Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in Orlando, FL

Photo of Keresse Thompson, LCSW , LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Keresse Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW , LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32828  (Online Only)
Keresse Thompson is a seasoned therapist with a spiritual approach, leveraging over a decade of experience. Specializing in toxic relationships, narcissistic abuse, divorce/breakups, trauma healing, nervous system regulation, Borderline personality disorder and empaths, she supports clients through major life transitions. Keresse is also the host of a worldwide podcast and a Marine Veteran. Currently taking clients in Florida and Massachusetts.
Keresse Thompson is a seasoned therapist with a spiritual approach, leveraging over a decade of experience. Specializing in toxic relationships, narcissistic abuse, divorce/breakups, trauma healing, nervous system regulation, Borderline personality disorder and empaths, she supports clients through major life transitions. Keresse is also the host of a worldwide podcast and a Marine Veteran. Currently taking clients in Florida and Massachusetts.
(407) 676-7424 View (407) 676-7424
Photo of Darleen Claire Wodzenski, MS MA , PhD LPC, NCC ACS, Counselor
Darleen Claire Wodzenski
Counselor, MS MA , PhD LPC, NCC ACS
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32804  (Online Only)
We respectfully support you in your dreams, goals & inspirations. When you need guidance, we provide knowledge & insight about self-care & therapeutic strategies, approaching healing & recovery from a holistic perspective. Seamlessly integrate emotions, behaviors, lifestyle, relationships, education, leisure activities, self-care & career. Serving clients of all ages with such issues as Anxiety, Attachment Issues, Autism, Behavior Challenges, Borderline Personality Disorder, Depression, Developmental Disabilities, Dissociation, DID, OCD, ODD, Panic, PTSD, Trauma, Violence. Trauma; BIPOC; LGBTQIA+ and Polyamory respectful & informed.
We respectfully support you in your dreams, goals & inspirations. When you need guidance, we provide knowledge & insight about self-care & therapeutic strategies, approaching healing & recovery from a holistic perspective. Seamlessly integrate emotions, behaviors, lifestyle, relationships, education, leisure activities, self-care & career. Serving clients of all ages with such issues as Anxiety, Attachment Issues, Autism, Behavior Challenges, Borderline Personality Disorder, Depression, Developmental Disabilities, Dissociation, DID, OCD, ODD, Panic, PTSD, Trauma, Violence. Trauma; BIPOC; LGBTQIA+ and Polyamory respectful & informed.
(386) 223-1815 View (386) 223-1815
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 Sarah O'Hern, MS, LMHC, CCTP, Counselor
Sarah O'Hern
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CCTP
Verified Verified
36 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 Tena Thomas, LPC, Counselor
Tena Thomas
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32816  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping teens and adults navigate the challenges of BPD, ADHD, Anxiety, and Trauma.
Has fighting with emotions, planning your day around triggers, or feeling distracted and overstimulated become part of your everyday life? Maybe it feels like you can't quite get things right and you're searching for a deeper understanding of what's holding you back. It can be difficult to keep moving, especially when you have frequent symptoms. In our sessions, we will dive deep to uncover the messages you have absorbed from other people and give your inner child some love. We will laugh, cry, and learn together, all while guiding you towards healing.
I specialize in helping teens and adults navigate the challenges of BPD, ADHD, Anxiety, and Trauma.
Has fighting with emotions, planning your day around triggers, or feeling distracted and overstimulated become part of your everyday life? Maybe it feels like you can't quite get things right and you're searching for a deeper understanding of what's holding you back. It can be difficult to keep moving, especially when you have frequent symptoms. In our sessions, we will dive deep to uncover the messages you have absorbed from other people and give your inner child some love. We will laugh, cry, and learn together, all while guiding you towards healing.
(505) 392-5388 View (505) 392-5388
Photo of Alexis Hutson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexis Hutson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32802  (Online Only)
I specialize in providing therapeutic interventions meant to treat the debilitating symptoms of anxiety, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, intense emotional dysregulation, sense of worthlessness, lack of hope for the future, and Chronic Depression.
