Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in Cedar Grove, NJ

Photo of Dr. Daria Luongo, PsyD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Daria Luongo
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cedar Grove, NJ 07009
Are you struggling and experiencing sadness, anxiousness and/or stress from day to day? As life and certain relationships can be challenging, we may find ourselves wondering what to do in order to stop the unwanted stress. For those who are parents with a struggling child or adolescent, do you feel like you’ve tried everything to help and instead feel stuck? Fear of the unknown prevents many individuals from reaching out and finding the right professional that is a suitable match to support healthy change. Challenges are real and there is help.
Are you struggling and experiencing sadness, anxiousness and/or stress from day to day? As life and certain relationships can be challenging, we may find ourselves wondering what to do in order to stop the unwanted stress. For those who are parents with a struggling child or adolescent, do you feel like you’ve tried everything to help and instead feel stuck? Fear of the unknown prevents many individuals from reaching out and finding the right professional that is a suitable match to support healthy change. Challenges are real and there is help.
(551) 999-6257 View (551) 999-6257
Photo of Felicia Gardner, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Felicia Gardner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cedar Grove, NJ 07009
If you have experienced a loss, transition, relationship conflicts, parent-child dilemmas, depression, anxiety or another struggle which has left you feeling alone, sad, confused or even angry, I am here to help. Stability, loving relationships, proactive achievements and empathic parenting are all goals we can achieve together.
If you have experienced a loss, transition, relationship conflicts, parent-child dilemmas, depression, anxiety or another struggle which has left you feeling alone, sad, confused or even angry, I am here to help. Stability, loving relationships, proactive achievements and empathic parenting are all goals we can achieve together.
(862) 245-4564 View (862) 245-4564
Photo of Susan J Hodos, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan J Hodos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cedar Grove, NJ 07009  (Online Only)
Listening to the narrative of every person's life is fascinating to me. I am empathic, interactive and am a firm believer that good therapy brings results that make people feel more comfortable, empowered, and gives you the strength that is needed to grow. Therapy begins with identifying destructive themes that repeatedly arise, and interfere with one's life. I believe that therapy should be transformative, and provide a healing experience. I am particularly skilled in working with panic disorder/, depression, divorce conflict, and trauma, including sexual abuse.
Listening to the narrative of every person's life is fascinating to me. I am empathic, interactive and am a firm believer that good therapy brings results that make people feel more comfortable, empowered, and gives you the strength that is needed to grow. Therapy begins with identifying destructive themes that repeatedly arise, and interfere with one's life. I believe that therapy should be transformative, and provide a healing experience. I am particularly skilled in working with panic disorder/, depression, divorce conflict, and trauma, including sexual abuse.
(973) 949-6034 View (973) 949-6034
Howard Marc Schulman
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCADC, LPC
Verified Verified
Cedar Grove, NJ 07009
I am an experienced licensed drug and alcohol counselor and a licensed professional counselor. I have worked in inpatient and outpatient settings. I work with individuals with mental health issues or a substance use disorder. My goal is to help individuals to maximize their potential by helping them gain skills and support in their ongoing recovery process.
I am an experienced licensed drug and alcohol counselor and a licensed professional counselor. I have worked in inpatient and outpatient settings. I work with individuals with mental health issues or a substance use disorder. My goal is to help individuals to maximize their potential by helping them gain skills and support in their ongoing recovery process.
(973) 547-1395 View (973) 547-1395
Photo of Christopher J Ratte, LCSW, LCADC, IFS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christopher J Ratte
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC, IFS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cedar Grove, NJ 07009
Recovery is not a solitary journey; it is about connection with self and others. As we enter into the process of therapy you will have the opportunity to experience inner connection and awareness leading to Self expansion and outer growth. I believe strongly that our primary task is to continue your journey of self exploration; to seek the wealth of potential, strength, compassion, understanding, and openness that lies within. It is your ability to connect with these that will serve as your greatest asset in obtaining whatever goals you have coming into therapy.
Recovery is not a solitary journey; it is about connection with self and others. As we enter into the process of therapy you will have the opportunity to experience inner connection and awareness leading to Self expansion and outer growth. I believe strongly that our primary task is to continue your journey of self exploration; to seek the wealth of potential, strength, compassion, understanding, and openness that lies within. It is your ability to connect with these that will serve as your greatest asset in obtaining whatever goals you have coming into therapy.
