Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in Cerritos, CA

Photo of Haiza Martinez, ACSW
Haiza Martinez
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90703  (Online Only)
Yes, we laugh in therapy, because healing can be both transformative and fun. I am committed to providing authentic, inclusive and culturally sensitive therapy to Latinx adults, neurodiverse identifying adults, and women navigating intense emotions and intrusive thoughts. I create a space to process trauma, navigate challenging emotions, and build resilience. With a focus on setting healthy boundaries, improving communication skills, and managing intrusive thoughts, I help cultivate self-awareness, build in I help clients cultivate self-awareness, build insight and develop coping strategies to thrive in their daily lives.
Yes, we laugh in therapy, because healing can be both transformative and fun. I am committed to providing authentic, inclusive and culturally sensitive therapy to Latinx adults, neurodiverse identifying adults, and women navigating intense emotions and intrusive thoughts. I create a space to process trauma, navigate challenging emotions, and build resilience. With a focus on setting healthy boundaries, improving communication skills, and managing intrusive thoughts, I help cultivate self-awareness, build in I help clients cultivate self-awareness, build insight and develop coping strategies to thrive in their daily lives.
(562) 526-1407 View (562) 526-1407
Photo of Jessica Ramey, MS, MEd, LPCC, NCC, NBCT, Counselor
Jessica Ramey
Counselor, MS, MEd, LPCC, NCC, NBCT
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90703  (Online Only)
Change is the constant certainty in life. I am here to collaborate with you in gaining autonomy in dealing with any difficult change in your life. If you are reading this right now, I respect your courage and wisdom in seeking guidance in dealing with that struggle that is challenging you. I will support you from your perspective and I am confident as we effectively collaborate in honing a tailored therapeutic process, you will begin to gain solace and understanding.
Change is the constant certainty in life. I am here to collaborate with you in gaining autonomy in dealing with any difficult change in your life. If you are reading this right now, I respect your courage and wisdom in seeking guidance in dealing with that struggle that is challenging you. I will support you from your perspective and I am confident as we effectively collaborate in honing a tailored therapeutic process, you will begin to gain solace and understanding.
(562) 548-8394 View (562) 548-8394
Photo of Kelsey Chang-Kim, LCSW, MSW, MLD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelsey Chang-Kim
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MLD
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90703  (Online Only)
Welcome! I am so happy you're here. My first and foremost priority is to help you feel safe, relaxed, and comfortable. I exude warmth, open-mindedness, non-judgment, and care from a genuine place. I've worked with many diverse populations over the years and particularly enjoy working with teens and young adults as he/she/they discover their truest selves and navigate the complexities of life. Whether it is anxiety or depression or overcoming a painful past, you are not alone and there IS a light at the end of the tunnel.
Welcome! I am so happy you're here. My first and foremost priority is to help you feel safe, relaxed, and comfortable. I exude warmth, open-mindedness, non-judgment, and care from a genuine place. I've worked with many diverse populations over the years and particularly enjoy working with teens and young adults as he/she/they discover their truest selves and navigate the complexities of life. Whether it is anxiety or depression or overcoming a painful past, you are not alone and there IS a light at the end of the tunnel.
(562) 273-9693 View (562) 273-9693
Photo of David Brown - Remarkable Services, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Remarkable Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90703
Life can feel uncertain and mixed emotions can make it difficult to know what to do. As your therapist, I want you to leave feeling heard, understood, accepted, and empowered. Sessions are centered around you and your experiences. Using a narrative approach, we work together to create a life narrative that highlights your strengths, history, and how you have worked to thrive. My role is to support you and walk alongside you through this time in life.
Life can feel uncertain and mixed emotions can make it difficult to know what to do. As your therapist, I want you to leave feeling heard, understood, accepted, and empowered. Sessions are centered around you and your experiences. Using a narrative approach, we work together to create a life narrative that highlights your strengths, history, and how you have worked to thrive. My role is to support you and walk alongside you through this time in life.
