Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in Ramsey, NJ

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
Nicole Kangley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Ramsey, NJ 07446
People's lives are shaped not as much by their experiences but rather by how they perceive their experiences. "When we change how we look at things, the things we look at change" Wayne Dyer. By expanding what is assumed, expected or believed people become able to change how they experience life. As thinking changes for the positive even challenges can be experienced as an opportunity for growth. Experience includes clinical supervisor for adolescent inpatient program, developed and coordinated adolescent partial hospital program, clinician for adult and adolescent intensive outpatient group for addiction and psychiatric issues.
People's lives are shaped not as much by their experiences but rather by how they perceive their experiences. "When we change how we look at things, the things we look at change" Wayne Dyer. By expanding what is assumed, expected or believed people become able to change how they experience life. As thinking changes for the positive even challenges can be experienced as an opportunity for growth. Experience includes clinical supervisor for adolescent inpatient program, developed and coordinated adolescent partial hospital program, clinician for adult and adolescent intensive outpatient group for addiction and psychiatric issues.
(551) 209-1947 View (551) 209-1947
Photo of Kaitlynn Azner - Monarch Counseling, MSW, LSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Monarch Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Ramsey, NJ 07446
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.
(862) 292-4054 View (862) 292-4054
Photo of Colleen Amundson, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Colleen Amundson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ramsey, NJ 07446
Therapy can be intimidating and scary. Therapy can also be an amazing adventure full of wonderful insight and inspirational growth. As a Licensed Professional Counselor in NJ and PA with a decade of experience I provide therapeutic services to young adults and adults ages 18 and up. I have experience with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, ADHD, ODD, and anger management. I am certified in telemedicine counseling, anxiety treatment, and dialectical behavior therapy. I am an ally to all and provide judgement free therapy. Currently accepting Aetna, BCBS, Cigna, Oxford, and United health insurance in NJ. BCBS and Aetna in PA.
Therapy can be intimidating and scary. Therapy can also be an amazing adventure full of wonderful insight and inspirational growth. As a Licensed Professional Counselor in NJ and PA with a decade of experience I provide therapeutic services to young adults and adults ages 18 and up. I have experience with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, ADHD, ODD, and anger management. I am certified in telemedicine counseling, anxiety treatment, and dialectical behavior therapy. I am an ally to all and provide judgement free therapy. Currently accepting Aetna, BCBS, Cigna, Oxford, and United health insurance in NJ. BCBS and Aetna in PA.
(201) 379-2850 View (201) 379-2850
Photo of Mofeeda Hassan, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mofeeda Hassan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ramsey, NJ 07446
I am passionate about working with individuals, couples, and families who struggle to deal with mental health issues, relational dynamics, systemic and political upheaval, and developmental setbacks. I assist clients with issues related to multiple areas of their lives and help them find solutions, relief, and clarity into the problems they face. I find that clients who are motivated to change their lives want to know they have the capabilities to make the adjustments they need. Through self-advocacy, tailored solutions, and inspiring hope, we can find the end of the tunnel together.
I am passionate about working with individuals, couples, and families who struggle to deal with mental health issues, relational dynamics, systemic and political upheaval, and developmental setbacks. I assist clients with issues related to multiple areas of their lives and help them find solutions, relief, and clarity into the problems they face. I find that clients who are motivated to change their lives want to know they have the capabilities to make the adjustments they need. Through self-advocacy, tailored solutions, and inspiring hope, we can find the end of the tunnel together.
(551) 354-0665 View (551) 354-0665
Photo of Yehuda Morrison- Trauma And Attachment Informed Therapy, CSAT, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Yehuda Morrison- Trauma And Attachment Informed Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, CSAT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Ramsey, NJ 07446
Are you seeking a path to healing and transformation for trauma, sex addiction, anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns? In the world of mental health and psychotherapy, there are various approaches that offer hope and healing for individuals facing a wide array of challenges, from trauma and sex addiction to anxiety and depression. Three powerful therapeutic modalities stand out in this transformative process: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Ego State Interventions, and Attachment-Based Approaches.
Are you seeking a path to healing and transformation for trauma, sex addiction, anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns? In the world of mental health and psychotherapy, there are various approaches that offer hope and healing for individuals facing a wide array of challenges, from trauma and sex addiction to anxiety and depression. Three powerful therapeutic modalities stand out in this transformative process: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Ego State Interventions, and Attachment-Based Approaches.
