Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in Hyde Park, Los Angeles, CA

Photo of La Tisha San Pedro-Lintag, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
La Tisha San Pedro-Lintag
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hyde Park, Los Angeles, CA 90043
My goal in therapy is to help individuals live and behave in ways consistent with their personal values while developing psychological flexibility. I specialize in somatic therapy, helping individuals reconnect with their authentic selves from a mind, body, and spirit approach. I have many years of experience providing collegiate-level counseling services. I also specialize in working with individuals diagnosed with borderline personality disorder and complex trauma.
My goal in therapy is to help individuals live and behave in ways consistent with their personal values while developing psychological flexibility. I specialize in somatic therapy, helping individuals reconnect with their authentic selves from a mind, body, and spirit approach. I have many years of experience providing collegiate-level counseling services. I also specialize in working with individuals diagnosed with borderline personality disorder and complex trauma.
(619) 273-0831 View (619) 273-0831
Photo of Ady Benyishay, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ady Benyishay
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hyde Park, Los Angeles, CA 90043
My experience started in 2010, working in an inpatient facility for an eating disorder residential program for about two years. From there, I moved on to working as a therapist at a residential program treating adolescents with dual diagnoses. I also opened my private practice at that time and saw clients remotely. Currently, I’m working at Sober Living, helping adults deal with various addictions And mental health as well as seeing couples, families, and individuals through Telehealth. The modalities that I use often are CBT, DBT solution focus, and psychodynamic.
My experience started in 2010, working in an inpatient facility for an eating disorder residential program for about two years. From there, I moved on to working as a therapist at a residential program treating adolescents with dual diagnoses. I also opened my private practice at that time and saw clients remotely. Currently, I’m working at Sober Living, helping adults deal with various addictions And mental health as well as seeing couples, families, and individuals through Telehealth. The modalities that I use often are CBT, DBT solution focus, and psychodynamic.
(323) 861-3466 View (323) 861-3466
Photo of Ashlyn Cherry, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashlyn Cherry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hyde Park, Los Angeles, CA 90043
My name is Ashlyn Cherry, LCSW, and I have been a licensed therapist since 2005 in California. I use an integrative approach pulling from multiple evidence-based therapies to help individuals and couples deal with a broad range of challenges. I tailor treatment to the client's specific and unique needs, working toward goals set by the client. Modalities utilized include DBT (dialectical behavior therapy), CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy, ERP (exposure and response prevention), humanistic, psychodynamic, strength-based, trauma-informed, and narrative.
My name is Ashlyn Cherry, LCSW, and I have been a licensed therapist since 2005 in California. I use an integrative approach pulling from multiple evidence-based therapies to help individuals and couples deal with a broad range of challenges. I tailor treatment to the client's specific and unique needs, working toward goals set by the client. Modalities utilized include DBT (dialectical behavior therapy), CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy, ERP (exposure and response prevention), humanistic, psychodynamic, strength-based, trauma-informed, and narrative.
(323) 673-2492 View (323) 673-2492
Photo of Kathryn Hedjasi, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kathryn Hedjasi
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hyde Park, Los Angeles, CA 90043
Kathryn Hedjasi, M.A., MBA, LMFT82193 "I have served the Bay Area community for more than 15 years and also worked as a counselor in Southern California prior to relocating to this amazing and diverse SF Bay Area community. I cumulatively possess 18+ years of counseling experience in a wide array of venues, positions, and target populations. I adore my work and truly feel called to this type of work. I believe that all of us have a purpose and the ability to THRIVE regardless of what cards we may have been dealt. My vast professional and personal experiences have taught me to never underestimate the resilience and ability to heal.
Kathryn Hedjasi, M.A., MBA, LMFT82193 "I have served the Bay Area community for more than 15 years and also worked as a counselor in Southern California prior to relocating to this amazing and diverse SF Bay Area community. I cumulatively possess 18+ years of counseling experience in a wide array of venues, positions, and target populations. I adore my work and truly feel called to this type of work. I believe that all of us have a purpose and the ability to THRIVE regardless of what cards we may have been dealt. My vast professional and personal experiences have taught me to never underestimate the resilience and ability to heal.
