Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in North Carolina

Photo of Rosie Easter, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rosie Easter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
Waitlist for new clients
My practice focus is in supporting adolescents and adults through individual and group therapy with needs including adjusting to stress and changes in life, depression, anxiety, Borderline Personality Disorder and traits, healing from the impacts of trauma and traumatic invalidation, and interpersonal and relational stressors. I am passionate about empowering and collaborating with my clients to build their most fulfilling life through increasing insight and mindful awareness into their emotional wounds and lived experience, to grow self love and acceptance, and build relationships that are healthy and affirming.
My practice focus is in supporting adolescents and adults through individual and group therapy with needs including adjusting to stress and changes in life, depression, anxiety, Borderline Personality Disorder and traits, healing from the impacts of trauma and traumatic invalidation, and interpersonal and relational stressors. I am passionate about empowering and collaborating with my clients to build their most fulfilling life through increasing insight and mindful awareness into their emotional wounds and lived experience, to grow self love and acceptance, and build relationships that are healthy and affirming.
(704) 728-0672 View (704) 728-0672
Photo of Bethany Lindemuth, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bethany Lindemuth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Holly Springs, NC 27540
Now accepting new clients for in-person and video sessions. I work with teens and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, disordered eating, life transitions, and borderline personality disorder. You’re tired of being depressed or anxious all the time. On the outside, you look put together; on the inside, you feel like it’s all falling apart. You want to make changes, but you’re not sure where to start. And everything feels difficult. Therapy can help.
Now accepting new clients for in-person and video sessions. I work with teens and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, disordered eating, life transitions, and borderline personality disorder. You’re tired of being depressed or anxious all the time. On the outside, you look put together; on the inside, you feel like it’s all falling apart. You want to make changes, but you’re not sure where to start. And everything feels difficult. Therapy can help.
(919) 343-9895 View (919) 343-9895
Photo of Melissa D. Tuttle - Guilford Counseling, PLLC, LCSW, DBTC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Guilford Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DBTC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27408
Waitlist for new clients
DBT is especially effective in providing relief from borderline personality disorder, self-harm, depression, and patterns of behavior that get in the way of building a life worth living.
NOTE: I am not current accepting new clients, but other Guilford Counseling therapists have openings! If past traumas are interfering with your life, if you struggle with managing your emotions, or if you have patterns of self-harm and suicidal thoughts, I'd love to meet with you. People I work with have usually tried therapy before, but found that their progress stalled out or bogged down. If that sounds familiar, reach out and give it another try.
DBT is especially effective in providing relief from borderline personality disorder, self-harm, depression, and patterns of behavior that get in the way of building a life worth living.
NOTE: I am not current accepting new clients, but other Guilford Counseling therapists have openings! If past traumas are interfering with your life, if you struggle with managing your emotions, or if you have patterns of self-harm and suicidal thoughts, I'd love to meet with you. People I work with have usually tried therapy before, but found that their progress stalled out or bogged down. If that sounds familiar, reach out and give it another try.
(336) 895-1849 View (336) 895-1849
Photo of Brianna Garcia, LCSWA, LSSW
Brianna Garcia
LCSW Associate, LCSWA, LSSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27408
I have worked with those navigating through: grief, trauma, depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, interpersonal conflicts and ineffective communication, low self-esteem and poor self-image, and identity discovery and difficulties.
Coming from a humanistic perspective, I value the power of kindness and compassion. Using the liberation psychology framework, I believe that by acknowledging the very real impacts and limitations that exist from various systems, we can reframe narratives of our lives to better understand and accept ourselves and discover our own autonomy and confidence. I do not judge anyone for being who they are. I only seek to assist in another’s journey of self-discovery and self-actualization by guiding them on the healthiest and safest path that they have chosen for themselves.
I have worked with those navigating through: grief, trauma, depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, interpersonal conflicts and ineffective communication, low self-esteem and poor self-image, and identity discovery and difficulties.
Coming from a humanistic perspective, I value the power of kindness and compassion. Using the liberation psychology framework, I believe that by acknowledging the very real impacts and limitations that exist from various systems, we can reframe narratives of our lives to better understand and accept ourselves and discover our own autonomy and confidence. I do not judge anyone for being who they are. I only seek to assist in another’s journey of self-discovery and self-actualization by guiding them on the healthiest and safest path that they have chosen for themselves.
