Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in Portland, OR

Photo of Amanda Salmick, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Salmick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97206  (Online Only)
I have a passion for working with individuals who are living with symptoms of trauma, PTSD, C-PTSD, borderline personality disorder, anxiety, and depression. You may be struggling with emotion regulation, feeling stuck, persistanly sad, or hopeless. I use a variety of evidence based modailites in our sessions together to include DBT, IFS, and Brainspotting. I have completed the IFS Institute's level 1 training with level 2 to be completed in November 2024, and am a certified Brainspotting practitioner. My counseling style infuses kindness, humor, and compassion to best support you in our sessions together.
I have a passion for working with individuals who are living with symptoms of trauma, PTSD, C-PTSD, borderline personality disorder, anxiety, and depression. You may be struggling with emotion regulation, feeling stuck, persistanly sad, or hopeless. I use a variety of evidence based modailites in our sessions together to include DBT, IFS, and Brainspotting. I have completed the IFS Institute's level 1 training with level 2 to be completed in November 2024, and am a certified Brainspotting practitioner. My counseling style infuses kindness, humor, and compassion to best support you in our sessions together.
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Photo of Melissa Burr, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melissa Burr
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97203  (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
Portland, OR 97201
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 Pam Snyder, LCSW, ACT, BC-TMH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pam Snyder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACT, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97229  (Online Only)
I work with adult children of narcissistic, borderline and emotionally immature parents.
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.
I work with adult children of narcissistic, borderline and emotionally immature parents.
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.
(720) 838-4531 View (720) 838-4531
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
Photo of Christopher Lee Creaturo, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
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!
(458) 217-6034 View (458) 217-6034
Photo of Nicole Lapotin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Lapotin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97230
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.
(971) 302-2538 View (971) 302-2538
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 Torie Wiksell, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
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!
(360) 327-8525 View (360) 327-8525
Photo of Mamta Bhargava, MSc, LPC, NCC, CCH, Counselor
Mamta Bhargava
Counselor, MSc, LPC, NCC, CCH
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97239  (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 Emma Nelson, PhD, Limited Licensed Psychologist
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.
(646) 859-0283 View (646) 859-0283
Photo of Riva Stoudt, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Riva Stoudt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
Waitlist for new clients
You've finally decided: you're tired of repeating the patterns that leave you feeling stuck, frustrated and disconnected. Sure - you've done well for yourself in a lot of ways. But then something happened that shook it all up. Maybe it was having a kid. Maybe it was a divorce...or a second divorce. Or maybe you just woke up one day with the realization that you're not showing up as who you want to be in the world, and you don't have endless time in front of you to figure it all out anymore. Wherever you're at right now, you know you're not going to get where you want to be by doing the same old shit you've always done.
You've finally decided: you're tired of repeating the patterns that leave you feeling stuck, frustrated and disconnected. Sure - you've done well for yourself in a lot of ways. But then something happened that shook it all up. Maybe it was having a kid. Maybe it was a divorce...or a second divorce. Or maybe you just woke up one day with the realization that you're not showing up as who you want to be in the world, and you don't have endless time in front of you to figure it all out anymore. Wherever you're at right now, you know you're not going to get where you want to be by doing the same old shit you've always done.
(971) 319-9593 View (971) 319-9593
Photo of Carol L Penn, PhD, Psychologist
Carol L Penn
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
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.
(503) 694-4189 View (503) 694-4189
Photo of Kathryn Valero, MA, LMHC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
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.
(360) 727-0596 View (360) 727-0596
Photo of Steve Stolzoff, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Steve Stolzoff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
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.
(503) 461-8369 View (503) 461-8369
Photo of Danielle LaBruzzo, LPC, NBCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Danielle LaBruzzo
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
I have been in practice for 15+ years. I draw on my clinical experience to help clients learn skills to enhance their quality of life, break old patterns, learn effective limit setting, and accept themselves in order to move past unprocessed shame to live in the present moment. I am effective at getting to the heart of the issue with my clients and using evidence-based practices to provide structured, concrete skill building, as well as to create a validating environment. I would describe my therapeutic style as compassionate, understanding and efficient.