(973) 556-4029 View (973) 556-4029
Photo of Salvatrice Polizzotto, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Salvatrice Polizzotto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cedar Grove, NJ 07009
As a licensed clinical social worker, I strive to create a comfortable and safe environment for you.  A space that is judgement free and where you have the ability to truly express yourself.
 Since opening my practice in 2018, my therapeutic services have helped people get through stressful times through challenging negative thoughts and understanding the source of specific behaviors and emotional patterns. With the right tools and a better approach to situations, I will help encourage a better outlook on any issues that life brings your way.
As a licensed clinical social worker, I strive to create a comfortable and safe environment for you.  A space that is judgement free and where you have the ability to truly express yourself.
 Since opening my practice in 2018, my therapeutic services have helped people get through stressful times through challenging negative thoughts and understanding the source of specific behaviors and emotional patterns. With the right tools and a better approach to situations, I will help encourage a better outlook on any issues that life brings your way.
(973) 287-4733 View (973) 287-4733
Photo of Jacqueline Marie Gallios, PsyD, MS, Psychologist
Jacqueline Marie Gallios
Psychologist, PsyD, MS
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Cedar Grove, NJ 07009
Not accepting new clients
We are all filled with expectations and hopes, but sometimes things happen that keep us from our plans, from being happy, or just... from being. Perhaps fear, sadness, or grief have kept you stuck for a while, which has left you feeling depressed, anxious, or hopeless. This is completely understandable; our experiences can certainly shape us, but they do not have to define us. With compassion and warmth, I will help you explore your upbringing, problems of self-esteem, and communication style. In doing so, I am committed to helping you get the relief you have long needed, and deserve.
We are all filled with expectations and hopes, but sometimes things happen that keep us from our plans, from being happy, or just... from being. Perhaps fear, sadness, or grief have kept you stuck for a while, which has left you feeling depressed, anxious, or hopeless. This is completely understandable; our experiences can certainly shape us, but they do not have to define us. With compassion and warmth, I will help you explore your upbringing, problems of self-esteem, and communication style. In doing so, I am committed to helping you get the relief you have long needed, and deserve.
(201) 771-8862 View (201) 771-8862

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Carlo Gerard Salgado-Russo - Mindful Therapeutic Solutions LLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mindful Therapeutic Solutions LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042  (Online Only)
Working as a clinical coordinator of a community mental health center has afforded me the opportunity to work with a diverse clientele and to assist them in learning skills to cope with anxiety, depression, panic, grief, borderline personality, stage of life challenges, intrusive thoughts, emotional self regulation, couple’s and interpersonal issues.
My name is Carlo and I am a licensed clinical social worker. My therapeutic approach is to actively listen to gain an understanding of you as a whole person. This is done with the goal of attaining an awareness not only of the issues you face but the strengths you possess which can be tapped into to help enact a collaboratively-developed and individualized plan of action that facilitates reaching your short and long term mental health and personal goals. Depending on the needs and goals of the client, I typically use interventions based in Cognitive-Behavioral, Mindfulness, Psychodynamic and Solution Focused therapies.
Working as a clinical coordinator of a community mental health center has afforded me the opportunity to work with a diverse clientele and to assist them in learning skills to cope with anxiety, depression, panic, grief, borderline personality, stage of life challenges, intrusive thoughts, emotional self regulation, couple’s and interpersonal issues.
My name is Carlo and I am a licensed clinical social worker. My therapeutic approach is to actively listen to gain an understanding of you as a whole person. This is done with the goal of attaining an awareness not only of the issues you face but the strengths you possess which can be tapped into to help enact a collaboratively-developed and individualized plan of action that facilitates reaching your short and long term mental health and personal goals. Depending on the needs and goals of the client, I typically use interventions based in Cognitive-Behavioral, Mindfulness, Psychodynamic and Solution Focused therapies.