(336) 891-9010 View (336) 891-9010
Photo of Eric Guendner, LPA, LCAS, Psychological Associate
Eric Guendner
Psychological Associate, LPA, LCAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28405
I use the specialist rather than the generalist model of care. I am board certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy and certified in Prolonged Exposure for PTSD and maintain up to date continuing education, seek any needed supervision, and keep up with relevant research findings in those areas. As such, I am particularly qualified to work with clients who seek treatment for issues related to Borderline Personality Disorder, Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Substance Use Disorders and PTSD.. I believe that if you are suffering from a specific issue, you deserve to receive the appropriate care for that issue.
I use the specialist rather than the generalist model of care. I am board certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy and certified in Prolonged Exposure for PTSD and maintain up to date continuing education, seek any needed supervision, and keep up with relevant research findings in those areas. As such, I am particularly qualified to work with clients who seek treatment for issues related to Borderline Personality Disorder, Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Substance Use Disorders and PTSD.. I believe that if you are suffering from a specific issue, you deserve to receive the appropriate care for that issue.
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Photo of Brian Robertson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brian Robertson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28209
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with experience as an EMDR therapist specializing in trauma, dissociative disorders, and borderline personality disorder. To better serve those I work with, I am currently only taking new cases related to these specialties. I also have additional experience in treating victims of sex trafficking, military combat trauma, and victims of ritual abuse and programming (cults). I am a member of the International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation, as well as the ISSTD Special Interest Group for the Treatment of Organized and Extreme Abuse.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with experience as an EMDR therapist specializing in trauma, dissociative disorders, and borderline personality disorder. To better serve those I work with, I am currently only taking new cases related to these specialties. I also have additional experience in treating victims of sex trafficking, military combat trauma, and victims of ritual abuse and programming (cults). I am a member of the International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation, as well as the ISSTD Special Interest Group for the Treatment of Organized and Extreme Abuse.
(704) 313-1632 View (704) 313-1632
Photo of Taylor Cummins(Vinson), LCMHC
Taylor Cummins(Vinson)
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210
My name is Taylor Cummins Vinson, and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC, NCC) with six years of clinical experience. My counseling experience includes outpatient counseling for clients who have experienced recent trauma, experienced domestic violence, or have been diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder. I typically utilize Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectical (DBT), and Client-Centered Therapy during sessions and create an environment of positive regard and empathy. I believe goal setting is a collaborative process between the therapist and the client.
My name is Taylor Cummins Vinson, and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC, NCC) with six years of clinical experience. My counseling experience includes outpatient counseling for clients who have experienced recent trauma, experienced domestic violence, or have been diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder. I typically utilize Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectical (DBT), and Client-Centered Therapy during sessions and create an environment of positive regard and empathy. I believe goal setting is a collaborative process between the therapist and the client.
(704) 610-6259 View (704) 610-6259
Photo of Regina (Gina) Hales, LCMHC, LCASA
Regina (Gina) Hales
LCMHC, LCASA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Zebulon, NC 27597  (Online Only)
I have held a long passion for mental health counselling since I was young. I am certified in DBT which treats Borderline Personality Disorder, self harm, PTSD, suicidal behavior, substance use, depression, anxiety and eating disorders. My undergrad is in Psychology to better understand human thoughts, feelings, and behavior. I am driven to answer not just why people act in certain ways but also how they can improve their situations, thoughts and mental well-being. I aspired to become a therapist to help people overcome challenges and to be able to live their best life. My greatest passion is for adolescents.
I have held a long passion for mental health counselling since I was young. I am certified in DBT which treats Borderline Personality Disorder, self harm, PTSD, suicidal behavior, substance use, depression, anxiety and eating disorders. My undergrad is in Psychology to better understand human thoughts, feelings, and behavior. I am driven to answer not just why people act in certain ways but also how they can improve their situations, thoughts and mental well-being. I aspired to become a therapist to help people overcome challenges and to be able to live their best life. My greatest passion is for adolescents.
(919) 944-4423 View (919) 944-4423
Kristi Knox
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28227
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) specializing in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for the treatment of Borderline Personality Disorder ( BPD).
