Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)
DBT is specialized type of CBT that can be effective for youth facing a range of emotional and behavioural challenges, especially those struggling with intense emotions, behavioural outbursts, impulsivity, and interpersonal difficulties. This therapy helps individuals learn to better regulate their emotions, tolerate stress, reduce problematic behavioural patterns, and address barriers that might be hindering progress in therapy. Parents are also empowered with practical skills that help them better support their child. Ultimately, the goal of DBT is to help youth build a more fulfilling life aligned with their personal values and goals.
At WellSpirit, our skilled team of therapists provides DBT-informed services for youth with co-occurring mental health, behavioural, and neurodevelopmental conditions, such as mood and anxiety disorders, ASD, ADHD, FASD, and trauma-related conditions. Some of our therapists are also trained in DBT for Kids (DBT-K), which is adapted for younger children (ages 6-12) and their families. DBT-K incorporates simplified DBT skills and play-based learning, as well as focuses on modifying parent-child interactions.
While many of our therapists have experience providing full-model DBT, WellSpirit does not currently offer this more intensive program. Full-model DBT is recommended for youth with severe emotional dysregulation, chronic suicidality, self-harm, or diagnosed personality disorders. Instead, we offer DBT-informed services tailored to individual client needs. This may include individual therapy, phone coaching, and skills training in various formats.
In DBT-informed services, individuals will:
Learn about the interaction between biology and social environments in creating emotion dysregulation.
Work closely with their therapist to strengthen motivation and commitment to change.
Explore behaviours that may interfering with the effectiveness of therapy, such as missing sessions or avoiding difficult topics.
Learn about triggers and vulnerability factors that contribute to emotion dysregulation.
Track patterns of intense emotions and related challenging behaviours.
Cultivate awareness of thoughts and feelings without judgment, becoming more present in daily life (mindfulness).
Develop healthier ways to cope with stress and manage crises without engaging in harmful behaviours (distress tolerance).
Learn about the role of emotions and how to manage them in a healthier way (emotion regulation).
Practice step-by-step approaches to solving interpersonal and life problems effectively.
Learn strategies to improve communication and strengthen relationships with others (interpersonal effectiveness).
Practice being more flexible and balanced in thinking, feeling, and interacting with others (walking the middle path).
Learn how to modify the environment and plan ahead to support mental health and well-being.
If you’re interested in receiving more information about our DBT-informed services and upcoming virtual DBT Skills Groups for youth or parents, please contact us directly.