Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in Statesville, NC

Photo of Mary Bennett, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Bennett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Statesville, NC 28677
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! I’m Mary Bennett, a dedicated therapist specializing in helping individuals navigate codependency, relationship challenges, and trauma recovery. My passion lies in empowering motivated individuals who are ready to take charge of their lives and embark on a journey of transformation. What were the childhood messages you received growing up that have shaped you? What traumas did you witness that have led to distorted beliefs about yourself and others? Were you manipulated so often by others that you are scared to trust anyone? These are the kinds of questions I explore with my clients.
Welcome! I’m Mary Bennett, a dedicated therapist specializing in helping individuals navigate codependency, relationship challenges, and trauma recovery. My passion lies in empowering motivated individuals who are ready to take charge of their lives and embark on a journey of transformation. What were the childhood messages you received growing up that have shaped you? What traumas did you witness that have led to distorted beliefs about yourself and others? Were you manipulated so often by others that you are scared to trust anyone? These are the kinds of questions I explore with my clients.
(980) 223-8930 View (980) 223-8930
Photo of Cierra Sloop
Cierra Sloop
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate
Verified Verified
Statesville, NC 28677
You’re overwhelmed, and the chaos and stress make you question “can life really get any better?” Heartbreak has brought hard feelings you don’t know what to do with. You might even say “I don’t feel like myself” and wonder if something is wrong with you. Your past causes anxiety that you’ve carried for years. You may feel alone and like a burden on others. If this is you, you are not alone.
You’re overwhelmed, and the chaos and stress make you question “can life really get any better?” Heartbreak has brought hard feelings you don’t know what to do with. You might even say “I don’t feel like myself” and wonder if something is wrong with you. Your past causes anxiety that you’ve carried for years. You may feel alone and like a burden on others. If this is you, you are not alone.
(704) 459-4924 View (704) 459-4924
Photo of Daniel Cooke - GARD Therapeutic Services , LCMHC-A, LCAS-A, CTP, Counselor
GARD Therapeutic Services
Counselor, LCMHC-A, LCAS-A, CTP
Verified Verified
Statesville, NC 28625  (Online Only)
Finding the right therapist is an important decision. Therapy is yours. I strive to meet my clients where they are in their life journey. I have a passion to help guide and encourage them to reach their ultimate goals. I work with clients facing various challenges including but not limited to substance abuse, depression, anxiety, and trauma. I am a US Navy Veteran, and working with other Veterans is a passion of mine and I am grateful to be able to do. Managing depressive or anxious symptoms, setting life goals, developing boundaries, overcoming trauma or addiction and more. Reach out and see if I am a good fit for your needs.
Finding the right therapist is an important decision. Therapy is yours. I strive to meet my clients where they are in their life journey. I have a passion to help guide and encourage them to reach their ultimate goals. I work with clients facing various challenges including but not limited to substance abuse, depression, anxiety, and trauma. I am a US Navy Veteran, and working with other Veterans is a passion of mine and I am grateful to be able to do. Managing depressive or anxious symptoms, setting life goals, developing boundaries, overcoming trauma or addiction and more. Reach out and see if I am a good fit for your needs.
(980) 246-4172 View (980) 246-4172
Photo of Shawn Causby - Elevate Life Counseling, MS, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC
Elevate Life Counseling
MS, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC
Verified Verified
Statesville, NC 28677  (Online Only)
I received Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy and in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have extensive experience in working with a wide variety of socio-economic backgrounds and cultures. I have experience working with anxiety disorders, depression, life transitions, women's issues, post-traumatic stress, bi-polar, psychotic disorders, substance abuse and many other issues. My approach is best described as Holistic & Integrative while it is self-empowering and collaborative. I utilize a variety of evidenced based approaches based on individual needs and preferences including but not limited to: Mindfulness and body centered approaches, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Expressive Art Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
I received Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy and in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have extensive experience in working with a wide variety of socio-economic backgrounds and cultures. I have experience working with anxiety disorders, depression, life transitions, women's issues, post-traumatic stress, bi-polar, psychotic disorders, substance abuse and many other issues. My approach is best described as Holistic & Integrative while it is self-empowering and collaborative. I utilize a variety of evidenced based approaches based on individual needs and preferences including but not limited to: Mindfulness and body centered approaches, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Expressive Art Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
(980) 737-1193 View (980) 737-1193
Photo of Keith Cheney, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Keith Cheney
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Statesville, NC 28677
Don't over-think therapy. It's just not that complicated. When things get difficult, it's often hard to ask for help. We all face challenges, and we often overcome them on our own. Sometimes it takes much longer than we'd like, and that's when therapy comes into play. Why spend months or years taking on a situation or challenge by yourself, when you could work through it in far less time? Insanity is doing the same things, over and over, and expecting different results. Try something new, and break those old patterns.
