Dialectic Behaviour Therapy

Learn acceptance and change skills to better manage your thoughts, emotions and relationships

What is DBT Therapy?

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) is a type of cognitive-behavioral therapy that combines standard cognitive-behavioural techniques for emotion regulation and reality-testing with concepts of distress tolerance, acceptance, and mindfulness. It’s particularly effective for individuals with borderline personality disorder (BPD) but has also been adapted for other conditions. DBT emphasises validation of emotions while simultaneously encouraging change towards healthier behaviors and thought patterns.

DBT achieves its goals through a combination of individual therapy sessions, skills training groups, phone coaching, and therapist consultation teams. In individual therapy, you work on specific issues and behaviours you want to change, using techniques such as problem-solving and cognitive restructuring. Skills training groups teach practical skills in mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, emotion regulation, and distress tolerance. Phone coaching provides support between sessions for applying skills in real-life situations.

Within Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), there are four main specific areas or modules that are targeted for skill development

Mindfulness

This involves developing awareness of the present moment, without judgment, and cultivating an attitude of acceptance. Mindfulness skills help you observe your thoughts, emotions, and sensations without becoming overwhelmed by them.

Interpersonal Effectiveness

These skills focus on improving communication, assertiveness, and relationship management. You learn how to express your needs and desires effectively, set boundaries, and navigate interpersonal conflicts.

Emotion Regulation

This module teaches you how to identify, understand, and manage your emotions in healthy ways. Skills include strategies for increasing positive emotions, decreasing vulnerability to negative emotions, and coping with intense feelings without resorting to harmful behaviours.

Distress Tolerance

These skills are aimed at helping you tolerate and cope with distressing situations without making them worse. You learn techniques for accepting reality, distracting yourself from distress, self-soothing, and improving crisis survival skills.

Each of these areas is addressed through structured lessons and exercises in DBT skills training groups, as well as reinforced and applied in individual therapy sessions and phone coaching.

Find a DBT Therapist

Jono Derkenne

Accredited Mental Health Social Worker

Jono (He/Him) is an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker.

Annabel Igoe

Social Worker, Psychotherapist & Yoga

Annabel (She/Her) is an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker (BSW, MSW), Psychotherapist & Yoga Teacher.

Brooke Smith

Registered Psychologist

Brooke is a Psychologist with a background in the not-for-profit mental health and LGBTIQ health sectors.

Carli McIntyre

Occupational Therapist

Carli is a registered Occupational Therapist with 22 years’ experience in community & hospital mental health.

Chauncey Sjostedt

Gestalt Therapist

Chauncey (She/Her) is a dedicated healthcare professional with over ten years of experience

Delving into the Foundations: Understanding Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT) in Sydney

At Connecting Mental Health, we take pride in demystifying therapeutic techniques for Sydney residents, and one such approach that stands out is Dialectical Behavioural Therapy. With an enviable reputation spanning over 15 years, our founder, Jono Derkenne, has dedicated their life to bridging the mental health gaps in our society. DBT is one of our many evidence-based therapies addressing the unique emotional challenges many face. If you’re searching for dialectical behavioural therapy in Sydney, you’ve just landed at the right place.

Delving Deep: Understanding the Basics of DBT

The world of therapy is vast, and dialectical behavioural therapy in Sydney has become a beacon of hope for many. Originating as a cognitive-behavioural approach, DBT combines standard cognitive-behavioural techniques with concepts of distress tolerance derived from Buddhist meditative practice.

Why Choose DBT Therapy?

DBT isn’t just another acronym. It’s a lifeline for many, an approach that offers tools to handle painful emotions. For those searching for DBT therapy in Sydney, know that it focuses on improving skills to manage stress, regulate emotions, and enhance relationships with others.

Unveiling Our Premier DBT Services in Sydney

Choosing DBT therapy in Sydney through Connecting Mental Health isn’t just about attending a session—it’s a journey into comprehensive well-being. Our approach encompasses:

Expertise: With seasoned professionals who’ve delved deep into the intricacies of Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, we ensure that you’re in capable hands.
Experience: Harness the power of our team’s collective years in the field, offering tailored solutions derived from real-world applications of DBT.
Empathy: At the heart of our DBT therapy in Sydney lies a compassionate understanding of every individual’s unique struggles and aspirations.

