Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in Fair Lawn, NJ

Photo of Yonetta Bloomfield, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Yonetta Bloomfield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fair Lawn, NJ 07410  (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
Karen Rosenfeld
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fair Lawn, NJ 07410
I enjoy my profession as a therapist. Every person faces life transitions and crises. All that we can control is how we respond to these challenges. My approach is to try to understand each client's unique needs, discover and mobilize the client's strengths, and enhance their coping skills. I strive to help my client use the precipitant, what brought them to therapy, to grow as a person from the therapy experience. My approach is to listen to my client, help them process their feelings, empower them to see that they have choices, and choose emotionally healthy options.
I enjoy my profession as a therapist. Every person faces life transitions and crises. All that we can control is how we respond to these challenges. My approach is to try to understand each client's unique needs, discover and mobilize the client's strengths, and enhance their coping skills. I strive to help my client use the precipitant, what brought them to therapy, to grow as a person from the therapy experience. My approach is to listen to my client, help them process their feelings, empower them to see that they have choices, and choose emotionally healthy options.
(201) 591-1089 View (201) 591-1089
Photo of Rosalie Cespedes - Althea Online Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Althea Online Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Fair Lawn, NJ 07410
Welcome to Althea Online Counseling, where your healing journey begins and an improved self is created. In these trying times where things feel very divisive and emotions run wild, we need to know that help is accessible and convenient. Whether you feel isolated and alone, or sad, depressed, anxious or just an overwhelmed feeling of uncertainty, please know we are here to help. If you want to start a journey to a better self and find a level of peace within the chaos. Please give us a call.
Welcome to Althea Online Counseling, where your healing journey begins and an improved self is created. In these trying times where things feel very divisive and emotions run wild, we need to know that help is accessible and convenient. Whether you feel isolated and alone, or sad, depressed, anxious or just an overwhelmed feeling of uncertainty, please know we are here to help. If you want to start a journey to a better self and find a level of peace within the chaos. Please give us a call.
(551) 313-8119 View (551) 313-8119
Photo of Ratesha Berthier - Ratesha Berthier  EMDR Therapist, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ratesha Berthier EMDR Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fair Lawn, NJ 07410  (Online Only)
Have you tried different types of therapy and learned helpful coping strategies on your self-improvement journey, yet you feel little relief or no relief at all? Has talking about your problems week after week in therapy really led to the transformation you desire and deserve? Do you continue to feel stuck in feeling hopeless, unworthy, depressed, angry, afraid, worried, anxious, resentful, confused, alone, and overwhelmed? Are you searching for a different approach proven to lead to healing and lasting transformation?
Have you tried different types of therapy and learned helpful coping strategies on your self-improvement journey, yet you feel little relief or no relief at all? Has talking about your problems week after week in therapy really led to the transformation you desire and deserve? Do you continue to feel stuck in feeling hopeless, unworthy, depressed, angry, afraid, worried, anxious, resentful, confused, alone, and overwhelmed? Are you searching for a different approach proven to lead to healing and lasting transformation?
(862) 660-8048 View (862) 660-8048
Photo of Dodi L Lamm, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dodi L Lamm
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Fair Lawn, NJ 07410
I've always believed that the person who enters therapy is a brave soul. Coming to therapy means taking a leap of faith that the therapist will hear you and respond with empathy and connect in a way that makes the experience comforting in an environment of acceptance with purpose and growth. The impetus that compels someone to come to therapy may be depression, anxiety, relationship issues, or a general lack of fulfillment in life. You may want to be compassionate to your thriving inner critic. All are a genesis to a new beginning that we will work on together.
I've always believed that the person who enters therapy is a brave soul. Coming to therapy means taking a leap of faith that the therapist will hear you and respond with empathy and connect in a way that makes the experience comforting in an environment of acceptance with purpose and growth. The impetus that compels someone to come to therapy may be depression, anxiety, relationship issues, or a general lack of fulfillment in life. You may want to be compassionate to your thriving inner critic. All are a genesis to a new beginning that we will work on together.
