Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in San Diego, CA
![Photo of Nancy Phung-Smith, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/861e8356-00cd-4347-8330-1daa3b0872b0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nancy Phung-Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92120
I am a body-centered therapist who specializes in working with trauma and emotion instability/intensity—this includes interpersonal relationships, depression, anger & anxiety. With this approach, we can get to a deeper understanding of diagnosis like Bipolar, Borderline Personality Disorder, and adult ADHD. Therapy is a two-pong approach: the skills & tools to get you through the day-to-day; and psychodynamic work of getting to the root of the issues (trauma-informed lens). I combine DBT/CBT skills and tools, with EMDR and tenants of IFS to stabilize symptoms, make way for healing, and a deeper understanding & connection to self.
I am a body-centered therapist who specializes in working with trauma and emotion instability/intensity—this includes interpersonal relationships, depression, anger & anxiety. With this approach, we can get to a deeper understanding of diagnosis like Bipolar, Borderline Personality Disorder, and adult ADHD. Therapy is a two-pong approach: the skills & tools to get you through the day-to-day; and psychodynamic work of getting to the root of the issues (trauma-informed lens). I combine DBT/CBT skills and tools, with EMDR and tenants of IFS to stabilize symptoms, make way for healing, and a deeper understanding & connection to self.
![Photo of Jessica C Silsby, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52dc4960-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I provide comprehensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy (adults & adolescents) experiencing emotional dysregulation, strained relationships, overwhelming suffering (w/wo diagnosis of BPD), and/or thoughts of suicide or self-harm. My frame is client-centered, believing that you are the expert of your life, & therapy is a collaborate effort. I also work extensively within the Trans*/Nonbinary community, supporting an affirmed life for you and those around you. This can be at any age and include issues of disclosure, life changes, overcoming fear while balancing safety, & community advocacy.
I provide comprehensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy (adults & adolescents) experiencing emotional dysregulation, strained relationships, overwhelming suffering (w/wo diagnosis of BPD), and/or thoughts of suicide or self-harm. My frame is client-centered, believing that you are the expert of your life, & therapy is a collaborate effort. I also work extensively within the Trans*/Nonbinary community, supporting an affirmed life for you and those around you. This can be at any age and include issues of disclosure, life changes, overcoming fear while balancing safety, & community advocacy.
![Photo of Colleen Auth, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ce965a8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in the treatment of adults and older adults suffering from depression, bipolar, generalized anxiety, social anxiety, PTSD, OCD, and various personality disorders including Borderline personality disorder. I have experience in working with many of life's problems such as grief and loss, conflict resolution, and anger management. I work with each patient to understand his or her symptoms and the problems that impact their mood, and then create a holistic approach to develop a unique treatment plan that is tailored to address the individuals needs.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in the treatment of adults and older adults suffering from depression, bipolar, generalized anxiety, social anxiety, PTSD, OCD, and various personality disorders including Borderline personality disorder. I have experience in working with many of life's problems such as grief and loss, conflict resolution, and anger management. I work with each patient to understand his or her symptoms and the problems that impact their mood, and then create a holistic approach to develop a unique treatment plan that is tailored to address the individuals needs.
![Photo of Bonnie D Lucks - Applied DBT Clinicians, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44a3b5ba-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Linehan during the mid-90's and empirically validated for the treatment of Borderline Personality Disorder and other issues.
We specialize in DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) for the treatment of especially difficult to treat issues such as PTSD, Severe depression, Eating Disorders and the like. We are also well versed in issues of self-harm and frequent hospitalizations
Linehan during the mid-90's and empirically validated for the treatment of Borderline Personality Disorder and other issues.
We specialize in DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) for the treatment of especially difficult to treat issues such as PTSD, Severe depression, Eating Disorders and the like. We are also well versed in issues of self-harm and frequent hospitalizations
![Photo of Jessica Ulmer, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2204d97d-9344-4210-92df-edd73a92f97d/3/320x400.jpeg)
I completed my doctoral degree in clinical psychology (PsyD) at La Salle University in Philadelphia and am licensed in CA and WA. I have worked with children, teens, & adults with emotional & behavioral dysregulation, relationship issues, suicidal thinking, substance abuse issues, & difficulty with life transitions. I’m trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness acceptance-based approaches. Specializing further, using Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Exposure for treating trauma. I have expertise in treating Eating Disorders, Body image issues, Trauma, Suicidal behaviors, & Borderline Personality disorder.
