Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in Florida

Photo of Dr. Lydia Kalsner-Silver, Psychologist
Dr. Lydia Kalsner-Silver
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Miami Beach, FL 33140
My areas of specialty include Borderline Personality Disorder, anxiety disorders, treatment resistant depression, eating disorders, and trauma.
I am a licensed psychologist with extensive training and experience in the treatment of adults, children and families. As part of the South Florida DBT Consortium, I am a certified DBT- Linehan Board Clinician. Additionally, my group practice is a Linehan Board Certified Dialectical Behavior Therapy Program and provides individual and group therapy to children, adolescents, adults and parents. My credentials include a doctoral degree from Rutgers University and two masters degrees in psychology from Columbia University. I also have extensive postdoctoral training and expertise in the treatment of children & families.
My areas of specialty include Borderline Personality Disorder, anxiety disorders, treatment resistant depression, eating disorders, and trauma.
I am a licensed psychologist with extensive training and experience in the treatment of adults, children and families. As part of the South Florida DBT Consortium, I am a certified DBT- Linehan Board Clinician. Additionally, my group practice is a Linehan Board Certified Dialectical Behavior Therapy Program and provides individual and group therapy to children, adolescents, adults and parents. My credentials include a doctoral degree from Rutgers University and two masters degrees in psychology from Columbia University. I also have extensive postdoctoral training and expertise in the treatment of children & families.
(305) 423-9942 View (305) 423-9942
Photo of Cristina Oliver, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cristina Oliver
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33129
As a foundationally trained DBT therapist, I specialize in treating borderline personality disorder, eating disorders, body image, anxiety, depression, family conflicts, relationship issues, and self-harm.
Are you struggling with your relationships? Are you finding it difficult to function in every day activities? Do you feel like you're driven more by emotions than values or goals? As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I compassionately help individuals build greater insight and provide them with tools to better navigate thoughts, emotions and urges that keep them stuck. These maladaptive reactions can interfere with who we want to be and the life we want to live. I can guide you in accepting and tolerating realities that are difficult to accept while also learning how to communicate, cope, and problem solve more effectively.
As a foundationally trained DBT therapist, I specialize in treating borderline personality disorder, eating disorders, body image, anxiety, depression, family conflicts, relationship issues, and self-harm.
Are you struggling with your relationships? Are you finding it difficult to function in every day activities? Do you feel like you're driven more by emotions than values or goals? As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I compassionately help individuals build greater insight and provide them with tools to better navigate thoughts, emotions and urges that keep them stuck. These maladaptive reactions can interfere with who we want to be and the life we want to live. I can guide you in accepting and tolerating realities that are difficult to accept while also learning how to communicate, cope, and problem solve more effectively.
(786) 581-8591 View (786) 581-8591
Photo of Paula Averruz-Genie, MFTI, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Paula Averruz-Genie
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MFTI, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33176
I specialize working with folks who have BPD,complex PTSD, anxiety, & depression.
Tired of not being in control of your emotions? Tired of not feeling good enough or masking how you feel? Do you have a history of difficult interpersonal relationships, fear of abandonment, chronic feelings of emptiness, or impulsive behavior? If you answered yes to any of these, there is no need to feel ashamed. You have most likely experienced attachment injuries, trauma, invalidation, consistent messages that you are not good enough, not worthy of love or you may have come to blame yourself for most of the bad things that have happened to you or your loved ones. These beliefs are distorted and I am here to help you dissect them.
I specialize working with folks who have BPD,complex PTSD, anxiety, & depression.
Tired of not being in control of your emotions? Tired of not feeling good enough or masking how you feel? Do you have a history of difficult interpersonal relationships, fear of abandonment, chronic feelings of emptiness, or impulsive behavior? If you answered yes to any of these, there is no need to feel ashamed. You have most likely experienced attachment injuries, trauma, invalidation, consistent messages that you are not good enough, not worthy of love or you may have come to blame yourself for most of the bad things that have happened to you or your loved ones. These beliefs are distorted and I am here to help you dissect them.