(323) 970-2648 View (323) 970-2648
Photo of Jack L Gorham, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jack L Gorham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Hyde Park, Los Angeles, CA 90043
You've taken the first step in addressing the barriers preventing you from living your life to the fullest. Individual therapy can be a beneficial experience as we navigate difficult times in your personal life including work, home, and family. I will provide a safe, non-judgmental therapeutic environment to embark on self exploration and the development of individual techniques used to overcome depression, anxiety, trauma and life adjustments.
You've taken the first step in addressing the barriers preventing you from living your life to the fullest. Individual therapy can be a beneficial experience as we navigate difficult times in your personal life including work, home, and family. I will provide a safe, non-judgmental therapeutic environment to embark on self exploration and the development of individual techniques used to overcome depression, anxiety, trauma and life adjustments.
(619) 825-2360 View (619) 825-2360
Photo of Amber Skye Rickert, LCSW, MPH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amber Skye Rickert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MPH
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hyde Park, Los Angeles, CA 90043
I see individuals and couples who are looking to lead more loving connected lives. I assist couples to resolve long standing, repetitive conflict cycles using a method called Dialogue Therapy (DT). DT is a structured, time limited, and clear method using mindfulness and curiosity to help decrease cycles of frustration, anger, and shame between the couple. This helps to increase empathy, intimacy, and closeness. My ideal client is interested in deepening their connection to themselves and others. I am licensed in Vermont and California and can see individuals and couples in either location.
I see individuals and couples who are looking to lead more loving connected lives. I assist couples to resolve long standing, repetitive conflict cycles using a method called Dialogue Therapy (DT). DT is a structured, time limited, and clear method using mindfulness and curiosity to help decrease cycles of frustration, anger, and shame between the couple. This helps to increase empathy, intimacy, and closeness. My ideal client is interested in deepening their connection to themselves and others. I am licensed in Vermont and California and can see individuals and couples in either location.
(323) 498-2401 View (323) 498-2401
Photo of Marilyn Julia Brown, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marilyn Julia Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hyde Park, Los Angeles, CA 90043  (Online Only)
Are feeling lost in life? Is your confidence is at an all-time low? Are you are seeking a sense of meaning or purpose in your life that you can't seem to find no matter how hard you try? Do you wish you could just switch it all off and unplug from what's happening? Do you just feel like something is missing in your life? If so, I'm here to help. I am an authentic, engaging, soulful healer who uses my identity as a Black-disabled woman to provide culturally, LGBTQIA, disability, and gender-affirming care.
Are feeling lost in life? Is your confidence is at an all-time low? Are you are seeking a sense of meaning or purpose in your life that you can't seem to find no matter how hard you try? Do you wish you could just switch it all off and unplug from what's happening? Do you just feel like something is missing in your life? If so, I'm here to help. I am an authentic, engaging, soulful healer who uses my identity as a Black-disabled woman to provide culturally, LGBTQIA, disability, and gender-affirming care.
(424) 788-4580 View (424) 788-4580
Photo of Cheryl D Casey, MS, LMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cheryl D Casey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Hyde Park, Los Angeles, CA 90043  (Online Only)
The journey of life can be a challenging one. We are often faced with situations and events that challenge us. Sometimes we feel alone, confused, uncertain, or afraid. We seek comfort and understanding. We want change, but are not sure how or what steps to take. We seek safety, security, and purpose. I will help you navigate through life challenges and help you gently face your deepest struggles.
The journey of life can be a challenging one. We are often faced with situations and events that challenge us. Sometimes we feel alone, confused, uncertain, or afraid. We seek comfort and understanding. We want change, but are not sure how or what steps to take. We seek safety, security, and purpose. I will help you navigate through life challenges and help you gently face your deepest struggles.
