Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in Happy Valley, OR
![Photo of Dawnne Howard Professional Counselor Associate, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6b1fa7cc-bcbf-409e-be19-b78c2e665360/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dawnne Howard Professional Counselor Associate
Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Happy Valley, OR 97086 (Online Only)
My approach includes understanding that trust and rapport is important to foster a therapeutic relationship that can help facilitate the change you want to see in your life. The belief that each person is uniquely made from their specific experiences drives my passion to connect and tailor treatment to each person’s individual needs. Treatment with me includes helping you reach your goals by helping you develop the tools and skills needed to grow in confidence as you become the person you want to be. I enjoy working on topics that include but are not limited to building self-esteem and self-worth, learning to manage strong emotions.
My approach includes understanding that trust and rapport is important to foster a therapeutic relationship that can help facilitate the change you want to see in your life. The belief that each person is uniquely made from their specific experiences drives my passion to connect and tailor treatment to each person’s individual needs. Treatment with me includes helping you reach your goals by helping you develop the tools and skills needed to grow in confidence as you become the person you want to be. I enjoy working on topics that include but are not limited to building self-esteem and self-worth, learning to manage strong emotions.
![Photo of Megan Coggins - Life Discovery Counseling Services, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40b030f3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Life Discovery Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Happy Valley, OR 97015
We are a Christian counseling group that seeks to provide current and effective psychotherapy services from a Biblical perspective. We are highly trained counselors who all hold personal Christian values and principles, integrating these into each session without judgment or forcing anything on our clients. Rather, we want to provide hope and guidance through the struggles our clients present.
We are a Christian counseling group that seeks to provide current and effective psychotherapy services from a Biblical perspective. We are highly trained counselors who all hold personal Christian values and principles, integrating these into each session without judgment or forcing anything on our clients. Rather, we want to provide hope and guidance through the struggles our clients present.
![Photo of Jane Leng, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e46172a-9b85-4173-adea-0420ca603f7d/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a trauma therapist, I specialize in working with adults who suffer from the symptoms of traumatic stress or post traumatic stress disorder. The symptoms of trauma often include, panic attacks, anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, nightmares and flashbacks, lack of concentration, ADD, binge eating and negative body image. All of these symptoms may be a result of unprocessed trauma that has become stuck in the mind and the body. There is a tremendous amount of promise in mental health healing available through trauma treatment.
As a trauma therapist, I specialize in working with adults who suffer from the symptoms of traumatic stress or post traumatic stress disorder. The symptoms of trauma often include, panic attacks, anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, nightmares and flashbacks, lack of concentration, ADD, binge eating and negative body image. All of these symptoms may be a result of unprocessed trauma that has become stuck in the mind and the body. There is a tremendous amount of promise in mental health healing available through trauma treatment.
![Photo of Cary Lazara Coll, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/420b5f63-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Empowerment comes from being open to exploring your inner strength as a means of gaining insight and knowledge. I strive to provide a safe, nonjudgmental, compassionate space for self-discovery. Through the Empowerment Model I use an eclectic, client centered, and strength based approach to finding healing and growth in the midst of challenges. By exploring the origin of symptoms and how they influence thoughts and behaviors we can overcome obstacles to feeling genuine health and wellness.
Empowerment comes from being open to exploring your inner strength as a means of gaining insight and knowledge. I strive to provide a safe, nonjudgmental, compassionate space for self-discovery. Through the Empowerment Model I use an eclectic, client centered, and strength based approach to finding healing and growth in the midst of challenges. By exploring the origin of symptoms and how they influence thoughts and behaviors we can overcome obstacles to feeling genuine health and wellness.
![Photo of Airka Ramirez, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a9779d96-a8ea-4c56-8bbd-a10d40f66ba6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Airka Ramirez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Happy Valley, OR 97086 (Online Only)
I understand that everyone has the power to grow and heal, even through the toughest times. Life can be challenging, and sometimes we need support and connection to navigate these periods. My goal as a therapist is to provide you with a safe space to explore your concerns and find your path forward. Together, we will work through a collaborative relationship that fosters acceptance, connection, and hope. Our past shapes us, but it doesn’t define us. I am here to help you find healing and renewal by exploring how your past influences your present.
