Borderline Personality (BPD) Counselling in Abbotsford, VIC

Photo of Sherena Ismail, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Sherena Ismail
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Abbotsford, VIC 3067
Sherena studied at The University of Melbourne. She is an experienced Clinical Psychologist and Board-approved Supervisor. She has worked extensively in the public & private settings with individuals experiencing: •Mood, Anxiety, Trauma & stressor-related & Personality disorders •Acquired brain injuries •Pain management, Relationship, Grief, Cross cultural & Lifestyle adjustment issues. She has special interest in BPD, trauma-focused work, and couple therapy.
Sherena studied at The University of Melbourne. She is an experienced Clinical Psychologist and Board-approved Supervisor. She has worked extensively in the public & private settings with individuals experiencing: •Mood, Anxiety, Trauma & stressor-related & Personality disorders •Acquired brain injuries •Pain management, Relationship, Grief, Cross cultural & Lifestyle adjustment issues. She has special interest in BPD, trauma-focused work, and couple therapy.
(03) 7003 2414 View (03) 7003 2414
Photo of Nikoo Chamani - Wonderful Mind Therapy and Counselling Services, MA, AThR, Psychotherapist
Wonderful Mind Therapy and Counselling Services
Psychotherapist, MA, AThR
Verified Verified
Abbotsford, VIC 3067
Nikoo Chamani, Founder and Clinical Art Therapist. She is specialized in autism (assessment and support) and trauma. She is passionate about what she does and tailors interventions to best support her clients and their needs. in her words: "I have lived both in ease and chaos; and have learnt to explore my thoughts in different environments. In music, ceramic, in painting or in writing, I explore my own layers of self and reform my outer with every self-encounter. I believe we human are simple in our best, but to communicate we are far more complex.
Nikoo Chamani, Founder and Clinical Art Therapist. She is specialized in autism (assessment and support) and trauma. She is passionate about what she does and tailors interventions to best support her clients and their needs. in her words: "I have lived both in ease and chaos; and have learnt to explore my thoughts in different environments. In music, ceramic, in painting or in writing, I explore my own layers of self and reform my outer with every self-encounter. I believe we human are simple in our best, but to communicate we are far more complex.
(03) 8104 9051 View (03) 8104 9051
Photo of Sharon Wells, MA, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sharon Wells
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Abbotsford, VIC 3067
Finding someone who has expertise, but importantly can connect, and quickly understand your issues, is critical. Clients tell me these qualities set me apart from others. My experience includes working with the full spectrum of life challenges, and mental health difficulties: from anxiety & depression, to relationships, ADHD, ASD, & chronic illness. From the young to older folk, parents and families, we create a safe space to explore the tricky places that maybe keeping you stuck, and find an easier path forward. With compassion and curiosity, I enjoy supporting each person to build a greater sense of self worth and confidence.
Finding someone who has expertise, but importantly can connect, and quickly understand your issues, is critical. Clients tell me these qualities set me apart from others. My experience includes working with the full spectrum of life challenges, and mental health difficulties: from anxiety & depression, to relationships, ADHD, ASD, & chronic illness. From the young to older folk, parents and families, we create a safe space to explore the tricky places that maybe keeping you stuck, and find an easier path forward. With compassion and curiosity, I enjoy supporting each person to build a greater sense of self worth and confidence.
(03) 7003 2107 View (03) 7003 2107
Photo of Maria Light, MPsych, MACPA, Psychologist
Maria Light
Psychologist, MPsych, MACPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Abbotsford, VIC 3067
I am a clinical psychologist currently working in private practice. I work with children, adolescents and adults experiencing a range of difficulties including anxiety, trauma, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, social anxiety and personality disorders. My therapeutic approach is informed by attachment theory, family systems theory, emotion focused therapy (EFT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). I have previously worked in school settings and I have also facilitated therapy groups for social anxiety disorder and obsessive compulsive disorder.
I am a clinical psychologist currently working in private practice. I work with children, adolescents and adults experiencing a range of difficulties including anxiety, trauma, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, social anxiety and personality disorders. My therapeutic approach is informed by attachment theory, family systems theory, emotion focused therapy (EFT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). I have previously worked in school settings and I have also facilitated therapy groups for social anxiety disorder and obsessive compulsive disorder.
