Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA

Photo of Dabney Worth, MSW, ACSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dabney Worth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, ACSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA 90274
I have worked extensively with clients and families dealing with a variety of problems including emotion dysregulation, BPD, depression and anxiety, terminal illness, grief and loss.
I have 30 years experience working with individuals, couples and families dealing with life's struggles, overwhelming emotions, end of life issues, and grief and loss. My approach is warm and gentle, yet insightful and to the point. I create an inviting atmosphere where my clients feel comfortable to delve deep to bring about peace of mind and profound change. My approach incorporates a variety of evidenced based therapeutic approaches including mindfulness, DBT, CBT, and EMDR. You will find me to be both caring and firm, while I help you along your journey to building a life worth living.
I have worked extensively with clients and families dealing with a variety of problems including emotion dysregulation, BPD, depression and anxiety, terminal illness, grief and loss.
I have 30 years experience working with individuals, couples and families dealing with life's struggles, overwhelming emotions, end of life issues, and grief and loss. My approach is warm and gentle, yet insightful and to the point. I create an inviting atmosphere where my clients feel comfortable to delve deep to bring about peace of mind and profound change. My approach incorporates a variety of evidenced based therapeutic approaches including mindfulness, DBT, CBT, and EMDR. You will find me to be both caring and firm, while I help you along your journey to building a life worth living.
(844) 432-0358 View (844) 432-0358
Photo of Sheila Hatcher, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sheila Hatcher
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA 90274
My goal is to help people connect with themselves and others in meaningful and satisfying ways. Connection with the self allows acceptance and enjoyment of life without fear, suspicion, self-judgment, etc., which can prevent us from living life to its fullest. Connection with others allows us to "double our joy and divide our grief." Addressing issues such as depression, self-esteem, or anger can enhance our abilities to know ourselves and be fully present with others. I use an eclectic therapeutic style so that the work can be tailored to fit each client in each session.
My goal is to help people connect with themselves and others in meaningful and satisfying ways. Connection with the self allows acceptance and enjoyment of life without fear, suspicion, self-judgment, etc., which can prevent us from living life to its fullest. Connection with others allows us to "double our joy and divide our grief." Addressing issues such as depression, self-esteem, or anger can enhance our abilities to know ourselves and be fully present with others. I use an eclectic therapeutic style so that the work can be tailored to fit each client in each session.
(310) 736-2698 View (310) 736-2698
Photo of Francyne Foxman, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Francyne Foxman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA 90274
I received my B.A. in Psychology from U.C., Berkeley & my M.A. in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University. I hold a Certification in Dual Diagnosis from U.C., Los Angeles & am skilled in counseling clients dealing with addictions as well as emotional challenges (i.e. depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, trauma, grief & loss). I am proficient in treating persons & families dealing with divorce, separation, custody and court issues. I have provided supervision to Marriage & Family Therapy Trainees and Interns. In-home psychotherapy available, upon request. A Good Faith Estimate (GFE) provided upon request.
I received my B.A. in Psychology from U.C., Berkeley & my M.A. in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University. I hold a Certification in Dual Diagnosis from U.C., Los Angeles & am skilled in counseling clients dealing with addictions as well as emotional challenges (i.e. depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, trauma, grief & loss). I am proficient in treating persons & families dealing with divorce, separation, custody and court issues. I have provided supervision to Marriage & Family Therapy Trainees and Interns. In-home psychotherapy available, upon request. A Good Faith Estimate (GFE) provided upon request.
(310) 226-8437 View (310) 226-8437
Photo of Crystal Quarry - Q Psychology Group, Psychologist
Q Psychology Group
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA 90274
One of the most important aspects in therapy is for patients to feel heard, respected, and understood. Given that each individual is unique, and no one issue is ever the same among different people, our approach is integrative and tailored to meet the needs of the person, not the "problem". we strive to create a compassionate, non-judgemental environment for patients to learn, grow, explore, challenge, and to live the life they want to be living. We specialize in working with adults - individual, couples, and family - with anxiety, depression, PTSD/trauma, relationship problems, substance abuse, ADD/ADHD, and LGBTQ issues.
