Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in Caledon, ON

Photo of Marci Gray -Social Worker Psychotherapist, BA, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Marci Gray -Social Worker Psychotherapist
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Caledon, ON L7E
What are you going through? Let’s work together to sort it out, make steps towards recovery, & come to resolution and healing. In a safe and non-judgemental space we focus on your challenges, symptoms and needs. Whether you are seeking individual, couple, or family therapy we can engage in the most appropriate therapeutic solutions for you. I have 20 years experience in the field and have specialized training in treatment for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, OCD, PTSD, & trauma in addition to couples therapy. I’m trained in EMDR, CBT, DBT, EFT etc. I am also the therapist for therapists.
What are you going through? Let’s work together to sort it out, make steps towards recovery, & come to resolution and healing. In a safe and non-judgemental space we focus on your challenges, symptoms and needs. Whether you are seeking individual, couple, or family therapy we can engage in the most appropriate therapeutic solutions for you. I have 20 years experience in the field and have specialized training in treatment for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, OCD, PTSD, & trauma in addition to couples therapy. I’m trained in EMDR, CBT, DBT, EFT etc. I am also the therapist for therapists.
(647) 360-2175 View (647) 360-2175
Photo of Brad Teeter Healing In Headwaters Therapy, MEd, DipPsyc, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Brad Teeter Healing In Headwaters Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, DipPsyc, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Caledon, ON L7K
Sometimes life can be challenging. I am here to help. Psychodynamic Psychotherapy is treatment for the mind in motion. With over 25 years experience, my psychotherapy practice focuses on you and your goals. I welcome being part of your journey as we build our therapeutic relationship together. I invite you into a judgment-free, inclusive, empathetic, confidential therapeutic environment allowing for self-exploration and growth. My approach is multidisciplinary, collaborative and supportive with a Psychodynamic Therapeutic lens based on client needs. Please feel free to contact me to set up a free initial consultation.
Sometimes life can be challenging. I am here to help. Psychodynamic Psychotherapy is treatment for the mind in motion. With over 25 years experience, my psychotherapy practice focuses on you and your goals. I welcome being part of your journey as we build our therapeutic relationship together. I invite you into a judgment-free, inclusive, empathetic, confidential therapeutic environment allowing for self-exploration and growth. My approach is multidisciplinary, collaborative and supportive with a Psychodynamic Therapeutic lens based on client needs. Please feel free to contact me to set up a free initial consultation.
(548) 488-3381 View (548) 488-3381
Photo of Shimone DeNiese, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Shimone DeNiese
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Caledon, ON L7C
Welcome! I am passionate about supporting you on your transformative journey to healing and self-discovery. I am here to assist in creating the positive change you desire, or to be there to hold space for anything you need to let go of or work through. Seeking help can be overwhelming, but I am dedicated to creating a safe and accepting environment for my clients. I value open communication and want you to feel supported throughout your therapeutic journey.
Welcome! I am passionate about supporting you on your transformative journey to healing and self-discovery. I am here to assist in creating the positive change you desire, or to be there to hold space for anything you need to let go of or work through. Seeking help can be overwhelming, but I am dedicated to creating a safe and accepting environment for my clients. I value open communication and want you to feel supported throughout your therapeutic journey.
(289) 778-0397 View (289) 778-0397
Photo of Dr. Cheryl Birch, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Dr. Cheryl Birch
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Caledon, ON L7C
Warm Greetings! I am a Registered Clinical Psychologist serving Orangeville, Caledon, Shelburne, New Tecumseth, Erin, Grand Valley and surrounding communities. My doctorate was completed in 2008, and I have experience in a wide variety of clinical settings. Individual assessment and therapy support is available for adolescents and adults in my clinic. It is my passionate commitment to respect clients' strengths and diverse backgrounds. I truly count it a privilege to walk alongside others in their pursuit of wellness. My approach is caring and non-judgmental. I am dedicated to a scientist-practitioner approach in providing treatments that have proven effectiveness.
Warm Greetings! I am a Registered Clinical Psychologist serving Orangeville, Caledon, Shelburne, New Tecumseth, Erin, Grand Valley and surrounding communities. My doctorate was completed in 2008, and I have experience in a wide variety of clinical settings. Individual assessment and therapy support is available for adolescents and adults in my clinic. It is my passionate commitment to respect clients' strengths and diverse backgrounds. I truly count it a privilege to walk alongside others in their pursuit of wellness. My approach is caring and non-judgmental. I am dedicated to a scientist-practitioner approach in providing treatments that have proven effectiveness.
