Photo of Brianna Doran, MS, LMHC
Brianna Doran
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Melbourne, FL 32940  (Online Only)
Accepting help can be incredibly difficult and very scary; especially when you don't know what you're looking for! I recognize that mental health is complex, and I take a very person-forward approach to help you and/or your family reach healthy goals and feel better! Hi, I’m Brianna! I am a mental health counselor specializing in trauma, eating disorders, borderline personality disorder, and bipolar/other serious mental health issues. Currently pursuing my Ph.D. in Developmental Psychology (focusing in women's development)! I especially love working with pre-teen, teen girls, and women!
Accepting help can be incredibly difficult and very scary; especially when you don't know what you're looking for! I recognize that mental health is complex, and I take a very person-forward approach to help you and/or your family reach healthy goals and feel better! Hi, I’m Brianna! I am a mental health counselor specializing in trauma, eating disorders, borderline personality disorder, and bipolar/other serious mental health issues. Currently pursuing my Ph.D. in Developmental Psychology (focusing in women's development)! I especially love working with pre-teen, teen girls, and women!
(321) 541-4734 View (321) 541-4734
Photo of Alyse November, PhD, LCSW, ACSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alyse November
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, ACSW, CST
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33433
EMDR, Trauma, Brainspotting, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness modalities of treatment provided. Feel stressed, anxious, depressed, worried, hopeless and nothing that you try has helped? I work with children, teens, adults, older adults and families, specializing in trauma, anxiety, T1D, Chronic and Acute illness, Depression, Childhood trauma, Parenting, Mood disorders, Family conflict, Divorce/separation, Autism, ADHD, OCD, BPD, Bipolar, Sensory Disorders, LGBTQ, Racial challenges and More.. Life shouldn’t be so hard, I can help. Psychoeducational, disability and gifted testing also available. Telehealth sessions ok.
EMDR, Trauma, Brainspotting, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness modalities of treatment provided. Feel stressed, anxious, depressed, worried, hopeless and nothing that you try has helped? I work with children, teens, adults, older adults and families, specializing in trauma, anxiety, T1D, Chronic and Acute illness, Depression, Childhood trauma, Parenting, Mood disorders, Family conflict, Divorce/separation, Autism, ADHD, OCD, BPD, Bipolar, Sensory Disorders, LGBTQ, Racial challenges and More.. Life shouldn’t be so hard, I can help. Psychoeducational, disability and gifted testing also available. Telehealth sessions ok.
(561) 264-1012 View (561) 264-1012
Photo of Patrick M. DeCarlo, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patrick M. DeCarlo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Davie, FL 33330
I hold a specialized proficiency in supporting individuals facing the intense complexities of Borderline Personality Disorder, major depressive episodes, self-injury behaviors, and the long-term effects of childhood trauma.
I treat the thorniest aspects of relationships, such as persistent conflicts, deep-rooted communication barriers, and issues surrounding intimacy. When infidelity, parenting disagreements, or broader family conflicts push a relationship to its breaking point, my client-centered approach can pave the way for healing and recovery. If your partnership is facing such challenges, know that there's hope. Via targeted assessments and straightforward yet compassionate interventions, I aim to help you both mend and strengthen the bonds of your relationship.
I hold a specialized proficiency in supporting individuals facing the intense complexities of Borderline Personality Disorder, major depressive episodes, self-injury behaviors, and the long-term effects of childhood trauma.
I treat the thorniest aspects of relationships, such as persistent conflicts, deep-rooted communication barriers, and issues surrounding intimacy. When infidelity, parenting disagreements, or broader family conflicts push a relationship to its breaking point, my client-centered approach can pave the way for healing and recovery. If your partnership is facing such challenges, know that there's hope. Via targeted assessments and straightforward yet compassionate interventions, I aim to help you both mend and strengthen the bonds of your relationship.
(954) 547-8982 View (954) 547-8982
Photo of Susan G Ellis - Susan G. Ellis, Ph.D., P.A., PhD, MA, Psychologist
Susan G. Ellis, Ph.D., P.A.
