Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in Duluth, GA
![Photo of Elaine Latimer-Tandy, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b29e49d7-3424-4993-8c8f-06a5e4ca0e83/2/320x400.jpeg)
Elaine Latimer-Tandy
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Duluth, GA 30096 (Online Only)
I have been working in private practice for 7 years specializing in PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder, anxiety disorders and grief/loss.
Our experiences in life will direct how we move forward in our day to day journeys. At times that journey can be filled with obstacles and challenges that you may need help navigating. Life doesn’t stop coming at you and having the skills to lay your path towards the future you desire is essential. As a licensed professional counselor, I implement a collaborative and holistic approach with clients to establish goals that are realistic and achievable. I have over 15 years experience in the mental health field providing inpatient, outpatient, crisis counseling and residential counseling services to adults, couples and adolescents.
I have been working in private practice for 7 years specializing in PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder, anxiety disorders and grief/loss.
Our experiences in life will direct how we move forward in our day to day journeys. At times that journey can be filled with obstacles and challenges that you may need help navigating. Life doesn’t stop coming at you and having the skills to lay your path towards the future you desire is essential. As a licensed professional counselor, I implement a collaborative and holistic approach with clients to establish goals that are realistic and achievable. I have over 15 years experience in the mental health field providing inpatient, outpatient, crisis counseling and residential counseling services to adults, couples and adolescents.
![Photo of Brian Long, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0d0fe587-ad7e-45c6-b9d4-e2b2c97b0d66/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have worked with many individuals, families and couples addressing issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, , narcissism and borderline traits, PTSD, suicidal ideations, domestic violence, anger management, autism spectrum, impulse control, abuse and neglect, oppositional and defiant behaviors, alcohol and drug addiction, career burn out.
Greetings! Thank you for taking the time to review my Bio. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Georgia and an approved Tele-Mental Health provider in Florida. I have been providing counseling for 18-years, and have worked in the field of mental health and substance use for 21-years. My approach is Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which includes developing a treatment plan to determine how your thoughts, feelings and behaviors may be affecting your overall emotional, psychological and physical well-being. I have experience working with children, adolescents and adults in many different capacities.
I have worked with many individuals, families and couples addressing issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, , narcissism and borderline traits, PTSD, suicidal ideations, domestic violence, anger management, autism spectrum, impulse control, abuse and neglect, oppositional and defiant behaviors, alcohol and drug addiction, career burn out.
Greetings! Thank you for taking the time to review my Bio. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Georgia and an approved Tele-Mental Health provider in Florida. I have been providing counseling for 18-years, and have worked in the field of mental health and substance use for 21-years. My approach is Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which includes developing a treatment plan to determine how your thoughts, feelings and behaviors may be affecting your overall emotional, psychological and physical well-being. I have experience working with children, adolescents and adults in many different capacities.
![Photo of Daine Barlow, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6b71b2a0-2750-4616-9b6e-ba53faaa44da/1/320x400.png)
I have worked for the Veterans Affairs as a community provider helping veteran navigate life after active duty and transition to civilian life and PTSD, in addition to community mental health and telehealth for woman, men and adolescents to address those experiencing difficulties with ADHD, anxiety, depression, Bipolar, Borderline Personality Disorder.
Life is full of surprises, sometimes not all good that can impact our well-being. Together we can help manage these surprises that life has thrown at you through guidance and tools to cope with the inevitable and to make better decisions to grow and live a fulfilling lifestyle. In 2018, I graduated from Walden University with a Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I also have a Master's Degree in Forensic Psychology. Now as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), I have been working in private practice for the last 3 years.
I have worked for the Veterans Affairs as a community provider helping veteran navigate life after active duty and transition to civilian life and PTSD, in addition to community mental health and telehealth for woman, men and adolescents to address those experiencing difficulties with ADHD, anxiety, depression, Bipolar, Borderline Personality Disorder.
Life is full of surprises, sometimes not all good that can impact our well-being. Together we can help manage these surprises that life has thrown at you through guidance and tools to cope with the inevitable and to make better decisions to grow and live a fulfilling lifestyle. In 2018, I graduated from Walden University with a Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I also have a Master's Degree in Forensic Psychology. Now as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), I have been working in private practice for the last 3 years.
