Immediate danger? Call 911. Health advice: call 811. Suicide crisis support: call or text 988.

Frequently asked questions

Straight answers about DBT, groups, privacy, fees, risk, and what happens next.

These answers explain the general service model. Your intake recommendation may differ because clinical fit depends on risk, history, current supports, goals, and the amount of structure needed.

  • DBT services are structured and clinician-led
  • Group participation does not require forced personal disclosure
  • Secure online care is available across Saskatchewan
  • The clinic is not an emergency service

Looking for a program-specific answer?

Each service page includes fit guidance, structure, fees, common questions, and related pathways.

  • Clinician-reviewed intake
  • Clear service recommendation
  • No referral required
  • No obligation to continue
Starting and fit

Starting and fit

Do I need a diagnosis before starting?

No. Intake can begin with symptoms, repeated patterns, treatment history, risk, goals, and functioning. A diagnosis may be relevant, but it is not the only entry point.

Can I select a program myself?

You can identify preferences. A clinician still reviews whether the chosen service provides enough support and whether another pathway is more appropriate.

Do I need a physician referral?

No referral is generally required for the secure intake. Referrals from physicians and other professionals are welcome.

What happens after I submit the intake?

A clinician reviews the information and recommends a starting point, requests any necessary clarification, and addresses scheduling and funding considerations. Submitting the intake does not commit you to treatment.

Groups and participation

Groups and participation

Do other participants see my full name?

The program establishes privacy and naming expectations during orientation. Participants may use a preferred name where appropriate.

Do I have to talk about my trauma or private life?

No. DBT groups are structured learning environments. Participation and practice are expected, but forced disclosure is not.

How do I access sessions and the learning platform?

After orientation and group placement, participants receive secure joining information and instructions for the STG learning platform and materials.

What if I miss a group session?

Program-specific attendance and catch-up expectations are explained before treatment begins so one absence does not automatically become dropout.

Safety and clinical support

Safety and clinical support

Can DBT help with self-harm or suicidal behaviour?

DBT was developed for high-risk patterns, but the amount of support matters. Group alone may not be sufficient. Immediate danger requires emergency care.

Is secure messaging monitored continuously?

No. Messaging is used according to the treatment plan and is not an emergency response system.

Can DBT replace medication or psychiatric care?

No. Medical assessment, diagnosis, prescribing, and medication monitoring belong with authorized medical professionals.

What if DBT is not the right treatment?

The clinic should say so and recommend another service, clinician, assessment, or level of care when possible.

Fees, funding, and privacy

Fees, funding, and privacy

Do insurance plans cover DBT?

Many plans reimburse eligible counselling, psychotherapy, or psychological services, but coverage depends on the clinician and individual plan.

Are NIHB and Métis Nation–Saskatchewan options available?

NIHB may be available for eligible clients when provider, service, and authorization requirements are met; not every group or skills-training format is eligible. Current Métis Nation–Saskatchewan funding for these services should be confirmed directly and should not be assumed.

Is online therapy private?

The clinic uses secure systems, but clients also need a private space, stable connection, and a plan for interruptions or emergencies.

How is my information used?

Information is used for clinical care, administration, funding, and legal obligations according to consent, privacy law, and clinic policies.

A practical next step

Still unsure which answer applies to you?

The intake is designed to turn general information into a clinically useful recommendation.