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
Largo, FL 33771
Adult, adolescents, children, and families are welcome to call, inquire about services, and schedule an appointment for evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment for the problems in their lives and for the mental health and well-being they seek. I am here to help. I am a licensed psychologist, licensed marriage and family therapist, licensed school psychologist, and Florida Supreme Court Certified Family Mediator offering services to individuals, couples, marriages, families and relationships. I can help with behavioral and emotional problems and with interpersonal problems in your personal life and workplace. *Anger *Borderline
Adult, adolescents, children, and families are welcome to call, inquire about services, and schedule an appointment for evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment for the problems in their lives and for the mental health and well-being they seek. I am here to help. I am a licensed psychologist, licensed marriage and family therapist, licensed school psychologist, and Florida Supreme Court Certified Family Mediator offering services to individuals, couples, marriages, families and relationships. I can help with behavioral and emotional problems and with interpersonal problems in your personal life and workplace. *Anger *Borderline
(727) 205-1163 View (727) 205-1163
Photo of Rana J Abbas - Mind Balance Counseling LLC, MA, LMHC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mind Balance Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32822
Rana is trained in the Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing approach (EMDR) which works with multiple disorders. Rana is experienced in trauma (PTSD), bipolar disorder, eating disorder, borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, phobia, ADHD, anger management, and mood disorder. In her practice, Individual counseling, family counseling, couples counseling, and LGBTQ. She is well versed and knowledgeable in several counseling techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Solution-focused therapy, Mindfulness therapy, and existential therapy.
Rana is trained in the Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing approach (EMDR) which works with multiple disorders. Rana is experienced in trauma (PTSD), bipolar disorder, eating disorder, borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, phobia, ADHD, anger management, and mood disorder. In her practice, Individual counseling, family counseling, couples counseling, and LGBTQ. She is well versed and knowledgeable in several counseling techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Solution-focused therapy, Mindfulness therapy, and existential therapy.
(248) 599-0142 View (248) 599-0142
Photo of Monique Darnell, MS, LPC, LMHC, CAADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Monique Darnell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LMHC, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547  (Online Only)
We offer services for Adjustment disorders, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Eating Disorder, Emotional Disturbances of Childhood and Adolescence, Major Depression Disorder, Obsessive Compulsion Disorder, Panic Disorder, and Postpartum Depression.
About your therapist, Hello, my name is Monique Darnell. I am a multi-state Licensed Professional Counselor. I am a therapist that leads and shows compassion. I believe in changing lives, and I believe in what I do. Though days can be rough, I find comfort in the things that bring me joy, reading, resting, and watching a good show. I am a parent, an author and a arts and craft woman. I understand what it is like to work through things and how it feels to be human. When it comes to my therapy approach, I like to think of it as holistic. This kind of therapy integrates spiritual, physical, mental, and emotional forms of well-being. I
We offer services for Adjustment disorders, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Eating Disorder, Emotional Disturbances of Childhood and Adolescence, Major Depression Disorder, Obsessive Compulsion Disorder, Panic Disorder, and Postpartum Depression.
About your therapist, Hello, my name is Monique Darnell. I am a multi-state Licensed Professional Counselor. I am a therapist that leads and shows compassion. I believe in changing lives, and I believe in what I do. Though days can be rough, I find comfort in the things that bring me joy, reading, resting, and watching a good show. I am a parent, an author and a arts and craft woman. I understand what it is like to work through things and how it feels to be human. When it comes to my therapy approach, I like to think of it as holistic. This kind of therapy integrates spiritual, physical, mental, and emotional forms of well-being. I
(470) 516-9097 View (470) 516-9097
Photo of Sandra Rublee, MSW, LCSW-C, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sandra Rublee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, LISW
Verified Verified
Fernandina Beach, FL 32034  (Online Only)
I provide high-quality care for children, adolescents, and adults in MD, DC, and FL using scientifically proven therapies via telehealth. I specialize in treating all types of eating disorders (anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, ARFID, OSFED) for adults, teens, and children. I am certified in Family Based Treatment/ Maudsley Method (FBT) which is the gold standard for treating adolescents with eating disorders. If you need help with different problems related to anxiety, depression, low self esteem, perinatal mood disorders, personality disorders, parenting, or issues related to life transition I can help.
I provide high-quality care for children, adolescents, and adults in MD, DC, and FL using scientifically proven therapies via telehealth. I specialize in treating all types of eating disorders (anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, ARFID, OSFED) for adults, teens, and children. I am certified in Family Based Treatment/ Maudsley Method (FBT) which is the gold standard for treating adolescents with eating disorders. If you need help with different problems related to anxiety, depression, low self esteem, perinatal mood disorders, personality disorders, parenting, or issues related to life transition I can help.