![Photo of Alan Behrman - Alan Behrman & Associates, PC, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b2c1b28-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Our expertise lies in the areas of anxiety disorders, parenting issues, teens/adolescents, eating disorders, alcohol/drug abuse/use, couples counseling, family counseling, divorce counseling, life coaching and general life issues, sport psychology, Borderline Personality Disorder, and psychological testing.
While active listening is an important skill for a therapist, listening can only go so far. All of the therapists here believe that what sets us apart from many other therapists is the fact we actually help you help yourself make the necessary changes in your life by giving you techniques, tools, skills, and guidance to achieve your goals. You'll almost always walk out of a session with a new technique or two that you can go home and start using immediately. All eight of our therapists are highly trained, personable, and ready to give you the stills and techniques you need.
Our expertise lies in the areas of anxiety disorders, parenting issues, teens/adolescents, eating disorders, alcohol/drug abuse/use, couples counseling, family counseling, divorce counseling, life coaching and general life issues, sport psychology, Borderline Personality Disorder, and psychological testing.
While active listening is an important skill for a therapist, listening can only go so far. All of the therapists here believe that what sets us apart from many other therapists is the fact we actually help you help yourself make the necessary changes in your life by giving you techniques, tools, skills, and guidance to achieve your goals. You'll almost always walk out of a session with a new technique or two that you can go home and start using immediately. All eight of our therapists are highly trained, personable, and ready to give you the stills and techniques you need.
![Photo of Magan M. Slack, MS, LPC, MAC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/420fdb64-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sometimes life is difficult and you feel like there's no solution to your problems. Sometimes you feel trapped by your feelings of sadness and hopelessness and you don't see a way out. Well, there is a way out and that way out is therapy. As a therapist, I believe in the healing properties of a therapeutic relationship. By processing your thoughts, feelings and behaviors without judgment and with unconditional positive regard, I will help you discover the strength that you have to accomplish any goal.
Sometimes life is difficult and you feel like there's no solution to your problems. Sometimes you feel trapped by your feelings of sadness and hopelessness and you don't see a way out. Well, there is a way out and that way out is therapy. As a therapist, I believe in the healing properties of a therapeutic relationship. By processing your thoughts, feelings and behaviors without judgment and with unconditional positive regard, I will help you discover the strength that you have to accomplish any goal.
![Photo of Reva Manon Kraus - Northeast Georgia Counseling, LCSW, MSSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b5aecb88-c2f1-40ea-bea3-ff67bd5c4981/1/320x400.png)
Northeast Georgia Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Duluth, GA 30026
My clients deal with a wide range of issues: emotions that often feel intense and out of control, suicidal behaviors, anxiety, depression, trauma and self harming behaviors. For this I use DBT and mindfulness to help them stabilize, make new choices and have a life they feel is worth living. I also work with seniors dealing with aging issues, depression, anxiety, and the grief of losing friends to death. Along with that, I work with grief and caregiver burn out. I use CBT reframing, mindfulness and EFT principles to support and assist. I have a wide range of experience with helping clients dealing with chronic illness and death.
My clients deal with a wide range of issues: emotions that often feel intense and out of control, suicidal behaviors, anxiety, depression, trauma and self harming behaviors. For this I use DBT and mindfulness to help them stabilize, make new choices and have a life they feel is worth living. I also work with seniors dealing with aging issues, depression, anxiety, and the grief of losing friends to death. Along with that, I work with grief and caregiver burn out. I use CBT reframing, mindfulness and EFT principles to support and assist. I have a wide range of experience with helping clients dealing with chronic illness and death.
![Photo of Kristy Ajax, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/abe29f3f-92d4-498e-91fe-725097ba29b0/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed professional therapist working in the areas of trauma, recovery, relationships, and grief. Within my practice I incorporate the following therapeutic orientations; Person Centered Therapy, and Psycho-dynamic. This integrative approach will allow your core beliefs, behaviors, and emotions guide your treatment and goals for wellness. If you are willing to engage in acceptance, self love, and healing I am ready to help you on your journey.
I am a licensed professional therapist working in the areas of trauma, recovery, relationships, and grief. Within my practice I incorporate the following therapeutic orientations; Person Centered Therapy, and Psycho-dynamic. This integrative approach will allow your core beliefs, behaviors, and emotions guide your treatment and goals for wellness. If you are willing to engage in acceptance, self love, and healing I am ready to help you on your journey.