(201) 464-9659 View (201) 464-9659
Photo of Shaun Peter DeMauro - Summit Psychotherapy and Wellness Center. LLC, MA, PsyD, Psychologist
Summit Psychotherapy and Wellness Center. LLC
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Ramsey, NJ 07446
Summit Psychotherapy and Wellness Center LLC houses a unique combination of specialists supporting a holistic level of care through group and individual counseling sessions. We are comprised of two Licensed Doctoral Level professionals, a Registered Nurse, and a behaviorist. We look beyond the medical model and focus on positive psychological factors and strength based perspectives to assist in managing outcomes related to emotional, transitional, and cognitive developments. Our CEO, Dr. Shaun DeMauro Psy.D, will screen participants and will consult with our multidisciplinary team to ensure care is within our scope of practice.
Summit Psychotherapy and Wellness Center LLC houses a unique combination of specialists supporting a holistic level of care through group and individual counseling sessions. We are comprised of two Licensed Doctoral Level professionals, a Registered Nurse, and a behaviorist. We look beyond the medical model and focus on positive psychological factors and strength based perspectives to assist in managing outcomes related to emotional, transitional, and cognitive developments. Our CEO, Dr. Shaun DeMauro Psy.D, will screen participants and will consult with our multidisciplinary team to ensure care is within our scope of practice.
(551) 500-2040 View (551) 500-2040
Photo of Anthony Lauricella, PhD, Psychologist
Anthony Lauricella
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ramsey, NJ 07446  (Online Only)
Psychotherapy is an act of courage. Finding the right person to work with can take time. I will assist you with the process. I spend time answering questions you might have about psychotherapy and work to ensure that we develop a positive therapeutic alliance through empathy, compassion, respect, and care. I believe that psychotherapy should be a growth-enhancing process. Growth can be a slower process than we desire and is not always easy but afterwards, I hope that you have a greater understanding of your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
Psychotherapy is an act of courage. Finding the right person to work with can take time. I will assist you with the process. I spend time answering questions you might have about psychotherapy and work to ensure that we develop a positive therapeutic alliance through empathy, compassion, respect, and care. I believe that psychotherapy should be a growth-enhancing process. Growth can be a slower process than we desire and is not always easy but afterwards, I hope that you have a greater understanding of your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
(631) 731-4003 View (631) 731-4003
Photo of Angela Prestifilippo, MA, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Angela Prestifilippo
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ramsey, NJ 07446  (Online Only)
While everyone is facing challenging times based on many circumstances that life is presenting, its important to know that you are not alone. Often times, we have difficulty coping with life stressors. That can result in becoming withdrawn, experience difficulty in relationships, or face increased anxiety. I believe that our experiences from birth, adolescents years, and into our adult life have a tremendous impact on our worldview. My approach involves collaborating with my clients to explore the impact of past experiences in order to develop the healthy coping skills needed to face life's challenges.
While everyone is facing challenging times based on many circumstances that life is presenting, its important to know that you are not alone. Often times, we have difficulty coping with life stressors. That can result in becoming withdrawn, experience difficulty in relationships, or face increased anxiety. I believe that our experiences from birth, adolescents years, and into our adult life have a tremendous impact on our worldview. My approach involves collaborating with my clients to explore the impact of past experiences in order to develop the healthy coping skills needed to face life's challenges.
(201) 389-9077 View (201) 389-9077
Photo of Marni Neuburger, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marni Neuburger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ramsey, NJ 07446
Are you at a pivotal moment in your life, sensing the need for change? Perhaps you are amidst a landscape of uncertainty, yearning for clarity and direction. Together, we can navigate this terrain of transformation, drawing upon the tools of therapy to illuminate the path ahead. Let's embark on this journey together, unraveling the layers of your experience and uncovering the roots of any feelings of stagnation or being stuck. Through our collaboration, we can cultivate a space for growth, healing, and profound personal evolution."
Are you at a pivotal moment in your life, sensing the need for change? Perhaps you are amidst a landscape of uncertainty, yearning for clarity and direction. Together, we can navigate this terrain of transformation, drawing upon the tools of therapy to illuminate the path ahead. Let's embark on this journey together, unraveling the layers of your experience and uncovering the roots of any feelings of stagnation or being stuck. Through our collaboration, we can cultivate a space for growth, healing, and profound personal evolution."
