Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in Massachusetts
My areas of strength include the treatment of depression, self-harm, and borderline personality disorder.
As a former conference planner with a bachelor's degree in both biology and German studies, I believe that the direct path is not always the most transformational. I've worked as a high school counselor and as community outreach therapist, conducting sessions in elementary, middle, and high schools in the Greater Lowell area. While I enjoy working with a wide variety of clients, I've worked most frequently with children, adolescents, and young adults, as well as members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
My areas of strength include the treatment of depression, self-harm, and borderline personality disorder.
As a former conference planner with a bachelor's degree in both biology and German studies, I believe that the direct path is not always the most transformational. I've worked as a high school counselor and as community outreach therapist, conducting sessions in elementary, middle, and high schools in the Greater Lowell area. While I enjoy working with a wide variety of clients, I've worked most frequently with children, adolescents, and young adults, as well as members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Lisa Burke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Concord, MA 01742
Waitlist for new clients
***My caseload is currently full, please contact me to be added to my waitlist.*** I left my job as a Program Director, at McLean Hospital to bring my clinical knowledge and training to the suburbs. I work with children, adolescents and young adults, who struggle with depression, anxiety, difficulties regulating emotions, self-harm, suicidal ideation and borderline personality disorder (BPD). I also have experience treating those with mild intellectual disability, Autism and behavioral disorders. I'm certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Interventions from Boston University and I am trained in DBT, from Behavioral Tech, LLC
***My caseload is currently full, please contact me to be added to my waitlist.*** I left my job as a Program Director, at McLean Hospital to bring my clinical knowledge and training to the suburbs. I work with children, adolescents and young adults, who struggle with depression, anxiety, difficulties regulating emotions, self-harm, suicidal ideation and borderline personality disorder (BPD). I also have experience treating those with mild intellectual disability, Autism and behavioral disorders. I'm certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Interventions from Boston University and I am trained in DBT, from Behavioral Tech, LLC
Samantha Street
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02108 (Online Only)
Has the battle with self-harm, addiction, eating disorders, relationship issues, or even low self-esteem left you feeling like you are “stuck” in this cycle? Maybe you were diagnosed with PTSD or BPD and you feel like these symptoms control how you live YOUR life? If you’re looking to experience lasting relief and be the one living your life, now might be the time to connect with a therapist who can help. You are not the problem. How the symptoms have expressed themselves in your daily life is the problem and you want a lasting solution. Let us work together to create a plan that offers hope that relief is possible.
Has the battle with self-harm, addiction, eating disorders, relationship issues, or even low self-esteem left you feeling like you are “stuck” in this cycle? Maybe you were diagnosed with PTSD or BPD and you feel like these symptoms control how you live YOUR life? If you’re looking to experience lasting relief and be the one living your life, now might be the time to connect with a therapist who can help. You are not the problem. How the symptoms have expressed themselves in your daily life is the problem and you want a lasting solution. Let us work together to create a plan that offers hope that relief is possible.
I specialize in DBT, a treatment for Borderline Personality Disorder and related problems with emotion regulation.
I work with adults (18+) who have difficulty managing their emotions and who struggle with depression, anxiety, interpersonal problems, and problems functioning at work or school. I provide evidence-based treatments including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help my clients change ineffective behavioral patterns, develop more helpful ways of thinking, and accept difficult realities to build the lives they want. I also see clients with Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders through all stages of the pregnancy and parenthood process.
I specialize in DBT, a treatment for Borderline Personality Disorder and related problems with emotion regulation.
I work with adults (18+) who have difficulty managing their emotions and who struggle with depression, anxiety, interpersonal problems, and problems functioning at work or school. I provide evidence-based treatments including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help my clients change ineffective behavioral patterns, develop more helpful ways of thinking, and accept difficult realities to build the lives they want. I also see clients with Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders through all stages of the pregnancy and parenthood process.
Stephanie Vaughn
Psychologist, PsyD, DBT-LBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02110 (Online Only)
I'm a DBT-Linehan Board Certified Clinician and an expert in Borderline Personality Disorder, anxiety disorders, PTSD, self-harm, and oppositional adolescents.
