UNDERSTANDING DIALECTICAL BEHAVIOURAL THERAPY
Dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based approach to counselling and psychotherapy that emphasizes balancing acceptance and change. It combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness strategies to help individuals regulate emotions, develop coping skills, and improve interpersonal relationships.
Dialectical behavioral therapy is grounded in four key components that work together to foster emotional and interpersonal well-being:
- Mindfulness practice involves cultivating present-moment awareness to reduce emotional reactivity and enhance focus.
- Distress tolerance equips individuals with skills to endure and manage crisis situations without resorting to harmful behaviors.
- Emotion regulation strategies help clients understand and modulate intense emotions.
- Interpersonal effectiveness techniques improve communication and build healthier relationships.
OUR DBT SERVICES
At Ottawa Therapy Group, some of our therapists use dialectical behavioural therapy in their approach to helping individuals work through their mental health issues and reach their goals. We offer the following DBT services:
Individual Therapy Sessions
- Personalized one-on-one sessions focused on the client’s unique challenges and goals.
- Emphasis on developing practical skills for managing emotions and navigating life’s challenges.
Skills Training Groups
- Structured group therapy sessions teaching core DBT skills: Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Emotion Regulation, and Interpersonal Effectiveness.
- Fostering a supportive community environment for shared learning and peer support.
Virtual Therapy Sessions
- Real-time support between sessions to help clients apply DBT skills in everyday situations.
- Providing immediate assistance to prevent relapse and manage crises effectively.
OUR DBT APPROACH
Our DBT approach is grounded in the following key components:
- Mindfulness Practice: Cultivating present-moment awareness to reduce emotional reactivity and enhance focus.
- Distress Tolerance: Developing skills to endure and manage crisis situations without resorting to harmful behaviors.
- Emotion Regulation: Strategies for understanding and modulating intense emotions.
- Interpersonal Effectiveness Skills: Techniques for improving communication and building healthy relationships.
WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM DBT?
Originally developed for borderline personality disorder, DBT is particularly adept at managing symptoms such as emotional dysregulation, impulsivity, and unstable interpersonal relationships.
For mood disorders, such as severe depression and bipolar disorder, DBT can help develop skills to handle intense emotions and reduce self-destructive behaviors. For anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety, and panic disorder, DBT helps individuals develop coping mechanisms and reduce avoidance behaviors.
This approach can also address the emotional issues underlying substance use disorders, promoting healthier coping strategies and reducing relapse rates. In treating eating disorders such as anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating disorder, DBT focuses on emotion regulation and minimizing harmful behaviors related to food and body image.
WHY CHOOSE OTTAWA THERAPY GROUP FOR DBT?
At Ottawa Therapy Group, we are proud to offer a team of highly qualified therapists, including registered psychotherapists and psychologists who specialize in many different therapeutic approaches, including dialectical behavior therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, emotion-focused therapy, and others.
We offer a supportive and confidential environment where you can openly explore and address your mental health concerns. We understand that flexibility is crucial, which is why we offer both in-person and virtual therapy options, ensuring that you can access care in a way that best fits your lifestyle. We strive to provide a compassionate setting that fosters your personal growth and well-being.