Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in Phoenix, AZ

Photo of Sarah VanHolland, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah VanHolland
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85032
I work with teens, adults, and families facing anxiety/depression, self-harm/suicidality, relationship instability, trauma, and Borderline Personality Disorder.
I believe that we all seek love, acceptance, and belonging. When experiences lead us to internalize a shame message that we are not enough, we can develop ways of interacting with the world that, though helpful in the past, are no longer working (or may even be harmful). This can bring on issues related to anxiety, depression, shame and low-self-esteem, feeling out of control of your emotions, and conflicts in your relationships. As overwhelming as life can feel, I truly believe finding freedom and healing is possible and consider it a privilege to support you in this process.
I work with teens, adults, and families facing anxiety/depression, self-harm/suicidality, relationship instability, trauma, and Borderline Personality Disorder.
I believe that we all seek love, acceptance, and belonging. When experiences lead us to internalize a shame message that we are not enough, we can develop ways of interacting with the world that, though helpful in the past, are no longer working (or may even be harmful). This can bring on issues related to anxiety, depression, shame and low-self-esteem, feeling out of control of your emotions, and conflicts in your relationships. As overwhelming as life can feel, I truly believe finding freedom and healing is possible and consider it a privilege to support you in this process.
(480) 418-9721 View (480) 418-9721
Photo of Lisa Gentry, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa Gentry
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85001  (Online Only)
I'm passionate about helping others find healing and wholeness. My goal is to help you understand yourself more deeply, find healing from the past, and live a rich and meaningful life. I work with adults struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, and poor self-confidence. I have specialized experience treating trauma and substance abuse, and as a Certified DBT Therapist, I specialize in treating Borderline Personality. I utilize DBT, ACT, attachment, and Cognitive Processing Therapy as my modalities. I believe that one of the most underrated experiences is loss, including the end of significant relationships.
I'm passionate about helping others find healing and wholeness. My goal is to help you understand yourself more deeply, find healing from the past, and live a rich and meaningful life. I work with adults struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, and poor self-confidence. I have specialized experience treating trauma and substance abuse, and as a Certified DBT Therapist, I specialize in treating Borderline Personality. I utilize DBT, ACT, attachment, and Cognitive Processing Therapy as my modalities. I believe that one of the most underrated experiences is loss, including the end of significant relationships.
(520) 376-8376 View (520) 376-8376
Photo of Casey Swenson, MA, LPC-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Casey Swenson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85006
My specialties include trauma, Borderline Personality Disorder, dissociation, thoughts of suicide, self-harm, and anxiety.
Have you been struggling with trauma, emotional pain, thoughts of suicide, self-harm, or lack of support? Or have you experienced grief, loss, or complications in your relationships? Whether these feelings are temporary or lifelong, we do not need to continue with struggling alone. If life has been difficult or unmanageable, we can come together to find balance, understanding, and relief. In addition to therapy services, I offer Clinical Supervision to therapy licensees to guide them on their journey of licensure, providing ethical and compassionate supervision. Sessions offered in person or telehealth, weekends and evenings.
My specialties include trauma, Borderline Personality Disorder, dissociation, thoughts of suicide, self-harm, and anxiety.
Have you been struggling with trauma, emotional pain, thoughts of suicide, self-harm, or lack of support? Or have you experienced grief, loss, or complications in your relationships? Whether these feelings are temporary or lifelong, we do not need to continue with struggling alone. If life has been difficult or unmanageable, we can come together to find balance, understanding, and relief. In addition to therapy services, I offer Clinical Supervision to therapy licensees to guide them on their journey of licensure, providing ethical and compassionate supervision. Sessions offered in person or telehealth, weekends and evenings.
(520) 379-7351 View (520) 379-7351
Photo of Kayleigh Bridget Lynch, LMSW
Kayleigh Bridget Lynch
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016
I have experience working with clients who suffer with anxiety, depression, adhd, borderline personality disorder, vocational stress, life transitions, PTSD, problem sexual behaviors, low self-esteem, and other problem areas.
I believe that each client is the expert in their own lived experience. I am passionate about working to create a welcoming and safe space where you feel safe sharing your journey, challenges, and hopes. I use a relational, strengths-based, trauma informed, and person centered approach in order to treat the whole person and ensure that therapy is personalized, collaborative, and unique to each client with the goal of helping you become the best version of themselves.
