, I meet clients in my office, over secure online video, or phone depending on needs and preferences. Are you suffering with anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties or another mental health disorder or challenge and are seeking a life without this distress? Maybe you need help navigating available services? I offer a supportive client centered environment and utilize evidence-based treatment practices to help you in achieving your goals.
I am also trained in CBT, SFBT, and DBT skills.
Accepting New Clients- I have a Masters in Social Work and have worked in Mental Health and Addictions for the past 7 years as a clinical therapist. Based in Truro, Nova Scotia, I meet clients in my office, over secure online video, or phone depending on needs and preferences. Are you suffering with anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties or another mental health disorder or challenge and are seeking a life without this distress? Maybe you need help navigating available services? I offer a supportive client centered environment and utilize evidence-based treatment practices to help you in achieving your goals.
(902) 905-2622 View (902) 905-2622
Photo of Kala Rafuse, Registered Social Worker in Nova Scotia
Kala Rafuse
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Halifax, NS B3S  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Therapeutic approaches include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behavioual Therapy, Solution-Focused, and Motivational Interviewing.
There is no "too big" or "too small"- all inquiries and goals are welcome for exploration within our therapeutic space. With a background in Corrections and Community Mental Health, I've been fortunuate to hear the stories of many and guide them toward meaningful change and healing.
Therapeutic approaches include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behavioual Therapy, Solution-Focused, and Motivational Interviewing.
There is no "too big" or "too small"- all inquiries and goals are welcome for exploration within our therapeutic space. With a background in Corrections and Community Mental Health, I've been fortunuate to hear the stories of many and guide them toward meaningful change and healing.
(782) 201-3855 View (782) 201-3855
Photo of Melissa Bowman, Registered Social Worker in Nova Scotia
Melissa Bowman
Registered Social Worker, BAA, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
I have extensive post graduate training in CBT (Cognitive Behaviour Therapy), and I am also trained in DBT (Dialectical Behaviour Therapy), EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy), and SFBT (Solution Focused Brief Therapy).
I offer a non-judgemental and person-centered approach to therapy. You are the expert in your own life, and together we can develop a treatment plan that is individually tailored to your needs.
I have extensive post graduate training in CBT (Cognitive Behaviour Therapy), and I am also trained in DBT (Dialectical Behaviour Therapy), EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy), and SFBT (Solution Focused Brief Therapy).
I offer a non-judgemental and person-centered approach to therapy. You are the expert in your own life, and together we can develop a treatment plan that is individually tailored to your needs.
(782) 800-6370 View (782) 800-6370
Photo of Dr. Laura Scallion, Psychologist in Nova Scotia
Dr. Laura Scallion
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
Halifax, NS B3L
Scallion's therapeutic approach is a collaborative process grounded in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy that incorporates dialectical behavioral, mindfulness-based, and solution focused approaches.
Dr. Scallion works with adults (19+) with a range of mental health difficulties including insomnia, anxiety disorders, stress, relationship difficulties, PTSD, and low mood/depression.
Scallion's therapeutic approach is a collaborative process grounded in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy that incorporates dialectical behavioral, mindfulness-based, and solution focused approaches.
Dr. Scallion works with adults (19+) with a range of mental health difficulties including insomnia, anxiety disorders, stress, relationship difficulties, PTSD, and low mood/depression.
(782) 800-5374 View (782) 800-5374
Photo of Colleen D'Orsay, Counsellor in Nova Scotia
Colleen D'Orsay
Counsellor, MACP, RCT
Verified Verified
Sydney, NS B1L
I offer specialized PTSD and trauma-related services, such as DBT and EMDR from a strengths-based, trauma-informed, relational approach.
I assist clients who are struggling with grief, addictions, trauma and PTSD to learn how to heal, cope and live their best life based on their own personal values and belief systems. I have an affinity for working with Veterans, First Responders and First Nations People.
I offer specialized PTSD and trauma-related services, such as DBT and EMDR from a strengths-based, trauma-informed, relational approach.
I assist clients who are struggling with grief, addictions, trauma and PTSD to learn how to heal, cope and live their best life based on their own personal values and belief systems. I have an affinity for working with Veterans, First Responders and First Nations People.
(902) 517-0162 View (902) 517-0162
Photo of Juanita Charlene Paris, Registered Social Worker in Nova Scotia
Juanita Charlene Paris
Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, RSW, MDiv, Dmin st
Verified Verified
Eastern Passage, NS B3G  (Online Only)
I offer CBT and DBT therapy (addition to therapy listed in my specialties).