(516) 543-3607 View (516) 543-3607
Photo of Robert Galarowicz - Dr. Robert's Clinical Hypnosis & Mind/Body Therapy, ND, ACH, CH
Dr. Robert's Clinical Hypnosis & Mind/Body Therapy
ND, ACH, CH
Verified Verified
Fair Lawn, NJ 07410
Discover How My Clinical Hypnosis & Mind/Body Therapy Service Can Help You ... If You Want To Improve Your Anxiety, Depression, Boost Confidence, or Improve Other Mental/Emotional Problems or Life Challenges I Have The Service FOR YOU! I ENJOY to help people & your Children use hypnosis and many mind-body therapies to improve their health. Discover how I can help you ... lose weight, stop smoking & addictions, sleep better, end stress/fear, be happy, control thoughts, change/build habits, end pain, and MORE ... Visit my other website http://www.drrobertg.com for $187 of FREE Goodies! Plus a no-charge phone
Discover How My Clinical Hypnosis & Mind/Body Therapy Service Can Help You ... If You Want To Improve Your Anxiety, Depression, Boost Confidence, or Improve Other Mental/Emotional Problems or Life Challenges I Have The Service FOR YOU! I ENJOY to help people & your Children use hypnosis and many mind-body therapies to improve their health. Discover how I can help you ... lose weight, stop smoking & addictions, sleep better, end stress/fear, be happy, control thoughts, change/build habits, end pain, and MORE ... Visit my other website http://www.drrobertg.com for $187 of FREE Goodies! Plus a no-charge phone
(201) 425-6339 View (201) 425-6339
Photo of Robert Galarowicz - Holistic Naturopathic Healing & Energy Psychology, PhD, ND
Holistic Naturopathic Healing & Energy Psychology
PhD, ND
Verified Verified
Fair Lawn, NJ 07410
Do You Want Improvement In Your Emotional/Mental Issues and Change Habits in 1 to 3 Sessions? .. Want To Move Forward From The Past Quickly and Easily? .. Find out how, in just 1 to 3 sessions, you could be much better, healhier, happier and accomplishing your goals, thanks to Dr. Robert's Energy Psychology & Mindy/Body Therapies. Dr. Robert has already helped hundreds of people accomplish what they desire and can help you in a short amount of time! .... It doesn't matter if you have trauma, PTSD, anxiety, want to lose weight, stop smoking, etc, I can Help You!
Do You Want Improvement In Your Emotional/Mental Issues and Change Habits in 1 to 3 Sessions? .. Want To Move Forward From The Past Quickly and Easily? .. Find out how, in just 1 to 3 sessions, you could be much better, healhier, happier and accomplishing your goals, thanks to Dr. Robert's Energy Psychology & Mindy/Body Therapies. Dr. Robert has already helped hundreds of people accomplish what they desire and can help you in a short amount of time! .... It doesn't matter if you have trauma, PTSD, anxiety, want to lose weight, stop smoking, etc, I can Help You!
(201) 257-5689 View (201) 257-5689
Photo of Irina Volynsky - Dr. Irina Volynsky, clinical director TEMA Therapy, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Irina Volynsky, clinical director TEMA Therapy
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fair Lawn, NJ 07410
Tema Therapy is a multi-lingual Center created to serve the various needs of people and families who consider being multi-cultural or multi-lingual as a part of their identity. The founder of this facility, Dr. Irina Volynsky, had multiple experiences of being asked to evaluate or work in therapy with children and adults whose native language was not English, who were misdiagnosed, and were not receiving appropriate help. Upon further consideration, the barrier presented was not only about the language but also about the different cultural context in which norm and pathology were understood differently.
Tema Therapy is a multi-lingual Center created to serve the various needs of people and families who consider being multi-cultural or multi-lingual as a part of their identity. The founder of this facility, Dr. Irina Volynsky, had multiple experiences of being asked to evaluate or work in therapy with children and adults whose native language was not English, who were misdiagnosed, and were not receiving appropriate help. Upon further consideration, the barrier presented was not only about the language but also about the different cultural context in which norm and pathology were understood differently.
(347) 826-6509 View (347) 826-6509
Photo of Jessica Nick, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Nick
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Fair Lawn, NJ 07410  (Online Only)
People need solutions that work in real life. What I love most about the work I do, is that although I initially see people when they feel challenged or confused, as we work together they find courage, develop new skills, and feel more confident about themselves and in their lives. I have a passion for helping others, and with my insight and creative approach, I am able to help people to make profound, positive life changes. The purpose of my practice is to provide a trustworthy, non-judgmental space for exploration, and reflection.