I have experience working with clients who suffer with anxiety, depression, adhd, borderline personality disorder, vocational stress, life transitions, PTSD, problem sexual behaviors, low self-esteem, and other problem areas.
I believe that each client is the expert in their own lived experience. I am passionate about working to create a welcoming and safe space where you feel safe sharing your journey, challenges, and hopes. I use a relational, strengths-based, trauma informed, and person centered approach in order to treat the whole person and ensure that therapy is personalized, collaborative, and unique to each client with the goal of helping you become the best version of themselves.
(480) 680-9159 View (480) 680-9159
Photo of Claudette Waite New Point Of View Counseling, MA, LPC, NCC, C-DBT, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Claudette Waite New Point Of View Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, C-DBT, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85048
I specialize in treating trauma, personality disorder BPD, and treating relationship issues with couples.
"Shame cannot survive being spoken and being met with empathy" Brene Brown. My goal is to support your healing, to hold a sacred space that feels safe to you and where you no longer feel alone in your pain. I specialize in helping people with attachment / relationship wounding trauma , family disconnection/dysfunction, divorce, codependency, self-esteem, and relationship problems. If you struggle with fear of abandonment, unstable relationships and self-image I can help. If you struggle with not being good enough, chronic feelings of unworthiness, control, the need to be perfect and comparing yourself to others, then call me.
I specialize in treating trauma, personality disorder BPD, and treating relationship issues with couples.
"Shame cannot survive being spoken and being met with empathy" Brene Brown. My goal is to support your healing, to hold a sacred space that feels safe to you and where you no longer feel alone in your pain. I specialize in helping people with attachment / relationship wounding trauma , family disconnection/dysfunction, divorce, codependency, self-esteem, and relationship problems. If you struggle with fear of abandonment, unstable relationships and self-image I can help. If you struggle with not being good enough, chronic feelings of unworthiness, control, the need to be perfect and comparing yourself to others, then call me.
(602) 783-8831 View (602) 783-8831
Photo of Dr. Dylan Richard, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Dylan Richard
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85048  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in trauma/PTSD, sexuality and sexual concerns, LGBTQIA2S+ issues, ADHD, Alt-Sex and "Alternative" relationships, psychodiagnostic assessment/testing, and personality disorders (such as borderline personality disorder).
At this time I am not taking on new clients and will be suspending all clinical services starting on 7/26/24 due to moving. Once able to resume clinical services, I will update my profile to reflect this. I currently have no estimate of when I will be able to resume services.
I specialize in trauma/PTSD, sexuality and sexual concerns, LGBTQIA2S+ issues, ADHD, Alt-Sex and "Alternative" relationships, psychodiagnostic assessment/testing, and personality disorders (such as borderline personality disorder).
At this time I am not taking on new clients and will be suspending all clinical services starting on 7/26/24 due to moving. Once able to resume clinical services, I will update my profile to reflect this. I currently have no estimate of when I will be able to resume services.
(520) 523-4949 View (520) 523-4949
Photo of Kathryn Davis - More Life Counseling Services, LLC, MS LPC , BHP, Licensed Professional Counselor
More Life Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS LPC , BHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85015
I enjoy working with families struggling with interpersonal relationships, pre and post marital issues, communication difficulties, substance abuse, and trauma. I have experience working with individuals dealing with addictions and recovery, depression, stress, anxiety, bipolar disorder, self esteem, grief, anger management, self harming issues, and borderline personality disorder.
I enjoy working with families struggling with interpersonal relationships, pre and post marital issues, communication difficulties, substance abuse, and trauma. I have experience working with individuals dealing with addictions and recovery, depression, stress, anxiety, bipolar disorder, self esteem, grief, anger management, self harming issues, and borderline personality disorder.
(623) 469-7840 View (623) 469-7840
Photo of Vanessa Vann, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vanessa Vann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85001
Have you found therapy unhelpful in the past? If you are looking for a change and a new approach, I can help. I have more than 20 years of experience helping individuals, couples and families overcome life's hurdles and feel fulfilled. I have a passion for helping individuals overcome PTSD, CPTSD, developmental, religious and other specific trauma. I have experience working with neurodivergent individuals, borderline, narcissistic and anti-social personalities, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, OCD, phobias, eating disorders, addiction, disassociation and chronic pain. I am passionate about LGBTQ+ and gender identity issues.
