Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in Alameda County, CA
![Photo of Dr. Quintin Bailey, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ed39a90-f43a-4ef9-875d-102207ecd7e6/3/320x400.jpeg)
At QGB Therapy LLC, Dr. Bailey and associates specialize in offering culturally humble treatment for those navigating personality disorders (borderline personality disorder), severe dissociative disorders (dissociative identity disorder), and complex or relational trauma. Their approach is non-directive and grounded in the belief that we are all capable of healing when we feel safe and understood within ourselves and by others. We are also happy to provide services and hold space for those who may not have or desire diagnosis. As with all services offered, possible diagnosis is a collaborative process.
At QGB Therapy LLC, Dr. Bailey and associates specialize in offering culturally humble treatment for those navigating personality disorders (borderline personality disorder), severe dissociative disorders (dissociative identity disorder), and complex or relational trauma. Their approach is non-directive and grounded in the belief that we are all capable of healing when we feel safe and understood within ourselves and by others. We are also happy to provide services and hold space for those who may not have or desire diagnosis. As with all services offered, possible diagnosis is a collaborative process.
![Photo of Heather Macbeth - Oakland DBT and Mindfulness Center, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f1b490c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Oakland DBT and Mindfulness Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Not Verified Not Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
We offer evidenced-based treatment, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for the treatment of borderline personality disorder, and other clinical symptoms. We are a team of 5 therapists intensively trained in DBT, and other modalities. We offer a comprehensive DBT program (individual therapy, skills class, consultation team, phone coaching, assessment). We have a program for adults, young adults, families and teens. We are located on Piedmont Avenue, in Oakland in the San Francisco Bay Area. Please review our website for detailed information about our intake process, skills class schedule, individual therapy, mindfulness programs, fees, etc...
We offer evidenced-based treatment, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for the treatment of borderline personality disorder, and other clinical symptoms. We are a team of 5 therapists intensively trained in DBT, and other modalities. We offer a comprehensive DBT program (individual therapy, skills class, consultation team, phone coaching, assessment). We have a program for adults, young adults, families and teens. We are located on Piedmont Avenue, in Oakland in the San Francisco Bay Area. Please review our website for detailed information about our intake process, skills class schedule, individual therapy, mindfulness programs, fees, etc...
![Photo of Lane McConnell, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50ee947a-a878-427c-bc19-86e35d93d4c7/1/320x400.png)
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, borderline personality, sexuality issues or addiction? These are some of the areas I specialize in. I believe therapy can help you find the solutions you need to move forward to have a happier life. Have you struggled to find an effective type of therapy that works for you? I tailor my therapy approach to you based on what has and has not worked for you in the past. Together we will set therapy goals to help you remove present barriers, suffering and emotional pain so you can live your life to your upmost potential. Additional information: www.lanemcconnelltherapy.com
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, borderline personality, sexuality issues or addiction? These are some of the areas I specialize in. I believe therapy can help you find the solutions you need to move forward to have a happier life. Have you struggled to find an effective type of therapy that works for you? I tailor my therapy approach to you based on what has and has not worked for you in the past. Together we will set therapy goals to help you remove present barriers, suffering and emotional pain so you can live your life to your upmost potential. Additional information: www.lanemcconnelltherapy.com
![Photo of Lena Nicodemus, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/65a0e0a1-5f02-48ba-826a-80b0fa06b80e/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), borderline personality disorder (BPD), neurodivergence, trauma, anxiety, and depression.
Do you feel trapped by your anxious rumination, obsessive-compulsive patterns, and people-pleasing behaviors? Have you seen therapists in the past who you feel like listened and validated you but didn't help you figure out what to actually do about your anxiety? Maybe you feel like your previous trauma makes it hard for you to feel like you can connect with loved ones in relationship now? I help highly motivated clients like you learn how to manage your anxiety and get your needs met in your relationships. There is hope for you to live a life that feels worth living.
I specialize in obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), borderline personality disorder (BPD), neurodivergence, trauma, anxiety, and depression.