(714) 627-4897 View (714) 627-4897
Photo of Monica A Ellison, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Monica A Ellison
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hyde Park, Los Angeles, CA 90043
Your courage and resilience have gotten you this far and while seeking help is half the battle, I am here to guide you the rest of the journey. I work with clients to provide a safe space to address a variety of issues ranging from trauma, depression, anxiety, shame, grief, self-esteem and relationship difficulties and challenges. Together we can develop a new narrative about yourself and your potential while addressing past traumas and developing coping strategies to manage current and future challenges. I aim to assist clients overcome personal challenges, to create and maintain healthy and productive lives.
Your courage and resilience have gotten you this far and while seeking help is half the battle, I am here to guide you the rest of the journey. I work with clients to provide a safe space to address a variety of issues ranging from trauma, depression, anxiety, shame, grief, self-esteem and relationship difficulties and challenges. Together we can develop a new narrative about yourself and your potential while addressing past traumas and developing coping strategies to manage current and future challenges. I aim to assist clients overcome personal challenges, to create and maintain healthy and productive lives.
(323) 406-7442 View (323) 406-7442
Photo of Maureen C Sanders, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maureen C Sanders
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hyde Park, Los Angeles, CA 90043  (Online Only)
I have 30 years of experience, skills, knowledge, and education in the areas of Social Work, and mental health. I am experienced in evidenced-based practices, trauma-focused treatment, and solution-focused brief therapy. I provide the following services: Individual therapy, family therapy/co-parenting therapy, children's therapy, and divorce therapy. I also provide supervision hours for unlicensed MSW'S and MFT'S.
I have 30 years of experience, skills, knowledge, and education in the areas of Social Work, and mental health. I am experienced in evidenced-based practices, trauma-focused treatment, and solution-focused brief therapy. I provide the following services: Individual therapy, family therapy/co-parenting therapy, children's therapy, and divorce therapy. I also provide supervision hours for unlicensed MSW'S and MFT'S.
(424) 903-2509 View (424) 903-2509

Online Therapists

Photo of Karen Yeh, JD, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Karen Yeh
Marriage & Family Therapist, JD, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90004  (Online Only)
I am a DBT therapist specializing in BPD, C-PTSD and other versions of emotion dysregulation. I use primarily DBT to help people who want to work on understanding their emotions better in order to feel more in control of their lives. Learning our emotions more clearly can help us come to a greater understanding of who we are and why. I also help my clients envision the lives they want to have and who they want to be and then work towards those goals. As an Asian-American therapist, I also work with children of immigrants and bicultural folks to find acceptance and peace through this new understanding of themselves.
I am a DBT therapist specializing in BPD, C-PTSD and other versions of emotion dysregulation. I use primarily DBT to help people who want to work on understanding their emotions better in order to feel more in control of their lives. Learning our emotions more clearly can help us come to a greater understanding of who we are and why. I also help my clients envision the lives they want to have and who they want to be and then work towards those goals. As an Asian-American therapist, I also work with children of immigrants and bicultural folks to find acceptance and peace through this new understanding of themselves.
(415) 915-4437 View (415) 915-4437
Photo of Kristin L Walker, PhD, Psychologist
Kristin L Walker
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90024
At PEAKPsychLA, I specialize in suicide prevention, mood disorders, and personality disorders (including Borderline PD and Narcissistic PD).
Hello! I am a Licensed Psychologist and the founder of PEAKPsychLA - a private psychotherapy practice in Westwood near UCLA. I work with teenagers, adolescents, and adults who are experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, intense or overwhelming emotions, and alcohol/drug misuse. I also work with people living with major mood disorders and personality disorders. If you are struggling with any of these experiences, want to feel better, and are looking for someone you can trust to help, I provide individual therapy, couples, and/or family therapy, in person and via remote telehealth services.
