Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in Inverness, FL

Photo of Heather Champion - Maitri Counseling Services, LLC, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Maitri Counseling Services, LLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Inverness, FL 34452  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
You feel lonely, disconnected, and empty, Maybe you notice yourself withdrawing or feeling alone in a full room of loved ones. Maybe you find yourself bottling up your feelings and afraid to talk about things that bother you. And maybe sometimes this leads you to impulsive behaviors thinking things like "how did I get here?" Maybe you feel like there's a hole where your heart should be. Or perhaps you are overwhelmed with your life and cannot find any time for yourself.
You feel lonely, disconnected, and empty, Maybe you notice yourself withdrawing or feeling alone in a full room of loved ones. Maybe you find yourself bottling up your feelings and afraid to talk about things that bother you. And maybe sometimes this leads you to impulsive behaviors thinking things like "how did I get here?" Maybe you feel like there's a hole where your heart should be. Or perhaps you are overwhelmed with your life and cannot find any time for yourself.
(561) 220-2928 View (561) 220-2928
Photo of Tara Stewart, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Tara Stewart
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Inverness, FL 34453  (Online Only)
I work with my clients to provide a variety of coping skills in order to manage day to day stressors. Many of my clients have struggled with depression, anxiety, self-harm and suicidal ideations. Being formally trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) has allowed me to help clients with severe emotional dysregulation is essential to find the methodology that will be most effective for the client.
I work with my clients to provide a variety of coping skills in order to manage day to day stressors. Many of my clients have struggled with depression, anxiety, self-harm and suicidal ideations. Being formally trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) has allowed me to help clients with severe emotional dysregulation is essential to find the methodology that will be most effective for the client.
(727) 478-2925 View (727) 478-2925
Photo of Kathleen Kinney, LMHC, CAP, ACS, Counselor
Kathleen Kinney
Counselor, LMHC, CAP, ACS
Verified Verified
Inverness, FL 34452
I use Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Psycho-Educational Therapy, Client Centered Therapy, and Reality Therapy to assist in clients meeting goals. My approach is based on the belief that clients help to manage their counseling experience. They will learn and establish boundaries within their life that help them recognize the things they can control and what they cannot. Clients will understand that the therapeutic relationship is a partnership in which they will be expected to put in the effort for homework, be accountable, and present within counseling alliance.
I use Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Psycho-Educational Therapy, Client Centered Therapy, and Reality Therapy to assist in clients meeting goals. My approach is based on the belief that clients help to manage their counseling experience. They will learn and establish boundaries within their life that help them recognize the things they can control and what they cannot. Clients will understand that the therapeutic relationship is a partnership in which they will be expected to put in the effort for homework, be accountable, and present within counseling alliance.
(352) 644-7870 View (352) 644-7870
Photo of Laura Sturdevant, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Sturdevant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Inverness, FL 34452
In a world where therapy and counseling can be intimidating or daunting, my goal is to meet you where you are in your life and support you throughout your wellness journey. Your definition of recovery is as unique as you are and the hope is to partner with you as you take steps towards this goal. A guiding principle for me is to understand your values. Learning what is important to you will help you find the motivation to make the changes you want for yourself.
In a world where therapy and counseling can be intimidating or daunting, my goal is to meet you where you are in your life and support you throughout your wellness journey. Your definition of recovery is as unique as you are and the hope is to partner with you as you take steps towards this goal. A guiding principle for me is to understand your values. Learning what is important to you will help you find the motivation to make the changes you want for yourself.
(352) 660-1979 View (352) 660-1979
Photo of Floribeth Arrautt, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Floribeth Arrautt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Inverness, FL 34450
Thanks for being brave to seek help to overcome challenges and make you more resilient. My name is Floribeth Arrautt, MSW, LCSW, a bilingual licensed clinical social worker with 17 years of experience providing psychotherapy to the elderly, adults, young teens, and children with chronic medical issues and challenges. My client population & specialty focus on providing the psychological tools and interventions that my patients need when dealing with anxiety, stress, depression, chronic medical issues, loss & grief, obesity, emotional eating behaviors. I help my clients to build coping skills to feel better and to overcome obstacles.
