Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in Tualatin, OR

Photo of Dr. Nicole La Verne, PsyD, LPC, MAC, CADCIII, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Nicole La Verne
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC, MAC, CADCIII, ACS
Verified Verified
Tualatin, OR 97062
Is life becoming challenging, overwhelming, confusing, unfair, and more? I understand! I have over 28 years of experience supporting people struggling with a variety of issues - depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma & PTSD, grief & loss, life changes, abuse, and more. I personally and professionally understand the dynamics that accompany many of these life challenges.
Is life becoming challenging, overwhelming, confusing, unfair, and more? I understand! I have over 28 years of experience supporting people struggling with a variety of issues - depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma & PTSD, grief & loss, life changes, abuse, and more. I personally and professionally understand the dynamics that accompany many of these life challenges.
(503) 342-7764 View (503) 342-7764
Photo of Todd Sprague, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Todd Sprague
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tualatin, OR 97062  (Online Only)
I believe therapy provides a unique opportunity to identify the strengths you already possess and utilize them to create positive change. Everyone has the ability to change and I am passionate about helping people identify healthier, more effective ways of coping with life's difficulties. Together, we will identify your goals and work together to reach them.
I believe therapy provides a unique opportunity to identify the strengths you already possess and utilize them to create positive change. Everyone has the ability to change and I am passionate about helping people identify healthier, more effective ways of coping with life's difficulties. Together, we will identify your goals and work together to reach them.
(503) 713-6813 View (503) 713-6813
Photo of Lisa M Wurzelbacher, PhD, Psychologist
Lisa M Wurzelbacher
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Tualatin, OR 97062
“Loving ourselves through the process of owning our story is the bravest thing we'll ever do." This quote by Brene Brown describes therapy well, particularly when the focus is healing from trauma. Therapy is a place to explore and embrace your story more fully, and my highest value is establishing an authentic, safe, compassionate, and accepting space where you can process what is keeping you "stuck." Whether you desire to develop skills to improve your relationships; process recent grief, divorce, childhood trauma, or cancer diagnosis; or alter core beliefs and lifelong behavior patterns; I would be honored to work with you.
“Loving ourselves through the process of owning our story is the bravest thing we'll ever do." This quote by Brene Brown describes therapy well, particularly when the focus is healing from trauma. Therapy is a place to explore and embrace your story more fully, and my highest value is establishing an authentic, safe, compassionate, and accepting space where you can process what is keeping you "stuck." Whether you desire to develop skills to improve your relationships; process recent grief, divorce, childhood trauma, or cancer diagnosis; or alter core beliefs and lifelong behavior patterns; I would be honored to work with you.
(503) 766-5519 View (503) 766-5519
Photo of Stephanie Snow - Psychology & Wellness Group PDX (Group Practice), MS, MA, MSW, CSWA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Psychology & Wellness Group PDX (Group Practice)
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, MSW, CSWA, LPC
Verified Verified
Tualatin, OR 97062
We are a group practice with locations in SW (Tigard) & SE (Sellwood) PDX. We want to help you deal with the effects of your emotional pain, often invisible to others. If you are looking to be able to trust yourself and others and to understand the negative repetitive patterns in your life, then therapy can be a possible solution. We believe in competency, honesty and compassion as necessary qualities for therapists; ultimately you need to be able to trust the therapist you choose. Although life can be full of pain, we want to help reduce your suffering. Therapy is one of the ways.... CONTACT us for fee information please.
We are a group practice with locations in SW (Tigard) & SE (Sellwood) PDX. We want to help you deal with the effects of your emotional pain, often invisible to others. If you are looking to be able to trust yourself and others and to understand the negative repetitive patterns in your life, then therapy can be a possible solution. We believe in competency, honesty and compassion as necessary qualities for therapists; ultimately you need to be able to trust the therapist you choose. Although life can be full of pain, we want to help reduce your suffering. Therapy is one of the ways.... CONTACT us for fee information please.
