Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based approach developed by Marsha Linehan to support individuals experiencing intense emotions, relationship difficulties, impulsive behaviours, and challenges with emotional regulation. Originally designed to treat Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), also known as Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder (EUPD), DBT is now widely used to support a broad range of mental health difficulties.

At its core, DBT focuses on four key areas: mindfulness, emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness. These skills help people develop greater awareness of their thoughts and feelings, manage emotional distress more effectively, improve communication, and build healthier relationships.

While DBT was developed for a specific clinical population, many of its principles are relevant to everyday life. Most of us are not taught how to recognise, understand, and express emotions in a healthy and constructive way. Likewise, many people have never learned practical strategies for coping with stress, uncertainty, conflict, or overwhelming feelings. The good news is that these skills can be learned and strengthened over time.

Mindfulness helps us stay present and connected to our experiences without becoming overwhelmed by them. Emotional regulation skills support us in understanding and responding to emotions rather than reacting impulsively. Distress tolerance techniques provide practical ways to navigate difficult moments without making situations worse, while interpersonal effectiveness skills help us communicate our needs, set boundaries, and maintain meaningful relationships.

Whether you are struggling with anxiety, low mood, relationship challenges, emotional overwhelm, or simply want to improve your wellbeing, DBT offers practical tools that can support greater resilience, self-awareness, and emotional balance.

As an integrative therapist, I draw upon evidence-based approaches, including DBT-informed skills, to help clients develop healthier ways of coping, improve emotional wellbeing, and create lasting positive change.

Read more and how to contact Claire Messenger http://www.talktherapywithclaire.org