(02) 4504 0104 View (02) 4504 0104
Photo of Peta de Burgh, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Peta de Burgh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Abbotsford, VIC 3067
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker & Accredited E.M.D.R Practitioner with more than 16 years experience working in the area of Trauma. I have experience working with adults who have suffered from childhood sexual abuse, physical abuse and neglect, as well as those who have been affected by a recent traumatic event. I have a particular interest in trauma and how it impacts on a person's ability to have a harmonious relationships with themselves and others. https://www.breathcounselling.com.au/
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker & Accredited E.M.D.R Practitioner with more than 16 years experience working in the area of Trauma. I have experience working with adults who have suffered from childhood sexual abuse, physical abuse and neglect, as well as those who have been affected by a recent traumatic event. I have a particular interest in trauma and how it impacts on a person's ability to have a harmonious relationships with themselves and others. https://www.breathcounselling.com.au/
(03) 7003 2905 View (03) 7003 2905
Photo of Cristian Mcheileh - Hourglass Psychology, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Hourglass Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Abbotsford, VIC 3067
Appointments Available - book online at hourglasspsychology.com.au/appointments. I work with young people and adults treating anxiety, depression, grief, low self-esteem, adjustment difficulties, relationship issues, self-harming, addictions, stress, amongst other problems. I also have an interest in working with people across diverse sexuality, sex, and gender spectrums. I assist you to find practical solutions to your problems that fit within your lifestyle, values and personal investment, drawing on your strengths to create meaningful long-term change. I also work with your evolving goals, and offer guidance and support.
Appointments Available - book online at hourglasspsychology.com.au/appointments. I work with young people and adults treating anxiety, depression, grief, low self-esteem, adjustment difficulties, relationship issues, self-harming, addictions, stress, amongst other problems. I also have an interest in working with people across diverse sexuality, sex, and gender spectrums. I assist you to find practical solutions to your problems that fit within your lifestyle, values and personal investment, drawing on your strengths to create meaningful long-term change. I also work with your evolving goals, and offer guidance and support.
(03) 7003 2053 View (03) 7003 2053
Photo of Dr Vesna Newman-Morris, PhD, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Dr Vesna Newman-Morris
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Abbotsford, VIC 3067
Dr Vesna Newman-Morris works collaboratively with her clients to tailor treatment specific to their individual needs in helping them achieve and maintain a state of psychological and emotional well-being. She has expertise, both in clinical practice and in research, on the impact of complex trauma on personality function and mental health. This includes: longstanding issues associated with early childhood trauma and abuse, difficulties following a traumatic event, identifying intergenerational risk and protective factors in parent-infant relationships; improving attachment, resilience and well-being.
Dr Vesna Newman-Morris works collaboratively with her clients to tailor treatment specific to their individual needs in helping them achieve and maintain a state of psychological and emotional well-being. She has expertise, both in clinical practice and in research, on the impact of complex trauma on personality function and mental health. This includes: longstanding issues associated with early childhood trauma and abuse, difficulties following a traumatic event, identifying intergenerational risk and protective factors in parent-infant relationships; improving attachment, resilience and well-being.
(03) 8797 5601 View (03) 8797 5601
Photo of Emma Prinzi, MA, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Emma Prinzi
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Abbotsford, VIC 3067
I am a registered psychologist specialising in individual therapy for women facing various mental health challenges. With a particular interest in relational trauma, attachment issues, anxiety and addiction, I tap into clients' inner strengths to facilitate healing. My clients often present with goals to reconnect with themselves, develop skills in attunement, process and heal traumatic experiences, and dismantle unhelpful thoughts, habits and beliefs about themselves and the world. Addressing these processes are targeted to create meaning, enhance self-esteem, and ultimately improve quality of life.
I am a registered psychologist specialising in individual therapy for women facing various mental health challenges. With a particular interest in relational trauma, attachment issues, anxiety and addiction, I tap into clients' inner strengths to facilitate healing. My clients often present with goals to reconnect with themselves, develop skills in attunement, process and heal traumatic experiences, and dismantle unhelpful thoughts, habits and beliefs about themselves and the world. Addressing these processes are targeted to create meaning, enhance self-esteem, and ultimately improve quality of life.
