Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in Lakefield, ON

Photo of Mary Elizabeth Earls - Mary Earls with Advocating Hope , MA,  RSW, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Mary Earls with Advocating Hope
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Lakefield, ON K0L  (Online Only)
IMMEDIATE AVAILABILITY! We at Advocating Hope recognize that you have struggled on your own. We are in awe of your commitment to change. We can offer you an environment in which you can share without feeling judged; an impartial ear to bounce ideas, concerns, and untold events; a practical and wholistic approach to explore your struggles; an environment renewing your own skills or developing new ones; a way to discover the differences between perceptions and facts and how to develop innovative ways to look at an old issue.
IMMEDIATE AVAILABILITY! We at Advocating Hope recognize that you have struggled on your own. We are in awe of your commitment to change. We can offer you an environment in which you can share without feeling judged; an impartial ear to bounce ideas, concerns, and untold events; a practical and wholistic approach to explore your struggles; an environment renewing your own skills or developing new ones; a way to discover the differences between perceptions and facts and how to develop innovative ways to look at an old issue.
(289) 207-0869 View (289) 207-0869
Photo of Kelly Watson - Oak Roots Therapy, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Oak Roots Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakefield, ON K0L  (Online Only)
NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. I want to offer my admiration to you for looking for another option in managing all that is going on in your life right now. I suspect that this was not an easy decision, but it is a decision that speaks about your commitment to yourself and possibly those who are important to you. I would like to offer you a confidential and supportive environment, where you can speak about your struggles without fear of the judgements by family, friends or others who you interact with daily. Together, we can explore new ways of coping, or refresh some skills that have been put aside in the past.
NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. I want to offer my admiration to you for looking for another option in managing all that is going on in your life right now. I suspect that this was not an easy decision, but it is a decision that speaks about your commitment to yourself and possibly those who are important to you. I would like to offer you a confidential and supportive environment, where you can speak about your struggles without fear of the judgements by family, friends or others who you interact with daily. Together, we can explore new ways of coping, or refresh some skills that have been put aside in the past.
(249) 500-4965 View (249) 500-4965
Photo of Agata Wesolowski (Psychotherapy And Professional Consultation), MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Agata Wesolowski (Psychotherapy And Professional Consultation)
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakefield, ON K0L
Waitlist for new clients
I work alongside adults looking for relief from new stressors or long-standing challenges. My specializations include psychological trauma/PTSD and addiction. I also help folks who are experiencing life transitions, abuse, or general mental health concerns. In addition to client work, I offer consultation to mental health professionals to help address their concerns and make reasoned ethical and clinical decisions in their practice.
I work alongside adults looking for relief from new stressors or long-standing challenges. My specializations include psychological trauma/PTSD and addiction. I also help folks who are experiencing life transitions, abuse, or general mental health concerns. In addition to client work, I offer consultation to mental health professionals to help address their concerns and make reasoned ethical and clinical decisions in their practice.
(249) 449-2200 View (249) 449-2200
Photo of Beth Ann Lichti, MACP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Beth Ann Lichti
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lakefield, ON K0L
Not accepting new clients
Do you feel disconnected with yourself or in your relationships? Maybe past experiences have contributed to this. Or you recognize the challenge in our tech-savvy world, to unplug and tune in to yourself and to each other. Our early and ongoing experiences with family, friends, significant other(s), etc impact how we connect and attach; they impact mental health and well-being. We are more likely to thrive when we feel safely and securely connected to another person(s). When our relationships are instead overwhelmed with tension, pain, lack of understanding, etc we often struggle to feel and manage well.
Do you feel disconnected with yourself or in your relationships? Maybe past experiences have contributed to this. Or you recognize the challenge in our tech-savvy world, to unplug and tune in to yourself and to each other. Our early and ongoing experiences with family, friends, significant other(s), etc impact how we connect and attach; they impact mental health and well-being. We are more likely to thrive when we feel safely and securely connected to another person(s). When our relationships are instead overwhelmed with tension, pain, lack of understanding, etc we often struggle to feel and manage well.
(855) 999-6573 View (855) 999-6573

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of The Dot St. Catharines - The Dot Canada, MA, RP, MSW, Registered Psychotherapist
The Dot Canada
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, MSW
Verified Verified
Bancroft, ON K0L  (Online Only)
If you're feeling disconnected, distracted, and detached from your life, it may be time to look at why. Why can't I connect, why am I not able to just "get over" my past, or why does it all feel so meaningless? Maybe there are other questions, like “what am I doing with my life” or “who do I want to be?”. It’s okay to take time that's just for you, to look at your life and see both the big picture and explore the often overlooked details. With the right support, you can feel more present, connected, and in control of your life.
