Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in Virginia

Photo of Dr. Amanda N Trent, PsyD, LCP, Psychologist
Dr. Amanda N Trent
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Williamsburg, VA 23188  (Online Only)
I specialize in assessing and treating Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other trauma-based symptoms, as well as Borderline Personality traits.
I typically work with people who have experienced some type of traumatic event or events, either recently or from childhood. They are tired of being bullied by their own thoughts and emotions and not being able to experience a fulfilling life or enjoy intimate relationships. Being in Hampton Roads, I have worked with many military families who have their own unique stressors and traumas. I also love working with other mental health clinicians who may need their own support for managing mental health concerns, relational conflict, or coping with work-related burn out and compassion fatigue.
I specialize in assessing and treating Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other trauma-based symptoms, as well as Borderline Personality traits.
I typically work with people who have experienced some type of traumatic event or events, either recently or from childhood. They are tired of being bullied by their own thoughts and emotions and not being able to experience a fulfilling life or enjoy intimate relationships. Being in Hampton Roads, I have worked with many military families who have their own unique stressors and traumas. I also love working with other mental health clinicians who may need their own support for managing mental health concerns, relational conflict, or coping with work-related burn out and compassion fatigue.
(757) 210-5723 View (757) 210-5723
Photo of Sarah B Mulhaul, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah B Mulhaul
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
I am Foundationally trained in DBT through BehaviorTech to treat BPD, Suicidal Ideation and self harm.
I specialize in working with adults and young women who have experienced traumatic events (childhood sexual abuse, rape, domestic violence, physical abuse, car accidents, military trauma, etc) and are experiencing trauma symptoms. The traumatic event may also lead to emotional dysregulation, self harm behaviors, hospitalizations and/or a diagnosis of Borderline Personality Disorder, among many other disorders. I also have a passion for working with veterans of post 9/11 wars who have a diagnosis of PTSD. My goal is to help others find and achieve their "life worth living".
I am Foundationally trained in DBT through BehaviorTech to treat BPD, Suicidal Ideation and self harm.
I specialize in working with adults and young women who have experienced traumatic events (childhood sexual abuse, rape, domestic violence, physical abuse, car accidents, military trauma, etc) and are experiencing trauma symptoms. The traumatic event may also lead to emotional dysregulation, self harm behaviors, hospitalizations and/or a diagnosis of Borderline Personality Disorder, among many other disorders. I also have a passion for working with veterans of post 9/11 wars who have a diagnosis of PTSD. My goal is to help others find and achieve their "life worth living".
(571) 496-8509 View (571) 496-8509
Photo of Alix Price, PsyD, Psychologist
Alix Price
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Williamsburg, VA 23188
Dr. Alexandra ("Alix") Price is a clinical psychologist who has more than 16 years of experience assessing and treating various mental health diagnoses. She believes in holistic recovery and is particularly passionate about the importance of connection within the therapy relationship. Dr. Price works with adults who are struggling with adjustment disorders, depression, bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders, borderline personality disorder, grief, life transition problems, women's issues, stress management, and much more.
Dr. Alexandra ("Alix") Price is a clinical psychologist who has more than 16 years of experience assessing and treating various mental health diagnoses. She believes in holistic recovery and is particularly passionate about the importance of connection within the therapy relationship. Dr. Price works with adults who are struggling with adjustment disorders, depression, bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders, borderline personality disorder, grief, life transition problems, women's issues, stress management, and much more.
(757) 418-6443 View (757) 418-6443
Photo of Carmen Greiner - Lighthouse Counseling of Fredericksburg, PLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lighthouse Counseling of Fredericksburg, PLC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lighthouse Counseling specializes in providing quality treatment to gay/lesbian/transgender/gender diverse persons, those whose substance use is causing problems, and those with emotion regulation problems including coping with Borderline Personality Disorder.
Lighthouse Counseling of Fredericksburg, PLC is a group practice committed to working with those who are suffering, marginalized, and feeling like no one understands. So many times, we all struggle to verbalize and contend with emotional difficulties and finding someone to walk that path with you, can be healing and hopeful. We strive to make our practice “A Place to find Hope” using evidence-based therapeutic interventions provided in a compassionate and validating environment.
Lighthouse Counseling specializes in providing quality treatment to gay/lesbian/transgender/gender diverse persons, those whose substance use is causing problems, and those with emotion regulation problems including coping with Borderline Personality Disorder.