I completed my doctoral degree in clinical psychology (PsyD) at La Salle University in Philadelphia and am licensed in CA and WA. I have worked with children, teens, & adults with emotional & behavioral dysregulation, relationship issues, suicidal thinking, substance abuse issues, & difficulty with life transitions. I’m trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness acceptance-based approaches. Specializing further, using Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Exposure for treating trauma. I have expertise in treating Eating Disorders, Body image issues, Trauma, Suicidal behaviors, & Borderline Personality disorder.
![Photo of Lane McConnell, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50ee947a-a878-427c-bc19-86e35d93d4c7/1/320x400.png)
Lane McConnell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, borderline personality, sexuality issues or addiction? These are some of the areas I specialize in. I believe therapy can help you find the solutions you need to move forward to have a happier life. Have you struggled to find an effective type of therapy that works for you? I tailor my therapy approach to you based on what has and has not worked for you in the past. Together we will set therapy goals to help you remove present barriers, suffering and emotional pain so you can live your life to your upmost potential. Additional information: www.lanemcconnelltherapy.com
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, borderline personality, sexuality issues or addiction? These are some of the areas I specialize in. I believe therapy can help you find the solutions you need to move forward to have a happier life. Have you struggled to find an effective type of therapy that works for you? I tailor my therapy approach to you based on what has and has not worked for you in the past. Together we will set therapy goals to help you remove present barriers, suffering and emotional pain so you can live your life to your upmost potential. Additional information: www.lanemcconnelltherapy.com
![Photo of Souneh Arevalo, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8a21fed9-5745-402f-be64-e93d71fa8f0b/2/320x400.png)
I specialize in supporting adults through grief, Depression, Anxiety, & Borderline Personality Disorder.
NOTE: I am only accepting Adult clients for Individual Therapy. My caseload for Couples/Families/Adolescents is currently FULL. Please visit www.acm-llc.com for more information and to schedule a free 15min consultation. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Do you often feel stressed and find yourself overthinking? Are you struggling to manage your emotions? Do you experience difficulties in your relationships? Life can become overwhelming at times and you don't have to go through challenges on your own. Let’s collaborate to gain relief and create a life worth living.
I specialize in supporting adults through grief, Depression, Anxiety, & Borderline Personality Disorder.
NOTE: I am only accepting Adult clients for Individual Therapy. My caseload for Couples/Families/Adolescents is currently FULL. Please visit www.acm-llc.com for more information and to schedule a free 15min consultation. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Do you often feel stressed and find yourself overthinking? Are you struggling to manage your emotions? Do you experience difficulties in your relationships? Life can become overwhelming at times and you don't have to go through challenges on your own. Let’s collaborate to gain relief and create a life worth living.
![Photo of Scott D Altamirano, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e9b16ce5-c9db-4feb-b26b-8daf8c428e1c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Scott D Altamirano
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103 (Online Only)
With over a decade of experience, I provide compassionate therapy with a touch of dark humor. I specialize in complex cases, including LGBT issues, trauma, domestic violence, addiction, porn addiction, avoidant attachment, and personality disorders like borderline and narcissism. My goal is to support you in confronting and resolving deep-rooted challenges once and for all.
With over a decade of experience, I provide compassionate therapy with a touch of dark humor. I specialize in complex cases, including LGBT issues, trauma, domestic violence, addiction, porn addiction, avoidant attachment, and personality disorders like borderline and narcissism. My goal is to support you in confronting and resolving deep-rooted challenges once and for all.
![Photo of Jaina Sarkisyan, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49d20466-dd21-4a64-bf8a-01dacb611614/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jaina Sarkisyan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92126
Jaina is experienced in: Narcissistic personality disorder, BPD,anxiety, addiction, OCD, trauma, infidelity, mood disorders, depression, PTSD, relationship & vocational & Bipolar & more.