(201) 552-3143 View (201) 552-3143
Photo of Ezra Cowan - The Center for OCD, PsyD, Psychologist
The Center for OCD
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ramsey, NJ 07446
Are you tired of avoiding and performing frustrating rituals to reduce anxiety and uncertainty? Do you find yourself stuck and unable to move on from unwanted scary thoughts? Are you ready and eager to live a much more flexible, relaxed, and connected life?
Are you tired of avoiding and performing frustrating rituals to reduce anxiety and uncertainty? Do you find yourself stuck and unable to move on from unwanted scary thoughts? Are you ready and eager to live a much more flexible, relaxed, and connected life?
(201) 298-7861 View (201) 298-7861
Photo of Dawn Farrar, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dawn Farrar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ramsey, NJ 07446
Have you been thinking... “Something Needs To Change”? Are you feeling frustrated, hopeless or helpless? Sometimes we get stuck in our feelings, thoughts, behaviors, situations, relationships and commitments. Asking for help can be your first step into initiating that change. I will meet you where you are now, explore how you got there and where you would like to see yourself going forward. Together we will formulate and work on an individualized plan for the changes you would like in your life with attainable goals and objectives. We will recognize and build on your strengths, improve your sense of self, confidence and self esteem.
Have you been thinking... “Something Needs To Change”? Are you feeling frustrated, hopeless or helpless? Sometimes we get stuck in our feelings, thoughts, behaviors, situations, relationships and commitments. Asking for help can be your first step into initiating that change. I will meet you where you are now, explore how you got there and where you would like to see yourself going forward. Together we will formulate and work on an individualized plan for the changes you would like in your life with attainable goals and objectives. We will recognize and build on your strengths, improve your sense of self, confidence and self esteem.
(201) 977-4980 View (201) 977-4980
Photo of Felicia Elaine Polcari, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Felicia Elaine Polcari
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ramsey, NJ 07446
For over 30 years I have maintained a private practice woking with adults, children, couples, families and groups. I am also a certified divorce mediator. I have a degree in Special and Elementary Education.and have taught courses in assertiveness training and a divorce workshop for many years. I supervised the out patient department in Catholic Community Services for Six years. I also have worked in an eating disorders clinic and am familiar with 12 step programs. At this time, due to the amount of people who are in need of counseling, I am limiting my practice and am not working with young children or Anyone with eating disorders.
For over 30 years I have maintained a private practice woking with adults, children, couples, families and groups. I am also a certified divorce mediator. I have a degree in Special and Elementary Education.and have taught courses in assertiveness training and a divorce workshop for many years. I supervised the out patient department in Catholic Community Services for Six years. I also have worked in an eating disorders clinic and am familiar with 12 step programs. At this time, due to the amount of people who are in need of counseling, I am limiting my practice and am not working with young children or Anyone with eating disorders.
(201) 345-1795 View (201) 345-1795
Photo of Maureen C Kelley, PsyD, Psychologist
Maureen C Kelley
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Ramsey, NJ 07446
As a licensed psychologist for 19 years, I'm devoted to the treatment of children, adolescents, adults, and families. I've worked in various medical and educational settings and am licensed in NJ, NY and FL. I treat children, adolescents, and adults with a broad range of psychological and behavioral disorders, including: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, school refusal, divorce, adolescent issues, & behavior disorders. I am skilled in psychological testing of children, adolescents, and their families and conduct psychoeducational evaluations for school placement. I am available for in-person and virtual sessions.
As a licensed psychologist for 19 years, I'm devoted to the treatment of children, adolescents, adults, and families. I've worked in various medical and educational settings and am licensed in NJ, NY and FL. I treat children, adolescents, and adults with a broad range of psychological and behavioral disorders, including: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, school refusal, divorce, adolescent issues, & behavior disorders. I am skilled in psychological testing of children, adolescents, and their families and conduct psychoeducational evaluations for school placement. I am available for in-person and virtual sessions.
(201) 327-0844 View (201) 327-0844
Photo of Elisa Bruckner, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elisa Bruckner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ramsey, NJ 07446
Do you often feel dissatisfied in your life? Do you have difficulty communicating your feelings and needs to others? Perhaps anxiety and depression are getting in your way of a happier existence. My style is interactive, compassionate and non-judgmental. I aim to help you discover and activate your personal resources that you already possess. I do everything possible to create a safe environment. Together we can then help you to gain the courage to take risks in pursuit of a happier, more liberating life.
