Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in Florida
I love working with anyone ready to figure out how to live his or her best version of themselves whether it is finding freedom from trauma, depression, anxiety, transition or other psychological disorders. I have extensive experience leading a wide range of groups for adults and adolescents. I lead Parent Coaching groups utilizing Gottman’s Emotion Coaching Parenting, and DBT adolescent and adult groups for individuals and families suffering from BPD, Bipolar and other co-occurring and personality diagnosis. I've also lead groups and seminars regarding addiction recovery, self-discovery and team dynamics using the Enneagram.
I love working with anyone ready to figure out how to live his or her best version of themselves whether it is finding freedom from trauma, depression, anxiety, transition or other psychological disorders. I have extensive experience leading a wide range of groups for adults and adolescents. I lead Parent Coaching groups utilizing Gottman’s Emotion Coaching Parenting, and DBT adolescent and adult groups for individuals and families suffering from BPD, Bipolar and other co-occurring and personality diagnosis. I've also lead groups and seminars regarding addiction recovery, self-discovery and team dynamics using the Enneagram.
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.
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.
Some of these treatments include; diverse diagnoses, BPD, Bi-Polar, PTSD, depression, addictions, grieve, and dissociative disorders.
I have been in the mental health field for over 25 years, receiving my MSW from Indiana University Northwest School of Social Work. In my private practice, I have the freedom to conduct sessions in a relaxed, hopeful environment. Therapy on THE BEACH uses a positive approach to bring about change. I have worked with all age groups; working with families to integrate children back into their family settings. Clients with dysregulated moods, depression, anxiety and anger issues. Working with couples through my own technique WAR. Working with the elderly who often times feel like they are facing depression and end of life issues alone.
Some of these treatments include; diverse diagnoses, BPD, Bi-Polar, PTSD, depression, addictions, grieve, and dissociative disorders.
I have been in the mental health field for over 25 years, receiving my MSW from Indiana University Northwest School of Social Work. In my private practice, I have the freedom to conduct sessions in a relaxed, hopeful environment. Therapy on THE BEACH uses a positive approach to bring about change. I have worked with all age groups; working with families to integrate children back into their family settings. Clients with dysregulated moods, depression, anxiety and anger issues. Working with couples through my own technique WAR. Working with the elderly who often times feel like they are facing depression and end of life issues alone.
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.
Rachel Whipple Blogg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33431
I have years of experience working with Borderline Personality Disorder, Anxiety Disorders and Emotional Dsyregulation.
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 have years of experience working with Borderline Personality Disorder, Anxiety Disorders and Emotional Dsyregulation.
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.
Daniela Krotzer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, EMDR-C, IFS-C, CDBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coral Springs, FL 33076 (Online Only)
Daniela has expertise in various areas, such as trauma, PTSD, grief, relationship challenges, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, suicidal thoughts, self-injury, depression, anxiety, and more.
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you put your needs at the bottom of the to-do list? Do you wonder if life should feel somehow better? Happier? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their relationships, careers, and lives. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. I believe it shouldn’t be so hard to live a better life. Book a consultation today, and we’ll get started on your journey together at drdanielakrotzer.com.
Daniela has expertise in various areas, such as trauma, PTSD, grief, relationship challenges, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, suicidal thoughts, self-injury, depression, anxiety, and more.
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you put your needs at the bottom of the to-do list? Do you wonder if life should feel somehow better? Happier? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their relationships, careers, and lives. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. I believe it shouldn’t be so hard to live a better life. Book a consultation today, and we’ll get started on your journey together at drdanielakrotzer.com.
Dr. Mark L. Ruffalo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, DPsa, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33647
My approach to psychotherapy is the time-honored psychoanalytic method, which seeks resolution of the deep-rooted, underlying issues leading to emotional distress. I have experience working with a range of conditions, including mood, personality, and psychosomatic disorders. I have particular interest in the psychotherapy of schizophrenia and borderline personality disorder, and in working with individuals who have not previously, or only partially, responded to treatment. In addition to my private work, I hold faculty appointments in psychiatry at the University of Central Florida and Tufts Medical School.
My approach to psychotherapy is the time-honored psychoanalytic method, which seeks resolution of the deep-rooted, underlying issues leading to emotional distress. I have experience working with a range of conditions, including mood, personality, and psychosomatic disorders. I have particular interest in the psychotherapy of schizophrenia and borderline personality disorder, and in working with individuals who have not previously, or only partially, responded to treatment. In addition to my private work, I hold faculty appointments in psychiatry at the University of Central Florida and Tufts Medical School.
