Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in Pacoima, CA

Photo of Peter Bippus, LPCC, Counselor
Peter Bippus
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Pacoima, CA 91331
Hi, I'm Peter Bippus, LMFT, LPCC, and I am an unconventional therapist whose approach is refreshingly modern, practical and skills-based. I focus on difficult-to-reach populations and work closely with male survivors of abuse. By now, you are well educated in mental health, and may have been in therapy before. You are familiar with breathing exercises, mindfulness, meditation, and so on...while these approaches do work well, you know that there must be other skills and tools out there but have yet to come across anything new.
Hi, I'm Peter Bippus, LMFT, LPCC, and I am an unconventional therapist whose approach is refreshingly modern, practical and skills-based. I focus on difficult-to-reach populations and work closely with male survivors of abuse. By now, you are well educated in mental health, and may have been in therapy before. You are familiar with breathing exercises, mindfulness, meditation, and so on...while these approaches do work well, you know that there must be other skills and tools out there but have yet to come across anything new.
(747) 298-8658 View (747) 298-8658
Photo of Karen Fischer, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Karen Fischer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pacoima, CA 91331
Hi there, I'm Karen, I am passionate about helping you to heal and grow in relationship with yourself and others. I am a licensed Marriage and Family therapist. My approach is to listen to you and respond in ways that are tailored to your unique needs and circumstances. I want to get to know you first thoroughly and help you to explore pathways to growth and healing. I have worked over the past 23 years with both individuals and families. I experienced assisting military families and veterans returning from deployment experiencing re-integration problems and PSTD.
Hi there, I'm Karen, I am passionate about helping you to heal and grow in relationship with yourself and others. I am a licensed Marriage and Family therapist. My approach is to listen to you and respond in ways that are tailored to your unique needs and circumstances. I want to get to know you first thoroughly and help you to explore pathways to growth and healing. I have worked over the past 23 years with both individuals and families. I experienced assisting military families and veterans returning from deployment experiencing re-integration problems and PSTD.
(747) 318-4401 View (747) 318-4401
Photo of Mary Sowah-Quaye, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Sowah-Quaye
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pacoima, CA 91331
My name is Mary Sowah-Quaye, and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I provide psychotherapy and counseling for adults 18 and older. I've worked in many different settings with individuals and families who have a variety of personal issues such as depression/anxiety, bipolar, stress, family problems, and relationships issues. My approach combines person centered, cognitive behavioral therapies and motivational interviewing and mindfulness.
My name is Mary Sowah-Quaye, and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I provide psychotherapy and counseling for adults 18 and older. I've worked in many different settings with individuals and families who have a variety of personal issues such as depression/anxiety, bipolar, stress, family problems, and relationships issues. My approach combines person centered, cognitive behavioral therapies and motivational interviewing and mindfulness.
(909) 671-1835 View (909) 671-1835
Photo of Martha Saavedra, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Martha Saavedra
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pacoima, CA 91331
At some point in our lives we must cope with distress and pain, whether, it is related to changes within our family system, job related issues, or just the chaos and turmoil of our day to day life. These stressful situations can result in overwhelming emotions ranging from sadness, to fear and anger. Therapy can be a safe, non-judgmental place to help you explore these issues, unlock your inner-wisdom and identify key skills to help you manage difficult situations. The objective in treatment is to develop an individualized plan that offers you the opportunity to explore underlying needs and gain insight on ways to manage emotions, heal from past trauma, and accomplish self-love.
At some point in our lives we must cope with distress and pain, whether, it is related to changes within our family system, job related issues, or just the chaos and turmoil of our day to day life. These stressful situations can result in overwhelming emotions ranging from sadness, to fear and anger. Therapy can be a safe, non-judgmental place to help you explore these issues, unlock your inner-wisdom and identify key skills to help you manage difficult situations. The objective in treatment is to develop an individualized plan that offers you the opportunity to explore underlying needs and gain insight on ways to manage emotions, heal from past trauma, and accomplish self-love.