Do you often feel dissatisfied in your life? Do you have difficulty communicating your feelings and needs to others? Perhaps anxiety and depression are getting in your way of a happier existence. My style is interactive, compassionate and non-judgmental. I aim to help you discover and activate your personal resources that you already possess. I do everything possible to create a safe environment. Together we can then help you to gain the courage to take risks in pursuit of a happier, more liberating life.
(201) 231-7224 View (201) 231-7224
Photo of Eliyahu Serkez, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Eliyahu Serkez
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ramsey, NJ 07446
Are you tired of avoiding? Do you feel the need to perform frustrating rituals in an endless cycle to get rid of anxiety, uncertainty and even sensitivities to sounds? Are you stuck with unwanted thoughts and physical sensations? Do you feel like your world is getting smaller as your emotions take over? I'm Eliyahu Serkez, and throughout my career, I have specialized and dedicated myself to treating those who are trapped by anxiety, OCD and Misophonia. I did this because I understand the profound impact these conditions can have on ones life, so welcome - and know that one of the bravest things you can do is begin this journey.
Are you tired of avoiding? Do you feel the need to perform frustrating rituals in an endless cycle to get rid of anxiety, uncertainty and even sensitivities to sounds? Are you stuck with unwanted thoughts and physical sensations? Do you feel like your world is getting smaller as your emotions take over? I'm Eliyahu Serkez, and throughout my career, I have specialized and dedicated myself to treating those who are trapped by anxiety, OCD and Misophonia. I did this because I understand the profound impact these conditions can have on ones life, so welcome - and know that one of the bravest things you can do is begin this journey.
(973) 791-4627 View (973) 791-4627
Photo of Robert Galarowicz - Holistic Naturopathic Healing & Energy Psychology, PhD, ND
Holistic Naturopathic Healing & Energy Psychology
PhD, ND
Verified Verified
Ramsey, NJ 07446
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 Leah Rosen, MS, LAC, Counselor
Leah Rosen
Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
Ramsey, NJ 07446
My ideal client is someone facing challenges like anxiety, depression, mood disorders, personality disorders, or relationship issues. They may be dealing with life transitions, trauma, grief, family conflict, or substance use. They seek meaningful, positive change and are motivated to improve their mental health. They want a compassionate, person-centered therapist who can guide them through their journey with tailored support, helping them achieve self-actualization and well-being.
My ideal client is someone facing challenges like anxiety, depression, mood disorders, personality disorders, or relationship issues. They may be dealing with life transitions, trauma, grief, family conflict, or substance use. They seek meaningful, positive change and are motivated to improve their mental health. They want a compassionate, person-centered therapist who can guide them through their journey with tailored support, helping them achieve self-actualization and well-being.
(908) 332-0680 View (908) 332-0680
Photo of Vanessa Gourdine - Specialized Therapy Associates, PsyD, APN-C, CFMP, Psychologist
Specialized Therapy Associates
Psychologist, PsyD, APN-C, CFMP
Verified Verified
Ramsey, NJ 07446
Where special concerns deserve special care, Specialized Therapy Associates has been in operation since 1994 with a staff of psychologists, psychiatrists, and therapists in Hackensack, Ramsey, Short Hills, & Fort Lee. STA provides the full range of psychological services: individual, couples, family & group therapy. We also provide a full range of psychological testing services for all age ranges.STA offers specialized programs which includes but not limited to eating disorders, substance abuse, trauma, academic success, child and parenting. We are staffed with Board certified adult & child psychiatrists & psychiatric nurse practitioners, clinical social workers, licensed clinical alcohol & drug counselors & licensed professional counselors.
Where special concerns deserve special care, Specialized Therapy Associates has been in operation since 1994 with a staff of psychologists, psychiatrists, and therapists in Hackensack, Ramsey, Short Hills, & Fort Lee. STA provides the full range of psychological services: individual, couples, family & group therapy. We also provide a full range of psychological testing services for all age ranges.STA offers specialized programs which includes but not limited to eating disorders, substance abuse, trauma, academic success, child and parenting. We are staffed with Board certified adult & child psychiatrists & psychiatric nurse practitioners, clinical social workers, licensed clinical alcohol & drug counselors & licensed professional counselors.
(201) 366-7096 View (201) 366-7096
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
Ramsey, NJ 07446
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
1
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.