Lighthouse Counseling of Fredericksburg, PLC is a group practice committed to working with those who are suffering, marginalized, and feeling like no one understands. So many times, we all struggle to verbalize and contend with emotional difficulties and finding someone to walk that path with you, can be healing and hopeful. We strive to make our practice “A Place to find Hope” using evidence-based therapeutic interventions provided in a compassionate and validating environment.
(540) 469-5033 View (540) 469-5033
Photo of Cloey Bibbs, MS, NCC
Cloey Bibbs
Resident in Counseling, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23229
I have experience with GAD, MDD, BPD, PTSD, low self-esteem, navigating life transitions, trauma, relationship conflict, concerns with body image, etc.
Hi there! My name is Cloey Bibbs. If you are looking for a space to feel acknowledged, accepted, understood, and empowered, then welcome! I am here to help you find your own sense of self-worth, develop a different and uplifting perspective on life, and become a master of navigating your life. I believe that it is a privilege for me to be able to learn everything about you. I want to know your pets’ names, what brings you joy, your hobbies, etc.
I have experience with GAD, MDD, BPD, PTSD, low self-esteem, navigating life transitions, trauma, relationship conflict, concerns with body image, etc.
Hi there! My name is Cloey Bibbs. If you are looking for a space to feel acknowledged, accepted, understood, and empowered, then welcome! I am here to help you find your own sense of self-worth, develop a different and uplifting perspective on life, and become a master of navigating your life. I believe that it is a privilege for me to be able to learn everything about you. I want to know your pets’ names, what brings you joy, your hobbies, etc.
(804) 570-2416 View (804) 570-2416
Photo of Robyn D'Reaux-Rodgers, Pre-Licensed Professional
Robyn D'Reaux-Rodgers
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23228
With over 25 years experience as a therapist, I understand the importance of finding a welcoming space for therapy. Often people cope with stress in ways that can cause long-term problems. Whether you struggle with instability in your relationships, have mood swings, or addiction issues, therapy can help you learn more effective ways of coping, allowing you to be more effective and reduce suffering in your life. I specialize in treating individuals with various mental health concerns, including borderline personality disorder ( BPD), addiction, LGBTQIA+ related issues, depression, OCT, trauma, and/or anxiety.
With over 25 years experience as a therapist, I understand the importance of finding a welcoming space for therapy. Often people cope with stress in ways that can cause long-term problems. Whether you struggle with instability in your relationships, have mood swings, or addiction issues, therapy can help you learn more effective ways of coping, allowing you to be more effective and reduce suffering in your life. I specialize in treating individuals with various mental health concerns, including borderline personality disorder ( BPD), addiction, LGBTQIA+ related issues, depression, OCT, trauma, and/or anxiety.
(804) 331-6832 View (804) 331-6832
Photo of Sandra Lee Borden, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sandra Lee Borden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chesapeake, VA 23320
I have 26 years experience helping adults achieve health and wholeness specializing in PTSD, trauma and abuse, Borderline Personality Disorder, Depression, Anxiety and Addictions.
My ideal client is an adult who wants to be able to more effectively manage or overcome the challenges that have caused them emotional and or mental pain so that they may be able to experience life more abundantly.
I have 26 years experience helping adults achieve health and wholeness specializing in PTSD, trauma and abuse, Borderline Personality Disorder, Depression, Anxiety and Addictions.
My ideal client is an adult who wants to be able to more effectively manage or overcome the challenges that have caused them emotional and or mental pain so that they may be able to experience life more abundantly.
(757) 401-6372 View (757) 401-6372
Photo of Katie Egan, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katie Egan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22046
Are you looking for someone to listen to you when it feels like no one else will? Therapy is a wonderful and safe place to discuss life’s problems, seek closure, and work through diagnoses, no matter what they may be. I hold the notion that all people are inherently good and should be given unconditional positive regard in a therapy setting. Through a collaborative relationship built on mutual trust and respect, I can help you on your journey to recovering and rebuilding. My areas of specialty are Borderline Personality Disorder, manipulative relationships, and Anxiety related disorders.
Are you looking for someone to listen to you when it feels like no one else will? Therapy is a wonderful and safe place to discuss life’s problems, seek closure, and work through diagnoses, no matter what they may be. I hold the notion that all people are inherently good and should be given unconditional positive regard in a therapy setting. Through a collaborative relationship built on mutual trust and respect, I can help you on your journey to recovering and rebuilding. My areas of specialty are Borderline Personality Disorder, manipulative relationships, and Anxiety related disorders.