(661) 451-7507 View (661) 451-7507

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Laurie Boxer, PhD, Psychologist
Laurie Boxer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91436
Boxer has received intensive training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for the treatment of emotion and behavioral dysregulation typically, but not exclusively, associated with Borderline Personality Disorder.
Dr. Laurie Boxer is a licensed psychologist in private practice as well as clinical director of an outpatient treatment program at a medical center. A graduate of UCLA and Syracuse University, with over 20 years of clinical practice, Dr. Boxer has expertise in treating a broad range of psychological conditions and interpersonal problems. Dr. Boxer has advanced professional training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Treatment, Marital Therapy. Dr. Boxer employs empirically based approaches to the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder, and other anxiety disorders, mood disorders, emotion regulation problems, and relationship issues.
Boxer has received intensive training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for the treatment of emotion and behavioral dysregulation typically, but not exclusively, associated with Borderline Personality Disorder.
Dr. Laurie Boxer is a licensed psychologist in private practice as well as clinical director of an outpatient treatment program at a medical center. A graduate of UCLA and Syracuse University, with over 20 years of clinical practice, Dr. Boxer has expertise in treating a broad range of psychological conditions and interpersonal problems. Dr. Boxer has advanced professional training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Treatment, Marital Therapy. Dr. Boxer employs empirically based approaches to the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder, and other anxiety disorders, mood disorders, emotion regulation problems, and relationship issues.
(818) 660-0024 View (818) 660-0024
Photo of Megan Rich, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Megan Rich
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91436
Working with adults, adolescents and groups, I treat clinical issues including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, borderline personality disorder, low self esteem and relationship issues.
I provide client-centered and collaborative relational therapy informed by evidence-based treatments such as DBT, CBT, and ACT. My practice is rooted in compassion and self-determination and I help my clients dismantle the obstacles that hold them back from leading fulfilling lives. Together, we’ll identify your goals and values and build the skills required to live in line with both by exploring the personal historical patterns that have brought you to this point in your life.
Working with adults, adolescents and groups, I treat clinical issues including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, borderline personality disorder, low self esteem and relationship issues.
I provide client-centered and collaborative relational therapy informed by evidence-based treatments such as DBT, CBT, and ACT. My practice is rooted in compassion and self-determination and I help my clients dismantle the obstacles that hold them back from leading fulfilling lives. Together, we’ll identify your goals and values and build the skills required to live in line with both by exploring the personal historical patterns that have brought you to this point in your life.
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Photo of Kelsie Testa, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kelsie Testa
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with folks who struggle with borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, substance abuse and co-occurring disorders.
Hi, my name is Kelsie. For many of us, the response to painful thoughts, emotions and life events is to check out, numb, avoid or shut down. To me, therapy work is not about learning to get rid of all the "bad stuff." It’s about learning how to show up and keep going DESPITE the "bad stuff." I combine a warm and accepting style with concrete skills to help you regulate your emotions, tolerate distress, identify values and goals that make life worth living and challenge thought patterns that get in the way. Above all, my approach is collaborative: we will decide together what balance of those tools will work best for you.
I specialize in working with folks who struggle with borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, substance abuse and co-occurring disorders.
Hi, my name is Kelsie. For many of us, the response to painful thoughts, emotions and life events is to check out, numb, avoid or shut down. To me, therapy work is not about learning to get rid of all the "bad stuff." It’s about learning how to show up and keep going DESPITE the "bad stuff." I combine a warm and accepting style with concrete skills to help you regulate your emotions, tolerate distress, identify values and goals that make life worth living and challenge thought patterns that get in the way. Above all, my approach is collaborative: we will decide together what balance of those tools will work best for you.
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Photo of Dr. Kelly A Williams, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Kelly A Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
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 Shira B Feinstein, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Shira B Feinstein
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Encino, CA 91436
Do you keep having the same argument over and over with your partner? Let's figure out the underlying needs so you can change the dance. Are you constantly in your head with fear, anxiety, or traumatic memories running your life? Let's get you back in the driver's seat. Is a pattern of "blowing things up" ruining your relationships? I'll teach you tools to help you get what you really want. I specialize in couples therapy and treating adults with trauma, OCD, BPD, and anxiety disorders. Clients describe me as warm, non-judgmental, and validating.
