Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in Connecticut

Photo of Rachel Cushion, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Cushion
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hamden, CT 06514
Not accepting new clients
However, I specialize in anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and Borderline Personality Disorder.
Life can be incredibly stressful at times and in these moments, we often need support. My goal as a therapist is to promote personal growth within the individuals I work with. I am a big believer in developing coping strategies to help us manage life stressors. Therefore, I am a therapist who will provide a great deal of education on different coping skills to help you make changes and move forward on your journey.
However, I specialize in anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and Borderline Personality Disorder.
Life can be incredibly stressful at times and in these moments, we often need support. My goal as a therapist is to promote personal growth within the individuals I work with. I am a big believer in developing coping strategies to help us manage life stressors. Therefore, I am a therapist who will provide a great deal of education on different coping skills to help you make changes and move forward on your journey.
(475) 242-0902 View (475) 242-0902
Photo of Eunice Penny Matthews, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eunice Penny Matthews
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Stamford, CT 06905
Not accepting new clients
Oppositional defiant disorder Borderline personality disorder Complex Truama Depression Mother/Daughter Conflict LCSW Supervision.
I have had a great deal of success working with troubled adolescents, mother/daughter conflict, complex trauma, and individuals struggling with life's challenges. I have had post graduate training in psychotherapy and Dialectical Behavior therapy and EMDR ( Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) EMDR is an evidence based therapy in the treatment of PTSD, Trauma, and those suffering from childhood neglect and abuse.
Oppositional defiant disorder Borderline personality disorder Complex Truama Depression Mother/Daughter Conflict LCSW Supervision.
I have had a great deal of success working with troubled adolescents, mother/daughter conflict, complex trauma, and individuals struggling with life's challenges. I have had post graduate training in psychotherapy and Dialectical Behavior therapy and EMDR ( Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) EMDR is an evidence based therapy in the treatment of PTSD, Trauma, and those suffering from childhood neglect and abuse.
(914) 618-4925 View (914) 618-4925
Photo of Micki Carver, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Micki Carver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Fairfield, CT 06825
I am a trauma-informed therapist with certifications in Reiki as a Shoden and Okuden, and in treating Borderline Personality Disordered clients.
We all experience difficulties and carry those burdens throughout our lives. Whether that be a developmental issue in childhood, difficulties finding oneself in adolescence, struggling with the aftermath of a traumatic experience, or the pressures of adulthood, I believe everyone has the capacity to heal and make positive changes to their lives. And with support, safety, empowerment, and the right tools, I can help each client grow through the hardships they may encounter.
I am a trauma-informed therapist with certifications in Reiki as a Shoden and Okuden, and in treating Borderline Personality Disordered clients.
We all experience difficulties and carry those burdens throughout our lives. Whether that be a developmental issue in childhood, difficulties finding oneself in adolescence, struggling with the aftermath of a traumatic experience, or the pressures of adulthood, I believe everyone has the capacity to heal and make positive changes to their lives. And with support, safety, empowerment, and the right tools, I can help each client grow through the hardships they may encounter.
(203) 884-0348 View (203) 884-0348
Photo of Victoria Shumard, LPC, LADC, LMHC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Victoria Shumard
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LADC, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stamford, CT 06901  (Online Only)
I specialize in OCD, depression, bipolar disorder, BPD, anxiety, & substance abuse. I have helped hundreds of teens, adults, & families working to address the root causes of issues resulting in healing, growth & change. Whether you struggle with rumination, compulsions, sadness, highs/lows, reactivity, issues in relationships, self-esteem, or loss of control in your life. Together, we will focus on progress, positive reinforcement, and replacement; challenging thinking patterns, emotional regulation, mindfulness, grounding, & behavioral action, resulting in positive internal & external outcomes & a reduction of symptoms and distress
I specialize in OCD, depression, bipolar disorder, BPD, anxiety, & substance abuse. I have helped hundreds of teens, adults, & families working to address the root causes of issues resulting in healing, growth & change. Whether you struggle with rumination, compulsions, sadness, highs/lows, reactivity, issues in relationships, self-esteem, or loss of control in your life. Together, we will focus on progress, positive reinforcement, and replacement; challenging thinking patterns, emotional regulation, mindfulness, grounding, & behavioral action, resulting in positive internal & external outcomes & a reduction of symptoms and distress
(802) 242-8890 View (802) 242-8890
Photo of Hsiao-Ching Chu, PsyD, A-CBT, DBT-LBC, Psychologist
Hsiao-Ching Chu
Psychologist, PsyD, A-CBT, DBT-LBC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Avon, CT 06001
Chu has extensive experiences in working with individuals suffering from depression, anxiety disorders, OCD, and Borderline Personality Disorder.
