Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in Laguna Woods, CA

Photo of Jian Tan, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jian Tan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Laguna Woods, CA 92653
My name is Jian Tan, a licensed professional clinical counselor. I hold an active license issued by Board of Behavioral Sciences of California. I am an accomplished and dynamic professional with a master’s degree in counseling and proven experience helping individuals, couples, children, families, and groups. I am a skilled interpersonal communicator able to facilitate conversation and provide a safe and welcoming environment to encourage participation.
My name is Jian Tan, a licensed professional clinical counselor. I hold an active license issued by Board of Behavioral Sciences of California. I am an accomplished and dynamic professional with a master’s degree in counseling and proven experience helping individuals, couples, children, families, and groups. I am a skilled interpersonal communicator able to facilitate conversation and provide a safe and welcoming environment to encourage participation.
(951) 904-2469 View (951) 904-2469
Photo of Julie Ray, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julie Ray
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Woods, CA 92653
Hi, my name is Julie Ray, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Many of us have or are facing challenges in our lives whether they are current stresses, past distresses, or struggling with coping. My goal is to create a supportive environment for individuals to work towards their goals and start on a path of healing. We can face many challenges in our lives whether they are current stresses, past distresses, or trauma.
Hi, my name is Julie Ray, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Many of us have or are facing challenges in our lives whether they are current stresses, past distresses, or struggling with coping. My goal is to create a supportive environment for individuals to work towards their goals and start on a path of healing. We can face many challenges in our lives whether they are current stresses, past distresses, or trauma.
(562) 632-4617 View (562) 632-4617
Photo of Julie Colfax, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julie Colfax
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Woods, CA 92653
Hello, I am Julie Pennington (previously Colfax) LMFT. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I work with people of all ages, levels of development, abilities, and stages of life. My focus is on you, your goals for yourself, and your family in the therapy space. The majority of the clients I see working to recover from trauma and minimize the impact or development of trauma responses (Acute Stress Disorder or PTSD), dealing with depression (bipolar or unipolar), anxiety, neuro-divergent and differently-abled, wanting to improve emotional management skills or work through substance use and addiction challenges.
Hello, I am Julie Pennington (previously Colfax) LMFT. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I work with people of all ages, levels of development, abilities, and stages of life. My focus is on you, your goals for yourself, and your family in the therapy space. The majority of the clients I see working to recover from trauma and minimize the impact or development of trauma responses (Acute Stress Disorder or PTSD), dealing with depression (bipolar or unipolar), anxiety, neuro-divergent and differently-abled, wanting to improve emotional management skills or work through substance use and addiction challenges.
(805) 600-8854 View (805) 600-8854

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Czarina Pinsky, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Czarina Pinsky
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Aliso Viejo, CA 92653
Do you often face challenges with emotion regulation, feelings of isolation, struggle with self-acceptance, family or relationship problems, and trauma? Overcoming the challenges of struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, family systems, or borderline personality disorder can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship, deconstructing the POC narrative surrounding therapy, authenticity, compassion, and the use of gentle challenges to help you work towards overcoming life's challenges through individualized and creative approaches.
Do you often face challenges with emotion regulation, feelings of isolation, struggle with self-acceptance, family or relationship problems, and trauma? Overcoming the challenges of struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, family systems, or borderline personality disorder can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship, deconstructing the POC narrative surrounding therapy, authenticity, compassion, and the use of gentle challenges to help you work towards overcoming life's challenges through individualized and creative approaches.
(949) 749-6883 View (949) 749-6883
Photo of Dr. Courtney M Tracy, LCSW, PsyD, CCTP, C-PD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Courtney M Tracy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PsyD, CCTP, C-PD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laguna Beach, CA 92651  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with adults who struggle with any of the following: substance use, borderline personality, and/or existential crises.
As someone with both clinical expertise and 'lived experience' when it comes to substance use and borderline personality, I'm here to help those who need someone who 'really' gets it. Perhaps you're seeking relief from big emotions you can't seem to control or you're experiencing an existential crisis related to past traumas or maybe you use substances to feel better and now it's doing more harm than help. Regardless of what brought you to Psychology Today, you've already taken the first big step toward finding the right therapist for you. And it could be me based on your search results! Reach out and let's begin.
