About Amanda Buckingham

I grew up in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, and spent 20 years working as a tap dancer and musical theatre performer. After moving to Toronto in 2012, I slowly began to realize that the artist’s life was not for me. As I reflected on my options for a career transition, I recognized that my passion for stories, vulnerability, and a deep understanding of emotions had led me to pursue a career in theatre and dance. When I realized that these same passions could be channeled into a fulfilling career in the mental health field—a field that had always appealed to me, given my own lived experience with mental health challenges—I put my tap shoes up on a shelf and shuffled off to university.

I began my journey toward becoming a Registered Social Worker at Ryerson University (Now Toronto Metropolitan), where I earned my Bachelor’s of Social Work. From there, I went to the University of Toronto, where I earned my Master’s of Social Work. I completed my training in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health and worked on a comprehensive DBT team at Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences. Eventually, I started my own private practice, where I offered individual DBT services and DBT skills classes. When I discovered RO DBT, I was so excited by how this therapy could help those who struggle with maladaptive overcontrol.

Are you struggling with things like anxiety, depression, perfectionism, or loneliness? Or maybe you’re not even sure what you’re struggling with, but you’re not feeling great? Reach out, and let’s chat!