Borderline Personality (BPD) Counselling in Auchenflower, QLD

Photo of Dr Pauline Baleta, PhD, MAPS, Psychologist
Dr Pauline Baleta
Psychologist, PhD, MAPS
Verified Verified
Auchenflower, QLD 4066
Pauline is a clinical psychologist in Paddington with over 15 years experience, initially in South Africa and more recently in Australia. She has a broad range of expertise in treating multiple psychiatric conditions including depression, PTSD, childhood trauma, anxiety, schizophrenia and bipolar. She also provides therapy for the day-to-day challenges of life, death, loss and separation as well as domestic violence.
Pauline is a clinical psychologist in Paddington with over 15 years experience, initially in South Africa and more recently in Australia. She has a broad range of expertise in treating multiple psychiatric conditions including depression, PTSD, childhood trauma, anxiety, schizophrenia and bipolar. She also provides therapy for the day-to-day challenges of life, death, loss and separation as well as domestic violence.
0456 615 599 View 0456 615 599
Photo of Dr Nicole Hess, PhD, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Dr Nicole Hess
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Auchenflower, QLD 4066
Dr Nicole is both founder and director of A to Z Psychology and A to Z Learning Pathways. Nicole aims to empower her clients to explore, unlock, and build on their innate capacity for growth and development. The mantra of A to Z Learning Pathways and A to Z psychology of , "Enhancing minds", is applied across all age groups. The letters "A to Z" represent the unique nature and needs of each individual client. Nicole works with each client to formulate treatment plans, assessment protocols, and advocacy service (usually for educational support) that best meet individual needs. Nicole works with children, teens,and older individuals.
Dr Nicole is both founder and director of A to Z Psychology and A to Z Learning Pathways. Nicole aims to empower her clients to explore, unlock, and build on their innate capacity for growth and development. The mantra of A to Z Learning Pathways and A to Z psychology of , "Enhancing minds", is applied across all age groups. The letters "A to Z" represent the unique nature and needs of each individual client. Nicole works with each client to formulate treatment plans, assessment protocols, and advocacy service (usually for educational support) that best meet individual needs. Nicole works with children, teens,and older individuals.
(07) 2100 4824 View (07) 2100 4824
Photo of Mathew Heilig, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Mathew Heilig
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Auchenflower, QLD 4066
I work with people experiencing various psychological difficulties including anxiety and depression, trauma, issues with impulsivity and abandonment, grief and loss, difficulty coping with emotions, overwhelming stress, and low self-esteem. I work with individuals in a non-judgemental, warm, enthusiastic, and collaborative manner to assist them with achieving their therapeutic goals and help them live valued and meaningful lives. I also accept Workcover QLD referrals.
I work with people experiencing various psychological difficulties including anxiety and depression, trauma, issues with impulsivity and abandonment, grief and loss, difficulty coping with emotions, overwhelming stress, and low self-esteem. I work with individuals in a non-judgemental, warm, enthusiastic, and collaborative manner to assist them with achieving their therapeutic goals and help them live valued and meaningful lives. I also accept Workcover QLD referrals.
(07) 3186 5678 View (07) 3186 5678
Photo of Kareena Sajnani, MC, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Kareena Sajnani
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Auchenflower, QLD 4066
I specialise in helping clients work through trauma, grief, attachment issues, and family dynamics. Whether you're facing deep personal challenges or navigating complex family relationships, my goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where healing can begin.
I specialise in helping clients work through trauma, grief, attachment issues, and family dynamics. Whether you're facing deep personal challenges or navigating complex family relationships, my goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where healing can begin.
(07) 2100 4641 View (07) 2100 4641
Photo of Lucia Do, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Lucia Do
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Auchenflower, QLD 4066
Lucia is a clinical psychologist who works individually with adult clients and currently is accepting new client bookings. Appointments can easily be made by calling reception during office hours or by email. Lucia’s therapy approach aims to go beyond management strategies to collaboratively recognise and address clients’ core issues, including automatic negative thinking and self-defeating behaviour patterns to facilitate improved self-worth, emotional health and interpersonal relationships.
Lucia is a clinical psychologist who works individually with adult clients and currently is accepting new client bookings. Appointments can easily be made by calling reception during office hours or by email. Lucia’s therapy approach aims to go beyond management strategies to collaboratively recognise and address clients’ core issues, including automatic negative thinking and self-defeating behaviour patterns to facilitate improved self-worth, emotional health and interpersonal relationships.
(07) 3132 3979 View (07) 3132 3979
Photo of Ivannia Mena, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Ivannia Mena
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Auchenflower, QLD 4066
Psychologist and Practice Director Ivannia Mena is an experienced therapist with a broad range of skills in the treatment of mood disorders, at-risk behaviours, criminal attitudes, addiction and trauma. Ivannia aims to provide the highest standard of psychological support to individuals looking to work at the core of their symptoms, to develop insight, increase self awareness and learn adaptive coping skills. Mindful Perspectives Psychology welcomes adolescents, adults and older adults with cognitive, behavioural, and emotional concerns, offering practical, effective and confidential support in a safe and supportive treatment space.
Psychologist and Practice Director Ivannia Mena is an experienced therapist with a broad range of skills in the treatment of mood disorders, at-risk behaviours, criminal attitudes, addiction and trauma. Ivannia aims to provide the highest standard of psychological support to individuals looking to work at the core of their symptoms, to develop insight, increase self awareness and learn adaptive coping skills. Mindful Perspectives Psychology welcomes adolescents, adults and older adults with cognitive, behavioural, and emotional concerns, offering practical, effective and confidential support in a safe and supportive treatment space.
(07) 3062 7671 View (07) 3062 7671
Photo of Jayani Nayana Jayatilake - Peaceful Mind Counselling, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Peaceful Mind Counselling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Auchenflower, QLD 4066
Do you want to feel listened and understood? Do you feel overwhelmed, anxious unable to cope or make decisions and feel like nothings working for you? I am an Accredited Psychotherapist / Mental Health Social Worker with over 10 years’ experience. My practice is based on compassion and mindfulness Working form, a trauma informed approach using evidence-based therapeutic interventions that is tailored to your specific needs, I can assist you with gaining insight and learning range of techniques that can guide you to overcome depression, anxiety, trauma (including PTDS), loss and grief, DV and more.
Do you want to feel listened and understood? Do you feel overwhelmed, anxious unable to cope or make decisions and feel like nothings working for you? I am an Accredited Psychotherapist / Mental Health Social Worker with over 10 years’ experience. My practice is based on compassion and mindfulness Working form, a trauma informed approach using evidence-based therapeutic interventions that is tailored to your specific needs, I can assist you with gaining insight and learning range of techniques that can guide you to overcome depression, anxiety, trauma (including PTDS), loss and grief, DV and more.
(07) 3088 9155 View (07) 3088 9155