I’ve been a Social Worker for over 34 years. I have worked with individuals in Adult & Child Protection, psychiatric units, and emergency departments. I have a passion in working with individuals living with mental illness and addictions. I have also worked with youth in complex cases and crisis situations. I have counselled adults and children in homeless shelters and youth involved in human trafficking. I have counselled individuals who are involved with Correction Services of Canada on parole, while they resided in half way house. I promote social justice, diversity & inclusion with a trauma informed family centred approach.
I offer CBT and DBT therapy (addition to therapy listed in my specialties).
I’ve been a Social Worker for over 34 years. I have worked with individuals in Adult & Child Protection, psychiatric units, and emergency departments. I have a passion in working with individuals living with mental illness and addictions. I have also worked with youth in complex cases and crisis situations. I have counselled adults and children in homeless shelters and youth involved in human trafficking. I have counselled individuals who are involved with Correction Services of Canada on parole, while they resided in half way house. I promote social justice, diversity & inclusion with a trauma informed family centred approach.
(782) 800-0924 View (782) 800-0924
Photo of Silver Linings Wellness, Counsellor in Nova Scotia
Silver Linings Wellness
Counsellor, MEd, RCT, CCC
Verified Verified
Are you ready to make decisions that can be life changing? My name is Michelle and I bring a collaborative spirit to our counselling relationship applying an integrated treatment focus that is based on your needs. The treatment modalities I use are grounded in evidence-based methods such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy and Mindfulness practices. These approaches respect you, the client, and our therapeutic relationship while we work together toward your desired goals.
Are you ready to make decisions that can be life changing? My name is Michelle and I bring a collaborative spirit to our counselling relationship applying an integrated treatment focus that is based on your needs. The treatment modalities I use are grounded in evidence-based methods such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy and Mindfulness practices. These approaches respect you, the client, and our therapeutic relationship while we work together toward your desired goals.
(782) 823-3161 View (782) 823-3161
Photo of Carly MacCuspic, Registered Social Worker in Nova Scotia
Carly MacCuspic
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
I value evidence-based practice and am specifically trained in the following: Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Single Session Therapy, Suicide Risk Assessment, Cultural Safety Training, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), CBT for Social Anxiety Disorder and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART).
Talk therapy is an experience I believe everyone can benefit from. If you are feeling stressed and overwhelmed, or experiencing hopelessness, intrusive thoughts and using unhealthy coping strategies, there are skills you can learn in order to begin a journey down a more positive path. I currently offer individual therapy sessions for adults (19+) who could benefit from support in managing their difficult experiences, emotions, feelings and traumatic memories.
I value evidence-based practice and am specifically trained in the following: Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Single Session Therapy, Suicide Risk Assessment, Cultural Safety Training, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), CBT for Social Anxiety Disorder and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART).
Talk therapy is an experience I believe everyone can benefit from. If you are feeling stressed and overwhelmed, or experiencing hopelessness, intrusive thoughts and using unhealthy coping strategies, there are skills you can learn in order to begin a journey down a more positive path. I currently offer individual therapy sessions for adults (19+) who could benefit from support in managing their difficult experiences, emotions, feelings and traumatic memories.
(782) 800-0958 View (782) 800-0958
Photo of Arthur Sullivan, Registered Social Worker in Nova Scotia
Arthur Sullivan
Registered Social Worker, RSW
Verified Verified
Halifax, NS B3L  (Online Only)
I practice from a DBT and somatic Internal Family Systems.
Welcome! I'm a therapist operating out of Pink Opal Counseling. I work from a humanistic, trauma-informed, and person-centered model. I work with clients to understand how systemic and relational trauma impacts the limits they put on themselves and what they believe about the world and integrate those experiences into their lives. Every person has the capacity to heal and grow within themselves. We will work to clarify your values and examine how we can best move towards both acceptance and change in creating your most meaningful life. It is my intention to help clients become more authentic versions of themselves.
I practice from a DBT and somatic Internal Family Systems.
Welcome! I'm a therapist operating out of Pink Opal Counseling. I work from a humanistic, trauma-informed, and person-centered model. I work with clients to understand how systemic and relational trauma impacts the limits they put on themselves and what they believe about the world and integrate those experiences into their lives. Every person has the capacity to heal and grow within themselves. We will work to clarify your values and examine how we can best move towards both acceptance and change in creating your most meaningful life. It is my intention to help clients become more authentic versions of themselves.
