DBT-informed emotional support
BPD Counselling in Nanaimo
Intense emotions and relationships that feel like a rollercoaster are exhausting. This is structured, compassionate, skills-based support for finding steadier ground.
- ✓DBT-informed
- ✓Skills for intense emotions
- ✓In-person or virtual across BC
In person in Nanaimo · virtual across British Columbia
Written by The Counselling HUB · Reviewed June 2026
BPD counselling at The Counselling HUB draws on Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) principles to help you manage intense emotions, steady relationships, and build a stronger sense of self. It is DBT-informed individual counselling, not a comprehensive DBT program. We do not provide diagnostic assessments.
This may be the right fit if you notice
- Emotions that rise fast, feel overwhelming, and take a long time to settle
- Relationships that swing between closeness and a fear of being abandoned
- A sense of self that shifts depending on who you are with
- Urges to act quickly to escape painful feelings, then regret afterwards
- Feeling empty, or like you are too much for the people around you
- Wanting practical tools rather than only talking through what happened
How we work
The work is structured and kind. We balance acceptance of where you are with building the skills to change what is not working.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Emotion regulation, distress tolerance, mindfulness, and interpersonal effectiveness skills.
How this worksCognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Notice and shift the thought patterns that fuel emotional spirals.
How this worksInternal Family Systems (IFS)
Understand the protective parts of you and the experiences that shaped them.
How this worksWhat the work looks like
- 1
Understand your patterns
We map triggers, emotions, and the cycles that show up in your relationships.
- 2
Build core skills
You learn grounding, mindfulness, and distress tolerance tools to use between sessions.
- 3
Strengthen relationships
We practise communicating needs and setting boundaries without losing connection.
- 4
Build a steadier sense of self
We work on self-worth, values, and the experiences underneath the intensity.
Not sure if BPD counselling is the right starting point?
Contact our team to ask questions, discuss fit, and decide on the right next step.
✓ A good fit for
- Adults with a BPD diagnosis, or who recognise these patterns in themselves
- People who want structured, skills-based support
- Anyone ready to work on emotions and relationships at a steady pace
! When another path fits better
- A comprehensive DBT program with skills groups and phone coaching
- Diagnostic assessments - your doctor can advise on options
- Active crisis needing urgent care - call 9-1-1, or call or text 9-8-8
"Intense feelings are not a flaw. With the right skills and support, they can become something you can work with.
If you are not sure where to start, you can also explore individual counselling or trauma counselling or ADHD & autism counselling. You can always contact our team to talk it through first.
BPD Counselling - Common Questions
No. Some clients have a diagnosis and some simply recognise intense emotions and relationship patterns in their own lives. We focus on what you are experiencing and the skills that help.
No. Our counselling is DBT-informed: we draw on DBT skills and principles within individual sessions. It is not a comprehensive DBT program with skills groups and phone coaching.
No. We do not provide diagnostic assessments. If you want a formal assessment, your doctor can advise on options.
Typically emotion regulation, distress tolerance, mindfulness, communication in relationships, self-worth, and understanding where these patterns come from. The pace is yours.
Yes. Skills-based and relational approaches have helped many people with BPD build stability and healthier relationships. Change takes time, and we go at a pace that feels safe.
Counselling is not a crisis service. If you are in immediate danger, call 9-1-1, or call or text 9-8-8 for the Suicide Crisis Helpline, available 24/7 across Canada.
Yes. Sessions are available in person in Nanaimo and by secure video anywhere in British Columbia.
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional mental health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please contact the 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline at 9-8-8.
You Do Not Have to Figure This Out Alone
The clinical director responds to most inquiries within 24 hours.