(844) 629-9636 View (844) 629-9636
Photo of Harrison Mungal Bth. Msw. McC. Ph.d. Psy.d. Rsw., PhD, PsyD, Registered Social Worker
Harrison Mungal Bth. Msw. McC. Ph.d. Psy.d. Rsw.
Registered Social Worker, PhD, PsyD
Verified Verified
Caledon, ON L7E
With dual doctorates in Clinical Psychology and Philosophy in Social Work, as well as master's degrees in Social Work and Counselling, Harrison is a seasoned therapist specializing in mental health, addictions, and family dynamics. Recognized as a leading cognitive therapy workshop presenter, he has spoken globally and authored over 30 books. Harrison employs a science-backed, creative approach to treatment, providing training and consultations to various community partners, including universities, medical professionals, police officers, EMS, firefighters, nurses, SWs, psychotherapists, psychologists, LGBTQ, and the general public.
With dual doctorates in Clinical Psychology and Philosophy in Social Work, as well as master's degrees in Social Work and Counselling, Harrison is a seasoned therapist specializing in mental health, addictions, and family dynamics. Recognized as a leading cognitive therapy workshop presenter, he has spoken globally and authored over 30 books. Harrison employs a science-backed, creative approach to treatment, providing training and consultations to various community partners, including universities, medical professionals, police officers, EMS, firefighters, nurses, SWs, psychotherapists, psychologists, LGBTQ, and the general public.
(844) 382-8975 View (844) 382-8975
Photo of Alessia Petrella, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Alessia Petrella
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Caledon, ON L7C
Partnership is at the heart of my work. I believe through collaboration and compassion, clients have the opportunity to partake in a therapeutic process where they feel safe and empowered to make the changes they are hoping to see. My aim in our work together is to support you in healing, while we work together to develop coping strategies to navigate current and future stressors. I practice from a culturally sensitive perspective, honoring the diversity of my clients and their experiences.
Partnership is at the heart of my work. I believe through collaboration and compassion, clients have the opportunity to partake in a therapeutic process where they feel safe and empowered to make the changes they are hoping to see. My aim in our work together is to support you in healing, while we work together to develop coping strategies to navigate current and future stressors. I practice from a culturally sensitive perspective, honoring the diversity of my clients and their experiences.
(289) 203-0617 View (289) 203-0617
Photo of Deanna DeSantis, BScN, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist
Deanna DeSantis
Registered Psychotherapist, BScN, MACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Caledon, ON L7E  (Online Only)
Do you feel unsure of how to address daily concerns? Does low motivation and anxiety get in the way of reaching your goals? Are you wanting to feel content and accomplished? As a team, we can address your concerns by looking at events and experiences in your life, harness tools to foster emotional regulation, decrease stress and create a unique plan for you.
Do you feel unsure of how to address daily concerns? Does low motivation and anxiety get in the way of reaching your goals? Are you wanting to feel content and accomplished? As a team, we can address your concerns by looking at events and experiences in your life, harness tools to foster emotional regulation, decrease stress and create a unique plan for you.
(289) 207-6730 View (289) 207-6730
Photo of Amanda Bolger - SoulScape Services: Psychotherapy & Wellness Hub, BA, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
SoulScape Services: Psychotherapy & Wellness Hub
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Caledon, ON L7E
Therapy shouldn't feel like a chore. While it might sometimes be hard to hear what is discussed in therapy, overall you should leave feeling like you've gained something useful or even transformative. Over time, you should feel you are getting stronger, more resilient and have shed layers of fear and anxiety. Of course this process can be overwhelming at times and you might not always progress on the timeframe that you thought you would, but when therapy goes well, you should feel more settled and more clear about your life. You should gain understanding about yourself and others and have a renewed sense of purpose and passion
Therapy shouldn't feel like a chore. While it might sometimes be hard to hear what is discussed in therapy, overall you should leave feeling like you've gained something useful or even transformative. Over time, you should feel you are getting stronger, more resilient and have shed layers of fear and anxiety. Of course this process can be overwhelming at times and you might not always progress on the timeframe that you thought you would, but when therapy goes well, you should feel more settled and more clear about your life. You should gain understanding about yourself and others and have a renewed sense of purpose and passion
(289) 276-6014 View (289) 276-6014
Photo of Supriya Verma, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Supriya Verma
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Caledon, ON L7C  (Online Only)
Welcome! I’m Supriya, an intern therapist and Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), committed to offering a person-centred, holistic approach to therapy. If you're dealing with stress, anxiety, or depression, or need support in navigating life transitions and improving relationships, I’m here for you. I offer a caring and supportive space to help you persevere through life’s challenges with confidence.
