What is DBT?
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) is a form of cognitive-behavioural therapy designed to help people manage overwhelming emotions, improve relationships, and build coping skills.
Originally developed for borderline personality disorder, DBT is now used to treat many challenges where emotion regulation is key. DBT combines acceptance strategies (acknowledging your current experience) with change strategies (building new skills and responses).
Who is DBT For?
DBT is especially effective for:
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Intense emotions and mood swings
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Suicidal thoughts or self-harming behaviours
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Depression or anxiety with strong emotional reactivity
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Relationship struggles and conflict
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Substance use combined with emotional distress
How DBT Works
DBT teaches four core skill areas:
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Mindfulness – staying present and aware
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Distress Tolerance – surviving crises without making things worse
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Emotion Regulation – understanding and managing feelings
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Interpersonal Effectiveness – building healthy, assertive relationships
Therapy often includes skills practice, coping tools, and homework to apply strategies in daily life.
Benefits of DBT
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Builds healthier coping strategies
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Reduces self-destructive behaviours
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Improves stability in mood and relationships
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Practical, skills-based, and highly structured
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Effective online for clients across Ontario
DBT at Tiny Therapy Collective
Our therapists use DBT techniques in both individual and group formats. Whether you want to learn practical coping skills or work on building healthier relationships, DBT offers structure and support for meaningful change.
Getting Started
We offer a free 15-minute consultation to help you explore whether DBT is right for you