My clients don't come to therapy to hear someone nod and agree with everything they say—that's not worth their time or money. They want real help. They want to know "what to do" and "how to fix it" because they're struggling with depression, severe anxiety, relationship problems, trauma, suicidal thoughts, parenting issues, and other painful situations. They are looking for a true expert that they can actually talk to. I am a member of PSYPACT which means I can see clients in every state that is a member of PSYPACT and I am also licensed in MA.
I'm a DBT-Linehan Board Certified Clinician and an expert in Borderline Personality Disorder, anxiety disorders, PTSD, self-harm, and oppositional adolescents.
My clients don't come to therapy to hear someone nod and agree with everything they say—that's not worth their time or money. They want real help. They want to know "what to do" and "how to fix it" because they're struggling with depression, severe anxiety, relationship problems, trauma, suicidal thoughts, parenting issues, and other painful situations. They are looking for a true expert that they can actually talk to. I am a member of PSYPACT which means I can see clients in every state that is a member of PSYPACT and I am also licensed in MA.
I am a licensed behavioral psychologist with over 20 years of experience specializing in the treatment of anxiety, depression, eating disorders, impulsivity, and Borderline Personality Disorder. I have advanced training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Through a relational approach that is both eclectic and skill based, a key goal of our therapy will be to provide symptom relief and improved quality of life.
I am a licensed behavioral psychologist with over 20 years of experience specializing in the treatment of anxiety, depression, eating disorders, impulsivity, and Borderline Personality Disorder. I have advanced training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Through a relational approach that is both eclectic and skill based, a key goal of our therapy will be to provide symptom relief and improved quality of life.
Trauma Psychotherapy - Dr. Adam Henderson
MD
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02459
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! I'm a board-certified psychiatrist offering psychotherapy and thoughtful medication management. I'm on faculty at Harvard Medical School and work as a staff psychiatrist at McLean hospital, in addition to my time in my confidential private practice. I'm specialized in trauma recovery, addiction counseling, and BPD treatment. I also help with depression, anxiety, and ADHD. I work with clients new to therapy as well as clients who have tried numerous therapies and/or medications and haven't gotten the results they wanted. I listen and work collaboratively with you.
Welcome! I'm a board-certified psychiatrist offering psychotherapy and thoughtful medication management. I'm on faculty at Harvard Medical School and work as a staff psychiatrist at McLean hospital, in addition to my time in my confidential private practice. I'm specialized in trauma recovery, addiction counseling, and BPD treatment. I also help with depression, anxiety, and ADHD. I work with clients new to therapy as well as clients who have tried numerous therapies and/or medications and haven't gotten the results they wanted. I listen and work collaboratively with you.
Accepting new patients. I trained and hold faculty appointments at McLean Hospital and Harvard Medical School. I am passionate about my work with clients. I enjoy helping others make meaningful changes that make their lives more satisfying and less overwhelming. I specialize and have extensive experience in the treatment of OCD, and anxiety disorders (panic disorder, social anxiety, and PTSD), as well as borderline personality disorder. I use dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) skills. My therapy method is supportive, skills-focused and goal-oriented.
Accepting new patients. I trained and hold faculty appointments at McLean Hospital and Harvard Medical School. I am passionate about my work with clients. I enjoy helping others make meaningful changes that make their lives more satisfying and less overwhelming. I specialize and have extensive experience in the treatment of OCD, and anxiety disorders (panic disorder, social anxiety, and PTSD), as well as borderline personality disorder. I use dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) skills. My therapy method is supportive, skills-focused and goal-oriented.
Kelley M Guilfoil-Zinkevich, LICSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01602
My areas of practice include: anxiety, depression, trauma (PTSD, CPTSD, DV, SA), BPD, bipolar d/o and schizophrenia.
I am a licensed social worker with over 25 years in the mental health field. In 2021, I started my private practice recognizing the need we all have to connect in a space where we can feel safe and heard. I work with children, teens and adults who are seeking to understand patterns that are holding them back from living life fully. Treatment modalities are individualized and integrative-we will work collaboratively on finding your best fit.