If you're feeling disconnected, distracted, and detached from your life, it may be time to look at why. Why can't I connect, why am I not able to just "get over" my past, or why does it all feel so meaningless? Maybe there are other questions, like “what am I doing with my life” or “who do I want to be?”. It’s okay to take time that's just for you, to look at your life and see both the big picture and explore the often overlooked details. With the right support, you can feel more present, connected, and in control of your life.
(249) 488-1297 View (249) 488-1297
Photo of Tyler Waterman, NP-PHC, CD, MN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tyler Waterman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP-PHC, CD, MN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Norwood, ON K0L
I am a nurse practitioner and psychotherapist with over 15 years experience in mental health. I work with all ages and treat a variety of mental health conditions. I offer individual therapy along with a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation. I utilize a variety of psychotherapeutic modalities and employ an integrative approach with treatment. As a nurse practitioner, I can also provide a diagnosis, order diagnostic/laboratory testing and prescribe medication to manage symptoms.
I am a nurse practitioner and psychotherapist with over 15 years experience in mental health. I work with all ages and treat a variety of mental health conditions. I offer individual therapy along with a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation. I utilize a variety of psychotherapeutic modalities and employ an integrative approach with treatment. As a nurse practitioner, I can also provide a diagnosis, order diagnostic/laboratory testing and prescribe medication to manage symptoms.
(249) 559-0116 View (249) 559-0116
Photo of Shannon Sheehy - Shannon Sheehy RN Psychotherapist , RN, CNP(Q)
Shannon Sheehy RN Psychotherapist
RN, CNP(Q)
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bewdley, ON K0L
As humans we want to know we have a purpose, strengths, love and relationships. When these ideas are shaken up it can be challenging to move forward. Working with me as your Therapist can renew your sense of meeting your own needs. Feeling safe, and supported is a fundamental need and if you aren’t feeling that I can help bring that in to your life. You don’t need to know what help you need to visit me; we can find and explore that together.
As humans we want to know we have a purpose, strengths, love and relationships. When these ideas are shaken up it can be challenging to move forward. Working with me as your Therapist can renew your sense of meeting your own needs. Feeling safe, and supported is a fundamental need and if you aren’t feeling that I can help bring that in to your life. You don’t need to know what help you need to visit me; we can find and explore that together.
(289) 271-3837 View (289) 271-3837

Online Therapists

Photo of Marcus Kupila, MEd, RP, CFRC, Registered Psychotherapist
Marcus Kupila
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP, CFRC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Whitby, ON L1N
Significant experience with first responders, LGBTQ, substance abuse, Borderline Personality Disorder, and suicide/self-harm.
Accepting new clients in person (The Junction, Toronto) and virtual. Trauma & PTSD specialization with First Responders. When most clients come to me they don't know where to start and they haven't been able to overcome their problems alone or with their friend's advice. My clients need someone to listen, someone who knows about the fake face, someone who can help them understand "why"; and help them find a way to get healthy. I have a Masters in Counseling Psychology from OISE UofT the University of Toronto where I learned to use research-supported methods to help clients be empowered. Clients are always the experts on themselves.
Significant experience with first responders, LGBTQ, substance abuse, Borderline Personality Disorder, and suicide/self-harm.
Accepting new clients in person (The Junction, Toronto) and virtual. Trauma & PTSD specialization with First Responders. When most clients come to me they don't know where to start and they haven't been able to overcome their problems alone or with their friend's advice. My clients need someone to listen, someone who knows about the fake face, someone who can help them understand "why"; and help them find a way to get healthy. I have a Masters in Counseling Psychology from OISE UofT the University of Toronto where I learned to use research-supported methods to help clients be empowered. Clients are always the experts on themselves.
(647) 696-6437 View (647) 696-6437
Photo of Kevin Hamdullahpur - Centre For Psychology And Emotional Health, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kevin Hamdullahpur - Centre For Psychology And Emotional Health
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5H
I have experience assessing and treating individuals with a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, and borderline personality disorder.
I hold a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of Toronto. I am currently completing my Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at the University of Toronto where my research examines relationships between personality, substance use, and emotion regulation. I have worked in a wide range of clinical settings including the Work, Stress, and Health and Integrated Day Treatment Programs at the Centre for Addictions and Mental Health, the Health and Wellness Centre at the University of Toronto, and the Centre for Student Development and Counselling at Toronto Metropolitan University.