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Brant Maclean, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Brant Maclean
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Brisbane City, QLD 4000
Brant is particularly interested in borderline personality disorder ( BPD), complex trauma, eating disorders, difficulties forming and maintaining meaningful relationships, life transitions, and low self-esteem.
Brant is a clinical psychology registrar who endeavours to create a gentle, reflective space to help each client improve their well-being by learning deeply about themselves and finding meaning in their experience. He welcomes adults from all backgrounds, gender identities, and sexual orientations. He respects the complexity of life and wishes to create a warm, non-judgemental relationship with his clients that focuses on their goals and fosters long-term change.
Brant is particularly interested in borderline personality disorder ( BPD), complex trauma, eating disorders, difficulties forming and maintaining meaningful relationships, life transitions, and low self-esteem.
Brant is a clinical psychology registrar who endeavours to create a gentle, reflective space to help each client improve their well-being by learning deeply about themselves and finding meaning in their experience. He welcomes adults from all backgrounds, gender identities, and sexual orientations. He respects the complexity of life and wishes to create a warm, non-judgemental relationship with his clients that focuses on their goals and fosters long-term change.
(07) 3184 4296 View (07) 3184 4296
Photo of Sally Walsh, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Sally Walsh
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Brisbane City, QLD 4000
Some latest research and well tested and evidence based models can be incorporated which are useful for BPD and DID, addressing the affects of a lifetime of trauma.
Immediately Available - No Waitlist - Registered Clinical Psychotherapist and Registered Mental Health Practitioner. Are you overwhelmed, anxious or depressed or seeking practical support? Are you struggling with an issue on your own? We can work this out together to help you feel more in control. I can help you see your situation more clearly with talking therapy and somatically integrating body/mind experiences for emotional distress support for anxiety, depression and trauma (CPTSD) ie. brain intervention (7-8 sessions). Relationship struggles ? including narcissism tendencies or sex issues (emotional, physical or sexual).
Some latest research and well tested and evidence based models can be incorporated which are useful for BPD and DID, addressing the affects of a lifetime of trauma.
Immediately Available - No Waitlist - Registered Clinical Psychotherapist and Registered Mental Health Practitioner. Are you overwhelmed, anxious or depressed or seeking practical support? Are you struggling with an issue on your own? We can work this out together to help you feel more in control. I can help you see your situation more clearly with talking therapy and somatically integrating body/mind experiences for emotional distress support for anxiety, depression and trauma (CPTSD) ie. brain intervention (7-8 sessions). Relationship struggles ? including narcissism tendencies or sex issues (emotional, physical or sexual).
(02) 9100 0123 View (02) 9100 0123
Photo of Adriana Cope - Adriana Cope Counselling & Consulting, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adriana Cope Counselling & Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Spring Hill, QLD 4000
I'm experienced in: Complex PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, BPD, DID, Parenting, Relationship Conflict, Gender Variance, Grief, Substance misuse, Sexuality, Intimacy Issues, Life Transitions and developmental disorders (ASD, ADHD).
Hi I'm Adri, I have 25 years expertise in trauma recovery and mental health. Generally, the coping strategies that we lean into serve us in the short term, but over time they stop working for us. I can hold a safe therapeutic space for you in which we can make sense of your world, you can identify behaviours that are no longer serving you, and you can develop healthy, practical and effective coping strategies. As a relational therapist I seek to improve your relationship to self, others and the world; and will tailor my approach to your specific needs.
I'm experienced in: Complex PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, BPD, DID, Parenting, Relationship Conflict, Gender Variance, Grief, Substance misuse, Sexuality, Intimacy Issues, Life Transitions and developmental disorders (ASD, ADHD).
