Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in Woodhaven, MI

Photo of Reyma Bazzi, LLPC, Counselor
Reyma Bazzi
Counselor, LLPC
Verified Verified
Woodhaven, MI 48183
Did you know that taking the step to look for a therapist is one of the scariest parts of seeking mental health services? You've made it so far already! Now lets get better acquainted so that I may assist you to become the best version of yourself that you can be! As a Limited Licensed Professional Counselor I incorporate empathy, psychoeducation, and empowerment into my therapeutic work. I prefer to adopt a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Person-Centered approach and believe firmly that therapy is a shared journey between the client and therapist.
Did you know that taking the step to look for a therapist is one of the scariest parts of seeking mental health services? You've made it so far already! Now lets get better acquainted so that I may assist you to become the best version of yourself that you can be! As a Limited Licensed Professional Counselor I incorporate empathy, psychoeducation, and empowerment into my therapeutic work. I prefer to adopt a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Person-Centered approach and believe firmly that therapy is a shared journey between the client and therapist.
(734) 822-5445 View (734) 822-5445
Photo of Avery L. Lewis, LLPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Avery L. Lewis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodhaven, MI 48183
Hello! My name is Avery. I am a Limited Licensed Professional Counselor who incorporates inclusivity, empathy, education, and empowerment within my therapeutic work. I work with children, adolescents, and adults experiencing a range of challenges such as depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, abuse, self-esteem issues, identity and sexuality issues, and relationship issues. Professionally, I also have experience as a technician facilitating therapeutic groups within an inpatient psychiatric setting as well as being an outpatient therapist. My motto for the clients I am privileged to work with is, "Come as you are."
Hello! My name is Avery. I am a Limited Licensed Professional Counselor who incorporates inclusivity, empathy, education, and empowerment within my therapeutic work. I work with children, adolescents, and adults experiencing a range of challenges such as depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, abuse, self-esteem issues, identity and sexuality issues, and relationship issues. Professionally, I also have experience as a technician facilitating therapeutic groups within an inpatient psychiatric setting as well as being an outpatient therapist. My motto for the clients I am privileged to work with is, "Come as you are."
(734) 359-6932 View (734) 359-6932
Photo of Hannah Francisco, MA, SCL, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hannah Francisco
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, SCL, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Woodhaven, MI 48183
Waitlist for new clients
Hi there! My name is Hannah Francisco. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed School Counselor. I currently work as a school counselor and have experience working with children, teens, adults and families from all and any background/ upbringing. Therapy is helpful in many ways. Healing is a learning process and will be set at your pace. Healing does not mean fixing but managing symptoms and eventually illuminating discomfort. My clients have the autonomy and freedom to find what that is for them. For children, play therapy can allow autonomy, independence but also confidence. I believe that working with
Hi there! My name is Hannah Francisco. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed School Counselor. I currently work as a school counselor and have experience working with children, teens, adults and families from all and any background/ upbringing. Therapy is helpful in many ways. Healing is a learning process and will be set at your pace. Healing does not mean fixing but managing symptoms and eventually illuminating discomfort. My clients have the autonomy and freedom to find what that is for them. For children, play therapy can allow autonomy, independence but also confidence. I believe that working with
(734) 876-8710 View (734) 876-8710
Photo of Narmane Daou Hamka, MA, LPC, Counselor
Narmane Daou Hamka
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodhaven, MI 48183
Mental strength is not the ability to stay out of the darkness; it's the ability to sit present in the darkness knowing that the light will shine again. As a psychotherapist, my goal is to provide clients with a safe place to feel relaxed and able to speak freely and honestly. I'm there to motivate, engage and guide them. I use cognitive behavioral therapy, client-centered, problem solving and motivational techniques. I aim to provide an empathically supportive atmosphere, where clients can feel at ease, take a deep breath and begin to look at their life's problems from a fresh, new perspective.
Mental strength is not the ability to stay out of the darkness; it's the ability to sit present in the darkness knowing that the light will shine again. As a psychotherapist, my goal is to provide clients with a safe place to feel relaxed and able to speak freely and honestly. I'm there to motivate, engage and guide them. I use cognitive behavioral therapy, client-centered, problem solving and motivational techniques. I aim to provide an empathically supportive atmosphere, where clients can feel at ease, take a deep breath and begin to look at their life's problems from a fresh, new perspective.