Welcome! I’m Supriya, an intern therapist and Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), committed to offering a person-centred, holistic approach to therapy. If you're dealing with stress, anxiety, or depression, or need support in navigating life transitions and improving relationships, I’m here for you. I offer a caring and supportive space to help you persevere through life’s challenges with confidence.
(365) 544-4061 View (365) 544-4061
Photo of Holly Robinson, CIMHP, CCTP-II, CGCS, CCFP, CHyp, Registered Psychotherapist
Holly Robinson
Registered Psychotherapist, CIMHP, CCTP-II, CGCS, CCFP, CHyp
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Caledon, ON L7E  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
It is my passion to help individuals liberate their energy from the pain of the past, become more resourceful in the present, and move towards their most fulfilling vision for the future. I specialize in treating adults with trauma, PTSD, C-PTSD, compassion fatigue, stress, burnout, grief, shame, and anxiety. I offer a holistic approach to psychotherapy integrating IFS, SE, EMDR, NLP, TIME, EFT, RTT, HeartMath, Reiki, Hypnotherapy, Spiritual Psychotherapy, and more. I have extensive training in evidence-based and cutting-edge approaches that allow me to create a customized therapeutic experience for you to awaken the healer within.
It is my passion to help individuals liberate their energy from the pain of the past, become more resourceful in the present, and move towards their most fulfilling vision for the future. I specialize in treating adults with trauma, PTSD, C-PTSD, compassion fatigue, stress, burnout, grief, shame, and anxiety. I offer a holistic approach to psychotherapy integrating IFS, SE, EMDR, NLP, TIME, EFT, RTT, HeartMath, Reiki, Hypnotherapy, Spiritual Psychotherapy, and more. I have extensive training in evidence-based and cutting-edge approaches that allow me to create a customized therapeutic experience for you to awaken the healer within.
(289) 206-8704 View (289) 206-8704
Photo of Everdene Francis-McIntosh, RSW MSW, Registered Social Worker
Everdene Francis-McIntosh
Registered Social Worker, RSW MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Caledon, ON L7E  (Online Only)
If you are currently experiencing a difficult time, please prioritize your mental and emotional well-being. Keep in mind that you don't have to face these challenges alone, as there is support available to you. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, addiction, overwhelmed, or facing issues related to gender identity or sexual orientation, or simply feeling like you are not yourself, I am here to help. Or, if you're concerned about the mental and emotional wellness of someone close to you, I can also assist you. Having been through tough times myself, I fully understand how challenging it can be. Please reach out to me!
If you are currently experiencing a difficult time, please prioritize your mental and emotional well-being. Keep in mind that you don't have to face these challenges alone, as there is support available to you. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, addiction, overwhelmed, or facing issues related to gender identity or sexual orientation, or simply feeling like you are not yourself, I am here to help. Or, if you're concerned about the mental and emotional wellness of someone close to you, I can also assist you. Having been through tough times myself, I fully understand how challenging it can be. Please reach out to me!
(289) 217-0368 View (289) 217-0368
Photo of Randy Vinepal - Every Soul Healing Center, PsyD, RP, CHN, CHT, Reiki, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Every Soul Healing Center
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), PsyD, RP, CHN, CHT, Reiki
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Caledon, ON L7C
Every Soul Healing Centre is a space of compassion, inviting you to embark on a journey of self-discovery and deep connection. Immerse yourself in an eclectic blend of therapeutic modalities, from psychotherapy to energy healing sessions that ignite profound shifts within you.
Every Soul Healing Centre is a space of compassion, inviting you to embark on a journey of self-discovery and deep connection. Immerse yourself in an eclectic blend of therapeutic modalities, from psychotherapy to energy healing sessions that ignite profound shifts within you.
(365) 987-4882 View (365) 987-4882
Photo of Cristina Del Principe - Restorative Trauma Practice , MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Restorative Trauma Practice
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Caledon, ON L7C
As a social worker/psychotherapist, I have 14 years of extensive clinical practice supporting individuals who have endured past and present traumatic and hurtful life experiences. I guide individuals out of painful emotions, thoughts, somatic reactions, and behavioural patterns by creatively combining trauma-informed therapies that foster personal growth and transformation. More specifically, I use: EMDR, sensorimotor psychotherapy, a listening/music therapy technique, and other approaches that resource and work with trauma-related experiences/parts of self.
