Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), developed by Marsha Linehan PhD at the University of Washington, is a type of psychotherapy (sometimes called “talking therapy”) for Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). DBT is often referred to as a cognitive behavioural therapy, meaning it is a therapy that focuses on the role of cognition (e.g., thoughts and beliefs) and behaviours (e.g., actions) in the development and treatment of BPD. DBT includes some changes to the traditional cognitive behavioural elements of therapy in order to help specifically reduce the symptoms of BPD including a stronger focus on behavioural change with a continued commitment to acceptance-based strategies including validation. Additionally, DBT focuses on a hierarchy of in-session targets in skills training, individual therapy and phone coaching. DBT is also known as a team-based approach with all clinicians involved in treatment attending a weekly/fortnightly consultation team meeting.

Program Content

• Overview of DBT Theory (Research, Theoretical Basis, Stages of Treatment, Structure)
• Commitment in DBT
• Skills Training
• Individual Therapy
• Phone Coaching