(03) 7003 2342 View (03) 7003 2342
Photo of Leigh Davis Elliott, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Leigh Davis Elliott
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Abbotsford, VIC 3067
I'm a clinical psychologist working with anxiety, depression, stress, emotional / behavioural dysregulation, shame and trauma. As a queer man, I have a passion for working with the LGBTIQA+ community. I work to create a shared understanding of their current patterns of behaviour and experiences from an attachment, trauma-informed, and developmental lens to heal the parts of themselves that get in the way of them living a meaningful life. I work with people to build up the healthy parts of themselves, learn to ask for their needs to be met and to cope with the difficulties that inevitably arise as part of life and relationships.
I'm a clinical psychologist working with anxiety, depression, stress, emotional / behavioural dysregulation, shame and trauma. As a queer man, I have a passion for working with the LGBTIQA+ community. I work to create a shared understanding of their current patterns of behaviour and experiences from an attachment, trauma-informed, and developmental lens to heal the parts of themselves that get in the way of them living a meaningful life. I work with people to build up the healthy parts of themselves, learn to ask for their needs to be met and to cope with the difficulties that inevitably arise as part of life and relationships.
(03) 7003 2812 View (03) 7003 2812
Photo of Zac Teichmann, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Zac Teichmann
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Abbotsford, VIC 3067
Zac is a clinical psychologist who typically works with clients experiencing difficulties with anxiety, mood, managing emotions, coping with stress or dealing with conflict in relationships. He enjoys working with clients to increase understanding of how they got to where they are now, reduce suffering, build skills, develop goals and meaning. Clients often come in crisis, when they have tried everything and struggled for a long time, but continue treatment long after crisis has resolved to work on creating a fuller and better life. Zac enjoys developing a deeper therapeutic relationship and working long-term.
Zac is a clinical psychologist who typically works with clients experiencing difficulties with anxiety, mood, managing emotions, coping with stress or dealing with conflict in relationships. He enjoys working with clients to increase understanding of how they got to where they are now, reduce suffering, build skills, develop goals and meaning. Clients often come in crisis, when they have tried everything and struggled for a long time, but continue treatment long after crisis has resolved to work on creating a fuller and better life. Zac enjoys developing a deeper therapeutic relationship and working long-term.
(03) 7003 2008 View (03) 7003 2008
Photo of Sophia Robinson, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Sophia Robinson
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Abbotsford, VIC 3067
Waitlist for new clients
Sophia is a psychotherapist in private practice who works with individuals and couples. As an Integrative Psychotherapist, Sophia works collaboratively with a relational focus to accommodate the individual needs of her clients. She hopes to create a safe and supportive environment for clients to engage in meaningful personal exploration. Working with an awareness of both mind and body, Sophia believes strongly in our innate capacity to create lasting personal change.
Sophia is a psychotherapist in private practice who works with individuals and couples. As an Integrative Psychotherapist, Sophia works collaboratively with a relational focus to accommodate the individual needs of her clients. She hopes to create a safe and supportive environment for clients to engage in meaningful personal exploration. Working with an awareness of both mind and body, Sophia believes strongly in our innate capacity to create lasting personal change.
(03) 7003 2375 View (03) 7003 2375
Photo of Stephanie Fernandez, PsychD, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Stephanie Fernandez
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Abbotsford, VIC 3067
Dr Stephanie Fernandez adopts a client-cantered, non-judgmental approach, placing clients unique needs and goals at the forefront of therapy. She draws on a range of evidence-based treatment modalities, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness, interpersonal therapy, and schema-informed therapy. By tailoring her approach to suit clients’ individual circumstances, she ensures that they receive personalised and effective care.
Dr Stephanie Fernandez adopts a client-cantered, non-judgmental approach, placing clients unique needs and goals at the forefront of therapy. She draws on a range of evidence-based treatment modalities, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness, interpersonal therapy, and schema-informed therapy. By tailoring her approach to suit clients’ individual circumstances, she ensures that they receive personalised and effective care.
(03) 7003 2189 View (03) 7003 2189
Photo of Simon Vincenzi, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Simon Vincenzi
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Abbotsford, VIC 3067
Dr Simon Vincenzi has been practicing psychology since 2010. He has a wide range of experience working with adults and adolescents with anxiety disorders, depression, OCD, sleep problems, bipolar affective disorder, and anger management.
Dr Simon Vincenzi has been practicing psychology since 2010. He has a wide range of experience working with adults and adolescents with anxiety disorders, depression, OCD, sleep problems, bipolar affective disorder, and anger management.