(571) 339-5234 View (571) 339-5234
Photo of Ashley Conzel, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Ashley Conzel
Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22216  (Online Only)
I specialize in trauma, codependency and familial enmeshment, and Borderline Personality Disorder.
I see adults who have historically experienced unstable relationships and find themselves in uncomfortable relationship dynamics. I work with clients to provide information about trauma responses and replace self-sabotaging behaviors with adaptive coping strategies. My skillset is in working with people who have symptoms of personality disorders and those who have had difficulty safely expressing their emotions in the past. When people gain insight into their emotions and behaviors, positive changes occur.
I specialize in trauma, codependency and familial enmeshment, and Borderline Personality Disorder.
I see adults who have historically experienced unstable relationships and find themselves in uncomfortable relationship dynamics. I work with clients to provide information about trauma responses and replace self-sabotaging behaviors with adaptive coping strategies. My skillset is in working with people who have symptoms of personality disorders and those who have had difficulty safely expressing their emotions in the past. When people gain insight into their emotions and behaviors, positive changes occur.
(703) 420-5412 View (703) 420-5412
Photo of Coty Alan Mills, LCSW, CSAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Coty Alan Mills
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Williamsburg, VA 23185
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked with several populations to include: addiction, adults, adolescence, depression, families, couples, anxiety, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder and borderline personality disorder.
"People only seriously consider change when they feel accepted for exactly who they are" -Carl Rogers I believe that if a person is given the appropriate environment and support they can become their best self. Together we can take a look inward and work toward developing and unlocking the best you. For years we often hold ourselves prisoner, allow me the privilege to assist with developing personal insight into past traumas and future successes. By developing the capacity to live in the moment, we tap into our 5 senses and allow ourselves to truly live in the moment free of our past or future.
I have worked with several populations to include: addiction, adults, adolescence, depression, families, couples, anxiety, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder and borderline personality disorder.
"People only seriously consider change when they feel accepted for exactly who they are" -Carl Rogers I believe that if a person is given the appropriate environment and support they can become their best self. Together we can take a look inward and work toward developing and unlocking the best you. For years we often hold ourselves prisoner, allow me the privilege to assist with developing personal insight into past traumas and future successes. By developing the capacity to live in the moment, we tap into our 5 senses and allow ourselves to truly live in the moment free of our past or future.
(757) 347-8763 View (757) 347-8763
Photo of Terra Alagna, LCSW, EMDR-C, CAGCS, DBT-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Terra Alagna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR-C, CAGCS, DBT-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24014
I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders, borderline personality disorder, complex trauma, grief, and parent-child interaction therapy.
My goal is to help others find their life worth living through specific and measurable steps that can ease the stress of change and create long-lasting improvement in daily functioning.
I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders, borderline personality disorder, complex trauma, grief, and parent-child interaction therapy.
My goal is to help others find their life worth living through specific and measurable steps that can ease the stress of change and create long-lasting improvement in daily functioning.
(540) 730-2793 View (540) 730-2793
Photo of Yaraliz Rodriguez, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Yaraliz Rodriguez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23320
I have experience working with individuals with ADHD, ASD, Bipolar, BPD, PTSD, and many more disorders.
I have experience with individual counseling as well as co-counseling groups comprised of children, teens, and adults. I believe in the benefits of counseling and strive to help improve clients' lives through understanding and compassion. I love working with children through play and artistic expression. I have dealt with many issues to include abuse, ADHD, Autism, depression, anxiety, trauma, "Adulting", relationships (through individual counseling), parenting, Bipolar Disorder, personality disorders, and many more. I offer weekly and bi-weekly appointments.
I have experience working with individuals with ADHD, ASD, Bipolar, BPD, PTSD, and many more disorders.
I have experience with individual counseling as well as co-counseling groups comprised of children, teens, and adults. I believe in the benefits of counseling and strive to help improve clients' lives through understanding and compassion. I love working with children through play and artistic expression. I have dealt with many issues to include abuse, ADHD, Autism, depression, anxiety, trauma, "Adulting", relationships (through individual counseling), parenting, Bipolar Disorder, personality disorders, and many more. I offer weekly and bi-weekly appointments.
