Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in McMinnville, OR

Photo of Raina Cole McRae, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Raina Cole McRae
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
McMinnville, OR 97128  (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.
(503) 386-0950 View (503) 386-0950
Photo of Tyler Case, LPC, CADC II, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tyler Case
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CADC II
Verified Verified
McMinnville, OR 97128
Waitlist for new clients
No one makes it through life without picking up stuff that weighs us down or holds us back. Counseling gives us the chance to examine why we're carrying this stuff around and how to let go of it. By using Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy along with a mixture of therapeutic styles, we will work together to uncover the thoughts and beliefs that drive your emotions and behaviors so that you can move forward in your life with confidence. My associates and I work with adults of all ages and with any level of mental health goals or concerns.
No one makes it through life without picking up stuff that weighs us down or holds us back. Counseling gives us the chance to examine why we're carrying this stuff around and how to let go of it. By using Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy along with a mixture of therapeutic styles, we will work together to uncover the thoughts and beliefs that drive your emotions and behaviors so that you can move forward in your life with confidence. My associates and I work with adults of all ages and with any level of mental health goals or concerns.
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Photo of Airka Ramirez, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Airka Ramirez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McMinnville, OR 97128  (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.
(971) 290-2366 View (971) 290-2366
Photo of Laura Gaudette, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Gaudette
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
McMinnville, OR 97128
I love working with people who are aware they are suffering and are ready to engage in the deep and meaningful process of healing. The soul of my work is person-centered and attachment-focused. This means that I respect and honor each person's individual process and trust that they will share the vulnerable parts of themselves when they are ready and feel safe to do so, and that I am committed both as a person and as a therapist to listen to what they share with openness, authenticity, and a deep desire to understand.
I love working with people who are aware they are suffering and are ready to engage in the deep and meaningful process of healing. The soul of my work is person-centered and attachment-focused. This means that I respect and honor each person's individual process and trust that they will share the vulnerable parts of themselves when they are ready and feel safe to do so, and that I am committed both as a person and as a therapist to listen to what they share with openness, authenticity, and a deep desire to understand.
(971) 366-3178 View (971) 366-3178
Photo of Tarin L Bickford - Bickford Therapy, LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bickford Therapy, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
McMinnville, OR 97128  (Online Only)
Thanks for taking the time to read my profile! My name is Tarin Bickford and I've been a clinical social worker for more than two decades. My approach to therapy is multi-faceted and I incorporate many modalities into my work (although I primarily use cognitive behavioral, acceptance and commitment and solution-focused therapy).
Thanks for taking the time to read my profile! My name is Tarin Bickford and I've been a clinical social worker for more than two decades. My approach to therapy is multi-faceted and I incorporate many modalities into my work (although I primarily use cognitive behavioral, acceptance and commitment and solution-focused therapy).
(503) 662-9447 View (503) 662-9447
Photo of Cindy L. Nisly - Cindy L. Nisly Being Well Counseling, LLC , MA, MFT, Assoc, Pre-Licensed Professional
Cindy L. Nisly Being Well Counseling, LLC
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MFT, Assoc
Verified Verified
McMinnville, OR 97128
Accepting New Clients. BEING WELL…knowing who you are as an individual. Life brings experiences that are difficult to adjust and live peacefully. It is common to have worries in relationships, work/life balance, stressful experiences, and emotional difficulties, past or current. These worries lead to change in mood, low self-worth, and provoke negative thinking. My approach focuses on walking along beside you and focusing on your individual strengths to move through a difficult time in your life. In addition to walking along beside you, you will gain insight and awareness of your current coping skills.
Accepting New Clients. BEING WELL…knowing who you are as an individual. Life brings experiences that are difficult to adjust and live peacefully. It is common to have worries in relationships, work/life balance, stressful experiences, and emotional difficulties, past or current. These worries lead to change in mood, low self-worth, and provoke negative thinking. My approach focuses on walking along beside you and focusing on your individual strengths to move through a difficult time in your life. In addition to walking along beside you, you will gain insight and awareness of your current coping skills.
(971) 247-3297 View (971) 247-3297
Photo of Sarah J Trueax, LCSW, CADC-II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah J Trueax
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC-II
Verified Verified
McMinnville, OR 97128
As a dedicated mental health therapist, I am committed to providing compassionate and effective support to your individual challenges, to help you reach your goals, and celebrate successes with you. I particularly enjoy helping people heal from trauma, build resiliency, and grow self-confidence. The clients I work with want to learn how to better regulate their emotions, self-validate, and gain insight into stuck patterns and behaviors so they can move forward with authenticity and inner strength.