(03) 7003 2462 View (03) 7003 2462
Photo of Lee Cubis, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Lee Cubis
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Abbotsford, VIC 3067
I am a Clinical Psychologist with over 18 years working in the health and disability sectors (as a support worker, assistant in nursing and Psychologist). I have an interest in working with people from LGBTQIA+ populations including individuals and relationship work. I have a strong understanding of the many ways that intimate relationships are structured. I als work with adults from all populations to manage anxiety disorders using effective and evidence-based interventions. I have a further interest in working with adults with disability including acquired brain injury, intellectual disability, ASD, and neuro-degenerative disease.
I am a Clinical Psychologist with over 18 years working in the health and disability sectors (as a support worker, assistant in nursing and Psychologist). I have an interest in working with people from LGBTQIA+ populations including individuals and relationship work. I have a strong understanding of the many ways that intimate relationships are structured. I als work with adults from all populations to manage anxiety disorders using effective and evidence-based interventions. I have a further interest in working with adults with disability including acquired brain injury, intellectual disability, ASD, and neuro-degenerative disease.
(03) 6316 1110 View (03) 6316 1110
Photo of Nav Wellington (Life Growth Psychology), PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Nav Wellington (Life Growth Psychology)
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Abbotsford, VIC 3067
Nav is a skilled and compassionate clinical psychologist with extensive experience. Nav is also a board-approved supervisor and is available to supervise psychologists, provisional psychologists and clinical registrars in a broad range of therapies. Nav is passionate about working with individual adult clients to promote their well-being, helping them to develop the tools to effectively manage challenges and build meaningful relationships with themselves and others. Nav aims to develop a rich and fulfilling therapeutic space with his clients and has a particular focus on helping his clients to create meaningful change and growth.
Nav is a skilled and compassionate clinical psychologist with extensive experience. Nav is also a board-approved supervisor and is available to supervise psychologists, provisional psychologists and clinical registrars in a broad range of therapies. Nav is passionate about working with individual adult clients to promote their well-being, helping them to develop the tools to effectively manage challenges and build meaningful relationships with themselves and others. Nav aims to develop a rich and fulfilling therapeutic space with his clients and has a particular focus on helping his clients to create meaningful change and growth.
(03) 8797 5134 View (03) 8797 5134
Photo of Savleen Wellington (Life Growth Psychology), MAPS, Psychologist
Savleen Wellington (Life Growth Psychology)
Psychologist, MAPS
Verified Verified
Abbotsford, VIC 3067
Savleen is a clinical psychologist with experience in treating a wide range of mental health conditions. Her practice is guided by genuine care for her clients. She works with individual adults and couples with a wide range of issues. Savleen focuses on engaging her clients to achieve long-term meaningful growth in a compassionate, safe, supportive and culturally sensitive environment. She has a warm and collaborative approach to therapy and encourages her clients to identify their strengths whilst they examine and compassionately reflect on their lives. She is dedicated to supporting her client's in experiencing improved wellbeing.
Savleen is a clinical psychologist with experience in treating a wide range of mental health conditions. Her practice is guided by genuine care for her clients. She works with individual adults and couples with a wide range of issues. Savleen focuses on engaging her clients to achieve long-term meaningful growth in a compassionate, safe, supportive and culturally sensitive environment. She has a warm and collaborative approach to therapy and encourages her clients to identify their strengths whilst they examine and compassionately reflect on their lives. She is dedicated to supporting her client's in experiencing improved wellbeing.
(03) 9068 5037 View (03) 9068 5037

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Cindy Tanghal, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Cindy Tanghal
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Carlton, VIC 3053
In my practice, I provide professional, empathetic and validating psychological support and treatment to individuals with Emotion dysregulation; Major Depression; Bi-Polar Affective Disorders; Adjustment Disorder; Anxiety disorders; Social Anxiety; Eating Disorders; Post Traumatic Stress Disorder; Personality Disorders such as Borderline Personality Disorder ( BPD); Complex trauma presentations such as self-harm, identity disturbance, impulsivity, and relationship instability; Drug & alcohol and other Addictive Behaviours. Additionally, ​I am a Board approved (AHPRA) psychology supervisor.
In my practice, I provide professional, empathetic and validating psychological support and treatment to individuals with Emotion dysregulation; Major Depression; Bi-Polar Affective Disorders; Adjustment Disorder; Anxiety disorders; Social Anxiety; Eating Disorders; Post Traumatic Stress Disorder; Personality Disorders such as Borderline Personality Disorder ( BPD); Complex trauma presentations such as self-harm, identity disturbance, impulsivity, and relationship instability; Drug & alcohol and other Addictive Behaviours. Additionally, ​I am a Board approved (AHPRA) psychology supervisor.