(313) 241-3907 View (313) 241-3907
Photo of Candice Worthy - Worthy Counseling Services, LLC, MA, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Worthy Counseling Services, LLC
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Woodhaven, MI 48183
Do you feel overwhelmed? Stuck? The decision to enter counseling takes motivation and courage to explore issues that are problematic. Speaking to someone new can be difficult, especially when you have never attended therapy or have had a negative experience. Therapy can provide you, with a unique opportunity to self-explore.
Do you feel overwhelmed? Stuck? The decision to enter counseling takes motivation and courage to explore issues that are problematic. Speaking to someone new can be difficult, especially when you have never attended therapy or have had a negative experience. Therapy can provide you, with a unique opportunity to self-explore.
(313) 214-2904 View (313) 214-2904

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Melissa Mendoza, LMSW
Melissa Mendoza
Master Social Work, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southgate, MI 48195
Treating Adult Females with Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Borderline Personality Disorder, Relationship Issues (via individual therapy), Familial Issues, ect.
Life certainly isn't easy. Every one of us no matter who we are needs help at one time or another. Whether you are faced with an unexpected tragedy, terrible unforeseen circumstances, trouble coping with the stresses of daily life, struggling with despair of depression, anxiety due to juggling work/life/school/family, trauma, or handling a tumultuous relationship, the truth is, we've all been there. Why? Because we are human. You deserve to be happy and healing is our first step. Ready for change? Let's talk!
Treating Adult Females with Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Borderline Personality Disorder, Relationship Issues (via individual therapy), Familial Issues, ect.
Life certainly isn't easy. Every one of us no matter who we are needs help at one time or another. Whether you are faced with an unexpected tragedy, terrible unforeseen circumstances, trouble coping with the stresses of daily life, struggling with despair of depression, anxiety due to juggling work/life/school/family, trauma, or handling a tumultuous relationship, the truth is, we've all been there. Why? Because we are human. You deserve to be happy and healing is our first step. Ready for change? Let's talk!
(833) 746-5779 View (833) 746-5779
Photo of Jennifer Lewis - Transcending Hope Institute, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Transcending Hope Institute
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southgate, MI 48195
We offer mental health services to address depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar disorders, borderline personality disorders, substance use, and more.
Our focus is to offer hope, help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan to help you build a life worth living.
We offer mental health services to address depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar disorders, borderline personality disorders, substance use, and more.
Our focus is to offer hope, help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan to help you build a life worth living.
(313) 217-3516 View (313) 217-3516
Photo of Ruqaiyah Rogers, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ruqaiyah Rogers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Taylor, MI 48180
My name is Ruqaiyah Rogers and I'm a licensed clinical social worker, LMSW-C, based in Michigan. I provide individual counseling/therapy services statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in coaching strategies for better managing ADHD and executive functioning symptoms, anxiety, borderline personality, mother-daughter/parent-adult child attachment, and codependency using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and Brainspotting, to help my clients get clearer about who they are and start making positive and necessary changes to create the type of life they want and deserve to live.
My name is Ruqaiyah Rogers and I'm a licensed clinical social worker, LMSW-C, based in Michigan. I provide individual counseling/therapy services statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in coaching strategies for better managing ADHD and executive functioning symptoms, anxiety, borderline personality, mother-daughter/parent-adult child attachment, and codependency using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and Brainspotting, to help my clients get clearer about who they are and start making positive and necessary changes to create the type of life they want and deserve to live.
(734) 212-8965 View (734) 212-8965
Photo of Shell Freeman, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shell Freeman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southgate, MI 48195  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Therapist licensed in Michigan with over 8 years of experience working as a mental health therapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD and ADHD , Borderline Personality Disorder and Mood Disorders. I am also experienced in assisting people who have experienced physical trauma , emotional abuse and the difficulties of navigating the LGBTQ "coming out process". My therapeutic style is genuine and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion.
I am a Licensed Clinical Therapist licensed in Michigan with over 8 years of experience working as a mental health therapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD and ADHD , Borderline Personality Disorder and Mood Disorders. I am also experienced in assisting people who have experienced physical trauma , emotional abuse and the difficulties of navigating the LGBTQ "coming out process". My therapeutic style is genuine and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion.
(734) 270-6716 View (734) 270-6716
Photo of Amber Lossing, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amber Lossing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Southgate, MI 48195
With my experience, I am able to provide treatment for individuals who are adjusting to life transitions, struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, self-harm, borderline personality, trauma, domestic violence, sexual assault, grief/loss, stress management, self-esteem, and relationship issues.