As a dedicated mental health therapist, I am committed to providing compassionate and effective support to your individual challenges, to help you reach your goals, and celebrate successes with you. I particularly enjoy helping people heal from trauma, build resiliency, and grow self-confidence. The clients I work with want to learn how to better regulate their emotions, self-validate, and gain insight into stuck patterns and behaviors so they can move forward with authenticity and inner strength.
(971) 299-6555 View (971) 299-6555
Photo of Brett Maffett, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brett Maffett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
McMinnville, OR 97128  (Online Only)
You can take control of your life. You don't have to live a life suffering from trauma or addiction. You don't have to feel isolated or scared anymore. Finding the right therapist to start your journey isn't easy. I have a wide range of treatment options awaiting anyone willing to take the first steps towards a new start.
You can take control of your life. You don't have to live a life suffering from trauma or addiction. You don't have to feel isolated or scared anymore. Finding the right therapist to start your journey isn't easy. I have a wide range of treatment options awaiting anyone willing to take the first steps towards a new start.
(503) 755-9502 View (503) 755-9502
Photo of Heather Alison Shea, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heather Alison Shea
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McMinnville, OR 97128
Life can be overwhelming and challenging at times, often leaving us lost or stuck as to how to move forward. My hope is to build a therapeutic relationship to understand your unique needs so that I can best support you in moving towards your desired goals. My job is to help you recognize the negative thinking patterns or behaviors that keep you stuck. Many of these challenges can cause the self-sabotaging behaviors leading to addiction or symptoms that interfere with reaching your goals. Addiction, trauma and shame often go hand in hand increasing the difficulty people have in navigating the challenges of life.
Life can be overwhelming and challenging at times, often leaving us lost or stuck as to how to move forward. My hope is to build a therapeutic relationship to understand your unique needs so that I can best support you in moving towards your desired goals. My job is to help you recognize the negative thinking patterns or behaviors that keep you stuck. Many of these challenges can cause the self-sabotaging behaviors leading to addiction or symptoms that interfere with reaching your goals. Addiction, trauma and shame often go hand in hand increasing the difficulty people have in navigating the challenges of life.
(503) 616-7283 View (503) 616-7283
Photo of Gail Quenneville - Gail Quenneville, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gail Quenneville, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McMinnville, OR 97128  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am practicing via telehealth. I am committed to helping individuals, families, businesses, communities move forward. I bring 40+ years of clinical experience which includes work with combat, childhood and complex PTSD and trauma including Holocaust survivors. I have been recognized by The Southern Poverty Law Center for contributions to promote justice. I work with cancer patients and their families as a member of the Association of Oncology Social Workers. Psychotherapy with trauma survivors has helped clients lead productive and happier lives despite strife and adversity.
I am practicing via telehealth. I am committed to helping individuals, families, businesses, communities move forward. I bring 40+ years of clinical experience which includes work with combat, childhood and complex PTSD and trauma including Holocaust survivors. I have been recognized by The Southern Poverty Law Center for contributions to promote justice. I work with cancer patients and their families as a member of the Association of Oncology Social Workers. Psychotherapy with trauma survivors has helped clients lead productive and happier lives despite strife and adversity.
(302) 604-3414 View (302) 604-3414

Online Therapists

Photo of Sarah Lenhart - Selah Counseling & Wellness, LPC, NCC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Selah Counseling & Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Springfield, OR 97477
Areas of Specialization: Supporting Children, Teens, Adults, Couples & Families to overcome Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Eating Disorders, OCD, ADHD, Borderline Personality, Low Self-Esteem, Life Transitions, Marital & Couples, Divorce, Substance Abuse, PTSD/Trauma, Stress, Coping Skills, School Stress, Parenting Support & More.
Are you feeling lost and in need of an advocate and partner to reach your goals? Depression or anxiety crippling your quality of life? Feeling broken from trauma? Selah Counseling & Wellness provides child, teen and adult therapy as well as couples and family therapy for ages 4 - 65+ years of age. Selah creates a space for holistic healing, with the opportunity to integrate mental and physical health with our partner Bryce Family Medicine for a full mind-heart-body union.
Areas of Specialization: Supporting Children, Teens, Adults, Couples & Families to overcome Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Eating Disorders, OCD, ADHD, Borderline Personality, Low Self-Esteem, Life Transitions, Marital & Couples, Divorce, Substance Abuse, PTSD/Trauma, Stress, Coping Skills, School Stress, Parenting Support & More.
