Dynamic Deconstructive Psychotherapy
The Path of Exploring Choices
I have Advanced Competency in Dynamic Deconstructive Psychotherapy (DDP)—an evidence-based treatment designed for individuals struggling with borderline personality disorder, suicidal thoughts and behaviors, chronic depression and anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and more.
DDP is a structured 12-month treatment working towards recovery, with the view that clients have autonomy in their lives. This fundamental difference means DDP looks very different from other types of therapy. DDP does not provide advice, problem-solving or skills as it moves away from a chronic illness-based model of care.
Clients meet weekly as they connect to emotional experiences, explore emotions and reactions, integrate more complex and realistic views of experiences, work towards self-acceptance and self-compassion and learn to develop authentic, meaningful relationships. By addressing underlying vulnerabilities of conditions clients experience, DDP can be transformative.
I have Advanced Competency in DDP and meet weekly with peers for supervision and case consultation. I’m also able to supervise individuals seeking competency in this area.
The Treatment Framework & Stages
DDP is a structured, evidence-based journey operating through 4 stages, with central emotional and relational conflicts that the client navigates throughout.
Deconstruction & Brain Shift
Deconstruction starts with labeling feelings in a narrative sequence. This helps shift activity from the brain’s fear center to the prefrontal cortex, which biologically aids in emotional processing.
Daily Connection Sheets
The vital role of daily connection sheets is to practice labeling responses, emotions, and what you wished instead, even with seemingly mundane interactions. This builds emotional processing tolerance for later stages.
4 Stages & Central Conflicts
Throughout DDP, clients explore likes, dislikes, and acknowledge opposing parts/feelings with the therapist. This aids integration, preventing splitting into absolute black-or-white views.
Autonomy & The 'Low Dive' First
Client autonomy is respected; you choose what to explore. The only guidelines in Stage 1 are to limit/avoid details of early trauma, feelings of anger and ambivalence of parental figures. We don’t want to jump off the high dive into deeper emotions until you’ve mastered the low dive first.
Is DDP Right for You?
While originally designed for borderline personality symptoms, research has shown DDP to be highly successful for a variety of complex emotional experiences:
Chronic Anxiety
Depression
Trauma & PTSD
Substance Use
Suicidality
Relationship Issues
Emotional Stuckness
Relationship Conflict
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Weekly Commitment
DDP requires a commitment to weekly sessions for 12 months. Consistency is vital for the neurological rewiring process.
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Active Participation
You'll be asked to reflect on your experiences and emotions in a structured way, taking the lead in your own healing.
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Measuring Progress
We use evidence-based assessments at regular intervals to track your progress in real time, which can be empowering.
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Safe Environment
I provide a non-judgmental, secure space where you can explore even the most difficult experiences with support.
What to Expect
DDP is a journey of discovery. It’s not about being “fixed,” but about becoming more integrated and flexible in how you experience life and relationships.
Supporting Clinicians & Teams
I meet weekly for peer supervision and case consultation to ensure quality of care. As an Advanced Competency Therapist in DDP, I can also provide supervision for those interested in learning more about this treatment modality. It can provide a unique way to assist clients or patients, especially if other types of therapy or solely medication management has not been as successful.
I remember feeling inspired and hopeful when I learned how DDP can transform lives for clients who have been suffering intensely. If you are interested in training, please reach out to discuss how I can support your team or community.
Take the Driver's Seat
If you’re ready for a structured, transformative approach to your mental health, let’s discuss if DDP is the right fit for your journey.