Photo of Sandra Constable, MA, NCC, LPC, TI-CBT, BCC, FOT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sandra Constable
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC, TI-CBT, BCC, FOT
Verified Verified
Lambertville, NJ 08530
I am a Licensed Therapist and Life Coach. I strive to provide gentle, non-judgmental and compassionate support, yet will also challenge you to grow and evolve into the best person you can be. Through thoughtful inquiry and investigation into your personal challenges we will explore those places that keep you stuck. If you are seeking to grow personally, professionally, creatively, emotionally, and spiritually, call for a free consultation. Together we can begin a journey that will take you to unlimited places. The destination is to reach your truth, so that you can begin to live a more joyful, meaningful, and authentic existence.
I am a Licensed Therapist and Life Coach. I strive to provide gentle, non-judgmental and compassionate support, yet will also challenge you to grow and evolve into the best person you can be. Through thoughtful inquiry and investigation into your personal challenges we will explore those places that keep you stuck. If you are seeking to grow personally, professionally, creatively, emotionally, and spiritually, call for a free consultation. Together we can begin a journey that will take you to unlimited places. The destination is to reach your truth, so that you can begin to live a more joyful, meaningful, and authentic existence.
(267) 915-6273 View (267) 915-6273
Photo of Jouhaina Razzouk, PsyD, Psychologist
Jouhaina Razzouk
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Lambertville, NJ 08530  (Online Only)
We often move through life carrying wounds that prevent us from living life fully. I value providing you with a safe, judgment free zone, where you can embark on a personal journey to deeply explore and heal from the issues that have fueled your life struggles. I take special interest in treating trauma stemming from either childhood or adulthood as well as relationship difficulties including attachment patterns and relationship compatibility. I am also well versed in a wide array of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, sleep, and body image issues.
We often move through life carrying wounds that prevent us from living life fully. I value providing you with a safe, judgment free zone, where you can embark on a personal journey to deeply explore and heal from the issues that have fueled your life struggles. I take special interest in treating trauma stemming from either childhood or adulthood as well as relationship difficulties including attachment patterns and relationship compatibility. I am also well versed in a wide array of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, sleep, and body image issues.
(609) 236-7583 View (609) 236-7583

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Noemi A Bolton, MSSM, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Noemi A Bolton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSM, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ringoes, NJ 08551
Stuck in a rut? There's a way out. I specialize in sex therapy and trauma. I have extensive experience in individual, couples, family and group psychotherapy. I use methods that examine the root causes of behavioral and emotional patterns which lead to depression, anxiety, alcohol dependence, substance abuse, thought distortions, relationship attachments, erectile dysfunction, or vaginal anesthesia. Where medication is ineffective, intensive therapy sessions have the power to change the paralyzing state of our psychological and physical condition. The causes may be situational, easily detected, but others may be deeper, stored in our rigidified muscles, buried in the remote recess of our minds.
Stuck in a rut? There's a way out. I specialize in sex therapy and trauma. I have extensive experience in individual, couples, family and group psychotherapy. I use methods that examine the root causes of behavioral and emotional patterns which lead to depression, anxiety, alcohol dependence, substance abuse, thought distortions, relationship attachments, erectile dysfunction, or vaginal anesthesia. Where medication is ineffective, intensive therapy sessions have the power to change the paralyzing state of our psychological and physical condition. The causes may be situational, easily detected, but others may be deeper, stored in our rigidified muscles, buried in the remote recess of our minds.
(908) 238-3971 View (908) 238-3971
Photo of Tamara Pommells - Holistic Behavioral Solutions, ACS, LPC, LCADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Holistic Behavioral Solutions
Licensed Professional Counselor, ACS, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Pennington, NJ 08534
***Currently we are accepting clients for the waiting list only*** We are also actively hiring licensed clinicians that seek to work in diverse, just, and affirming practices. Please email us for more information. I/ We help CHANGE happen; families move to a place of harmony with greater connectedness and a sense of healing. Change requires experience and SUPPORT. Using a professional, highly rated counselor helps that change to happen today.