At PEAKPsychLA, I specialize in suicide prevention, mood disorders, and personality disorders (including Borderline PD and Narcissistic PD).
Hello! I am a Licensed Psychologist and the founder of PEAKPsychLA - a private psychotherapy practice in Westwood near UCLA. I work with teenagers, adolescents, and adults who are experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, intense or overwhelming emotions, and alcohol/drug misuse. I also work with people living with major mood disorders and personality disorders. If you are struggling with any of these experiences, want to feel better, and are looking for someone you can trust to help, I provide individual therapy, couples, and/or family therapy, in person and via remote telehealth services.
(310) 340-0360 View (310) 340-0360
Photo of Ciara Bogdanovic, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ciara Bogdanovic
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90012
I specialize in working with highly sensitive individuals, complex trauma, and Borderline Personality Disorder.
Are you seeking clarity, peace, and stability? Perhaps you have been to therapy before and are seeking a new approach. Maybe you feel trapped by big emotions, anxiety, or trauma and can’t see a way out. Through my own healing, constant curiosity, and rigorous training I have developed an approach that allows my clients to thrive.
I specialize in working with highly sensitive individuals, complex trauma, and Borderline Personality Disorder.
Are you seeking clarity, peace, and stability? Perhaps you have been to therapy before and are seeking a new approach. Maybe you feel trapped by big emotions, anxiety, or trauma and can’t see a way out. Through my own healing, constant curiosity, and rigorous training I have developed an approach that allows my clients to thrive.
(323) 615-1164 View (323) 615-1164
Photo of Amie M. Roe, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amie M. Roe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90230  (Online Only)
I do this by staying unrelentingly curious and putting my mind to work alongside yours using Mentalization Based Treatment (MBT), an evidence based treatment for Borderline Personality Disorder ( BPD).
When my clients first come to me, their lives feel chaotic and out of control. No matter what they do, they can’t seem to break free from recurrent depression, major ups and downs in their mood, and significant difficulties in their relationships. All they want is to feel more peace within themselves and in the relationships that matter to them the most. They want to be able to live life on their terms, and yet, this keeps on eluding them, even though they might be really accomplished in other areas of their life, like work.
I do this by staying unrelentingly curious and putting my mind to work alongside yours using Mentalization Based Treatment (MBT), an evidence based treatment for Borderline Personality Disorder ( BPD).
When my clients first come to me, their lives feel chaotic and out of control. No matter what they do, they can’t seem to break free from recurrent depression, major ups and downs in their mood, and significant difficulties in their relationships. All they want is to feel more peace within themselves and in the relationships that matter to them the most. They want to be able to live life on their terms, and yet, this keeps on eluding them, even though they might be really accomplished in other areas of their life, like work.
(347) 673-0604 View (347) 673-0604
Photo of Catherine Speckmann, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Catherine Speckmann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90063
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.
(323) 529-0964 View (323) 529-0964
Photo of Ciaran Kane Phelps, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Ciaran Kane Phelps
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90005
My work often centers around folks who are experiencing grief or loss, healing from trauma, navigating life transitions, or experiencing relational challenges. My areas of specialty are neurodivergence (autism, ADHD, etc.), gender exploration, BPD, and cPTSD, but I love working with folks who have diversity of life experiences. I offer a queer- trans- and ND-affirming space. I have familiarity with spiritual and religious trauma. I offer a sex-work affirming space as well. I bring a liberatory, decolonial, postmodern, and trauma-informed framework into my work. I support individual adults, kids, families, and couples.
My work often centers around folks who are experiencing grief or loss, healing from trauma, navigating life transitions, or experiencing relational challenges. My areas of specialty are neurodivergence (autism, ADHD, etc.), gender exploration, BPD, and cPTSD, but I love working with folks who have diversity of life experiences. I offer a queer- trans- and ND-affirming space. I have familiarity with spiritual and religious trauma. I offer a sex-work affirming space as well. I bring a liberatory, decolonial, postmodern, and trauma-informed framework into my work. I support individual adults, kids, families, and couples.