I have a vested interest and the expertise of 20+ years to help patients improve self-esteem, self-worth, & mood symptoms, as well as to navigate the complexities of relationships and trauma. Whether you have been in therapy extensively throughout the years or are a beginning client, you may have emotional, interpersonal, thinking and behavioral patterns you would like to make significant and lasting changes to. This is why treatment with me spans several research based approaches, including skills acquisition, accessing internal resources for bringing about change, and accessing and changing neural networks to bring about healing.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) specializing in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for the treatment of Borderline Personality Disorder ( BPD).
I have a vested interest and the expertise of 20+ years to help patients improve self-esteem, self-worth, & mood symptoms, as well as to navigate the complexities of relationships and trauma. Whether you have been in therapy extensively throughout the years or are a beginning client, you may have emotional, interpersonal, thinking and behavioral patterns you would like to make significant and lasting changes to. This is why treatment with me spans several research based approaches, including skills acquisition, accessing internal resources for bringing about change, and accessing and changing neural networks to bring about healing.
(704) 753-8849 View (704) 753-8849
Photo of Sara P. Culpepper - Peri Counseling, PLLC, MS, LCMHC, LCAS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Peri Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Greenville, NC 27858
I have a special interest in working with adolescents and adults diagnosed with borderline personality disorder and/or eating disorders.
If you're unable to reach your goals because of negative behaviors and your emotions are out of control, or if you simply want a safe environment to express your feelings, then professional counseling is the answer. With my support, clients learn to replace negativity with positivity and lead more serene and emotionally stable lives. I also help clients gain freedom by teaching actionable skills to change their detrimental core beliefs, strengthen relationships, and maintain healthy boundaries. An emphasis is placed on helping people learn to build resiliency by releasing shame and increasing self-esteem.
I have a special interest in working with adolescents and adults diagnosed with borderline personality disorder and/or eating disorders.
If you're unable to reach your goals because of negative behaviors and your emotions are out of control, or if you simply want a safe environment to express your feelings, then professional counseling is the answer. With my support, clients learn to replace negativity with positivity and lead more serene and emotionally stable lives. I also help clients gain freedom by teaching actionable skills to change their detrimental core beliefs, strengthen relationships, and maintain healthy boundaries. An emphasis is placed on helping people learn to build resiliency by releasing shame and increasing self-esteem.
(252) 368-8247 View (252) 368-8247
Photo of Taylor Cummins(Vinson), LCMHC
Taylor Cummins(Vinson)
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Burlington, NC 27217
My name is Taylor Cummins Vinson, and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC, NCC) with six years of clinical experience. My counseling experience includes outpatient counseling for clients who have experienced recent trauma, experienced domestic violence, or have been diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder. I typically utilize Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectical (DBT), and Client-Centered Therapy during sessions and create an environment of positive regard and empathy. I believe goal setting is a collaborative process between the therapist and the client.
My name is Taylor Cummins Vinson, and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC, NCC) with six years of clinical experience. My counseling experience includes outpatient counseling for clients who have experienced recent trauma, experienced domestic violence, or have been diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder. I typically utilize Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectical (DBT), and Client-Centered Therapy during sessions and create an environment of positive regard and empathy. I believe goal setting is a collaborative process between the therapist and the client.
(980) 332-6800 View (980) 332-6800
Photo of Lisa Wagoner Hairston, MS, LCMHC, CRC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa Wagoner Hairston
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC, CRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27127  (Online Only)
I'm happy you stopped at my profile! This is a step towards growth and healing. It's not always easy to seek guidance and support. Life can be difficult and a bit of a rollercoaster ride at times. My goal is to meet and accept you where you are and help you navigate this time in your life. Change is possible! Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Autism, and Trauma are some of my areas of focus with DBT, CBT, and ACT being my main treatment modalities. I offer support for children, teens, adults, families, and couples. I also offer support for loved ones of someone with Borderline Personality Disorder and other diagnoses.
I'm happy you stopped at my profile! This is a step towards growth and healing. It's not always easy to seek guidance and support. Life can be difficult and a bit of a rollercoaster ride at times. My goal is to meet and accept you where you are and help you navigate this time in your life. Change is possible! Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Autism, and Trauma are some of my areas of focus with DBT, CBT, and ACT being my main treatment modalities. I offer support for children, teens, adults, families, and couples. I also offer support for loved ones of someone with Borderline Personality Disorder and other diagnoses.