(562) 307-8710 View (562) 307-8710
Photo of Sandra K Kaumaya, MS, LMFT, ARFA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sandra K Kaumaya
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, ARFA
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90703
Painful situations at home or work can limit your happiness in life, Through counseling (EAP) Programs or Individual or family counseling can help. As a therapist I assist children/family individuals regarding ADD ODD ADHD Phobic / Anxiety and Depression problems. Victims of Crime/ Domestic Violence PTSD Post-Partum Depression Inappropriate Behavior Patterns, self-destructive behavior(cutting) in children can be minimized with therapy. I utilize Cognitive Behavior Therapy especially with children. I provide methods of stress management and conflict resolution, including depressed /anxious patients due to the physical limitations of surgery Counseling can help minimize feelings of hopelessness and isolation,
Painful situations at home or work can limit your happiness in life, Through counseling (EAP) Programs or Individual or family counseling can help. As a therapist I assist children/family individuals regarding ADD ODD ADHD Phobic / Anxiety and Depression problems. Victims of Crime/ Domestic Violence PTSD Post-Partum Depression Inappropriate Behavior Patterns, self-destructive behavior(cutting) in children can be minimized with therapy. I utilize Cognitive Behavior Therapy especially with children. I provide methods of stress management and conflict resolution, including depressed /anxious patients due to the physical limitations of surgery Counseling can help minimize feelings of hopelessness and isolation,
(562) 841-0348 View (562) 841-0348
Photo of Art Imla, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Art Imla
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90703
Art Imla, LMFT 90953: I like to use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help all with life's concerns and challenges. By focusing on the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, clients can empower themselves to make the changes they seek in their lives. Do you feel like you're running a marathon but don't know when or how to stop? Feeling a lot of anxiety? Or maybe some days you wake up with "the Mondays" - and it may not even be Monday.
Art Imla, LMFT 90953: I like to use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help all with life's concerns and challenges. By focusing on the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, clients can empower themselves to make the changes they seek in their lives. Do you feel like you're running a marathon but don't know when or how to stop? Feeling a lot of anxiety? Or maybe some days you wake up with "the Mondays" - and it may not even be Monday.
(858) 567-0266 View (858) 567-0266
Photo of Patrick Cleveland, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patrick Cleveland
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cerritos, CA 90703
Taking the first step toward getting help is the hardest part and I understand that. I am the founder & clinical director of Daybreak Counseling Center. We are an elite & dedicated group of therapists. We focus on providing a safe and nonjudgemental environment in order to help you speak freely, share your story, ask questions, and face any issues that arise. In beginning this inquiry, today you are one step closer to finding answers and solutions. Whether you are feeling down, anxious, confused, have relationship issues, or just want to grow emotionally and learn more about yourself, therapy can help. Your mental health matters!
Taking the first step toward getting help is the hardest part and I understand that. I am the founder & clinical director of Daybreak Counseling Center. We are an elite & dedicated group of therapists. We focus on providing a safe and nonjudgemental environment in order to help you speak freely, share your story, ask questions, and face any issues that arise. In beginning this inquiry, today you are one step closer to finding answers and solutions. Whether you are feeling down, anxious, confused, have relationship issues, or just want to grow emotionally and learn more about yourself, therapy can help. Your mental health matters!
(562) 366-1596 View (562) 366-1596
Photo of Dean Leav - Men's Issues - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist
Men's Issues - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90703
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
Welcome to my practice. I have been in practice since 2007 and have been featured on ABC, NBC, and KCAL as an expert psychologist. I work primarily with men who have hit “rock bottom” and would like help getting up. These men are often in crisis when we first meet. The issues I address are typically related to unhealthy sexual behaviors, infidelity, financial recklessness, gambling, drugs/alcohol, dishonesty/lying, and relational conflicts. My therapy approach is a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive-behavioral, and the 12-Step recovery model. I also share insight from my own painful but redemptive recovery journey.
