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Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) is a structured, evidence-informed form of cognitive-behavioural therapy designed to help people manage intense emotions, reduce harmful coping patterns, and build practical skills for daily life. “Dialectical” refers to holding two realities at once—acceptance of current experience while also working toward meaningful change.
DBT focuses on helping you understand emotional patterns, respond with more control, and build behaviours that support stability and wellbeing over time.
DBT is commonly used when emotional dysregulation is a significant concern. Many people seek DBT support for challenges such as:
DBT is skills-based and practical. The goal is not to judge emotions, but to build more effective ways to cope with them.
Mindfulness skills help you notice thoughts, emotions, and urges without automatically reacting. This supports greater emotional awareness and more intentional responses.
Distress tolerance skills help you get through painful moments without making the situation worse. These skills are designed for crisis moments and high-intensity emotions.
These skills focus on communication, boundaries, and conflict management—helping you ask for what you need, say no when necessary, and protect self-respect while maintaining important relationships.
Emotion regulation skills help you understand emotional triggers, reduce vulnerability to intense emotions, and build strategies that support steadier mood and behaviour.
DBT is often delivered through a combination of supports, depending on clinical need and service availability:
One-on-one sessions focus on personal goals, identifying unhelpful patterns, and applying DBT skills to real situations.
Skills training may be offered in a group or structured format to learn and practise the four core skill areas.
Some DBT models include between-session coaching to help clients apply skills during difficult moments. Your therapist will clarify what is available and appropriate.
At The Cohen Clinic, DBT-informed care is offered with a focus on practical skill-building, emotional safety, and clear goals. If you are looking for DBT in Toronto, our psychologists, psychotherapists, and social workers can help you build a treatment plan that supports emotional regulation, healthier coping, and stronger relationships.