I specialize in working with adults who struggle with any of the following: substance use, borderline personality, and/or existential crises.
As someone with both clinical expertise and 'lived experience' when it comes to substance use and borderline personality, I'm here to help those who need someone who 'really' gets it. Perhaps you're seeking relief from big emotions you can't seem to control or you're experiencing an existential crisis related to past traumas or maybe you use substances to feel better and now it's doing more harm than help. Regardless of what brought you to Psychology Today, you've already taken the first big step toward finding the right therapist for you. And it could be me based on your search results! Reach out and let's begin.
(949) 835-5341 View (949) 835-5341
Photo of Merceydes Morassi, MS, BCBA, LPCC, LMHC, Counselor
Merceydes Morassi
Counselor, MS, BCBA, LPCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
The more specific you are the more likely I am to help! My expertise is in ADHD and anxiety related issues (PTSD, phobias, panic attacks etc) but I have experience working with depression and BPD as well.
I am a solutions-focused behaviorist that believes that our mental health is directly related to our physical health. As a therapist, I spend very little time discussing the past, instead, my focus is on the current health and behavioral patterns we engage in that create problems and prevent us from reaching our goals. I teach my clients how to recognize these patterns and provide them with the tools they need to tackle these problems on their own. I also believe nearly every psychological problem can be solved without the use of medication and will work with my clients to help them safely taper off of meds.
The more specific you are the more likely I am to help! My expertise is in ADHD and anxiety related issues (PTSD, phobias, panic attacks etc) but I have experience working with depression and BPD as well.
I am a solutions-focused behaviorist that believes that our mental health is directly related to our physical health. As a therapist, I spend very little time discussing the past, instead, my focus is on the current health and behavioral patterns we engage in that create problems and prevent us from reaching our goals. I teach my clients how to recognize these patterns and provide them with the tools they need to tackle these problems on their own. I also believe nearly every psychological problem can be solved without the use of medication and will work with my clients to help them safely taper off of meds.
(954) 335-6483 View (954) 335-6483
Photo of Debbie Jason, PhD, Psychologist
Debbie Jason
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Laguna Hills, CA 92654
Relationships are challenging - even in the best circumstances. This is certainly true when building or maintaining a relationship with someone who feels stressed, sad, or acting out in anger. Many people today feel overwhelmed, alone, judged or misunderstood. There is hope, though, in that you can be the solution! Through a unique approach, I work with children, teenagers, and adults to develop their sense of selves, decrease stress, and establish rewarding relationships. Having this space has helped many people better understand and manage their lives. Also proficient in complex psychological testing for Autism, ADHD, PTSD, BPD.
Relationships are challenging - even in the best circumstances. This is certainly true when building or maintaining a relationship with someone who feels stressed, sad, or acting out in anger. Many people today feel overwhelmed, alone, judged or misunderstood. There is hope, though, in that you can be the solution! Through a unique approach, I work with children, teenagers, and adults to develop their sense of selves, decrease stress, and establish rewarding relationships. Having this space has helped many people better understand and manage their lives. Also proficient in complex psychological testing for Autism, ADHD, PTSD, BPD.
(949) 991-4213 View (949) 991-4213
Photo of Lisa Bahar, MA, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisa Bahar
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
I enjoy working with individuals, couples, groups and families. My treatment approach is to provide support and insight to help clients address current life challenges and long standing issues. I use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) as a primary intervention and skills training for those clients seeking solutions for issues related to emotional regulation, interpersonal communication breakdowns, and difficulties in managing stress and personal balance.
I enjoy working with individuals, couples, groups and families. My treatment approach is to provide support and insight to help clients address current life challenges and long standing issues. I use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) as a primary intervention and skills training for those clients seeking solutions for issues related to emotional regulation, interpersonal communication breakdowns, and difficulties in managing stress and personal balance.
(949) 212-2081 View (949) 212-2081
Photo of Doug Pleiman, LCSW, LAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Doug Pleiman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Finding a therapist that you 'click' with goes a long way in making progress towards your goals. The first session is free to ensure the goodness of fit. I've been practicing as a clinician since 2014 and specialize in the treatment of trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, low self-esteem, eating disorders, personality disorders, and addictions (substances, sex, gaming, scrolling, shopping, gambling, etc).