(336) 439-3254 View (336) 439-3254
Photo of Amparo Penny, MA, LCMHC, C-DBT, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amparo Penny
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, C-DBT, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
Waitlist for new clients
You are allowed to be a masterpiece and a work in progress at the same time - Sophia Bush. Are you at war with your emotions, food, or your body? Well, that's just the tip of the iceberg, and I invite you to take you on a journey below the surface. I am a DBT-certified, trauma-certified, and Intuitive Eating certified therapist and I see therapy as a journey we take together; you’re the driver and I'm the helpful passenger :) I have been a licensed therapist for 17 years, supporting people with eating disorders, issues with emotion regulation, body image issues, and borderline personality disorder. You're never "too much" for me.
You are allowed to be a masterpiece and a work in progress at the same time - Sophia Bush. Are you at war with your emotions, food, or your body? Well, that's just the tip of the iceberg, and I invite you to take you on a journey below the surface. I am a DBT-certified, trauma-certified, and Intuitive Eating certified therapist and I see therapy as a journey we take together; you’re the driver and I'm the helpful passenger :) I have been a licensed therapist for 17 years, supporting people with eating disorders, issues with emotion regulation, body image issues, and borderline personality disorder. You're never "too much" for me.
(828) 373-2537 View (828) 373-2537
Photo of Brian Robertson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brian Robertson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28209
My name is Brian Robertson, but most people just call me Rob. I am an EMDR therapist specializing in treating complex trauma, dissociative disorders, and borderline personality disorder. To best treat those with whom I work with, I am only taking new cases that have complex trauma. I also have experience in treating victims of sex trafficking, military combat trauma, and victims of ritual abuse and programming (cults). I am also a member of the International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation, as well as a member of the ISSTD Special Interest Group for the Treatment of Organized and Extreme Abuse.
My name is Brian Robertson, but most people just call me Rob. I am an EMDR therapist specializing in treating complex trauma, dissociative disorders, and borderline personality disorder. To best treat those with whom I work with, I am only taking new cases that have complex trauma. I also have experience in treating victims of sex trafficking, military combat trauma, and victims of ritual abuse and programming (cults). I am also a member of the International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation, as well as a member of the ISSTD Special Interest Group for the Treatment of Organized and Extreme Abuse.
(704) 610-0271 x1723 View (704) 610-0271 x1723
Photo of Alixandra Ross, LCMHCA, Counselor
Alixandra Ross
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
Hello! I'm Alixandra, a Clinical Mental Health Counselor with an M.A. from Wake Forest University ('23). My passion lies in providing compassionate support to teens and adults under 45 facing challenges including, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, self-harm, suicidality BPD, and life adjustments. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients can feel heard and supported as they navigate their unique journeys toward balance and self-empowerment. I tailor my approach to meet each client where they are, offering practical skills and genuine empathy. My goal is to empower others to embrace their authentic selves.
Hello! I'm Alixandra, a Clinical Mental Health Counselor with an M.A. from Wake Forest University ('23). My passion lies in providing compassionate support to teens and adults under 45 facing challenges including, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, self-harm, suicidality BPD, and life adjustments. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients can feel heard and supported as they navigate their unique journeys toward balance and self-empowerment. I tailor my approach to meet each client where they are, offering practical skills and genuine empathy. My goal is to empower others to embrace their authentic selves.
(984) 265-7730 x102 View (984) 265-7730 x102
Photo of Imani White, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Imani White
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27607
Hi! I'm a Black female therapist who deeply understands the challenges faced when dealing with societal pressures, trauma—be it generational, historical, racial, or relationship-based-and the general stressors of life. Whether you're grappling with Borderline Personality Disorder ( BPD), anxiety, trauma, PTSD, depression, chronic health issues, or experiencing limited or no contact with your parents, know that you are not alone, and I'm here to help. Think of our sessions together as a safe space, a tool to navigate life's ups and downs. I believe in interrupting negative thoughts and feelings that chip away at our self-worth.
Hi! I'm a Black female therapist who deeply understands the challenges faced when dealing with societal pressures, trauma—be it generational, historical, racial, or relationship-based-and the general stressors of life. Whether you're grappling with Borderline Personality Disorder ( BPD), anxiety, trauma, PTSD, depression, chronic health issues, or experiencing limited or no contact with your parents, know that you are not alone, and I'm here to help. Think of our sessions together as a safe space, a tool to navigate life's ups and downs. I believe in interrupting negative thoughts and feelings that chip away at our self-worth.