I believe people have the wisdom to heal themselves, but sometimes we need guidance to discover or effectively apply it. My goal is to help you build the skills and the courage to listen to your own voice and live the life you desire. Throughout the course of treatment, patients have many opportunities to practice actively focusing on positive change and living in the present; as well as develop healthier relationships with the past and future. I combine in-session work with creative, practical take-away exercises; encouraging patients to develop and apply the means to deal with future hardships long after treatment ends.
With my experience, I am able to provide treatment for individuals who are adjusting to life transitions, struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, self-harm, borderline personality, trauma, domestic violence, sexual assault, grief/loss, stress management, self-esteem, and relationship issues.
I believe people have the wisdom to heal themselves, but sometimes we need guidance to discover or effectively apply it. My goal is to help you build the skills and the courage to listen to your own voice and live the life you desire. Throughout the course of treatment, patients have many opportunities to practice actively focusing on positive change and living in the present; as well as develop healthier relationships with the past and future. I combine in-session work with creative, practical take-away exercises; encouraging patients to develop and apply the means to deal with future hardships long after treatment ends.
(734) 530-4088 View (734) 530-4088
Photo of Benita Hutchinson - Integrity House Treatment Services, LMSW, CAADC, SAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Integrity House Treatment Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC, SAP
Verified Verified
Trenton, MI 48183  (Online Only)
My work includes co-occurring disorders such as Depression and Addiction, Bipolar and Borderline Personality Disorder, and comorbidity diseases such as Diabetes, Cancer, and Substance abuse I have worked in various settings, including medical and psychiatric hospitals, substance abuse treatment centers, community mental health, and residential treatment.
Thank you for allowing me to assist you in your time of need. I will provide you with empathy, compassion, and understanding, with recommendations, insight, hope, and truth as necessary for recovery and healing. I am proficient in alcohol/drug addiction. I have treated many people with these complex problems. I have also counseled numerous people with severe mental illnesses, including Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress, Schizophrenia, Personality Disorders, and comorbidities. Both addiction and mental illness are chronic, debilitating disorders that can be arrested and treated so you can live a life with hope!
My work includes co-occurring disorders such as Depression and Addiction, Bipolar and Borderline Personality Disorder, and comorbidity diseases such as Diabetes, Cancer, and Substance abuse I have worked in various settings, including medical and psychiatric hospitals, substance abuse treatment centers, community mental health, and residential treatment.
Thank you for allowing me to assist you in your time of need. I will provide you with empathy, compassion, and understanding, with recommendations, insight, hope, and truth as necessary for recovery and healing. I am proficient in alcohol/drug addiction. I have treated many people with these complex problems. I have also counseled numerous people with severe mental illnesses, including Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress, Schizophrenia, Personality Disorders, and comorbidities. Both addiction and mental illness are chronic, debilitating disorders that can be arrested and treated so you can live a life with hope!
(313) 334-7651 View (313) 334-7651
Photo of Kristi Wandrie-Biundo, L-CMHC, CCATP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristi Wandrie-Biundo
Licensed Professional Counselor, L-CMHC, CCATP
Verified Verified
Wyandotte, MI 48192
My clinical and work experience include working in a hospital psychiatric unit with all dynamics of mental health issues, including suicidal ideation, depression, schizophrenia, substance abuse, bipolar, borderline, psychosis, domestic violence, sexual abuse, PTSD and TBI's.
I believe in a non-judgmental, person-centered, positive approach in the counseling relationship, where the client feels comfortable enough to express their feelings and thoughts while examining factors which may be causing them pain, anxiety, or unhappiness. I also believe that individuals have the power within themselves to overcome these personal barriers to attain their full potential. My goal is to support you and give you tools to use along the way, and also in your future. There is light at the end of what may seem a dark tunnel, but together we will work to get you there.
My clinical and work experience include working in a hospital psychiatric unit with all dynamics of mental health issues, including suicidal ideation, depression, schizophrenia, substance abuse, bipolar, borderline, psychosis, domestic violence, sexual abuse, PTSD and TBI's.
I believe in a non-judgmental, person-centered, positive approach in the counseling relationship, where the client feels comfortable enough to express their feelings and thoughts while examining factors which may be causing them pain, anxiety, or unhappiness. I also believe that individuals have the power within themselves to overcome these personal barriers to attain their full potential. My goal is to support you and give you tools to use along the way, and also in your future. There is light at the end of what may seem a dark tunnel, but together we will work to get you there.
