Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) is an evidence‑based approach created by psychologist, Marsha Linehan, to support people who experience intense emotions or have difficulty staying regulated during stressful moments. A key part of DBT is the idea of dialectics- the understanding that two seemingly opposite things can both be true at the same time. For example, you can be doing the best you can and still need to learn new skills. You can want change and feel scared of it. This balance between acceptance and growth is at the heart of DBT and helps people move toward more flexible, compassionate ways of responding to themselves and others.

DBT blends practical skills with a compassionate, validating style of therapy, helping individuals understand their emotional patterns and build tools to navigate them more effectively. The model focuses on four core skill areas- mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness- which together help people feel more grounded, steady, and confident in their ability to handle challenges.

The overall goal of DBT is to create a life worth living, something that can feel out of reach when you haven’t had the opportunity to learn the skills needed for emotional regulation, especially in environments where caregivers were invalidating or unable to model healthy coping.

Although DBT was originally developed for individuals with borderline personality disorder, many people find these skills helpful for managing anxiety, depression, relationship stress, and moments of overwhelm. The approach is structured and skills‑based, offering concrete strategies that can be practiced both in and out of session. It is important to acknowledge that BPD has been heavily shaped by stigma over the years. Much of this stigma comes from misunderstanding, lack of clinical knowledge, and the ways people with intense emotional experiences have historically been dismissed or pathologized. In my work, I’ve supported many individuals with BPD traits and diagnoses, and I’ve consistently seen the capacity for change and growth that emerges when individuals are met with respect and a non‑judgmental therapeutic relationship.

I do not currently offer full DBT programming, which typically includes weekly skills groups, phone coaching, and a coordinated treatment team. However, I do provide a DBT‑informed approach, which means I integrate DBT principles and skills into therapy when they’re useful.