Have you found therapy unhelpful in the past? If you are looking for a change and a new approach, I can help. I have more than 20 years of experience helping individuals, couples and families overcome life's hurdles and feel fulfilled. I have a passion for helping individuals overcome PTSD, CPTSD, developmental, religious and other specific trauma. I have experience working with neurodivergent individuals, borderline, narcissistic and anti-social personalities, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, OCD, phobias, eating disorders, addiction, disassociation and chronic pain. I am passionate about LGBTQ+ and gender identity issues.
(520) 597-8042 View (520) 597-8042
Photo of Sandrine A Aegerter, MS, LMHC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sandrine A Aegerter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85001  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in helping people struggling with anxiety disorders or recovering from chronic or acute trauma and suffering from PTSD, complex PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder, Dissociative Identity Disorder or Somatoform Disorders (Conversion, Somatization).
My calling is to help people on their journey to healing and wellness. Real healing and growth, I believe, is achieved by addressing the multiple dimensions that make us human beings: caring not only for the body but also the mind and spirit. I work with individuals and couples to resolve issues related to anxiety, depression, relationship issues and life transition issues. I offer secure online counseling services.
I specialize in helping people struggling with anxiety disorders or recovering from chronic or acute trauma and suffering from PTSD, complex PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder, Dissociative Identity Disorder or Somatoform Disorders (Conversion, Somatization).
My calling is to help people on their journey to healing and wellness. Real healing and growth, I believe, is achieved by addressing the multiple dimensions that make us human beings: caring not only for the body but also the mind and spirit. I work with individuals and couples to resolve issues related to anxiety, depression, relationship issues and life transition issues. I offer secure online counseling services.
(480) 571-5429 View (480) 571-5429
Photo of Mary Margaret Kading, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Margaret Kading
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85018
I am educated on neurodiverse diagnoses, including ADHD and autism, and also often work with individuals experiencing complex-PTSD, PTSD, OCD, and BPD.
Hey, I'm glad you're here. I get it, life can be tough sometimes, and it can be even harder to talk about it. I tend to work with individuals like you, struggling to figure out what to do next, and just looking for a way up. Many of my clients are wonderful at knowing what's wrong, but struggle to figure out what to do about it - very aware of their own behaviors, but don't know how to not "do the thing" they didn't want to do - people who truly want to cultivate kindness and authenticity, but struggle to find it in their lives.
I am educated on neurodiverse diagnoses, including ADHD and autism, and also often work with individuals experiencing complex-PTSD, PTSD, OCD, and BPD.
Hey, I'm glad you're here. I get it, life can be tough sometimes, and it can be even harder to talk about it. I tend to work with individuals like you, struggling to figure out what to do next, and just looking for a way up. Many of my clients are wonderful at knowing what's wrong, but struggle to figure out what to do about it - very aware of their own behaviors, but don't know how to not "do the thing" they didn't want to do - people who truly want to cultivate kindness and authenticity, but struggle to find it in their lives.
(480) 506-0895 View (480) 506-0895
Photo of Misty Andersen-Pitcher, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Misty Andersen-Pitcher
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85021  (Online Only)
I work from a holistic approach to life, learning, and healing; everything is connected in some way. Once you identify and master the connections that work for you, then the doing just makes sense, and you move forward with new life practices. My clients heal painful past experiences with current awareness, start trusting & caring for themselves, learn how to identify & break from toxic relationships while developing healthy ones, establish skills & routines to improve follow-through, gain emotion regulation, develop skills for problem-solving/ decision-making, and overcome harmful thoughts and behavior patterns.
I work from a holistic approach to life, learning, and healing; everything is connected in some way. Once you identify and master the connections that work for you, then the doing just makes sense, and you move forward with new life practices. My clients heal painful past experiences with current awareness, start trusting & caring for themselves, learn how to identify & break from toxic relationships while developing healthy ones, establish skills & routines to improve follow-through, gain emotion regulation, develop skills for problem-solving/ decision-making, and overcome harmful thoughts and behavior patterns.