Certified PSYPACT psychologist. Dr. Chu is a bilingual licensed clinical psychologist. As a Board Certified DBT (DBT-Linehan Board of Certification) and Certified CBT therapist (Academy of Cognitive and Behavioral Therapies), she teaches her clients tangible tools to make healthy choices by approaching life challenges flexibly and mindfully. Her background in Psychodynamic and Mindfulness-Based psychotherapy led her to fluidly utilize different therapeutic approaches that are most helpful to individual needs.
Chu has extensive experiences in working with individuals suffering from depression, anxiety disorders, OCD, and Borderline Personality Disorder.
Certified PSYPACT psychologist. Dr. Chu is a bilingual licensed clinical psychologist. As a Board Certified DBT (DBT-Linehan Board of Certification) and Certified CBT therapist (Academy of Cognitive and Behavioral Therapies), she teaches her clients tangible tools to make healthy choices by approaching life challenges flexibly and mindfully. Her background in Psychodynamic and Mindfulness-Based psychotherapy led her to fluidly utilize different therapeutic approaches that are most helpful to individual needs.
(860) 799-4846 View (860) 799-4846
Photo of Susan Yanet Betalleluz - The Harmony Center for Change, LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Harmony Center for Change, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Farmington, CT 06032
We specialize in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Borderline Personality Disorder.
We help sensitive individuals find harmony with their emotions. We ensure that clients who would typically slip through the cracks in therapy are seen, supported and have the skills they need to create meaningful change in their lives. During individual DBT therapy sessions, the therapist pays close attention to your behaviors looking for motivational concerns, including personal and environmental factors that inhibit effective behaviors (the things you want to do more) and that elicit and reinforce maladaptive behaviors (the things you want to do less).
We specialize in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Borderline Personality Disorder.
We help sensitive individuals find harmony with their emotions. We ensure that clients who would typically slip through the cracks in therapy are seen, supported and have the skills they need to create meaningful change in their lives. During individual DBT therapy sessions, the therapist pays close attention to your behaviors looking for motivational concerns, including personal and environmental factors that inhibit effective behaviors (the things you want to do more) and that elicit and reinforce maladaptive behaviors (the things you want to do less).
(860) 809-1880 View (860) 809-1880
Photo of Ian Friedrich, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ian Friedrich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Hartford, CT 06119
Ian Friedrich is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 7 years of experience in various mental health settings. He is passionate about providing effective and competent care to support his clients in achieving their personal and clinical goals. He specializes in working with clients who struggle with traits of borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and concerns regarding sexuality and gender expression. Ian obtained his Master of Social Work from the University of Connecticut.
Ian Friedrich is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 7 years of experience in various mental health settings. He is passionate about providing effective and competent care to support his clients in achieving their personal and clinical goals. He specializes in working with clients who struggle with traits of borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and concerns regarding sexuality and gender expression. Ian obtained his Master of Social Work from the University of Connecticut.
(860) 901-1669 View (860) 901-1669
Photo of Laura B DeAngelo, AB, MBA, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura B DeAngelo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AB, MBA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Glastonbury, CT 06033  (Online Only)
I am trained in Dialetical Behavior Therapy (DBT), an evidence-based method to help symptoms of borderline personality disorder.
Are you facing challenges coping with life stressors or relationships? Do you need help learning to manage your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors in order to lead a productive and happy life? Are you a parent trying your best to parent a challenging child but still feel stuck? I offer compassionate, collaborative, results-oriented therapy and training for individuals and families who would like to improve the quality of life for themselves and/or their children. I use a warm and nonjudgmental approach to help you feel safe and comfortable. I want you to leave each session feeling hopeful, insightful, and empowered.
I am trained in Dialetical Behavior Therapy (DBT), an evidence-based method to help symptoms of borderline personality disorder.