I understand that everyone has the power to grow and heal, even through the toughest times. Life can be challenging, and sometimes we need support and connection to navigate these periods. My goal as a therapist is to provide you with a safe space to explore your concerns and find your path forward. Together, we will work through a collaborative relationship that fosters acceptance, connection, and hope. Our past shapes us, but it doesn’t define us. I am here to help you find healing and renewal by exploring how your past influences your present.
![Photo of Christa Green, CSWA, MSW, QMHP, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/385bade3-1ac6-44b7-932a-51a30c7bf6d4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christa Green
Pre-Licensed Professional, CSWA, MSW, QMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Happy Valley, OR 97086
Not accepting new clients
I believe that therapy begins with hope. This means that change is possible and you are not stuck. I desire to both help you maintain hope and support the change process. I believe that you are capable, resilient, and worthy. This means that I operate from a strengths-based and solution-focused perspective. While it is helpful to determine the true challenge, we often tend to fixate on problems that we lose sight of the strengths and possible solutions that can help us navigate trials life brings. This also means that I desire to understand and connect with you in a way that helps you see yourself as capable and worthy.
I believe that therapy begins with hope. This means that change is possible and you are not stuck. I desire to both help you maintain hope and support the change process. I believe that you are capable, resilient, and worthy. This means that I operate from a strengths-based and solution-focused perspective. While it is helpful to determine the true challenge, we often tend to fixate on problems that we lose sight of the strengths and possible solutions that can help us navigate trials life brings. This also means that I desire to understand and connect with you in a way that helps you see yourself as capable and worthy.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Melissa Burr, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/38c3da6d-c833-4bd0-b6a3-cdb618a20492/2/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Burr
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oregon City, OR 97045 (Online Only)
I have expertise working with people diagnosed with anxiety disorders, Borderline and other mental health challenges.
I enjoy working with many types of mental health concerns and challenges, as well as folks with alternative lifestyles and identities. My approach is to help you feel supported while gaining confidence that you can improve your issues, deal with your challenges and get to the point where you don't feel like you need therapy. I believe in Feedback Informed Treatment where I check in with my clients and they let me know how I am doing so as to tailor my therapy approach to be the most effective while feeling safe.
I have expertise working with people diagnosed with anxiety disorders, Borderline and other mental health challenges.
I enjoy working with many types of mental health concerns and challenges, as well as folks with alternative lifestyles and identities. My approach is to help you feel supported while gaining confidence that you can improve your issues, deal with your challenges and get to the point where you don't feel like you need therapy. I believe in Feedback Informed Treatment where I check in with my clients and they let me know how I am doing so as to tailor my therapy approach to be the most effective while feeling safe.
![Photo of Emma Nelson, PhD, Limited Licensed Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e3568b6b-071a-4afb-a490-51c28d8550ed/2/320x400.jpeg)
Emma Nelson
Limited Licensed Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97086 (Online Only)
People who work with me are often looking for longer-term therapy, where we address deeper issues in a safe relationship, at your own pace. We may work well together if you are coping with a difficult family, relationship trouble, recurrent mental health problems (e.g. PTSD, BPD, MDD), or a life transition (e.g. grief, break-up, parenting, career change, spiritual/religious crisis). I also work with people seeking individual therapy that makes room for the big problems of our time. You may wish to explore working with me if part of your distress concerns climate change, politics, discrimination, or other collective stressors.
People who work with me are often looking for longer-term therapy, where we address deeper issues in a safe relationship, at your own pace. We may work well together if you are coping with a difficult family, relationship trouble, recurrent mental health problems (e.g. PTSD, BPD, MDD), or a life transition (e.g. grief, break-up, parenting, career change, spiritual/religious crisis). I also work with people seeking individual therapy that makes room for the big problems of our time. You may wish to explore working with me if part of your distress concerns climate change, politics, discrimination, or other collective stressors.
![Photo of Kalene Krause - Kalene Krause-Agency Accepting New Patients!, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a3e9cf44-f90e-43b1-92a7-6bb0d9ed1c5f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kalene Krause-Agency Accepting New Patients!