(602) 805-4908 View (602) 805-4908
Photo of Alyson French, MA, LPC, Counselor
Alyson French
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85044
Do you find it difficult to open up and talk about private traumatic experiences? The loss of a loved one, job, friend, home? Natural disaster? Intimate violation? Discrimination? Spiritual and metaphysical changes? Is your ability to work, be with friends, spend time with family, or have close relationships difficult? If yes, I’m here to help!
Do you find it difficult to open up and talk about private traumatic experiences? The loss of a loved one, job, friend, home? Natural disaster? Intimate violation? Discrimination? Spiritual and metaphysical changes? Is your ability to work, be with friends, spend time with family, or have close relationships difficult? If yes, I’m here to help!
(602) 560-4531 View (602) 560-4531
Photo of Courtney A Bassett, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Courtney A Bassett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85044  (Online Only)
Weekday evening and All day Weekend Sessions Available. One size does not fit all, So I use a wide range of treatment modalities to help you find peace and discover your unique life more worth living. Together we can work on self love, reducing maladaptive behavior, addressing past abuse/chronic invalidation and uncover the "you" you seek. We will learn to cope more effectively, reduce worry and let go of the past in effective ways. I enjoy teaming with individuals from all walks of life. I take pride in the work I do, using a non judgmental, empathetic, and respectfully curious approach to get to know your individuality.
Weekday evening and All day Weekend Sessions Available. One size does not fit all, So I use a wide range of treatment modalities to help you find peace and discover your unique life more worth living. Together we can work on self love, reducing maladaptive behavior, addressing past abuse/chronic invalidation and uncover the "you" you seek. We will learn to cope more effectively, reduce worry and let go of the past in effective ways. I enjoy teaming with individuals from all walks of life. I take pride in the work I do, using a non judgmental, empathetic, and respectfully curious approach to get to know your individuality.
(480) 568-3520 View (480) 568-3520
Photo of Diane Genco - AZ Center for Change, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
AZ Center for Change
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85013
Hello and welcome to our practice. We provide a variety of specialty counseling services including Sexual Abuse Recovery, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, LGBTQ services, Anger Management and EMDR. Some, not all of our therapists on staff, take insurance so when you contact us, we will do a short phone screening to assess your needs and financial resources We strive to provide quality counseling while maintaining affordable fees. We have a team of therapists on staff to assist you with your needs.
Hello and welcome to our practice. We provide a variety of specialty counseling services including Sexual Abuse Recovery, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, LGBTQ services, Anger Management and EMDR. Some, not all of our therapists on staff, take insurance so when you contact us, we will do a short phone screening to assess your needs and financial resources We strive to provide quality counseling while maintaining affordable fees. We have a team of therapists on staff to assist you with your needs.
(480) 409-2260 View (480) 409-2260
Photo of Chanda Gonzales - Evolution Recovery and Wellness - Chanda Gonzales, LPC, LISAC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Evolution Recovery and Wellness - Chanda Gonzales
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LISAC, NCC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85032
Not accepting new clients
I am passionate about the opportunity to work with clients to overcome emotional and life challenges and empower them to develop the skills necessary to improve emotional and physical health and live a meaningful, content, and fulfilled life. Addressing the root of most emotional conditions lies most often in resolving traumatic experiences and managing life stressors more effectively. The core issues are addressed by first identifying and acknowledging them, gaining a better understanding of their impact, and then reprogramming the mind and learning coping skills to better navigate life’s challenges.
I am passionate about the opportunity to work with clients to overcome emotional and life challenges and empower them to develop the skills necessary to improve emotional and physical health and live a meaningful, content, and fulfilled life. Addressing the root of most emotional conditions lies most often in resolving traumatic experiences and managing life stressors more effectively. The core issues are addressed by first identifying and acknowledging them, gaining a better understanding of their impact, and then reprogramming the mind and learning coping skills to better navigate life’s challenges.
(480) 428-4034 View (480) 428-4034
Photo of Buffy Wooten - Wooten & Associates, PLC, PhD
Wooten & Associates, PLC
PhD
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85003
Our practice offers a warm retreat where your experience is honored and our expertise helps to integrate your experience into creating a life worth living. Through the principles of DBT, CBT, Spiritual Integration, and Mind-Body Connective work we believe emotional healing is possible. We understand that relationships form the context for reflection, learning and application and hope to connect you with a therapist who makes the connection work for you. With more than 20 years experience working with DBT and persons needing intensive integrative work recovering from past traumas, we offer opportunities for therapists to specialize in this work under close supervision. This allows us to offer sliding scales to our patients and to provide more options for matching with the therapist they need.
