A program designed to help you build a life worth living.

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy was developed at the University of Washington by Psychologist Dr. Marsha Linehan. Originally designed as a therapy to treat para-suicidal behaviour, self-harm and emotion dysregulation, it has since been shown as helpful for a number of other problems including eating disorders, substance abuse, anxiety and depression.

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy incorporates elements of classical philosophy (Dialectics), behavioural psychology, and Zen Buddhism.

Dialectics is the idea that opposites can coexist in the world and be balanced by some form of overarching principle or synthesis which gives them both validity. In this way clients are taught to balance the extreme black and white thinking that often leads to problems in their life and relationships.

Behavioural psychology is based on the understanding that human behaviour is governed by a set of contingencies or rules that determine the likelihood of a particular behaviour occurring. Clients are taught to analyze their own behaviour patterns in a systematic way and identify the reinforcers that are maintaining these behaviours. Once the reinforcers in a particular situation are identified then clients are in a much better position to implement strategies that can successfully create positive change.

 The Buddhist influence in DBT is seen in the use of mindfulness meditative practice. Clients learn a method that enables them to be more in touch with their emotions and thoughts yet at the same time to not be controlled by them. This state of mind is called wise mind. When the client is consistently able to enter into wise mind they will be more grounded, make better judgments, and be less reactive emotionally.

Our DBT program combines these theoretical elements in a practical manner that gives clients the skills they need to effectively manage their issues.