My areas of practice include: anxiety, depression, trauma (PTSD, CPTSD, DV, SA), BPD, bipolar d/o and schizophrenia.
I am a licensed social worker with over 25 years in the mental health field. In 2021, I started my private practice recognizing the need we all have to connect in a space where we can feel safe and heard. I work with children, teens and adults who are seeking to understand patterns that are holding them back from living life fully. Treatment modalities are individualized and integrative-we will work collaboratively on finding your best fit.
I have over 15 years of experience working with individuals and/or loved ones of individuals struggling with issues including, but not limited to: depression, anxiety, adjustments, bereavement, eating disorders, family/marital conflict, psychotic disorders, and behavioral issues. I have worked in various settings such as: psychiatric hospitals, group homes, day treatment programs, and outpatient counseling offices. My specialty lies within the adolescent (16yo+) & young adult populations, as well as the Eating Disorder, chronic mental health, and Borderline Personality populations.
I have over 15 years of experience working with individuals and/or loved ones of individuals struggling with issues including, but not limited to: depression, anxiety, adjustments, bereavement, eating disorders, family/marital conflict, psychotic disorders, and behavioral issues. I have worked in various settings such as: psychiatric hospitals, group homes, day treatment programs, and outpatient counseling offices. My specialty lies within the adolescent (16yo+) & young adult populations, as well as the Eating Disorder, chronic mental health, and Borderline Personality populations.
Julie Nicole Saperstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Barnstable, MA 02648
I provide psychotherapy to individuals, couples, families and groups. I specialize in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), but my approach is varied and client driven. I customize a combination of a deep exploration of the past with a pragmatic skills-based way to move forward. My clients receive therapy that feels authentic, safe, warm and conducive to profound growth. I treat a wide range of issues and disorders including ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Addiction, Bipolar Disorder and Borderline Personality Disorder. I also specialize in couples work, including post infidelity reconciliation. I also do Ketamine Assisted Therapy
I provide psychotherapy to individuals, couples, families and groups. I specialize in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), but my approach is varied and client driven. I customize a combination of a deep exploration of the past with a pragmatic skills-based way to move forward. My clients receive therapy that feels authentic, safe, warm and conducive to profound growth. I treat a wide range of issues and disorders including ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Addiction, Bipolar Disorder and Borderline Personality Disorder. I also specialize in couples work, including post infidelity reconciliation. I also do Ketamine Assisted Therapy
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Stephanie Hathcock Vaughn
Psychologist, PsyD, DBT-LBC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02110 (Online Only)
I specialize in relationship issues, life transitions such as grief and divorce, Borderline Personality Disorder, oppositional kids, Trauma/PTSD, panic disorder, factitious disorder, and OCD.
As a CBT and DBT Psychologist, National Speaker, hospital consultant, and clinical supervisor for Vanderbilt University, I have successfully helped veterans, teens, psychologists, physicians, attorneys, students, celebrities, and homemakers feel better and improve their lives. My business, PSYCHē, PLLC is founded upon the belief that going the extra mile makes all the difference. People need real support and real solutions—not just a nod and concerned look. My job is to help—my clients tell me how. I am a member of PSYPACT which means I can see clients in every state that is a member of PSYPACT and I am also licensed in MA.
I specialize in relationship issues, life transitions such as grief and divorce, Borderline Personality Disorder, oppositional kids, Trauma/PTSD, panic disorder, factitious disorder, and OCD.
As a CBT and DBT Psychologist, National Speaker, hospital consultant, and clinical supervisor for Vanderbilt University, I have successfully helped veterans, teens, psychologists, physicians, attorneys, students, celebrities, and homemakers feel better and improve their lives. My business, PSYCHē, PLLC is founded upon the belief that going the extra mile makes all the difference. People need real support and real solutions—not just a nod and concerned look. My job is to help—my clients tell me how. I am a member of PSYPACT which means I can see clients in every state that is a member of PSYPACT and I am also licensed in MA.