![Photo of Yasmeen Baajour, MS, APC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/764da45d-a2b8-4a81-8561-186bc826999a/2/320x400.jpeg)
It can be easy to feel lost and out of control. Sometimes, your go-to coping skills and self-care strategies do not seem to be doing the trick. It is imperative that you feel confident in what you have to offer and strong enough to manage adverse situations and emotions that you experience.
It can be easy to feel lost and out of control. Sometimes, your go-to coping skills and self-care strategies do not seem to be doing the trick. It is imperative that you feel confident in what you have to offer and strong enough to manage adverse situations and emotions that you experience.
![Photo of Angela Romero-Shih, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2f36038e-ef89-48d9-bdf7-4b8b5f42fc7a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Angela Romero-Shih
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Duluth, GA 30096 (Online Only)
I support individuals and couples in their journey toward emotional well-being and personal growth. I understand that seeking therapy can be a significant step, and you might be looking for someone who not only understands your unique challenges but also offers practical solutions and compassionate support. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, daily functioning, or relationship issues, or you’re facing the complexities of trauma or addiction, my goal is to provide you with a safe and supportive environment where you can openly address these concerns.
I support individuals and couples in their journey toward emotional well-being and personal growth. I understand that seeking therapy can be a significant step, and you might be looking for someone who not only understands your unique challenges but also offers practical solutions and compassionate support. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, daily functioning, or relationship issues, or you’re facing the complexities of trauma or addiction, my goal is to provide you with a safe and supportive environment where you can openly address these concerns.
![Photo of Theresa J Holt - Helping Other Live Together Inc., EdD, LPC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4869d68f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Helping Other Live Together Inc.
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Duluth, GA 30096
With over 20 years experience as a therapist, and as a graduate of Argosy University Sarasota, Florida. Dr. Holt specializes in Reality Therapy. She is currently serving as private practitioner working with a broad spectrum of clients. Areas of expertise include but are not limited to children and adolescents, couples, anxiety and trauma. Dr. Holt is an interactive, solution-focused therapist. Her therapeutic approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges. Dr. Holt integrates complementary methodologies and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each client.
With over 20 years experience as a therapist, and as a graduate of Argosy University Sarasota, Florida. Dr. Holt specializes in Reality Therapy. She is currently serving as private practitioner working with a broad spectrum of clients. Areas of expertise include but are not limited to children and adolescents, couples, anxiety and trauma. Dr. Holt is an interactive, solution-focused therapist. Her therapeutic approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges. Dr. Holt integrates complementary methodologies and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each client.
![Photo of Kemesha Nickelson - Kemesha's Therapy Space, LPC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/296fa6f0-dce5-455e-a446-8f68d38a1bbf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kemesha's Therapy Space
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Duluth, GA 30096 (Online Only)
Welcome to Kemesha's Therapy Space! If you're a young adult grappling with life’s transitions, a family tangled in conflict, a couple seeking to reconnect, or a preteen or teen navigating the stormy seas of adolescence, you’ve come to the right place. I specialize in helping with anxiety, depression, family conflicts, and trauma. Together, we’ll tackle these challenges and work towards a future where you feel understood, empowered, and hopeful. Let’s start this path to healing and growth—your better days are ahead!
Welcome to Kemesha's Therapy Space! If you're a young adult grappling with life’s transitions, a family tangled in conflict, a couple seeking to reconnect, or a preteen or teen navigating the stormy seas of adolescence, you’ve come to the right place. I specialize in helping with anxiety, depression, family conflicts, and trauma. Together, we’ll tackle these challenges and work towards a future where you feel understood, empowered, and hopeful. Let’s start this path to healing and growth—your better days are ahead!
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![Photo of Wayne Hulon, MDiv, LPC, AAPB, ABCP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c33c455-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Wayne Hulon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, LPC, AAPB, ABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Duluth, GA 30097
I've had a diverse background in business, professional sports, corporate training, management consulting, the chaplaincy, bariatrics, pain management, addiction, psychophysiology, behavioral medicine, neurofeedback and photobiomodulation. Harville Hendrix of "Getting the Love You Want" was my supervisor for 8 years. Hence, I truly enjoy a wide range of issues and personalities. I'm compassionate but direct in my style and often described as "Dr. Phil, with a heart". No therapist has your answers, but if we ask the right questions, in the context of genuine care, safety, and respect, you will discover your truth and find your way.