Are you someone who struggles to ask for help? Many times, we try to brute force our way through our day-to-day lives even if we are in distress or in need to speak with someone about how we are feeling. Sometimes we can allow shame or self-judgements to get in the way of talking about difficult symptoms or emotions with a professional. Being able to disclose and talk about these issues with someone who makes you feel safe and validated is so important. The process of disclosing may be uncomfortable at times, but it is not unbearable, so long as you have the proper clinician by your side!
I specialize in providing therapeutic interventions meant to treat the debilitating symptoms of anxiety, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, intense emotional dysregulation, sense of worthlessness, lack of hope for the future, and Chronic Depression.
Are you someone who struggles to ask for help? Many times, we try to brute force our way through our day-to-day lives even if we are in distress or in need to speak with someone about how we are feeling. Sometimes we can allow shame or self-judgements to get in the way of talking about difficult symptoms or emotions with a professional. Being able to disclose and talk about these issues with someone who makes you feel safe and validated is so important. The process of disclosing may be uncomfortable at times, but it is not unbearable, so long as you have the proper clinician by your side!
(561) 567-8154 View (561) 567-8154
Photo of Brooke Parker, LMHC, Counselor
Brooke Parker
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32819  (Online Only)
Anxiety and depression are my specialty areas, and I also have significant experience with addiction, ADHD, anger management, borderline personality disorder, codependency, LGBTQ+ issues, phase of life issues, relational issues, etc.
Hi there! I'm Brooke, and I'm here to help you to unpack all the emotional baggage that your family left for you handle all on your own. My goal as your therapist is to allow you the space that you need to process the issues that you have experienced throughout your life. I hope to create a warm and safe therapeutic environment where you will feel heard, where you will have the courage to share the things that have happened to you, and to help carry the weight of the things that have taken up space in your relationship with yourself and your relationships with others.
Anxiety and depression are my specialty areas, and I also have significant experience with addiction, ADHD, anger management, borderline personality disorder, codependency, LGBTQ+ issues, phase of life issues, relational issues, etc.
Hi there! I'm Brooke, and I'm here to help you to unpack all the emotional baggage that your family left for you handle all on your own. My goal as your therapist is to allow you the space that you need to process the issues that you have experienced throughout your life. I hope to create a warm and safe therapeutic environment where you will feel heard, where you will have the courage to share the things that have happened to you, and to help carry the weight of the things that have taken up space in your relationship with yourself and your relationships with others.
(407) 602-6711 View (407) 602-6711
Photo of Sherry Pitts, MSW, RCSWI, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sherry Pitts
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, RCSWI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32835
I work with adolescents and adults experiencing Anxiety, Depression, Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), Suicidal Ideation and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
I focus on individuals who are seeking clarity and understanding in their lives to become all they are purposed to be. Your diagnosis is not who you are. I will work with you in breaking free of the thoughts, symptoms and judgements that often hold you back. My goal is to provide individuals with tools to live a life worth living while celebrating the wins along the way.
I work with adolescents and adults experiencing Anxiety, Depression, Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), Suicidal Ideation and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
I focus on individuals who are seeking clarity and understanding in their lives to become all they are purposed to be. Your diagnosis is not who you are. I will work with you in breaking free of the thoughts, symptoms and judgements that often hold you back. My goal is to provide individuals with tools to live a life worth living while celebrating the wins along the way.
(407) 544-6405 View (407) 544-6405
Photo of Rana J Abbas - Mind Balance Counseling LLC, MA, LMHC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mind Balance Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32822
Rana is trained in the Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing approach (EMDR) which works with multiple disorders. Rana is experienced in trauma (PTSD), bipolar disorder, eating disorder, borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, phobia, ADHD, anger management, and mood disorder. In her practice, Individual counseling, family counseling, couples counseling, and LGBTQ. She is well versed and knowledgeable in several counseling techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Solution-focused therapy, Mindfulness therapy, and existential therapy.