Let me be part of your journey in this brutiful life. As Glennon Doyle Melton says "Life is brutal. But it is also beautiful. Life's brutal and beautiful woven together so tightly they cannot be separated. Reject the brutal, reject the beauty. Life is Bruitiful." Jaina is an experienced licensed clinician with 18 years of experience providing exceptional clinical care to adults, couples and families. Jaina has many years of experience working w/law enforcement, military and their families. Additionally, working with individuals with life transition issues, Polyamory, anxiety, depression, sexual assault, trauma, SUD & other issues
Jaina is experienced in: Narcissistic personality disorder, BPD,anxiety, addiction, OCD, trauma, infidelity, mood disorders, depression, PTSD, relationship & vocational & Bipolar & more.
Let me be part of your journey in this brutiful life. As Glennon Doyle Melton says "Life is brutal. But it is also beautiful. Life's brutal and beautiful woven together so tightly they cannot be separated. Reject the brutal, reject the beauty. Life is Bruitiful." Jaina is an experienced licensed clinician with 18 years of experience providing exceptional clinical care to adults, couples and families. Jaina has many years of experience working w/law enforcement, military and their families. Additionally, working with individuals with life transition issues, Polyamory, anxiety, depression, sexual assault, trauma, SUD & other issues
![Photo of Miriam Kopf, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d3ddfee1-c44a-4931-be34-ef7ae7bb6679/1/320x400.png)
I have experience working with couples and individuals of all ages in the areas of stress and anxiety, depression, PTSD, relationship issues, women’s issues, school issues, and Borderline Personality.
Hello, I'm Miriam, a Licensed MFT who is devoted to providing support to people from all walks and phases of life on their paths to finding peace within. In my practice, I employ a client-centered approach from a strengths-based and solution-focused lens. I am collaborative and adaptive with my use of therapeutic interventions based on my own scope of practice and clients’ background and needs. I value the importance of the therapeutic relationship and how cultural awareness and intersectionality play the greatest role within it. I strive to empower my clients to recognize that they that they know themselves best.
I have experience working with couples and individuals of all ages in the areas of stress and anxiety, depression, PTSD, relationship issues, women’s issues, school issues, and Borderline Personality.
Hello, I'm Miriam, a Licensed MFT who is devoted to providing support to people from all walks and phases of life on their paths to finding peace within. In my practice, I employ a client-centered approach from a strengths-based and solution-focused lens. I am collaborative and adaptive with my use of therapeutic interventions based on my own scope of practice and clients’ background and needs. I value the importance of the therapeutic relationship and how cultural awareness and intersectionality play the greatest role within it. I strive to empower my clients to recognize that they that they know themselves best.
![Photo of Scott D Altamirano, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/467433f5-6b22-4db2-9139-959f78a5365f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Scott D Altamirano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103 (Online Only)
With over a decade of experience, I provide compassionate therapy with a touch of dark humor. I specialize in complex cases, including LGBT issues, trauma, domestic violence, addiction, porn addiction, avoidant attachment, and personality disorders like borderline and narcissism. My goal is to support you in confronting and resolving deep-rooted challenges once and for all.
With over a decade of experience, I provide compassionate therapy with a touch of dark humor. I specialize in complex cases, including LGBT issues, trauma, domestic violence, addiction, porn addiction, avoidant attachment, and personality disorders like borderline and narcissism. My goal is to support you in confronting and resolving deep-rooted challenges once and for all.
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![Photo of Scott Altamirano, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fb975b8b-6f65-45c9-b4f2-5e86ac161218/1/320x400.jpeg)
Scott Altamirano
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103 (Online Only)
With over a decade of experience, I provide compassionate therapy with a touch of dark humor. I specialize in complex cases, including LGBT issues, trauma, domestic violence, addiction, porn addiction, avoidant attachment, and personality disorders like borderline and narcissism. My goal is to support you in confronting and resolving deep-rooted challenges once and for all.
With over a decade of experience, I provide compassionate therapy with a touch of dark humor. I specialize in complex cases, including LGBT issues, trauma, domestic violence, addiction, porn addiction, avoidant attachment, and personality disorders like borderline and narcissism. My goal is to support you in confronting and resolving deep-rooted challenges once and for all.
