Building Skills for a More Balanced Life
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) is a structured, evidence-based approach that combines cognitive-behavioural techniques with mindfulness and acceptance strategies. Originally developed to treat borderline personality disorder, DBT is now widely used to help people manage intense emotions, improve relationships, and reduce self-destructive behaviours.
DBT teaches practical skills across four key areas: mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. It’s especially helpful for those who experience overwhelming emotions or find it difficult to cope with distressing situations.
Benefits of DBT Therapy
DBT provides a comprehensive skills-based approach to emotional wellbeing. Some of the key benefits include:
Improved emotional regulation: Learn to understand and manage intense emotions rather than being overwhelmed by them.
Greater distress tolerance: Build skills to cope with difficult situations and crises without resorting to harmful behaviours.
Stronger relationships: Develop more effective communication and interpersonal skills to navigate relationships with greater confidence.
Increased mindfulness: Cultivate present-moment awareness to help you respond to life’s challenges with greater clarity and calm.
Through dedicated support and consistent effort, DBT therapy can help you:
Reduce the Impact of Symptoms: Experience a significant decrease in the frequency and severity of your distress.
Build Emotional Resilience: Strengthen your capacity to manage intense emotions and navigate life’s challenges.
Cultivate Well-Being: Build emotional resilience, experience increased happiness, and achieve a more fulfilling life.
Taking the first step towards DBT therapy is a courageous and empowering decision that can unlock your full potential and help you manage your challenges effectively.
How DBT Therapy Works
DBT therapy typically begins with an assessment of the emotional and behavioural patterns contributing to your current difficulties.
Your therapist will teach you practical skills across four key areas: mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness.
You’ll practise applying these skills to real-life situations, often using structured worksheets and exercises between sessions.
Your therapist will discuss the most suitable approach for you and work collaboratively with you to shape the course of your treatment.
What to Expect
DBT is a collaborative process between you and a qualified therapist. It involves:
Building Trust and Rapport: Creating a safe and supportive environment where you can openly discuss your thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
Learning Core Skills: Developing practical strategies across mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness.
Practising Between Sessions: Applying new skills in everyday life through structured exercises and homework tasks.
Reviewing Progress: Reflecting on how you’ve been able to apply your skills and identifying areas for continued growth.
Monitoring Progress: Regularly reflecting on your progress and adjusting the approach as needed.
How to Access the Service
To begin therapy, please get in touch with our friendly administrative team via our contact page, phone, or email address and we will send you an intake form and our information sheet and consent form to start the intake process.
You do not need a referral to book an initial appointment, however you may want to discuss your needs with your general practitioner (GP) to determine if you qualify for Medicare funding, which can cover up to ten sessions with a Mental Health Care Plan. In such cases, you would need a referral. Additionally, private health insurance rebates may be available through your provider.