Do you feel trapped by your anxious rumination, obsessive-compulsive patterns, and people-pleasing behaviors? Have you seen therapists in the past who you feel like listened and validated you but didn't help you figure out what to actually do about your anxiety? Maybe you feel like your previous trauma makes it hard for you to feel like you can connect with loved ones in relationship now? I help highly motivated clients like you learn how to manage your anxiety and get your needs met in your relationships. There is hope for you to live a life that feels worth living.
![Photo of Herbert Wright, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/65a658a7-c7dc-4408-b7a0-7cd3edc053c2/1/320x400.png)
My name is Herbert Wright, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in Humanistic / Existential, CBT, Object Relations, Solution Focused, and Structural Family Therapy. I have worked with various clients who have had issues with Substance abuse, Sexual Abuse, Schizophrenia, Grief and Loss, Abandonment, Isolation, Borderline Personality Disorder, Nightmares, Insomnia, Suicide, At-risk youth, open Department of Children and Family Services, Probation, Court Ordered, Family Reunification, Career Planning, Coaching, Spiritual, Trauma, and Religious issues
My name is Herbert Wright, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in Humanistic / Existential, CBT, Object Relations, Solution Focused, and Structural Family Therapy. I have worked with various clients who have had issues with Substance abuse, Sexual Abuse, Schizophrenia, Grief and Loss, Abandonment, Isolation, Borderline Personality Disorder, Nightmares, Insomnia, Suicide, At-risk youth, open Department of Children and Family Services, Probation, Court Ordered, Family Reunification, Career Planning, Coaching, Spiritual, Trauma, and Religious issues
![Photo of Bernadette Baltazar, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42878f84-8a3d-4ad5-b78d-2cd06b2705d0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Bernadette Baltazar
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Hayward, CA 94541 (Online Only)
I specialized in working with dual-diagnosed clients with substance use disorder & serious & chronic mental health illness Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, Borderline, Depression, Anxiety, & Trauma.
Welcome to an empathetic, warm, and collaborative space where self-discovery awaits. As a therapist, my aim is to guide you on life's journey and help you uncover its true meaning. I am here to support you through challenging times by providing coping tools and assisting you in exploring your goals and dreams. Together, we will uncover your innate resilience and foster stronger, more meaningful connections. with a holistic and honest approach, I will help you identify and transform unhealthy thought patterns, enhancing your overall quality of life. Let's embark on a transformative journey towards personal growth and THRIVE.
I specialized in working with dual-diagnosed clients with substance use disorder & serious & chronic mental health illness Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, Borderline, Depression, Anxiety, & Trauma.
Welcome to an empathetic, warm, and collaborative space where self-discovery awaits. As a therapist, my aim is to guide you on life's journey and help you uncover its true meaning. I am here to support you through challenging times by providing coping tools and assisting you in exploring your goals and dreams. Together, we will uncover your innate resilience and foster stronger, more meaningful connections. with a holistic and honest approach, I will help you identify and transform unhealthy thought patterns, enhancing your overall quality of life. Let's embark on a transformative journey towards personal growth and THRIVE.
![Photo of Mark Abelson, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0d4696a7-c293-4c0a-ba58-96b97cb00cb8/1/320x400.png)
Whether it's managing a short-term challenge or dealing with a chronic struggle, fear, worry, and feelings of shame can hold an outsized presence in our lives. I work with clients who experience overwhelming anxiety, anger, and depression to build more resilient, rewarding, and value-driven lives. My areas of practice include preteens and high school students, individuals with Borderline Personality and Bipolar Disorder, people on the autism spectrum, and mood disorders that impact anxiety, depression, and sleep.
Whether it's managing a short-term challenge or dealing with a chronic struggle, fear, worry, and feelings of shame can hold an outsized presence in our lives. I work with clients who experience overwhelming anxiety, anger, and depression to build more resilient, rewarding, and value-driven lives. My areas of practice include preteens and high school students, individuals with Borderline Personality and Bipolar Disorder, people on the autism spectrum, and mood disorders that impact anxiety, depression, and sleep.
![Photo of Brenda Barba, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/127bb0be-8555-4fd6-bb3c-e0d43be7f82f/1/320x400.jpeg)
I enjoy doing individual therapy with adults ranging from 18 to 75 years of age who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, anger, borderline or bipolar disorders.