Do you keep having the same argument over and over with your partner? Let's figure out the underlying needs so you can change the dance. Are you constantly in your head with fear, anxiety, or traumatic memories running your life? Let's get you back in the driver's seat. Is a pattern of "blowing things up" ruining your relationships? I'll teach you tools to help you get what you really want. I specialize in couples therapy and treating adults with trauma, OCD, BPD, and anxiety disorders. Clients describe me as warm, non-judgmental, and validating.
(213) 737-4522 View (213) 737-4522
Photo of Stephanie Drotman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Drotman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423  (Online Only)
DBT Family Classes are also available to families and loved ones of those struggling with BPD, SUD, or Bipolar Disorder.
Is your daily life chaotic and distressing? Do you struggle to navigate friendships or romantic relationships? Are there days you feel like you just cannot stop your thoughts from spiraling out of control? I am an intensively trained DBT therapist specializing in Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Complex Trauma, Relationship / Attachment issues, and Addictive / Co-Occurring Disorders. I utilize a non-judgmental, person-centered, strengths-based approach, incorporating additional evidence-based modalities such as ACT, CBT, Prolonged Exposure, TF-CBT, and IFS to help you begin to build your life worth living.
DBT Family Classes are also available to families and loved ones of those struggling with BPD, SUD, or Bipolar Disorder.
Is your daily life chaotic and distressing? Do you struggle to navigate friendships or romantic relationships? Are there days you feel like you just cannot stop your thoughts from spiraling out of control? I am an intensively trained DBT therapist specializing in Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Complex Trauma, Relationship / Attachment issues, and Addictive / Co-Occurring Disorders. I utilize a non-judgmental, person-centered, strengths-based approach, incorporating additional evidence-based modalities such as ACT, CBT, Prolonged Exposure, TF-CBT, and IFS to help you begin to build your life worth living.
(424) 334-2290 View (424) 334-2290
Photo of Kathleen B De Luca, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Kathleen B De Luca
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
North Hollywood, CA 91601  (Online Only)
My specialty is working with individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder utilizing DBT.
Life can sometimes feel unsafe, out of control, and desperate. We find ourselves overwhelmed by life transitions, stress, anxiety, or depression. Perhaps you’re struggling to find stability in most areas of life, particularly relationships, feeling trapped on the emotional rollercoaster and out of control of your responses in times of distress. These seasons leave us feeling isolated, hopeless, and not knowing where to turn. Everyone deserves a safe therapeutic space and a chance to build a life worth living. Allow me to help! I provide a warm, non-judgmental and collaborative space to heal, grow, and overcome these life challenges.
My specialty is working with individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder utilizing DBT.
Life can sometimes feel unsafe, out of control, and desperate. We find ourselves overwhelmed by life transitions, stress, anxiety, or depression. Perhaps you’re struggling to find stability in most areas of life, particularly relationships, feeling trapped on the emotional rollercoaster and out of control of your responses in times of distress. These seasons leave us feeling isolated, hopeless, and not knowing where to turn. Everyone deserves a safe therapeutic space and a chance to build a life worth living. Allow me to help! I provide a warm, non-judgmental and collaborative space to heal, grow, and overcome these life challenges.
(323) 645-1928 View (323) 645-1928
Photo of Dr. Brendan J Nierenberg, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Brendan J Nierenberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lake Balboa, CA 91406  (Online Only)
I have been very fortunate to work with a wide range of populations including traumatic brain injury, substance abuse, eating disorders, couples and relationship issues, gender identity issues, borderline personality disorder, and men's issues.
It takes a great amount of courage to be seeking a therapist as you are doing right now. You have made the choice to seek out help, and for that, I can say you are already on your journey of healing. In a session with me, you will find acceptance, understanding, and compassion with any challenge you are facing. No matter what your goal is, you don't have to do it alone.
I have been very fortunate to work with a wide range of populations including traumatic brain injury, substance abuse, eating disorders, couples and relationship issues, gender identity issues, borderline personality disorder, and men's issues.
