Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in Michigan

Photo of Katherine Ann DeVries - Katherine DeVries Therapy, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katherine DeVries Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
Life comes with many challenges and sometimes even great pain, yet I believe in the power of shared experience and application of research-based interventions to help you feel balanced, empowered, and capable of moving forward toward your goals. I focus on working with adults and adolescents experiencing self harm, suicide ideation, depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse, co-occurring disorders, stage of life changes, grief, stress, and anger management. In addition, I specialize in helping individuals and family systems affected by the symptoms of Borderline Personality Disorder.
Life comes with many challenges and sometimes even great pain, yet I believe in the power of shared experience and application of research-based interventions to help you feel balanced, empowered, and capable of moving forward toward your goals. I focus on working with adults and adolescents experiencing self harm, suicide ideation, depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse, co-occurring disorders, stage of life changes, grief, stress, and anger management. In addition, I specialize in helping individuals and family systems affected by the symptoms of Borderline Personality Disorder.
(616) 710-1033 View (616) 710-1033
Photo of Dr. Erika A. Brown, PsyD, DLLP, LPC, NCC, ACS, Counselor
Dr. Erika A. Brown
Counselor, PsyD, DLLP, LPC, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New Haven, MI 48048  (Online Only)
My name is Dr. Erika A. Brown, I am a Doctoral Educated Limited Licensed Psychologist, Licensed Professional Counselor, and Owner of TC Counseling Transformations, PLLC. I specialize in treating various areas with adults including the following (to name a few): Mood Disorders, Borderline Personality, PTSD/Trauma, and Relationship Difficulties. I have a special interest in and focused my dissertation on racial identity development, specifically with Multiracial individuals. If racial identity is your presenting difficulty, I am accepting patients as young as 15.
My name is Dr. Erika A. Brown, I am a Doctoral Educated Limited Licensed Psychologist, Licensed Professional Counselor, and Owner of TC Counseling Transformations, PLLC. I specialize in treating various areas with adults including the following (to name a few): Mood Disorders, Borderline Personality, PTSD/Trauma, and Relationship Difficulties. I have a special interest in and focused my dissertation on racial identity development, specifically with Multiracial individuals. If racial identity is your presenting difficulty, I am accepting patients as young as 15.
(231) 225-4403 View (231) 225-4403
Photo of Christian Todd Osborn, LMSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christian Todd Osborn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Clarkston, MI 48346
This treatment was designed to help those suffering from Borderline Personality Disorder, but it has also proven to be effective for those diagnosed as Bipolar.
Sometimes life can be overwhelming. Strong emotions can lead you to do things that get in the way of living the life you want. Depression keeps you from getting out of bed, anger has you fighting with those we love most and anxiety can leave you feeling almost paralyzed. Know that you don't have to go through it alone. I'm here to help and we can create positive change in your life. Just give me a call.
This treatment was designed to help those suffering from Borderline Personality Disorder, but it has also proven to be effective for those diagnosed as Bipolar.
Sometimes life can be overwhelming. Strong emotions can lead you to do things that get in the way of living the life you want. Depression keeps you from getting out of bed, anger has you fighting with those we love most and anxiety can leave you feeling almost paralyzed. Know that you don't have to go through it alone. I'm here to help and we can create positive change in your life. Just give me a call.
(248) 707-2774 View (248) 707-2774
Photo of Melissa Mendoza, LMSW
Melissa Mendoza
Master Social Work, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067
Treating Adult Females with Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Borderline Personality Disorder, Relationship Issues (via individual therapy), Familial Issues, ect.
Life certainly isn't easy. Every one of us no matter who we are needs help at one time or another. Whether you are faced with an unexpected tragedy, terrible unforeseen circumstances, trouble coping with the stresses of daily life, struggling with despair of depression, anxiety due to juggling work/life/school/family, trauma, or handling a tumultuous relationship, the truth is, we've all been there. Why? Because we are human. You deserve to be happy and healing is our first step. Ready for change? Let's talk!
Treating Adult Females with Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Borderline Personality Disorder, Relationship Issues (via individual therapy), Familial Issues, ect.
