Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in Charlotte, NC

Photo of Bilal M Ghandour, PhD, Psychologist
Bilal M Ghandour
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
This includes eating disorders, body image, self-harm tendencies, borderline personality disorder, conversion disorder, obsessive tendencies - such as OCD, trichotillomania (repeated hair pulling) and body dysmorphic disorder.
I am a psychologist with many years of experience working with teens and adults with emotional difficulties. I believe the key to successful treatment is a good client-therapist match and your motivation to getting help. In terms of therapy style, I use an interactive, collaborative approach - a genuine and warm dialogue between two persons who work together to understand/resolve issues. Also, I view myself as someone who asks questions that motivate you to gain further insight about issues of concern and, when you are ready to make changes, I will give you tools and skills to implement them.
This includes eating disorders, body image, self-harm tendencies, borderline personality disorder, conversion disorder, obsessive tendencies - such as OCD, trichotillomania (repeated hair pulling) and body dysmorphic disorder.
I am a psychologist with many years of experience working with teens and adults with emotional difficulties. I believe the key to successful treatment is a good client-therapist match and your motivation to getting help. In terms of therapy style, I use an interactive, collaborative approach - a genuine and warm dialogue between two persons who work together to understand/resolve issues. Also, I view myself as someone who asks questions that motivate you to gain further insight about issues of concern and, when you are ready to make changes, I will give you tools and skills to implement them.
(704) 274-2728 x103 View (704) 274-2728 x103
Photo of Kelli Mehalic, MA, NCC, LCMHC, Counselor
Kelli Mehalic
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28211
My approach to counseling is simple: You can change. You can change your mind, your heart and the direction of your life. As a fervent life-long seeker of meaning and understanding of the human experience, I commit a fearless attitude and tireless ethic to charting your path toward greater happiness, purpose and peace. My clients include adolescents and adults navigating mood disorders, low self-esteem, stress, challenging life changes, faith transitions and religious trauma. I have extensive experience with Borderline Personality Disorder and offer treatment and hope through a combination of modalities including DBT skills.
My approach to counseling is simple: You can change. You can change your mind, your heart and the direction of your life. As a fervent life-long seeker of meaning and understanding of the human experience, I commit a fearless attitude and tireless ethic to charting your path toward greater happiness, purpose and peace. My clients include adolescents and adults navigating mood disorders, low self-esteem, stress, challenging life changes, faith transitions and religious trauma. I have extensive experience with Borderline Personality Disorder and offer treatment and hope through a combination of modalities including DBT skills.
(704) 286-1849 View (704) 286-1849
Photo of Brian Robertson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brian Robertson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28209
My name is Brian Robertson, but most people just call me Rob. I am an EMDR therapist specializing in treating complex trauma, dissociative disorders, and borderline personality disorder. To best treat those with whom I work with, I am only taking new cases that have complex trauma. I also have experience in treating victims of sex trafficking, military combat trauma, and victims of ritual abuse and programming (cults). I am also a member of the International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation, as well as a member of the ISSTD Special Interest Group for the Treatment of Organized and Extreme Abuse.
My name is Brian Robertson, but most people just call me Rob. I am an EMDR therapist specializing in treating complex trauma, dissociative disorders, and borderline personality disorder. To best treat those with whom I work with, I am only taking new cases that have complex trauma. I also have experience in treating victims of sex trafficking, military combat trauma, and victims of ritual abuse and programming (cults). I am also a member of the International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation, as well as a member of the ISSTD Special Interest Group for the Treatment of Organized and Extreme Abuse.
(704) 610-0271 x1723 View (704) 610-0271 x1723
Photo of Latasha G. Gary, LCMHC, MACC, Counselor
Latasha G. Gary
Counselor, LCMHC, MACC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226
I am an EMDR Certified + Brainspotting Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, dissociation, and BPD.
Trauma doesn’t often show it's effects immediately or plainly. It is often hidden in patterns of sleepless nights, negative thinking, anxious worry, and feelings of despair and emptiness. It casts a long shadow that begins to de-color every aspect of life. Activities that were previously enjoyed are scheduled less often. You've noticed not only effects but that it has changed who you are. You’ve noticed that the way you feel about the world & others is very different. The thoughts you have about yourself are no better. And every part of life is categorized by whether it happened “before”. “Before the accident, before the bullying".
I am an EMDR Certified + Brainspotting Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, dissociation, and BPD.
Trauma doesn’t often show it's effects immediately or plainly. It is often hidden in patterns of sleepless nights, negative thinking, anxious worry, and feelings of despair and emptiness. It casts a long shadow that begins to de-color every aspect of life. Activities that were previously enjoyed are scheduled less often. You've noticed not only effects but that it has changed who you are. You’ve noticed that the way you feel about the world & others is very different. The thoughts you have about yourself are no better. And every part of life is categorized by whether it happened “before”. “Before the accident, before the bullying".
(704) 741-8592 View (704) 741-8592
Kristi Knox
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28227
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) specializing in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for the treatment of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD).