Hi I'm Adri, I have 25 years expertise in trauma recovery and mental health. Generally, the coping strategies that we lean into serve us in the short term, but over time they stop working for us. I can hold a safe therapeutic space for you in which we can make sense of your world, you can identify behaviours that are no longer serving you, and you can develop healthy, practical and effective coping strategies. As a relational therapist I seek to improve your relationship to self, others and the world; and will tailor my approach to your specific needs.
(07) 3113 9214 View (07) 3113 9214
Photo of Maria Piedrabuena - Living Dreams Disability Services, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Living Dreams Disability Services
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
West End, QLD 4101
Maria is a passionate Registered Psychologist who provides a safe and validating environment to children, adolescents and adults with a broad range of presentations including Depression, Anxiety, Personality Disorders including BPD, trauma, PTSD, Autism, ADHD, grief and bereavement, relationship difficulties, parental burnout and low self-esteem. Drawing from personal experience, Maria knows first hand how daunting seeking help can be. Thus, she strives to create a comfortable and welcoming environment to ensure all clients feel at home and can safely begin their journey to better understand themselves.
Maria is a passionate Registered Psychologist who provides a safe and validating environment to children, adolescents and adults with a broad range of presentations including Depression, Anxiety, Personality Disorders including BPD, trauma, PTSD, Autism, ADHD, grief and bereavement, relationship difficulties, parental burnout and low self-esteem. Drawing from personal experience, Maria knows first hand how daunting seeking help can be. Thus, she strives to create a comfortable and welcoming environment to ensure all clients feel at home and can safely begin their journey to better understand themselves.
(03) 7500 5891 View (03) 7500 5891
Photo of Jane Lumley - People Psychology, PsyBA - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Jane Lumley - People Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Brisbane City, QLD 4000
Jane has experience counselling clients and can help you with: Emotional Dysregulation Counselling for Trauma Anxiety Depression Borderline Personality Disorder ( BPD) Divorce Domestic Abuse Domestic Violence Emotional Disturbance Parenting Peer Relationships Self-Esteem Self-Harming Sexual Abuse Sexual Assault Sleep or Insomnia Stress Trauma and PTSD (Post.
Jane is an AHPRA registered psychologist who provides psychological counselling and support for children (12 years or older), teenagers/adolescents and adults. Jane offers a warm, friendly, and respectful client- centred approach. She offers evidenced based treatment that is tailored to each client to assist with a wide range of presenting issues including depression, stress, anxiety, adjustment difficulties, trauma, grief and loss. Jane has experience in: Child Community Health settings Sexual Assault Counselling Psychiatric Inpatient care Counselling for general psychological problems Jane can provide psychologist reports.
Jane has experience counselling clients and can help you with: Emotional Dysregulation Counselling for Trauma Anxiety Depression Borderline Personality Disorder ( BPD) Divorce Domestic Abuse Domestic Violence Emotional Disturbance Parenting Peer Relationships Self-Esteem Self-Harming Sexual Abuse Sexual Assault Sleep or Insomnia Stress Trauma and PTSD (Post.
Jane is an AHPRA registered psychologist who provides psychological counselling and support for children (12 years or older), teenagers/adolescents and adults. Jane offers a warm, friendly, and respectful client- centred approach. She offers evidenced based treatment that is tailored to each client to assist with a wide range of presenting issues including depression, stress, anxiety, adjustment difficulties, trauma, grief and loss. Jane has experience in: Child Community Health settings Sexual Assault Counselling Psychiatric Inpatient care Counselling for general psychological problems Jane can provide psychologist reports.
(03) 7003 2782 View (03) 7003 2782
Photo of Kenneth Love - Kenneth Love - People Psychology, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Kenneth Love - People Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Brisbane City, QLD 4000  (Online Only)
Get help by seeing Ken, who has extensive experience with: Depression Anxiety Disorders Panic Attacks Anger Management Complex trauma including PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) Stress Adjustment Disorders Early Attachment Borderline Personality Disorder ( BPD) Phobias (fear of specific things/situations) Grief and Loss Domestic Violence and Domestic Abuse Sexual Abuse Sexual Assault Psychological Counselling and Support to First Responders Victims of Crime Coping with Pain and Pain Management Meaning and Purpose Life Transitions Somatic Symptom Disorders Dissociative Identity Disorder Mood Disorders