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97034 (Online Only)
I'm experienced working with adolescents and adults who struggle with Anxiety, Depression, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Substance Use, Borderline Personality Disorder, and a myriad of other mental health diagnoses.
My practice currently is Accepting new clients Now! It is no secret that life can be difficult, so difficult that we often lose ourselves. When was the last time you felt genuinely ‘heard’ or ‘seen’? My intention as your therapist is to create a safe, welcoming space for you to just be. I will meet you where you are in your healing journey and walk alongside you. Let’s work together to set and achieve goals for the life you want, training your brain to work with you, not against you. I am a direct, but compassionate therapist who aims to forge a therapeutic relationship built on trust and understanding.
I'm experienced working with adolescents and adults who struggle with Anxiety, Depression, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Substance Use, Borderline Personality Disorder, and a myriad of other mental health diagnoses.
My practice currently is Accepting new clients Now! It is no secret that life can be difficult, so difficult that we often lose ourselves. When was the last time you felt genuinely ‘heard’ or ‘seen’? My intention as your therapist is to create a safe, welcoming space for you to just be. I will meet you where you are in your healing journey and walk alongside you. Let’s work together to set and achieve goals for the life you want, training your brain to work with you, not against you. I am a direct, but compassionate therapist who aims to forge a therapeutic relationship built on trust and understanding.
![Photo of Pam Snyder, LCSW, ACT, BC-TMH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52d6b1f3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Pam Snyder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACT, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97035 (Online Only)
Now accepting new clients online. I work with adult children, partners and siblings of individuals with Narcissistic and Borderline Personality Disorder traits. It can be difficult to find a therapist who truly understand the impact and wounds of being raised in a home or being in a relationship with someone who has narcissistic and borderline traits. My work includes creating a healthy psychological separation, changing the negative internal messages, learning how to respond to others, creating healthy boundaries, stopping the legacy of distorted love and becoming your true and authentic self.
Now accepting new clients online. I work with adult children, partners and siblings of individuals with Narcissistic and Borderline Personality Disorder traits. It can be difficult to find a therapist who truly understand the impact and wounds of being raised in a home or being in a relationship with someone who has narcissistic and borderline traits. My work includes creating a healthy psychological separation, changing the negative internal messages, learning how to respond to others, creating healthy boundaries, stopping the legacy of distorted love and becoming your true and authentic self.
![Photo of Torie Wiksell, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cd587453-99e1-411b-9d0d-b0cd6ca0121f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Torie Wiksell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97239 (Online Only)
I'm passionate about helping my clients break toxic patterns and set healthier boundaries. I specialize in working with the adult children of parents with borderline and narcissistic personality disorders in my practice. Additionally, I love to work with clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and OCD. My style is supportive, honest, and direct with a bit of humor sprinkled in. I love being a therapist, but I'm definitely not the perfect therapist for everyone. I'm straightforward, bubbly, and have been known to use profanity on occasion to emphasize a point!
I'm passionate about helping my clients break toxic patterns and set healthier boundaries. I specialize in working with the adult children of parents with borderline and narcissistic personality disorders in my practice. Additionally, I love to work with clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and OCD. My style is supportive, honest, and direct with a bit of humor sprinkled in. I love being a therapist, but I'm definitely not the perfect therapist for everyone. I'm straightforward, bubbly, and have been known to use profanity on occasion to emphasize a point!
![Photo of Nicole Lapotin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f6deeae-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am passionate about supporting people as they grow into their best selves, learn to be seen for who they are rather than what they look like, and strive to accept imperfections and pain with greater self-compassion. I treat eating disorders (binge eating, bulimia, anorexia, exercise addiction), anxiety, depression, traits of borderline personality, interpersonal trauma, and relationship problems in families and couples. I believe that a collaborative and accepting relationship is needed for people to change and heal.
I am passionate about supporting people as they grow into their best selves, learn to be seen for who they are rather than what they look like, and strive to accept imperfections and pain with greater self-compassion. I treat eating disorders (binge eating, bulimia, anorexia, exercise addiction), anxiety, depression, traits of borderline personality, interpersonal trauma, and relationship problems in families and couples. I believe that a collaborative and accepting relationship is needed for people to change and heal.
