Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in California

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 Anh D Weber, PhD, Psychologist
Anh D Weber
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94303
One of my particular interests is working with high-functioning clients who have borderline personality disorder.
My particular expertise and interest is in working with survivors of trauma, abuse and victimization. Having survived trauma, abuse and victimization can lead to a variety of outcomes. Some people survive trauma with no problems at all, while other people develop anxiety, depression, substance use, personality or relationship issues. Various traumatic events, such as parental divorce or substance abuse, are very common even in middle class populations and have often both physical and psychological effects many years after the experienced trauma.
One of my particular interests is working with high-functioning clients who have borderline personality disorder.
My particular expertise and interest is in working with survivors of trauma, abuse and victimization. Having survived trauma, abuse and victimization can lead to a variety of outcomes. Some people survive trauma with no problems at all, while other people develop anxiety, depression, substance use, personality or relationship issues. Various traumatic events, such as parental divorce or substance abuse, are very common even in middle class populations and have often both physical and psychological effects many years after the experienced trauma.
(650) 720-4564 View (650) 720-4564
Photo of Colleen Auth, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Colleen Auth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
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 Emily Livermore, PsyD, Psychologist
Emily Livermore
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Redwood City, CA 94061
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.
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 Sharon S Dunas, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sharon S Dunas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90024
When mental illness strikes a family, it is as if 'someone threw a hand grenade into the family.' I can help you deal with your family member with a brain disorder. Let me help you learn to cope and advocate for your relative with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, depression with psychotic features, panic attacks, obsessive compulsive disorder and borderline personality disorder. You deserve a life even though your relative has a brain disorder. I am President of the National Alliance on Mental Illness for Westside Los Angeles. Check out what we can offer you: website www.namila.org
When mental illness strikes a family, it is as if 'someone threw a hand grenade into the family.' I can help you deal with your family member with a brain disorder. Let me help you learn to cope and advocate for your relative with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, depression with psychotic features, panic attacks, obsessive compulsive disorder and borderline personality disorder. You deserve a life even though your relative has a brain disorder. I am President of the National Alliance on Mental Illness for Westside Los Angeles. Check out what we can offer you: website www.namila.org
(310) 207-3505 View (310) 207-3505
Photo of Monica Esquival, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Monica Esquival
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Temecula, CA 92592  (Online Only)
Living with Borderline Personality Disorder, Depression, or Anxiety means confronting a complex web of emotions daily. My approach centers on understanding your unique narrative, embracing a holistic view of your struggles. I believe in a therapeutic partnership where your voice leads the way, helping us to navigate through the challenges together. With compassion and respect, we'll work to uncover the patterns and behaviors that hold you back, aiming for a deeper self-understanding and more balanced emotional life.
Living with Borderline Personality Disorder, Depression, or Anxiety means confronting a complex web of emotions daily. My approach centers on understanding your unique narrative, embracing a holistic view of your struggles. I believe in a therapeutic partnership where your voice leads the way, helping us to navigate through the challenges together. With compassion and respect, we'll work to uncover the patterns and behaviors that hold you back, aiming for a deeper self-understanding and more balanced emotional life.
(951) 498-5984 View (951) 498-5984
Photo of Susan Horvat, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Susan Horvat
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
It takes courage to start/restart therapy - well done for taking the first step! Whether your therapeutic needs are straightforward or complex, my ultimate goal is to empower you. I specialize in treating BPD and complex trauma. Many of my clients identify as creative, sensitive, and/or neurodiverse (ADHD, Autism) and tend to struggle with some combination of anxiety, depression, disordered eating, and/or substance abuse. Whatever you're facing, we will customize your treatment plan together in order to get you the best, most efficient results possible.
It takes courage to start/restart therapy - well done for taking the first step! Whether your therapeutic needs are straightforward or complex, my ultimate goal is to empower you. I specialize in treating BPD and complex trauma. Many of my clients identify as creative, sensitive, and/or neurodiverse (ADHD, Autism) and tend to struggle with some combination of anxiety, depression, disordered eating, and/or substance abuse. Whatever you're facing, we will customize your treatment plan together in order to get you the best, most efficient results possible.