I am so glad you are taking the first step in this journey! Now Let me introduce myself. My name is Brenda Barba, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have been in the mental health profession for 5 years, but in the field for nearly 10. I enjoy what I do and constantly continue to educate myself to provide the best service to individuals who want to grow, heal, control their emotions, increase self-awareness and confidence, and learn coping skills to reach the best version of themselves. I have worked with a wide range of mental health diagnoses including but not limited to personality disorders, bipolar disorder, PTSD, anxiety.
I enjoy doing individual therapy with adults ranging from 18 to 75 years of age who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, anger, borderline or bipolar disorders.
I am so glad you are taking the first step in this journey! Now Let me introduce myself. My name is Brenda Barba, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have been in the mental health profession for 5 years, but in the field for nearly 10. I enjoy what I do and constantly continue to educate myself to provide the best service to individuals who want to grow, heal, control their emotions, increase self-awareness and confidence, and learn coping skills to reach the best version of themselves. I have worked with a wide range of mental health diagnoses including but not limited to personality disorders, bipolar disorder, PTSD, anxiety.
![Photo of Mary M Clarke, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bd121ca5-b53e-477c-9e54-24f303dcd434/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mary M Clarke
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
Waitlist for new clients
Other specialty areas: personality concerns (BPD, etc.
For 20 years, I have provided safe, affirming trauma therapy for adults, couples, and groups. I also have the experience and education to provide therapy for many other relationship, mood, and dissociative concerns. I am straightforward, collaborative, and endeavor to be empowering. My therapy style is relational and includes a focus on emotion & body connection and your whole picture of health. We will work together to create peace and fullness in your life.
Other specialty areas: personality concerns (BPD, etc.
For 20 years, I have provided safe, affirming trauma therapy for adults, couples, and groups. I also have the experience and education to provide therapy for many other relationship, mood, and dissociative concerns. I am straightforward, collaborative, and endeavor to be empowering. My therapy style is relational and includes a focus on emotion & body connection and your whole picture of health. We will work together to create peace and fullness in your life.
![Photo of Ross Lisman, CP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c2eddce3-a448-4281-8c56-805f814362d3/2/320x400.png)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist (Ph.D.) and I specialize in helping you along your path to healing using evidence-based practices provided with warmth and care. I want to work with you to both reduce the symptoms that have been interfering with your life and help you to build a life worth living! I have extensive experience working with trauma, anxiety, depression, sleep issues, bipolar disorder, addiction, and borderline personality disorder.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist (Ph.D.) and I specialize in helping you along your path to healing using evidence-based practices provided with warmth and care. I want to work with you to both reduce the symptoms that have been interfering with your life and help you to build a life worth living! I have extensive experience working with trauma, anxiety, depression, sleep issues, bipolar disorder, addiction, and borderline personality disorder.
![Photo of Rachel Gileno, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8726fbc7-5171-4bc8-aa5f-c5dce66fb2b8/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have experience treating Borderline Personality Disorder, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and PTSD.
My name is Rachel Gileno, and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. My approach to therapy is client-centered and trauma-informed. I utilize DBT and mindfulness practices to assist clients with becoming more grounded and present-moment-focused. I believe the therapist/client relationship is paramount. I place an emphasis on rapport building and clear, authentic communication with the folks I work with. The modalities I utilize to assist clients with reaching their goals are primarily DBT and CBT.
I have experience treating Borderline Personality Disorder, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and PTSD.
My name is Rachel Gileno, and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. My approach to therapy is client-centered and trauma-informed. I utilize DBT and mindfulness practices to assist clients with becoming more grounded and present-moment-focused. I believe the therapist/client relationship is paramount. I place an emphasis on rapport building and clear, authentic communication with the folks I work with. The modalities I utilize to assist clients with reaching their goals are primarily DBT and CBT.