Rana is trained in the Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing approach (EMDR) which works with multiple disorders. Rana is experienced in trauma (PTSD), bipolar disorder, eating disorder, borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, phobia, ADHD, anger management, and mood disorder. In her practice, Individual counseling, family counseling, couples counseling, and LGBTQ. She is well versed and knowledgeable in several counseling techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Solution-focused therapy, Mindfulness therapy, and existential therapy.
(248) 599-0142 View (248) 599-0142
Photo of Jessie Cuadros, LMHC, Counselor
Jessie Cuadros
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32803
My specialties are working with those dealing with trauma, grief & loss, personality disorders (such as BPD), and Severe & Persistent Mental Illness.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who is bilingual in English and Spanish. I value the counseling process and believe everyone deserves someone to walk with them along life’s journey. I honor the importance of a caring relationship in the counseling setting in order to address and face life’s challenges. My hope is to offer a safe and welcoming environment to explore these experiences. I am Certified in EMDR which has been highly effective in treating trauma as well as other issues. I have a passion to work with those who have lost a pregnancy (via miscarriage, abortion, or stillbirth) and do so with great sensitivity.
My specialties are working with those dealing with trauma, grief & loss, personality disorders (such as BPD), and Severe & Persistent Mental Illness.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who is bilingual in English and Spanish. I value the counseling process and believe everyone deserves someone to walk with them along life’s journey. I honor the importance of a caring relationship in the counseling setting in order to address and face life’s challenges. My hope is to offer a safe and welcoming environment to explore these experiences. I am Certified in EMDR which has been highly effective in treating trauma as well as other issues. I have a passion to work with those who have lost a pregnancy (via miscarriage, abortion, or stillbirth) and do so with great sensitivity.
(407) 250-1786 View (407) 250-1786
Photo of Aimee Mahjouri, LHMC, QS, Counselor
Aimee Mahjouri
Counselor, LHMC, QS
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32817
My niche includes working with attachment across a wide spectrum - from those navigating wounded attachments that led to the development of BPD, to those navigating pregnancy and postpartum.
I get it, life is hard. As a highly sensitive person myself, I believed for most of my life that there was something wrong with me - until I learned what a superpower high levels of empathy and sensitivity can be. I believe it takes a tremendous amount of strength to reach out for help when feelings of hopelessness seem to take over, and I also believe that emotional vulnerability is a difficult yet courageous act of self-love and self-compassion. Going to therapy is brave, and I want to acknowledge your first step towards healing: you are here, and I am so glad that you are.
My niche includes working with attachment across a wide spectrum - from those navigating wounded attachments that led to the development of BPD, to those navigating pregnancy and postpartum.
I get it, life is hard. As a highly sensitive person myself, I believed for most of my life that there was something wrong with me - until I learned what a superpower high levels of empathy and sensitivity can be. I believe it takes a tremendous amount of strength to reach out for help when feelings of hopelessness seem to take over, and I also believe that emotional vulnerability is a difficult yet courageous act of self-love and self-compassion. Going to therapy is brave, and I want to acknowledge your first step towards healing: you are here, and I am so glad that you are.
(407) 901-3422 View (407) 901-3422
Photo of Essence Fiddemon, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Essence Fiddemon
Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32801
Struggling with feeling inadequate and not good enough? Are you someone that struggles with enmeshment, boundaries, perfectionism, anxiety, depression and trauma? Do your personal struggles impact your relationships with others? I work with parents and individuals who live with Borderline personality disorder, clinical anxiety, unhealthy enmeshment, perfectionism and depression. I do treat trauma. I pride myself on giving my clients skills that they need to be successful while also building insight into their struggles. We will work towards taking accountability and setting boundaries while validating our struggles.
Struggling with feeling inadequate and not good enough? Are you someone that struggles with enmeshment, boundaries, perfectionism, anxiety, depression and trauma? Do your personal struggles impact your relationships with others? I work with parents and individuals who live with Borderline personality disorder, clinical anxiety, unhealthy enmeshment, perfectionism and depression. I do treat trauma. I pride myself on giving my clients skills that they need to be successful while also building insight into their struggles. We will work towards taking accountability and setting boundaries while validating our struggles.