![Photo of Scott Altamirano, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d284d9f0-1a85-462b-8a74-629430467f0a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Scott Altamirano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103 (Online Only)
To me, a large part of therapy is about grieving, acceptance, and peace within ourselves and others; I am particularly good at helping people get in touch with their feelings. I tend to work with the heavier side of therapy, that include drug/ alcohol /cannabis addiction, domestic violence, narcissism, borderline, sex/porn addiction, sex offense, sexual shame, couples working through sobriety-recovery dynamics, infidelity, poly relationships, court, and anger management. I tend to work really well with those who enjoy dark humor, who are avoidant by nature, and those who are seeking redemption from guilt/shame.
To me, a large part of therapy is about grieving, acceptance, and peace within ourselves and others; I am particularly good at helping people get in touch with their feelings. I tend to work with the heavier side of therapy, that include drug/ alcohol /cannabis addiction, domestic violence, narcissism, borderline, sex/porn addiction, sex offense, sexual shame, couples working through sobriety-recovery dynamics, infidelity, poly relationships, court, and anger management. I tend to work really well with those who enjoy dark humor, who are avoidant by nature, and those who are seeking redemption from guilt/shame.
![Photo of Shari L Turner, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bbb529ef-8a45-42a0-84dc-bc9c6905c0bf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shari L Turner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92123 (Online Only)
Whatever suffering has brought you here, welcome. You may be exhausted from feeling “Never Good Enough”, overwhelmed with shame, worry or sadness, hopeless about things getting better…or just need a safe, supportive place to heal? I would be honored to help. My clients tell me they feel “heard", listened to without being judged and feel better able to cope. I'm passionate about helping people struggling due to Narcissistic Abuse, Trauma & complex PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD/Autism Neurodivergence, Relationship concerns, Suicidal thoughts, Borderline Personality traits, Alcohol & Drug problems, and LGBTQ/ Diversity issues.
Whatever suffering has brought you here, welcome. You may be exhausted from feeling “Never Good Enough”, overwhelmed with shame, worry or sadness, hopeless about things getting better…or just need a safe, supportive place to heal? I would be honored to help. My clients tell me they feel “heard", listened to without being judged and feel better able to cope. I'm passionate about helping people struggling due to Narcissistic Abuse, Trauma & complex PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD/Autism Neurodivergence, Relationship concerns, Suicidal thoughts, Borderline Personality traits, Alcohol & Drug problems, and LGBTQ/ Diversity issues.
![Photo of Danielle Williamson Lcsw, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1bae2bdd-fc36-4659-9067-17997225c9c4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Danielle Williamson Lcsw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92116 (Online Only)
Are you ready for deeper healing than talk therapy? I am currently practicing Brainspotting/EMDR treatment to provide the deepest brain-based healing which goes much further than plain talk therapies. I specialize in trauma, first responders, depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder and other diagnosis which inhibit you from living you best life.
Are you ready for deeper healing than talk therapy? I am currently practicing Brainspotting/EMDR treatment to provide the deepest brain-based healing which goes much further than plain talk therapies. I specialize in trauma, first responders, depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder and other diagnosis which inhibit you from living you best life.
![Photo of Donna M Chapman, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d696560-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Donna M Chapman
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
I care...Let me help. We will create a safe, non-judgmental space from which to begin the process of healing. I enjoy working with individuals, couples and families who have challenges in substance abuse, anxiety, depression, borderline personality issues and relationship problems. I also enjoy working with the LGBT community, specifically with Transgender people and their families. My rich life experience (fancy language for I'm older) allows me to truly align with partners and families that have members who are transgender and to be an ally with transgender individuals as they transition.
I care...Let me help. We will create a safe, non-judgmental space from which to begin the process of healing. I enjoy working with individuals, couples and families who have challenges in substance abuse, anxiety, depression, borderline personality issues and relationship problems. I also enjoy working with the LGBT community, specifically with Transgender people and their families. My rich life experience (fancy language for I'm older) allows me to truly align with partners and families that have members who are transgender and to be an ally with transgender individuals as they transition.
![Photo of Tania Zargari, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/768355f2-7f17-4630-bfc1-385e946e1588/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! My name is Tania Zargari, LCSW. In my practice, I like to offer a safe, warm, and judgement-free environment for my clients to feel comfortable to open up and be vulnerable. In the first few sessions of treatment, I like to identify the presenting issues and goals for therapy to make therapy organized and beneficial for my clients. My areas of expertise include Depression, Anxiety, Grief, Relationship issues, Borderline Personality Disorder, life transitions and etc. In treatment, I like to use Mindfulness, DBT, CBT, and Solution Focused therapy. I hope to make this a transformative and life-changing experience for you!