Don't over-think therapy. It's just not that complicated. When things get difficult, it's often hard to ask for help. We all face challenges, and we often overcome them on our own. Sometimes it takes much longer than we'd like, and that's when therapy comes into play. Why spend months or years taking on a situation or challenge by yourself, when you could work through it in far less time? Insanity is doing the same things, over and over, and expecting different results. Try something new, and break those old patterns.
(704) 233-3784 View (704) 233-3784
Photo of Pamela Millan, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Pamela Millan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Statesville, NC 28625  (Online Only)
ONLINE VIDEO THERAPY ONLY. Do you want to: Stop feeling stuck and take control of your life and relationships? Gain a new and profound perspective on your relationship? Stop pushing your loved ones away with your anger or other symptoms? Break your dissatisfying and reactive patterns? Stop having the same fights over and over again? Communicate and resolve conflicts easily, and mutually meet your needs? Deeply understand yourself and your loved ones, as well as experience warmth, love, and passion again? Feel a strong connection, enjoy reciprocity and synergy with your partner?
ONLINE VIDEO THERAPY ONLY. Do you want to: Stop feeling stuck and take control of your life and relationships? Gain a new and profound perspective on your relationship? Stop pushing your loved ones away with your anger or other symptoms? Break your dissatisfying and reactive patterns? Stop having the same fights over and over again? Communicate and resolve conflicts easily, and mutually meet your needs? Deeply understand yourself and your loved ones, as well as experience warmth, love, and passion again? Feel a strong connection, enjoy reciprocity and synergy with your partner?
(704) 271-9045 View (704) 271-9045
Photo of Amy Neal, MA, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Neal
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Statesville, NC 28625  (Online Only)
Do you find yourself struggling with frequent worries, anxiety, depression, memories from the past? You want to move forward, live freely, and truly enjoy life, work, and meaningful relationships with others. You have goals you want to achieve and are tired of feeling held back. Through reflection you realize that many of these struggles are tied to the past... perhaps to childhood experiences, unhealthy relationships, trauma, or past difficult situations you went through. Perhaps you can't even quite identify the reason, you just feel a heavy emotional burden and that something is holding you back.
Do you find yourself struggling with frequent worries, anxiety, depression, memories from the past? You want to move forward, live freely, and truly enjoy life, work, and meaningful relationships with others. You have goals you want to achieve and are tired of feeling held back. Through reflection you realize that many of these struggles are tied to the past... perhaps to childhood experiences, unhealthy relationships, trauma, or past difficult situations you went through. Perhaps you can't even quite identify the reason, you just feel a heavy emotional burden and that something is holding you back.
(828) 970-1584 View (828) 970-1584
Photo of Kari Overcash, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kari Overcash
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Statesville, NC 28625
Welcome! I'm so glad you're here. Whether you’re feeling upset about problems in your relationship, having communication issues with your partner, feeling anxious, sad, or just feeling lonely, I am here to help you reclaim the happiness you deserve and make lasting positive changes in your life. I have a passion for working with individuals who are having difficulty adjusting to life's changes.
Welcome! I'm so glad you're here. Whether you’re feeling upset about problems in your relationship, having communication issues with your partner, feeling anxious, sad, or just feeling lonely, I am here to help you reclaim the happiness you deserve and make lasting positive changes in your life. I have a passion for working with individuals who are having difficulty adjusting to life's changes.
(704) 445-3253 View (704) 445-3253
Photo of Michael Gebelein, MA, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor
Michael Gebelein
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Statesville, NC 28625
Life can feel overwhelming and exhausting. You are seeking balance and calm in your life so that you can be the person that you have always wanted to be. You have tried other ways of coping, but you have now taken the courageous step of finding meaningful and intentional ways of achieving those goals. I believe in you, and I’m here to help you.
Life can feel overwhelming and exhausting. You are seeking balance and calm in your life so that you can be the person that you have always wanted to be. You have tried other ways of coping, but you have now taken the courageous step of finding meaningful and intentional ways of achieving those goals. I believe in you, and I’m here to help you.
(980) 217-8816 View (980) 217-8816
Photo of Rhonda Flowers-Corpening Ph.d., PhD, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rhonda Flowers-Corpening Ph.d.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Statesville, NC 28677  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I believe in the three (3) C’s of life: CHOICE, CHANCE, AND CHANGE! I believe that you must make the CHOICE to take the CHANCE that will cause your life to CHANGE! If needed, let me help you embrace the positive and creative possibilities of life. I am passionate, yet direct in my therapeutic approach to empowering people to believe that a journey of a thousand miles begins with taking the first step.