Are you facing challenges coping with life stressors or relationships? Do you need help learning to manage your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors in order to lead a productive and happy life? Are you a parent trying your best to parent a challenging child but still feel stuck? I offer compassionate, collaborative, results-oriented therapy and training for individuals and families who would like to improve the quality of life for themselves and/or their children. I use a warm and nonjudgmental approach to help you feel safe and comfortable. I want you to leave each session feeling hopeful, insightful, and empowered.
(860) 325-4129 View (860) 325-4129
Photo of Andrea Bayley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea Bayley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Hartford, CT 06107  (Online Only)
Hi! My name is Andrea and I'm a psychotherapist who specializes in helping individuals struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, borderline personality disorder, and other painful, emotional experiences. My treatment approach focuses on building the therapeutic relationship, understanding my client's goals and working with the client to identify barriers that prevent them from achieving their goals. Together, we create an individualized plan for overcoming those barriers using supportive/insight-oriented psychotherapy, education, and skill building.
Hi! My name is Andrea and I'm a psychotherapist who specializes in helping individuals struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, borderline personality disorder, and other painful, emotional experiences. My treatment approach focuses on building the therapeutic relationship, understanding my client's goals and working with the client to identify barriers that prevent them from achieving their goals. Together, we create an individualized plan for overcoming those barriers using supportive/insight-oriented psychotherapy, education, and skill building.
(860) 854-8179 View (860) 854-8179
Photo of Ashley Pierson, PhD, Psychologist
Ashley Pierson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Greenwich, CT 06830  (Online Only)
I specialize in treatment for Borderline Personality Disorder and emotion dysregulation.
I typically work with adults and adolescents whose lives feel chaotic and out of control with unrelenting misery and emotional suffering. My practice is dedicated to equipping these individuals with the tools needed to accept emotional pain, eliminate harmful ways of coping, and build lives that reward them with purpose and meaning. My approach is open, direct, and compassionate. I speak and interact with clients as my authentic self in a therapeutic relationship.
I specialize in treatment for Borderline Personality Disorder and emotion dysregulation.
I typically work with adults and adolescents whose lives feel chaotic and out of control with unrelenting misery and emotional suffering. My practice is dedicated to equipping these individuals with the tools needed to accept emotional pain, eliminate harmful ways of coping, and build lives that reward them with purpose and meaning. My approach is open, direct, and compassionate. I speak and interact with clients as my authentic self in a therapeutic relationship.
(646) 906-8664 View (646) 906-8664
Photo of Sarah Laufer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Laufer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vernon, CT 06066  (Online Only)
Some specialties include: substance abuse, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, trauma self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and anger issues.
Navigating life can often feel like an uphill battle. Anxiety may feel like a constant companion, with worries and fears manifesting in a variety of ways. With the right support, you can learn strategies to help you cope with your anxiety and feel better.
Some specialties include: substance abuse, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, trauma self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and anger issues.
Navigating life can often feel like an uphill battle. Anxiety may feel like a constant companion, with worries and fears manifesting in a variety of ways. With the right support, you can learn strategies to help you cope with your anxiety and feel better.
(860) 813-8612 View (860) 813-8612
Photo of Ewa Kluk, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ewa Kluk
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milford, CT 06460  (Online Only)
Accepting (NEW) patients at this time. Online/Telehealth Referrals Only. There's an inner child inside all of us who is begging to be seen and heard. You are worth investing your time and energy into. Let me help you to see the light that is within you. I work with adults (18 and over) who struggle with anxiety, depression, mood disorder, borderline personality disorder, addictive personality/substance use, complex trauma and grief/loss.
Accepting (NEW) patients at this time. Online/Telehealth Referrals Only. There's an inner child inside all of us who is begging to be seen and heard. You are worth investing your time and energy into. Let me help you to see the light that is within you. I work with adults (18 and over) who struggle with anxiety, depression, mood disorder, borderline personality disorder, addictive personality/substance use, complex trauma and grief/loss.