As a social worker/psychotherapist, I have 14 years of extensive clinical practice supporting individuals who have endured past and present traumatic and hurtful life experiences. I guide individuals out of painful emotions, thoughts, somatic reactions, and behavioural patterns by creatively combining trauma-informed therapies that foster personal growth and transformation. More specifically, I use: EMDR, sensorimotor psychotherapy, a listening/music therapy technique, and other approaches that resource and work with trauma-related experiences/parts of self.
(437) 983-3154 View (437) 983-3154
Photo of Meghan Lloyd, MA, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Meghan Lloyd
Registered Social Worker, MA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Caledon, ON L7C
If you are looking for help for yourself or a loved one and don't know where to start I would be happy to guide you through this difficult time. If you know what you want/need then tell me and we will determine if I am a good fit for helping you with that plan! I am a registered social worker and an experienced psychotherapist. I can help clients with their low mood, anxiety, coping and adjustment challenges, & people in dependency (addictions) or mental health crises. I offer a free 15-minute consultation to discuss your needs, answer your questions, and see if I would be a good fit for you.
If you are looking for help for yourself or a loved one and don't know where to start I would be happy to guide you through this difficult time. If you know what you want/need then tell me and we will determine if I am a good fit for helping you with that plan! I am a registered social worker and an experienced psychotherapist. I can help clients with their low mood, anxiety, coping and adjustment challenges, & people in dependency (addictions) or mental health crises. I offer a free 15-minute consultation to discuss your needs, answer your questions, and see if I would be a good fit for you.
(226) 243-6955 View (226) 243-6955
Photo of Breanna (Bree) Bonanno, HBA, MA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Breanna (Bree) Bonanno
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), HBA, MA
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Caledon, ON L7E
Picture our sessions as a safe place where you can be authentic—where we'll work together to uncover your inner strengths and foster personal growth. ​Whether you're navigating complex feelings about sex and sexuality or facing challenges related to ADHD, such as time management, navigating relationships, or battling procrastination, I'm here to offer guidance, empathy, and skills to help YOU facilitate the change. Our time together isn't just about talking—it's about actively shaping a life that feels fulfilling and true to you.
Picture our sessions as a safe place where you can be authentic—where we'll work together to uncover your inner strengths and foster personal growth. ​Whether you're navigating complex feelings about sex and sexuality or facing challenges related to ADHD, such as time management, navigating relationships, or battling procrastination, I'm here to offer guidance, empathy, and skills to help YOU facilitate the change. Our time together isn't just about talking—it's about actively shaping a life that feels fulfilling and true to you.
(365) 305-0351 View (365) 305-0351

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Khatiza Bi, MACP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Khatiza Bi Bi
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brampton, ON L6R  (Online Only)
I specialize in supporting individuals and couples navigating trauma, relationships, addictions, bpd, anxiety and more.
Are your thoughts taking control? Not feeling yourself? Experienced something tough recently that you can't seem to get past? Going through family struggles, relationship conflict or communication breakdown? Or are you looking for help for a child or teen? Sometimes life struggles can become roadblocks that prevent us from working towards our goals and living our best, most fulfilling lives. As a therapist, I want to help you work through those roadblocks. I strive to provide a safe, nonjudgmental, and collaborative space to help you work through struggles, achieve your goals and get back to a fulfilling, meaningful life.
I specialize in supporting individuals and couples navigating trauma, relationships, addictions, bpd, anxiety and more.
Are your thoughts taking control? Not feeling yourself? Experienced something tough recently that you can't seem to get past? Going through family struggles, relationship conflict or communication breakdown? Or are you looking for help for a child or teen? Sometimes life struggles can become roadblocks that prevent us from working towards our goals and living our best, most fulfilling lives. As a therapist, I want to help you work through those roadblocks. I strive to provide a safe, nonjudgmental, and collaborative space to help you work through struggles, achieve your goals and get back to a fulfilling, meaningful life.
(365) 305-0182 View (365) 305-0182
Photo of Matthew Miller, RCSW, MSW, Registered Social Worker
Matthew Miller
Registered Social Worker, RCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Brampton, ON L6P  (Online Only)
Services via video, or phone, Ontario-wide. Areas of support include: couples, communication, parents and teen/child issues, PTSD/ CPTSD, trauma, anger, anxiety, depression, borderline personality (BPD), and OCD. I have extensive experience with Canadian Veterans (Veterans Affairs Canada, VAC approved therapist), Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members, RCMP, and First Responders. I am an ally of LGBTQ+ communities. I also work with non-traditional relationships of ethical non-monogamy (ENM), poly/ open/ swinging dynamics. I am an NIHB: Non-Insured Health Benefits (express-scripts) counsellor for Indigenous / First Nations and Inuit.