People need solutions that work in real life. What I love most about the work I do, is that although I initially see people when they feel challenged or confused, as we work together they find courage, develop new skills, and feel more confident about themselves and in their lives. I have a passion for helping others, and with my insight and creative approach, I am able to help people to make profound, positive life changes. The purpose of my practice is to provide a trustworthy, non-judgmental space for exploration, and reflection.
(201) 512-8995 View (201) 512-8995
Photo of Carol Locurcio, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carol Locurcio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Fair Lawn, NJ 07410
As a stroke survivor, I understand the unique challenges that come with healing. What I know to be true is that consistency with patience will lead to resilience. I work with sensitivity and a focus on helping clients develop skills and strengths needed to reclaim their lives. Challenges are difficult. We all have them. Therapy can be a highly effective tool to assist in life's challenges and offer alternative strategies towards a solution. The time is now. Your time is now. I would like to help you create a supportive environment for those who struggle with ongoing patterns of self-defeating behaviors.
As a stroke survivor, I understand the unique challenges that come with healing. What I know to be true is that consistency with patience will lead to resilience. I work with sensitivity and a focus on helping clients develop skills and strengths needed to reclaim their lives. Challenges are difficult. We all have them. Therapy can be a highly effective tool to assist in life's challenges and offer alternative strategies towards a solution. The time is now. Your time is now. I would like to help you create a supportive environment for those who struggle with ongoing patterns of self-defeating behaviors.
(973) 358-6272 View (973) 358-6272
Photo of Imran Rasid - Dr. Imran Rasid-Depression and Anxiety Therapist, NLP , MD, PhD, AW, CHT
Dr. Imran Rasid-Depression and Anxiety Therapist
NLP , MD, PhD, AW, CHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fair Lawn, NJ 07410
I am a depression and anxiety therapist in New Jersey. I am dedicated to providing personalized care that addresses the needs of my patients and aims to create a therapeutic environment that is supportive and comfortable. Furthermore, I am committed to providing the best care possible for each of my patients and strive to create a healing and supportive environment. As a result, many of my patients have referred friends and family members to me, which is an additional testament to my excellence.
I am a depression and anxiety therapist in New Jersey. I am dedicated to providing personalized care that addresses the needs of my patients and aims to create a therapeutic environment that is supportive and comfortable. Furthermore, I am committed to providing the best care possible for each of my patients and strive to create a healing and supportive environment. As a result, many of my patients have referred friends and family members to me, which is an additional testament to my excellence.
(201) 500-3184 View (201) 500-3184
Photo of Carole Pasahow, DSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carole Pasahow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fair Lawn, NJ 07410  (Online Only)
I hold licenses in Florida, New Jersey and New York. My extensive training and experience (certified psychoanalyst, couple & sex therapist, hypnotherapy, somatic experiencing, IFS, EMDR, PACT and Hakomi) allows me to treat a wide variety of issues successfully. (adolescent to adults). Clients with complicated problems who have been treated by other therapists unsuccessfully seek my help because of my motivational, self -powering approach to treating clients. My services range from sexual concerns (dysfunctions, abuse, infidelity, compulsive behavior, gender dysphoria), acute and post trauma stress to personality and mood disorders.
I hold licenses in Florida, New Jersey and New York. My extensive training and experience (certified psychoanalyst, couple & sex therapist, hypnotherapy, somatic experiencing, IFS, EMDR, PACT and Hakomi) allows me to treat a wide variety of issues successfully. (adolescent to adults). Clients with complicated problems who have been treated by other therapists unsuccessfully seek my help because of my motivational, self -powering approach to treating clients. My services range from sexual concerns (dysfunctions, abuse, infidelity, compulsive behavior, gender dysphoria), acute and post trauma stress to personality and mood disorders.