(757) 832-1778 View (757) 832-1778
Photo of Dr. Aaliyah Gibbons, PsyD, PSYPACT, Psychologist
Dr. Aaliyah Gibbons
Psychologist, PsyD, PSYPACT
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with trauma, PTSD, addiction, eating disorders, bipolar disorder, BPD, or grief? I am here to help clients work through significant life stressors and emotional experiences. Even in the most difficult of circumstances, I try to help my clients find hope and learn the skills necessary to create a life they truly enjoy. My ideal client will appreciate an honest, direct approach that also emphasizes humor and creativity for a truly unique therapy experience.
Are you struggling with trauma, PTSD, addiction, eating disorders, bipolar disorder, BPD, or grief? I am here to help clients work through significant life stressors and emotional experiences. Even in the most difficult of circumstances, I try to help my clients find hope and learn the skills necessary to create a life they truly enjoy. My ideal client will appreciate an honest, direct approach that also emphasizes humor and creativity for a truly unique therapy experience.
(703) 782-3603 View (703) 782-3603
Photo of Darleen Claire Wodzenski, PhD, LPC, NCC ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Darleen Claire Wodzenski
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC ACS
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23452  (Online Only)
I love supporting clients of all ages, infants to 99, in growing, healing, overcoming, and becoming the person they choose and need to be. With an extensive background in Special Education including a focus in Autism and Gifted and Talented, I incorporate a perspective on Human Development into my clinical practice. Areas where I do a great deal of work include Attachment (RAD) for foster care and adoption; Borderline Personality Disorder BPD; DID and Dissociation; Trauma; and Anxiety and Depression. We incorporate mindfulness and compassion with DBT, NLP, EMDR and Hypnotherapy into a gentle, integrated and supportive platform.
I love supporting clients of all ages, infants to 99, in growing, healing, overcoming, and becoming the person they choose and need to be. With an extensive background in Special Education including a focus in Autism and Gifted and Talented, I incorporate a perspective on Human Development into my clinical practice. Areas where I do a great deal of work include Attachment (RAD) for foster care and adoption; Borderline Personality Disorder BPD; DID and Dissociation; Trauma; and Anxiety and Depression. We incorporate mindfulness and compassion with DBT, NLP, EMDR and Hypnotherapy into a gentle, integrated and supportive platform.
(833) 224-4956 View (833) 224-4956
Photo of Karen Kassem, MEd, EdS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karen Kassem
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, EdS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22046
I am intensively trained in DBT and work with individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder.
Let's talk about it. Sometimes the hardest part about therapy is getting started. Finding the right provider, learning to accept help, and showing up to that intake session can be life changing. Make your mental health a priority- after all, your relationship with yourself is the most important (and longest) relationship that you will ever have! Together, we can work to reach your goals and improve your day to day living. It can also provide you with a safe and supportive space in which you can feel heard, validated, and understood.
I am intensively trained in DBT and work with individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder.
Let's talk about it. Sometimes the hardest part about therapy is getting started. Finding the right provider, learning to accept help, and showing up to that intake session can be life changing. Make your mental health a priority- after all, your relationship with yourself is the most important (and longest) relationship that you will ever have! Together, we can work to reach your goals and improve your day to day living. It can also provide you with a safe and supportive space in which you can feel heard, validated, and understood.
(703) 420-1807 View (703) 420-1807
Photo of Cheyenne Fisher, PsyD, LCP, Psychologist
Cheyenne Fisher
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23451  (Online Only)
I specialize in personality disorders, and I especially enjoy working with schizoid and borderline personality structures.
One of my favorite things to do is understand how people work. This drives my treatment approach to include deep exploration of symptoms to get to the root of maladaptive patterns. I believe long term change stems from understanding and processing how one’s past is currently influencing one’s present. This includes a focus on using self-reflection and self-examination to explore and change the psychological root of emotional distress.
I specialize in personality disorders, and I especially enjoy working with schizoid and borderline personality structures.
One of my favorite things to do is understand how people work. This drives my treatment approach to include deep exploration of symptoms to get to the root of maladaptive patterns. I believe long term change stems from understanding and processing how one’s past is currently influencing one’s present. This includes a focus on using self-reflection and self-examination to explore and change the psychological root of emotional distress.
