Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in California

Photo of Dr. Kelly A Williams, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Kelly A Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
Welcome! I want you to know that engaging in counseling is not an admission of failure. On the contrary, it is a bold statement of growth and strength. I specialize in Borderline Personality Disorder, Couples and Marital Counseling, and Trauma. Most of my clients find me easy to talk to and appreciate my practical and relational approach to treatment. Call for a free consultation - ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. I accept Private Payors, Cigna, Blue Shield of California, Magellan, United Healthcare, and Optum Health Insurance.
Welcome! I want you to know that engaging in counseling is not an admission of failure. On the contrary, it is a bold statement of growth and strength. I specialize in Borderline Personality Disorder, Couples and Marital Counseling, and Trauma. Most of my clients find me easy to talk to and appreciate my practical and relational approach to treatment. Call for a free consultation - ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. I accept Private Payors, Cigna, Blue Shield of California, Magellan, United Healthcare, and Optum Health Insurance.
(818) 287-0456 View (818) 287-0456
Photo of Laurie Boxer, PhD, Psychologist
Laurie Boxer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91436
Boxer has received intensive training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for the treatment of emotion and behavioral dysregulation typically, but not exclusively, associated with Borderline Personality Disorder.
Dr. Laurie Boxer is a licensed psychologist in private practice as well as clinical director of an outpatient treatment program at a medical center. A graduate of UCLA and Syracuse University, with over 20 years of clinical practice, Dr. Boxer has expertise in treating a broad range of psychological conditions and interpersonal problems. Dr. Boxer has advanced professional training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Treatment, Marital Therapy. Dr. Boxer employs empirically based approaches to the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder, and other anxiety disorders, mood disorders, emotion regulation problems, and relationship issues.
Boxer has received intensive training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for the treatment of emotion and behavioral dysregulation typically, but not exclusively, associated with Borderline Personality Disorder.
Dr. Laurie Boxer is a licensed psychologist in private practice as well as clinical director of an outpatient treatment program at a medical center. A graduate of UCLA and Syracuse University, with over 20 years of clinical practice, Dr. Boxer has expertise in treating a broad range of psychological conditions and interpersonal problems. Dr. Boxer has advanced professional training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Treatment, Marital Therapy. Dr. Boxer employs empirically based approaches to the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder, and other anxiety disorders, mood disorders, emotion regulation problems, and relationship issues.
(818) 660-0024 View (818) 660-0024
Photo of Colleen Auth, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Colleen Auth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in the treatment of adults and older adults suffering from depression, bipolar, generalized anxiety, social anxiety, PTSD, OCD, and various personality disorders including Borderline personality disorder. I have experience in working with many of life's problems such as grief and loss, conflict resolution, and anger management. I work with each patient to understand his or her symptoms and the problems that impact their mood, and then create a holistic approach to develop a unique treatment plan that is tailored to address the individuals needs.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in the treatment of adults and older adults suffering from depression, bipolar, generalized anxiety, social anxiety, PTSD, OCD, and various personality disorders including Borderline personality disorder. I have experience in working with many of life's problems such as grief and loss, conflict resolution, and anger management. I work with each patient to understand his or her symptoms and the problems that impact their mood, and then create a holistic approach to develop a unique treatment plan that is tailored to address the individuals needs.
(619) 452-1009 View (619) 452-1009
Photo of Elle Michel, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elle Michel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90064
Additionally, I have in-depth training and experience helping people recover from sexual abuse, neglect, substance abuse, suicidality, self-harm, borderline personality disorder, anxiety, and depression.
Do you struggle with trauma, relationships, and anxiety, or worry that you might be beyond help? Give me a call--I've been there and, through my own healing, as well as extensive training and experience, I'm uniquely fit to help others. I specialize in healing complex trauma, compulsive disorders, and borderline personality disorder, using EMDR, DBT, and Brainspotting to achieve tangible results quickly. My clients often tell me that no other therapist has helped them in the way that I have, and that they finally have the tools they need to let go of trauma and thrive.
Additionally, I have in-depth training and experience helping people recover from sexual abuse, neglect, substance abuse, suicidality, self-harm, borderline personality disorder, anxiety, and depression.