Services via video, or phone, Ontario-wide. Areas of support include: couples, communication, parents and teen/child issues, PTSD/ CPTSD, trauma, anger, anxiety, depression, borderline personality (BPD), and OCD. I have extensive experience with Canadian Veterans (Veterans Affairs Canada, VAC approved therapist), Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members, RCMP, and First Responders. I am an ally of LGBTQ+ communities. I also work with non-traditional relationships of ethical non-monogamy (ENM), poly/ open/ swinging dynamics. I am an NIHB: Non-Insured Health Benefits (express-scripts) counsellor for Indigenous / First Nations and Inuit.
(437) 291-8477 View (437) 291-8477
Photo of Marie-Maude Pelletier Sottile, BAPsych,  MA , MACP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Marie-Maude Pelletier Sottile
Registered Psychotherapist, BAPsych, MA , MACP, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bolton, ON L7E
My clinical experience allows me to treat individuals who experience low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship struggles, emotional disturbances, stress, mood disorders, behavioural issues, ADHD, bipolar, borderline disorder, & adjusting to a life change.
Therapy is an opportunity to increase our resilience and to learn how to cope with undesirable life events. Anger, fear, sadness or guilt arise when life experiences are overlooked, neglected, and ununderstood. Anxiety & Depression is a response to the failure to care for the feelings & emotions of the self. Likewise, feelings of stress and inner discomfort need understanding to be changed. The psychotherapy techniques I use to ease client issues and discomfort include CBT, Talking Therapy, DBT skills, Client-Centred, Compassion, Emotional and Solution Focus Therapy, Psychoeducation, frameworks of attachment, and family systems.
My clinical experience allows me to treat individuals who experience low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship struggles, emotional disturbances, stress, mood disorders, behavioural issues, ADHD, bipolar, borderline disorder, & adjusting to a life change.
Therapy is an opportunity to increase our resilience and to learn how to cope with undesirable life events. Anger, fear, sadness or guilt arise when life experiences are overlooked, neglected, and ununderstood. Anxiety & Depression is a response to the failure to care for the feelings & emotions of the self. Likewise, feelings of stress and inner discomfort need understanding to be changed. The psychotherapy techniques I use to ease client issues and discomfort include CBT, Talking Therapy, DBT skills, Client-Centred, Compassion, Emotional and Solution Focus Therapy, Psychoeducation, frameworks of attachment, and family systems.
(647) 905-9212 View (647) 905-9212
Photo of Edward S Davey, RSW, MSW, BSc, Registered Social Worker
Edward S Davey
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, BSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brampton, ON L6P  (Online Only)
My areas of speciality include; depression, anxiety, ADHD, and managing certain personality disorders including (but not limited to) borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, and social anxiety. Other areas of focus include professional and/or workplace struggles/development including (but not limited to); procrastination, motivation, imposter syndrome, and perfectionism. My goal is to work with my clients towards recognizing and understanding exactly what is hindering their personal growth and acting as a barrier against success.
My areas of speciality include; depression, anxiety, ADHD, and managing certain personality disorders including (but not limited to) borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, and social anxiety. Other areas of focus include professional and/or workplace struggles/development including (but not limited to); procrastination, motivation, imposter syndrome, and perfectionism. My goal is to work with my clients towards recognizing and understanding exactly what is hindering their personal growth and acting as a barrier against success.
(548) 485-5914 View (548) 485-5914
Photo of Moonsun Jang, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Moonsun Jang
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4H
You have anxiety, sticky thoughts, or compulsions that you can't resist doing. Perhaps you've experienced a trauma that has deeply impacted your life. Many people describe feeling restless, jumpy, or on edge. You may dread getting up each day. I am passionate about working with people who are living with anxiety, OCD, and trauma. I also have experience supporting individuals with substance use, eating disorders, relationship issues, and borderline personality disorder. Together, we can help you feel lighter at more at ease.
You have anxiety, sticky thoughts, or compulsions that you can't resist doing. Perhaps you've experienced a trauma that has deeply impacted your life. Many people describe feeling restless, jumpy, or on edge. You may dread getting up each day. I am passionate about working with people who are living with anxiety, OCD, and trauma. I also have experience supporting individuals with substance use, eating disorders, relationship issues, and borderline personality disorder. Together, we can help you feel lighter at more at ease.
(289) 401-7615 View (289) 401-7615

See more therapy options for Caledon

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.