Hello! My name is Tania Zargari, LCSW. In my practice, I like to offer a safe, warm, and judgement-free environment for my clients to feel comfortable to open up and be vulnerable. In the first few sessions of treatment, I like to identify the presenting issues and goals for therapy to make therapy organized and beneficial for my clients. My areas of expertise include Depression, Anxiety, Grief, Relationship issues, Borderline Personality Disorder, life transitions and etc. In treatment, I like to use Mindfulness, DBT, CBT, and Solution Focused therapy. I hope to make this a transformative and life-changing experience for you!
![Photo of Alan Jacobson - Virtual Psychological Testing Group, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/38758b9f-6d3e-4bf3-9a2f-beee9dfee6dc/1/320x400.png)
Partial List of Services: ADHD - Mental Health - Compatibility - Emotional Intelligence - Autism - Career - Athletes - Personality - Anxiety - Borderline Personality - Creativity - Emotional Dysregulation - Fluid Intelligence - Testing for Mensa - Multiple Intelligences - OCD - Preschool IQ - Learning Disabilities - Giftedness - Learning Differences.
For over twenty years, we have provided advanced psychological testing using scientifically proven and established tests. Our principal psychologist, Dr. Alan Jacobson, oversees all testing. We will design a testing battery to meet your unique needs so that we can answer any questions you have, give you suggestions to help you overcome barriers, reach your potential, and bring welcome clarity to your day-to-day life. Our reports present substantial information beyond simply describing challenges; we provide insight and an individualized toolkit. We can also help you get any necessary accommodations at work or school.
Partial List of Services: ADHD - Mental Health - Compatibility - Emotional Intelligence - Autism - Career - Athletes - Personality - Anxiety - Borderline Personality - Creativity - Emotional Dysregulation - Fluid Intelligence - Testing for Mensa - Multiple Intelligences - OCD - Preschool IQ - Learning Disabilities - Giftedness - Learning Differences.
For over twenty years, we have provided advanced psychological testing using scientifically proven and established tests. Our principal psychologist, Dr. Alan Jacobson, oversees all testing. We will design a testing battery to meet your unique needs so that we can answer any questions you have, give you suggestions to help you overcome barriers, reach your potential, and bring welcome clarity to your day-to-day life. Our reports present substantial information beyond simply describing challenges; we provide insight and an individualized toolkit. We can also help you get any necessary accommodations at work or school.
![Photo of Reed Andrew Vierra, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/adc56735-5ab1-4537-b1b9-25339146ba17/2/320x400.jpeg)
Reed Andrew Vierra
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92104 (Online Only)
Additionally, my work has included work with neurodivergent clients, particularly ADHD, borderline personality disorder, and substance use.
I enjoy with patients that want to move beyond the cookie cutter structure of many types of therapies in order to increase insight, improve adaptive coping, increasing holistic health, and are motivated for change.
Additionally, my work has included work with neurodivergent clients, particularly ADHD, borderline personality disorder, and substance use.
I enjoy with patients that want to move beyond the cookie cutter structure of many types of therapies in order to increase insight, improve adaptive coping, increasing holistic health, and are motivated for change.
![Photo of Alexandria Noel Tan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/67292272-8e24-4ac3-bfb4-30ce9fe08910/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Alexandria (Alex) Tan, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker located in the greater Sacramento area. I enjoy providing non-judgmental, empathetic therapy to individuals from all backgrounds and age ranges. I have experience working with a wide variety of individuals including those with mild to moderate depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) to those who have more serious mental illnesses including bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and personality disorders (including Histrionic, Borderline, and antisocial personality disorders).
My name is Alexandria (Alex) Tan, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker located in the greater Sacramento area. I enjoy providing non-judgmental, empathetic therapy to individuals from all backgrounds and age ranges. I have experience working with a wide variety of individuals including those with mild to moderate depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) to those who have more serious mental illnesses including bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and personality disorders (including Histrionic, Borderline, and antisocial personality disorders).
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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.