Raquel Lumia
Counselor, MA, MS, LMHC, CCTP, CCTS-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33432
My career has spanned over 15 years with regards to working with client suffering from both mental illness and substance abuse issues. My ideal client are those individuals who seem beyond the scope of traditional therapy. I enjoy working with clients struggling with psychosis, borderline personality disorders, anger issues, substance abuse issues, and trauma. I also specialize in sex trafficking and enjoy working with offenders.
My career has spanned over 15 years with regards to working with client suffering from both mental illness and substance abuse issues. My ideal client are those individuals who seem beyond the scope of traditional therapy. I enjoy working with clients struggling with psychosis, borderline personality disorders, anger issues, substance abuse issues, and trauma. I also specialize in sex trafficking and enjoy working with offenders.
Emily Camera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33710
My treatment specialities include BPD, identity, and emotion regulation.
Sometimes, we suppress our true identities and silence our voices because of external pressures and expectations, which ultimately keeps us from creating lives worth living. You deserve a space where you can be exactly who you are and become exactly who you want to be, in a way that makes you feel seen and validated. My aspiration is to be the kind of therapist my generational peers and I would have needed as adolescents: one who is solution-focused, authentic, nonjudgmental, will call you on your BS (gently!), and genuinely cares about you and your progress. (I do not treat couples or families at this time).
My treatment specialities include BPD, identity, and emotion regulation.
Sometimes, we suppress our true identities and silence our voices because of external pressures and expectations, which ultimately keeps us from creating lives worth living. You deserve a space where you can be exactly who you are and become exactly who you want to be, in a way that makes you feel seen and validated. My aspiration is to be the kind of therapist my generational peers and I would have needed as adolescents: one who is solution-focused, authentic, nonjudgmental, will call you on your BS (gently!), and genuinely cares about you and your progress. (I do not treat couples or families at this time).
I specialize in dysregulation of intense emotions, anxiety, depression, challenges with self esteem, impulsivity, self harm, PTSD/trauma, trouble with relationships, parent coaching, and Borderline Personality Disorder.
My clinical experience has given me the tools to help you tackle whatever is standing in the way of your happiness. I am trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and DBT Prolonged Exposure. Both modalities have been found to be effective in treating PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder, emotion dysregulation, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and more. Through DBT, I am able to assist my clients in creating a Life Worth Living. Together, we can mindfully tackle the problems that are getting in your way by learning the tools that will help you handle and overcome them.
I specialize in dysregulation of intense emotions, anxiety, depression, challenges with self esteem, impulsivity, self harm, PTSD/trauma, trouble with relationships, parent coaching, and Borderline Personality Disorder.
My clinical experience has given me the tools to help you tackle whatever is standing in the way of your happiness. I am trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and DBT Prolonged Exposure. Both modalities have been found to be effective in treating PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder, emotion dysregulation, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and more. Through DBT, I am able to assist my clients in creating a Life Worth Living. Together, we can mindfully tackle the problems that are getting in your way by learning the tools that will help you handle and overcome them.
15 Second Videos
Cristina Oliver
Esther McDonough
Rachel Whipple Blogg
Kaylee Brenneman
Tena Thomas
Keresse Thompson
Sarah O'Hern
Zoe Skowronski
Julie Jakobi
Darly Sebastian
Angel Geis
Darleen Claire Wodzenski
Terry Ann Dornak
Marika Joubert
Marika Joubert
Darleen Claire Wodzenski
Victoria McCann (Frontline Therapy)
Alyse November
Merceydes Morassi
Lashawn Tuper
Heidi Chinlund
Leehe Finer
Mina Tarquinio
Mason Mills
Kate Lombardo
Rainier McCall
Jennifer Ann Counseling Now accepting new clients!
Maryam Archer
Todd Warren
Susel de la Cruz
Arielle Kanitz
Green Mountain DBT
Robin DeBates
Joseph Choy
Kelsey Harper, Psy.D.
Nicolas J Comeau
Shannon Marie Hargrave
Brave Health
Makahala Hepburn
Mindy Appel
Ashley Franchino @ Avanti
Arvon & Associates in Counseling
Amy Wagner
Sarah Porter
Danielle S Dance
Pamela L Baker
Melissa McVan, LMHC Inc.
Melissa Fulton, M.S., LMHC
Jessica Pino
Help Me to Help You Counseling LLC.
Alexis Hutson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dover, FL 33527 (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? Often, 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 therapy journey 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? Often, 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 therapy journey may be uncomfortable at times, but it is not unbearable, so long as you have the proper clinician by your side!
