Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in Montvale, NJ

Photo of Cheryl Golub, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cheryl Golub
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montvale, NJ 07645
Anxiety, depression and relationship problems can make life challenging for both adults and the children they care about. I would like to offer you help in a comfortable, empathetic environment. My practice specializes in addressing and treating the unique challenges faced by adolescents and teens. Treatment specializations include: family/peer relationships; bullying; self-esteem; self-harming; substance abuse; grief and loss; parenting; survivors of childhood abuse.
Anxiety, depression and relationship problems can make life challenging for both adults and the children they care about. I would like to offer you help in a comfortable, empathetic environment. My practice specializes in addressing and treating the unique challenges faced by adolescents and teens. Treatment specializations include: family/peer relationships; bullying; self-esteem; self-harming; substance abuse; grief and loss; parenting; survivors of childhood abuse.
(201) 616-7738 View (201) 616-7738
Photo of Jessica A. McCarthy - Elements Psychological Services, LLC, PsyD, Psychologist
Elements Psychological Services, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Montvale, NJ 07645
Elements Psychological Services is a full-service in-person and virtual psychology practice servicing the neuropsychological assessment and psychotherapy needs of children, adults, and families in the greater New Jersey/New York areas, as well as 39 states across the country (virtually). Our team of doctoral-level neuropsychologists and clinical psychologists work with children, high school and college students, adults, parents, and high-level professionals to address emotional, behavioral, parenting, and performance needs at home, school, and work.
Elements Psychological Services is a full-service in-person and virtual psychology practice servicing the neuropsychological assessment and psychotherapy needs of children, adults, and families in the greater New Jersey/New York areas, as well as 39 states across the country (virtually). Our team of doctoral-level neuropsychologists and clinical psychologists work with children, high school and college students, adults, parents, and high-level professionals to address emotional, behavioral, parenting, and performance needs at home, school, and work.
(201) 879-6716 View (201) 879-6716
Photo of John Tarpinian, EdD, Psychologist
John Tarpinian
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
Montvale, NJ 07645
I treat a wide range of emotional/behavior disorders of adults and adolescents. These include anxiety and panic attacks, depression and learned helplessness, as well as alcohol and substance abuse. I also specialize in treating self-esteem issues that revolve around self-doubt, and, feelings of worthlessness and inadequacy. The aim of our therapeutic work is to develop healthier behavior patterns and to improve the overall quality of your life on the road to becoming a more productive person.
I treat a wide range of emotional/behavior disorders of adults and adolescents. These include anxiety and panic attacks, depression and learned helplessness, as well as alcohol and substance abuse. I also specialize in treating self-esteem issues that revolve around self-doubt, and, feelings of worthlessness and inadequacy. The aim of our therapeutic work is to develop healthier behavior patterns and to improve the overall quality of your life on the road to becoming a more productive person.
(201) 870-4078 View (201) 870-4078
Photo of Brian Greco, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brian Greco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Montvale, NJ 07645
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Having spent 5 years working inpatient at Rockland Children's Psychiatric Center I developed my skills for providing quality therapy services for full range of mental health concerns. My passions are working with children, adolescents, and young adults to help them ultimately help themselves through this often challenging phase of development. I am currently practicing as a private practitioner in Old Tappan, New Jersey.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Having spent 5 years working inpatient at Rockland Children's Psychiatric Center I developed my skills for providing quality therapy services for full range of mental health concerns. My passions are working with children, adolescents, and young adults to help them ultimately help themselves through this often challenging phase of development. I am currently practicing as a private practitioner in Old Tappan, New Jersey.
(973) 668-4590 View (973) 668-4590
Photo of Patricia G. Vadine - Patricia Vadine LCSW Integrative Psychotherapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patricia Vadine LCSW Integrative Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Montvale, NJ 07645
With 30 years of clinical experience I offer a confidential, warm , caring environment in which life's difficulties can be explored and sensitively addressed. My style is interactive and solution oriented and I am told I bring wisdom and a sense of humor to the relationship.