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![Photo of Eva Lomeli, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2bb0d71b-b250-4189-bb83-db7c0c341687/2/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Eva A. Lomeli, LCSW. I have been a mental health provider for more than twenty-five years. I have helped clients with depression and anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, BPD, grief, end of life issues, trauma or sexual abuse, and relationship issues. I use a strength based perspective and employ Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Mindfulness, and Humanistic approaches. I am committed to providing a space where you can freely express your concerns, feel understood and valued, safely process your thoughts and feelings, and learn new skills and strategies to face life's challenges.
My name is Eva A. Lomeli, LCSW. I have been a mental health provider for more than twenty-five years. I have helped clients with depression and anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, BPD, grief, end of life issues, trauma or sexual abuse, and relationship issues. I use a strength based perspective and employ Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Mindfulness, and Humanistic approaches. I am committed to providing a space where you can freely express your concerns, feel understood and valued, safely process your thoughts and feelings, and learn new skills and strategies to face life's challenges.
![Photo of Katherine H Schulz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ff6f28b-4cdd-4f7a-94ae-f70621ac52f9/2/320x400.jpeg)
I treat clients who have difficulty with borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder as well as clients in the midst of a major life transition or grief. Many of my clients struggle to regulate their emotions. They either avoid emotions altogether or feel explosive or out of control of their emotions.
I treat clients who have difficulty with borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder as well as clients in the midst of a major life transition or grief. Many of my clients struggle to regulate their emotions. They either avoid emotions altogether or feel explosive or out of control of their emotions.
![Photo of Kari Ann Tuggle-Nord, LCSW, RD, CHES, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/636d131d-8873-4e34-a515-f520e8461f43/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kari Ann Tuggle-Nord
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RD, CHES
Verified Verified
Fremont, CA 94536 (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Kari, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and Registered Dietitian. I support individuals experiencing anxiety and depression, struggling with an eating disorder, caught in addiction, or navigating a life transition. I have specialized training in the treatment of eating disorders and common co-occurring disorders such as OCD, ADHD, Borderline Personality Disorder, and substance use. I also support people who want to improve their lives by setting healthier boundaries, building confidence, and living more aligned to their values.
Hi, I’m Kari, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and Registered Dietitian. I support individuals experiencing anxiety and depression, struggling with an eating disorder, caught in addiction, or navigating a life transition. I have specialized training in the treatment of eating disorders and common co-occurring disorders such as OCD, ADHD, Borderline Personality Disorder, and substance use. I also support people who want to improve their lives by setting healthier boundaries, building confidence, and living more aligned to their values.
![Photo of Catherine Speckmann, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e7cc18a5-640c-4c02-8f57-779da43df04d/1/320x400.png)
I am comfortable and have experience treating Addictions, ADHD, Adjustment Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Behavior Disorders, Borderline Personality Disorders, Dual Diagnosis, Grief and Loss, LGBTQIA+ Populations, Mood Disorders, Self-harm, Trauma and PTSD.
My name is Catherine, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker/Psychotherapist with a solid background working with clients that are experiencing Substance Use Disorders, Mood Disorders, Anxiety, and Grief Issues. I accept clients at all stages of the lifespan from 12 and up. My approach is client-centered and focused on empowerment. I use a strength-based philosophy and feel that the therapeutic relationship is of utmost importance. I use Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Behavioral Therapies to improve coping strategies. I meet my clients where they are and assist them to get to where they want to be.
I am comfortable and have experience treating Addictions, ADHD, Adjustment Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Behavior Disorders, Borderline Personality Disorders, Dual Diagnosis, Grief and Loss, LGBTQIA+ Populations, Mood Disorders, Self-harm, Trauma and PTSD.
My name is Catherine, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker/Psychotherapist with a solid background working with clients that are experiencing Substance Use Disorders, Mood Disorders, Anxiety, and Grief Issues. I accept clients at all stages of the lifespan from 12 and up. My approach is client-centered and focused on empowerment. I use a strength-based philosophy and feel that the therapeutic relationship is of utmost importance. I use Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Behavioral Therapies to improve coping strategies. I meet my clients where they are and assist them to get to where they want to be.
