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What is DBT, and who is it for?
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) is a structured, skills-based approach originally developed to treat Borderline Personality Disorder and now widely used to support people experiencing emotional dysregulation, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, substance use disorders, and self-harming behaviours.
In DBT, the term dialectical refers to balancing acceptance with change. This means learning to accept yourself, your emotions, and your current circumstances while also working towards meaningful behavioural change and developing healthier ways of coping.
DBT teaches practical skills across four core areas: mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. Together, these skills can help you become more aware of your thoughts and feelings, cope with distress without making situations worse, manage intense emotions, and build healthier, more effective relationships.
It's worth knowing that there is a difference between comprehensive DBT and therapy that is DBT-informed. A full DBT program typically combines individual therapy with a structured DBT skills group and other components. These comprehensive programs are less commonly available through a general therapist directory. Many people searching this page will instead find therapists who integrate DBT skills and principles into individual therapy. This can still be a valuable way to work with DBT skills, but it's helpful to understand the difference when choosing a therapist.
What to know about DBT in Saskatoon
In-person vs. online availability
There are currently no First Session therapists offering in-person appointments in Saskatoon. However, Saskatoon residents can access secure online therapy with DBT therapists located in other provinces. Research has shown that online therapy can be just as effective as in-person therapy for many concerns, including those commonly treated with DBT, and it can also offer greater flexibility and access to specialized care.
Saskatchewan credentials
Saskatchewan's core mental health designation is Registered Social Worker (RSW), regulated by the Saskatchewan Association of Social Workers, alongside the national Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) designation. Because DBT-specific training is less common locally, many of the therapists available to Saskatoon residents are licensed in other provinces, commonly Ontario's Registered Psychotherapist (RP) designation, and are insured to provide online therapy to Saskatchewan clients.
Cost and insurance coverage
DBT-informed individual therapy available to Saskatoon residents typically costs around $120–$230 per session, depending on the therapist's designation, experience, and location. Insurance coverage depends on the therapist's professional designation and your specific extended health plan. RSW and CCC services are commonly covered by extended health plans, while some plans also cover out-of-province designations such as RP. Coverage varies between employers and insurers, so it's best to confirm your plan's requirements before booking.
How to choose a DBT therapist in Saskatoon
Find someone with experience in your concerns
DBT therapists serving Saskatoon can support clients with a range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, emotional dysregulation, relationship difficulties, self-harming behaviours, and more. On First Session, you can filter therapists by the concerns you'd like support with and explore their profiles to find someone whose experience and approach match what you're looking for.
Look for DBT training
If you're specifically looking for DBT, look for therapists who clearly describe their DBT training and experience. First Session therapist profiles include information about therapists' certifications, training, areas of expertise, and therapeutic approaches. This can help you understand how DBT fits into a therapist's practice and whether their experience is relevant to your needs.
Watch intro videos
Every therapist profile on First Session includes a short video introduction, giving you an opportunity to get a sense of the therapist's personality, communication style, and approach before booking. The relationship you build with your therapist is an important part of therapy, so finding someone you feel comfortable with can make a meaningful difference. Watching a few intro videos can help you narrow down your options before scheduling a consultation.
Book a free consultation
Every therapist on First Session offers a free 15-minute consultation. It's an opportunity to ask questions, discuss what you're hoping to work on, and get a sense of whether the therapist's approach and personality feel like a good fit before committing to ongoing therapy. If you're looking for DBT specifically, you can use the consultation to ask about the therapist's DBT training and how they incorporate DBT into individual therapy.
Looking for something more specific?
Filter by specialty in Saskatoon
- Anxiety Therapists in Saskatoon
- Trauma Therapists in Saskatoon
- BPD Therapists in Saskatoon
- OCD Therapists in Saskatoon
Related searches
Helpful reading
- DBT vs. CBT
- DBT vs. CBT vs. EMDR vs. Somatic therapy
- DBT exercises and techniques
- Signs you've found a good therapist
- Therapy cost and insurance coverage in Canada