Are you feeling lost and in need of an advocate and partner to reach your goals? Depression or anxiety crippling your quality of life? Feeling broken from trauma? Selah Counseling & Wellness provides child, teen and adult therapy as well as couples and family therapy for ages 4 - 65+ years of age. Selah creates a space for holistic healing, with the opportunity to integrate mental and physical health with our partner Bryce Family Medicine for a full mind-heart-body union.
(541) 423-2633 View (541) 423-2633
Photo of Katelyn Bessette, LPC, CADCIII, Licensed Professional Counselor
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.
(971) 290-1967 View (971) 290-1967
Photo of Melissa Burr, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
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.
(971) 257-8007 View (971) 257-8007
Photo of Lisa Dykstra Dba Cereus Therapy, MS MFT, QMHP, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisa Dykstra Dba Cereus Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS MFT, QMHP, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Eugene, OR 97401
Waitlist for new clients
PTSD, CPTSD, DID, Borderline Personality Disorder, Sexual Exploitation, Intersectionality, Client-Centered, Valuing Diversity, Sex Positive, Anti-Ableist, Attachment Theory, Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Experiential, Narrative, Mindfulness, DBT, CBT, Yoga Nidra Certified and foundational training in Trauma-informed Yoga.
When you work with me, you will experience my passion for supporting you, and my commitment to creating a warm, safe, and confidential environment where you can express yourself without fear of judgment. I am here to help you define what it means to be your "authentic" self. I want to help you navigate how to overcome life challenges in order to live the life you truly desire. This is a place to experience respect and compassion and to meet your unique health and wellness needs.
PTSD, CPTSD, DID, Borderline Personality Disorder, Sexual Exploitation, Intersectionality, Client-Centered, Valuing Diversity, Sex Positive, Anti-Ableist, Attachment Theory, Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Experiential, Narrative, Mindfulness, DBT, CBT, Yoga Nidra Certified and foundational training in Trauma-informed Yoga.
When you work with me, you will experience my passion for supporting you, and my commitment to creating a warm, safe, and confidential environment where you can express yourself without fear of judgment. I am here to help you define what it means to be your "authentic" self. I want to help you navigate how to overcome life challenges in order to live the life you truly desire. This is a place to experience respect and compassion and to meet your unique health and wellness needs.
(541) 275-9258 View (541) 275-9258
Photo of Stefanie A Dean, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stefanie A Dean
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97302
I have over 17 years experience working in the field of counseling and have extensive experience helping clients with relationship struggles, trauma, domestic violence, BPD, addictions, depression, and anxiety.
When reaching out for professional support, I believe that finding the best fit is one of the most crucial elements to your success. You need to find someone who hears and understands you and your individual needs, as well as helps you feel safe and supported. My approach to counseling leans strongly on these beliefs and I work hard to understand my clients, prior to "changing" them. I also strongly believe that YOU are the expert of your life and I therefore take a collaborative approach to counseling, empowering and guiding you to make the necessary changes in your life.
I have over 17 years experience working in the field of counseling and have extensive experience helping clients with relationship struggles, trauma, domestic violence, BPD, addictions, depression, and anxiety.
When reaching out for professional support, I believe that finding the best fit is one of the most crucial elements to your success. You need to find someone who hears and understands you and your individual needs, as well as helps you feel safe and supported. My approach to counseling leans strongly on these beliefs and I work hard to understand my clients, prior to "changing" them. I also strongly believe that YOU are the expert of your life and I therefore take a collaborative approach to counseling, empowering and guiding you to make the necessary changes in your life.
(503) 994-5381 View (503) 994-5381
Photo of Steve Han, LPC-A, MEd
Steve Han
Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A, MEd
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209  (Online Only)
I guide clients experiencing symptoms of childhood trauma toward healthier relationships with their emotions & feelings. Symptoms may include, but are not limited to, anxiety, intrusive & painful memories, dissociative responses & episodes, negative thoughts about self, numbness, guilt & shame, negative thoughts about others, not ever feeling good enough, attachment issues & difficulty with emotional regulation. Diagnoses may include, but are not limited to, complex trauma, depression, generalized anxiety disorder, & borderline personality disorder.
I guide clients experiencing symptoms of childhood trauma toward healthier relationships with their emotions & feelings. Symptoms may include, but are not limited to, anxiety, intrusive & painful memories, dissociative responses & episodes, negative thoughts about self, numbness, guilt & shame, negative thoughts about others, not ever feeling good enough, attachment issues & difficulty with emotional regulation. Diagnoses may include, but are not limited to, complex trauma, depression, generalized anxiety disorder, & borderline personality disorder.