With 30 years of clinical experience I offer a confidential, warm , caring environment in which life's difficulties can be explored and sensitively addressed. My style is interactive and solution oriented and I am told I bring wisdom and a sense of humor to the relationship.
(201) 654-7438 View (201) 654-7438

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
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
I am also trained in Transference Focused Psychotherapy to treat people with Borderline and Narcissistic Personality Disorders.
I work with adult individuals and couples 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 adult individuals and couples 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 Carolyn Goldman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carolyn Goldman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ho Ho Kus, NJ 07423  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating Borderline Personality Disorder, depression and anxiety.
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.
I specialize in treating Borderline Personality Disorder, depression and anxiety.
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 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
Photo of Julie Rosenberg - Julie Rosenberg, MA, LPC, LLC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julie Rosenberg, MA, LPC, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Closter, NJ 07624  (Online Only)
I also have experience working with the severely mentally ill population whose diagnoses include Schizophrenia and Borderline Personality Disorders.
Do you feel more stress than you can sometimes handle? Are you having problems maintaining healthy relationships with family or friends? Are money problems caused by the bad economy getting you down? We have all been through difficult times but need support to get through them. Many times family conflicts originate from someone else other than yourself. I can help you find practical coping mechanisms to get things back in order so that you may achieve happiness, intimacy and relaxation so that you may enjoy your life at the fullest capacity.
I also have experience working with the severely mentally ill population whose diagnoses include Schizophrenia and Borderline Personality Disorders.
Do you feel more stress than you can sometimes handle? Are you having problems maintaining healthy relationships with family or friends? Are money problems caused by the bad economy getting you down? We have all been through difficult times but need support to get through them. Many times family conflicts originate from someone else other than yourself. I can help you find practical coping mechanisms to get things back in order so that you may achieve happiness, intimacy and relaxation so that you may enjoy your life at the fullest capacity.
(551) 291-2265 View (551) 291-2265
Photo of Liz Johnson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Liz Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ho Ho Kus, NJ 07423
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 View (201) 548-3610
Photo of Dominique Focazio, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dominique Focazio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ramsey, NJ 07446
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 Barbara A Porcelli, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Barbara A Porcelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Haledon, NJ 07508
I have over 20 years of experience working with adolescents and adults. I work with ages 12 and up. I provide therapy to those suffering from any type of anxiety disorder, depressive disorders, post traumatic stress disorder, grief, bi-polar, borderline personality disorder and marital distress.
I have over 20 years of experience working with adolescents and adults. I work with ages 12 and up. I provide therapy to those suffering from any type of anxiety disorder, depressive disorders, post traumatic stress disorder, grief, bi-polar, borderline personality disorder and marital distress.
(201) 546-9102 View (201) 546-9102
Photo of Maggie Mary Terrels - Maggie Terrels, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maggie Terrels
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Paramus, NJ 07652
My experience includes but is not limited to working with individuals who suffer with eating disorders, specifically anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, ARFID, substance abuse disorders, suicidal ideation, self-injurious behaviors, MDD, GAD, Borderline Personality Disorder, Mood Disorders, and those dealing with grief and loss.
Hi there beautiful human, I'm proud of you for taking the first step towards healing. I would be honored to help you along on your journey. I feel passionately about helping people restore their relationships with food and their bodies. I specialize in eating disorders, substance abuse and grief. I am a licensed professional counselor in both PA and NJ. I have a history of working in residential treatment centers for persons with eating disorders and currently work in an outpatient, virtual setting. I pride myself on being warm, empathetic and also direct in my approach. I am also trauma informed.
My experience includes but is not limited to working with individuals who suffer with eating disorders, specifically anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, ARFID, substance abuse disorders, suicidal ideation, self-injurious behaviors, MDD, GAD, Borderline Personality Disorder, Mood Disorders, and those dealing with grief and loss.