(973) 221-8523 View (973) 221-8523
Photo of Carolyn Goldman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carolyn Goldman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042  (Online Only)
Do you feel like your emotions rule your life? That you are overwhelmed by how to make the changes you want to see? I am here to help! As an expert in emotions, I offer compassionate, thoughtful, ethical, and effective care. I specialize in helping high school-aged adolescents, adults, and families navigate their emotional challenges. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, suicidal thoughts, self-harm behaviors, depression, or symptoms of Borderline Personality Disorder, I am here to support you. I am intensively trained in DBT, a proven method for managing complex emotions.
Do you feel like your emotions rule your life? That you are overwhelmed by how to make the changes you want to see? I am here to help! As an expert in emotions, I offer compassionate, thoughtful, ethical, and effective care. I specialize in helping high school-aged adolescents, adults, and families navigate their emotional challenges. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, suicidal thoughts, self-harm behaviors, depression, or symptoms of Borderline Personality Disorder, I am here to support you. I am intensively trained in DBT, a proven method for managing complex emotions.
(551) 264-1014 x2 View (551) 264-1014 x2
Photo of Corinne Laird, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Corinne Laird
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Caldwell, NJ 07006  (Online Only)
While my experience is varied, I am particularly drawn to the treatment of Borderline Personality Disorder, complex trauma, OCD and addictions.
Starting therapy can feel daunting, and my goal is to provide a safe and comfortable space in which to begin the process. My clients tend to be introspective people with loud inner critics who seek relief from anxiety, shame and relational trauma. Many are helpers and artists who place great value on how they show up in the world but struggle internally with low self-esteem, maintaining boundaries and making decisions. Using a collaborative, curious and nonjudgmental approach, I assist my clients in clarifying their values and goals, resolving ambivalence and building deeper connections.
While my experience is varied, I am particularly drawn to the treatment of Borderline Personality Disorder, complex trauma, OCD and addictions.
Starting therapy can feel daunting, and my goal is to provide a safe and comfortable space in which to begin the process. My clients tend to be introspective people with loud inner critics who seek relief from anxiety, shame and relational trauma. Many are helpers and artists who place great value on how they show up in the world but struggle internally with low self-esteem, maintaining boundaries and making decisions. Using a collaborative, curious and nonjudgmental approach, I assist my clients in clarifying their values and goals, resolving ambivalence and building deeper connections.
(201) 365-9698 View (201) 365-9698
Photo of Abby Sarrett-Cooper, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Abby Sarrett-Cooper
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in eating disorders, borderline PD, parenting, adolescents, and depression/anxiety. I work with individuals, couples and families in an active, caring, strengths based approach. I have advanced training in research based treatment methods such as DBT,and FBT that are proven to be effective! I combine compassion with evidenced based cognitive/behavioral interventions. I work to build collaboration with my clients and change lives by empowering individuals and families. I'm a speaker/group leader with the Eating Disorder Assoc of NJ and have appeared on CN8, WLTW-FM radio, News12 NJ.
I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in eating disorders, borderline PD, parenting, adolescents, and depression/anxiety. I work with individuals, couples and families in an active, caring, strengths based approach. I have advanced training in research based treatment methods such as DBT,and FBT that are proven to be effective! I combine compassion with evidenced based cognitive/behavioral interventions. I work to build collaboration with my clients and change lives by empowering individuals and families. I'm a speaker/group leader with the Eating Disorder Assoc of NJ and have appeared on CN8, WLTW-FM radio, News12 NJ.
(973) 568-0647 View (973) 568-0647
Photo of Amanda Perez, LCSW, DBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Perez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DBT
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical social worker intensively trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) specializing in the treatment of adolescents, young adults and adults suffering from mood disorders, depression, anxiety and borderline personality disorder (BPD). DBT is a therapy designed to teach people how to live in the moment, cope healthily with stress, regulate emotions and improve relationships with others. In DBT you and I will work to together to resolve the seeming contradiction between self-acceptance and change in order to bring about positive changes in your life.
I am a licensed clinical social worker intensively trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) specializing in the treatment of adolescents, young adults and adults suffering from mood disorders, depression, anxiety and borderline personality disorder (BPD). DBT is a therapy designed to teach people how to live in the moment, cope healthily with stress, regulate emotions and improve relationships with others. In DBT you and I will work to together to resolve the seeming contradiction between self-acceptance and change in order to bring about positive changes in your life.