(904) 906-2121 View (904) 906-2121
Photo of Carl E Byrd, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Carl E Byrd
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
Milton, FL 32570
Every one of us are challenged with issues, require various needs, and have goals we hope to achieve. My desire is to partner with you in the journey of life and traverse through these issues, discover fulfillment to needs, and achieve goals successfully. Doing life alone does not have to be an option and the acknowledgement of the need for assistance displays strength. I am here to provide you the support, encouragement, and truthful accountability needed to bring individuals and families to a position of understanding and success.
Every one of us are challenged with issues, require various needs, and have goals we hope to achieve. My desire is to partner with you in the journey of life and traverse through these issues, discover fulfillment to needs, and achieve goals successfully. Doing life alone does not have to be an option and the acknowledgement of the need for assistance displays strength. I am here to provide you the support, encouragement, and truthful accountability needed to bring individuals and families to a position of understanding and success.
(850) 790-4976 View (850) 790-4976
Photo of Kaitlin Leithauser, LMHC, MFT, Counselor
Kaitlin Leithauser
Counselor, LMHC, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boynton Beach, FL 33426
Are you finding everyday life decisions overwhelming? Do you find that your bad days outweigh your good ones? Do you need to hit the emotional reset button? Being transparent about some of our hardships and issues is one of the bravest things we can do, and I am here to help. My goal is to assist you on your journey by providing a safe environment and building a strong therapeutic alliance by providing empathy, hope, validation, support and problem-solving as you work to overcome your issues. I believe you have all the tools you need to work through your issues and create change, let me assist you in uncovering them.
Are you finding everyday life decisions overwhelming? Do you find that your bad days outweigh your good ones? Do you need to hit the emotional reset button? Being transparent about some of our hardships and issues is one of the bravest things we can do, and I am here to help. My goal is to assist you on your journey by providing a safe environment and building a strong therapeutic alliance by providing empathy, hope, validation, support and problem-solving as you work to overcome your issues. I believe you have all the tools you need to work through your issues and create change, let me assist you in uncovering them.
(561) 448-9557 View (561) 448-9557
Photo of Alma Lovaton Quagliato, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alma Lovaton Quagliato
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33129
It has always been our goal at The Counseling Group to help people navigate the difficult cycles of their lives by discovering their own unique abilities to heal and grow. We have specialists who treat a wide variety of problems such as depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, ADHD, PTSD,eating disorders, and personality disorders.
It has always been our goal at The Counseling Group to help people navigate the difficult cycles of their lives by discovering their own unique abilities to heal and grow. We have specialists who treat a wide variety of problems such as depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, ADHD, PTSD,eating disorders, and personality disorders.
(305) 834-4361 View (305) 834-4361
Photo of Eva Goode, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eva Goode
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Palm Beach, FL 33413  (Online Only)
I would like to commend you for reaching out and becoming open to therapy from a licensed professional. Asking for help can be the most difficult step and I would like to assist you on your journey. I am currently offering video and phone telehealth sessions. l am specifically trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy. I will also use the approach that works for your specific needs because all Individuals are unique and you deserve tailored care. I will work towards your specific goals with a non-judgmental approach that promotes a feeling of safety while helping you learn how to manage emotions and distressing situations.
I would like to commend you for reaching out and becoming open to therapy from a licensed professional. Asking for help can be the most difficult step and I would like to assist you on your journey. I am currently offering video and phone telehealth sessions. l am specifically trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy. I will also use the approach that works for your specific needs because all Individuals are unique and you deserve tailored care. I will work towards your specific goals with a non-judgmental approach that promotes a feeling of safety while helping you learn how to manage emotions and distressing situations.
(970) 551-2517 View (970) 551-2517
Photo of Sara Brenker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara Brenker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Deerfield Beach, FL 33441  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Sara! Here’s to taking the first step towards change. I am a modern, relatable, collaborative therapist who strives to gain a strong therapeutic bond with my clients. As a licensed therapist, I’m seeking to guide adults, teens, couples, and families cope with the stresses of everyday life. I want to help those impacted by anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, codependency, body image issues, addiction, and relationship difficulties. Whether you are seeking to improve your relationships, increase your overall well-being, or are experiencing life challenges I am here to help.
Hi, I'm Sara! Here’s to taking the first step towards change. I am a modern, relatable, collaborative therapist who strives to gain a strong therapeutic bond with my clients. As a licensed therapist, I’m seeking to guide adults, teens, couples, and families cope with the stresses of everyday life. I want to help those impacted by anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, codependency, body image issues, addiction, and relationship difficulties. Whether you are seeking to improve your relationships, increase your overall well-being, or are experiencing life challenges I am here to help.