Thanks for being brave to seek help to overcome challenges and make you more resilient. My name is Floribeth Arrautt, MSW, LCSW, a bilingual licensed clinical social worker with 17 years of experience providing psychotherapy to the elderly, adults, young teens, and children with chronic medical issues and challenges. My client population & specialty focus on providing the psychological tools and interventions that my patients need when dealing with anxiety, stress, depression, chronic medical issues, loss & grief, obesity, emotional eating behaviors. I help my clients to build coping skills to feel better and to overcome obstacles.
(863) 887-8508 View (863) 887-8508

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Ronnye M Drexler - Solution Focused Counseling and Consultation, LLC, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Solution Focused Counseling and Consultation, LLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hernando, FL 34442  (Online Only)
I am accepting new patients. Has the Covid-19 caused difficulties in your life. Well we are here to help. Are you anxious, feeling stuck, or depressed? Do you have family conflict or parent-child issues? There is hope for a more peaceful productive life. It is my goal to provide a safe nonjudgmental place to empower people with the insight and skills needed to move forward. I have experience and success in helping people with various types of anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, substance abuse, relationship issues, family problems, hard to handle teens. I am accepting new clients.
I am accepting new patients. Has the Covid-19 caused difficulties in your life. Well we are here to help. Are you anxious, feeling stuck, or depressed? Do you have family conflict or parent-child issues? There is hope for a more peaceful productive life. It is my goal to provide a safe nonjudgmental place to empower people with the insight and skills needed to move forward. I have experience and success in helping people with various types of anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, substance abuse, relationship issues, family problems, hard to handle teens. I am accepting new clients.
(352) 464-9620 View (352) 464-9620
Photo of James Mitchell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
James Mitchell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hernando, FL 34442
Hello, I'm James Mitchell, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a client-centered approach to therapy. My focuses of practice are on the LGBTQ+ community, Veterans with adjustment issues, trauma, and mood disorders, and anyone seeking to improve their coping skills and find solutions for to make life more about living and less about just surviving!
Hello, I'm James Mitchell, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a client-centered approach to therapy. My focuses of practice are on the LGBTQ+ community, Veterans with adjustment issues, trauma, and mood disorders, and anyone seeking to improve their coping skills and find solutions for to make life more about living and less about just surviving!
(689) 400-8671 View (689) 400-8671
Photo of Myra F Ricketts, LMHC, LPC, CBHCMS, Counselor
Myra F Ricketts
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, CBHCMS
Verified Verified
Hernando, FL 34442
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, self-esteem issues or just overwhelmed? Is your child having behavioral problems? Is your life going where you want it to? If you are ready to make the next move to improve your life, contact me so we can explore what might be getting in your way to being the person you want to be. I am also a Certified Life Coach and am passionate about helping my clients work towards achieving a better emotional and behavioral well-being.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, self-esteem issues or just overwhelmed? Is your child having behavioral problems? Is your life going where you want it to? If you are ready to make the next move to improve your life, contact me so we can explore what might be getting in your way to being the person you want to be. I am also a Certified Life Coach and am passionate about helping my clients work towards achieving a better emotional and behavioral well-being.
(352) 436-8073 View (352) 436-8073
Photo of Danielle Robertson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danielle Robertson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hernando, FL 34442
Dark thunderstorms are hard to see out of. Especially, when you feel you are alone or worse is feeling lost. When finding your way back to you, adversity does not have to be limiting; it is a resource. Being ready for something different or for things to change is very scary. Except look at all the pain you have already been through. That alone has prepared you for what is next. It is humble to ask for help and although this can feel uneasy just know that you are stretching yourself and that is what gets you results. This work to me is sacred, and if ready then I am grateful to be HEAR for you.
Dark thunderstorms are hard to see out of. Especially, when you feel you are alone or worse is feeling lost. When finding your way back to you, adversity does not have to be limiting; it is a resource. Being ready for something different or for things to change is very scary. Except look at all the pain you have already been through. That alone has prepared you for what is next. It is humble to ask for help and although this can feel uneasy just know that you are stretching yourself and that is what gets you results. This work to me is sacred, and if ready then I am grateful to be HEAR for you.