(973) 556-2702 View (973) 556-2702
Photo of Yonetta Bloomfield, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Yonetta Bloomfield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042  (Online Only)
I work with clients who present with a wide range of mental health disordrers, including Anxiety, Depression, Borderline Personality Disorder and Post-traumatic Stress Disorder.
I obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Family and Child Studies from Montclair State University, and a Master’s Degree in Social Work at Rutgers University. My goal in working with clients is to empower clients to rebuild their sense of self-efficacy and human agency over their lives. I utilize a strength based, resiliency focused, and solution focused approach in working with clients in meeting each client's unique needs in therapy with individually tailored interventions.
I work with clients who present with a wide range of mental health disordrers, including Anxiety, Depression, Borderline Personality Disorder and Post-traumatic Stress Disorder.
I obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Family and Child Studies from Montclair State University, and a Master’s Degree in Social Work at Rutgers University. My goal in working with clients is to empower clients to rebuild their sense of self-efficacy and human agency over their lives. I utilize a strength based, resiliency focused, and solution focused approach in working with clients in meeting each client's unique needs in therapy with individually tailored interventions.
(973) 834-6563 View (973) 834-6563
Photo of Edward H. Callaghan, PhD, Psychologist
Edward H. Callaghan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
I am also highly experienced in depression, anxiety disorders, BPD, bipolar disorders, psychosis, and trauma.
Hi! My name is Dr. Ed Callaghan. I have a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and am fully licensed in the state of New Jersey. I am a Founder of the Integrative Therapy Institute of NJ and it’s Director of Child Services. I specialize in working with preschool and school-age children as well as adolescents and adults. I am especially proficient at working with children with ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, behavioral problems, and school-related difficulties--especially problems related to academics and poor drive/motivation. I am also VERY SUCCESSFUL at bridging conflictual relationships between children and their parents.
I am also highly experienced in depression, anxiety disorders, BPD, bipolar disorders, psychosis, and trauma.
Hi! My name is Dr. Ed Callaghan. I have a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and am fully licensed in the state of New Jersey. I am a Founder of the Integrative Therapy Institute of NJ and it’s Director of Child Services. I specialize in working with preschool and school-age children as well as adolescents and adults. I am especially proficient at working with children with ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, behavioral problems, and school-related difficulties--especially problems related to academics and poor drive/motivation. I am also VERY SUCCESSFUL at bridging conflictual relationships between children and their parents.
(732) 691-4673 View (732) 691-4673
Photo of Karen Greenberg, LCSW, Couples, Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Greenberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, Couples, Therapy
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
Having relationship problems? Feeling stuck or in a downward spiral? I work in a confidential setting where you find solutions and make changes to live a more satisfying and meaningful life. I work with individuals and couples experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma/recovery, grief, difficult relationships, and major life transitions. I also treat borderline, narcissistic personality and mood disorders. A combination of advanced training in various modalities and experience allows me to custom treatment to your needs and concerns. A strong connection to the therapist is the most important factor in a successful therapy.
Having relationship problems? Feeling stuck or in a downward spiral? I work in a confidential setting where you find solutions and make changes to live a more satisfying and meaningful life. I work with individuals and couples experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma/recovery, grief, difficult relationships, and major life transitions. I also treat borderline, narcissistic personality and mood disorders. A combination of advanced training in various modalities and experience allows me to custom treatment to your needs and concerns. A strong connection to the therapist is the most important factor in a successful therapy.
(732) 333-8025 View (732) 333-8025
Photo of Liz Johnson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Liz Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
Do you feel as though intense emotions or behaviors control your life? That other therapy hasn't been helpful or created the change you needed? People who struggle with anxiety and panic, suicidal thoughts, self-harm behavior, depression, PTSD, OCD, eating disorders, and symptoms of borderline personality disorder all greatly benefit from DBT. If you have been struggling to understand with and cope with your emotions, thoughts, and behaviors, have been experiencing interpersonal conflict within your relationships or family, or have been facing barriers to meet your goals despite your best efforts, we're here to help.