Laura B DeAngelo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AB, MBA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02101 (Online Only)
I am trained in Dialetical Behavior Therapy (DBT), an evidence-based method to help symptoms of borderline personality disorder.
Are you facing challenges coping with life stressors or relationships? Do you need help learning to manage your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors in order to lead a productive and happy life? Are you a parent trying your best to parent a challenging child but still feel stuck? I offer compassionate, collaborative, results-oriented therapy and training for individuals and families who would like to improve the quality of life for themselves and/or their children. I use a warm and nonjudgmental approach to help you feel safe and comfortable. I want you to leave each session feeling hopeful, insightful, and empowered.
I am trained in Dialetical Behavior Therapy (DBT), an evidence-based method to help symptoms of borderline personality disorder.
Are you facing challenges coping with life stressors or relationships? Do you need help learning to manage your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors in order to lead a productive and happy life? Are you a parent trying your best to parent a challenging child but still feel stuck? I offer compassionate, collaborative, results-oriented therapy and training for individuals and families who would like to improve the quality of life for themselves and/or their children. I use a warm and nonjudgmental approach to help you feel safe and comfortable. I want you to leave each session feeling hopeful, insightful, and empowered.
Keresse Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW , LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02111 (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.
Becky Lynne Bernat
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CEDS-S
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02445
I have focused my professional career on learning techniques, skills, tools and interventions to enable all my clients to feel more effective and strong at managing challenging emotions, interpersonal situations and life's daily ups and downs. I am an expert in Eating Disorders, Borderline Personality Disorder, anxiety, trauma, gender dysphoria, and self-injury. Helping my clients achieve their goals of mental health wellness along with feeling capable and successful in their lives by using therapies such as DBT, CBT and CPT (Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD) are the cornerstone of the therapies I use and value.
I have focused my professional career on learning techniques, skills, tools and interventions to enable all my clients to feel more effective and strong at managing challenging emotions, interpersonal situations and life's daily ups and downs. I am an expert in Eating Disorders, Borderline Personality Disorder, anxiety, trauma, gender dysphoria, and self-injury. Helping my clients achieve their goals of mental health wellness along with feeling capable and successful in their lives by using therapies such as DBT, CBT and CPT (Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD) are the cornerstone of the therapies I use and value.
I have over 3 years of experience working with youths, adults, and families, specializing in individual and family therapy, addressing various challenges including depression, anxiety, BPD, suicidal ideation, changes in family dynamics, trauma, attachment, and life transitions. I draw on my knowledge of CBT, DBT, trauma-informed care, attachment theory, solution-focused therapy, motivational interviewing, and person-centered therapy to help clients reach their goals. I truly believe that everyone is capable of change and I promise to help you realize your strengths and support you as you navigate challenges big and small.
I have over 3 years of experience working with youths, adults, and families, specializing in individual and family therapy, addressing various challenges including depression, anxiety, BPD, suicidal ideation, changes in family dynamics, trauma, attachment, and life transitions. I draw on my knowledge of CBT, DBT, trauma-informed care, attachment theory, solution-focused therapy, motivational interviewing, and person-centered therapy to help clients reach their goals. I truly believe that everyone is capable of change and I promise to help you realize your strengths and support you as you navigate challenges big and small.
I have eight years of experience counseling people dealing with a variety of challenges like trauma, anxiety, self-esteem, depression, addiction, bipolar, BPD, psychosis, LGBTQ issues, and just navigating all the wild things life can throw our way.
As a therapist, my goals are to empower you to transform your life with purpose and to create a safe space for you to process the things that are difficult to sit with alone. My style is defined by openness and acceptance. I draw from person-centered and strengths-based therapies in addition to DBT, CBT, mindfulness, and art therapy. My practice is also informed by my queer identity and my lived mental health experience. I am passionate about destigmatization and cultural humility.
I have eight years of experience counseling people dealing with a variety of challenges like trauma, anxiety, self-esteem, depression, addiction, bipolar, BPD, psychosis, LGBTQ issues, and just navigating all the wild things life can throw our way.