***Currently we are accepting clients for the waiting list only*** We are also actively hiring licensed clinicians that seek to work in diverse, just, and affirming practices. Please email us for more information. I/ We help CHANGE happen; families move to a place of harmony with greater connectedness and a sense of healing. Change requires experience and SUPPORT. Using a professional, highly rated counselor helps that change to happen today.
(609) 752-3098 View (609) 752-3098
Photo of Dawn Raffa, PhD, Psychologist
Dawn Raffa
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Pennington, NJ 08534
I provide an empathetic, supportive and caring atmosphere to assist my clients in developing trust to work collaboratively on finding realistic solutions to their problems using evidence based treatment. My treatment approaches include CBT, ACT and ERP for individuals suffering from various disorders and psychological distress. In addition, to psychotherapy, I conduct psychological evaluations/testing, psychoeducational testing, ADHD evaluations, independent medical evaluations and biofeedback. Moreover, I have a background with PIP and workman's comprehension clients as well as with parent coordination.
I provide an empathetic, supportive and caring atmosphere to assist my clients in developing trust to work collaboratively on finding realistic solutions to their problems using evidence based treatment. My treatment approaches include CBT, ACT and ERP for individuals suffering from various disorders and psychological distress. In addition, to psychotherapy, I conduct psychological evaluations/testing, psychoeducational testing, ADHD evaluations, independent medical evaluations and biofeedback. Moreover, I have a background with PIP and workman's comprehension clients as well as with parent coordination.
(609) 997-9708 View (609) 997-9708
Photo of Esther Mills, MA, LBS, LPC, Counselor
Esther Mills
Counselor, MA, LBS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pennington, NJ 08534  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with a child whose behaviors feel difficult to manage? A child who stomps, screams and throws themselves on the floor, throws things, hits parents/other kids, refuses to follow directions, stands too close to other children, doesn't listen to someone else's "No!", and says unkind thing to others? I can help! I have over twenty years of experience working in clinical settings, ranging from in-home therapy and consulting to outpatient counseling settings. I spent eleven of those years working as a Behavior Consultant providing evidence-based interventions to parents and caregivers struggling to manage behaviors.
Are you struggling with a child whose behaviors feel difficult to manage? A child who stomps, screams and throws themselves on the floor, throws things, hits parents/other kids, refuses to follow directions, stands too close to other children, doesn't listen to someone else's "No!", and says unkind thing to others? I can help! I have over twenty years of experience working in clinical settings, ranging from in-home therapy and consulting to outpatient counseling settings. I spent eleven of those years working as a Behavior Consultant providing evidence-based interventions to parents and caregivers struggling to manage behaviors.
(609) 905-4251 View (609) 905-4251
Photo of Jaimie (Farkas) Miraglia, LCSW, LCADC, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jaimie (Farkas) Miraglia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC, CCTP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pennington, NJ 08534  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I believe strongly in the resilience of people, and that a healthy therapeutic relationship can promote trust, healing, and personal growth. Learning to listen to yourself with the support of a trusting individual, can help you live a more fulfilling life. I believe everyone has innate strengths, giving them the ability to find solutions in areas of their life causing stress. I will support you, encourage you, and challenge you to achieve the goals you have by building a trusting environment and relationship in which you can feel safe to discover areas of yourself that are in need of healing and manageability.
I believe strongly in the resilience of people, and that a healthy therapeutic relationship can promote trust, healing, and personal growth. Learning to listen to yourself with the support of a trusting individual, can help you live a more fulfilling life. I believe everyone has innate strengths, giving them the ability to find solutions in areas of their life causing stress. I will support you, encourage you, and challenge you to achieve the goals you have by building a trusting environment and relationship in which you can feel safe to discover areas of yourself that are in need of healing and manageability.