(734) 315-2248 View (734) 315-2248
Photo of Brady C. Malone, MA, TLLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Brady C. Malone
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, TLLP
Verified Verified
Trenton, MI 48183
I have specialized training in the treatment of personality disorders (BPD & NPD).
Therapy is a collaborative and healing process where we come to develop a common understanding of how your personal history, unique personality, and current struggles influence your life. In any therapeutic relationship, you should feel safe and not judged while exploring your inner thoughts, feelings, and motivations. In this process, I hope to create a transformative space for greater self-understanding, improved self-esteem, and more satisfying relationships. I work with adults and couples (traditional and nontraditional relationship styles).
I have specialized training in the treatment of personality disorders (BPD & NPD).
Therapy is a collaborative and healing process where we come to develop a common understanding of how your personal history, unique personality, and current struggles influence your life. In any therapeutic relationship, you should feel safe and not judged while exploring your inner thoughts, feelings, and motivations. In this process, I hope to create a transformative space for greater self-understanding, improved self-esteem, and more satisfying relationships. I work with adults and couples (traditional and nontraditional relationship styles).
(248) 712-1129 View (248) 712-1129
Photo of Kimberly McFarland - Therapy Institute of Michigan, MS, LPC, NCC, ACS, CAADC, CCTP-II, Licensed Professional Counselor
Therapy Institute of Michigan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, ACS, CAADC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
Taylor, MI 48180
Kim McFarland is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), who works with client populations ages 13 and up to assist clients in reaching their mental health goals. Kim believes everyone can benefit from mental health therapy services and she understands asking for help is one of the hardest parts of getting started in therapy. Kim treats a variety of mental health disorders and self-care needs. Kim encourages anyone thinking about therapy to call and speak with her to determine how she may be able to help.
Kim McFarland is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), who works with client populations ages 13 and up to assist clients in reaching their mental health goals. Kim believes everyone can benefit from mental health therapy services and she understands asking for help is one of the hardest parts of getting started in therapy. Kim treats a variety of mental health disorders and self-care needs. Kim encourages anyone thinking about therapy to call and speak with her to determine how she may be able to help.
(734) 530-3781 View (734) 530-3781
Photo of Joseph Matthew Stabrava, LLP, DBTC, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Joseph Matthew Stabrava
Limited Licensed Psychologist, LLP, DBTC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Taylor, MI 48180
I became a psychologist to help individuals learn to appreciate their individuality and understand that not everyone learns, processes, and thinks the same way; but rather everyone is unique and can benefit from therapy. I enjoy teaching coping skills to people so they can feel more empowered and take control of their own lives. I find this especially important when working with clients that have had a past diagnosis of a learning disorder. I feel everyone has the potential for growth but the path to growth is not the same for everyone.
I became a psychologist to help individuals learn to appreciate their individuality and understand that not everyone learns, processes, and thinks the same way; but rather everyone is unique and can benefit from therapy. I enjoy teaching coping skills to people so they can feel more empowered and take control of their own lives. I find this especially important when working with clients that have had a past diagnosis of a learning disorder. I feel everyone has the potential for growth but the path to growth is not the same for everyone.
(734) 821-6982 View (734) 821-6982
Photo of Sierra Ellison, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sierra Ellison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Allen Park, MI 48101  (Online Only)
I talk about real solutions to daily problems and functioning including skills to prepare us for when things inevitably shift day to day. I support clients in identifying their goals, building upon strengths and skills they already possess, and learning skills to adapt to life's challenges. Through processing and coping we will work together to tackle your concerns (such as anxiety, depression, domestic abuse or violence, grief, self esteem, self-harming, suicidal ideation, stress, trauma, and whatever else is on your mind) and try to create long lasting positive change. I'm eager to help you achieve your personal goals!
I talk about real solutions to daily problems and functioning including skills to prepare us for when things inevitably shift day to day. I support clients in identifying their goals, building upon strengths and skills they already possess, and learning skills to adapt to life's challenges. Through processing and coping we will work together to tackle your concerns (such as anxiety, depression, domestic abuse or violence, grief, self esteem, self-harming, suicidal ideation, stress, trauma, and whatever else is on your mind) and try to create long lasting positive change. I'm eager to help you achieve your personal goals!