I believe in the three (3) C’s of life: CHOICE, CHANCE, AND CHANGE! I believe that you must make the CHOICE to take the CHANCE that will cause your life to CHANGE! If needed, let me help you embrace the positive and creative possibilities of life. I am passionate, yet direct in my therapeutic approach to empowering people to believe that a journey of a thousand miles begins with taking the first step.
(980) 414-6376 View (980) 414-6376
Photo of Pamela J Meeds, PsyD, Psychologist
Pamela J Meeds
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Statesville, NC 28677
Not accepting new clients
How we think dramatically influences how we feel and ultimately how we respond to the crises in our lives. And this is good news. You can feel better. You can learn to be relaxed and focused in your work and family life. You can feel energetic and loving in your self expression and interactions with others. Through supportive and interactive psychotherapy, you will develop insight and creativity in resolving problems and fulfilling your purpose. I will help you regain control of your emotions and your life by teaching you techniques for releasing stress and negativity, changing your thinking, shifting your perspective, and restoring your confidence.
How we think dramatically influences how we feel and ultimately how we respond to the crises in our lives. And this is good news. You can feel better. You can learn to be relaxed and focused in your work and family life. You can feel energetic and loving in your self expression and interactions with others. Through supportive and interactive psychotherapy, you will develop insight and creativity in resolving problems and fulfilling your purpose. I will help you regain control of your emotions and your life by teaching you techniques for releasing stress and negativity, changing your thinking, shifting your perspective, and restoring your confidence.
(704) 469-5207 View (704) 469-5207

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Betsy Karas, MHDL, LCMHC
Betsy Karas
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MHDL, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Troutman, NC 28166
(ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS) - Reaching out for help can be difficult, whether related to adjusting to life events, stressful situations, dealing with intense emotions, relationship problems. I hope to help you feel comfortable in develop a trusting relationship in an atmosphere where you feel acknowledged and understood, and to work with you in gaining skills to cope with difficulties you are experiencing. My goal is to help you realize your strengths and positive attributes, to gain the power to make changes you need or to cope with the things you cannot change, and to find ways to bring hope and contentment to your life.
(ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS) - Reaching out for help can be difficult, whether related to adjusting to life events, stressful situations, dealing with intense emotions, relationship problems. I hope to help you feel comfortable in develop a trusting relationship in an atmosphere where you feel acknowledged and understood, and to work with you in gaining skills to cope with difficulties you are experiencing. My goal is to help you realize your strengths and positive attributes, to gain the power to make changes you need or to cope with the things you cannot change, and to find ways to bring hope and contentment to your life.
(980) 352-6337 View (980) 352-6337

Online Therapists

Photo of Eliana De La Rosa, MSW, LCSW-A, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eliana De La Rosa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
Concord, NC 28025
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in PTSD, marriage counseling, depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, and interpersonal conflicts.
Navigating traumatic experiences, challenging distorted thoughts, and adopting healthier habits can feel overwhelming. Issues such as depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and interpersonal conflicts often prevent people from living their fullest lives. I believe in the importance of creating a safe space where clients can explore their negative thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Working alongside my clients, I provide tools and strategies to help them become the best versions of themselves. I believe that, although healing is difficult, it is entirely possible, and everyone has the capacity for positive change and growth.
I specialize in PTSD, marriage counseling, depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, and interpersonal conflicts.
Navigating traumatic experiences, challenging distorted thoughts, and adopting healthier habits can feel overwhelming. Issues such as depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and interpersonal conflicts often prevent people from living their fullest lives. I believe in the importance of creating a safe space where clients can explore their negative thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Working alongside my clients, I provide tools and strategies to help them become the best versions of themselves. I believe that, although healing is difficult, it is entirely possible, and everyone has the capacity for positive change and growth.
(704) 908-6645 View (704) 908-6645
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 approaches, including skills acquisition, 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 approaches, including skills acquisition, 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 Deidre Montgomery, MSW, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deidre Montgomery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27101
Outside of my focus areas, I have experience working with bipolar disorder, substance use, depression, grief, trauma, borderline personality disorder, chronic illness/pain, children, teens, young adults, older adults, and low-income.
Seeking therapeutic counseling can be challenging for any number of reasons, from being ready to take the first step on your mental health journey to finding a therapist that's right for you. Wherever you are on your path, I aim to provide a comforting, non-judgmental environment where you feel heard, valued, and comfortable being yourself. Therapy is collaborative work with your goals as the focus. The number of different therapeutic treatments out there may be overwhelming, but I can help you find what works. No matter who you are, I will work with you to reach your next step and grow while you decide what we are working towards.