Do you struggle with trauma, relationships, and anxiety, or worry that you might be beyond help? Give me a call--I've been there and, through my own healing, as well as extensive training and experience, I'm uniquely fit to help others. I specialize in healing complex trauma, compulsive disorders, and borderline personality disorder, using EMDR, DBT, and Brainspotting to achieve tangible results quickly. My clients often tell me that no other therapist has helped them in the way that I have, and that they finally have the tools they need to let go of trauma and thrive.
(310) 340-1746 View (310) 340-1746
Photo of Jenny Pepper, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jenny Pepper
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Working with a therapist who you feel safe with and connected to will make all the difference in your healing journey. I am a warm therapist, who will also be directive for the sake of your growth. I am sincerely dedicated to your healing journey. And, I can teach you practical tools to live a balanced and more fulfilling life. I would love to guide you towards better understanding yourself. I am highly trained in CBT, DBT and ACT. My approach is integrative, adapting to fit each person’s unique needs. I’ve worked extensively and closely with people struggling with anxiety, BPD, addiction, depression, and low self-worth.
Working with a therapist who you feel safe with and connected to will make all the difference in your healing journey. I am a warm therapist, who will also be directive for the sake of your growth. I am sincerely dedicated to your healing journey. And, I can teach you practical tools to live a balanced and more fulfilling life. I would love to guide you towards better understanding yourself. I am highly trained in CBT, DBT and ACT. My approach is integrative, adapting to fit each person’s unique needs. I’ve worked extensively and closely with people struggling with anxiety, BPD, addiction, depression, and low self-worth.
(310) 359-1863 View (310) 359-1863
Photo of Lane McConnell, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lane McConnell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94709  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, borderline personality, sexuality issues or addiction? These are some of the areas I specialize in. I believe therapy can help you find the solutions you need to move forward to have a happier life. Have you struggled to find an effective type of therapy that works for you? I tailor my therapy approach to you based on what has and has not worked for you in the past. Together we will set therapy goals to help you remove present barriers, suffering and emotional pain so you can live your life to your upmost potential. Additional information: www.lanemcconnelltherapy.com
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, borderline personality, sexuality issues or addiction? These are some of the areas I specialize in. I believe therapy can help you find the solutions you need to move forward to have a happier life. Have you struggled to find an effective type of therapy that works for you? I tailor my therapy approach to you based on what has and has not worked for you in the past. Together we will set therapy goals to help you remove present barriers, suffering and emotional pain so you can live your life to your upmost potential. Additional information: www.lanemcconnelltherapy.com
(628) 265-6736 View (628) 265-6736
Photo of Hilary Mountford-Paty, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Hilary Mountford-Paty
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
With extensive experience in Borderline Personality Disorder ( BPD), I approach it with care and respect for each unique journey.
Feeling overwhelmed by a specific challenge or aiming to enhance your life and relationships? As your therapist, I aim to help you identify concerns and guide you toward positive transformations efficiently. My office is a sanctuary—a secure, inviting space where we embark on a journey of self-discovery and growth together. Through collaboration, we navigate obstacles and uncover tools for your thriving. I use diverse modalities, tailoring therapy to your needs.
With extensive experience in Borderline Personality Disorder ( BPD), I approach it with care and respect for each unique journey.
Feeling overwhelmed by a specific challenge or aiming to enhance your life and relationships? As your therapist, I aim to help you identify concerns and guide you toward positive transformations efficiently. My office is a sanctuary—a secure, inviting space where we embark on a journey of self-discovery and growth together. Through collaboration, we navigate obstacles and uncover tools for your thriving. I use diverse modalities, tailoring therapy to your needs.
(805) 856-6232 View (805) 856-6232
Photo of Czarina Pinsky, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Czarina Pinsky
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Placentia, CA 92870
Do you often face challenges with emotion regulation, feelings of isolation, struggle with self-acceptance, family or relationship problems, and trauma? Overcoming the challenges of struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, family systems, or borderline personality disorder can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship, deconstructing the POC narrative surrounding therapy, authenticity, compassion, and the use of gentle challenges to help you work towards overcoming life's challenges through individualized and creative approaches.