(919) 736-6291 View (919) 736-6291
Photo of Raven Ransom, MS, LCMHCA, Counselor
Raven Ransom
Counselor, MS, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502
I am currently accepting new clients who require support for post-traumatic, borderline personality, anxiety disorders, and attachment wounds. As a psychotherapist, my clinical mission is to provide individuals seeking mental health assistance with a safe, confidential, and supportive environment. I am committed to helping all my clients achieve their goals, whether it be overcoming past traumas, managing anxiety and depression, or simply improving communication skills.
I am currently accepting new clients who require support for post-traumatic, borderline personality, anxiety disorders, and attachment wounds. As a psychotherapist, my clinical mission is to provide individuals seeking mental health assistance with a safe, confidential, and supportive environment. I am committed to helping all my clients achieve their goals, whether it be overcoming past traumas, managing anxiety and depression, or simply improving communication skills.
(919) 372-4237 View (919) 372-4237
Photo of Taylor Ross Krumroy - Krumroy Counseling Group, LCSW
Krumroy Counseling Group
LCSW
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27401
We are a full treatment center with therapists who specialize in our own areas for whatever your specific need may be. Are you struggling with emotional mood swings, been told you are bipolar or out of control, concerned about "adulting" and learning how to build confidence coming out of college? Then our therapist Taylor Krumroy may be a great fit for you. Taylor specializes in working with personality disorders (specifically Borderline Personality Disorders) and has great success in helping to develop better emotional control, improving interpersonal relationships, and creating effective boundaries with those relationships that have a bit of toxicity to them.
We are a full treatment center with therapists who specialize in our own areas for whatever your specific need may be. Are you struggling with emotional mood swings, been told you are bipolar or out of control, concerned about "adulting" and learning how to build confidence coming out of college? Then our therapist Taylor Krumroy may be a great fit for you. Taylor specializes in working with personality disorders (specifically Borderline Personality Disorders) and has great success in helping to develop better emotional control, improving interpersonal relationships, and creating effective boundaries with those relationships that have a bit of toxicity to them.
(336) 664-8231 View (336) 664-8231
Photo of Karen M Erikson, PhD, Psychologist
Karen M Erikson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27713
I am a cognitive-behavioral therapist, and I have expertise in the use of mindfulness-based treatments including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and the treatment of trauma. I see a wide variety of clients in my practice, including individuals struggling with symptoms of borderline personality disorder ( BPD), depression, and anxiety disorders. I also work with survivors of trauma, including physical and sexual abuse and assault. I believe that effective treatment begins with a collaborative relationship with my clients.
I am a cognitive-behavioral therapist, and I have expertise in the use of mindfulness-based treatments including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and the treatment of trauma. I see a wide variety of clients in my practice, including individuals struggling with symptoms of borderline personality disorder ( BPD), depression, and anxiety disorders. I also work with survivors of trauma, including physical and sexual abuse and assault. I believe that effective treatment begins with a collaborative relationship with my clients.
(919) 351-1569 View (919) 351-1569
Photo of Myriam Rabaste - Neuronnection Counseling, PLLC, LPC, EMDR II, Counselor
Neuronnection Counseling, PLLC
Counselor, LPC, EMDR II
Verified Verified
Mint Hill, NC 28227
Are you struggling with trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, BPD, or cultural challenges? Together, we’ll create a safe, nurturing space to explore your experiences and build resilience.
Neuronnection Counseling is a privately owned practice that guides individuals through their healing journeys. My mission is to create a warm and supportive environment where you can feel safe to explore your experiences and rediscover your inner strength and capacity for self-healing and growth. With over 18 years of experience, I specialize in helping adults and adolescents who are dealing with trauma, grief, anxiety, difficult & overwhelming emotions, BPD, and cultural challenges.
Are you struggling with trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, BPD, or cultural challenges? Together, we’ll create a safe, nurturing space to explore your experiences and build resilience.
Neuronnection Counseling is a privately owned practice that guides individuals through their healing journeys. My mission is to create a warm and supportive environment where you can feel safe to explore your experiences and rediscover your inner strength and capacity for self-healing and growth. With over 18 years of experience, I specialize in helping adults and adolescents who are dealing with trauma, grief, anxiety, difficult & overwhelming emotions, BPD, and cultural challenges.
(980) 291-4993 View (980) 291-4993
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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.