(404) 689-2936 View (404) 689-2936
Photo of Pedro Michael Valdez IV, MA, LMHC, C-PD, Counselor
Pedro Michael Valdez IV
Counselor, MA, LMHC, C-PD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32828
Does the past keep sneaking up on you whether that’s in the form of intrusive memories, difficult sleeping (nightmares, trouble falling asleep, or staying asleep), experiencing emotions of guilt or other overwhelming emotions that leaves you struggling for air, a constant low-grade anxiety that keeps you preoccupied, or staying constantly busy so that you can continue avoiding people, place, thoughts or situations. Maybe you keep telling yourself to put the past behind you but that doesn’t seem to work either. With trauma, you need something more even if sometimes you still question whether what you went through was traumatic.
Does the past keep sneaking up on you whether that’s in the form of intrusive memories, difficult sleeping (nightmares, trouble falling asleep, or staying asleep), experiencing emotions of guilt or other overwhelming emotions that leaves you struggling for air, a constant low-grade anxiety that keeps you preoccupied, or staying constantly busy so that you can continue avoiding people, place, thoughts or situations. Maybe you keep telling yourself to put the past behind you but that doesn’t seem to work either. With trauma, you need something more even if sometimes you still question whether what you went through was traumatic.
(352) 660-1974 View (352) 660-1974
Photo of Andrea Scott, LMHC, QCS, MCAP, Counselor
Andrea Scott
Counselor, LMHC, QCS, MCAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32804  (Online Only)
It can be challenging to want to make a change, invest in yourself, try to view your life without judgment, and having no idea where to start. Truth be told, you don't need to know where to start, just that you want something to be different. Your willingness to examine yourself is what you bring to sessions and my experience and skill is where I meet you in those sessions. My role is to challenge you when you’re stuck and keep you accountable, providing education and practical skills to use in daily life, and support you through the discomfort of change and vulnerability - and to celebrate the successes that follow.
It can be challenging to want to make a change, invest in yourself, try to view your life without judgment, and having no idea where to start. Truth be told, you don't need to know where to start, just that you want something to be different. Your willingness to examine yourself is what you bring to sessions and my experience and skill is where I meet you in those sessions. My role is to challenge you when you’re stuck and keep you accountable, providing education and practical skills to use in daily life, and support you through the discomfort of change and vulnerability - and to celebrate the successes that follow.
(321) 415-3517 View (321) 415-3517
Photo of Jackie Schaffer, MA, RMHCI
Jackie Schaffer
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MA, RMHCI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32803
Hello and welcome! My hope when providing therapy is to create a comfortable and judgement-free environment meant to foster self-discovery and personal growth. Above ALL else, I seek genuine connection and bring authenticity to every session. I understand building a trusting and empathic therapeutic relationship is the cornerstone of healing.
Hello and welcome! My hope when providing therapy is to create a comfortable and judgement-free environment meant to foster self-discovery and personal growth. Above ALL else, I seek genuine connection and bring authenticity to every session. I understand building a trusting and empathic therapeutic relationship is the cornerstone of healing.
(689) 202-4181 View (689) 202-4181
Photo of Brianna Leigh Brown, MA, LMHC, LPCC, NCC, Counselor
Brianna Leigh Brown
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32828
My eclectic approach to counseling includes person-centered psychotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and solution-focused therapeutic theories. I provide my clients with unconditional positive regard and empathetic understanding, creating a warm, positive, and welcoming atmosphere to encourage all clients to feel safe while sharing their personal story. I utilize evidenced-based therapy techniques and mindfulness to help clients cope with distress, regulate emotions, communicate more effectively, identify and reduce self-destructive behavior patterns, and find balance on a day-to-day basis. I meet the individual needs of each client to foster personal empowerment and growth.
My eclectic approach to counseling includes person-centered psychotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and solution-focused therapeutic theories. I provide my clients with unconditional positive regard and empathetic understanding, creating a warm, positive, and welcoming atmosphere to encourage all clients to feel safe while sharing their personal story. I utilize evidenced-based therapy techniques and mindfulness to help clients cope with distress, regulate emotions, communicate more effectively, identify and reduce self-destructive behavior patterns, and find balance on a day-to-day basis. I meet the individual needs of each client to foster personal empowerment and growth.