Do you feel as though intense emotions or behaviors control your life? That other therapy hasn't been helpful or created the change you needed? People who struggle with anxiety and panic, suicidal thoughts, self-harm behavior, depression, PTSD, OCD, eating disorders, and symptoms of borderline personality disorder all greatly benefit from DBT. If you have been struggling to understand with and cope with your emotions, thoughts, and behaviors, have been experiencing interpersonal conflict within your relationships or family, or have been facing barriers to meet your goals despite your best efforts, we're here to help.
(201) 548-3610 x3 View (201) 548-3610 x3
Photo of Nina Garland - Footprints to Feel Better, Licensed Professional Counselor
Footprints to Feel Better
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Clifton, NJ 07013
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, borderline, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Footprints began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, borderline, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Footprints began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
(646) 204-2295 View (646) 204-2295
Photo of Svetlana Ivkovic, MA, LAC, Counselor
Svetlana Ivkovic
Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
Verona, NJ 07044
I am a strong believer in the quote, "Be yourself; everyone else is taken." In a world marked by constant change and societal pressures, the quote serves as a reassuring reminder that our most authentic self is our greatest gift. I aim to create a safe space to explore your thoughts and emotions, all while helping you to navigate along your personal journey. In our shared commitment, we will center around identifying areas where change is desired, setting attainable goals, and implementing strategies that propel you towards the positive outcomes you seek.
I am a strong believer in the quote, "Be yourself; everyone else is taken." In a world marked by constant change and societal pressures, the quote serves as a reassuring reminder that our most authentic self is our greatest gift. I aim to create a safe space to explore your thoughts and emotions, all while helping you to navigate along your personal journey. In our shared commitment, we will center around identifying areas where change is desired, setting attainable goals, and implementing strategies that propel you towards the positive outcomes you seek.
(973) 447-9264 View (973) 447-9264
Photo of Allison S Stanton - Allison S Stanton, LCSW, LLC, MSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allison S Stanton, LCSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
My practice offers a variety of treatment options based on the client's needs and goals. After a thorough assessment some of the following treatment options may be recommended: individual psychotherapy, family therapy, marriage counseling, divorce counseling, or group therapy. Dialectic (DBT) and Cognitive (CBT) behavioral therapy techniques and practical interventions used in sessions will provide the client with tools and coping strategies to use between sessions. The therapeutic experience will assist clients with facilitating long term change, reducing anxiety and improving interpersonal relationships.
My practice offers a variety of treatment options based on the client's needs and goals. After a thorough assessment some of the following treatment options may be recommended: individual psychotherapy, family therapy, marriage counseling, divorce counseling, or group therapy. Dialectic (DBT) and Cognitive (CBT) behavioral therapy techniques and practical interventions used in sessions will provide the client with tools and coping strategies to use between sessions. The therapeutic experience will assist clients with facilitating long term change, reducing anxiety and improving interpersonal relationships.
(973) 928-0816 View (973) 928-0816
Photo of Brittany Wolfson - Prismatic Counseling Services , LPC, LPAT, ATR-BC, ACS, ATCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Prismatic Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPAT, ATR-BC, ACS, ATCS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Upper Montclair, NJ 07043
Hi! My name is Brittany Wolfson (she/her/hers), I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor, Art Therapist and founder of Prismatic Counseling Services (PCS). I use a blend of talk therapy, art therapy and DBT skills to meet your needs in therapy. I value creating a safe and non-judgmental space for clients who are struggling with anxiety, negative self-talk and maladaptive behaviors. I primarily work with LGBTQIA+ clients exploring self and/or gender identity, who want to incorporate DBT skills and want to start working in a creative environment for further exploration.
Hi! My name is Brittany Wolfson (she/her/hers), I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor, Art Therapist and founder of Prismatic Counseling Services (PCS). I use a blend of talk therapy, art therapy and DBT skills to meet your needs in therapy. I value creating a safe and non-judgmental space for clients who are struggling with anxiety, negative self-talk and maladaptive behaviors. I primarily work with LGBTQIA+ clients exploring self and/or gender identity, who want to incorporate DBT skills and want to start working in a creative environment for further exploration.
(201) 298-3190 View (201) 298-3190

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.