I've had a diverse background in business, professional sports, corporate training, management consulting, the chaplaincy, bariatrics, pain management, addiction, psychophysiology, behavioral medicine, neurofeedback and photobiomodulation. Harville Hendrix of "Getting the Love You Want" was my supervisor for 8 years. Hence, I truly enjoy a wide range of issues and personalities. I'm compassionate but direct in my style and often described as "Dr. Phil, with a heart". No therapist has your answers, but if we ask the right questions, in the context of genuine care, safety, and respect, you will discover your truth and find your way.
![Photo of Tajana Freeman, APC, MEd, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dce1253f-1159-42aa-8d11-9cb07ee88187/1/320x400.png)
Whether you are working on your own personal growth or working to support your loved ones, I am committed to assisting and facilitating therapy with you every step of the way. Choosing therapy is an act of bravery. Whether you are seeking therapy to work through past traumas, find insight and clarity, improve your relationships, or enhance your overall well-being, I am here to collaborate with you in creating a personalized therapeutic plan that meets your unique needs and goals.
Whether you are working on your own personal growth or working to support your loved ones, I am committed to assisting and facilitating therapy with you every step of the way. Choosing therapy is an act of bravery. Whether you are seeking therapy to work through past traumas, find insight and clarity, improve your relationships, or enhance your overall well-being, I am here to collaborate with you in creating a personalized therapeutic plan that meets your unique needs and goals.
![Photo of Kelsey Sander, LCSW, CEDS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d6fd18ed-6ac3-42b7-b3ac-df8c7c9f735b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kelsey Sander
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEDS
Verified Verified
Duluth, GA 30096
Waitlist for new clients
Manna Treatment specializes in the treatment of eating disorders, trauma-based disorders, and general mental health. My goal as a primary therapist at Manna is to provide clients and their families a safe space to heal from their underlying hurts and pains and become leaders of their own journey again. Manna offers outpatient therapy, including individual and family, as well as partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient for eating disorders and intensive outpatient for trauma recovery. I also provide the option for clients to utilize faith-based principles in their work with me, if desired.
Manna Treatment specializes in the treatment of eating disorders, trauma-based disorders, and general mental health. My goal as a primary therapist at Manna is to provide clients and their families a safe space to heal from their underlying hurts and pains and become leaders of their own journey again. Manna offers outpatient therapy, including individual and family, as well as partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient for eating disorders and intensive outpatient for trauma recovery. I also provide the option for clients to utilize faith-based principles in their work with me, if desired.
![Photo of Nona Giddens, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cc6f05e8-a140-48ef-94a6-d52e1d1e21b1/2/320x400.jpeg)
At Alan Behrman & Associates, PC we believe in no criticism, no judgement, and no condemnation. I consider it a privilege and honor to join you on your journey to healing, wellness and wholeness. I have several years of experience with serving children, teens, and adults in providing individual, family, couples and group counseling. Through therapeutic excellence and compassionate care, I am dedicated to helping you achieve your life goals of mental and emotional health so that you can be the person you envision and aspire to be.
At Alan Behrman & Associates, PC we believe in no criticism, no judgement, and no condemnation. I consider it a privilege and honor to join you on your journey to healing, wellness and wholeness. I have several years of experience with serving children, teens, and adults in providing individual, family, couples and group counseling. Through therapeutic excellence and compassionate care, I am dedicated to helping you achieve your life goals of mental and emotional health so that you can be the person you envision and aspire to be.
![Photo of Davida Vaughn, MS, EdS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2f1d77cf-5792-4958-9cd0-b546266904c4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Davida Vaughn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Duluth, GA 30095 (Online Only)
Life gets hard. Period. Every person has a unique sort of hard, but it's hard all the same. For some of us, it's a single event that changes the trajectory of our lives. For others of us, it's a series of traumatic experiences, decisions, disappointments, or relationship betrayals that result in emotional distress. A sense that life just isn't what it was (and perhaps never will be again) develops and suddenly, "hard" feels BIGGER. Maybe you're struggling with debilitating anxiety, relationship issues, spirituality concerns, or that thick and lingering cloud of depression. Whatever your hard is, you aren't alone.