Finding a therapist that you 'click' with goes a long way in making progress towards your goals. The first session is free to ensure the goodness of fit. I've been practicing as a clinician since 2014 and specialize in the treatment of trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, low self-esteem, eating disorders, personality disorders, and addictions (substances, sex, gaming, scrolling, shopping, gambling, etc).
(949) 997-1583 View (949) 997-1583
Photo of Christopher Hawkey, PhD, Psychologist
Christopher Hawkey
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Laguna Beach, CA 92607  (Online Only)
Welcome! Many people who find their way to my profile are in search of relief. Some are seeking peace in a life dominated by big and difficult-to-control emotions. Others hope to free themselves from a seemingly never-ending battle with sadness or worry thoughts. Some just want to sleep or learn to live without the weight of past traumatic events. Regardless of the specific reason for your visit here, you are undoubtedly on a path to reduce your suffering and maximize your fulfillment in this one precious life.
Welcome! Many people who find their way to my profile are in search of relief. Some are seeking peace in a life dominated by big and difficult-to-control emotions. Others hope to free themselves from a seemingly never-ending battle with sadness or worry thoughts. Some just want to sleep or learn to live without the weight of past traumatic events. Regardless of the specific reason for your visit here, you are undoubtedly on a path to reduce your suffering and maximize your fulfillment in this one precious life.
(949) 919-5507 View (949) 919-5507
Photo of Dr. Sean B. Harris, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Sean B. Harris
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Laguna Hills, CA 92653
Are you or your family facing overwhelming emotions, self-doubt, or intense behaviors? Life can feel heavy when you’re stuck in cycles that seem unbreakable, but change is possible. At DBT Pathways, I specialize in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for children, teens, and young adults, offering individual therapy, family therapy, and parent coaching. My approach helps clients build resilience and develop essential skills to manage distress, regulate emotions, and improve relationships, all while fostering self-compassion and uncovering personal strengths.
Are you or your family facing overwhelming emotions, self-doubt, or intense behaviors? Life can feel heavy when you’re stuck in cycles that seem unbreakable, but change is possible. At DBT Pathways, I specialize in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for children, teens, and young adults, offering individual therapy, family therapy, and parent coaching. My approach helps clients build resilience and develop essential skills to manage distress, regulate emotions, and improve relationships, all while fostering self-compassion and uncovering personal strengths.
(949) 229-5790 View (949) 229-5790
Photo of Andrea D Schoon, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Andrea D Schoon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
When you have tried to resolve issues on your own, and things just aren't changing, it is time to seek professional help. Perhaps your or your significant other's past and unresolved issues are what is creating the distress; an inability to trust, to feel joy and happiness, to pursue dreams. It is important to seek help early on so that things do not worsen. Whether you are seeking marriage counseling, individual therapy, or therapy for your teen, I can help you get on track to a healthier more fulfilling life.
When you have tried to resolve issues on your own, and things just aren't changing, it is time to seek professional help. Perhaps your or your significant other's past and unresolved issues are what is creating the distress; an inability to trust, to feel joy and happiness, to pursue dreams. It is important to seek help early on so that things do not worsen. Whether you are seeking marriage counseling, individual therapy, or therapy for your teen, I can help you get on track to a healthier more fulfilling life.
(714) 942-5618 View (714) 942-5618
Photo of Elise Marie Collier, MS, LMFT, CEMDR, CAS, CPAP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elise Marie Collier
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CEMDR, CAS, CPAP
Verified Verified
Laguna Hills, CA 92654
Elise Collier is a seasoned therapist specializing in adverse childhood experiences, CPTSD, depression, anxiety, dissociation, and addiction. Since 2009, she has honed her expertise in residential treatment facilities, intensive outpatient programs, and private practice. Elise's extensive training includes Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Psychodrama, Mindfulness, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and attachment-based Somatic Experiencing. She holds certifications in EMDR, Structural Dissociation Integration Therapy, and Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy. Elise also helps clients weave their spiritual practices in their healing journey.