Do you often face challenges with emotion regulation, feelings of isolation, struggle with self-acceptance, family or relationship problems, and trauma? Overcoming the challenges of struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, family systems, or borderline personality disorder can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship, deconstructing the POC narrative surrounding therapy, authenticity, compassion, and the use of gentle challenges to help you work towards overcoming life's challenges through individualized and creative approaches.
(949) 749-6883 View (949) 749-6883
Photo of Alyson DiRocco Fisher, PsyD, Psychologist
Alyson DiRocco Fisher
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90064
I specialize in treating bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, depression, and anxiety.
Connecting with the right therapist can be challenging. As a clinician, I strive to empower clients to make meaningful changes, while also helping them hold self-compassion in the process. I ground my work in evidence-based therapies, and use an in-depth case conceptualization to understand how problems are getting in the way of the life my clients want to lead.
I specialize in treating bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, depression, and anxiety.
Connecting with the right therapist can be challenging. As a clinician, I strive to empower clients to make meaningful changes, while also helping them hold self-compassion in the process. I ground my work in evidence-based therapies, and use an in-depth case conceptualization to understand how problems are getting in the way of the life my clients want to lead.
(310) 564-0785 View (310) 564-0785
Photo of Patrick Yamamoto - Prestige Therapy, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Prestige Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95811
Welcome to P R E S T I G E Therapy. We are a team of therapists who specialize in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, focusing on those who have borderline personality traits. We often work with individuals who experience intense emotions, suicidal ideation, self-harming behaviors, high conflict relationships, and other high risk behaviors. We also work with symptoms such as depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. We also work with families, couples, teens, and young adults.
Welcome to P R E S T I G E Therapy. We are a team of therapists who specialize in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, focusing on those who have borderline personality traits. We often work with individuals who experience intense emotions, suicidal ideation, self-harming behaviors, high conflict relationships, and other high risk behaviors. We also work with symptoms such as depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. We also work with families, couples, teens, and young adults.
(916) 619-2254 View (916) 619-2254
Photo of Hugh D Leonard, PhD, Psychologist
Hugh D Leonard
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660  (Online Only)
In addition to specializing in treating BPD, Trauma, and Anxiety, I also have expertise in treating a wide range of conditions in adults and adolescents.
I am the founder of Clear Path CBT (www.clearpathcbt.com) and am a certified CBT therapist through the Academy of Cognitive & Behavioral Therapies. I specialize in treating Borderline Personality Disorder ( BPD), Trauma, and Anxiety disorders. I approach therapy with a mindful presence, a nonjudgmental and compassionate stance, and an unwavering commitment to help you work toward your goals. I only use the most scientifically advanced psychotherapies as they are the most efficient way to reduce suffering and achieve your goals.
In addition to specializing in treating BPD, Trauma, and Anxiety, I also have expertise in treating a wide range of conditions in adults and adolescents.
I am the founder of Clear Path CBT (www.clearpathcbt.com) and am a certified CBT therapist through the Academy of Cognitive & Behavioral Therapies. I specialize in treating Borderline Personality Disorder ( BPD), Trauma, and Anxiety disorders. I approach therapy with a mindful presence, a nonjudgmental and compassionate stance, and an unwavering commitment to help you work toward your goals. I only use the most scientifically advanced psychotherapies as they are the most efficient way to reduce suffering and achieve your goals.
(626) 603-8548 View (626) 603-8548
Photo of Bonnie D Lucks - Applied DBT Clinicians, PhD, Psychologist
Applied DBT Clinicians
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92120
Linehan during the mid-90's and empirically validated for the treatment of Borderline Personality Disorder and other issues.
We specialize in DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) for the treatment of especially difficult to treat issues such as PTSD, Severe depression, Eating Disorders and the like. We are also well versed in issues of self-harm and frequent hospitalizations
Linehan during the mid-90's and empirically validated for the treatment of Borderline Personality Disorder and other issues.
We specialize in DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) for the treatment of especially difficult to treat issues such as PTSD, Severe depression, Eating Disorders and the like. We are also well versed in issues of self-harm and frequent hospitalizations
(619) 377-8309 View (619) 377-8309
Photo of Carrie Covell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carrie Covell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
My clients are vibrant, intelligent women and LGBTQIA+ community members who sometimes face challenges regulating their emotions, controlling their impulses, maintaining their relationships, and being compassionate toward themselves. I also see people who struggle with overthinking, mood fluctuations, and low self-esteem. Often, folks reach out after experiencing a loss or in the midst of a conflict or transition. I work frequently with arts and entertainment professionals, corporate leaders, and those whose loved ones have been diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder ( BPD).