(714) 408-7006 View (714) 408-7006
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 Dr. Courtney M Tracy, LCSW, PsyD, CCTP, C-PD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Courtney M Tracy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PsyD, CCTP, C-PD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laguna Beach, CA 92651  (Online Only)
As someone with both clinical expertise and 'lived experience' when it comes to substance use and borderline personality, I'm here to help those who need someone who 'really' gets it. Perhaps you're seeking relief from big emotions you can't seem to control or you're experiencing an existential crisis related to past traumas or maybe you use substances to feel better and now it's doing more harm than help. Regardless of what brought you to Psychology Today, you've already taken the first big step toward finding the right therapist for you. And it could be me based on your search results! Reach out and let's begin.
As someone with both clinical expertise and 'lived experience' when it comes to substance use and borderline personality, I'm here to help those who need someone who 'really' gets it. Perhaps you're seeking relief from big emotions you can't seem to control or you're experiencing an existential crisis related to past traumas or maybe you use substances to feel better and now it's doing more harm than help. Regardless of what brought you to Psychology Today, you've already taken the first big step toward finding the right therapist for you. And it could be me based on your search results! Reach out and let's begin.
(949) 835-5341 View (949) 835-5341
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 Lena Nicodemus, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lena Nicodemus
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
I specialize in obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), borderline personality disorder (BPD), neurodivergence, trauma, anxiety, and depression.
Do you feel trapped by your anxious rumination, obsessive-compulsive patterns, and people-pleasing behaviors? Have you seen therapists in the past who you feel like listened and validated you but didn't help you figure out what to actually do about your anxiety? Maybe you feel like your previous trauma makes it hard for you to feel like you can connect with loved ones in relationship now? I help highly motivated clients like you learn how to manage your anxiety and get your needs met in your relationships. There is hope for you to live a life that feels worth living.
I specialize in obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), borderline personality disorder (BPD), neurodivergence, trauma, anxiety, and depression.
Do you feel trapped by your anxious rumination, obsessive-compulsive patterns, and people-pleasing behaviors? Have you seen therapists in the past who you feel like listened and validated you but didn't help you figure out what to actually do about your anxiety? Maybe you feel like your previous trauma makes it hard for you to feel like you can connect with loved ones in relationship now? I help highly motivated clients like you learn how to manage your anxiety and get your needs met in your relationships. There is hope for you to live a life that feels worth living.
(415) 991-6762 View (415) 991-6762
Photo of Adrienne Ramirez Trauma Therapist Parts Work Emdr, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Adrienne Ramirez Trauma Therapist Parts Work Emdr
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Chico, CA 95926  (Online Only)
My areas of interest include: Attachment/Developmental trauma, Complex post-traumatic stress disorder, Borderline personality Disorder, Depersonalization/Derealization Disorders, Structural dissociation, and dissociative identity disorder.
I am extremely passionate about empowering individuals, couples and families to heal and live their best, most authentic lives. I strongly believe that each and every individual, regardless of background, ability, or beliefs, should have a safe space where they can feel comfortable being their true self. I know that sitting across from someone with similar experiences can help to build trust and promote connection, and am therefore deeply committed to holding space for those who need to be heard.
My areas of interest include: Attachment/Developmental trauma, Complex post-traumatic stress disorder, Borderline personality Disorder, Depersonalization/Derealization Disorders, Structural dissociation, and dissociative identity disorder.
I am extremely passionate about empowering individuals, couples and families to heal and live their best, most authentic lives. I strongly believe that each and every individual, regardless of background, ability, or beliefs, should have a safe space where they can feel comfortable being their true self. I know that sitting across from someone with similar experiences can help to build trust and promote connection, and am therefore deeply committed to holding space for those who need to be heard.
(530) 424-2212 View (530) 424-2212
Photo of Neil Friedman, LSCW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Neil Friedman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCW
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
I have a broad based of experience in mental health. I believe I have significantly helped people with PTSD, Bipolar, Borderline Personality Disorder, Couples' Difficulties, Adolescents, Grief Issues, Communication Difficulties and Identity Issues. For more information visit: www.santabarbara-therapy.com
I have a broad based of experience in mental health. I believe I have significantly helped people with PTSD, Bipolar, Borderline Personality Disorder, Couples' Difficulties, Adolescents, Grief Issues, Communication Difficulties and Identity Issues. For more information visit: www.santabarbara-therapy.com
(805) 465-6393 View (805) 465-6393
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 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 Stephanie Drotman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Drotman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423  (Online Only)
DBT Family Classes are also available to families and loved ones of those struggling with BPD, SUD, or Bipolar Disorder.