(609) 201-1367 View (609) 201-1367
Photo of Sandra Weldon - Sandra Weldon LCSW, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sandra Weldon LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pennington, NJ 08534
I am firm believer in the philosophy that the only constant in life is change. I work together with my patient to allow them to recognize that accepting change is an important quality for a successful and happy life. I value specifically tailoring a treatment plan to the individual to ensure we have a compassionate and understanding relationship on the road towards personal betterment/growth. I treat children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. I also provide counseling to couples and families.
I am firm believer in the philosophy that the only constant in life is change. I work together with my patient to allow them to recognize that accepting change is an important quality for a successful and happy life. I value specifically tailoring a treatment plan to the individual to ensure we have a compassionate and understanding relationship on the road towards personal betterment/growth. I treat children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. I also provide counseling to couples and families.
(609) 422-5270 View (609) 422-5270
Photo of Kristy Fox-Berman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristy Fox-Berman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hopewell, NJ 08525
‘Be smart enough to know when you need help and brave enough to ask for it.' This quote describes you! I will work collaboratively with you to help you to empower yourself to lead a more fulfilling life and make the changes necessary to do so. The key to getting what you want starts with a healthy and reality-based self-esteem. I have great success at helping people cast- off their distorted core beliefs and see themselves for the valued and unique individuals they are. I am challenging, direct, honest, and genuine with my clients and am often told this is helpful and motivating.
‘Be smart enough to know when you need help and brave enough to ask for it.' This quote describes you! I will work collaboratively with you to help you to empower yourself to lead a more fulfilling life and make the changes necessary to do so. The key to getting what you want starts with a healthy and reality-based self-esteem. I have great success at helping people cast- off their distorted core beliefs and see themselves for the valued and unique individuals they are. I am challenging, direct, honest, and genuine with my clients and am often told this is helpful and motivating.
(908) 341-1772 View (908) 341-1772
Photo of Laurie Posner, LPC, MEd, NCC, Counselor
Laurie Posner
Counselor, LPC, MEd, NCC
Verified Verified
Hopewell, NJ 08525
I work with my clients using a variety of approaches in a collaborative effort to help them reach their defined goals. Together we focus on wellness, self-responsibility and empowerment. For over 35 years I have helped individuals who are struggling with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, marital conflict and any other issues contributing to distress. Because I have been in private practice for decades, I have had the benefit of having past clients keeping me informed of their progress, sharing their joys and triumphs through the years.
I work with my clients using a variety of approaches in a collaborative effort to help them reach their defined goals. Together we focus on wellness, self-responsibility and empowerment. For over 35 years I have helped individuals who are struggling with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, marital conflict and any other issues contributing to distress. Because I have been in private practice for decades, I have had the benefit of having past clients keeping me informed of their progress, sharing their joys and triumphs through the years.
(609) 921-1769 View (609) 921-1769
Photo of Dorie Marcus Agarwal - Dorie Marcus Agarwal Therapy, LLC, LCSW, CEAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dorie Marcus Agarwal Therapy, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEAP
Verified Verified
Pennington, NJ 08534
Do you feel confused in your current situation, have unhealthy patterns of behavior, or troubled relationships? The first step of successful therapy begins with a genuine, respectful and empathetic connection between therapist and client. I am warm and personable, and strive to create a safe, supportive environment with each person. We will work together to create an individualized treatment plan in order to help you acquire healthier coping skills, develop increased self-awareness, and improve your overall mental health and well-being.
Do you feel confused in your current situation, have unhealthy patterns of behavior, or troubled relationships? The first step of successful therapy begins with a genuine, respectful and empathetic connection between therapist and client. I am warm and personable, and strive to create a safe, supportive environment with each person. We will work together to create an individualized treatment plan in order to help you acquire healthier coping skills, develop increased self-awareness, and improve your overall mental health and well-being.