(954) 231-1634 View (954) 231-1634
Photo of Roderick O'neil Perry - Helping Homes Counseling & Wellness LLC, MS,  , LMHC, Counselor
Helping Homes Counseling & Wellness LLC
Counselor, MS, , LMHC
Verified Verified
Palm Coast, FL 32137
Are you struggling with things which seem to be beyond your control? Are you worried? Do family and friends find it difficult to understand your motives or thinking patterns? Do you find it challenging to establish relationships? Why worry about it when you can talk about it! Roderick’s counseling style is considered a “ Judgement free zone." Sessions are HOPE-filled and tailored for your needs. In our sessions you will learn tools to become a better version of yourself with the ability to have a more productive life. He can help you work through your fears and anxiety. He specializes in helping individuals, couples and families.
Are you struggling with things which seem to be beyond your control? Are you worried? Do family and friends find it difficult to understand your motives or thinking patterns? Do you find it challenging to establish relationships? Why worry about it when you can talk about it! Roderick’s counseling style is considered a “ Judgement free zone." Sessions are HOPE-filled and tailored for your needs. In our sessions you will learn tools to become a better version of yourself with the ability to have a more productive life. He can help you work through your fears and anxiety. He specializes in helping individuals, couples and families.
(386) 344-7575 View (386) 344-7575
Photo of Elsa M Orlandini - Miami Psychology Group, PsyD, CST, Psychologist
Miami Psychology Group
Psychologist, PsyD, CST
Verified Verified
Miami Beach, FL 33139
We at the Miami Psychology Group (MPG) believe in providing effective, kind and supportive treatment. All our professionals participate in ongoing training to maintain the highest standards in our field. We encourage all clients to participate in initial interviews to see if the practice professionals can meet your needs and most importantly help heal, address and consult on the presenting reason or reasons for attempting treatment. We do not participate in insurance and can provide information on how to have your insurance cover some of the cost if that option is available to you through your insurance.
We at the Miami Psychology Group (MPG) believe in providing effective, kind and supportive treatment. All our professionals participate in ongoing training to maintain the highest standards in our field. We encourage all clients to participate in initial interviews to see if the practice professionals can meet your needs and most importantly help heal, address and consult on the presenting reason or reasons for attempting treatment. We do not participate in insurance and can provide information on how to have your insurance cover some of the cost if that option is available to you through your insurance.
(305) 676-9667 View (305) 676-9667
Photo of Anna Halliday, LMHC, EdM, MA, Counselor
Anna Halliday
Counselor, LMHC, EdM, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Aventura, FL 33180
Hi! I'm Anna Halliday (she/her), a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Life Coach, and Qualified Supervisor. I counsel clients from a dynamic, identity-affirmative approach focused on fostering warmth, compassion, and acceptance. I enjoy helping clients develop a unique voice to write their personal life narrative, which I've found to be essential for attaining growth and change. I believe in a holistic path to healing that integrates therapy and am the proud founder of wellness center, Healing Space Therapy Collective. I'm currently studying for a PhD in Clinical Sexology and will soon be certified as a Kink Aware Sex Therapist.
Hi! I'm Anna Halliday (she/her), a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Life Coach, and Qualified Supervisor. I counsel clients from a dynamic, identity-affirmative approach focused on fostering warmth, compassion, and acceptance. I enjoy helping clients develop a unique voice to write their personal life narrative, which I've found to be essential for attaining growth and change. I believe in a holistic path to healing that integrates therapy and am the proud founder of wellness center, Healing Space Therapy Collective. I'm currently studying for a PhD in Clinical Sexology and will soon be certified as a Kink Aware Sex Therapist.
(305) 205-3810 View (305) 205-3810
Photo of Dr. Laura C Franco, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Laura C Franco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brandon, FL 33511
I am the owner of Life Solutions Services, a practice focused on providing a wide range of services including psychotherapy, hypnoyherapy, medication management and outpatient opioid detox, provided by skilled and experienced clinicians. I often say to our new clients that it takes a lot of courage to reach out and begin their journey towards better mental health. When you finally make the decision to contact a therapist and schedule your first appointment, you are beginning to regain some control over your life. I am proud of you for starting your journey by researching a clinician you feel you will be able to trust.
I am the owner of Life Solutions Services, a practice focused on providing a wide range of services including psychotherapy, hypnoyherapy, medication management and outpatient opioid detox, provided by skilled and experienced clinicians. I often say to our new clients that it takes a lot of courage to reach out and begin their journey towards better mental health. When you finally make the decision to contact a therapist and schedule your first appointment, you are beginning to regain some control over your life. I am proud of you for starting your journey by researching a clinician you feel you will be able to trust.