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Photo of Corey Connare, CSWA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Corey Connare
Pre-Licensed Professional, CSWA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
Many people come to me feeling stuck, overwhelmed by trauma, anxiety, or navigating the challenges of borderline personality disorder. Whether it's emotional turbulence, the deep wounds of trauma, or difficulty with life transitions, I provide a supportive and nonjudgmental space to explore, heal, and grow. Anxiety, depression, and nagging intrusive thoughts can cause significant disruptions at home, work, and socially, or they may even be things you manage well enough that others don't know about. We will work to lessen these burdens and improve the quality of your life.
Many people come to me feeling stuck, overwhelmed by trauma, anxiety, or navigating the challenges of borderline personality disorder. Whether it's emotional turbulence, the deep wounds of trauma, or difficulty with life transitions, I provide a supportive and nonjudgmental space to explore, heal, and grow. Anxiety, depression, and nagging intrusive thoughts can cause significant disruptions at home, work, and socially, or they may even be things you manage well enough that others don't know about. We will work to lessen these burdens and improve the quality of your life.
(503) 455-7479 View (503) 455-7479
Photo of Mamta Bhargava, MSc, LPC, NCC, CCH, Counselor
Mamta Bhargava
Counselor, MSc, LPC, NCC, CCH
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Beaverton, OR 97003  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona, Oregon, and Florida ( telehealth provider), with extensive experience working with individuals suffering from PTSD & trauma, depression, anxiety, Borderline Personality Disorder, parenting, self esteem issues, and marital issues.
I believe in the innate power in us to evolve and resolve. Sometimes when we are faced with challenging situations, our perspectives become hazy and we are unable to connect with our selves. I use eclectic and holistic modes of therapy to help people connect with their inner selves to move on in their lives and reach their full potential. I am trained in DBT, CBT, ACT and am also a Certified EMDR provider. I also completed an externship in Emotionally focussed Therapy for Couples as positive relationships are imperative for our emotional, mental health.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona, Oregon, and Florida ( telehealth provider), with extensive experience working with individuals suffering from PTSD & trauma, depression, anxiety, Borderline Personality Disorder, parenting, self esteem issues, and marital issues.
I believe in the innate power in us to evolve and resolve. Sometimes when we are faced with challenging situations, our perspectives become hazy and we are unable to connect with our selves. I use eclectic and holistic modes of therapy to help people connect with their inner selves to move on in their lives and reach their full potential. I am trained in DBT, CBT, ACT and am also a Certified EMDR provider. I also completed an externship in Emotionally focussed Therapy for Couples as positive relationships are imperative for our emotional, mental health.
(480) 725-7499 View (480) 725-7499
Photo of Casey Jansen, M ED, CADC II
Casey Jansen
Professional Counselor Associate, M ED, CADC II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97317
I also primarily work with clients experiencing anxiety, adjustment concerns, BPD, PTSD, and other related trauma diagnosis.
I enjoy working with clients from all different backgrounds who are willing to make a change in their life. Counseling can be hard at times, yet very rewarding, and it is important to find the right counselor for you. I practice from a primarily Solution Focused background while including techniques from CBT, REBT, and Adlerian theory. I aim to bring honesty, authenticity, and reliability into each session.
I also primarily work with clients experiencing anxiety, adjustment concerns, BPD, PTSD, and other related trauma diagnosis.
I enjoy working with clients from all different backgrounds who are willing to make a change in their life. Counseling can be hard at times, yet very rewarding, and it is important to find the right counselor for you. I practice from a primarily Solution Focused background while including techniques from CBT, REBT, and Adlerian theory. I aim to bring honesty, authenticity, and reliability into each session.
(503) 694-3598 View (503) 694-3598
Photo of Ghesline Marie DePedro, MA, PCA, QMHP
Ghesline Marie DePedro
Professional Counselor Associate, MA, PCA, QMHP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
It is my honor, privilege, and passion to provide therapy to individuals looking to further their journey in wellness. It is key for clients to feel safe and understood in sessions, which is why I prioritized a trauma-informed approach and treat clients as experts on themselves. I cater sessions to the needs of each client. Areas of Focus: anxiety, depression, OCD, borderline personality, trauma, bipolar, obsessional thoughts/behaviors, and intrusive thoughts. I provide evidence-based therapy including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
It is my honor, privilege, and passion to provide therapy to individuals looking to further their journey in wellness. It is key for clients to feel safe and understood in sessions, which is why I prioritized a trauma-informed approach and treat clients as experts on themselves. I cater sessions to the needs of each client. Areas of Focus: anxiety, depression, OCD, borderline personality, trauma, bipolar, obsessional thoughts/behaviors, and intrusive thoughts. I provide evidence-based therapy including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
(503) 727-3782 View (503) 727-3782

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.