(646) 246-1332 View (646) 246-1332

Online Therapists

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 Katherine Ditmire, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katherine Ditmire
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northfield, NJ 08225
I work with a variety of clients and they come to me with many different challenges to overcome. I’ve worked extensively with trauma victims and personality disorders, especially borderline personality disorder - which is treatable despite many clinicians turning their backs on this problem. I also have a high level of expertise in LGBT issues, especially those starting their transition journey to another gender. It is gratifying to be a part of helping clients achieve change and I’m honored to be trusted in the process.
I work with a variety of clients and they come to me with many different challenges to overcome. I’ve worked extensively with trauma victims and personality disorders, especially borderline personality disorder - which is treatable despite many clinicians turning their backs on this problem. I also have a high level of expertise in LGBT issues, especially those starting their transition journey to another gender. It is gratifying to be a part of helping clients achieve change and I’m honored to be trusted in the process.
(609) 245-6514 View (609) 245-6514
Photo of Regina Colgan, LCSW, PsyA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Regina Colgan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PsyA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Upper Saddle River, NJ 07458
Have you heard the term “gaslighting"? Although a trendy psychological term, it’s a real phenomenon. Usually related to emotional abuse or "narcissistic abuse". Are you feeling depression and or anxiety? Do you feel like you’re in a codependent relationship? Do you question yourself and wonder why it's happening? Are you trying to manage a history of abuse, whether experienced during childhood or presently. Are you concerned about or have you been told you’re dealing with someone of narcissistic or borderline personality disorders?
Have you heard the term “gaslighting"? Although a trendy psychological term, it’s a real phenomenon. Usually related to emotional abuse or "narcissistic abuse". Are you feeling depression and or anxiety? Do you feel like you’re in a codependent relationship? Do you question yourself and wonder why it's happening? Are you trying to manage a history of abuse, whether experienced during childhood or presently. Are you concerned about or have you been told you’re dealing with someone of narcissistic or borderline personality disorders?
(973) 671-8036 View (973) 671-8036
Photo of Eveliz Ivette Robles, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Eveliz Ivette Robles
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234
Specialty areas include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, general mood disorders post-traumatic stress disorder, borderline personality disorder, paranoid personality disorder, and attention deficit hyperactive disorder.
Now accepting new clients // Weekdays and evening appointments available. I strive to bring an effective blend of experience, expertise, clarity, concern and action to the counseling process in order to maximize outcomes and provide genuine healing and wholeness to individuals, children and families. **I am fluent in Spanish** Me esfuerzo por aportar una combinación eficaz de experiencia, pericia, claridad, preocupación y acción al proceso de asesoramiento para maximizar los resultados y brindar sanación genuina y plenitud a las personas, los niños y las familias. // I am trained to conduct effective immigration evaluations.
Specialty areas include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, general mood disorders post-traumatic stress disorder, borderline personality disorder, paranoid personality disorder, and attention deficit hyperactive disorder.
Now accepting new clients // Weekdays and evening appointments available. I strive to bring an effective blend of experience, expertise, clarity, concern and action to the counseling process in order to maximize outcomes and provide genuine healing and wholeness to individuals, children and families. **I am fluent in Spanish** Me esfuerzo por aportar una combinación eficaz de experiencia, pericia, claridad, preocupación y acción al proceso de asesoramiento para maximizar los resultados y brindar sanación genuina y plenitud a las personas, los niños y las familias. // I am trained to conduct effective immigration evaluations.
(609) 745-0851 View (609) 745-0851
Photo of Tyisha Gaskin - Footprints to Feel Better, Pre-Licensed Professional
Footprints to Feel Better
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Orange, NJ 07051
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, BPD, 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. Feel Better Therapy 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, BPD, 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. Feel Better Therapy 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 Dominique Focazio, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dominique Focazio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Englewood, NJ 07631
My experience has been with individuals, couples, and groups in an array of areas including Stress Management, Relationships, both PTSD and C-PTSD, BPD, Emotional Dysregulation, Non-Suicidal Self- Harm and LGBTQ+ identity formation.