(954) 280-1966 View (954) 280-1966
Photo of Amber Marchione - The Therapy Hub, MS, LMHC, PhD, Counselor
The Therapy Hub
Counselor, MS, LMHC, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
We are a group of down-to-earth, open, and smart counselors that want to collaborate with you to become the happiest version of yourself. We believe in your ability to make lasting changes, with the company of a compassionate therapeutic relationship- where we teach, counsel, heal, and support you. Life can get us knotted up and we want to help you to untangle that knot and start feeling like your ideal self again...or for the very first time; by finally addressing the trauma, sadness, anxiety, lack of motivation, poor relationships, poor coping skills, lack of balance and calm, and other issues that hold you back.
We are a group of down-to-earth, open, and smart counselors that want to collaborate with you to become the happiest version of yourself. We believe in your ability to make lasting changes, with the company of a compassionate therapeutic relationship- where we teach, counsel, heal, and support you. Life can get us knotted up and we want to help you to untangle that knot and start feeling like your ideal self again...or for the very first time; by finally addressing the trauma, sadness, anxiety, lack of motivation, poor relationships, poor coping skills, lack of balance and calm, and other issues that hold you back.
(772) 266-7923 View (772) 266-7923
Photo of Kerri Timothy, MA, LMHC
Kerri Timothy
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lutz, FL 33549
Hi, I have been in the Mental Health field for over 30 years and have been counseling for over 12 years. I am very passionate about encouraging individuals through their own, unique journey of healing. Life is full of ups and downs and we all experience some degree of hardship and disappointment. Yet, there are times the hurt can become so intense it forces us to need extra support and guidance! I believe the counseling relationship should be built on trust, acceptance, respect and genuine concern. There is always hope and I am here to help you find it. You are worth it!
Hi, I have been in the Mental Health field for over 30 years and have been counseling for over 12 years. I am very passionate about encouraging individuals through their own, unique journey of healing. Life is full of ups and downs and we all experience some degree of hardship and disappointment. Yet, there are times the hurt can become so intense it forces us to need extra support and guidance! I believe the counseling relationship should be built on trust, acceptance, respect and genuine concern. There is always hope and I am here to help you find it. You are worth it!
(813) 501-6717 View (813) 501-6717
Photo of David Scott La Pensee - David S. La Pensee LCSW, LICSW, MSW, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David S. La Pensee LCSW, LICSW, MSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33607
During my long career, treating adolescents, adults, couples and families I have striven to provide high quality behavioral health services to a very diverse and broad spectrum of clients. My therapeutic style is caring and compassionate, always with the goal of assisting you to overcome the challenges you are facing, in the most effective way I can. I strive to partner with you and to create a therapeutic alliance so you will feel that you have a thepist who wants to listen and help. I look forward to meeting with you, so we can begin the process of change. The first step is the hardest, but it can lead to enhancing your life.
During my long career, treating adolescents, adults, couples and families I have striven to provide high quality behavioral health services to a very diverse and broad spectrum of clients. My therapeutic style is caring and compassionate, always with the goal of assisting you to overcome the challenges you are facing, in the most effective way I can. I strive to partner with you and to create a therapeutic alliance so you will feel that you have a thepist who wants to listen and help. I look forward to meeting with you, so we can begin the process of change. The first step is the hardest, but it can lead to enhancing your life.
(813) 336-8036 View (813) 336-8036
Photo of Raquel Menocal, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Raquel Menocal
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33602
Hello everyone! I am a licensed therapist who specializes in marriage and family therapy—that just means that on top of helping with clinical mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, adjustment, etc., I am specially trained in family and relationship needs as well. I picked a specialty in marriage and family therapy because I genuinely believe that societal, family, and cultural conditions deeply influence the way we think, feel, act, and react to day-to-day interactions—which is the foundation of MFT’s systemic perspective.
Hello everyone! I am a licensed therapist who specializes in marriage and family therapy—that just means that on top of helping with clinical mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, adjustment, etc., I am specially trained in family and relationship needs as well. I picked a specialty in marriage and family therapy because I genuinely believe that societal, family, and cultural conditions deeply influence the way we think, feel, act, and react to day-to-day interactions—which is the foundation of MFT’s systemic perspective.
(813) 547-6998 View (813) 547-6998
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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.