Alisha Gamble
Counselor, MA, LMHC-QS
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32207 (Online Only)
I work exclusively w/ women & LGBTQIA+ members experiencing concerns such as depression, anxiety, trauma, BPD, attachment & abandonment wounds, & emotional dysregulation.
Hello, I'm Ally, & I believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. Unlike traditional therapy, where it might feel like a one-sided conversation, I assure you that I'm as real as it gets! I value the power of connection and seek to experience our journey together as real people. I work hand in hand with you to identify your desires & empower you to make positive changes in your life. Taking the first step towards seeking help can be challenging, so I use an approach that is compassionate, direct, & non-judgmental.
I work exclusively w/ women & LGBTQIA+ members experiencing concerns such as depression, anxiety, trauma, BPD, attachment & abandonment wounds, & emotional dysregulation.
Hello, I'm Ally, & I believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. Unlike traditional therapy, where it might feel like a one-sided conversation, I assure you that I'm as real as it gets! I value the power of connection and seek to experience our journey together as real people. I work hand in hand with you to identify your desires & empower you to make positive changes in your life. Taking the first step towards seeking help can be challenging, so I use an approach that is compassionate, direct, & non-judgmental.
Rachel Araujo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33433
I have also worked extensively with individuals experiencing Borderline Personality Disorder and other personality disorder diagnosis.
I'm proud to offer my clients Dialectical Behavioral (DBT) therapy, a scientific approach to transformative skills and principles. If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, personality disorder symptoms, chronic stress or loneliness it is helpful to have a compassionate therapist in your corner. This is where I enter the picture. I work with you to heal painful emotions, solve problems strategically, strengthen your connections and create a meaningful life. Whatever your struggles may be, let’s face them together.
I have also worked extensively with individuals experiencing Borderline Personality Disorder and other personality disorder diagnosis.
I'm proud to offer my clients Dialectical Behavioral (DBT) therapy, a scientific approach to transformative skills and principles. If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, personality disorder symptoms, chronic stress or loneliness it is helpful to have a compassionate therapist in your corner. This is where I enter the picture. I work with you to heal painful emotions, solve problems strategically, strengthen your connections and create a meaningful life. Whatever your struggles may be, let’s face them together.
Sometimes, when our emotions feel out of our control, we do things that don’t reflect our values. My goal is to assist you as you work to engage in life more authentically using effective nervous system regulation and increasing skillfulness. I believe that people are always doing the best that they can with the resources that they have, and they also want and need to deal with the hardships of life more effectively - that's where I step in to support, accept, educate, and guide. Some of my areas of specialization include: Addiction, Anxiety, BPD, Depression, Identity Exploration, Trauma Recovery, & Relationships and Communication.
Sometimes, when our emotions feel out of our control, we do things that don’t reflect our values. My goal is to assist you as you work to engage in life more authentically using effective nervous system regulation and increasing skillfulness. I believe that people are always doing the best that they can with the resources that they have, and they also want and need to deal with the hardships of life more effectively - that's where I step in to support, accept, educate, and guide. Some of my areas of specialization include: Addiction, Anxiety, BPD, Depression, Identity Exploration, Trauma Recovery, & Relationships and Communication.
"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.
I have undergone advanced training in Transference Focused Psychotherapy, which research has shown to have significant long-term benefits for those suffering from personality disorders, especially narcissistic and borderline types.
I offer video or in-person sessions. Trained at Princeton, University of Miami, and University of Texas--in practice over 30 years. Board certified in clinical psychology by the American Board of Professional Psychology--a credential obtained by only 5% of all psychologists in the nation. I was President (for 2020) of the Florida Psychological Association, and past Training Director at Citrus Health Network mental health center. I'm trained to treat borderline and narcissistic personality disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, relationship conflicts, school/work underachievement, autism/Asperger's disorders, and ADHD.
I have undergone advanced training in Transference Focused Psychotherapy, which research has shown to have significant long-term benefits for those suffering from personality disorders, especially narcissistic and borderline types.
I offer video or in-person sessions. Trained at Princeton, University of Miami, and University of Texas--in practice over 30 years. Board certified in clinical psychology by the American Board of Professional Psychology--a credential obtained by only 5% of all psychologists in the nation. I was President (for 2020) of the Florida Psychological Association, and past Training Director at Citrus Health Network mental health center. I'm trained to treat borderline and narcissistic personality disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, relationship conflicts, school/work underachievement, autism/Asperger's disorders, and ADHD.
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.
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.
Michael Joseph Zalewa
Counselor, LMHC, MAC, SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
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
See more therapy options for Florida
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.