(616) 441-3785 View (616) 441-3785
Photo of Dale L Bolger, MSW, ASW, LLMSW, LGSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dale L Bolger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, ASW, LLMSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
Trenton, MI 48183  (Online Only)
As an openly polyamorous-queer-gender expansive person, I’ve spent most of my life experiencing microaggressions & unlearning the cisnormative & hetronormative messages that constantly tell us we are defective, broken, or unwanted. They are wrong! We are fabulous, vibrant & deserving, of all the gifts the world has to offer. I became a therapist to share what I’ve learned, bring healing, & advocate for queer/trans youth, young adults & their families while working for social justice & full inclusion into society. Our work will be in a safe, affirming space so we can collaborate to create & implement a road map to your recovery.
As an openly polyamorous-queer-gender expansive person, I’ve spent most of my life experiencing microaggressions & unlearning the cisnormative & hetronormative messages that constantly tell us we are defective, broken, or unwanted. They are wrong! We are fabulous, vibrant & deserving, of all the gifts the world has to offer. I became a therapist to share what I’ve learned, bring healing, & advocate for queer/trans youth, young adults & their families while working for social justice & full inclusion into society. Our work will be in a safe, affirming space so we can collaborate to create & implement a road map to your recovery.
(734) 749-9759 View (734) 749-9759
Photo of Claire Marion - Great Lakes Psychology Group, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Great Lakes Psychology Group
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Southgate, MI 48195
The GLPG support staff will personally match you with a best-fit therapist who accepts your insurance and is available to see you online or in person at a time that works for you. The GLPG provider network comprises doctoral and master’s level psychologists, marriage and family therapists, professional counselors, and social workers. Benefits include online and in-person therapy options, night and weekend availability, and most insurance plans accepted. Additionally, our knowledgeable and helpful support staff are available to answer your questions or help with anything you might need at any point along the therapy journey.
The GLPG support staff will personally match you with a best-fit therapist who accepts your insurance and is available to see you online or in person at a time that works for you. The GLPG provider network comprises doctoral and master’s level psychologists, marriage and family therapists, professional counselors, and social workers. Benefits include online and in-person therapy options, night and weekend availability, and most insurance plans accepted. Additionally, our knowledgeable and helpful support staff are available to answer your questions or help with anything you might need at any point along the therapy journey.
(734) 530-3377 View (734) 530-3377
Photo of Julie Lovelace, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie Lovelace
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Romulus, MI 48174  (Online Only)
Currently accepting patients for telehealth therapy. Do you feel anxious, frustrated, depressed, or have an issue with a relationship? Does it ever get to a point where you feel you can't do it alone or aren't sure how to improve your mood or situation? My goal is to create a nonjudgmental and safe space to work through these issues. Sometimes you just need a listening ear, to explore new perspectives, or develop tools to cope and feel better. I will do my best to provide that for you and to work as a team. You do not have to go at it alone.
Currently accepting patients for telehealth therapy. Do you feel anxious, frustrated, depressed, or have an issue with a relationship? Does it ever get to a point where you feel you can't do it alone or aren't sure how to improve your mood or situation? My goal is to create a nonjudgmental and safe space to work through these issues. Sometimes you just need a listening ear, to explore new perspectives, or develop tools to cope and feel better. I will do my best to provide that for you and to work as a team. You do not have to go at it alone.
(734) 802-0466 View (734) 802-0466
Photo of Ruth Westfall, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ruth Westfall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Taylor, MI 48180
I am Ruth Westfall, a licensed Social Worker, with nearly 30 years of experience as a therapist. I am passionate about getting to know my clients and seeing them heal and overcome life's challenges. I have the greatest respect for those who seek support in order to make positive change in their lives! During these past few years, Anxiety and Depression have increased by 25%! So, most people that I work with are experiencing some related symptoms. I have an extensive history of working with trauma and its many effects. I prefer to work with individual clients, especially when on the telehealth platform.
I am Ruth Westfall, a licensed Social Worker, with nearly 30 years of experience as a therapist. I am passionate about getting to know my clients and seeing them heal and overcome life's challenges. I have the greatest respect for those who seek support in order to make positive change in their lives! During these past few years, Anxiety and Depression have increased by 25%! So, most people that I work with are experiencing some related symptoms. I have an extensive history of working with trauma and its many effects. I prefer to work with individual clients, especially when on the telehealth platform.
(734) 577-7996 View (734) 577-7996

See more therapy options for Woodhaven

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.