One of the most important aspects in therapy is for patients to feel heard, respected, and understood. Given that each individual is unique, and no one issue is ever the same among different people, our approach is integrative and tailored to meet the needs of the person, not the "problem". we strive to create a compassionate, non-judgemental environment for patients to learn, grow, explore, challenge, and to live the life they want to be living. We specialize in working with adults - individual, couples, and family - with anxiety, depression, PTSD/trauma, relationship problems, substance abuse, ADD/ADHD, and LGBTQ issues.
(424) 306-1660 View (424) 306-1660
Photo of Josette M Ciolino - San Pedro Therapy, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
San Pedro Therapy
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA 90274
I believe that every individual is a whole and healthy being. Trauma that occurs in childhood or later in life creates a block that makes one feel less than whole and far from healthy. Because of this, anxiety, depression, addictions to substances, food, and other destructive behaviors become a way of coping. My goal is to help my clients restore the feeling of wholeness and well-being by providing a safe, supportive and nurturing environment in which they can work through difficult issues and restore their true selves. I see it everyday...
I believe that every individual is a whole and healthy being. Trauma that occurs in childhood or later in life creates a block that makes one feel less than whole and far from healthy. Because of this, anxiety, depression, addictions to substances, food, and other destructive behaviors become a way of coping. My goal is to help my clients restore the feeling of wholeness and well-being by providing a safe, supportive and nurturing environment in which they can work through difficult issues and restore their true selves. I see it everyday...
(424) 294-8944 View (424) 294-8944
Photo of Devon E Singh-Barrett, PhD, Psychologist
Devon E Singh-Barrett
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA 90274
My clinical practice is available to anyone seeking help and hope in their lives. If you are struggling or suffering with depression, anxiety, life transitions, eating issues, parenthood, or living with your parents, I may be able to help you find a path through this difficult season. There is hope and growth that leads to change.
My clinical practice is available to anyone seeking help and hope in their lives. If you are struggling or suffering with depression, anxiety, life transitions, eating issues, parenthood, or living with your parents, I may be able to help you find a path through this difficult season. There is hope and growth that leads to change.
(310) 807-1884 View (310) 807-1884
Photo of Pam Shaffer - Best Self Psych, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Best Self Psych
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA 90274  (Online Only)
Best Self Psych is a group of ENM, kink, and LGBTQ+ affirmative licensed and associate therapists in Los Angeles and we help people who are experiencing difficulty in their relationships and professional lives. Our practice specializes in specialities include helping people who are struggling with the effects of depression, anxiety, C-PTSD and ADHD.
Best Self Psych is a group of ENM, kink, and LGBTQ+ affirmative licensed and associate therapists in Los Angeles and we help people who are experiencing difficulty in their relationships and professional lives. Our practice specializes in specialities include helping people who are struggling with the effects of depression, anxiety, C-PTSD and ADHD.
(323) 894-9572 View (323) 894-9572
Photo of Amir A Siddiqui, MS, LPC, LPCC
Amir A Siddiqui
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA 90274
Over 12 years of experience in providing individual,couples,and family therapy services. I believe one is the driver and they control how they want to live;however, I understand often times family, bullying, substances, depression, past trauma, anxiety, relationships, raising children, career/employment, financial, and personal struggles can be obstacles.My objective is to work with you in being aware and in creating solutions, which can counterattack these obstacles. Depending on your motivation this process can be short or long. It all depends on how much you want to live a productive Life. I also provide supervision to APCC's.
Over 12 years of experience in providing individual,couples,and family therapy services. I believe one is the driver and they control how they want to live;however, I understand often times family, bullying, substances, depression, past trauma, anxiety, relationships, raising children, career/employment, financial, and personal struggles can be obstacles.My objective is to work with you in being aware and in creating solutions, which can counterattack these obstacles. Depending on your motivation this process can be short or long. It all depends on how much you want to live a productive Life. I also provide supervision to APCC's.