Get help by seeing Ken, who has extensive experience with: Depression Anxiety Disorders Panic Attacks Anger Management Complex trauma including PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) Stress Adjustment Disorders Early Attachment Borderline Personality Disorder ( BPD) Phobias (fear of specific things/situations) Grief and Loss Domestic Violence and Domestic Abuse Sexual Abuse Sexual Assault Psychological Counselling and Support to First Responders Victims of Crime Coping with Pain and Pain Management Meaning and Purpose Life Transitions Somatic Symptom Disorders Dissociative Identity Disorder Mood Disorders
(03) 9133 0996 View (03) 9133 0996
Photo of Una L Window, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Una L Window
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Fairfield, QLD 4103
I want to work along side you to help manage your distress, depression or anxiety due to childhood trauma, disability, parenting issues, PND, BiPolar Affective Disorder, BPD, suicidal thinking or self-harm urges. I understand that often, in order to live a more fulfilling life, certain things may need to be either accepted or changed. It's a collaborative approach. I have a lived experience of a physical disability so know the strengths and challenges this can bring.
I want to work along side you to help manage your distress, depression or anxiety due to childhood trauma, disability, parenting issues, PND, BiPolar Affective Disorder, BPD, suicidal thinking or self-harm urges. I understand that often, in order to live a more fulfilling life, certain things may need to be either accepted or changed. It's a collaborative approach. I have a lived experience of a physical disability so know the strengths and challenges this can bring.
(07) 4243 4713 View (07) 4243 4713
Photo of Ray Elliott - People Psychology, PsyBA - Org. Psych., Psychologist
Ray Elliott - People Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA - Org. Psych.
Verified Verified
Brisbane City, QLD 4000
Ray can help you and has extensive experience with multiple psychological, emotional, and mental health needs, including: Couples Counselling, Court/Psychologist Reports, Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Anger Management, Bereavement, BPD, Communication Skills, and Coping Skills.
Ray is an Organisational and Supervising Psychologist – AHPRA endorsed – with 25 years experience in general psychology practice. He empathetically engages with clients across the life span. His clients include couples, adolescents and families and adults in diverse contexts.
Ray can help you and has extensive experience with multiple psychological, emotional, and mental health needs, including: Couples Counselling, Court/Psychologist Reports, Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Anger Management, Bereavement, BPD, Communication Skills, and Coping Skills.
Ray is an Organisational and Supervising Psychologist – AHPRA endorsed – with 25 years experience in general psychology practice. He empathetically engages with clients across the life span. His clients include couples, adolescents and families and adults in diverse contexts.
(03) 7003 2592 View (03) 7003 2592
Photo of Linda van Leeuwen, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Linda van Leeuwen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Brisbane City, QLD 4000  (Online Only)
You don't always have to see a psychologist for your mental health. As an EMDR Therapist and Accredited Mental Health Social Worker my therapy can be funded by Medicare, NDIS, Victim Assist, Workcover QLD, National Redress Scheme etc. My areas of expertise are depression, anxiety, trauma ( (C)PTSD), acute and chronic stress, grief and loss, infertility, Neurodivergence (ASD, ADHD), emotion regulation problems and parenting issues. I work with all adults on these difficulties regardless of age, gender and cultural background. I also provide support for people who have a diagnosis of Psychosis, Bipolar Disorder, BPD, addictions etc.
You don't always have to see a psychologist for your mental health. As an EMDR Therapist and Accredited Mental Health Social Worker my therapy can be funded by Medicare, NDIS, Victim Assist, Workcover QLD, National Redress Scheme etc. My areas of expertise are depression, anxiety, trauma ( (C)PTSD), acute and chronic stress, grief and loss, infertility, Neurodivergence (ASD, ADHD), emotion regulation problems and parenting issues. I work with all adults on these difficulties regardless of age, gender and cultural background. I also provide support for people who have a diagnosis of Psychosis, Bipolar Disorder, BPD, addictions etc.
(07) 3186 8503 View (07) 3186 8503
Photo of Dr William Kirkpatrick, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Dr William Kirkpatrick