My clients are vibrant, intelligent women and LGBTQIA+ community members who sometimes face challenges regulating their emotions, controlling their impulses, maintaining their relationships, and being compassionate toward themselves. I also see people who struggle with overthinking, mood fluctuations, and low self-esteem. Often, folks reach out after experiencing a loss or in the midst of a conflict or transition. I work frequently with arts and entertainment professionals, corporate leaders, and those whose loved ones have been diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder ( BPD).
(805) 295-0020 View (805) 295-0020
Photo of Jamie D. Bedics, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist
Jamie D. Bedics
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
I am a clinical psychologist and board certified in behavioral and cognitive therapy. As a professor and researcher, my clinical practice reflects the state-of-the art in evidence-based practice for depression, suicide, self-harm, anger, borderline personality disorder, and anxiety. I have a particular expertise in dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) of which I have published several scientific, peer-reviewed papers, an edited book, and have provided trainings throughout the country. I treat adolescents, families, and adults and provide consultation to numerous mental health agencies.
I am a clinical psychologist and board certified in behavioral and cognitive therapy. As a professor and researcher, my clinical practice reflects the state-of-the art in evidence-based practice for depression, suicide, self-harm, anger, borderline personality disorder, and anxiety. I have a particular expertise in dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) of which I have published several scientific, peer-reviewed papers, an edited book, and have provided trainings throughout the country. I treat adolescents, families, and adults and provide consultation to numerous mental health agencies.
(805) 424-5052 View (805) 424-5052
Photo of Keren L Clark, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Keren L Clark
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
It has been proven effective for difficulty with emotions and impulses, addiction, depression, anxiety and Borderline Personality Disorder.
Keren has worked extensively with individuals, couples and groups for the duration of her career assisting people to shift from a sense of powerlessness to deep personal empowerment. She has been intensively trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and is an EMDRIA certified practitioner of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Keren received her Masters degree from Antioch University in 1988 and was licensed in the state of California in 1990. She has always lived on the edge of her personal and professional growth, integrating it all into every aspect of her life.
It has been proven effective for difficulty with emotions and impulses, addiction, depression, anxiety and Borderline Personality Disorder.
Keren has worked extensively with individuals, couples and groups for the duration of her career assisting people to shift from a sense of powerlessness to deep personal empowerment. She has been intensively trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and is an EMDRIA certified practitioner of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Keren received her Masters degree from Antioch University in 1988 and was licensed in the state of California in 1990. She has always lived on the edge of her personal and professional growth, integrating it all into every aspect of her life.
(949) 427-2992 View (949) 427-2992
Photo of Kayla Uggetti, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kayla Uggetti
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90036
With extensive experience, I specialize in DBT for teens & adults facing BPD, anxiety, and depression.
Are you struggling with overwhelming emotions, anxiety, or depression? Do you feel like your relationships are often challenging or that your thoughts and feelings are difficult to manage? As a licensed therapist specializing in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), I am here to help you navigate these complex emotions and find a path to a more balanced and fulfilling life. Together, we can work towards helping you become more in tune with yourself by understanding the "why" and "now what?"
With extensive experience, I specialize in DBT for teens & adults facing BPD, anxiety, and depression.
Are you struggling with overwhelming emotions, anxiety, or depression? Do you feel like your relationships are often challenging or that your thoughts and feelings are difficult to manage? As a licensed therapist specializing in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), I am here to help you navigate these complex emotions and find a path to a more balanced and fulfilling life. Together, we can work towards helping you become more in tune with yourself by understanding the "why" and "now what?"