I have been in practice for 15+ years. I draw on my clinical experience to help clients learn skills to enhance their quality of life, break old patterns, learn effective limit setting, and accept themselves in order to move past unprocessed shame to live in the present moment. I am effective at getting to the heart of the issue with my clients and using evidence-based practices to provide structured, concrete skill building, as well as to create a validating environment. I would describe my therapeutic style as compassionate, understanding and efficient.
(503) 386-4352 View (503) 386-4352
Photo of Rayna L Jenks - Rayna L Jenks, LCSW, LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rayna L Jenks, LCSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97225  (Online Only)
Please Note: Practice is currently full I approach therapy from a practical perspective: part of our work together will be to help you determine what changes you want to make, and get started with some practical actions (yes, homework!). Most of my clients can expect to start seeing improvement within 2-3 sessions, and sometimes even after the first session. My work is collaborative with you, in other words, we are a team toward the goal of finding the wellness within you.
Please Note: Practice is currently full I approach therapy from a practical perspective: part of our work together will be to help you determine what changes you want to make, and get started with some practical actions (yes, homework!). Most of my clients can expect to start seeing improvement within 2-3 sessions, and sometimes even after the first session. My work is collaborative with you, in other words, we are a team toward the goal of finding the wellness within you.
(503) 783-8430 View (503) 783-8430
Photo of Alicia L Paz, MA
Alicia L Paz
MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Enrollment for my virtual DBT group is open, and our next cohort starts on Nov 4th. 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 Nov 4th. 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.
(503) 461-0547 View (503) 461-0547
Photo of Tracy Jendritza, PsyD, DBT-LBC, Psychologist
Tracy Jendritza
Psychologist, PsyD, DBT-LBC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219
I firmly believe that growth has two paths. To truly flourish, one must balance a desire for change with a true willingness to accept oneselve for who you are. A treatment that embraces this idea is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and it's the core philosophy I use with my patients every day. In treatment, DBT concepts focus on changing things that are getting in the way of living the life you want, while accepting yourself unconditionally. The focus is to develop a life worth living. My program offers a full finality DBT which includes individual therapy, group skills training, and phone consultation.
I firmly believe that growth has two paths. To truly flourish, one must balance a desire for change with a true willingness to accept oneselve for who you are. A treatment that embraces this idea is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and it's the core philosophy I use with my patients every day. In treatment, DBT concepts focus on changing things that are getting in the way of living the life you want, while accepting yourself unconditionally. The focus is to develop a life worth living. My program offers a full finality DBT which includes individual therapy, group skills training, and phone consultation.
(503) 847-9312 View (503) 847-9312
Photo of Keziah Striplin, MSW, CSWA
Keziah Striplin
Clinical Social Work Associate, MSW, CSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
You might be struggling with the heavy impact of anxiety, depression, or unresolved trauma. Maybe the constant worry, racing thoughts, or deep sadness you’re experiencing make it hard to relax, focus, or fully engage with the people and activities you once enjoyed. You could be feeling disconnected from yourself and others, stuck in patterns that no longer serve you and wondering if healing is truly possible. Deep down, what you really want is to find relief—to feel more at peace, grounded, and empowered to live a life that's meaningful and fulfilling. You're ready for change, and I’m here to support you in making that a reality.
You might be struggling with the heavy impact of anxiety, depression, or unresolved trauma. Maybe the constant worry, racing thoughts, or deep sadness you’re experiencing make it hard to relax, focus, or fully engage with the people and activities you once enjoyed. You could be feeling disconnected from yourself and others, stuck in patterns that no longer serve you and wondering if healing is truly possible. Deep down, what you really want is to find relief—to feel more at peace, grounded, and empowered to live a life that's meaningful and fulfilling. You're ready for change, and I’m here to support you in making that a reality.
(503) 255-8473 View (503) 255-8473
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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.