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Brisbane City, QLD 4000  (Online Only)
Ultimately I am human like you with a story and life experiences like you. As a Clinical Psychologist and Counselling Psychologist I can offer you support at this time with: anger, anxiety (general, health, panic, specific phobia, social), attachment, bereavement, complicated grief, CPTSD, depression, impact of cancer, life transitions, low self-esteem, managing emotions, neurodevelopment (ASD, ADHD, FAS), personality disorders ( BPD), PTSD, relationship problems, self-harm, self-identity, stress management, substance abuse (alcohol, illicit, prescribed), suicidal thoughts, trauma (combat, emotional, physical, sexual).
Ultimately I am human like you with a story and life experiences like you. As a Clinical Psychologist and Counselling Psychologist I can offer you support at this time with: anger, anxiety (general, health, panic, specific phobia, social), attachment, bereavement, complicated grief, CPTSD, depression, impact of cancer, life transitions, low self-esteem, managing emotions, neurodevelopment (ASD, ADHD, FAS), personality disorders ( BPD), PTSD, relationship problems, self-harm, self-identity, stress management, substance abuse (alcohol, illicit, prescribed), suicidal thoughts, trauma (combat, emotional, physical, sexual).
(08) 9560 6957 View (08) 9560 6957
Photo of Sophie Hayes, ACA-L1, Counsellor
Sophie Hayes
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brisbane City, QLD 4000  (Online Only)
I believe everyone has the ability to heal themselves with appropriate guidance and support, and all men and women have the power to achieve self-actualisation (realise fully one's potential), via expansion of consciousness.
I believe everyone has the ability to heal themselves with appropriate guidance and support, and all men and women have the power to achieve self-actualisation (realise fully one's potential), via expansion of consciousness.
(03) 9007 0666 View (03) 9007 0666
Photo of Shaun McMahon - Shaun McMahon, ACA-L2, Psychotherapist
Shaun McMahon
Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brisbane City, QLD 4000
Shaun is a warm, caring and calm psychotherapist who works with both individuals and couples. He is passionate about helping his clients to overcome their challenges and to live more fulfilling lives, while offering a compassionate and comforting presence. Shaun works with clients from all walks of life struggling with a range of issues, such as depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and relationship issues. He has a special interest in working with clients who have experienced trauma, including childhood trauma, relationship trauma and sexual trauma, as well as individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder.
Shaun is a warm, caring and calm psychotherapist who works with both individuals and couples. He is passionate about helping his clients to overcome their challenges and to live more fulfilling lives, while offering a compassionate and comforting presence. Shaun works with clients from all walks of life struggling with a range of issues, such as depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and relationship issues. He has a special interest in working with clients who have experienced trauma, including childhood trauma, relationship trauma and sexual trauma, as well as individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder.
(03) 7003 2250 View (03) 7003 2250
Photo of Chelsea Rose Perks - Chelsea Perks Brisbane Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Chelsea Perks Brisbane Psychologist
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Spring Hill, QLD 4000
At times we find ourselves feeling low, worried, anxious and stressed by life, it's many changes, and the relationships we have with others. Perhaps this isn't new, and you find yourself in the same pattern, over and over, fighting the same battles with the same types of people. Or perhaps this is new, and a profoundly disruptive event has occurred and altered your very reality and identity. I hope that we can work together to gain a deepened understanding of who you are, what you've been up against, and find real ways to invoke changes in your life.
At times we find ourselves feeling low, worried, anxious and stressed by life, it's many changes, and the relationships we have with others. Perhaps this isn't new, and you find yourself in the same pattern, over and over, fighting the same battles with the same types of people. Or perhaps this is new, and a profoundly disruptive event has occurred and altered your very reality and identity. I hope that we can work together to gain a deepened understanding of who you are, what you've been up against, and find real ways to invoke changes in your life.
(07) 3132 2848 View (07) 3132 2848