Our commitment extends beyond the therapy room, ensuring you have the tools and support to navigate life’s challenges with resilience and grace.

Meet Our Experienced DBT Therapists

Our therapists, experts in dialectical behavioural therapy in Sydney, are not only trained but deeply committed to guiding clients through their DBT journey.

The Positive Impact: Benefits of DBT Therapy in Sydney

When you delve into the world of DBT therapy in Sydney through Connecting Mental Health, you’re opening doors to a myriad of transformative benefits:

Emotional Resilience: Learn to navigate life’s ups and downs with a steady mindset, embracing challenges and turning them into growth opportunities.
Relationship Enhancement: DBT provides tools to communicate effectively, understand others’ perspectives, and nurture healthy relationships with oneself and others.
Self-Empowerment: With the strategies and skills gained from our tailored DBT therapy in Sydney, you’ll discover a renewed sense of agency and confidence in steering your life’s direction.

Our commitment is to guide you through every step, ensuring that you harness the full potential of what DBT offers, leading to a fulfilling and balanced life.

Gaining Control: Improved Emotional Regulation with DBT

At the heart of DBT therapy in Sydney is the art and science of balancing one’s emotions, leading to improved mental well-being.

Building Bonds: Enhanced Interpersonal Skills through DBT

Our DBT therapy in Sydney goes beyond traditional counselling, helping individuals refine their interpersonal skills for healthier relationships.

Equip Yourself: Effective Coping Strategies

Life throws curveballs. DBT imparts strategies to not just cope but thrive amidst challenges.

Is DBT Therapy the Right Fit for You?

Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, often abbreviated as DBT, isn’t just any therapy. It’s an evidence-based approach focusing on enhancing life skills, regulating emotions, and forging a better relationship with oneself and the world. But is it the right choice for you?

Discovering Scope: Who Can Benefit from DBT in Sydney?

DBT has been a cornerstone for many individuals grappling with emotional dysregulation, self-destructive tendencies, borderline personality disorder, and general stress and anxiety. If you:

Find emotions overwhelming
Struggle with interpersonal conflicts
Face challenges in coping with stress or change

DBT could be the lantern lighting your way.

Setting the Stage: Getting Started with DBT Therapy in Sydney

Taking the first step towards any therapeutic journey requires clarity; we’re here to provide just that.

Online Introductory Assessment: Before delving deep, we offer an assessment, ensuring we tailor the DBT sessions to your unique needs and challenges.
60-Minute Telehealth Session: For those balancing the hectic Sydney life or preferring the comfort of their home, our Telehealth sessions ensure accessibility and convenience.
60-Minute In-Person Session: Meet our qualified Sydney therapists face-to-face in a setting that promotes openness, trust, and transformation.

The beauty of DBT lies in its comprehensive approach, focusing on acceptance and change, helping individuals live a more balanced life. At Connecting Mental Health, our qualified therapists are trained extensively in offering this therapy, ensuring you get the best care.

Make Your Mental Well-being a Priority

Take The Next Step with Us:

Navigating the realm of mental health can be overwhelming. However, with the proper guidance, the journey becomes transformative. Whether you want to understand DBT or seek therapy, Connecting Mental Health is your trusted partner.

Expertise & Experience: Backed by years of experience and a team of dedicated therapists, we bring best-practice and evidence-based treatments to you.
Personalised Care: Every individual is unique, and so should their therapy. Our services are tailored, ensuring they resonate with your specific needs.
Affordable & Trusted: Mental well-being shouldn’t break the bank. Our services are priced affordably while maintaining high-quality standards.

Reach Out Today

If you or a loved one is seeking clarity, healing, or understanding in mental health, don’t hesitate. Connect with us and embrace a future of understanding and holistic well-being. Your journey towards better mental health begins with a simple step. Take it with Connecting Mental Health.