Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT)

What is DBT?

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based form of therapy that combines practical skills with mindfulness and acceptance strategies. Initially developed for individuals who experience intense emotions or struggle with self-destructive behaviors, DBT has since been proven effective in treating a wide range of mental health challenges such as emotion regulation, impulsivity, and relationship difficulties.

The key principles of DBT include:

Dialectics — holding two truths at once (for example, “I’m doing the best I can” and “I want to do better”).
Skills training — learning concrete tools for managing emotions, relationships, distress, and self-awareness.
Balance — combining acceptance of your current reality with a focus on meaningful change.

DBT may be a good fit if you experience:

Intense emotions that feel overwhelming
Difficulty coping with stress or crisis
Struggles with self-harm or suicidal thoughts
Relationship patterns marked by conflict or instability
Impulsive or self-destructive behaviors
Feeling “out of control” or disconnected from yourself

How does it work?

DBT is both supportive and skills-based. In sessions, you’ll work with your therapist to:

Build awareness of your emotions and triggers.
Practice DBT skills in four core areas:
- Mindfulness (staying present and grounded)
- Emotion Regulation (understanding and managing strong feelings)
- Distress Tolerance (coping with pain or crisis in healthier ways)
- Interpersonal Effectiveness (improving communication and boundaries)
Apply these tools in your daily life, so therapy becomes practical and actionable.

What does DBT treatment look like?

At Evergreen Therapeutics, DBT treatment is tailored to your goals and pace. A typical course of DBT might include:

Individual therapy focused on your specific challenges.
Skills practice during and between sessions to help you integrate what you learn.
Tracking progress together, so we can celebrate wins and make adjustments where needed.

You won’t just talk about your struggles—you’ll leave with tools you can practice right away, helping you feel more in control of your emotions and choices.

“Feelings are something you have; not something you are”

Why work with us?

At Evergreen Therapeutics, we believe DBT works best when you feel supported, understood, and empowered.

Clients choose us because:

We meet you with compassion — not judgment.
We tailor DBT to your needs — whether you’re looking for a focused skills-based approach or longer-term support.
We focus on real progress — helping you use tools that improve daily life, not just therapy sessions.
We value collaboration — therapy is a partnership, and we walk alongside you in your growth.

Therapists Who Can Help

Francesca Lupo

M.Ed., Registered Psychotherapist
Individual & Couples Therapist

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Daniela Violo

M.A., Registered Psychotherapist
EMDR & Couples Therapist

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DBT FAQs

How long does DBT usually take?

There isn’t a set timeline. Some clients benefit from learning a few skills over a shorter period, while others choose to work through the full DBT model over a longer time. The focus is on what you need—your goals, your pace, your life. At Evergreen Therapeutics, we’ll check in regularly and adjust treatment so it feels effective and sustainable.

Is DBT only for people with Borderline Personality Disorder?

Not at all. While DBT was developed for BPD, research shows it’s effective for a wide range of struggles, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and emotional dysregulation.

What makes DBT different from other therapies?

DBT combines acceptance and change—helping you validate your current experience while also building skills to create meaningful change in your life.

What is the difference between CBT and DBT?

CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) and DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) are both evidence-based therapies, but they focus on different things.

CBT helps you identify and change unhelpful thought patterns that impact your feelings and behaviors. It’s structured, goal-oriented, and gives you tools to challenge negative thinking and build healthier habits.
DBT is a specialized form of CBT that focuses more on managing intense emotions and building skills for coping, relationships, and mindfulness. It combines change strategies with acceptance—helping you learn practical tools while also validating your current experience.