Life certainly isn't easy. Every one of us no matter who we are needs help at one time or another. Whether you are faced with an unexpected tragedy, terrible unforeseen circumstances, trouble coping with the stresses of daily life, struggling with despair of depression, anxiety due to juggling work/life/school/family, trauma, or handling a tumultuous relationship, the truth is, we've all been there. Why? Because we are human. You deserve to be happy and healing is our first step. Ready for change? Let's talk!
(833) 746-5779 View (833) 746-5779
Photo of Jessica Dubey, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Dubey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bloomfield, MI 48302  (Online Only)
Do you experience moods that you have trouble understanding and / or controlling? Do your thoughts or emotions make it challenging to thrive in relationships, work, home, or just life in general? I understand that it can be difficult to cope and enjoy life with these symptoms, and can often be challenging to navigate the healing journey alone. I am a passionate therapist with a specialization in Anxiety, BPD, and mood disorders.
Do you experience moods that you have trouble understanding and / or controlling? Do your thoughts or emotions make it challenging to thrive in relationships, work, home, or just life in general? I understand that it can be difficult to cope and enjoy life with these symptoms, and can often be challenging to navigate the healing journey alone. I am a passionate therapist with a specialization in Anxiety, BPD, and mood disorders.
(586) 238-3606 View (586) 238-3606
Photo of Tzippy Farhy, MA, LCPC, C-PD, Counselor
Tzippy Farhy
Counselor, MA, LCPC, C-PD
Verified Verified
Southfield, MI 48076  (Online Only)
Farhy's clinical interests include anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, and borderline personality disorder.
Mrs. Tzippy Farhy is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, who holds a Masters in Applied Psychology. She has received intensive training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy from The Linehan Institute- Behavioral Tech, as well as certification in Personality Disorders. Mrs. Farhy has worked with diverse populations in broad cultural contexts within community mental health settings for several years prior to currently working in private practice in which she treats young adults and adults facing a variety of mental health challenges.
Farhy's clinical interests include anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, and borderline personality disorder.
Mrs. Tzippy Farhy is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, who holds a Masters in Applied Psychology. She has received intensive training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy from The Linehan Institute- Behavioral Tech, as well as certification in Personality Disorders. Mrs. Farhy has worked with diverse populations in broad cultural contexts within community mental health settings for several years prior to currently working in private practice in which she treats young adults and adults facing a variety of mental health challenges.
(410) 989-4560 View (410) 989-4560
Photo of Megan Schwab, LLPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan Schwab
Licensed Professional Counselor, LLPC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49544
I have experience working with adolescents and adults who struggle with trauma, depression, self-harm, suicidal thoughts and urges, borderline personality disorder, and anxiety.
As a Master’s level clinician I strive to help clients improve their lives and learn new skills, techniques, ways of viewing themselves, and the world around them in a way that may reduce pain and suffering. I frequently use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) to help empower and guide individuals in their healing journey. I believe we are all capable of finding relief, strength, and a new way of perceiving ourselves and our environment, despite the difficult and unique challenges we face.
I have experience working with adolescents and adults who struggle with trauma, depression, self-harm, suicidal thoughts and urges, borderline personality disorder, and anxiety.
As a Master’s level clinician I strive to help clients improve their lives and learn new skills, techniques, ways of viewing themselves, and the world around them in a way that may reduce pain and suffering. I frequently use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) to help empower and guide individuals in their healing journey. I believe we are all capable of finding relief, strength, and a new way of perceiving ourselves and our environment, despite the difficult and unique challenges we face.
(616) 528-9803 View (616) 528-9803
Photo of Sarah Ann Woodward, LMSW , C-DBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Ann Woodward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW , C-DBT
Verified Verified
Monroe, MI 48162  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in the treatment of BPD and utilize DBT.
Sarah Woodward LMSW is a 2017 graduate from the University of Toledo. She holds a Masters's Degree in Social Work and has been working with individuals who have been diagnosed with severe and persistent mental illness for the past 6 years. Specializing in DBT Sarah has experience in working with individuals who have anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorder, and bipolar disorder. In regards to her therapeutic approach: "I believe that the most beneficial part of the therapeutic process is the therapeutic relationship, I practice from a person-centered perspective, we are all unique and so I tailor my therapeutic approa
I specialize in the treatment of BPD and utilize DBT.