Outside of my focus areas, I have experience working with bipolar disorder, substance use, depression, grief, trauma, borderline personality disorder, chronic illness/pain, children, teens, young adults, older adults, and low-income.
Seeking therapeutic counseling can be challenging for any number of reasons, from being ready to take the first step on your mental health journey to finding a therapist that's right for you. Wherever you are on your path, I aim to provide a comforting, non-judgmental environment where you feel heard, valued, and comfortable being yourself. Therapy is collaborative work with your goals as the focus. The number of different therapeutic treatments out there may be overwhelming, but I can help you find what works. No matter who you are, I will work with you to reach your next step and grow while you decide what we are working towards.
(336) 396-5798 View (336) 396-5798
Photo of Melissa D. Tuttle - Guilford Counseling, PLLC, LCSW, DBTC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Guilford Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DBTC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27408
Waitlist for new clients
DBT is especially effective in providing relief from borderline personality disorder, self-harm, depression, and patterns of behavior that get in the way of building a life worth living.
NOTE: I am not current accepting new clients, but other Guilford Counseling therapists have openings! If past traumas are interfering with your life, if you struggle with managing your emotions, or if you have patterns of self-harm and suicidal thoughts, I'd love to meet with you. People I work with have usually tried therapy before, but found that their progress stalled out or bogged down. If that sounds familiar, reach out and give it another try.
DBT is especially effective in providing relief from borderline personality disorder, self-harm, depression, and patterns of behavior that get in the way of building a life worth living.
NOTE: I am not current accepting new clients, but other Guilford Counseling therapists have openings! If past traumas are interfering with your life, if you struggle with managing your emotions, or if you have patterns of self-harm and suicidal thoughts, I'd love to meet with you. People I work with have usually tried therapy before, but found that their progress stalled out or bogged down. If that sounds familiar, reach out and give it another try.
(336) 895-1849 View (336) 895-1849
Photo of Mary Candace Bryant, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Candace Bryant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in Depression, Anxiety, Mood disorders, Coping with Addictions, Trauma and Abuse (and often trauma-related diagnoses like BPD), LGBTQIA+ Issues, and ADHD.
Life can just feel really HARD sometimes. Coming to therapy can give you a place to unpack, unburden and untangle all of the “stuff” that’s weighing you down. I love connecting with my clients in a relaxed, open-minded, inclusive space that allows them to feel free to be themselves! In therapy, we will work together to figure out what feeling "OK" or "better" would look like, then we will collaborate on how to move towards that.
I specialize in Depression, Anxiety, Mood disorders, Coping with Addictions, Trauma and Abuse (and often trauma-related diagnoses like BPD), LGBTQIA+ Issues, and ADHD.
Life can just feel really HARD sometimes. Coming to therapy can give you a place to unpack, unburden and untangle all of the “stuff” that’s weighing you down. I love connecting with my clients in a relaxed, open-minded, inclusive space that allows them to feel free to be themselves! In therapy, we will work together to figure out what feeling "OK" or "better" would look like, then we will collaborate on how to move towards that.
(919) 804-1192 View (919) 804-1192
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 Brian Robertson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brian Robertson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28209
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with experience as an EMDR therapist specializing in trauma, dissociative disorders, and borderline personality disorder. To better serve those I work with, I am currently only taking new cases related to these specialties. I also have additional experience in treating victims of sex trafficking, military combat trauma, and victims of ritual abuse and programming (cults). I am 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.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with experience as an EMDR therapist specializing in trauma, dissociative disorders, and borderline personality disorder. To better serve those I work with, I am currently only taking new cases related to these specialties. I also have additional experience in treating victims of sex trafficking, military combat trauma, and victims of ritual abuse and programming (cults). I am 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 Taylor Ross Krumroy, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Taylor Ross Krumroy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27401
I primarily work with adolescents/young adults going through a variety of problems (depression, anxiety, substance abuse, etc). Over the years I have specialized in working with teens who are self-harming and having a difficult time adjusting to life's stressors. I do not work with just the adolescent/child. I feel it is a family issue that must be addressed by helping the entire family unit build supports and effective coping mechanisms together to move forward in a healthy manner. I specialize in working with Borderline Personality Disorder.
I primarily work with adolescents/young adults going through a variety of problems (depression, anxiety, substance abuse, etc). Over the years I have specialized in working with teens who are self-harming and having a difficult time adjusting to life's stressors. I do not work with just the adolescent/child. I feel it is a family issue that must be addressed by helping the entire family unit build supports and effective coping mechanisms together to move forward in a healthy manner. I specialize in working with Borderline Personality Disorder.
(336) 218-6255 View (336) 218-6255

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.