(971) 257-1389 View (971) 257-1389
Photo of Amy Aulick Gupta, MDiv, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Amy Aulick Gupta
Pre-Licensed Professional, MDiv, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tualatin, OR 97062
So much of life is learning to deal with the cards we’ve been given. I love seeing people not only deal with the cards they’ve been given, but turn them into amazing card castles. I want to help those that seek to get unstuck grow toward their best selves, have great relationships and enjoy lives filled with joy. I like to use well-researched therapeutic techniques that have been proven to help people grow. In couples therapy that means drawing from the research of John Gottman. In family and individual therapy that means an integrative approach - utilizing practical therapeutic tools that help clients achieve their goals.
So much of life is learning to deal with the cards we’ve been given. I love seeing people not only deal with the cards they’ve been given, but turn them into amazing card castles. I want to help those that seek to get unstuck grow toward their best selves, have great relationships and enjoy lives filled with joy. I like to use well-researched therapeutic techniques that have been proven to help people grow. In couples therapy that means drawing from the research of John Gottman. In family and individual therapy that means an integrative approach - utilizing practical therapeutic tools that help clients achieve their goals.
(503) 242-1675 View (503) 242-1675
Photo of Vanessa Migliorini- Agency Has No Waiting List!, MA, QMHP-R, Pre-Licensed Professional
Vanessa Migliorini- Agency Has No Waiting List!
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, QMHP-R
Verified Verified
Tualatin, OR 97062  (Online Only)
I believe that people seek counseling for a variety of reasons and when people are suffering from mental and or emotional pain, it can interfere with a persons overall wellbeing. Many times when a person is feeling and experiencing pain, this can make a person feel disconnected from others. I believe that when a person reaches out for help and support, this is the first step in the healing process. Through establishing and building a therapeutic relationship, based on congruence, unconditional positive regard, and empathetic understanding, I can help facilitate a place to foster healing, personal growth, change, and self discovery.
I believe that people seek counseling for a variety of reasons and when people are suffering from mental and or emotional pain, it can interfere with a persons overall wellbeing. Many times when a person is feeling and experiencing pain, this can make a person feel disconnected from others. I believe that when a person reaches out for help and support, this is the first step in the healing process. Through establishing and building a therapeutic relationship, based on congruence, unconditional positive regard, and empathetic understanding, I can help facilitate a place to foster healing, personal growth, change, and self discovery.
(458) 217-6270 View (458) 217-6270
Photo of Gerry McNamara, MA, MS, LMFT, MAC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gerry McNamara
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT, MAC
Verified Verified
Tualatin, OR 97062  (Online Only)
Life is sometimes unpredictable and challenging, and you may find you need some guidance and support. In a collaborative therapeutic environment, we will find solutions to challenges you face, through increased self-awareness and active pursuit of your goals. I integrate my practical experience as a former NASA mechanical engineer with my psychological training as a therapist to see individuals, couples and families. My approach is strength-based, cognitive-behavioral and trauma-informed. I also have extensive experience in addiction, military family issues, and I especially enjoy working with adolescents.
Life is sometimes unpredictable and challenging, and you may find you need some guidance and support. In a collaborative therapeutic environment, we will find solutions to challenges you face, through increased self-awareness and active pursuit of your goals. I integrate my practical experience as a former NASA mechanical engineer with my psychological training as a therapist to see individuals, couples and families. My approach is strength-based, cognitive-behavioral and trauma-informed. I also have extensive experience in addiction, military family issues, and I especially enjoy working with adolescents.
(503) 300-4531 View (503) 300-4531
Photo of J P Rafael, MA, LPC, MCFC, Licensed Professional Counselor
J P Rafael
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MCFC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Tualatin, OR 97062
Not accepting new clients
Therapy presents a unique opportunity for people to find solutions/resolutions for challenges life throws at them. Walking with individuals to establish a working relationship while providing a safe environment is one of my main objectives. I am passionate about working with people. Developing strengths, visiting past victories, and exploring methods of coping are ways just a few ways to find peace, healing and hope during traumatic or painful circumstances.
Therapy presents a unique opportunity for people to find solutions/resolutions for challenges life throws at them. Walking with individuals to establish a working relationship while providing a safe environment is one of my main objectives. I am passionate about working with people. Developing strengths, visiting past victories, and exploring methods of coping are ways just a few ways to find peace, healing and hope during traumatic or painful circumstances.