Sarah Woodward LMSW is a 2017 graduate from the University of Toledo. She holds a Masters's Degree in Social Work and has been working with individuals who have been diagnosed with severe and persistent mental illness for the past 6 years. Specializing in DBT Sarah has experience in working with individuals who have anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorder, and bipolar disorder. In regards to her therapeutic approach: "I believe that the most beneficial part of the therapeutic process is the therapeutic relationship, I practice from a person-centered perspective, we are all unique and so I tailor my therapeutic approa
(734) 530-3437 View (734) 530-3437
Photo of Victoria Cane - Kalamazoo Evidence Based Therapy, PhD, LP
Kalamazoo Evidence Based Therapy
PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49006  (Online Only)
Kalamazoo Evidence Based Therapy (KEBT) is an individually owned practice bringing together therapists trained in and practicing evidence based therapy including cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy, (DBT), behavioral activation for depression, exposure-based therapies for anxiety, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and radically open DBT (RODBT) for issues of over-control. KEBT is founded by psychologist, Victoria Cane, who specializes in the treatment of emotion dysregulation disorder (a more accurate name for borderline personality disorder), eating disorders, and LGBTQIA-affirmative therapy.
Kalamazoo Evidence Based Therapy (KEBT) is an individually owned practice bringing together therapists trained in and practicing evidence based therapy including cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy, (DBT), behavioral activation for depression, exposure-based therapies for anxiety, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and radically open DBT (RODBT) for issues of over-control. KEBT is founded by psychologist, Victoria Cane, who specializes in the treatment of emotion dysregulation disorder (a more accurate name for borderline personality disorder), eating disorders, and LGBTQIA-affirmative therapy.
(269) 430-2037 View (269) 430-2037
Photo of Brandan Erick Snook, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brandan Erick Snook
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Alma, MI 48801  (Online Only)
I am experienced in working with anxiety, depression, couples and marital issues, teen, BPD, complex trauma as well as personality disorders.
We believe it shouldn’t be so hard to live better. At Harvard Avenue Counseling Services we offer Individual, couples, marital, intensive family, trauma and personality disorder treatment. We start with building a relationship. We help you by having a safe place to process your struggles and developing a plan. We offer safe, specific treatments so you can move forward within you and your families lives. Our passion is for our clients and their family's to find peace and stability to move forward effectively through life. Feel free to reach out today to connect and and schedule an initial consultation.
I am experienced in working with anxiety, depression, couples and marital issues, teen, BPD, complex trauma as well as personality disorders.
We believe it shouldn’t be so hard to live better. At Harvard Avenue Counseling Services we offer Individual, couples, marital, intensive family, trauma and personality disorder treatment. We start with building a relationship. We help you by having a safe place to process your struggles and developing a plan. We offer safe, specific treatments so you can move forward within you and your families lives. Our passion is for our clients and their family's to find peace and stability to move forward effectively through life. Feel free to reach out today to connect and and schedule an initial consultation.
(989) 800-8204 View (989) 800-8204
Photo of Stephanie Hrit, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Hrit
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48304  (Online Only)
Stephanie has immediate telehealth availability! Stephanie has significant experience working with families, adolescents, adults, and couples. Her approach in working with clients is person-centered and solution-focused while creating a safe and supportive environment. Stephanie has extensive experience working with individuals diagnosed with personality disorders such as borderline personality disorder (BPD) as well as individuals with disordered eating.
Stephanie has immediate telehealth availability! Stephanie has significant experience working with families, adolescents, adults, and couples. Her approach in working with clients is person-centered and solution-focused while creating a safe and supportive environment. Stephanie has extensive experience working with individuals diagnosed with personality disorders such as borderline personality disorder (BPD) as well as individuals with disordered eating.
(313) 251-8130 View (313) 251-8130
Photo of Dr. Melanie Mailloux, PhD, MS, LPC, CAADC, C-DBT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Melanie Mailloux
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MS, LPC, CAADC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Waitlist for new clients
I'm currently providing in person and telehealth therapy for people struggling with mental health issues including borderline personality disorder, anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, and grief & loss. Treatment methods used include DBT, CBT, trauma informed care and addiction treatment.
I'm currently providing in person and telehealth therapy for people struggling with mental health issues including borderline personality disorder, anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, and grief & loss. Treatment methods used include DBT, CBT, trauma informed care and addiction treatment.
(313) 355-2330 View (313) 355-2330
Photo of Caitlin Morgan, MA, LLPC, Counselor
Caitlin Morgan
Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
I specialize in ADHD, BPD, and chronic illness.