(310) 734-4345 View (310) 734-4345
Photo of Emily Livermore, PsyD, Psychologist
Emily Livermore
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redwood City, CA 94061
I specialize in evidenced based treatments for PTSD and BPD: Prolonged Exposure (PE), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Written Exposure Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
It is crucial to find a therapist that is a good fit, therefore, I like to take the first few sessions to get to know each other and decide if we want to work together. My expertise is working with people who have PTSD, Complex Trauma, and/or Borderline Personality Disorder. I use acceptance and exposure based principles to help you get in touch with your emotions, in the service of living a life that is aligned with your values. I will help you face your fears by taking action steps towards what is most important to you, reducing the hold that trauma has on your life.
I specialize in evidenced based treatments for PTSD and BPD: Prolonged Exposure (PE), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Written Exposure Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
It is crucial to find a therapist that is a good fit, therefore, I like to take the first few sessions to get to know each other and decide if we want to work together. My expertise is working with people who have PTSD, Complex Trauma, and/or Borderline Personality Disorder. I use acceptance and exposure based principles to help you get in touch with your emotions, in the service of living a life that is aligned with your values. I will help you face your fears by taking action steps towards what is most important to you, reducing the hold that trauma has on your life.
(650) 963-7958 View (650) 963-7958
Photo of Tiana Rogachevsky - DBT Center of Long Beach, Marriage & Family Therapist
DBT Center of Long Beach
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814
Located in Long Beach, CA, DBT Center of Long Beach was founded to provide a compassionate, welcoming and supportive environment for individuals seeking treatment for Borderline Personality Disorder ( BPD), anxiety, depression, self-harm, substance abuse and suicidal ideation through Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
Located in Long Beach, CA, DBT Center of Long Beach was founded to provide a compassionate, welcoming and supportive environment for individuals seeking treatment for Borderline Personality Disorder ( BPD), anxiety, depression, self-harm, substance abuse and suicidal ideation through Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
(949) 649-4965 View (949) 649-4965
Photo of Kelsie Testa, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kelsie Testa
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with folks who struggle with borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, substance abuse and co-occurring disorders.
Hi, my name is Kelsie. For many of us, the response to painful thoughts, emotions and life events is to check out, numb, avoid or shut down. To me, therapy work is not about learning to get rid of all the "bad stuff." It’s about learning how to show up and keep going DESPITE the "bad stuff." I combine a warm and accepting style with concrete skills to help you regulate your emotions, tolerate distress, identify values and goals that make life worth living and challenge thought patterns that get in the way. Above all, my approach is collaborative: we will decide together what balance of those tools will work best for you.
I specialize in working with folks who struggle with borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, substance abuse and co-occurring disorders.
Hi, my name is Kelsie. For many of us, the response to painful thoughts, emotions and life events is to check out, numb, avoid or shut down. To me, therapy work is not about learning to get rid of all the "bad stuff." It’s about learning how to show up and keep going DESPITE the "bad stuff." I combine a warm and accepting style with concrete skills to help you regulate your emotions, tolerate distress, identify values and goals that make life worth living and challenge thought patterns that get in the way. Above all, my approach is collaborative: we will decide together what balance of those tools will work best for you.
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Photo of Kathleen B De Luca, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Kathleen B De Luca
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
North Hollywood, CA 91601  (Online Only)
My specialty is working with individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder utilizing DBT.
Life can sometimes feel unsafe, out of control, and desperate. We find ourselves overwhelmed by life transitions, stress, anxiety, or depression. Perhaps you’re struggling to find stability in most areas of life, particularly relationships, feeling trapped on the emotional rollercoaster and out of control of your responses in times of distress. These seasons leave us feeling isolated, hopeless, and not knowing where to turn. Everyone deserves a safe therapeutic space and a chance to build a life worth living. Allow me to help! I provide a warm, non-judgmental and collaborative space to heal, grow, and overcome these life challenges.
My specialty is working with individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder utilizing DBT.
Life can sometimes feel unsafe, out of control, and desperate. We find ourselves overwhelmed by life transitions, stress, anxiety, or depression. Perhaps you’re struggling to find stability in most areas of life, particularly relationships, feeling trapped on the emotional rollercoaster and out of control of your responses in times of distress. These seasons leave us feeling isolated, hopeless, and not knowing where to turn. Everyone deserves a safe therapeutic space and a chance to build a life worth living. Allow me to help! I provide a warm, non-judgmental and collaborative space to heal, grow, and overcome these life challenges.
(323) 645-1928 View (323) 645-1928
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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.