I have experience assessing and treating individuals with a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, and borderline personality disorder.
I hold a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of Toronto. I am currently completing my Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at the University of Toronto where my research examines relationships between personality, substance use, and emotion regulation. I have worked in a wide range of clinical settings including the Work, Stress, and Health and Integrated Day Treatment Programs at the Centre for Addictions and Mental Health, the Health and Wellness Centre at the University of Toronto, and the Centre for Student Development and Counselling at Toronto Metropolitan University.
(289) 272-8058 View (289) 272-8058
Photo of Adriana King Aurora Therapy Neurofeedback, MA, CTIC, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Adriana King Aurora Therapy Neurofeedback
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, CTIC, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Aurora, ON L4G
I am a passionate therapist dedicated working with clients who have experienced childhood-developmental trauma, relational trauma, intimate partner abuse, bullying, or PTSD. Clients that experience traumatic events tend to struggle with on-going anxiety and depression, relationship issues, become labelled as bipolar and experience borderline personality disorder. Do you struggle with eating disorders, addictions, self-harming behaviours & suicided ideation? Have you tried talk-therapy but achieved suboptimal results, and are looking for alternative treatment to avoid relying on medication alone? Let's explore clinical Neurofeedback!
I am a passionate therapist dedicated working with clients who have experienced childhood-developmental trauma, relational trauma, intimate partner abuse, bullying, or PTSD. Clients that experience traumatic events tend to struggle with on-going anxiety and depression, relationship issues, become labelled as bipolar and experience borderline personality disorder. Do you struggle with eating disorders, addictions, self-harming behaviours & suicided ideation? Have you tried talk-therapy but achieved suboptimal results, and are looking for alternative treatment to avoid relying on medication alone? Let's explore clinical Neurofeedback!
(289) 236-0191 View (289) 236-0191
Photo of Erika Equizi, MEd, BA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Erika Equizi
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MEd, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bradford, ON L3Z
I have specialized experience working with clients who have been diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder and PTSD.
I understand that at the center of effective therapy is a strong client/therapist relationship. My approach to working with clients is collaborative, client-centered, and empathic. Recognizing that reaching out for support takes strength and courage, my aim is to create a safe, supportive, and accepting environment to explore, process, make meaning of, and cope with each client's individual challenges. I have training and experience working with teenagers, adults and couples as well as experience working in a hospital setting addressing a wide range of stressors including depression, anxiety, disordered eating, addictions, trauma.
I have specialized experience working with clients who have been diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder and PTSD.
I understand that at the center of effective therapy is a strong client/therapist relationship. My approach to working with clients is collaborative, client-centered, and empathic. Recognizing that reaching out for support takes strength and courage, my aim is to create a safe, supportive, and accepting environment to explore, process, make meaning of, and cope with each client's individual challenges. I have training and experience working with teenagers, adults and couples as well as experience working in a hospital setting addressing a wide range of stressors including depression, anxiety, disordered eating, addictions, trauma.
(289) 210-8811 View (289) 210-8811
Photo of Shannon Robinson And Associates, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Shannon Robinson And Associates
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L4K  (Online Only)
We have extensive experience treating BPD, emotional dysregulation & complex trauma.
We are a group of registered mental health professionals including a psychologist, social worker, and psychotherapist. Our priority is to provide clients with a safe and confidential space to better understand themselves and work through challenges. We offer evidence-based treatments including Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness and Compassion based therapies, Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) & Prolonged Exposure (PE).
We have extensive experience treating BPD, emotional dysregulation & complex trauma.
We are a group of registered mental health professionals including a psychologist, social worker, and psychotherapist. Our priority is to provide clients with a safe and confidential space to better understand themselves and work through challenges. We offer evidence-based treatments including Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness and Compassion based therapies, Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) & Prolonged Exposure (PE).
(647) 931-5010 View (647) 931-5010
Photo of Erin Orsztynova - Erin Orsztynova, RP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Erin Orsztynova, RP
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
Picton, ON K0K
Waitlist for new clients
I work predominantly with individuals who suffer from the effects of abuse and trauma, especially in childhood, and are ready to take steps on their therapeutic journey. I work with those who suffer from anxiety, low self-esteem, lack of sense of self, complex trauma, eating disorders, chronic relationship issues, sexual abuse and trauma, adult children of alcoholics, and BPD.