![Photo of Gina Regalbuto, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b5a3ba7-1bab-44c9-88b1-9a0998f5c3ab/1/320x400.png)
Gina Regalbuto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94601 (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Gina Regalbuto, and I am a licensed clinical social worker practicing in California. My specialization is in healing trauma, depression, and anxiety and the symptoms and stressors that follow as a result. I have also worked extensively with bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, and schizophrenia. I primarily practice through the lens of psychodynamic theory and I am an eclectic provider who utilizes the modality that serves my client's the best.
Hello, my name is Gina Regalbuto, and I am a licensed clinical social worker practicing in California. My specialization is in healing trauma, depression, and anxiety and the symptoms and stressors that follow as a result. I have also worked extensively with bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, and schizophrenia. I primarily practice through the lens of psychodynamic theory and I am an eclectic provider who utilizes the modality that serves my client's the best.
![Photo of Janelle Raynor, LPCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f794abd2-7a04-4eef-a65e-da5ba302e97a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Your decision to evolve your place in the world is one of courage, vulnerability, and commitment. We create space for awareness of stressors, habits, and unconscious life patterns so that you actively heal, create, and live your authentic soul-centered life. My focus includes: trauma/C-PTSD, intergenerational trauma including childhood abuse and neglect, and surviving Borderline/Narcissistic parents; survivors of interpersonal violence; neurodivergent women; depression; anxiety; life transitions; complicated grief; religious trauma; thriving in recovery; psychedelic integration; and psycho-spiritual awakening.
Your decision to evolve your place in the world is one of courage, vulnerability, and commitment. We create space for awareness of stressors, habits, and unconscious life patterns so that you actively heal, create, and live your authentic soul-centered life. My focus includes: trauma/C-PTSD, intergenerational trauma including childhood abuse and neglect, and surviving Borderline/Narcissistic parents; survivors of interpersonal violence; neurodivergent women; depression; anxiety; life transitions; complicated grief; religious trauma; thriving in recovery; psychedelic integration; and psycho-spiritual awakening.
![Photo of Leah Hoskin - Holistic Family Therapy, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b48680eb-88af-4b48-b26c-00a68416e814/2/320x400.jpeg)
Holistic Family Therapy serves families who seek stronger connections, effective communication and reduced chaos. I am primarily a DBT therapist and work in person with families, and older adolescents.
Holistic Family Therapy serves families who seek stronger connections, effective communication and reduced chaos. I am primarily a DBT therapist and work in person with families, and older adolescents.
![Photo of Brett Wheeler, LMFT, JD, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dd14209d-f7f6-4ab4-bb00-d95d213edb4b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brett Wheeler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, JD, PhD
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94709
Waitlist for new clients
My practice focuses on issues of self-esteem, relational intimacy, shame, personality disturbances, anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. I work relationally and dynamically with a present-centered approach on issues as they are currently manifesting but with an eye to how they reflect deeper structures of clients' personalities and values. Therapy is not focused on fixing things, but on relaxing patterns of thinking, becoming more flexible in communicating emotion, building resilience, and being able to be more creative and trusting of oneself and others.
My practice focuses on issues of self-esteem, relational intimacy, shame, personality disturbances, anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. I work relationally and dynamically with a present-centered approach on issues as they are currently manifesting but with an eye to how they reflect deeper structures of clients' personalities and values. Therapy is not focused on fixing things, but on relaxing patterns of thinking, becoming more flexible in communicating emotion, building resilience, and being able to be more creative and trusting of oneself and others.
![Photo of Kennia Torres, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5306474e-ba2c-4104-bd63-ddd03f7ee899/2/320x400.jpeg)
My work focuses on individuals and couples. I have twelve years of experience treating and helping individuals gain insight, hope, and a better outlook on their lives. I provide a safe environment to address your life’s challenges, issues with relationships, self-esteem, grief, codependency, anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, anger, problematic coping, and motivation. I strive to help you gain insight into your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that influence your well-being and relationships through therapy.
My work focuses on individuals and couples. I have twelve years of experience treating and helping individuals gain insight, hope, and a better outlook on their lives. I provide a safe environment to address your life’s challenges, issues with relationships, self-esteem, grief, codependency, anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, anger, problematic coping, and motivation. I strive to help you gain insight into your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that influence your well-being and relationships through therapy.
See more therapy options for Alameda County
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.