Is your daily life chaotic and distressing? Do you struggle to navigate friendships or romantic relationships? Are there days you feel like you just cannot stop your thoughts from spiraling out of control? I am an intensively trained DBT therapist specializing in Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Complex Trauma, Relationship / Attachment issues, and Addictive / Co-Occurring Disorders. I utilize a non-judgmental, person-centered, strengths-based approach, incorporating additional evidence-based modalities such as ACT, CBT, Prolonged Exposure, TF-CBT, and IFS to help you begin to build your life worth living.
DBT Family Classes are also available to families and loved ones of those struggling with BPD, SUD, or Bipolar Disorder.
Is your daily life chaotic and distressing? Do you struggle to navigate friendships or romantic relationships? Are there days you feel like you just cannot stop your thoughts from spiraling out of control? I am an intensively trained DBT therapist specializing in Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Complex Trauma, Relationship / Attachment issues, and Addictive / Co-Occurring Disorders. I utilize a non-judgmental, person-centered, strengths-based approach, incorporating additional evidence-based modalities such as ACT, CBT, Prolonged Exposure, TF-CBT, and IFS to help you begin to build your life worth living.
(424) 334-2290 View (424) 334-2290
Photo of Megan Rich, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Megan Rich
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91436
Working with adults, adolescents and groups, I treat clinical issues including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, borderline personality disorder, low self esteem and relationship issues.
I provide client-centered and collaborative relational therapy informed by evidence-based treatments such as DBT, CBT, and ACT. My practice is rooted in compassion and self-determination and I help my clients dismantle the obstacles that hold them back from leading fulfilling lives. Together, we’ll identify your goals and values and build the skills required to live in line with both by exploring the personal historical patterns that have brought you to this point in your life.
Working with adults, adolescents and groups, I treat clinical issues including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, borderline personality disorder, low self esteem and relationship issues.
I provide client-centered and collaborative relational therapy informed by evidence-based treatments such as DBT, CBT, and ACT. My practice is rooted in compassion and self-determination and I help my clients dismantle the obstacles that hold them back from leading fulfilling lives. Together, we’ll identify your goals and values and build the skills required to live in line with both by exploring the personal historical patterns that have brought you to this point in your life.
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Photo of Jessica Hancock, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jessica Hancock
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95838
I have been working in community mental health for 16 years and have focused my clinical experience on treating trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use, and Borderline Personality Disorder utilizing DBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Harm Reduction. My goal as your therapist is to support you in developing an authentic relationship with yourself, integrating challenges, and achieving your identified goals for therapy.
I have been working in community mental health for 16 years and have focused my clinical experience on treating trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use, and Borderline Personality Disorder utilizing DBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Harm Reduction. My goal as your therapist is to support you in developing an authentic relationship with yourself, integrating challenges, and achieving your identified goals for therapy.
(916) 299-9163 View (916) 299-9163
Photo of Brenda Estrada - Brenda Estrada (Deep Wellness Center), MS, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Brenda Estrada (Deep Wellness Center)
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Modesto, CA 95356
Specialties Include: Depression, Women’s Issues, Anxiety, Life Transitions, Mood Disorders, ADHD, Trauma, Borderline Personality Disorder and Behavioral Issues.
Hello! My name is Brenda Estrada Ramirez, and I am a bilingual Associate Marriage and Family Therapist. I have a genuine interest in helping children, adults and families achieve a greater sense of wellness in their lives. Throughout our time we experience life changes that are unexpected or difficult to manage. During tough times one can find themselves overwhelmed, stressed, and feeling alone. It is important for individuals who are experiencing life changes or mental health challenges to reach out for additional support.
Specialties Include: Depression, Women’s Issues, Anxiety, Life Transitions, Mood Disorders, ADHD, Trauma, Borderline Personality Disorder and Behavioral Issues.
Hello! My name is Brenda Estrada Ramirez, and I am a bilingual Associate Marriage and Family Therapist. I have a genuine interest in helping children, adults and families achieve a greater sense of wellness in their lives. Throughout our time we experience life changes that are unexpected or difficult to manage. During tough times one can find themselves overwhelmed, stressed, and feeling alone. It is important for individuals who are experiencing life changes or mental health challenges to reach out for additional support.
(209) 457-5850 View (209) 457-5850
Photo of Czarina Salazar Navarro, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Czarina Salazar Navarro
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 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
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.