Dialectical Behaviour Therapy edmonton
What is DBT?
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based psychotherapy developed by psychologist Dr. Marsha Linehan. While originally developed to treat Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), DBT is now widely used to help children, teens and adults experiencing emotional dysregulation, anxiety, depression, self-harm, relationship difficulties, trauma-related concerns, and intense emotions.
The word dialectical refers to bringing together two seemingly opposite ideas:
Acceptance: Learning to acknowledge and accept your thoughts, emotions, and experiences without judgment.
Change: Learning practical skills to manage thoughts and emotions so you can build a life that aligns with your goals and values.
"Wisdom and freedom require the ability to allow the natural flow of emotions to come and go, experiencing emotions but not being controlled by emotions." — Marsha Linehan
Skills covered: Core Mindfulness • Distress Tolerance •Emotion Regulation• Interpersonal Effectiveness
Who Can Benefit from DBT?
DBT may be helpful if you experience:
- Intense emotions that feel difficult to manage
- Mood swings
- Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)
- Anxiety disorders
- Depression
- ADHD and emotional impulsivity
- Self-harm urges
- Suicidal thoughts (when clinically appropriate)
- Difficulty managing anger
- Relationship conflict
- People-pleasing or boundary difficulties
- Emotional sensitivity
You do not need a diagnosis of Borderline Personality Disorder to benefit from DBT.
What Happens in DBT?
DBT is practical, collaborative, and skills-focused.
Sessions often include:
- Understanding current challenges
- Identifying emotional patterns
- Learning new DBT skills
- Practising skills between sessions
- Reviewing what worked and what didn't
- Building a life that aligns with your values
DBT Treatments at KALM Psychology
Individual DBT
One-on-one therapy tailored to your unique life history, circumstances, and present day challenges using DBT principles and evidence-based interventions.
Adult & Teen DBT Skills Groups
Structured 10 week or 12 week psychoeducational, classroom-style groups that teach practical DBT skills to help participants regulate emotions, manage stress, tolerate distress, improve relationships, and build a life worth living.
Monthly DBT Club
An ongoing community for individuals wanting continued practice, accountability, and support while strengthening DBT skills.
Is DBT Right for Me?
DBT may be a good fit if you:
- Feel emotions very intensely
- React impulsively and later regret your actions
- Struggle with relationships
- Feel stuck in repeating patterns
- Want practical coping strategies rather than only talking about problems
- Are committed to learning and practising new skills
A consultation with DBT trained psychologist, Zahra Domingo, can help determine whether DBT is the best approach for your individual needs. Head over to our Blog to read more about whether DBT is right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is DBT only for Borderline Personality Disorder?
No. Although DBT was originally developed for BPD, research has shown it is effective for many mental health concerns involving emotional dysregulation.
How many sessions does DBT typically require?
Treatment varies depending on your goals. Some clients benefit from learning specific DBT skills over several months, while comprehensive DBT programs often last approximately one year.
Can I do DBT if I already have another therapist?
Depending on your circumstances, participating in a DBT skills group may be possible while continuing individual therapy with another clinician. This can be discussed during your consultation.
Do I need a diagnosis?
Not at all. Many people benefit from DBT skills without meeting criteria for a specific mental health diagnosis.