Our practice offers a warm retreat where your experience is honored and our expertise helps to integrate your experience into creating a life worth living. Through the principles of DBT, CBT, Spiritual Integration, and Mind-Body Connective work we believe emotional healing is possible. We understand that relationships form the context for reflection, learning and application and hope to connect you with a therapist who makes the connection work for you. With more than 20 years experience working with DBT and persons needing intensive integrative work recovering from past traumas, we offer opportunities for therapists to specialize in this work under close supervision. This allows us to offer sliding scales to our patients and to provide more options for matching with the therapist they need.
(480) 630-8055 View (480) 630-8055
Photo of Valori Roy, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Valori Roy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85028  (Online Only)
Valori grew up as an Air Force Brat and was fortunate enough to live in Europe for ten years. At an early age she was able to learn how to identify with people from different parts of the world in order to adapt and make friends. She was also a scholar athlete and was able to fulfill the demands and endure the pressure of performance. She began her career as a child development specialist working with children with developmental delays and caregivers with mental health diagnoses. After almost 15 years in the field she has worked with all ages and all levels of functioning.
Valori grew up as an Air Force Brat and was fortunate enough to live in Europe for ten years. At an early age she was able to learn how to identify with people from different parts of the world in order to adapt and make friends. She was also a scholar athlete and was able to fulfill the demands and endure the pressure of performance. She began her career as a child development specialist working with children with developmental delays and caregivers with mental health diagnoses. After almost 15 years in the field she has worked with all ages and all levels of functioning.
(623) 462-2706 View (623) 462-2706
Photo of Jamila Zakiya Johnson - SpaTherapy, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
SpaTherapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85042
Not accepting new clients
Hello, my name is Jamila Johnson, MA, LPC, NCC. I am an independently licensed clinical therapist with SpaTherapy. As a cognitive-behavioral therapist, I provide comprehensive counseling, diagnosis and treatment for mood and personality disorders, anxiety and trauma, substance abuse and life coaching, career counseling and life skills for adults. I also work with individuals in need of parenting, domestic violence, anger management, and self-esteem counseling.
Hello, my name is Jamila Johnson, MA, LPC, NCC. I am an independently licensed clinical therapist with SpaTherapy. As a cognitive-behavioral therapist, I provide comprehensive counseling, diagnosis and treatment for mood and personality disorders, anxiety and trauma, substance abuse and life coaching, career counseling and life skills for adults. I also work with individuals in need of parenting, domestic violence, anger management, and self-esteem counseling.
(623) 292-3676 View (623) 292-3676
Photo of Erika Collins-Frazier - Full Circle Behavioral Health Consultants, LLC, EdD, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Full Circle Behavioral Health Consultants, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85041  (Online Only)
Dr. Collins-Frazier is trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Reality Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Trauma Therapy, and Crisis Intervention. She continues to participate in trainings to enhance her knowledge base and skills.
Dr. Collins-Frazier is trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Reality Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Trauma Therapy, and Crisis Intervention. She continues to participate in trainings to enhance her knowledge base and skills.
(623) 254-4864 View (623) 254-4864
Photo of Nicole Heim - Nicole Heim LPC, LPC, Counselor
Nicole Heim LPC
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85048
Every individual has their needs and wants in life. I work with individuals, couples, or families to achieve goals to maintain a more meaningful lifestyle. My strength is an honest approach so that people know that I am being genuine with them and that I amwith them in the moment. I help people to find out what gets in the way of them being effective in everyday life and help them look to a healthier future. I believe that everyone has the power in themselves to change, and that everyone needs help sometimes to keep moving forward.
Every individual has their needs and wants in life. I work with individuals, couples, or families to achieve goals to maintain a more meaningful lifestyle. My strength is an honest approach so that people know that I am being genuine with them and that I amwith them in the moment. I help people to find out what gets in the way of them being effective in everyday life and help them look to a healthier future. I believe that everyone has the power in themselves to change, and that everyone needs help sometimes to keep moving forward.
(480) 428-3806 View (480) 428-3806
1
...
Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists

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.