(209) 314-5114 View (209) 314-5114
Photo of Christine Chae, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine Chae
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA 90274
Want to use your insurance for therapy but can't find an in-network therapist who is accepting new clients? Welcome to Abundance Therapy Center where you can get high-quality therapy using your insurance for therapy sessions! We accept most major insurances and will help you verify coverage and navigate the insurance maze. We believe in making high-quality therapy accessible and affordable to our community. We care about your healing journey. ***PLEASE VISIT "ABUNDANCETHERAPYCENTER.COM" TO SUBMIT AN INTAKE REQUEST.***
Want to use your insurance for therapy but can't find an in-network therapist who is accepting new clients? Welcome to Abundance Therapy Center where you can get high-quality therapy using your insurance for therapy sessions! We accept most major insurances and will help you verify coverage and navigate the insurance maze. We believe in making high-quality therapy accessible and affordable to our community. We care about your healing journey. ***PLEASE VISIT "ABUNDANCETHERAPYCENTER.COM" TO SUBMIT AN INTAKE REQUEST.***
(323) 274-1727 View (323) 274-1727

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Susan Horvat, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Susan Horvat
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274  (Online Only)
It takes courage to start/restart therapy - well done for taking the first step! Whether your therapeutic needs are straightforward or complex, my ultimate goal is to empower you. I specialize in treating BPD and complex trauma. Many of my clients identify as creative, sensitive, and/or neurodiverse (ADHD, Autism) and tend to struggle with some combination of anxiety, depression, disordered eating, and/or substance abuse. Whatever you're facing, we will customize your treatment plan together in order to get you the best, most efficient results possible.
It takes courage to start/restart therapy - well done for taking the first step! Whether your therapeutic needs are straightforward or complex, my ultimate goal is to empower you. I specialize in treating BPD and complex trauma. Many of my clients identify as creative, sensitive, and/or neurodiverse (ADHD, Autism) and tend to struggle with some combination of anxiety, depression, disordered eating, and/or substance abuse. Whatever you're facing, we will customize your treatment plan together in order to get you the best, most efficient results possible.
(714) 408-7006 View (714) 408-7006
Photo of Kari A Barker, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kari A Barker
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
Waitlist for new clients
I work with clients and families dealing with intense emotions, BPD, PTSD, depression, anxiety, and dissociation.
Having emotions be in the driver seat of one’s actions can lead to misery and suffering. I am passionate about helping clients gain control over their emotions and actions so that they can build their life that is worth living. I have over 19 years of experience working with adults, adolescences, couples and families. My approach is balancing validation and acceptance with a push to change so that one can achieve the life and relationships one wants. While providing a non-judgmental, collaborative environment, clients can reconnect to their values, set goals, and problem solve behaviors needed to achieve their life worth living
I work with clients and families dealing with intense emotions, BPD, PTSD, depression, anxiety, and dissociation.
Having emotions be in the driver seat of one’s actions can lead to misery and suffering. I am passionate about helping clients gain control over their emotions and actions so that they can build their life that is worth living. I have over 19 years of experience working with adults, adolescences, couples and families. My approach is balancing validation and acceptance with a push to change so that one can achieve the life and relationships one wants. While providing a non-judgmental, collaborative environment, clients can reconnect to their values, set goals, and problem solve behaviors needed to achieve their life worth living
(310) 373-1823 View (310) 373-1823
Photo of Rachel Barraza, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Barraza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90505
Whether you're grappling with borderline personality traits, addiction, or identity issues, I'll meet you with warmth, directness, and zero judgment.
Imagine a life where your emotions empower rather than overwhelm you. As a DBT-trained, attachment-based therapist, I'm like a skilled navigator — helping adolescents and adults chart a course through the stormy seas of intense feelings and impulsive behaviors. Drawing on mindfulness techniques and a deep appreciation for cultural diversity, I create a safe space for you to explore your inner world and develop new ways of relating to yourself and others. My clients have said our sessions were like finally finding a lighthouse in the darkness: illuminating, guiding, and ultimately transformative.
Whether you're grappling with borderline personality traits, addiction, or identity issues, I'll meet you with warmth, directness, and zero judgment.