(424) 363-4350 View (424) 363-4350
Photo of Dr. Kelly A Williams, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Kelly A Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90064
Welcome! I want you to know that engaging in counseling is not an admission of failure. On the contrary, it is a bold statement of growth and strength. I specialize in Borderline Personality Disorder, Couples and Marital Counseling, and Trauma. Most of my clients find me easy to talk to and appreciate my practical and relational approach to treatment. Call for a free consultation - ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. I accept Private Payors, Cigna, Blue Shield of California, Magellan, United Healthcare, and Optum Health Insurance.
Welcome! I want you to know that engaging in counseling is not an admission of failure. On the contrary, it is a bold statement of growth and strength. I specialize in Borderline Personality Disorder, Couples and Marital Counseling, and Trauma. Most of my clients find me easy to talk to and appreciate my practical and relational approach to treatment. Call for a free consultation - ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. I accept Private Payors, Cigna, Blue Shield of California, Magellan, United Healthcare, and Optum Health Insurance.
(818) 287-0456 View (818) 287-0456
Photo of Merceydes Morassi, MS, BCBA, LPCC, LMHC, Counselor
Merceydes Morassi
Counselor, MS, BCBA, LPCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90012
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 Kathleen Rude Carlin - LA Somatic Therapy, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
LA Somatic Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90026
As well, I’ve worked with many children/partners of those who exhibit traits of borderline or narcissism.
Hello! I’m Kate, a collaborative, relational, trauma-informed, and LGBTQ+ affirmative therapist. For 10+ years now, I’ve aimed to provide a safe, empowering space where we can slow down & untangle all the messiness of being a human. My hope is always for my clients come away with a greater sense of knowing themselves, more personal agency, & confidence that they can navigate the inevitable challenges of their future. I strive to embody a lens that is feminist, anti-racist & anti-oppressive in this work. My training includes Hakomi Mindful Somatic Therapy, Attachment-Focused EMDR & Emotionally-Focused Couples Therapy.
As well, I’ve worked with many children/partners of those who exhibit traits of borderline or narcissism.
Hello! I’m Kate, a collaborative, relational, trauma-informed, and LGBTQ+ affirmative therapist. For 10+ years now, I’ve aimed to provide a safe, empowering space where we can slow down & untangle all the messiness of being a human. My hope is always for my clients come away with a greater sense of knowing themselves, more personal agency, & confidence that they can navigate the inevitable challenges of their future. I strive to embody a lens that is feminist, anti-racist & anti-oppressive in this work. My training includes Hakomi Mindful Somatic Therapy, Attachment-Focused EMDR & Emotionally-Focused Couples Therapy.
(310) 340-1612 View (310) 340-1612
Photo of Kayla Uggetti, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kayla Uggetti
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90036
With extensive experience, I specialize in DBT for teens & adults facing BPD, anxiety, and depression.
Are you struggling with overwhelming emotions, anxiety, or depression? Do you feel like your relationships are often challenging or that your thoughts and feelings are difficult to manage? As a licensed therapist specializing in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), I am here to help you navigate these complex emotions and find a path to a more balanced and fulfilling life. Together, we can work towards helping you become more in tune with yourself by understanding the "why" and "now what?"
With extensive experience, I specialize in DBT for teens & adults facing BPD, anxiety, and depression.
Are you struggling with overwhelming emotions, anxiety, or depression? Do you feel like your relationships are often challenging or that your thoughts and feelings are difficult to manage? As a licensed therapist specializing in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), I am here to help you navigate these complex emotions and find a path to a more balanced and fulfilling life. Together, we can work towards helping you become more in tune with yourself by understanding the "why" and "now what?"
(310) 734-4345 View (310) 734-4345

See more therapy options for Hyde Park, Los Angeles

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.