(727) 205-3637 View (727) 205-3637
Photo of Jodi Mancini Rodriguez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jodi Mancini Rodriguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lecanto, FL 34461
Waitlist for new clients
Are you ready to move on from your past and begin the process of healing? Are you facing mental health challenges and not sure where to start? Or maybe you've experienced trauma that continues to invade your thoughts, create discomfort, or impact your relationships and daily life. If this describes your situation, you are not alone, and therapy can help. I work with teens (14+), adult women, and LGBTQ+ individuals to help them get out of "survival mode" and start living life on their own terms. Please note, My caseload is currently FULL. I have a wait-list for new clients.
Are you ready to move on from your past and begin the process of healing? Are you facing mental health challenges and not sure where to start? Or maybe you've experienced trauma that continues to invade your thoughts, create discomfort, or impact your relationships and daily life. If this describes your situation, you are not alone, and therapy can help. I work with teens (14+), adult women, and LGBTQ+ individuals to help them get out of "survival mode" and start living life on their own terms. Please note, My caseload is currently FULL. I have a wait-list for new clients.
(352) 770-7115 View (352) 770-7115

Online Therapists

Photo of James Berwick, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
James Berwick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Augustine, FL 32086  (Online Only)
, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been practicing therapy now for 40 years both with a physical office and for the last 2 years online. I live in St. Augustine, Fl. At this point in my career I am working exclusively with adults. Over the years I have worked with my clients on such issues as Anxiety and Panic attacks, Depression, PTSD, Self Esteem problems, Borderline Personality, and marital issues. The kinds of therapy I use most frequently include EMDR, EFT, Gestalt therapy, and Hypnosis. I have also incorporated my long time meditation practice along with my love for Buddhism into my use of Mindfulness therapy.
, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been practicing therapy now for 40 years both with a physical office and for the last 2 years online. I live in St. Augustine, Fl. At this point in my career I am working exclusively with adults. Over the years I have worked with my clients on such issues as Anxiety and Panic attacks, Depression, PTSD, Self Esteem problems, Borderline Personality, and marital issues. The kinds of therapy I use most frequently include EMDR, EFT, Gestalt therapy, and Hypnosis. I have also incorporated my long time meditation practice along with my love for Buddhism into my use of Mindfulness therapy.
(904) 599-3602 View (904) 599-3602
Photo of Angel Geis, LMHC, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angel Geis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lake Helen, FL 32744  (Online Only)
I also have extensive experience working with those who have struggled with addiction and Borderline Personality Disorder.
Book with me now by clicking on my website! Have you suffered from a Narcissistic abusive relationship? Do you tend to be a caregiver at the expense of your own needs? Have you suffered religious abuse or cult membership? Toxic relationships are not limited to romantic partners, they can be with our parents, siblings, friends, and even work relations. These kinds of experiences leave a lasting, negative impact on one’s mental and emotional well-being resulting in a life-long trauma wound. This can leave us in a state of perpetual anxiety, depression, isolation, confusion and codependency, and possible addiction.
I also have extensive experience working with those who have struggled with addiction and Borderline Personality Disorder.
Book with me now by clicking on my website! Have you suffered from a Narcissistic abusive relationship? Do you tend to be a caregiver at the expense of your own needs? Have you suffered religious abuse or cult membership? Toxic relationships are not limited to romantic partners, they can be with our parents, siblings, friends, and even work relations. These kinds of experiences leave a lasting, negative impact on one’s mental and emotional well-being resulting in a life-long trauma wound. This can leave us in a state of perpetual anxiety, depression, isolation, confusion and codependency, and possible addiction.
(386) 649-2895 View (386) 649-2895
Photo of Jennifer Szabo, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Szabo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702  (Online Only)
I am also trained in perinatal mood & anxiety disorders, OCD and comfortable working with Bipolar & Borderline.
Feeling consumed by intrusive, unwanted thoughts that interrupt your daily living? Are you wanting to regain power over your thoughts and life? I understand how difficult it may seem to begin the healing process. But, you do not need to do it alone. When you meet with me you will be welcomed into a nonjudgmental space that will allow you to explore the possible source of your current challenges and ways you can enhance your well-being. I do not believe therapy has to be a painful experience, it can be a healing and rewarding journey. I can walk along side you as you begin to regain control of your life.
I am also trained in perinatal mood & anxiety disorders, OCD and comfortable working with Bipolar & Borderline.