(407) 275-0745 View (407) 275-0745
Photo of Jennifer Torres, MA, LMHC, RYT, Counselor
Jennifer Torres
Counselor, MA, LMHC, RYT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32803
"Quiet the mind, and the soul will speak." I am here to help you find happiness and peace. I hold a masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Central Florida and am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Qualified Clinical Supervisor. I am also a Registered Yoga teacher. I have experience working with young children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. I specialize in providing Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. I am also fully bilingual in Spanish and welcome Latinos in need of counseling with someone who speaks their language and understands their culture.
"Quiet the mind, and the soul will speak." I am here to help you find happiness and peace. I hold a masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Central Florida and am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Qualified Clinical Supervisor. I am also a Registered Yoga teacher. I have experience working with young children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. I specialize in providing Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. I am also fully bilingual in Spanish and welcome Latinos in need of counseling with someone who speaks their language and understands their culture.
(321) 234-0924 View (321) 234-0924
Photo of Christine M Hammond, MS, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Christine M Hammond
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32801
Christine is a leading mental health influencer, author, and guest speaker. As an author of the award-winning “The Exhausted Woman’s Handbook,” and more than 500 articles, Christine has more than one million people downloading her podcast “Understanding Today’s Narcissist,” and more than 400,000 views on YouTube. Christine is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Qualified Supervisor by the State of Florida, a National Certified Counselor, Certified Family Trauma Professional, with extensive training in crisis intervention and peaceful resolution.
Christine is a leading mental health influencer, author, and guest speaker. As an author of the award-winning “The Exhausted Woman’s Handbook,” and more than 500 articles, Christine has more than one million people downloading her podcast “Understanding Today’s Narcissist,” and more than 400,000 views on YouTube. Christine is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Qualified Supervisor by the State of Florida, a National Certified Counselor, Certified Family Trauma Professional, with extensive training in crisis intervention and peaceful resolution.
(407) 603-3232 View (407) 603-3232
Photo of Natalia Urquiza-Manzano, LMHC, CCHt
Natalia Urquiza-Manzano
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, CCHt
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32805
Many of my clients come to me while navigating relationship problems, low self-esteem, lack of assertiveness, and feeling disorganized or stagnant in their lives. They may be dealing with challenges like addiction, past trauma, or unhealthy attachments. I also work with individuals recovering from sexual assault or emotional abuse. My clients are not just seeking healing but transformation, aiming to overcome obstacles that hinder their path to love, peace, success, abundance, and freedom.
Many of my clients come to me while navigating relationship problems, low self-esteem, lack of assertiveness, and feeling disorganized or stagnant in their lives. They may be dealing with challenges like addiction, past trauma, or unhealthy attachments. I also work with individuals recovering from sexual assault or emotional abuse. My clients are not just seeking healing but transformation, aiming to overcome obstacles that hinder their path to love, peace, success, abundance, and freedom.
(954) 787-1337 View (954) 787-1337
Photo of Tammy Mantalas Rapid Resolution Therapy
Tammy Mantalas Rapid Resolution Therapy
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32803
Is it hard just to function and get through the day? Ready for a change? Most of my practice is based on the use of Rapid Resolution Therapy brain-based techniques as it is gentle, fun and quick; relieving unwanted symptoms in as little as 1-3 sessions. I am also certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and a Prepare and Enrich Facilitator as well as trained in traditional therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Multimodal Therapy and Mindful Practices
Is it hard just to function and get through the day? Ready for a change? Most of my practice is based on the use of Rapid Resolution Therapy brain-based techniques as it is gentle, fun and quick; relieving unwanted symptoms in as little as 1-3 sessions. I am also certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and a Prepare and Enrich Facilitator as well as trained in traditional therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Multimodal Therapy and Mindful Practices
(407) 490-1477 View (407) 490-1477
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.