Elise Collier is a seasoned therapist specializing in adverse childhood experiences, CPTSD, depression, anxiety, dissociation, and addiction. Since 2009, she has honed her expertise in residential treatment facilities, intensive outpatient programs, and private practice. Elise's extensive training includes Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Psychodrama, Mindfulness, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and attachment-based Somatic Experiencing. She holds certifications in EMDR, Structural Dissociation Integration Therapy, and Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy. Elise also helps clients weave their spiritual practices in their healing journey.
(562) 741-8670 View (562) 741-8670
Photo of Dawn Nelson - Cornell Counseling & Behavioral Health, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cornell Counseling & Behavioral Health
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Aliso Viejo, CA 92656
As Psychologists, and Marriage & Family Therapists, we treat hundreds of patients and understand the intricacies of various psychological issues that people face. Combining traditional Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with Coaching, we have successfully treated patients with Anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Depression, Behavioral Issues, Relationship Issues, ADHD, and a host of other issues. Unlike traditional therapy that relies heavily on the past and understanding why you do what you do, Cornell Counseling and Behavioral Health is focused on helping you with the tools to move forward and create change. We have a more collaborative and goal-oriented approach to treatment.
As Psychologists, and Marriage & Family Therapists, we treat hundreds of patients and understand the intricacies of various psychological issues that people face. Combining traditional Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with Coaching, we have successfully treated patients with Anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Depression, Behavioral Issues, Relationship Issues, ADHD, and a host of other issues. Unlike traditional therapy that relies heavily on the past and understanding why you do what you do, Cornell Counseling and Behavioral Health is focused on helping you with the tools to move forward and create change. We have a more collaborative and goal-oriented approach to treatment.
(949) 763-4203 View (949) 763-4203
Photo of Mcayla Sarno, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mcayla Sarno
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laguna Hills, CA 92653
I am a certified EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Therapist with a focus on trauma and Post traumatic stress (PTSD) and Performance Enhancement for athletes, performers, and entrepreneurs. Additionally, I treat individuals working to overcome obstacles or are just feeling "stuck." Immediate symptom reduction includes anxiety, depression, repeated patterns of behavior, obsessive & addictive behaviors, lack of focus, insecurities and confidence issues. For some clients conventional talk therapy is extremely effective. For others, a more aggressive approach which is what prompted my EMDR 5 Day Intensive program. This includes 5 consecutive days of on-going EMDR which continues to prove amazing results!
I am a certified EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Therapist with a focus on trauma and Post traumatic stress (PTSD) and Performance Enhancement for athletes, performers, and entrepreneurs. Additionally, I treat individuals working to overcome obstacles or are just feeling "stuck." Immediate symptom reduction includes anxiety, depression, repeated patterns of behavior, obsessive & addictive behaviors, lack of focus, insecurities and confidence issues. For some clients conventional talk therapy is extremely effective. For others, a more aggressive approach which is what prompted my EMDR 5 Day Intensive program. This includes 5 consecutive days of on-going EMDR which continues to prove amazing results!
(213) 465-3481 View (213) 465-3481
Photo of Alexandria Bekele, ACSW, CATC VI
Alexandria Bekele
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW, CATC VI
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
When thinking about how to introduce myself, I invariably return to what I personally require when choosing a therapist – genuine commitment, personal sincerity, and clinical expertise. I'm dedicated to the core belief that a good therapist is one who gently guides a client to uncover the emotional stumbling blocks causing anxiety, pain, or inertia so that the person can move forward in life. My therapeutic style exudes compassion, while equally engaging in honest, candid conversations to uncover the personal pain points, challenges, and stressors that bring a client to therapy.
When thinking about how to introduce myself, I invariably return to what I personally require when choosing a therapist – genuine commitment, personal sincerity, and clinical expertise. I'm dedicated to the core belief that a good therapist is one who gently guides a client to uncover the emotional stumbling blocks causing anxiety, pain, or inertia so that the person can move forward in life. My therapeutic style exudes compassion, while equally engaging in honest, candid conversations to uncover the personal pain points, challenges, and stressors that bring a client to therapy.