I have a vested interest and the expertise of 20+ years to help patients improve self-esteem, self-worth, & mood symptoms, as well as to navigate the complexities of relationships and trauma. Whether you have been in therapy extensively throughout the years or are a beginning client, you may have emotional, interpersonal, thinking and behavioral patterns you would like to make significant and lasting changes to. This is why treatment with me spans several research based stages including skill building; accessing internal resources for bringing about change; and accessing and changing neural networks to bring about healing.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) specializing in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for the treatment of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD).
I have a vested interest and the expertise of 20+ years to help patients improve self-esteem, self-worth, & mood symptoms, as well as to navigate the complexities of relationships and trauma. Whether you have been in therapy extensively throughout the years or are a beginning client, you may have emotional, interpersonal, thinking and behavioral patterns you would like to make significant and lasting changes to. This is why treatment with me spans several research based stages including skill building; accessing internal resources for bringing about change; and accessing and changing neural networks to bring about healing.
(704) 753-8849 View (704) 753-8849
Photo of Barbara Grant-Kelly, LCMHC
Barbara Grant-Kelly
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28215  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Areas of Speciality - Borderline PD, DBT, CBT, Solution Focused, Stress/Anxiety, Depression, Foster Care and Adoption, Parenting, Relationships, Domestic Violence and Lives in Transition.
As a therapist, my experience is quite diverse and comprehensive. I have worked with individuals within many environments such as Treatment Centers, Schools (K-12), and on Military bases. I have functioned in the capacity of Mentor, Educator, Foster/Adoptive Parent and Counselor. Most recent position was a Military Family Life Counselor at Camp Lejeune in NC.
Areas of Speciality - Borderline PD, DBT, CBT, Solution Focused, Stress/Anxiety, Depression, Foster Care and Adoption, Parenting, Relationships, Domestic Violence and Lives in Transition.
As a therapist, my experience is quite diverse and comprehensive. I have worked with individuals within many environments such as Treatment Centers, Schools (K-12), and on Military bases. I have functioned in the capacity of Mentor, Educator, Foster/Adoptive Parent and Counselor. Most recent position was a Military Family Life Counselor at Camp Lejeune in NC.
(704) 246-3317 View (704) 246-3317
Photo of Josephine Shivers, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Josephine Shivers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28209
Josie Shivers is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience assisting individuals in navigating daily life with a severe and persistent mental illness as well as anxiety and depression. She has worked in an inpatient psychiatric unit where she gained experience working with a variety of diverse clients with a wide range of diagnoses. Josie specializes in mood disorders, borderline personality disorder, and interpersonal challenges. She is passionate about helping individuals manage their individual needs to improve their quality of life.
Josie Shivers is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience assisting individuals in navigating daily life with a severe and persistent mental illness as well as anxiety and depression. She has worked in an inpatient psychiatric unit where she gained experience working with a variety of diverse clients with a wide range of diagnoses. Josie specializes in mood disorders, borderline personality disorder, and interpersonal challenges. She is passionate about helping individuals manage their individual needs to improve their quality of life.
(980) 449-6825 View (980) 449-6825
Photo of Taylor Cummins(Vinson), LCMHC
Taylor Cummins(Vinson)
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210
My name is Taylor Cummins Vinson, and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC, NCC) with six years of clinical experience. My counseling experience includes outpatient counseling for clients who have experienced recent trauma, experienced domestic violence, or have been diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder. I typically utilize Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectical (DBT), and Client-Centered Therapy during sessions and create an environment of positive regard and empathy. I believe goal setting is a collaborative process between the therapist and the client.
My name is Taylor Cummins Vinson, and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC, NCC) with six years of clinical experience. My counseling experience includes outpatient counseling for clients who have experienced recent trauma, experienced domestic violence, or have been diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder. I typically utilize Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectical (DBT), and Client-Centered Therapy during sessions and create an environment of positive regard and empathy. I believe goal setting is a collaborative process between the therapist and the client.
(704) 610-6259 View (704) 610-6259
Photo of Raven Ransom, MS, LCMHCA, Counselor
Raven Ransom
Counselor, MS, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28207  (Online Only)
I am currently accepting new clients who require support for post-traumatic, borderline personality, anxiety disorders, and attachment wounds. As a psychotherapist, my clinical mission is to provide individuals seeking mental health assistance with a safe, confidential, and supportive environment. My primary focus is on helping people from diverse backgrounds, including LGBTQIA+ individuals, people of color, immigrants, and individuals with varying abilities. I am committed to helping all my clients achieve their goals, whether it be overcoming past traumas, managing anxiety and depression, or simply improving communication skills.
I am currently accepting new clients who require support for post-traumatic, borderline personality, anxiety disorders, and attachment wounds. As a psychotherapist, my clinical mission is to provide individuals seeking mental health assistance with a safe, confidential, and supportive environment. My primary focus is on helping people from diverse backgrounds, including LGBTQIA+ individuals, people of color, immigrants, and individuals with varying abilities. I am committed to helping all my clients achieve their goals, whether it be overcoming past traumas, managing anxiety and depression, or simply improving communication skills.
(919) 372-4237 View (919) 372-4237
Photo of Shelley Bunn, MA, LCMHCA, Counselor
Shelley Bunn
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28269
Feeling misunderstood and unloved by those closest to us is living hell. Pain, hopelessness, and anger burrow deep as repair seems impossible. It's exhausting to cope with past trauma while trying to keep things together in the present. Any added stress, anxiety, or depression is overwhelming. Those of you with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) are struggling with these symptoms simultaneously and it's unbearable. I specialize in relationship repair and borderline personality disorder. In family, individual, or marriage counseling I can help you heal, connect, and once again find hope.