It takes a great amount of courage to be seeking a therapist as you are doing right now. You have made the choice to seek out help, and for that, I can say you are already on your journey of healing. In a session with me, you will find acceptance, understanding, and compassion with any challenge you are facing. No matter what your goal is, you don't have to do it alone.
(805) 243-1580 View (805) 243-1580
Photo of Jessica Hancock, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jessica Hancock
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Panorama City, CA 91402
I have been working in community mental health for 14 years and have focused my clinical lens on treating trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use, and Borderline Personality Disorder utilizing DBT, ACT, and Harm Reduction. My goal as your therapist is to support you in developing an authentic relationship with yourself, integrating challenges, and achieving your identified goals for therapy. I enjoy working with clients who are open to learning and utilizing new skills. Therapy is typically only an hour a week, so clients need to practice skills outside of therapy to see progress.
I have been working in community mental health for 14 years and have focused my clinical lens on treating trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use, and Borderline Personality Disorder utilizing DBT, ACT, and Harm Reduction. My goal as your therapist is to support you in developing an authentic relationship with yourself, integrating challenges, and achieving your identified goals for therapy. I enjoy working with clients who are open to learning and utilizing new skills. Therapy is typically only an hour a week, so clients need to practice skills outside of therapy to see progress.
(747) 298-7413 View (747) 298-7413
Photo of Erica Christensen, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Erica Christensen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sylmar, CA 91342  (Online Only)
My name is Erica Christensen, I am a LMFT 141653. Specializing in therapy for young adults, adults, LGBTQIA+ clients, and women's issues, I offer a person-centered approach that fosters a supportive and empathetic therapeutic relationship. With a focus on trauma, anxiety, depression, and borderline clients, I aim to create a safe space where clients feel understood and empowered to explore their experiences.
My name is Erica Christensen, I am a LMFT 141653. Specializing in therapy for young adults, adults, LGBTQIA+ clients, and women's issues, I offer a person-centered approach that fosters a supportive and empathetic therapeutic relationship. With a focus on trauma, anxiety, depression, and borderline clients, I aim to create a safe space where clients feel understood and empowered to explore their experiences.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Alethea Hollingshead, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Alethea Hollingshead
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Panorama City, CA 91402
Hello there, I’m Alethea My name is Alethea Hollingshead, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based in Southern California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work primarily with individuals and adolescents and specialize in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, borderline personality disorder, and grief, using a psycho-dynamic approach that is tailored to each person’s path of growth and healing.
Hello there, I’m Alethea My name is Alethea Hollingshead, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based in Southern California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work primarily with individuals and adolescents and specialize in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, borderline personality disorder, and grief, using a psycho-dynamic approach that is tailored to each person’s path of growth and healing.
(747) 227-7631 View (747) 227-7631
Photo of Taji Huang - Dr. Taji Huang PhD, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Taji Huang PhD
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91207  (Online Only)
Additionally, I offer dialectical behavior therapy for those with borderline personality disorder.
Dr. Taji Huang is a compassionate and experienced Individual, Celebrity, and Adult Psychologist based in Glendale, California. With a strong dedication to helping others navigate challenging phases in their lives, Dr. Huang serves as a trusted Life Coach for individuals seeking support and guidance. Specializing in severe and persistent mental illness, couples counseling, trauma-related conditions, and more, she offers a comprehensive approach to mental health and well-being. If you are facing difficulties and seeking to regain control over your life, Dr. Taji Huang is here to support you.
Additionally, I offer dialectical behavior therapy for those with borderline personality disorder.
Dr. Taji Huang is a compassionate and experienced Individual, Celebrity, and Adult Psychologist based in Glendale, California. With a strong dedication to helping others navigate challenging phases in their lives, Dr. Huang serves as a trusted Life Coach for individuals seeking support and guidance. Specializing in severe and persistent mental illness, couples counseling, trauma-related conditions, and more, she offers a comprehensive approach to mental health and well-being. If you are facing difficulties and seeking to regain control over your life, Dr. Taji Huang is here to support you.