(949) 868-9558 View (949) 868-9558
Photo of Jennifer Bouras - Journey to Peace Therapy, Inc., LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Journey to Peace Therapy, Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Aliso Viejo, CA 92656  (Online Only)
Welcome to Journey to Peace Therapy- my name is Jennifer Bouras and I specialize in working with adults who are experiencing depression, anxiety, anger, major life transitions, relationship issues, domestic violence, suicidal ideation, and have a history of traumatic experiences. Are you feeling overwhelmed- that life is a bit "much" and are finding it difficult to cope? Maybe you are experiencing anxiety, physical symptoms, or depression? Perhaps past trauma is resurfacing or you are going through a major life transition such as death/grief, divorce, job loss.
Welcome to Journey to Peace Therapy- my name is Jennifer Bouras and I specialize in working with adults who are experiencing depression, anxiety, anger, major life transitions, relationship issues, domestic violence, suicidal ideation, and have a history of traumatic experiences. Are you feeling overwhelmed- that life is a bit "much" and are finding it difficult to cope? Maybe you are experiencing anxiety, physical symptoms, or depression? Perhaps past trauma is resurfacing or you are going through a major life transition such as death/grief, divorce, job loss.
(949) 704-5919 View (949) 704-5919
Photo of Lgbtq Therapist Brooklynn Kendall, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lgbtq Therapist Brooklynn Kendall
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Beach, CA 92653
I have extensive training in work within the LGBTQ community, their allies, kink and polyamorous communities I have specialized my work with those who feel "othered." My past and current work involves questions surrounding relationships, sexuality and gender, couples working through whether to get married, stay together, navigating separation with families, and healing relationship wounds. I founded The Nest Counseling Center to provide opportunities for Associate Therapists to continue their education in providing therapy to the LGBTQ Community.
I have extensive training in work within the LGBTQ community, their allies, kink and polyamorous communities I have specialized my work with those who feel "othered." My past and current work involves questions surrounding relationships, sexuality and gender, couples working through whether to get married, stay together, navigating separation with families, and healing relationship wounds. I founded The Nest Counseling Center to provide opportunities for Associate Therapists to continue their education in providing therapy to the LGBTQ Community.
(657) 317-7870 View (657) 317-7870
Photo of Julie K Peters, MA, APCC, LCPC, Counselor
Julie K Peters
Counselor, MA, APCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Welcome, I bring a strong skill base working in LGBTQIA+, addiction and PTSD communitites. I love working with Couples and families, and I'm passionate about helping students navigate studying and self-care. I'm here to help you utilize your innate creativity, and I'm excited to aid you as you enact new patterns in your relationship with yourself and others. You will experience me as an affirming clinician who values and acknowledges your marginalized identity and the intersection of the many roles you embody. You can expect kindness from me and a treatment space that expands to allow your unique perspective to shine.
Welcome, I bring a strong skill base working in LGBTQIA+, addiction and PTSD communitites. I love working with Couples and families, and I'm passionate about helping students navigate studying and self-care. I'm here to help you utilize your innate creativity, and I'm excited to aid you as you enact new patterns in your relationship with yourself and others. You will experience me as an affirming clinician who values and acknowledges your marginalized identity and the intersection of the many roles you embody. You can expect kindness from me and a treatment space that expands to allow your unique perspective to shine.
(309) 724-1083 View (309) 724-1083
Photo of Kimberly DeLamar Matties, MA, MFT, PsyD, Counselor
Kimberly DeLamar Matties
Counselor, MA, MFT, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Do you struggle with anxiety and/or depression? Are you lonely or dissatisfied with your current relationship? Do you have difficulty getting past traumatic events in you life? Have you tried to solve your problems on your own but find yourself struggling with the same issues again and again? If you answered "yes" to any of the above, please do not hesitate to contact me. You are not alone and I would love to provide you with support and solutions to help you live your best life!
Do you struggle with anxiety and/or depression? Are you lonely or dissatisfied with your current relationship? Do you have difficulty getting past traumatic events in you life? Have you tried to solve your problems on your own but find yourself struggling with the same issues again and again? If you answered "yes" to any of the above, please do not hesitate to contact me. You are not alone and I would love to provide you with support and solutions to help you live your best life!
(949) 390-9896 View (949) 390-9896

See more therapy options for Laguna Woods

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.