Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) is a structured, evidence-based approach designed for individuals who feel emotions deeply and often find themselves overwhelmed by them. If you’ve ever experienced rapid mood shifts, intense emotional reactions, or difficulty navigating through relationships, DBT can offer a clear and compassionate path forward. Developed by Dr. Marsha Linehan, DBT was originally created to support people with Borderline Personality Disorder and those engaging in self-harming or suicidal behaviours. Over time, its effectiveness has been recognised across a wide range of emotional, behavioural, and relational challenges. DBT is rooted in the principles of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) but uniquely blends change-oriented strategies with deep acceptance-based practices. This balance is essential, because growth begins when we feel accepted as we are. What to expect In our work together, you’ll learn practical, life-enhancing skills in four key areas:

• Mindfulness – anchor yourself in the present moment with clarity, self-awareness, and without judgement. Become more aware of your internal and external experiences.
• Distress Tolerance – navigate crises and emotional pain without turning to self-destructive behaviours. Learn techniques for self-soothing techniques and crisis survival skills.
• Emotion Regulation – reduce emotional reactivity and feel more in control of your mood. Learn techniques for identifying triggers, understanding emotions, and developing healthy coping mechanisms.
• Interpersonal Effectiveness – communicate your needs with confidence, set boundaries, and build more fulfilling relationships. Learn skills for asking what you need assertively, saying “no” and resolving conflicts constructively.

Each session includes agreed-upon tasks or practices to reinforce your learning between sessions. You don’t need to be in crisis to benefit from DBT. Many of my clients are high-functioning individuals who want to better understand their emotional world and feel in control over their emotional reactions and relationships. DBT can be helpful for

• Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)
• Emotional dysregulation and mood instability
• Self-harm and suicidal ideation
• Substance use and alcohol dependency
• Eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia, binge eating)
• ADHD and impulsivity
• Trauma and PTSD
• Codependency and people-pleasing patterns
• Shame, self-criticism, and low self-worth
• Relationship conflict and fear of abandonment