Feeling misunderstood and unloved by those closest to us is living hell. Pain, hopelessness, and anger burrow deep as repair seems impossible. It's exhausting to cope with past trauma while trying to keep things together in the present. Any added stress, anxiety, or depression is overwhelming. Those of you with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) are struggling with these symptoms simultaneously and it's unbearable. I specialize in relationship repair and borderline personality disorder. In family, individual, or marriage counseling I can help you heal, connect, and once again find hope.
(910) 708-4632 View (910) 708-4632
Photo of Rachel Kitson, PhD, Psychologist
Rachel Kitson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28209
Specific diagnostic specialty areas include Asperger's, depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, and trauma.
I work with teens, young adults, and adults who are struggling with meeting their goals, maintaining healthy relationships, identity issues, and navigating the transitions and stressors life throws. I also enjoy working with couples who have hit road blocks and need guidance and a third party perspective. My approach is interpersonal and I offer a space for clients to gain feedback and accountability through the development of a strong therapeutic alliance. I lead an adult Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) group and incorporate skills training into my practice.
Specific diagnostic specialty areas include Asperger's, depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, and trauma.
I work with teens, young adults, and adults who are struggling with meeting their goals, maintaining healthy relationships, identity issues, and navigating the transitions and stressors life throws. I also enjoy working with couples who have hit road blocks and need guidance and a third party perspective. My approach is interpersonal and I offer a space for clients to gain feedback and accountability through the development of a strong therapeutic alliance. I lead an adult Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) group and incorporate skills training into my practice.
(704) 325-4763 View (704) 325-4763
Photo of Chad W Kraska, PsyD, HSP-P, Psychologist
Chad W Kraska
Psychologist, PsyD, HSP-P
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226
My specialty is psychological assessment/evaluations for children and adults. Areas of focus include AD/HD, Autism Spectrum Disorder (Asperger's), Anxiety Disorders, Mood Disorders (Depression and Bipolar), Schizophrenia, Learning Disorders, Disruptive Behavior Disorders (e.g. Oppositional Defiant and Conduct Disorder) and Personality Disorders (e.g. Borderline). I provide IQ testing for school readiness (CAIS testing) and educational evaluations identifying specific learning disorders (e.g. SLD's in reading, writing and math). Additionally, I provide therapeutic services for the above mentioned challenges.
My specialty is psychological assessment/evaluations for children and adults. Areas of focus include AD/HD, Autism Spectrum Disorder (Asperger's), Anxiety Disorders, Mood Disorders (Depression and Bipolar), Schizophrenia, Learning Disorders, Disruptive Behavior Disorders (e.g. Oppositional Defiant and Conduct Disorder) and Personality Disorders (e.g. Borderline). I provide IQ testing for school readiness (CAIS testing) and educational evaluations identifying specific learning disorders (e.g. SLD's in reading, writing and math). Additionally, I provide therapeutic services for the above mentioned challenges.
(980) 224-4478 x103 View (980) 224-4478 x103
Photo of Brian Robertson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brian Robertson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28209
Brian “Rob” Robertson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who has experience as an EMDR therapist specializing in trauma, dissociative disorders, and borderline personality disorder. To better serve those he works with, he is only taking new cases dealing with those specialties. Rob also has additional experience in treating victims of sex trafficking, military combat trauma, and victims of ritual abuse and programming (cults). He is also a member of the International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation, as well as the ISSTD Special Interest Group for the Treatment of Organized and Extreme Abuse.
Brian “Rob” Robertson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who has experience as an EMDR therapist specializing in trauma, dissociative disorders, and borderline personality disorder. To better serve those he works with, he is only taking new cases dealing with those specialties. Rob also has additional experience in treating victims of sex trafficking, military combat trauma, and victims of ritual abuse and programming (cults). He is also a member of the International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation, as well as the ISSTD Special Interest Group for the Treatment of Organized and Extreme Abuse.
(704) 313-1632 View (704) 313-1632
Photo of Anna Lanier-Comar, LCMHC, Counselor
Anna Lanier-Comar
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28202  (Online Only)
I have been practicing in the mental health field for 17 years. I served in the Air Force Reserves for 8 years as a Mental Health Technician while earning my MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I completed the requirements for Licensure while working at an inpatient Eating Disorder Facility in North Carolina. I have been practicing as a Licensed Therapist since 2017. Most of my professional experience is in treating Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, Borderline personality disorder and Eating disorders. I use a few different modalities in therapy.
I have been practicing in the mental health field for 17 years. I served in the Air Force Reserves for 8 years as a Mental Health Technician while earning my MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I completed the requirements for Licensure while working at an inpatient Eating Disorder Facility in North Carolina. I have been practicing as a Licensed Therapist since 2017. Most of my professional experience is in treating Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, Borderline personality disorder and Eating disorders. I use a few different modalities in therapy.
(704) 486-9429 View (704) 486-9429
Photo of Kayla Harmon - InclusiFlora Counseling PLLC, LCSWA, LMSW, LPC, ADC, NCC
InclusiFlora Counseling PLLC
LCSW Associate, LCSWA, LMSW, LPC, ADC, NCC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28205