(424) 704-0198 View (424) 704-0198
Photo of Candace Taggart, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Candace Taggart
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Granada Hills, CA 91344
My name is Candace N Taggart, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I am licensed to provide therapy in the state of California and look forward to connecting soon! My specialty areas include trauma, borderline personality, anxiety, depression, adjustment difficulties, and grief. I often work with individuals who have survived sexual trauma, grew up in an abusive family dynamic, experience difficulties setting healthy boundaries in relationships, are adjusting to major changes in life, deal with emotion regulation difficulties, struggle with intrusive thoughts, find it difficult to connect/socialize with others.
My name is Candace N Taggart, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I am licensed to provide therapy in the state of California and look forward to connecting soon! My specialty areas include trauma, borderline personality, anxiety, depression, adjustment difficulties, and grief. I often work with individuals who have survived sexual trauma, grew up in an abusive family dynamic, experience difficulties setting healthy boundaries in relationships, are adjusting to major changes in life, deal with emotion regulation difficulties, struggle with intrusive thoughts, find it difficult to connect/socialize with others.
(747) 318-4099 View (747) 318-4099
Photo of Arlette Zargarian, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Arlette Zargarian
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91208
You don't have to continue feeling depressed or anxious. I can help you learn effective ways to manage difficulties and challenges so that you may feel more in control of your life. Replace debilitating negative thoughts and embrace your strengths and capabilities. You can learn to trust that you're ready to make decisions, move forward, reach your goals, and attain what you want, feeling hopeful, motivated and optimistic. Individuals, couples and families learn new ways to communicate effectively, resolve ongoing conflicts, repair trust, learn to support each other, heal and grow a stronger relationship.
You don't have to continue feeling depressed or anxious. I can help you learn effective ways to manage difficulties and challenges so that you may feel more in control of your life. Replace debilitating negative thoughts and embrace your strengths and capabilities. You can learn to trust that you're ready to make decisions, move forward, reach your goals, and attain what you want, feeling hopeful, motivated and optimistic. Individuals, couples and families learn new ways to communicate effectively, resolve ongoing conflicts, repair trust, learn to support each other, heal and grow a stronger relationship.
(818) 918-9159 View (818) 918-9159
Photo of Wendy Douglas, LCSW, MSPH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Wendy Douglas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSPH
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
Are you wanting to overcome what is standing in the way of making meaningful changes? I am passionate about helping my clients create a peaceful, more fulfilling life. Therapy can help you develop greater insight into yourself, your relationships, and your own decision-making process. I have down-to-earth approach in a caring, non-judgmental and safe environment. I have been practicing for more than 18 years and have been extensively trained in Cognitive and Dialectical Behavior Therapies (CBT & DBT) as well as Prolonged Exposure (PE) for trauma.
Are you wanting to overcome what is standing in the way of making meaningful changes? I am passionate about helping my clients create a peaceful, more fulfilling life. Therapy can help you develop greater insight into yourself, your relationships, and your own decision-making process. I have down-to-earth approach in a caring, non-judgmental and safe environment. I have been practicing for more than 18 years and have been extensively trained in Cognitive and Dialectical Behavior Therapies (CBT & DBT) as well as Prolonged Exposure (PE) for trauma.
(424) 570-3092 View (424) 570-3092
Photo of Erin Lotz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin Lotz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glendale, CA 91201
Erin Lotz, L.C.S.W., Licensed Clinical Social Worker, earned her Masters Degree in Clinical Social Work from the University of Southern California, and is a well respected Psychotherapist who integrates traditional psychodynamic psychotherapy with progressive psychotherapeutic principles of Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. Erin offers practical strategies to calming our "anxious minds", facilitating greater self acceptance, freedom and inner peace.
Erin Lotz, L.C.S.W., Licensed Clinical Social Worker, earned her Masters Degree in Clinical Social Work from the University of Southern California, and is a well respected Psychotherapist who integrates traditional psychodynamic psychotherapy with progressive psychotherapeutic principles of Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. Erin offers practical strategies to calming our "anxious minds", facilitating greater self acceptance, freedom and inner peace.
(310) 455-8286 View (310) 455-8286

See more therapy options for Pacoima

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.