(03) 7003 2463 View (03) 7003 2463
Photo of Joanna Pandelidis Living Free Psychology, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Joanna Pandelidis Living Free Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000  (Online Only)
I work with individuals, couples and families (adults & children over 8yrs), Anxiety, Depression, Relationships, Compensable injuries: workers compensation; TAC; VOCAT and DVA, Pain/Stress management, Eating Disorders, BPD, Trauma, PTSD, OCD, Intercountry Adoption.
HAVE Availability & NOW accepting NEW Clients! "Hi, hi. I am a looking forward to meeting you. After more than 50,000 hours of face-to-face counselling, I still love being a Psychologist" My work has allowed me to meet people from many walks of life as they journey through various stages in their life span. Having worked in areas as diverse as community and ethnic-based services to rehabilitation services to public psychiatry and eventual, private practice, I am humbled and inspired by people’s courage and resourcefulness as they navigate the ebb and flow of life.
I work with individuals, couples and families (adults & children over 8yrs), Anxiety, Depression, Relationships, Compensable injuries: workers compensation; TAC; VOCAT and DVA, Pain/Stress management, Eating Disorders, BPD, Trauma, PTSD, OCD, Intercountry Adoption.
HAVE Availability & NOW accepting NEW Clients! "Hi, hi. I am a looking forward to meeting you. After more than 50,000 hours of face-to-face counselling, I still love being a Psychologist" My work has allowed me to meet people from many walks of life as they journey through various stages in their life span. Having worked in areas as diverse as community and ethnic-based services to rehabilitation services to public psychiatry and eventual, private practice, I am humbled and inspired by people’s courage and resourcefulness as they navigate the ebb and flow of life.
0468 887 908 View 0468 887 908
Photo of Peter Grieve: Living Free Psychology, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Peter Grieve: Living Free Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000  (Online Only)
Adults (18 years and above) and Couples counselling, I love working with Defense and Emergency Services (I am a Defense veteran – 10 yrs RAAF), People with BPD, Complex trauma, Childhood trauma.
NOW accepting NEW clients & HAVE availability! "I love to help people create meaning and purpose in their lives." Often there are obstacles, difficult circumstances or unhelpful beliefs which can obstruct our path toward living an authentic life. My passion is helping others to understand themselves, overcome obstacles and bring meaningful change into their lives, so they can live to their full potential.”
Adults (18 years and above) and Couples counselling, I love working with Defense and Emergency Services (I am a Defense veteran – 10 yrs RAAF), People with BPD, Complex trauma, Childhood trauma.
NOW accepting NEW clients & HAVE availability! "I love to help people create meaning and purpose in their lives." Often there are obstacles, difficult circumstances or unhelpful beliefs which can obstruct our path toward living an authentic life. My passion is helping others to understand themselves, overcome obstacles and bring meaningful change into their lives, so they can live to their full potential.”
0468 887 908 View 0468 887 908
Photo of Sheshia Arellano - Transformative Therapy for Women, PACFA, Counsellor
Transformative Therapy for Women
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Parkville, VIC 3052
BPD, Motivation & purpose.
Transformative Therapy is a special sanctuary for women. This is a safe, trusting, and inclusive space for you to share your concerns, challenges or complex situations in confidence. Past experiences can impact our thoughts, our actions, and all our relationships. It can feel lonely in your world as you try to navigate through the confusion & challenges. As a counselling psychotherapist, I work closely beside you as we explore what it means to be you in your experience. I assist you through deep empathy in accessing your strengths & skills to begin transforming your life into one which is meaningful and fulfilling to you.
BPD, Motivation & purpose.
Transformative Therapy is a special sanctuary for women. This is a safe, trusting, and inclusive space for you to share your concerns, challenges or complex situations in confidence. Past experiences can impact our thoughts, our actions, and all our relationships. It can feel lonely in your world as you try to navigate through the confusion & challenges. As a counselling psychotherapist, I work closely beside you as we explore what it means to be you in your experience. I assist you through deep empathy in accessing your strengths & skills to begin transforming your life into one which is meaningful and fulfilling to you.
(03) 8686 8319 View (03) 8686 8319

See more therapy options for Abbotsford

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.