What is DBT?
A type of talk therapy designed to help you manage intense emotions and improve your ability to handle stress and relationships. It was originally developed for individuals struggling with borderline personality disorder, but it has been found helpful for a wide range of mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, and self-harm behaviours.
The core idea behind DBT is learning to balance two things: accepting yourself as you are, while also striving for positive change. This balance is where the word “dialectical” comes from—it refers to the idea of holding two seemingly opposite ideas at the same time.
What to Expect
DBT often involves both individual therapy and group skills training. In therapy, you’ll work one-on-one with a counsellor to apply these skills to your life. In group sessions, you’ll practice skills with others who are facing similar struggles.
Overall, DBT can help you build a toolkit of strategies to cope with challenges more effectively, improve your relationships, and feel more in control of your emotions and behaviors. It emphasizes both acceptance and change, helping you live a life that feels more balanced and fulfilling.