Feeling consumed by intrusive, unwanted thoughts that interrupt your daily living? Are you wanting to regain power over your thoughts and life? I understand how difficult it may seem to begin the healing process. But, you do not need to do it alone. When you meet with me you will be welcomed into a nonjudgmental space that will allow you to explore the possible source of your current challenges and ways you can enhance your well-being. I do not believe therapy has to be a painful experience, it can be a healing and rewarding journey. I can walk along side you as you begin to regain control of your life.
(480) 878-7894 View (480) 878-7894
Photo of Sarah O'Hern, MS, LMHC, CCTP, Counselor
Sarah O'Hern
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CCTP
Verified Verified
37 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32803  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with couples, as well as clients diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), who have Anxious Attachment styles, difficulties with regulating emotions, and/or have a history of trauma. No matter who you are or what you hope to accomplish during your time with me, I seek to provide a validating, empathetic, non-judgmental, and supportive presence- as you do the hard work! I am a passionate person who cares deeply about the work I do and the people I do it for- YOU! I welcome you to my practice- in your time- when you’re ready to create a life worth living.
I specialize in working with couples, as well as clients diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), who have Anxious Attachment styles, difficulties with regulating emotions, and/or have a history of trauma. No matter who you are or what you hope to accomplish during your time with me, I seek to provide a validating, empathetic, non-judgmental, and supportive presence- as you do the hard work! I am a passionate person who cares deeply about the work I do and the people I do it for- YOU! I welcome you to my practice- in your time- when you’re ready to create a life worth living.
(321) 351-3347 View (321) 351-3347
Photo of Kelly E. Turner - Tampa Bay DBT, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tampa Bay DBT
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33625
These treatments have been proven to be effective in treating Borderline Personality Disorder, Substance Use Disorders, Eating Disorders, Panic Disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders, Generalized Anxiety Disorders, Trauma Disorders, couples, and families.
Tampa Bay DBT is a group of mental health clinicians dedicated to the mission of providing evidence based psychological treatments to adolescents, adults, and families in a compassionate environment. Our clinicians are dedicated to receiving the most up to date trainings to provide the most effective care to the individuals we serve. We provide specific treatments including: Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Radically Open DBT (RO-DBT), DBT for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (DBT-PTSD), Prolonged Exposure (PE), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and Emotion-Focused Couples and Family Therapy.
These treatments have been proven to be effective in treating Borderline Personality Disorder, Substance Use Disorders, Eating Disorders, Panic Disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders, Generalized Anxiety Disorders, Trauma Disorders, couples, and families.
Tampa Bay DBT is a group of mental health clinicians dedicated to the mission of providing evidence based psychological treatments to adolescents, adults, and families in a compassionate environment. Our clinicians are dedicated to receiving the most up to date trainings to provide the most effective care to the individuals we serve. We provide specific treatments including: Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Radically Open DBT (RO-DBT), DBT for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (DBT-PTSD), Prolonged Exposure (PE), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and Emotion-Focused Couples and Family Therapy.
(443) 856-6273 View (443) 856-6273
Photo of Stephanie Cook, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Stephanie Cook
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33606  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed by addiction, trauma, or relationship challenges? Struggling with anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues? You're not alone, and there's hope for a brighter tomorrow. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Florida, I specialize in guiding individuals through the complexities of addiction and substance misuse, trauma and PTSD, and various mental health disorders including anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, bipolar, and borderline personality disorder. With a commitment to providing a nonjudgmental space and confidential support, I empower my clients to overcome obstacles and heal.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by addiction, trauma, or relationship challenges? Struggling with anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues? You're not alone, and there's hope for a brighter tomorrow. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Florida, I specialize in guiding individuals through the complexities of addiction and substance misuse, trauma and PTSD, and various mental health disorders including anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, bipolar, and borderline personality disorder. With a commitment to providing a nonjudgmental space and confidential support, I empower my clients to overcome obstacles and heal.
(727) 496-6915 View (727) 496-6915
Photo of Courtney Mann, MSW, RCSWI
Courtney Mann
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, MSW, RCSWI
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32820  (Online Only)
I have expertise in working with trauma, eating disorders, C-PTSD and BPD.
Hi and thanks for reading! I'm a relational therapist focused on collaborating together to create long lasting change in the way you feel about yourself, your life, and the people around you. Feeling both safe and heard while you explore what you've been through and what might be causing you to feel stuck is a crucial part of this work. If you've been struggling with self-esteem, anxiety, interpersonal relationships, or the ability to navigate difficult emotions, I would love to work with you.