I work predominantly with individuals who suffer from the effects of abuse and trauma, especially in childhood, and are ready to take steps on their therapeutic journey. I work with those who suffer from anxiety, low self-esteem, lack of sense of self, complex trauma, eating disorders, chronic relationship issues, sexual abuse and trauma, adult children of alcoholics, and BPD.
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Photo of Viviane Silva, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Viviane Silva
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntsville, ON P1H  (Online Only)
For the past 12 years Viviane has helped her clients to create a purposeful and meaningful life by identifying and changing maladaptive behaviors, self-defeating thinking patterns and ineffective emotional responses that prevent people from living the life they aspire and deserve. Viviane works collaboratively with clients to address issues such as depression, anxiety, substance abuse, lack of self-esteem and self-confidence, problem gambling, borderline personality disorder, relationship challenges, life transitions, stress and burn out.
For the past 12 years Viviane has helped her clients to create a purposeful and meaningful life by identifying and changing maladaptive behaviors, self-defeating thinking patterns and ineffective emotional responses that prevent people from living the life they aspire and deserve. Viviane works collaboratively with clients to address issues such as depression, anxiety, substance abuse, lack of self-esteem and self-confidence, problem gambling, borderline personality disorder, relationship challenges, life transitions, stress and burn out.
(437) 800-2035 View (437) 800-2035
Photo of Maram Khalif, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Maram Khalif
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
Scarborough, ON M1L  (Online Only)
I work with couples, individuals, lgbtq2s+, neuro-diversity, and transgender/non-binary individuals as well as having/had diagnosis of schizophrenia, bipolar, BPD & NPD.
If you're navigating relationship challenges, exploring self-identity including gender and sexuality, or facing societal limitations, I'm here to support you. My approach is warm, empathetic, and accepting, creating a safe space for you to dream, grow, and heal. Together, we'll address trauma, past injustices, and explore themes of personal power and healthy assertiveness in your life and relationships. Let's collaborate to embrace your full potential.
I work with couples, individuals, lgbtq2s+, neuro-diversity, and transgender/non-binary individuals as well as having/had diagnosis of schizophrenia, bipolar, BPD & NPD.
If you're navigating relationship challenges, exploring self-identity including gender and sexuality, or facing societal limitations, I'm here to support you. My approach is warm, empathetic, and accepting, creating a safe space for you to dream, grow, and heal. Together, we'll address trauma, past injustices, and explore themes of personal power and healthy assertiveness in your life and relationships. Let's collaborate to embrace your full potential.
(647) 691-4344 View (647) 691-4344
Photo of Laryssa Levesque - Inner Growth Counselling & Psychotherapy, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Inner Growth Counselling & Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4N
NO-WAIT lists, LOW-COST options, IN-PERSON appts- Perhaps you're feeling down or anxious, or maybe you're unsure about the future of a relationship, or just feel that you aren't living the life you want to lead. Let's face it- life can be hard and sometimes we feel like things will never change or that we are stuck. At Inner Growth Counselling & Psychotherapy, we will help you overcome whatever mental health or personal challenges you are faced with. Our team specializes in treating ADHD, anxiety, stress, depression, self-esteem and self-identity, relationship issues, life transitions, BPD, managing difficult emotions, and trauma.
NO-WAIT lists, LOW-COST options, IN-PERSON appts- Perhaps you're feeling down or anxious, or maybe you're unsure about the future of a relationship, or just feel that you aren't living the life you want to lead. Let's face it- life can be hard and sometimes we feel like things will never change or that we are stuck. At Inner Growth Counselling & Psychotherapy, we will help you overcome whatever mental health or personal challenges you are faced with. Our team specializes in treating ADHD, anxiety, stress, depression, self-esteem and self-identity, relationship issues, life transitions, BPD, managing difficult emotions, and trauma.
(249) 496-6844 View (249) 496-6844
Photo of Camille Alizadeh, MPsy, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Camille Alizadeh
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MPsy
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4T
Supporting people who struggle with Borderline Personality Disorder, emotional dysregulation, and relational trauma is my passion.
Do you struggle with intense emotions that impact your relationships? Do you feel exhausted keeping it together through the day? Does it feel as if life will always be this way? Now more than ever, people are feeling disconnected from their selves and their relationships. I believe that there is another way to live. At Lived Collective, I offer therapeutic support for individuals and their loved ones with challenges related to Borderline Personality Disorder, emotional dysregulation, trauma, and suicidal ideation.