Finding someone that you feel comfortable being vulnerable with is often a challenge. As a counselor, I encourage you to be your authentic self and fully express your feelings. I will provide a safe space free of judgment in which you can explore your experiences and deepen your understanding of yourself. I often utilize humor, education, and warmth in sessions. My goal is to develop a holistic understanding of your worldview. I want to help you learn how to work with your brain, not against it.
I specialize in ADHD, BPD, and chronic illness.
Finding someone that you feel comfortable being vulnerable with is often a challenge. As a counselor, I encourage you to be your authentic self and fully express your feelings. I will provide a safe space free of judgment in which you can explore your experiences and deepen your understanding of yourself. I often utilize humor, education, and warmth in sessions. My goal is to develop a holistic understanding of your worldview. I want to help you learn how to work with your brain, not against it.
(269) 468-0223 View (269) 468-0223
Photo of Jennifer Lewis - Transcending Hope Institute, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Transcending Hope Institute
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southgate, MI 48195
We offer mental health services to address depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar disorders, borderline personality disorders, substance use, and more.
Our focus is to offer hope, help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan to help you build a life worth living.
We offer mental health services to address depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar disorders, borderline personality disorders, substance use, and more.
Our focus is to offer hope, help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan to help you build a life worth living.
(313) 217-3516 View (313) 217-3516
Photo of Victoria Kwater - Tri-County Mental Health, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tri-County Mental Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Freeland, MI 48623
Not accepting new clients
Victoria specializes in depression, anxiety, trauma and Borderline Personality Disorder.
Tri-County Mental Health is home to 4 wonderful therapists (LMSW) and 1 Office Administrator. In addition to managing TCMH, Victoria Kwater, is also a clinical social worker and has been treating individuals struggling with mental health for over 10 years. Amy Oleksy, has been helping individuals since 2013, and has an interest in our connection to nature and using holistic means to assist with being and feeling well. Vanessa Fotopoulos, is a dedicated therapist whose personal journey has fueled her passion for reproductive mental health and wellness. Nicole Micho, has a strong passion for assisting clients with a history of trauma.
Victoria specializes in depression, anxiety, trauma and Borderline Personality Disorder.
Tri-County Mental Health is home to 4 wonderful therapists (LMSW) and 1 Office Administrator. In addition to managing TCMH, Victoria Kwater, is also a clinical social worker and has been treating individuals struggling with mental health for over 10 years. Amy Oleksy, has been helping individuals since 2013, and has an interest in our connection to nature and using holistic means to assist with being and feeling well. Vanessa Fotopoulos, is a dedicated therapist whose personal journey has fueled her passion for reproductive mental health and wellness. Nicole Micho, has a strong passion for assisting clients with a history of trauma.
(989) 282-8292 View (989) 282-8292
Photo of Heidi Stamper, LPC, Counselor
Heidi Stamper
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I am currently accepting BPD patients and PMAD patients.
When speaking with people about finding a therapist, I like to compare the process to finding the right hairdresser or making a new friend: If someone doesn’t match what you’re looking for or help you envision and plan for a healthier or more fulfilling life, then move on to the next one! Therapy is very personal, and I take a person-centered approach. My own experiences as a survivor of postpartum mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) - as well as firsthand knowledge of and experience in coping with family adjustment issues and addiction in loved ones – provide me the insight needed to have meaningful sessions with my clients.
I am currently accepting BPD patients and PMAD patients.
When speaking with people about finding a therapist, I like to compare the process to finding the right hairdresser or making a new friend: If someone doesn’t match what you’re looking for or help you envision and plan for a healthier or more fulfilling life, then move on to the next one! Therapy is very personal, and I take a person-centered approach. My own experiences as a survivor of postpartum mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) - as well as firsthand knowledge of and experience in coping with family adjustment issues and addiction in loved ones – provide me the insight needed to have meaningful sessions with my clients.