(782) 201-3789 View (782) 201-3789
Photo of Brandy Gryshik, Registered Social Worker in Nova Scotia
Brandy Gryshik
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Halifax, NS B3P
She has training in Emotion Focused Family & Individual Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.
Brandy has 10 years experience working with children, youth, adults and families. For the past 7 years, she has been working as a Clinical Social Worker (Therapist) to help individuals build fulfilling lives by drawing on their strengths. When appropriate, a family focused approach is used. Her areas of speciality include psycho-education, anxiety, depression, interpersonal concerns, family conflict, coping with daily stressors, self-harm, suicidal ideation, emotional concerns and trauma. She has experience with LGTBQ and indigenous populations with a focus on creating a safe and healing environment.
She has training in Emotion Focused Family & Individual Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.
Brandy has 10 years experience working with children, youth, adults and families. For the past 7 years, she has been working as a Clinical Social Worker (Therapist) to help individuals build fulfilling lives by drawing on their strengths. When appropriate, a family focused approach is used. Her areas of speciality include psycho-education, anxiety, depression, interpersonal concerns, family conflict, coping with daily stressors, self-harm, suicidal ideation, emotional concerns and trauma. She has experience with LGTBQ and indigenous populations with a focus on creating a safe and healing environment.
(782) 800-0911 View (782) 800-0911
Photo of Reena M Davis - True North Psychological Services, Counsellor in Nova Scotia
Reena M Davis - True North Psychological Services
Counsellor, MACP
Verified Verified
I have a background that includes fitness, yoga, mindfulness, and health coaching, and often incorporate these into methods of EMDR, CBT, strength based therapy and DBT.
I work with individuals primarily providing a client centred and individual treatment plan for your needs. I have experience with those impacted by trauma, anxiety, depression, concussion, bipolar and more. Start prioritizing yourself today with empirically studied methods for coming out of low mood and work toward the future with purpose. Let's work together to bring positive change to your life. I am available in person through True North Psychological Services in Bridgewater. All services through Reena Davis Wellness are online only.
I have a background that includes fitness, yoga, mindfulness, and health coaching, and often incorporate these into methods of EMDR, CBT, strength based therapy and DBT.
I work with individuals primarily providing a client centred and individual treatment plan for your needs. I have experience with those impacted by trauma, anxiety, depression, concussion, bipolar and more. Start prioritizing yourself today with empirically studied methods for coming out of low mood and work toward the future with purpose. Let's work together to bring positive change to your life. I am available in person through True North Psychological Services in Bridgewater. All services through Reena Davis Wellness are online only.
(782) 222-0561 View (782) 222-0561
Photo of Tammy Stone, Registered Social Worker in Nova Scotia
Tammy Stone
Registered Social Worker, MSW RSW
Verified Verified
I am trained in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Compassion Focused Therapy, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, communication and stress management strategies.
Life is not always easy. Often we carry symptoms from our past that cause us to struggle on our journey. Talk therapy can help alleviate those difficulties so that you do not have to suffer in silence.
I am trained in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Compassion Focused Therapy, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, communication and stress management strategies.
Life is not always easy. Often we carry symptoms from our past that cause us to struggle on our journey. Talk therapy can help alleviate those difficulties so that you do not have to suffer in silence.
(782) 800-7351 View (782) 800-7351
Photo of Laura Burke Counselling, Counsellor in Nova Scotia
Laura Burke Counselling
Counsellor, MA, CCC, RCT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Halifax, NS B3K
My training includes Mindfulness Based approaches like Compassion Focused Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
I am a Halifax-based counsellor, psychotherapist, and creative arts therapist with a background in mindfulness, body-based, and trauma-oriented modalities. I believe that to struggle is a fundamental part of human experience. As humans are relational beings, we need to be witnessed, supported and deeply heard in order to process and expand beyond our grief and our pain. We all have the innate capacity for healing. With the right space to hold and befriend our difficult memories and emotions, our minds and bodies learn that there can be safety, freedom, and possibility in our lives.
My training includes Mindfulness Based approaches like Compassion Focused Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
I am a Halifax-based counsellor, psychotherapist, and creative arts therapist with a background in mindfulness, body-based, and trauma-oriented modalities. I believe that to struggle is a fundamental part of human experience. As humans are relational beings, we need to be witnessed, supported and deeply heard in order to process and expand beyond our grief and our pain. We all have the innate capacity for healing. With the right space to hold and befriend our difficult memories and emotions, our minds and bodies learn that there can be safety, freedom, and possibility in our lives.
(902) 701-9957 View (902) 701-9957

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Dialectical Behavior (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.