I have expertise in working with trauma, eating disorders, C-PTSD and BPD.
Hi and thanks for reading! I'm a relational therapist focused on collaborating together to create long lasting change in the way you feel about yourself, your life, and the people around you. Feeling both safe and heard while you explore what you've been through and what might be causing you to feel stuck is a crucial part of this work. If you've been struggling with self-esteem, anxiety, interpersonal relationships, or the ability to navigate difficult emotions, I would love to work with you.
(407) 606-7965 View (407) 606-7965
Photo of Dr. Darleen Claire Wodzenski, MS MA , PhD LPC, NCC ASC, Counselor
Dr. Darleen Claire Wodzenski
Counselor, MS MA , PhD LPC, NCC ASC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33705
I work with children of all ages from 1 to 99, and serve a diverse population including individuals with disabilities, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, Polyamorous, spiritually orientation. Taking a person-centered holistic approach, I serve clients within a framework of evidence-based Positive Psychology that is supported by a firm foundation in psychotherapy, lifestyle, relationship, epigenetics, developmental, neuro-counseling and brain-based, and mindfulness wisdom & strategies. The types of issues I commonly treat include Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Autism, Neuroatypicality, Dissociation, DID, OCD, ODD, Borderline Personality Disorder, PTSD.
I work with children of all ages from 1 to 99, and serve a diverse population including individuals with disabilities, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, Polyamorous, spiritually orientation. Taking a person-centered holistic approach, I serve clients within a framework of evidence-based Positive Psychology that is supported by a firm foundation in psychotherapy, lifestyle, relationship, epigenetics, developmental, neuro-counseling and brain-based, and mindfulness wisdom & strategies. The types of issues I commonly treat include Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Autism, Neuroatypicality, Dissociation, DID, OCD, ODD, Borderline Personality Disorder, PTSD.
(727) 761-2294 View (727) 761-2294
Photo of Rebecca Marcotte, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca Marcotte
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702
I have experience working with people who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, and Borderline Personality Disorder.
Do you or a teenager you know, struggle with feeling sad, frequently worrying, feeling empty/numb, or irritable? Do you lack motivation, struggle with relationships, or have difficulties managing emotions? Have you or your teenager experienced any difficult/traumatic events in your life? Emotional struggles can effect all areas of our lives. If you feel hopeless and stuck, you are not alone. Come learn how to think and act differently to make improvements to your life. Find out how to improve relationships with family and friends. Discover how to identify your emotions and understand how to express them in a healthy and safe way.
I have experience working with people who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, and Borderline Personality Disorder.
Do you or a teenager you know, struggle with feeling sad, frequently worrying, feeling empty/numb, or irritable? Do you lack motivation, struggle with relationships, or have difficulties managing emotions? Have you or your teenager experienced any difficult/traumatic events in your life? Emotional struggles can effect all areas of our lives. If you feel hopeless and stuck, you are not alone. Come learn how to think and act differently to make improvements to your life. Find out how to improve relationships with family and friends. Discover how to identify your emotions and understand how to express them in a healthy and safe way.
(803) 910-4159 View (803) 910-4159
Photo of Patti Collard, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patti Collard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wesley Chapel, FL 33544  (Online Only)
Let me start by telling you a little about myself. I have been a licensed practicing clinician since 2010. I have been extensively trained in a specialized form of therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), but I also practice general talk therapy. I enjoy working with adolescents, college students, and adults with a wide range of challenges, such as Borderline Personality Disorder, depression (including postpartum), bipolar disorder, anxiety, eating disorders, substance abuse, self-harm, identity issues, relationship issues, and impulsivity. I also have experience working with patients in acute psychiatric crisis.
Let me start by telling you a little about myself. I have been a licensed practicing clinician since 2010. I have been extensively trained in a specialized form of therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), but I also practice general talk therapy. I enjoy working with adolescents, college students, and adults with a wide range of challenges, such as Borderline Personality Disorder, depression (including postpartum), bipolar disorder, anxiety, eating disorders, substance abuse, self-harm, identity issues, relationship issues, and impulsivity. I also have experience working with patients in acute psychiatric crisis.
(727) 261-1284 View (727) 261-1284

See more therapy options for Inverness

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.