(949) 755-8095 View (949) 755-8095
Photo of Ralph Ihle, PhD, Psychologist
Ralph Ihle
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90703
Dr. Ralph Ihle is a Psychologist in the Long Beach, CA area whose practice has spanned more than 30 years. He obtained his undergraduate degree from the University of California at Los Angeles, CA in 1980 and his doctoral degree from the University of Southern California in 1988. He acquired skills consulting with and training program treatment staff and assessing and treating male and female patients with severe mental disorders and young adults with destructive behavior disorders.
Dr. Ralph Ihle is a Psychologist in the Long Beach, CA area whose practice has spanned more than 30 years. He obtained his undergraduate degree from the University of California at Los Angeles, CA in 1980 and his doctoral degree from the University of Southern California in 1988. He acquired skills consulting with and training program treatment staff and assessing and treating male and female patients with severe mental disorders and young adults with destructive behavior disorders.
(562) 414-5629 View (562) 414-5629
Photo of Dean Leav - Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90703
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
(949) 649-8350 View (949) 649-8350
Photo of Dean Leav - Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90703
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
(949) 461-1089 View (949) 461-1089
Photo of Dean Leav - Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90703
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
(424) 397-2562 View (424) 397-2562
Photo of Dean Leav - Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90703
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
(424) 395-5759 View (424) 395-5759
Photo of Michael S. Courter - Free At Heart Online Therapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Free At Heart Online Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90703
Free At Heart Therapy is a group practice of highly skilled and trained therapists. Each therapist offers a compassionate and non judgmental environment for healing. Our team focuses on training to deliver high quality therapy for treating a variety of mental health issues in individuals, couples and families. We are currently taking Caloptima, Blue Cross Medi-Cal, California Health and Wellness, Healthnet and MHN. All of our services are available through tele-health in the comfort of your home and in our new office in Fullerton. Therefore we offer a personal and high-quality service that is affordable and accessible.
Free At Heart Therapy is a group practice of highly skilled and trained therapists. Each therapist offers a compassionate and non judgmental environment for healing. Our team focuses on training to deliver high quality therapy for treating a variety of mental health issues in individuals, couples and families. We are currently taking Caloptima, Blue Cross Medi-Cal, California Health and Wellness, Healthnet and MHN. All of our services are available through tele-health in the comfort of your home and in our new office in Fullerton. Therefore we offer a personal and high-quality service that is affordable and accessible.
(530) 460-6190 View (530) 460-6190
Photo of Naomi Duffy, LCSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Naomi Duffy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cerritos, CA 90703
Imagine a world where you like who you truly are at the core. A world where you no longer worry about the judgement of others. This is that door. I invite you to walk though it together. When you're tired of being tired and have tried other options that seem to come back to the same end, this is the beginning of something different. This is the chance to move through your fear of abandonment and rejection, and the chance to begin to lead your authentic life. My intention is to walk with you on the journey of knowing yourself. I strongly believe in open curiosity paired with synergy which is a bedrock to a trust-based relationship.
Imagine a world where you like who you truly are at the core. A world where you no longer worry about the judgement of others. This is that door. I invite you to walk though it together. When you're tired of being tired and have tried other options that seem to come back to the same end, this is the beginning of something different. This is the chance to move through your fear of abandonment and rejection, and the chance to begin to lead your authentic life. My intention is to walk with you on the journey of knowing yourself. I strongly believe in open curiosity paired with synergy which is a bedrock to a trust-based relationship.
(818) 533-6778 View (818) 533-6778
Photo of Meghan Elaine Shamburger, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Meghan Elaine Shamburger
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cerritos, CA 90701
The truth about mental health is that being mentally healthy is not simply being happy all the time and perfect relationships are not born they are built. It is a fact that life is full of twists and turns with amazing highs and heartbreaking lows, not just for the individual but for couples and families as well. True mental health is the ability to navigate through these points while embracing the full range of your emotions and honoring them and every part of yourself! This is the stuff that mentally healthy and strong people and relationships are made of and this is where my passion lies!