(503) 874-6816 View (503) 874-6816
Photo of Jolene Molinaro, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jolene Molinaro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tualatin, OR 97062
Not accepting new clients
I work to help people find greater meaning, clarity and purpose - especially at important crossroads of change. Our view of self can be altered through past trauma, divorce, relocation, loss, illness, and new opportunities for growth can be embraced. Symptoms of anxiety, depression, and past trauma can lower motivation and activate old ways that no longer serve you today.
I work to help people find greater meaning, clarity and purpose - especially at important crossroads of change. Our view of self can be altered through past trauma, divorce, relocation, loss, illness, and new opportunities for growth can be embraced. Symptoms of anxiety, depression, and past trauma can lower motivation and activate old ways that no longer serve you today.
(971) 252-7239 View (971) 252-7239

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lisa Dykstra, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisa Dykstra
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97201
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 Andrea J Tyler, LPC, LCPC, CADCIII, CIEC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrea J Tyler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, CADCIII, CIEC, NCC
Verified Verified
Newberg, OR 97132  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Whether you have a diagnosis of Borderline Personality Disorder, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, disordered eating/eating disorders, co-occurring substance use, depressive or anxiety disorders, together we will find the best treatment approach to address your specific goals.
Do any of these comments sound familiar? “You’re too emotional.” “You’re so dramatic.” “Why can’t you just let it go?” “You’re so sensitive!” Do you struggle to cope without going to extremes? Too many people haven’t been taught how to cope with the struggles of life in healthy, effective ways and instead find any possible way to feel better, as quickly as possible. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) in particular can help you learn these vital skills to begin building the life you choose. If you’re tired of being stuck in suffering and emotional pain, I’d like to help you find your way through. -Adult clients only at this time.-
Whether you have a diagnosis of Borderline Personality Disorder, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, disordered eating/eating disorders, co-occurring substance use, depressive or anxiety disorders, together we will find the best treatment approach to address your specific goals.
Do any of these comments sound familiar? “You’re too emotional.” “You’re so dramatic.” “Why can’t you just let it go?” “You’re so sensitive!” Do you struggle to cope without going to extremes? Too many people haven’t been taught how to cope with the struggles of life in healthy, effective ways and instead find any possible way to feel better, as quickly as possible. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) in particular can help you learn these vital skills to begin building the life you choose. If you’re tired of being stuck in suffering and emotional pain, I’d like to help you find your way through. -Adult clients only at this time.-
(971) 287-1587 View (971) 287-1587
Photo of Kalene Krause - Agency Has No Waiting List!, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kalene Krause - Agency Has No Waiting List!
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.
(503) 854-0355 View (503) 854-0355
Photo of Christopher Lee Creaturo, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christopher Lee Creaturo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Beaverton, OR 97007  (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 Torie Wiksell, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Torie Wiksell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97239  (Online Only)
I look forward to chatting about how I can help! - I am currently enrolling for an 8-week online therapy group, Dealing with a Parent who has Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD).
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. 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 use profanity on occasion to emphasize a point.
I look forward to chatting about how I can help! - I am currently enrolling for an 8-week online therapy group, Dealing with a Parent who has Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD).
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. 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 use profanity on occasion to emphasize a point.
(360) 327-8525 View (360) 327-8525
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
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.
(720) 838-4531 View (720) 838-4531
Photo of Steve Stolzoff, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Steve Stolzoff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97007
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 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 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
Aurora, OR 97002  (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 Erica Ironside, PhD, Psychologist
Erica Ironside
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97007
Waitlist for new clients
To reveal and work through one's difficulties can be scary, but fulfilling and enriching. Thus, I work to create a trusting, supportive environment free of judgement that allows for a safe space to dive into the depths of one's unique story and what brings them to treatment. Therapy can be a powerful process in which one can gain new insights, decrease distress and suffering, uncover strengths and limitations, and improve relationships both with one's self and others. I will treat you with compassion, empathy, encouragement, and honesty as we navigate the therapeutic process together.
To reveal and work through one's difficulties can be scary, but fulfilling and enriching. Thus, I work to create a trusting, supportive environment free of judgement that allows for a safe space to dive into the depths of one's unique story and what brings them to treatment. Therapy can be a powerful process in which one can gain new insights, decrease distress and suffering, uncover strengths and limitations, and improve relationships both with one's self and others. I will treat you with compassion, empathy, encouragement, and honesty as we navigate the therapeutic process together.
(971) 232-3343 View (971) 232-3343
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
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.