Imagine a life where your emotions empower rather than overwhelm you. As a DBT-trained, attachment-based therapist, I'm like a skilled navigator — helping adolescents and adults chart a course through the stormy seas of intense feelings and impulsive behaviors. Drawing on mindfulness techniques and a deep appreciation for cultural diversity, I create a safe space for you to explore your inner world and develop new ways of relating to yourself and others. My clients have said our sessions were like finally finding a lighthouse in the darkness: illuminating, guiding, and ultimately transformative.
(562) 545-4954 View (562) 545-4954
Photo of Julia Marie May, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julia Marie May
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90275  (Online Only)
Julia May, is a licensed marriage and family therapist and clinical art therapist. She treats young adults and adults dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationships issues, addiction, codependency, bipolar I/II and borderline personality disorder. She utilizes a variety of approaches with specialized training in Art Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). She strives to empower her clients towards personal growth and healing. She has seen client’s lives transform after working together, breaking compulsive cycles, improving relationships and living positive and more fulfilling lives.
Julia May, is a licensed marriage and family therapist and clinical art therapist. She treats young adults and adults dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationships issues, addiction, codependency, bipolar I/II and borderline personality disorder. She utilizes a variety of approaches with specialized training in Art Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). She strives to empower her clients towards personal growth and healing. She has seen client’s lives transform after working together, breaking compulsive cycles, improving relationships and living positive and more fulfilling lives.
(424) 379-5874 View (424) 379-5874
Photo of Alexandra Armas, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alexandra Armas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90505  (Online Only)
Experience includes: children and adolescents with challenges including personality disorders, psychotic disorders, ADHD, mood disorders, and trauma, borderline personality disorder, self-injury, women's issues and emerging adulthood issues.
It is my hope to walk alongside you on your journey toward self discovery. Whether you are seeking help exploring a current or past issue, soul searching, or just looking for someone to talk to, the therapy room is a safe place to grow. When experiencing pain in relationships or feeling alone, beginning this road toward healing can seem daunting. There is courage in reaching out for support to restore your heart, body, and mind. I am committed to accompanying you in building secure and fulfilling relationships, providing warm and empathic services for children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples.
Experience includes: children and adolescents with challenges including personality disorders, psychotic disorders, ADHD, mood disorders, and trauma, borderline personality disorder, self-injury, women's issues and emerging adulthood issues.
It is my hope to walk alongside you on your journey toward self discovery. Whether you are seeking help exploring a current or past issue, soul searching, or just looking for someone to talk to, the therapy room is a safe place to grow. When experiencing pain in relationships or feeling alone, beginning this road toward healing can seem daunting. There is courage in reaching out for support to restore your heart, body, and mind. I am committed to accompanying you in building secure and fulfilling relationships, providing warm and empathic services for children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples.
(949) 247-8387 View (949) 247-8387
Photo of Kristen Parker, LCSW, PsyD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristen Parker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PsyD
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
I specialize in the treatment of PTSD, Dissociative Disorders, Borderline Personality Disorder, Military Trauma, Eating Disorders and Sexual Addiction.
I am a Psychoanalyst and Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been in practice for over 30 years, treating children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I provide a skilled, empathic, supportive, and yet challenging therapeutic environment in which I will not only act as a guide to deeper insight, but help to navigate the change that is necessary to help you reach your potential as well.
I specialize in the treatment of PTSD, Dissociative Disorders, Borderline Personality Disorder, Military Trauma, Eating Disorders and Sexual Addiction.
I am a Psychoanalyst and Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been in practice for over 30 years, treating children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I provide a skilled, empathic, supportive, and yet challenging therapeutic environment in which I will not only act as a guide to deeper insight, but help to navigate the change that is necessary to help you reach your potential as well.
(310) 740-9761 View (310) 740-9761
Photo of Tanya Montgomery, MA
Tanya Montgomery
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
Are you ready to embrace your authentic self, messy parts and all? Whether you're battling addiction, navigating relationship challenges, healing from trauma, or seeking to understand your neurodivergent child better, I'm here to support you with empathy, creativity, and humor. Together, we'll find ways for you to dance with the challenges in your life instead of struggling against them. As a sex-positive, LGBTQ+-affirming therapist, I specialize in helping individuals and couples forge new, more fulfilling paths forward.