![Photo of Katelyn Bessette, LPC, CADCIII, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/004d401d-0370-4aee-9146-8d797a86357b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Katelyn Bessette
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CADCIII
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202 (Online Only)
Are you navigating the complexities of your relationships and sexuality, whether monogamous, non-monogamous, or exploring kink? I specialize in sex therapy, providing a kink-friendly and non-judgmental space for individuals and couples. My practice is dedicated to supporting you in your unique journey. With extensive experience in working with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, borderline personality disorder, and trauma, I am equipped to help you face and overcome these challenges. I understand that each person's path to healing and growth is unique, and I strive to meet you where you are in your process.
Are you navigating the complexities of your relationships and sexuality, whether monogamous, non-monogamous, or exploring kink? I specialize in sex therapy, providing a kink-friendly and non-judgmental space for individuals and couples. My practice is dedicated to supporting you in your unique journey. With extensive experience in working with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, borderline personality disorder, and trauma, I am equipped to help you face and overcome these challenges. I understand that each person's path to healing and growth is unique, and I strive to meet you where you are in your process.
![Photo of Christopher Lee Creaturo, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/70c88255-558a-491d-a96c-f685b6b9ade6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christopher Lee Creaturo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205 (Online Only)
I specialize in techniques of EMDR for trauma, Internal Family Systems for meeting and healing our exiled parts, Mentalization Based Therapy for Borderline Personality Disorder, Jungian techniques such as dreamwork, and Attachment-informed strategies to improve relationships.
I look for clients that are serious about change, tired of the dead ends and ready to step into a new life path as their best selves. My practice offers tools for trauma, depression, anxiety, and also works to progress life's bigger picture, and aid the search for direction and purpose that we often feel is missing. This toolset includes EMDR and Internal Family Systems, as well the creation of a healing space to reflect. We can bring about hope to the stuck parts of our worlds, and gain an edge to finally be fully present in our own lives and relationships again. Email is preferred to take the next step and see if we fit!
I specialize in techniques of EMDR for trauma, Internal Family Systems for meeting and healing our exiled parts, Mentalization Based Therapy for Borderline Personality Disorder, Jungian techniques such as dreamwork, and Attachment-informed strategies to improve relationships.
I look for clients that are serious about change, tired of the dead ends and ready to step into a new life path as their best selves. My practice offers tools for trauma, depression, anxiety, and also works to progress life's bigger picture, and aid the search for direction and purpose that we often feel is missing. This toolset includes EMDR and Internal Family Systems, as well the creation of a healing space to reflect. We can bring about hope to the stuck parts of our worlds, and gain an edge to finally be fully present in our own lives and relationships again. Email is preferred to take the next step and see if we fit!
![Photo of Raina Cole McRae, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fa58010b-2c3a-4a29-af26-6365f6c9f147/1/320x400.jpeg)
Raina Cole McRae
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97086 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that everyone has the basic human rights for self-development which include the right to autonomy, self-care, and healthy relationships. I uphold this belief by listening actively to the goals of my client and assisting them to achieve their greatest potential for mental wellness through a therapeutic approach in which I blend adaptive belief strengthening, challenging negative core beliefs, psychoeducation, skills training, utilization of natural supports, and supportive reflection and validation.
I believe that everyone has the basic human rights for self-development which include the right to autonomy, self-care, and healthy relationships. I uphold this belief by listening actively to the goals of my client and assisting them to achieve their greatest potential for mental wellness through a therapeutic approach in which I blend adaptive belief strengthening, challenging negative core beliefs, psychoeducation, skills training, utilization of natural supports, and supportive reflection and validation.
![Photo of Kathryn Valero, MA, LMHC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b78ac70-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kathryn Valero
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202 (Online Only)
Do you experience intense and unmanageable emotions? Do you often find yourself acting impulsively and engaging in self-defeating behaviors? Does it seem like you are simply surviving the journey of life rather than enjoying it? Change is possible! I am glad you are interested in counseling with me and I look forward to hearing your story. Through therapy I can help you learn new ways to cope with current difficulties, as well as heal old wounds. I will strive to help you discover your own inner strength and become your best self.