The truth about mental health is that being mentally healthy is not simply being happy all the time and perfect relationships are not born they are built. It is a fact that life is full of twists and turns with amazing highs and heartbreaking lows, not just for the individual but for couples and families as well. True mental health is the ability to navigate through these points while embracing the full range of your emotions and honoring them and every part of yourself! This is the stuff that mentally healthy and strong people and relationships are made of and this is where my passion lies!
(562) 265-3854 View (562) 265-3854

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Karin Brewster, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karin Brewster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Buena Park, CA 90620
Hi, I am Karin Brewster, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing services across Los Angeles with over 7 years of experience. I have worked with adolescents and adults with a wide arrange of challenges including depression, anxiety, difficulty managing emotions, interpersonal issues, impulsive behaviors and rapid mood changes. I also have assisted many people in coping with trauma and grief/loss. I am trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Seeking Safety and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), however, I aim to tailor every individuals treatment plan according to their specific needs.
Hi, I am Karin Brewster, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing services across Los Angeles with over 7 years of experience. I have worked with adolescents and adults with a wide arrange of challenges including depression, anxiety, difficulty managing emotions, interpersonal issues, impulsive behaviors and rapid mood changes. I also have assisted many people in coping with trauma and grief/loss. I am trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Seeking Safety and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), however, I aim to tailor every individuals treatment plan according to their specific needs.
(424) 312-0577 View (424) 312-0577
Photo of Vanessa Del Rio, LPCC
Vanessa Del Rio
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Buena Park, CA 90620
Hello there, my name is Vanessa Del Rio, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor based in Palm Springs, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in anxiety, stress, depression, and trauma, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy to help my clients feel better and make progress that will enhance their lives. My overall approach is warm and personable. My therapy styles vary based on the needs of each client I work with.
Hello there, my name is Vanessa Del Rio, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor based in Palm Springs, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in anxiety, stress, depression, and trauma, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy to help my clients feel better and make progress that will enhance their lives. My overall approach is warm and personable. My therapy styles vary based on the needs of each client I work with.
(657) 300-6249 View (657) 300-6249
Photo of Nicholas Crisp, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicholas Crisp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Artesia, CA 90703
Nicholas Crisp is an experienced social worker who has worked in a variety of roles and capacity. In his seven years of practice, he has worked with many populations, with his primary focus and passion being with dually and co-occurring disorders, while maintaining a caseload specialization in adolescent, youth, and family systems. Other areas of specialization include cognitive behavioral therapy, gender/culturally informed care, and solution-focused and family systems application.
Nicholas Crisp is an experienced social worker who has worked in a variety of roles and capacity. In his seven years of practice, he has worked with many populations, with his primary focus and passion being with dually and co-occurring disorders, while maintaining a caseload specialization in adolescent, youth, and family systems. Other areas of specialization include cognitive behavioral therapy, gender/culturally informed care, and solution-focused and family systems application.
(669) 219-2477 View (669) 219-2477
Photo of Elysa Thangchaipinyokul, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elysa Thangchaipinyokul
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Buena Park, CA 90621
Hello! My name is Elysa Thangchaipinyokul and I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Southern California. I attended the University of Southern California and graduated in 2010 with my Master of Social Work (MSW) Degree. I've worked in mental health for over 10 years providing psychotherapy primarily to adults and older adults. My primary expertise has been working with clients who are dealing with mood disorders (Bipolar, Depression & Anxiety). I also have worked with clients dealing with grief, trauma, and life transitions/adjustments.
Hello! My name is Elysa Thangchaipinyokul and I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Southern California. I attended the University of Southern California and graduated in 2010 with my Master of Social Work (MSW) Degree. I've worked in mental health for over 10 years providing psychotherapy primarily to adults and older adults. My primary expertise has been working with clients who are dealing with mood disorders (Bipolar, Depression & Anxiety). I also have worked with clients dealing with grief, trauma, and life transitions/adjustments.
(661) 320-8709 View (661) 320-8709
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.