(786) 789-1205 View (786) 789-1205
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 Kristin Elizabeth Jones, DHSc, LMHC, Counselor
Kristin Elizabeth Jones
Counselor, DHSc, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33137  (Online Only)
Helping people to live more balanced and healthy lives is my passion. I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders, anxiety disorders, borderline personality disorder, and depression, utilizing DBT, CBT, ACT, and mindfulness in my approach. I am intensively trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). My approach to therapy involves collaborating with the client to create a fulfilling and value driven life. I enjoy helping people to improve self-awareness, face fears, and increase feelings of mastery and contentment.
Helping people to live more balanced and healthy lives is my passion. I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders, anxiety disorders, borderline personality disorder, and depression, utilizing DBT, CBT, ACT, and mindfulness in my approach. I am intensively trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). My approach to therapy involves collaborating with the client to create a fulfilling and value driven life. I enjoy helping people to improve self-awareness, face fears, and increase feelings of mastery and contentment.
(305) 834-4442 View (305) 834-4442
Photo of Brianna Doran, MS, LMHC
Brianna Doran
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Melbourne, FL 32940  (Online Only)
Accepting help can be incredibly difficult and very scary; especially when you don't know what you're looking for! I recognize that mental health is complex, and I take a very person-forward approach to help you and/or your family reach healthy goals and feel better! Hi, I’m Brianna! I am a mental health counselor specializing in trauma, eating disorders, borderline personality disorder, and bipolar/other serious mental health issues. Currently pursuing my Ph.D. in Developmental Psychology (focusing in women's development)! I especially love working with pre-teen, teen girls, and women!
Accepting help can be incredibly difficult and very scary; especially when you don't know what you're looking for! I recognize that mental health is complex, and I take a very person-forward approach to help you and/or your family reach healthy goals and feel better! Hi, I’m Brianna! I am a mental health counselor specializing in trauma, eating disorders, borderline personality disorder, and bipolar/other serious mental health issues. Currently pursuing my Ph.D. in Developmental Psychology (focusing in women's development)! I especially love working with pre-teen, teen girls, and women!
(321) 541-4734 View (321) 541-4734
Photo of Brooke Parker, LMHC, Counselor
Brooke Parker
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Altamonte Springs, FL 32701  (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 Rachel Whipple Blogg, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Whipple Blogg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33431
I am an intensively trained DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) therapist specializing in Borderline Personality Disorder, Anxiety Disorder, and Emotion Dysregulation. I work with individuals, couples and families struggling with self-harm and self-destructive behaviors themselves or with a loved one. My ideal client is someone who is willing to make the changes that is necessary in order to build a life that is meaningful. I am also licensed in California, Colorado, Connecticut, Missouri, New York, Oregon and Virginia.
I am an intensively trained DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) therapist specializing in Borderline Personality Disorder, Anxiety Disorder, and Emotion Dysregulation. I work with individuals, couples and families struggling with self-harm and self-destructive behaviors themselves or with a loved one. My ideal client is someone who is willing to make the changes that is necessary in order to build a life that is meaningful. I am also licensed in California, Colorado, Connecticut, Missouri, New York, Oregon and Virginia.
(754) 227-2289 View (754) 227-2289
Photo of Keresse Thompson, LCSW , LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Keresse Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW , LICSW
Verified Verified
2 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 Holly Bedotto, PsyD, Psychologist
Holly Bedotto
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33137
"Therapy is a journey one takes with a trusted professional who will walk side by side, at times guiding and at times following. There are no preconceived notions about this journey however brief or extended." These are the words I have shared over many years of training young professionals. Though I treat all types of individuals, my area of specialty is complex trauma - borderline personality disorder, PTSD, and dissociation. I am intensively trained in DBT and have been practicing and teaching DBT for over fifteen years. My team is DBT by Design/South FL DBT Consortium.
"Therapy is a journey one takes with a trusted professional who will walk side by side, at times guiding and at times following. There are no preconceived notions about this journey however brief or extended." These are the words I have shared over many years of training young professionals. Though I treat all types of individuals, my area of specialty is complex trauma - borderline personality disorder, PTSD, and dissociation. I am intensively trained in DBT and have been practicing and teaching DBT for over fifteen years. My team is DBT by Design/South FL DBT Consortium.