Hi there beautiful human, I'm proud of you for taking the first step towards healing. I would be honored to help you along on your journey. I feel passionately about helping people restore their relationships with food and their bodies. I specialize in eating disorders, substance abuse and grief. I am a licensed professional counselor in both PA and NJ. I have a history of working in residential treatment centers for persons with eating disorders and currently work in an outpatient, virtual setting. I pride myself on being warm, empathetic and also direct in my approach. I am also trauma informed.
(609) 513-8310 View (609) 513-8310
Photo of Nina Garland - Footprints to Feel Better, Licensed Professional Counselor
Footprints to Feel Better
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Saddle River, NJ 07458
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 Meredith L Friedson, PhD, Psychologist
Meredith L Friedson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Park Ridge, NJ 07656  (Online Only)
I specialize in depression, trauma, borderline personality disorder, self-injury, and psychosis.
Whether you are in an acute state of crisis, are hoping to improve relational difficulties, or merely want a space where you can feel recognized and understood, a relationship with a trusted therapist can lead to more personal freedom, self-acceptance, and lasting change. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who has experience working with people from many diverse backgrounds and all age groups. I view therapy as a collaborative effort where my goal is to help you better understand yourself. I approach therapy with non-judgmental curiosity and look forward to learning more about you.
I specialize in depression, trauma, borderline personality disorder, self-injury, and psychosis.
Whether you are in an acute state of crisis, are hoping to improve relational difficulties, or merely want a space where you can feel recognized and understood, a relationship with a trusted therapist can lead to more personal freedom, self-acceptance, and lasting change. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who has experience working with people from many diverse backgrounds and all age groups. I view therapy as a collaborative effort where my goal is to help you better understand yourself. I approach therapy with non-judgmental curiosity and look forward to learning more about you.
(201) 733-4379 View (201) 733-4379
Photo of Linda Centeno, PhD, Psychologist
Linda Centeno
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
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 Kaitlynn Azner - Monarch Counseling, MSW, LSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Monarch Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Midland Park, NJ 07432
My name is Kaitlynn Azner. I am a licensed social worker, licensed certified alcohol and drug counselor, and certified clinical supervisor; additionally, I am certified in trauma and dialectical behavioral therapy. I am committed to providing evidence-based interventions to empower clients to overcome obstacles and break patterns in order to reach their deepest potential and serenity. I am a strong, passionate practitioner whose desire to aid those suffering from substance use and mental illness to achieve wellness and stability stems from having lived experiences in my field of practice.
My name is Kaitlynn Azner. I am a licensed social worker, licensed certified alcohol and drug counselor, and certified clinical supervisor; additionally, I am certified in trauma and dialectical behavioral therapy. I am committed to providing evidence-based interventions to empower clients to overcome obstacles and break patterns in order to reach their deepest potential and serenity. I am a strong, passionate practitioner whose desire to aid those suffering from substance use and mental illness to achieve wellness and stability stems from having lived experiences in my field of practice.
(973) 348-6004 View (973) 348-6004
Photo of Joseph Chlebowski, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joseph Chlebowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wyckoff, NJ 07481
To me, it's a privilege to work with my clients to find the solutions that help them cope with the struggles in their lives. I work with individuals, couples and families to help them overcome struggles, achieve goals, and establish better communication. Although I help my clients work through a broad range of issues, I specialize in DBT, personality disorders and performing interventions. Additionally, I am a fitness enthusiast and love to encourage my clients to lead healthy lives in all aspects.
To me, it's a privilege to work with my clients to find the solutions that help them cope with the struggles in their lives. I work with individuals, couples and families to help them overcome struggles, achieve goals, and establish better communication. Although I help my clients work through a broad range of issues, I specialize in DBT, personality disorders and performing interventions. Additionally, I am a fitness enthusiast and love to encourage my clients to lead healthy lives in all aspects.
(862) 288-7652 View (862) 288-7652
Photo of Cynthia Koch - The Koch Center, PsyD, Psychologist
The Koch Center
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Waldwick, NJ 07463
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.