See more therapy options for Auchenflower

Borderline Personality (BPD) Counsellors

What is the most successful approach to treating borderline personality disorder?

Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is considered the gold standard of treatment for borderline personality disorder. An evidence-based treatment, it addresses the extreme emotional reactivity, the relationship difficulties, and the acts of self-harm that create so much distress for BPD patients. DBT is a comprehensive program that includes both regular individual psychotherapy sessions and weekly group sessions of skills training.

What happens in treatment of borderline personality disorder?

Treatment typically consists of weekly individual therapy sessions that last an hour and group skill-focused instructional sessions that may last up to two hours. Patients are typically given homework “assignments” in which they are asked to practice in their daily life the skills they acquire in therapy. Patients also keep a diary tracking their emotions and impulses as a way to know which situations are most problematic and to help them gain control over their own behavior. Difficult situations and feelings are typically reviewed in therapy sessions and more constructive solutions found.

What kinds of problems does BPD treatment help with?

DBT was initially developed to dampen the self-destructive impulses of chronically suicidal patients. It is now the treatment of choice for borderline personality disorder, a serious condition marked by extreme emotional reactivity, relationship instability, and self-injurious behaviors. Treatment of BPD helps patients tolerate the flux of emotions without acting on them, often with a specific focus on tolerating negative emotions. DBT addresses the core problems of BPD—fear of abandonment, low self-esteem, and impulsivity.

What is the goal of treatment in borderline personality disorder?

The goal of treatment for borderline personality disorder (BPD) is to relieve the extreme emotional distress that patients experience—to curb their emotional reactivity, to minimize their inclination to self-harm, and to reduce their impulsivity. Toward these ends, patients are not only taught an array of new coping skills and techniques for emotional regulation, they are given opportunities to practice them. Another major goal of treatment is interpersonal effectiveness; patients learn and problem-solve ways to effectively communicate in relationships, especially how to ask for what they need as a way to minimize hurt feelings.