Supporting people who struggle with Borderline Personality Disorder, emotional dysregulation, and relational trauma is my passion.
Do you struggle with intense emotions that impact your relationships? Do you feel exhausted keeping it together through the day? Does it feel as if life will always be this way? Now more than ever, people are feeling disconnected from their selves and their relationships. I believe that there is another way to live. At Lived Collective, I offer therapeutic support for individuals and their loved ones with challenges related to Borderline Personality Disorder, emotional dysregulation, trauma, and suicidal ideation.
(647) 471-3525 View (647) 471-3525
Photo of Alyssa Tanz, MSW , RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alyssa Tanz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6G
I have experience working with a variety of mental health diagnoses including but not limited to anxiety, depression, PTSD, BPD and stress.
Do you spend your day feeling hijacked by your emotions, immobilized by fear, or paralyzed by shame? Do you find yourself stuck in problematic patterns of behaviour or relationships? Perhaps, you start to believe there must be something wrong with you. Maybe, you’ve been stuck in this cycle for so long a life without pain, fear, and judgement becomes unimaginable. You don’t deserve to feel this way and you don’t have to navigate this alone. I can help you get to a place where the pain, fear and judgment are no longer calling the shots in your life.
I have experience working with a variety of mental health diagnoses including but not limited to anxiety, depression, PTSD, BPD and stress.
Do you spend your day feeling hijacked by your emotions, immobilized by fear, or paralyzed by shame? Do you find yourself stuck in problematic patterns of behaviour or relationships? Perhaps, you start to believe there must be something wrong with you. Maybe, you’ve been stuck in this cycle for so long a life without pain, fear, and judgement becomes unimaginable. You don’t deserve to feel this way and you don’t have to navigate this alone. I can help you get to a place where the pain, fear and judgment are no longer calling the shots in your life.
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Photo of Fatima Tahir, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Fatima Tahir
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Whitby, ON L1N  (Online Only)
Are you or your teenager struggling with anxiety, depression, or borderline personality disorder? Have you been drinking or abusing drugs in an effort to self-medicate? Do you need help managing stress, chronic pain, or the effects of trauma? You can identify the emotions that are holding you back and learn to cope successfully. If you need help recovering from difficult childhood experiences, sexual abuse, or other forms of trauma, contact me to get the help that you or your child need. Together, we will work on building your strengths, gaining insights, and building the coping skills that help you build a better life.
Are you or your teenager struggling with anxiety, depression, or borderline personality disorder? Have you been drinking or abusing drugs in an effort to self-medicate? Do you need help managing stress, chronic pain, or the effects of trauma? You can identify the emotions that are holding you back and learn to cope successfully. If you need help recovering from difficult childhood experiences, sexual abuse, or other forms of trauma, contact me to get the help that you or your child need. Together, we will work on building your strengths, gaining insights, and building the coping skills that help you build a better life.
(365) 655-0851 x3 View (365) 655-0851 x3
Photo of Rachelle Watson - Ontario Psychotherapy: Trauma and Grief Therapist, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Ontario Psychotherapy: Trauma and Grief Therapist
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Markham, ON L6B  (Online Only)
My areas of practice include emotion dysregulation ( BPD and bipolar disorder), depression and anxiety, and grief and loss.
Are you perpetually in fight or flight or shut down mode? Do your emotions feel out of control? Easily triggered? I'm Rachelle and I’m the face behind OPS, an online therapy practice. I specialize in nervous system stabilization. I work with those who have experienced trauma to process its emotional and the physical effects. My practice incorporates a focus on the mind-body connection, which most clients say was the missing piece in previous therapy. The body goes through just as much as the mind; effective therapy involves paying close attention to the body and developing nervous system resiliency.
My areas of practice include emotion dysregulation ( BPD and bipolar disorder), depression and anxiety, and grief and loss.
Are you perpetually in fight or flight or shut down mode? Do your emotions feel out of control? Easily triggered? I'm Rachelle and I’m the face behind OPS, an online therapy practice. I specialize in nervous system stabilization. I work with those who have experienced trauma to process its emotional and the physical effects. My practice incorporates a focus on the mind-body connection, which most clients say was the missing piece in previous therapy. The body goes through just as much as the mind; effective therapy involves paying close attention to the body and developing nervous system resiliency.
(289) 806-5137 View (289) 806-5137

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Nearby Borderline Personality (BPD) Counsellors Searches for Lakefield

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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.