(248) 600-4361 View (248) 600-4361
Photo of Jessica Lynn Wortinger, MS, LLP, CAADC, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Jessica Lynn Wortinger
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MS, LLP, CAADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Livonia, MI 48152
Not accepting new clients
I believe that every individual travels their own path and that no two paths look exactly the same. I am here to both walk your path with you and serve as a tour guide along the way. I thrive working with clients who are seeking this journey and looking to build a relationship that will assist them in gaining insight, skills and passion to achieve their most fulfilling life. Client's who are struggling with borderline personality disorder, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, self-harm, interpersonal struggles, adjustment difficulties, addictions, grief and loss, and trauma are well-served by my experience and skill set.
I believe that every individual travels their own path and that no two paths look exactly the same. I am here to both walk your path with you and serve as a tour guide along the way. I thrive working with clients who are seeking this journey and looking to build a relationship that will assist them in gaining insight, skills and passion to achieve their most fulfilling life. Client's who are struggling with borderline personality disorder, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, self-harm, interpersonal struggles, adjustment difficulties, addictions, grief and loss, and trauma are well-served by my experience and skill set.
(734) 666-0713 View (734) 666-0713
Photo of Carissa Martin, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carissa Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lansing, MI 48911
I also have specialized experience in working with people who have been diagnosed with borderline personality disorder, schizophrenia spectrum disorders, bipolar disorder, and more.
My ideal client is someone who wants to make steps to change their life for the better. What "better" looks like depends on their needs, and we will work together to find it. They would be someone who needs a helping hand and support to reach their goals and get through life's difficult times. This person may be seeking out therapy to find support that they don't have in their life already or to bolster their existing support system.
I also have specialized experience in working with people who have been diagnosed with borderline personality disorder, schizophrenia spectrum disorders, bipolar disorder, and more.
My ideal client is someone who wants to make steps to change their life for the better. What "better" looks like depends on their needs, and we will work together to find it. They would be someone who needs a helping hand and support to reach their goals and get through life's difficult times. This person may be seeking out therapy to find support that they don't have in their life already or to bolster their existing support system.
(517) 220-0546 View (517) 220-0546
Photo of Samantha Zeis, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Zeis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Caro, MI 48723
I have experience providing therapy with those who struggle with the following: Emotional regulation & management, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, trauma related issues, stress related issues, college issues, family conflict, transitional/adjustment issues, anxiety and depression.
Do you feel like your emotions are intense? Are you having a hard time regulating your emotions or are you feeling confused by your emotions? I strive to create authentic connections with my clients and will ensure a warm, safe environment to enhance a trusting relationship to speak about any struggles you may be facing. I utilize a number of different skills to best fit your individual needs. I am DBT informed, meaning I have the skills to work with individuals who may feel their emotions very intensely. I believe that anyone can benefit from therapy when they find the "right fit" therapist.
I have experience providing therapy with those who struggle with the following: Emotional regulation & management, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, trauma related issues, stress related issues, college issues, family conflict, transitional/adjustment issues, anxiety and depression.
Do you feel like your emotions are intense? Are you having a hard time regulating your emotions or are you feeling confused by your emotions? I strive to create authentic connections with my clients and will ensure a warm, safe environment to enhance a trusting relationship to speak about any struggles you may be facing. I utilize a number of different skills to best fit your individual needs. I am DBT informed, meaning I have the skills to work with individuals who may feel their emotions very intensely. I believe that anyone can benefit from therapy when they find the "right fit" therapist.
(231) 545-4317 View (231) 545-4317
Photo of Sarah Gregg, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Gregg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
I specialize in the assessment and treatment of depression, anxiety, borderline personality and adjustment disorders.
Difficulty managing intense emotions, inability to cope with distress, and impulsive (sometimes unsafe) behaviors can have a profound impact on your quality of life. I want to help you learn constructive ways of coping with distress and painful emotions that do not involve engaging in problem behaviors. You have identified some things you would like to change, but reaching out for support can be scary. I create a comfortable, nonjudgmental and validating environment that continues to help me build strong connections with my clients.
I specialize in the assessment and treatment of depression, anxiety, borderline personality and adjustment disorders.
Difficulty managing intense emotions, inability to cope with distress, and impulsive (sometimes unsafe) behaviors can have a profound impact on your quality of life. I want to help you learn constructive ways of coping with distress and painful emotions that do not involve engaging in problem behaviors. You have identified some things you would like to change, but reaching out for support can be scary. I create a comfortable, nonjudgmental and validating environment that continues to help me build strong connections with my clients.
(734) 548-9291 View (734) 548-9291
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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.