(475) 252-9250 View (475) 252-9250
Photo of Melissa Marris - Inner Reach Therapeutics, LLC, MOT, OTR/L, Occupational Therapist
Inner Reach Therapeutics, LLC
Occupational Therapist, MOT, OTR/L
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Windsor, CT 06095
When struggling with debilitating mental health symptoms, it may still be a struggle to function despite being in talk therapy & taking your medications. You may need help with daily functioning, life balance, routine, enjoying activities, & exploring new ones. OT addresses it all! Areas my clients struggle with include self-care, showering, eating, emotion regulation, leisure & hobbies, sensory processing, sleep, work, social, & school. I typically work with ages 18-35 who struggle with symptoms related to autism, anxiety, depression/bipolar, BPD, trauma, ADHD. I place a big emphasis on neuroaffirming, strengths-based care.
When struggling with debilitating mental health symptoms, it may still be a struggle to function despite being in talk therapy & taking your medications. You may need help with daily functioning, life balance, routine, enjoying activities, & exploring new ones. OT addresses it all! Areas my clients struggle with include self-care, showering, eating, emotion regulation, leisure & hobbies, sensory processing, sleep, work, social, & school. I typically work with ages 18-35 who struggle with symptoms related to autism, anxiety, depression/bipolar, BPD, trauma, ADHD. I place a big emphasis on neuroaffirming, strengths-based care.
(860) 809-1878 View (860) 809-1878
Photo of Malina Choi - Soul Alignment Counseling LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Soul Alignment Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Danbury, CT 06810  (Online Only)
We treat victims and those struggling with narcissistic personality, BPD, perfectionism, anger and anxiety using grounding/meditation, mindfulness, DBT/CBT & psycho-education.
Using a trauma-informed, holistic, and supportive yet challenging approach. We offer a combination of direct, but compassionate style of therapy. The pain of emotional wounding can be difficult to navigate through, but with the power of listening, and useful therapeutic tools, your journey of healing can be achieved. Depression, anxiety, trauma, and low self-esteem can impact anyone's quality of life and take a toll on their relationships. We're here to promote the importance of safety & quality self-care; as well as rebuilding intimacy and passion in your relationships through healing communication and conflict resolution skills.
We treat victims and those struggling with narcissistic personality, BPD, perfectionism, anger and anxiety using grounding/meditation, mindfulness, DBT/CBT & psycho-education.
Using a trauma-informed, holistic, and supportive yet challenging approach. We offer a combination of direct, but compassionate style of therapy. The pain of emotional wounding can be difficult to navigate through, but with the power of listening, and useful therapeutic tools, your journey of healing can be achieved. Depression, anxiety, trauma, and low self-esteem can impact anyone's quality of life and take a toll on their relationships. We're here to promote the importance of safety & quality self-care; as well as rebuilding intimacy and passion in your relationships through healing communication and conflict resolution skills.
(475) 262-9314 View (475) 262-9314
Photo of Joselyn Henry, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joselyn Henry
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Middlebury, CT 06762
Hello and welcome! Joselyn has experience working with individuals seeking support for various reasons. She has worked with clients experiencing anxiety, ADHD, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, PTSD, autism, parenting stress, relationship distress, and everyday stress. Joselyn also has experience working with individuals who identify as being part of the LGBTQAI+ community. Joselyn believes in working to find the strengths that each individual or family has to create meaningful change in their lives. She believes that even the smallest change can have positive effects.
Hello and welcome! Joselyn has experience working with individuals seeking support for various reasons. She has worked with clients experiencing anxiety, ADHD, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, PTSD, autism, parenting stress, relationship distress, and everyday stress. Joselyn also has experience working with individuals who identify as being part of the LGBTQAI+ community. Joselyn believes in working to find the strengths that each individual or family has to create meaningful change in their lives. She believes that even the smallest change can have positive effects.
(203) 601-7351 View (203) 601-7351
Lisa A Crowley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
New London, CT 06320
I specialize in working with trauma (especially C-PTSD) using EMDR, Ego State Therapy, and DBT. Issues addressed include self esteem and body image issues, relationship difficulties, parenting struggles, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, BPD, Anxiety, and Depression,. I have worked with a diverse client base and am comfortable treating clients of differing backgrounds, ethnicities and experiences. Because of my background in art therapy and my EMDR training, options for alternative approaches to therapy are available as appropriate and desired.