(201) 898-0960 View (201) 898-0960
Photo of Amal Elrafei, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amal Elrafei
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fair Lawn, NJ 07410
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, by the State Board of Marriage and Family Therapy Examiners of the State of New Jersey. I hold a Master degree in Clinical Counseling from William Paterson University. Providing a supportive and safe space for the process of healing to occur is of the utmost importance to me as a therapist. I serve adults who may be struggling with mood and/or personality disorders. Those include but are not limited to: depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders including PTSD, substance use, grief and loss, self-growth, relationships and interpersonal stressors and domestic violence.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, by the State Board of Marriage and Family Therapy Examiners of the State of New Jersey. I hold a Master degree in Clinical Counseling from William Paterson University. Providing a supportive and safe space for the process of healing to occur is of the utmost importance to me as a therapist. I serve adults who may be struggling with mood and/or personality disorders. Those include but are not limited to: depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders including PTSD, substance use, grief and loss, self-growth, relationships and interpersonal stressors and domestic violence.
(862) 701-9344 View (862) 701-9344
Alexis Powers
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Fair Lawn, NJ 07410
Alexis Powers is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 12 years of experience in the mental health field. Alexis is empathic, warm, and energetic while working with clients of all ages. Alexis reminds clients they are in the driver's seat and she is along for the ride while cheering them on. Alexis is passionate about her job and helping others meet their needs. Alexis specializes in anxiety, depression, OCD, adoption, personality disorders, and adjustment disorders.
Alexis Powers is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 12 years of experience in the mental health field. Alexis is empathic, warm, and energetic while working with clients of all ages. Alexis reminds clients they are in the driver's seat and she is along for the ride while cheering them on. Alexis is passionate about her job and helping others meet their needs. Alexis specializes in anxiety, depression, OCD, adoption, personality disorders, and adjustment disorders.
(551) 465-5204 View (551) 465-5204
Photo of Shelly D'Amato, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shelly D'Amato
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Fair Lawn, NJ 07410  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or just stuck? Do you have difficulty regulating your emotions? I strive to create a healing connection and help you work on your relationship with yourself, others and the world. I help my clients examine their patterns, better understand their life situations, and overcome obstacles to heal and thrive. I approach the therapeutic space as a team to meet your needs and objectives to empower you to attain your therapy goals. We will work together to enhance your ability to identify and analyze problems, explore solutions, and deepen your interpersonal relationships.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or just stuck? Do you have difficulty regulating your emotions? I strive to create a healing connection and help you work on your relationship with yourself, others and the world. I help my clients examine their patterns, better understand their life situations, and overcome obstacles to heal and thrive. I approach the therapeutic space as a team to meet your needs and objectives to empower you to attain your therapy goals. We will work together to enhance your ability to identify and analyze problems, explore solutions, and deepen your interpersonal relationships.
(973) 382-9959 View (973) 382-9959
Photo of Joseph Galasso - Baker Street Behavioral Health, PsyD, LPC, LCSW, PsyD, LPC, LCSW, ANP-BC, MD, Psychologist
Baker Street Behavioral Health, PsyD, LPC, LCSW
Psychologist, PsyD, LPC, LCSW, ANP-BC, MD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Fair Lawn, NJ 07410
In Person Sessions Available - We are a practice of high-quality clinicians who treat all ages, from childhood through older adulthood. Our clinicians incorporate a whole-person approach into each service we provide. Our unique, comprehensive programs are designed to improve overall health and well-being. Our clinicians emphasize the use of traditional, cutting-edge, and empirically supported therapies. Psychotherapy, Psychopharmacology, Medication Management, Neuropsychological Assessment, and Occupational Therapy Appointments are now available. Multiple offices are located throughout NJ with virtual appointments also available.
In Person Sessions Available - We are a practice of high-quality clinicians who treat all ages, from childhood through older adulthood. Our clinicians incorporate a whole-person approach into each service we provide. Our unique, comprehensive programs are designed to improve overall health and well-being. Our clinicians emphasize the use of traditional, cutting-edge, and empirically supported therapies. Psychotherapy, Psychopharmacology, Medication Management, Neuropsychological Assessment, and Occupational Therapy Appointments are now available. Multiple offices are located throughout NJ with virtual appointments also available.
(201) 297-9710 View (201) 297-9710

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of John Reilly - Clinical Consultation Services, LLC, LCSW, PsyA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Clinical Consultation Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PsyA
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
I am also trained in Transference Focused Psychotherapy to treat people with Borderline and Narcissistic Personality Disorders.
I work with individuals (14 or older) who are reflective, curious about themselves, and desire change. The therapeutic relationship is the fundamental factor in effective therapy and provides you with a safe, comfortable place to discuss issues and patterns in your life that are interfering with reaching your potential. My training has prepared me to help you work through problems and help you understand your emotional life, patterns and experiences from your formative years that impact on your life now; A better understanding of your emotional life will help you make meaningful changes toward finding happiness.