InclusiFlora is built upon being neuroaffirmative, LGBTQIA+ affirmative, trauma-informed, and culturally competent for all (BIPOC affirmative and allied). We focus on working with trauma, LGBTQIA+, folx making neurodivergency work for them, specialty with religious trauma, self-harm, couples counseling, BPD, grief, anxiety, and depression. We work with teens and adults in SC, NC and FL. We love working through the good, the bad, and the ugly and supporting our clients to make life feel just a little lighter for them. Text or call today for your FREE-15 minute consult, to make sure you feel like we're a good fit!
InclusiFlora is built upon being neuroaffirmative, LGBTQIA+ affirmative, trauma-informed, and culturally competent for all (BIPOC affirmative and allied). We focus on working with trauma, LGBTQIA+, folx making neurodivergency work for them, specialty with religious trauma, self-harm, couples counseling, BPD, grief, anxiety, and depression. We work with teens and adults in SC, NC and FL. We love working through the good, the bad, and the ugly and supporting our clients to make life feel just a little lighter for them. Text or call today for your FREE-15 minute consult, to make sure you feel like we're a good fit!
(980) 998-1250 View (980) 998-1250
Photo of Mathilda Rose Jones, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mathilda Rose Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28202  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker having experience working with children, adolescents and adults. The primary focus of my practice has been trauma recovery. I have also provided services in group settings equiping adults, children and families with empowerment and behavioral modification strategies. Although my clinical nucleus is trauma, I have also helped individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, behavioral modification, and Borderline Personality Disorder.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker having experience working with children, adolescents and adults. The primary focus of my practice has been trauma recovery. I have also provided services in group settings equiping adults, children and families with empowerment and behavioral modification strategies. Although my clinical nucleus is trauma, I have also helped individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, behavioral modification, and Borderline Personality Disorder.
(336) 750-6831 View (336) 750-6831
Photo of Bree Normandin, LCMHC, LCAS, MTS, NCC, CCS-I
Bree Normandin
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, MTS, NCC, CCS-I
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210  (Online Only)
Welcome to my therapeutic space. I am honored to guide you on your journey toward healing and growth. With over a decade of experience in Western North Carolina, I specialize in treating addiction, anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and Borderline Personality Disorder. My approach is tailored to help you overcome these challenges and achieve personal growth.
Welcome to my therapeutic space. I am honored to guide you on your journey toward healing and growth. With over a decade of experience in Western North Carolina, I specialize in treating addiction, anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and Borderline Personality Disorder. My approach is tailored to help you overcome these challenges and achieve personal growth.
(828) 266-0411 View (828) 266-0411
Photo of Stacey Hope - Hope Counseling and Wellness, LLC , MS, LPCA , LCMHCA
Hope Counseling and Wellness, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, LPCA , LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28201
I come alongside clients to address symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, family of origin issues, psychotic disorders, and borderline personality disorder using an integration of therapy models.
I am Stacey Hope, owner and therapist at Hope Counseling and Wellness. My clients appreciate the warm, accepting, and non-judgmental approach I take to building therapeutic relationships. I create a safe space, whether virtually or in-person, for clients to be themselves and to work toward their mental health goals. My clients learn how to be accountable for and to gain better control of their own mental, physical, and spiritual well-being.
I come alongside clients to address symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, family of origin issues, psychotic disorders, and borderline personality disorder using an integration of therapy models.
I am Stacey Hope, owner and therapist at Hope Counseling and Wellness. My clients appreciate the warm, accepting, and non-judgmental approach I take to building therapeutic relationships. I create a safe space, whether virtually or in-person, for clients to be themselves and to work toward their mental health goals. My clients learn how to be accountable for and to gain better control of their own mental, physical, and spiritual well-being.
(803) 805-2971 View (803) 805-2971
Photo of Aileen Lassiter, MA, LCMHC
Aileen Lassiter
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28201
I offer counseling for Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, and women's issues. Because I understand that life goes on despite our thoughts and feelings, I feel it's important to be a guide and a soundboard to help you address your issues head-on while maintaining and sustaining new and better habits of self-care, mindfulness, emotion regulation, interpersonal effectiveness and distress tolerance.
I offer counseling for Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, and women's issues. Because I understand that life goes on despite our thoughts and feelings, I feel it's important to be a guide and a soundboard to help you address your issues head-on while maintaining and sustaining new and better habits of self-care, mindfulness, emotion regulation, interpersonal effectiveness and distress tolerance.
(336) 276-2891 View (336) 276-2891
Photo of Myriam Rabaste, LCMHC, EMDR, II, Licensed Professional Counselor
Myriam Rabaste
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, EMDR, II
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28215
Every life trauma and struggle can be transformed into strength and beauty. My passion is to work alongside those who are determined to face their pain, fears, and limitations and discover their purpose in life. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, grief, adjustment issues, anxiety, and BPD. Every week, we have a DBT group meeting online. Additionally, I also work with people (artists, and athletes) who wish to develop their performance and creativity.
Every life trauma and struggle can be transformed into strength and beauty. My passion is to work alongside those who are determined to face their pain, fears, and limitations and discover their purpose in life. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, grief, adjustment issues, anxiety, and BPD. Every week, we have a DBT group meeting online. Additionally, I also work with people (artists, and athletes) who wish to develop their performance and creativity.
(704) 870-2290 View (704) 870-2290
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Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists

What is the most successful approach to treating borderline personality disorder?

Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is considered the gold standard of treatment for borderline personality disorder. An evidence-based treatment, it addresses the extreme emotional reactivity, the relationship difficulties, and the acts of self-harm that create so much distress for BPD patients. DBT is a comprehensive program that includes both regular individual psychotherapy sessions and weekly group sessions of skills training.

What happens in treatment of borderline personality disorder?

Treatment typically consists of weekly individual therapy sessions that last an hour and group skill-focused instructional sessions that may last up to two hours. Patients are typically given homework “assignments” in which they are asked to practice in their daily life the skills they acquire in therapy. Patients also keep a diary tracking their emotions and impulses as a way to know which situations are most problematic and to help them gain control over their own behavior. Difficult situations and feelings are typically reviewed in therapy sessions and more constructive solutions found.

What kinds of problems does BPD treatment help with?

DBT was initially developed to dampen the self-destructive impulses of chronically suicidal patients. It is now the treatment of choice for borderline personality disorder, a serious condition marked by extreme emotional reactivity, relationship instability, and self-injurious behaviors. Treatment of BPD helps patients tolerate the flux of emotions without acting on them, often with a specific focus on tolerating negative emotions. DBT addresses the core problems of BPD—fear of abandonment, low self-esteem, and impulsivity.

What is the goal of treatment in borderline personality disorder?

The goal of treatment for borderline personality disorder (BPD) is to relieve the extreme emotional distress that patients experience—to curb their emotional reactivity, to minimize their inclination to self-harm, and to reduce their impulsivity. Toward these ends, patients are not only taught an array of new coping skills and techniques for emotional regulation, they are given opportunities to practice them. Another major goal of treatment is interpersonal effectiveness; patients learn and problem-solve ways to effectively communicate in relationships, especially how to ask for what they need as a way to minimize hurt feelings.