Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)
What is DBT?
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) is a practical, skills-based approach that helps you handle intense emotions, get through difficult moments without making them worse, and build a life that feels steadier and more connected. It brings together two things that can seem like opposites — accepting yourself exactly as you are right now, and working toward meaningful change.
DBT was originally developed for people who feel emotions very intensely, and the same skills help with anxiety, low mood, stress, impulsive reactions, and strain in relationships.
At Collaborative Therapy, we offer DBT-informed individual therapy — we weave DBT skills into your one-on-one sessions and tailor them to what’s actually happening in your life.
COLLABORATIVE THERAPY CLINIC
How DBT Works
DBT is built around four core skill sets we practise together and apply to real situations:
Mindfulness — noticing what's happening in the present moment, with less judgment and more clarity.
Distress Tolerance — getting through painful or overwhelming moments without doing things that make them worse.
Emotion Regulation — understanding your emotions, easing their intensity, and responding instead of reacting.
Interpersonal Effectiveness — asking for what you need, saying no, and setting boundaries while protecting the relationships that matter.
What DBT Can Treat
DBT skills can support a wide range of experiences, including:
Emotions that feel intense, fast, or hard to manage
Anxiety and persistent worry
Low mood and depression
Feeling overwhelmed or shut down by stress
Impulsive reactions you later regret
Conflict and difficulty in relationships
Trouble setting boundaries
Harsh self-criticism
What to Expect in DBT Sessions
DBT sessions are warm, collaborative, and practical. Together we'll notice the patterns getting in your way, learn a skill that helps, and figure out how to use it in everyday life. You'll often try skills between sessions, and we'll review what worked and what didn't — there's no pressure to get it perfect. The pace follows you.
A Balanced Approach
The heart of DBT is holding two truths at once: you are doing the best you can with what you've learned so far, and you can build new skills that make life feel more manageable. This balance of acceptance and change is what makes DBT feel both compassionate and genuinely useful.
Is DBT Right for You?
DBT may be a good fit if your emotions often feel bigger than the situation, if you react in ways you later wish you hadn't, if relationships feel turbulent, or if you simply want concrete tools rather than only talking things through. If you're not sure, a free 15-minute consultation is a good place to start.
DBTDBT Therapists in Mississauga
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Irene Iskenderova
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Ashley Bagg
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Kate Jurowicz
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between CBT and DBT?
CBT focuses on identifying and shifting unhelpful thought patterns. DBT builds on that and adds skills for managing intense emotions and relationships, with a strong emphasis on balancing acceptance and change. Many people benefit from elements of both.
Do I need a diagnosis to try DBT?
No. You don't need any diagnosis to benefit from DBT skills. They help with everyday emotional overwhelm, anxiety, and stress — not just specific conditions.
Do you offer a full DBT program with group classes?
We offer DBT-informed individual therapy — we bring DBT skills into your one-on-one sessions and tailor them to you. We don't currently run a separate weekly skills group or phone coaching, so if you're looking for a full, structured DBT program, we're happy to help you understand your options.
How long does DBT take?
It varies. Some people feel steadier after learning a few key skills; others prefer longer-term support. We check in regularly and adjust to your goals.
Is DBT available online?
Yes. We offer DBT-informed sessions in person in Mississauga and online across Ontario.
Ready to Get Started?
If you're ready to begin or want to learn more about how DBT can support you, you are welcome to reach out.