I get it. Life happens. Sometimes you just need to talk and have someone listen. Whether therapy is new for you or you are revisiting it, my goal is help you create a fulfilling and happy life that you are excited to live. Whether you are looking to develop healthy coping skills or seek to dig deeper inside, I will work with you on your journey to a better understanding of who you are and who you may want to become. Note- To all the early birds: there is always time for therapy. I offer virtual sessions as early as 5am. There is always time for therapy!
My experience has been with individuals, couples, and groups in an array of areas including Stress Management, Relationships, both PTSD and C-PTSD, BPD, Emotional Dysregulation, Non-Suicidal Self- Harm and LGBTQ+ identity formation.
I get it. Life happens. Sometimes you just need to talk and have someone listen. Whether therapy is new for you or you are revisiting it, my goal is help you create a fulfilling and happy life that you are excited to live. Whether you are looking to develop healthy coping skills or seek to dig deeper inside, I will work with you on your journey to a better understanding of who you are and who you may want to become. Note- To all the early birds: there is always time for therapy. I offer virtual sessions as early as 5am. There is always time for therapy!
(201) 500-3372 View (201) 500-3372
Photo of Julie Nicole Saperstein, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie Nicole Saperstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Teaneck, NJ 07666
I provide psychotherapy to individuals, couples, families and groups. I specialize in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), but my approach is varied and client driven. I customize a combination of a deep exploration of the past with a pragmatic skills-based way to move forward. My clients receive therapy that feels authentic, safe, warm and conducive to profound growth. I treat a wide range of issues and disorders including ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Addiction, Bipolar Disorder and Borderline Personality Disorder. I also specialize in couples work, including post infidelity reconciliation. I also do Ketamine Assisted Therapy
I provide psychotherapy to individuals, couples, families and groups. I specialize in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), but my approach is varied and client driven. I customize a combination of a deep exploration of the past with a pragmatic skills-based way to move forward. My clients receive therapy that feels authentic, safe, warm and conducive to profound growth. I treat a wide range of issues and disorders including ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Addiction, Bipolar Disorder and Borderline Personality Disorder. I also specialize in couples work, including post infidelity reconciliation. I also do Ketamine Assisted Therapy
(201) 884-1704 View (201) 884-1704
Photo of Lori O'Leary - O'Leary Counseling, LLC, LPC, LCADC, ACS, SAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
O'Leary Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC, ACS, SAC
Verified Verified
Barrington, NJ 08007
Therapy assists in uncovering the true self. Learning how to recognize feelings enables people to understand themselves more effectively. During therapy individuals learn how to identify feelings and take control of their own lives. By learning how to pay attention to instincts and begin to challenge beliefs individuals can grow instead of stagnate. We promote personal growth and the establishment of healthy communication so our clients can achieve serenity within themselves.
Therapy assists in uncovering the true self. Learning how to recognize feelings enables people to understand themselves more effectively. During therapy individuals learn how to identify feelings and take control of their own lives. By learning how to pay attention to instincts and begin to challenge beliefs individuals can grow instead of stagnate. We promote personal growth and the establishment of healthy communication so our clients can achieve serenity within themselves.
(856) 432-1097 View (856) 432-1097
Photo of Diana Violante, MA, EdS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Diana Violante
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, EdS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hackettstown, NJ 07840  (Online Only)
I firmly believe that every child, adolescent, and adult has the capacity to change, if offered an opportunity for inner exploration and growth. Together you can embark on this journey and achieve your goals. Everyone needs hope, guidance, and encouragement. I will help you to feel empowered by sharing practical tools and techniques that facilitate positive growth. Therapy can be a healing and life-changing experience, which is beneficial for everyone.
I firmly believe that every child, adolescent, and adult has the capacity to change, if offered an opportunity for inner exploration and growth. Together you can embark on this journey and achieve your goals. Everyone needs hope, guidance, and encouragement. I will help you to feel empowered by sharing practical tools and techniques that facilitate positive growth. Therapy can be a healing and life-changing experience, which is beneficial for everyone.
(862) 217-5077 View (862) 217-5077

See more therapy options for Lambertville

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.