DBT

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) is a type of cognitive-behavioural therapy designed to help individuals manage intense emotions, improve relationships, and reduce self-destructive behaviours. 

 

Originally developed by psychologist Marsha Linehan to treat borderline personality disorder, DBT has since been adapted for a range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and substance use.

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DBT combines standard cognitive-behavioural techniques for emotion regulation and reality-testing with concepts of mindfulness, acceptance, and dialectics—the idea that two opposing ideas can both be true. The therapy typically involves four key skill areas: mindfulness (being present in the moment), distress tolerance (coping with crisis without worsening the situation), emotion regulation (understanding and managing intense emotions), and interpersonal effectiveness (navigating relationships and asserting needs).

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DBT can be delivered through a combination of individual therapy, group skills training, phone coaching, and therapist consultation teams. It emphasizes validation—acknowledging a person's feelings and experiences as real and understandable—while also encouraging change. DBT is evidence-based and has been shown to reduce self-harm, suicidal behaviours, and improve emotional and relational functioning. Its structured, skills-focused approach helps individuals build a life worth living, even in the face of emotional pain.