(757) 828-5927 View (757) 828-5927
Photo of Shimila Keenum, LCSW, RN, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shimila Keenum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Amherst, VA 24521
Shimila Keenum is a licensed clinical social worker and registered nurse. Her specialties include trauma, depression, anger management, anxiety, substance use, borderline personality disorder, parental coaching, grief and loss, relationship issues, marriage and family problems, child and adolescent behavioral challenges. Shimila's clinical approach is focused on meeting you with safety and compassion right where you are on your path. She will work with you to support your connection with your own intrinsic resources and healing rhythms while also offering life skills to parts of you that may find them helpful on your journey.
Shimila Keenum is a licensed clinical social worker and registered nurse. Her specialties include trauma, depression, anger management, anxiety, substance use, borderline personality disorder, parental coaching, grief and loss, relationship issues, marriage and family problems, child and adolescent behavioral challenges. Shimila's clinical approach is focused on meeting you with safety and compassion right where you are on your path. She will work with you to support your connection with your own intrinsic resources and healing rhythms while also offering life skills to parts of you that may find them helpful on your journey.
(434) 204-2498 View (434) 204-2498
Photo of Nadia Samad Locey, PhD, Psychologist
Nadia Samad Locey
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22201  (Online Only)
I also have specialty training in the DBT Prolonged Exposure protocol for individuals with comorbid Borderline Personality Disorder and PTSD.
My therapeutic style is very warm and genuine, with generous doses of humor. I am a big proponent of using therapeutic techniques that have good research evidence demonstrating their effectiveness. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). CBT teaches clients coping skills to manage their emotions and behaviors. It also changes clients' emotions by helping them change their thoughts and behaviors. I provide CBT to address the following presenting problems: Adjustment Disorders, Depression, Anxiety, OCD, and PTSD.
I also have specialty training in the DBT Prolonged Exposure protocol for individuals with comorbid Borderline Personality Disorder and PTSD.
My therapeutic style is very warm and genuine, with generous doses of humor. I am a big proponent of using therapeutic techniques that have good research evidence demonstrating their effectiveness. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). CBT teaches clients coping skills to manage their emotions and behaviors. It also changes clients' emotions by helping them change their thoughts and behaviors. I provide CBT to address the following presenting problems: Adjustment Disorders, Depression, Anxiety, OCD, and PTSD.
(571) 931-2936 View (571) 931-2936
Photo of Kayla Gasper, LPC, LSATP, CSAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kayla Gasper
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LSATP, CSAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waitlist for new clients
I work with individuals 11+ with issues with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, BPD, DMDD, and disruptive behaviors.
Sometimes, we get stuck in our lives and need assistance. These moments could be because of depression, anxiety, trauma, interpersonal conflicts, or behavioral difficulties. To help work through these moments, we may need a safe space to be open and honest with ourselves to help us gain the tools to change. I help you feel safe so we can actively work toward changing and resolving the concerns that brought you to therapy.
I work with individuals 11+ with issues with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, BPD, DMDD, and disruptive behaviors.
Sometimes, we get stuck in our lives and need assistance. These moments could be because of depression, anxiety, trauma, interpersonal conflicts, or behavioral difficulties. To help work through these moments, we may need a safe space to be open and honest with ourselves to help us gain the tools to change. I help you feel safe so we can actively work toward changing and resolving the concerns that brought you to therapy.
(757) 767-4593 View (757) 767-4593
Photo of Holly Bedotto, PsyD, Psychologist
Holly Bedotto
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
"Therapy is a journey one takes with a trusted professional who will walk side by side, at times guiding and at times following. There are no preconceived notions about this journey however brief or extended." These are the words I have shared over many years of training young professionals. Though I treat all types of individuals, my area of specialty is complex trauma - borderline personality disorder, PTSD, and dissociation. I am intensively trained in DBT and have been practicing and teaching DBT for over fifteen years. My team is DBT by Design/South FL DBT Consortium.
"Therapy is a journey one takes with a trusted professional who will walk side by side, at times guiding and at times following. There are no preconceived notions about this journey however brief or extended." These are the words I have shared over many years of training young professionals. Though I treat all types of individuals, my area of specialty is complex trauma - borderline personality disorder, PTSD, and dissociation. I am intensively trained in DBT and have been practicing and teaching DBT for over fifteen years. My team is DBT by Design/South FL DBT Consortium.
(786) 250-2958 View (786) 250-2958
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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.