(786) 250-2958 View (786) 250-2958
Photo of Lynnell Moss - Systems Family Therapy, LLC, LMFT, C-PD, C-DBT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Systems Family Therapy, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, C-PD, C-DBT
Verified Verified
The Villages, FL 32162  (Online Only)
We also specialize in managing Borderline Personality Disorder, Mood Disorder, Trauma/PTSD and Bipolar Disorder.
If you’re feeling lost, broken, helpless …Alone. We can help. We make talking easy, confidential and safe. We work well with shy, socially anxious or nervous people. We’re ready and we can make a difference!
We also specialize in managing Borderline Personality Disorder, Mood Disorder, Trauma/PTSD and Bipolar Disorder.
If you’re feeling lost, broken, helpless …Alone. We can help. We make talking easy, confidential and safe. We work well with shy, socially anxious or nervous people. We’re ready and we can make a difference!
(407) 205-7236 View (407) 205-7236
Photo of Barbara Moore - Barbara Moore, PhD, LCSW, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Barbara Moore, PhD, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sebring, FL 33876  (Online Only)
Welcome! Creating a safe environment is the first step toward meaningful change. I have been a psychotherapist for more than 20 years, and it has been my privilege to assist people in both outpatient and inpatient psychiatric settings. I have experience treating a broad range of disorders, and my specialties include depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder, and narcissism. I hold an MSSW from Columbia University and a PhD in Social Welfare from Case Western Reserve University. I did my clinical internship and postdoctoral work at Yale University School of Medicine. I use a variety of evidence-based approaches, including CBT, DBT, Seeking Safety, Motivational Interviewing, and exposure therapies for PTSD. I respect and admire folks who want to grow and overcome their challenges. I hope I can be there to support you on that journey. We will talk about what you would like to achieve in therapy, and we will map out a way to get there.
Welcome! Creating a safe environment is the first step toward meaningful change. I have been a psychotherapist for more than 20 years, and it has been my privilege to assist people in both outpatient and inpatient psychiatric settings. I have experience treating a broad range of disorders, and my specialties include depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder, and narcissism. I hold an MSSW from Columbia University and a PhD in Social Welfare from Case Western Reserve University. I did my clinical internship and postdoctoral work at Yale University School of Medicine. I use a variety of evidence-based approaches, including CBT, DBT, Seeking Safety, Motivational Interviewing, and exposure therapies for PTSD. I respect and admire folks who want to grow and overcome their challenges. I hope I can be there to support you on that journey. We will talk about what you would like to achieve in therapy, and we will map out a way to get there.
(863) 591-5930 View (863) 591-5930
Photo of Laura J Dallalio-Crotty, MS, LMHC, LPCC, Counselor
Laura J Dallalio-Crotty
Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Fort Myers, FL 33907  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
People with Borderline Personality Disorder often have a strong sense of abandonment, struggle to maintain healthy relationships, have very intense emotions, act impulsively, and under extreme stress may even experience paranoia and dissociation.
Laura J. Dallalio-Crotty, LMHC, LPCC, Masters in Counseling Psychology, specializes in Standard Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) which is an evidence based practice that has been found to be effective in helping individuals who struggle with intense, out of control emotions, chaotic relationships and impulsivity. DBT is effective for anyone who wants to make changes in their life, and is often used for those who suffer from depression, trauma, suicidal ideation, anxiety or self harm. Laura J. Dallalio-Crotty is extensively trained in DBT with over ten years of experience.
People with Borderline Personality Disorder often have a strong sense of abandonment, struggle to maintain healthy relationships, have very intense emotions, act impulsively, and under extreme stress may even experience paranoia and dissociation.
Laura J. Dallalio-Crotty, LMHC, LPCC, Masters in Counseling Psychology, specializes in Standard Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) which is an evidence based practice that has been found to be effective in helping individuals who struggle with intense, out of control emotions, chaotic relationships and impulsivity. DBT is effective for anyone who wants to make changes in their life, and is often used for those who suffer from depression, trauma, suicidal ideation, anxiety or self harm. Laura J. Dallalio-Crotty is extensively trained in DBT with over ten years of experience.
(239) 268-6631 View (239) 268-6631
Photo of Alyssa K Rothenberg, PsyD, MScA, PMH-C, Psychologist
Alyssa K Rothenberg
Psychologist, PsyD, MScA, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Weston, FL 33326
Trained in CBT/DBT, I target mood/anxiety conditions and self-harm with family-focused strategies for managing Borderline Personality Disorder.