I am also trained in Transference Focused Psychotherapy to treat people with Borderline and Narcissistic Personality Disorders.
I work with individuals (14 or older) who are reflective, curious about themselves, and desire change. The therapeutic relationship is the fundamental factor in effective therapy and provides you with a safe, comfortable place to discuss issues and patterns in your life that are interfering with reaching your potential. My training has prepared me to help you work through problems and help you understand your emotional life, patterns and experiences from your formative years that impact on your life now; A better understanding of your emotional life will help you make meaningful changes toward finding happiness.
(201) 654-3203 View (201) 654-3203
Photo of Linda Centeno, PhD, Psychologist
Linda Centeno
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glen Rock, NJ 07452
I am a highly experienced, warm, NJ and NY licensed psychologist trained at Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center. Treatment specialties include: Women's Issues (incl. Relationships, Career, Family Issues), Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), Eating Disorders (Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating Disorder), Anxiety Disorders (Panic Disorder, OCD), Depression and Bipolar Disorder, Impulse Control Difficulties (cutting, self-harm, oppositionality), Trauma, PTSD, and Sexual Abuse, Relationship Issues, and Gay/Lesbian issues.
I am a highly experienced, warm, NJ and NY licensed psychologist trained at Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center. Treatment specialties include: Women's Issues (incl. Relationships, Career, Family Issues), Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), Eating Disorders (Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating Disorder), Anxiety Disorders (Panic Disorder, OCD), Depression and Bipolar Disorder, Impulse Control Difficulties (cutting, self-harm, oppositionality), Trauma, PTSD, and Sexual Abuse, Relationship Issues, and Gay/Lesbian issues.
(201) 820-0937 View (201) 820-0937
Photo of Cynthia Koch - The Koch Center, PsyD, Psychologist
The Koch Center
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
The Koch Center (located in Montclair, Waldwick, Morristown, & Englewood) specializes in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Therapy and Programs for Adults, Adolescents, Middle Schoolers, and Families. Our Intensive DBT Programs offer an opportunity to receive extensive support and expert treatment in an outpatient setting. We treat the full range of psychological issues (including Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Impulse Control Disorders, Eating Disorders, Trauma, Relationship Problems, Personality Disorders). We have a Trauma Program for adults. We also offer individual therapy from varying theoretical orientations.
The Koch Center (located in Montclair, Waldwick, Morristown, & Englewood) specializes in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Therapy and Programs for Adults, Adolescents, Middle Schoolers, and Families. Our Intensive DBT Programs offer an opportunity to receive extensive support and expert treatment in an outpatient setting. We treat the full range of psychological issues (including Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Impulse Control Disorders, Eating Disorders, Trauma, Relationship Problems, Personality Disorders). We have a Trauma Program for adults. We also offer individual therapy from varying theoretical orientations.
(201) 730-1280 View (201) 730-1280
Photo of Christine Lidestri - Advance Counseling Center, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Advance Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
Advance Counseling Center is an outpatient program within Advance Housing, Inc. that offers individuals and families an array of wellness services to support, enhance and improve their quality of life. All clinical staff use treatment interventions that incorporate research and evidenced-based practices. Group practice is informed by Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). DBT will help you or your loved on with ongoing conflicts in relationships; intense and rapid mood; difficulty stuffing emotions, then "blowing up" at others; inability to relax; impulsive or reactive decisions you often regret; avoiding responsibilities; and feeling overwhelmed.We have staff trained in Dialectic Behavior Therapy (DBT).
Advance Counseling Center is an outpatient program within Advance Housing, Inc. that offers individuals and families an array of wellness services to support, enhance and improve their quality of life. All clinical staff use treatment interventions that incorporate research and evidenced-based practices. Group practice is informed by Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). DBT will help you or your loved on with ongoing conflicts in relationships; intense and rapid mood; difficulty stuffing emotions, then "blowing up" at others; inability to relax; impulsive or reactive decisions you often regret; avoiding responsibilities; and feeling overwhelmed.We have staff trained in Dialectic Behavior Therapy (DBT).
(201) 949-3123 x241 View (201) 949-3123 x241
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.