Do you experience intense and unmanageable emotions? Do you often find yourself acting impulsively and engaging in self-defeating behaviors? Does it seem like you are simply surviving the journey of life rather than enjoying it? Change is possible! I am glad you are interested in counseling with me and I look forward to hearing your story. Through therapy I can help you learn new ways to cope with current difficulties, as well as heal old wounds. I will strive to help you discover your own inner strength and become your best self.
![Photo of Steve Stolzoff, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/93d65509-b671-43ca-8e8a-099ed3f46dd4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Clients - Telehealth/Virtual/In-person. I am a licensed social worker in Oregon with a background in community mental health, co-occurring problems, crisis response, sports performance, and the navigation of complex human emotions. As a licensed therapist in Oregon since 2008, my experiences assisting individuals, couples, and families from all walks of life from the childhood/teenage years through older adulthood.
Accepting New Clients - Telehealth/Virtual/In-person. I am a licensed social worker in Oregon with a background in community mental health, co-occurring problems, crisis response, sports performance, and the navigation of complex human emotions. As a licensed therapist in Oregon since 2008, my experiences assisting individuals, couples, and families from all walks of life from the childhood/teenage years through older adulthood.
![Photo of Alicia L Paz, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e1d0023-52fd-4356-bb86-97847fbfafd4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Enrollment for my virtual DBT group is open, and our next cohort starts on Aug 12th. Our group includes a weekly 75-minute DBT group, monthly 30-minute individual session with myself, a custom workbook, and support from peers and professionals in our community site. My goal is to assist clients in learning and utilizing Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) skills in their daily lives. DBT can help with mental health, relationship, and career issues. I work with people from all backgrounds to celebrate their success.
Enrollment for my virtual DBT group is open, and our next cohort starts on Aug 12th. Our group includes a weekly 75-minute DBT group, monthly 30-minute individual session with myself, a custom workbook, and support from peers and professionals in our community site. My goal is to assist clients in learning and utilizing Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) skills in their daily lives. DBT can help with mental health, relationship, and career issues. I work with people from all backgrounds to celebrate their success.
![Photo of Corey Connare, CSWA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4edae6f6-ba8e-48ec-b3b5-61fb286a3eb8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hey! I’m Corey and I am welcoming new clients. If you're grappling with how to feel better, navigate relationships, or work through tough times, I'm here to offer support. Whether you're looking to strengthen your connection with yourself, improve emotional flexibility, or regain motivation and inspiration, we can work on that together. Let's have a conversation and figure out practical steps to make positive changes in your life.
Hey! I’m Corey and I am welcoming new clients. If you're grappling with how to feel better, navigate relationships, or work through tough times, I'm here to offer support. Whether you're looking to strengthen your connection with yourself, improve emotional flexibility, or regain motivation and inspiration, we can work on that together. Let's have a conversation and figure out practical steps to make positive changes in your life.
![Photo of Carol L Penn, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec9e7503-23b0-4910-884f-06787ce37af2/4/320x400.jpeg)
I am a clinical psychologist, licensed since 1986. My husband and I moved to Portland recently, and are enjoying the energy and cultural richness of the city. I enjoy traveling, yoga, jogging, and of course visiting our grandchildren. I particularly enjoy working with people who feel "stuck" and are interested in developing insight into the roots of the issues which keep them from moving forward in their lives; however, I appreciate the unique needs of each individual and am flexible in meeting their needs.
I am a clinical psychologist, licensed since 1986. My husband and I moved to Portland recently, and are enjoying the energy and cultural richness of the city. I enjoy traveling, yoga, jogging, and of course visiting our grandchildren. I particularly enjoy working with people who feel "stuck" and are interested in developing insight into the roots of the issues which keep them from moving forward in their lives; however, I appreciate the unique needs of each individual and am flexible in meeting their needs.
See more therapy options for Happy Valley
Nearby Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists Searches for Happy Valley
- Aloha
- Beaverton
- Clackamas
- Gresham
- Lake Oswego
- Milwaukie
- Oregon City
- Portland
- Tigard
- Tualatin
- West Linn
- Wilsonville
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.