I specialize in working with trauma (especially C-PTSD) using EMDR, Ego State Therapy, and DBT. Issues addressed include self esteem and body image issues, relationship difficulties, parenting struggles, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, BPD, Anxiety, and Depression,. I have worked with a diverse client base and am comfortable treating clients of differing backgrounds, ethnicities and experiences. Because of my background in art therapy and my EMDR training, options for alternative approaches to therapy are available as appropriate and desired.
(860) 365-8140 View (860) 365-8140
Photo of Katie Cichon, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katie Cichon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southington, CT 06489
Waitlist for new clients
Hi! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 10 years of experience in the eating disorder field. I enjoy supporting adolescents, young adults, and their families develop improved relationships with themselves, their bodies, and food. I also treat co-occuring conditions including trauma, Borderline Personality Disorder, self-harm, suicidality, anxiety and depression.
Hi! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 10 years of experience in the eating disorder field. I enjoy supporting adolescents, young adults, and their families develop improved relationships with themselves, their bodies, and food. I also treat co-occuring conditions including trauma, Borderline Personality Disorder, self-harm, suicidality, anxiety and depression.
(860) 532-6964 View (860) 532-6964
Photo of Ariel Cussen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ariel Cussen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Newington, CT 06111
I have experience serving clients dealing with Depression, Anxiety, Borderline Personality Disorder, and PTSD.
I am now accepting new clients! Life is a constant roller coaster that can leave us feeling off-balance. My approach is to meet clients where they are at given their current circumstances. It can feel impossible to manage life’s duties while simultaneously trying to manage internal and external stressors. I assist clients process overwhelming emotions associated with major life events such as relationship issues, trauma, conflictual family dynamics, body image concerns, chronic/terminal illness, and grief.
I have experience serving clients dealing with Depression, Anxiety, Borderline Personality Disorder, and PTSD.
I am now accepting new clients! Life is a constant roller coaster that can leave us feeling off-balance. My approach is to meet clients where they are at given their current circumstances. It can feel impossible to manage life’s duties while simultaneously trying to manage internal and external stressors. I assist clients process overwhelming emotions associated with major life events such as relationship issues, trauma, conflictual family dynamics, body image concerns, chronic/terminal illness, and grief.
(860) 431-2613 View (860) 431-2613
Photo of Jeanne Rice, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeanne Rice
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Southbury, CT 06488
Are you experiencing distressing symptoms that are making it hard to get through the day? I want to assist you in creating peace in your life. I would love to assist you in achieving your goals, and exploring skills that can help you cope with symptoms that may be effecting your daily life. It's possible to feel relief from these symptoms- including worry, anxiety, depression, grief, and ADHD, and I am here to help. I specialize in treating individuals experiencing extreme stress, mood disorders, BPD, chronic illness and chronic pain, and a variety of conditions and situations that can be difficult to manage.
Are you experiencing distressing symptoms that are making it hard to get through the day? I want to assist you in creating peace in your life. I would love to assist you in achieving your goals, and exploring skills that can help you cope with symptoms that may be effecting your daily life. It's possible to feel relief from these symptoms- including worry, anxiety, depression, grief, and ADHD, and I am here to help. I specialize in treating individuals experiencing extreme stress, mood disorders, BPD, chronic illness and chronic pain, and a variety of conditions and situations that can be difficult to manage.
(203) 654-3532 View (203) 654-3532
Photo of Samantha Farber, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Farber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Stamford, CT 06902
Though I specialize primarily in eating disorders, I also have extensive experience in treating generalized anxiety disorder, borderline personality disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, relationship problems (whether that be with others, yourself, food, or your body), and life transition.
Samantha Farber is a passionate and dedicated therapist aiming to help clients of all ages feel more connected to others, to the life they want to live, and, most importantly, to their authentic self. She aims to create a safe and supportive space for those struggling with eating disorders, disordered eating, and those managing anxiety, depression, life transitions, and trauma.
Though I specialize primarily in eating disorders, I also have extensive experience in treating generalized anxiety disorder, borderline personality disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, relationship problems (whether that be with others, yourself, food, or your body), and life transition.
Samantha Farber is a passionate and dedicated therapist aiming to help clients of all ages feel more connected to others, to the life they want to live, and, most importantly, to their authentic self. She aims to create a safe and supportive space for those struggling with eating disorders, disordered eating, and those managing anxiety, depression, life transitions, and trauma.
(203) 409-8624 View (203) 409-8624
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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.