As a therapist, my goals are to empower you to transform your life with purpose and to create a safe space for you to process the things that are difficult to sit with alone. My style is defined by openness and acceptance. I draw from person-centered and strengths-based therapies in addition to DBT, CBT, mindfulness, and art therapy. My practice is also informed by my queer identity and my lived mental health experience. I am passionate about destigmatization and cultural humility.
Karina Gruesz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02199 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
While I have experience working with a wide range of people of different ages and backgrounds, I specialize working with ADHD and neurodivergent individuals and members of the LGBTQIA+ community, as well as those experiencing challenges with substance use, borderline personality disorder, complex trauma, depression, and anxiety.
Whether you are brand new to therapy or are many years into your journey, you deserve a place free from judgement where you can deepen your self understanding, build confidence in yourself, and find solutions to the problems you are facing. My approach to therapy is collaborative and strengths-based, centering on your goals and recognizing the capacity all humans possess to grow, heal, and change. I see my role as a therapist to provide you with the tools, resources and supportive environment (with a side of humor) necessary to foster that growth and get "unstuck" when facing challenges in your life.
While I have experience working with a wide range of people of different ages and backgrounds, I specialize working with ADHD and neurodivergent individuals and members of the LGBTQIA+ community, as well as those experiencing challenges with substance use, borderline personality disorder, complex trauma, depression, and anxiety.
Whether you are brand new to therapy or are many years into your journey, you deserve a place free from judgement where you can deepen your self understanding, build confidence in yourself, and find solutions to the problems you are facing. My approach to therapy is collaborative and strengths-based, centering on your goals and recognizing the capacity all humans possess to grow, heal, and change. I see my role as a therapist to provide you with the tools, resources and supportive environment (with a side of humor) necessary to foster that growth and get "unstuck" when facing challenges in your life.
I am a psychologist at McLean Hospital and a Lecturer of Psychology at Harvard Medical School. I have worked as a staff psychologist at McLean Hospital’s Anxiety Mastery Program with children and adolescents (and their families) with anxiety disorders in an intensive outpatient setting. Additionally, I completed my postdoctoral fellowship at McLean Hospital’s 3East DBT programs. I earned my PhD at Boston University. I have expertise in treating children, adolescents, and adults with anxiety, depression, OCD, phobias, panic disorder, AR/FID, school avoidance, and borderline personality disorder.
I am a psychologist at McLean Hospital and a Lecturer of Psychology at Harvard Medical School. I have worked as a staff psychologist at McLean Hospital’s Anxiety Mastery Program with children and adolescents (and their families) with anxiety disorders in an intensive outpatient setting. Additionally, I completed my postdoctoral fellowship at McLean Hospital’s 3East DBT programs. I earned my PhD at Boston University. I have expertise in treating children, adolescents, and adults with anxiety, depression, OCD, phobias, panic disorder, AR/FID, school avoidance, and borderline personality disorder.
Dr. Alexandra L Vlahakes
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wayland, MA 01778 (Online Only)
Alexandra Vlahakes, PsyD, is a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of Massachusetts. Her specialties include helping adolescents and adults struggling with depression and anxiety, PTSD and trauma-related disorders, bipolar disorder, and people struggling with emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal issues. Dr. Vlahakes takes a particular interest in working with persons struggling with borderline personality, as well as consulting for dissociative disorders. Dr. Vlahakes also provides supervision for license-eligible practitioners as the Director of Clinical Training for Brighter Life Therapy, PLLC.
Alexandra Vlahakes, PsyD, is a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of Massachusetts. Her specialties include helping adolescents and adults struggling with depression and anxiety, PTSD and trauma-related disorders, bipolar disorder, and people struggling with emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal issues. Dr. Vlahakes takes a particular interest in working with persons struggling with borderline personality, as well as consulting for dissociative disorders. Dr. Vlahakes also provides supervision for license-eligible practitioners as the Director of Clinical Training for Brighter Life Therapy, PLLC.
See more therapy options for Massachusetts
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.