Life gets hard. Period. Every person has a unique sort of hard, but it's hard all the same. For some of us, it's a single event that changes the trajectory of our lives. For others of us, it's a series of traumatic experiences, decisions, disappointments, or relationship betrayals that result in emotional distress. A sense that life just isn't what it was (and perhaps never will be again) develops and suddenly, "hard" feels BIGGER. Maybe you're struggling with debilitating anxiety, relationship issues, spirituality concerns, or that thick and lingering cloud of depression. Whatever your hard is, you aren't alone.
![Photo of Misoon Lee, MA, LPC, NCC, RN, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d40c0fe-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I provide counseling services in an atmosphere of welcoming all people who are seeking help for emotional and spiritual support. It is voluntary and confidential. I provide a wide range of counseling services for individual, couples, adolescents, and adults. I utilize several therapeutic theories to fit each individual's personal growth, which he or she is striving toward. I mainly exercise CBT & DBT for treating anxiety, depression, and adjustment issues.
I provide counseling services in an atmosphere of welcoming all people who are seeking help for emotional and spiritual support. It is voluntary and confidential. I provide a wide range of counseling services for individual, couples, adolescents, and adults. I utilize several therapeutic theories to fit each individual's personal growth, which he or she is striving toward. I mainly exercise CBT & DBT for treating anxiety, depression, and adjustment issues.
![Photo of Sara Boucchechter - Angel Lopez Clinic, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dbceec9a-daf1-4696-b90f-23273e3bc400/3/320x400.jpeg)
Led by licensed clinical psychologist Dr. Sara Boucchechter, the Angel Lopez Clinic offers psychological services and evaluations in multiple languages. Our professional team has experience working directly with individuals and families as well as attorneys, educators and case workers to address the mental health and forensic evaluation needs of the metro Atlanta community.
Led by licensed clinical psychologist Dr. Sara Boucchechter, the Angel Lopez Clinic offers psychological services and evaluations in multiple languages. Our professional team has experience working directly with individuals and families as well as attorneys, educators and case workers to address the mental health and forensic evaluation needs of the metro Atlanta community.
![Photo of Janon Wilson, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fa58376b-61d6-4088-b959-938cd177c5cd/1/320x400.jpeg)
If you are reading this, you have already taken the hardest step toward feeling better- reaching out for help. As a therapist I understand that it is important for you to feel understood, heard and supported. When we all are working as a team, those things will be automatic. My approach is direct yet very compassionate. My goal is for us together to identify the cause of your issues, to develop what is needed and how it can be achieved. I would like to get you unstuck and on the path to happiness. My goal is to help you find relief from emotional distress. Over the past 20 years, I have had extensive training in EFT, CBT, DBT , TF-C
If you are reading this, you have already taken the hardest step toward feeling better- reaching out for help. As a therapist I understand that it is important for you to feel understood, heard and supported. When we all are working as a team, those things will be automatic. My approach is direct yet very compassionate. My goal is for us together to identify the cause of your issues, to develop what is needed and how it can be achieved. I would like to get you unstuck and on the path to happiness. My goal is to help you find relief from emotional distress. Over the past 20 years, I have had extensive training in EFT, CBT, DBT , TF-C
![Photo of Courtney Chaney, MS, NCC, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1258ee97-1088-433c-bf04-21d8232cc5a7/2/320x400.jpeg)
It's hard to admit to yourself the life you are living just doesn't seem like enough anymore. Waking up, you stare into the mirror, and can't help but judge the person looking back. You're realizing that you don't understand yourself, causing the uncertainty of life to settle in. The pain, fear, and struggles from the past have stopped you from living a fully authentic life. You know you're slowly losing the true sense of the person you were meant to be. Life keeps passing by, time keeps ticking and you are stuck on this roller coaster just trying to get off.
It's hard to admit to yourself the life you are living just doesn't seem like enough anymore. Waking up, you stare into the mirror, and can't help but judge the person looking back. You're realizing that you don't understand yourself, causing the uncertainty of life to settle in. The pain, fear, and struggles from the past have stopped you from living a fully authentic life. You know you're slowly losing the true sense of the person you were meant to be. Life keeps passing by, time keeps ticking and you are stuck on this roller coaster just trying to get off.
See more therapy options for Duluth
Nearby Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists Searches for Duluth
- Alpharetta
- Dunwoody
- Johns Creek
- Lawrenceville
- Lilburn
- Milton
- Norcross
- Peachtree Corners
- Roswell
- Sugar Hill
- Suwanee
- Tucker
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.