I have extensive skills with adolescents/adults/families yet conceptualize my role as guiding others to vibrantly re-illuminate their lives. My passion for psychotherapy stems from my appreciation for communication as a healing agent, intensified by my MSc. in Speech Pathology from McGill University. When challenged by traumatic medical events, I was struck by patients’ capacity to recover cognitive-linguistic functioning as well as purpose/identity. At Nova Southeastern University, I cultivated expertise in individual, family, and group counseling with sensitivity to language differences/disorders and/or multiple disabilities.
Trained in CBT/DBT, I target mood/anxiety conditions and self-harm with family-focused strategies for managing Borderline Personality Disorder.
I have extensive skills with adolescents/adults/families yet conceptualize my role as guiding others to vibrantly re-illuminate their lives. My passion for psychotherapy stems from my appreciation for communication as a healing agent, intensified by my MSc. in Speech Pathology from McGill University. When challenged by traumatic medical events, I was struck by patients’ capacity to recover cognitive-linguistic functioning as well as purpose/identity. At Nova Southeastern University, I cultivated expertise in individual, family, and group counseling with sensitivity to language differences/disorders and/or multiple disabilities.
(786) 971-2534 View (786) 971-2534
Michael Joseph Zalewa
Counselor, LMHC, MAC, SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I have been in Private Practice since 1999. My practice focuses on clients struggling with Borderline Personality Disorder,Dissociative Identity Disorder, Narcissism and other personality conflicts. I also treat Depression and PTSD. I work with Substance Use disorders, but from a non-12 step approach called Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I work with the local courts, including mental health and substance abuse evaluations. I provide psycho-sexual and competency to proceed evaluations for private attorneys as well as for the 4th and 7th judicial circuits
I have been in Private Practice since 1999. My practice focuses on clients struggling with Borderline Personality Disorder,Dissociative Identity Disorder, Narcissism and other personality conflicts. I also treat Depression and PTSD. I work with Substance Use disorders, but from a non-12 step approach called Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I work with the local courts, including mental health and substance abuse evaluations. I provide psycho-sexual and competency to proceed evaluations for private attorneys as well as for the 4th and 7th judicial circuits
(904) 770-3129 View (904) 770-3129
Photo of Tena Thomas, LPC, Counselor
Tena Thomas
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Augustine, FL 32080  (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 Sherry Pitts, MSW, RCSWI, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sherry Pitts
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, RCSWI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maitland, FL 32751
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 Danielle Mullon, LCSW, DBT-LBC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danielle Mullon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DBT-LBC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33138  (Online Only)
One of three certified DBT therapists in the Miami area, I specialize in emotion dysregulation and borderline personality disorder. Have you been in therapy before but have never seen lasting change? Does it seem like you take one step forward and two steps back? Could you benefit from more structure and accountability in your treatment?
One of three certified DBT therapists in the Miami area, I specialize in emotion dysregulation and borderline personality disorder. Have you been in therapy before but have never seen lasting change? Does it seem like you take one step forward and two steps back? Could you benefit from more structure and accountability in your treatment?
(305) 570-3429 View (305) 570-3429
Photo of Rondi Noden, MSW, RCSWI, Pre-Licensed Professional
Rondi Noden
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, RCSWI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lithia, FL 33547  (Online Only)
I am a highly experienced social worker and mental health counselor with over ten years of experience working with adults, adolescents, and families within trauma-informed care settings. Specializing in eating disorders and with experience working in substance use, I understand the lengthy journey individuals face as they work to address painful life experiences and learn healthy and effective coping skills. Additionally, I am skilled in dual diagnosis, borderline personality disorder, anxiety and depressive disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
I am a highly experienced social worker and mental health counselor with over ten years of experience working with adults, adolescents, and families within trauma-informed care settings. Specializing in eating disorders and with experience working in substance use, I understand the lengthy journey individuals face as they work to address painful life experiences and learn healthy and effective coping skills. Additionally, I am skilled in dual diagnosis, borderline personality disorder, anxiety and depressive disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
(863) 431-9636 View (863) 431-9636
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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.