Are you ready to embrace your authentic self, messy parts and all? Whether you're battling addiction, navigating relationship challenges, healing from trauma, or seeking to understand your neurodivergent child better, I'm here to support you with empathy, creativity, and humor. Together, we'll find ways for you to dance with the challenges in your life instead of struggling against them. As a sex-positive, LGBTQ+-affirming therapist, I specialize in helping individuals and couples forge new, more fulfilling paths forward.
(562) 620-3912 View (562) 620-3912
Photo of Matthew D Fenn, LMFT, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Matthew D Fenn
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
Waitlist for new clients
I received my BA from Chapman University and an MS in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Southern California. I am currently enrolled in a Clinical Psychology PhD program at Alliant University. I have multiple years of experience working with diverse individuals and couples facing a wide variety of experiences. I have primarily worked with individuals with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and personality disorders as well as trauma, abuse, and intimate partner violence. I work from a holistic orientation utilizing a variety of methodologies including psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, and systemic orientations.
I received my BA from Chapman University and an MS in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Southern California. I am currently enrolled in a Clinical Psychology PhD program at Alliant University. I have multiple years of experience working with diverse individuals and couples facing a wide variety of experiences. I have primarily worked with individuals with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and personality disorders as well as trauma, abuse, and intimate partner violence. I work from a holistic orientation utilizing a variety of methodologies including psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, and systemic orientations.
(310) 361-8680 View (310) 361-8680
Photo of Shannon McHenry, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shannon McHenry
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90505  (Online Only)
I work with individuals, couples, and families to help gain insight into what is happening in order to move forward and achieve a more fulfilling and productive life. My goal is to help you understand yourself more and assist you with living a more free and conscious life. I use attachment theory to assist people in understanding how their past impacts their present. I specialize in treating addiction, trauma, codependency, relationship issues, and axis II disorders using a holistic trauma informed approach and dialectical behavioral techniques.
I work with individuals, couples, and families to help gain insight into what is happening in order to move forward and achieve a more fulfilling and productive life. My goal is to help you understand yourself more and assist you with living a more free and conscious life. I use attachment theory to assist people in understanding how their past impacts their present. I specialize in treating addiction, trauma, codependency, relationship issues, and axis II disorders using a holistic trauma informed approach and dialectical behavioral techniques.
(323) 747-1202 View (323) 747-1202
Photo of Archelena McDonald, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Archelena McDonald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
My name is Archelena McDonald (the preferred name is Dee Dee), and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California, and serving clients statewide via telehealth. I currently work with adults and specialize in providing treatment for mood disorders, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, psychosis, grief and loss, PTSD, and couples/family counseling. Therapy is never a "one size fits all," so I try to partner with my client to help identify desired areas of growth.
My name is Archelena McDonald (the preferred name is Dee Dee), and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California, and serving clients statewide via telehealth. I currently work with adults and specialize in providing treatment for mood disorders, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, psychosis, grief and loss, PTSD, and couples/family counseling. Therapy is never a "one size fits all," so I try to partner with my client to help identify desired areas of growth.
(747) 318-3534 View (747) 318-3534
Photo of Maaya Ota, MA, LMFT, CHT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Maaya Ota
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CHT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90505  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Certified Hypnotherapist who truly enjoy helping people live their lives to their full potential. 初めまして。1999年よりアメリカ在住、2008年より臨床心理セラピストをしております。I see challenges in life as opportunities for growth, and invitation to better ourselves. I have a masters degree in clinical psychology and working in the mental health field for over a decade helping clients achieve successful results. 一人で悩みを抱えることはありません。一緒に解決策を探していきましょう。
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Certified Hypnotherapist who truly enjoy helping people live their lives to their full potential. 初めまして。1999年よりアメリカ在住、2008年より臨床心理セラピストをしております。I see challenges in life as opportunities for growth, and invitation to better ourselves. I have a masters degree in clinical psychology and working in the mental health field for over a decade helping clients achieve successful results. 一人で悩みを抱えることはありません。一緒に解決策を探していきましょう。
(213) 315-6302 View (213) 315-6302

See more therapy options for Palos Verdes Peninsula

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.