Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in Philadelphia, PA
![Photo of Jack Wolcott, MSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/37c9f34b-f080-4ff3-9c50-e754b953b792/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am passionate about supporting clients to find balance in their emotional and social well-being, resolve trauma, and achieve a life worth living. I work with teenagers and adults who experience overwhelming emotions, thoughts, and behaviors such as self-harm, and suicidal actions, by utilizing full-model Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). I specialize in clients diagnosed with BPD or who have tried many different therapies without success. I also work with clients who are exploring their identity, using an intersectional systems approach that is tailored to each client's unique experiences.
I am passionate about supporting clients to find balance in their emotional and social well-being, resolve trauma, and achieve a life worth living. I work with teenagers and adults who experience overwhelming emotions, thoughts, and behaviors such as self-harm, and suicidal actions, by utilizing full-model Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). I specialize in clients diagnosed with BPD or who have tried many different therapies without success. I also work with clients who are exploring their identity, using an intersectional systems approach that is tailored to each client's unique experiences.
![Photo of Dr. Christopher G. Deussing, DSW, LCSW, C-DBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bbae2e1b-1b62-4d10-ac20-a01525b97291/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Christopher G. Deussing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, C-DBT
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19146
Dr. Deussing has helped many people with a variety of psychological presentations including mood disorders, trauma, grief, addiction, & personality disorders. Currently, three of his primary focuses are Borderline Personality Disorder, Ketamine Therapy, & Men's Mental Health. Dr. Deussing's core competencies are Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Modern Psychoanalysis, & Psychedelic Therapy. He is a creative clinician who uses a humanistic client-centered approach. Dr. Deussing is an expert group facilitator licensed to practice in 6 states (PA, NJ, DE, CO, FL, & HI). He also provides training, supervision, & consultation services.
Dr. Deussing has helped many people with a variety of psychological presentations including mood disorders, trauma, grief, addiction, & personality disorders. Currently, three of his primary focuses are Borderline Personality Disorder, Ketamine Therapy, & Men's Mental Health. Dr. Deussing's core competencies are Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Modern Psychoanalysis, & Psychedelic Therapy. He is a creative clinician who uses a humanistic client-centered approach. Dr. Deussing is an expert group facilitator licensed to practice in 6 states (PA, NJ, DE, CO, FL, & HI). He also provides training, supervision, & consultation services.
![Photo of Sara Weand, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4610c8d2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sara Weand
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103 (Online Only)
As a Licensed Professional Counselor & DBT therapist, I specialize in the treatment of Borderline Personality Disorder, debilitating anxiety & panic.
Your relationships are falling apart, you’re anxious all of the time, and your life has become an out-of-control mess. You wonder why relationships have to be so hard and cause you so much pain. People just don’t get it. They don’t get that when you’re hurt, your emotions take over and consume you. You’d literally do anything to not feel that way. In fact, when you have, you ended up feeling even worse and pushing those very same people away. You’re so desperate for people’s approval and terrified that if they ever found out what you’re really like, they wouldn’t want you anymore.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor & DBT therapist, I specialize in the treatment of Borderline Personality Disorder, debilitating anxiety & panic.
Your relationships are falling apart, you’re anxious all of the time, and your life has become an out-of-control mess. You wonder why relationships have to be so hard and cause you so much pain. People just don’t get it. They don’t get that when you’re hurt, your emotions take over and consume you. You’d literally do anything to not feel that way. In fact, when you have, you ended up feeling even worse and pushing those very same people away. You’re so desperate for people’s approval and terrified that if they ever found out what you’re really like, they wouldn’t want you anymore.
![Photo of Amanda Gigante, LCSW, MSW, MSS, RYT-200](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d27b63e2-c674-442d-b6f6-05981ac9f889/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda Gigante
LCSW, MSW, MSS, RYT-200
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19106 (Online Only)
I'm a licensed psychotherapist in PA and NJ, and the founder of Be Here Now Psychotherapy. I'm experienced in helping adult children with narcissistic parents, and those recovering from abusive romantic relationships. I specialize in treating Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), using psychodynamic therapy, IFS and TIST. My overarching area of expertise is trauma, complex trauma and PTSD. I hold a certificate in Integrative Somatic Trauma Therapy. I believe healing is a holistic endeavor, and depth psychology can be integrated with somatic work to unite body and mind to help us get to know ourselves on on many levels.
I'm a licensed psychotherapist in PA and NJ, and the founder of Be Here Now Psychotherapy. I'm experienced in helping adult children with narcissistic parents, and those recovering from abusive romantic relationships. I specialize in treating Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), using psychodynamic therapy, IFS and TIST. My overarching area of expertise is trauma, complex trauma and PTSD. I hold a certificate in Integrative Somatic Trauma Therapy. I believe healing is a holistic endeavor, and depth psychology can be integrated with somatic work to unite body and mind to help us get to know ourselves on on many levels.
![Photo of Chamonix Rassekh, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc3bae4d-9dba-42ff-96e0-35e8248e402e/2/320x400.png)
Chamonix Rassekh is a Licensed Professional Counseling Candidate (LPC-C) with over 5 years of experience. She specializes in treating children, teens, and adults suffering from addiction, trauma, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and borderline personality disorder. Chamonix also has experience working specifically with people in the process of rebuilding and restructuring their lives after times of hardship—whether that be in the form of trauma, addiction, loss, or major life transitions and changes.
Chamonix Rassekh is a Licensed Professional Counseling Candidate (LPC-C) with over 5 years of experience. She specializes in treating children, teens, and adults suffering from addiction, trauma, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and borderline personality disorder. Chamonix also has experience working specifically with people in the process of rebuilding and restructuring their lives after times of hardship—whether that be in the form of trauma, addiction, loss, or major life transitions and changes.
![Photo of Deborah Lawson Morgan, MHS-C, LPC, NCC, CCTP-II, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cb634ff2-ffa6-4270-a73c-08d278ea5245/1/320x400.jpeg)
Deborah Lawson Morgan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MHS-C, LPC, NCC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19113
In my practice, I provide a friendly and non-judgmental approach. I am a Licensed Mental Health Care provider with more than eight years of experience in the treatment of adults and adolescents with a history of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, BPD, and trauma-related disorders. Currently, I am in the process of being paneled by some insurance companies, but for now, I accept cash & credit/debit cards. I offer appropriate resources for the care needed, ensuring that my clients feel safe to open themselves up and focus on their mental and emotional health. My sessions are currently conducted online.
In my practice, I provide a friendly and non-judgmental approach. I am a Licensed Mental Health Care provider with more than eight years of experience in the treatment of adults and adolescents with a history of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, BPD, and trauma-related disorders. Currently, I am in the process of being paneled by some insurance companies, but for now, I accept cash & credit/debit cards. I offer appropriate resources for the care needed, ensuring that my clients feel safe to open themselves up and focus on their mental and emotional health. My sessions are currently conducted online.
![Photo of Kristina Frechette, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/607bbb38-0447-4351-9069-207728f50038/1/320x400.png)
Kristina Frechette
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19106 (Online Only)
I specialize in working with mood disorders such as anxiety, depression and personality disorders such as DMDD, Borderline Personality Disorder.
My ideal client is someone who is seeking a path to meaningful change. They may be struggling with a range of issues, such as anxiety, eating disorders, depression, stress, trauma, self-esteem challenges, or navigating life transitions. I enjoy working with those who are seeking guidance and support to understand of their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors, and are motivated to become the best version of themselves.
I specialize in working with mood disorders such as anxiety, depression and personality disorders such as DMDD, Borderline Personality Disorder.
My ideal client is someone who is seeking a path to meaningful change. They may be struggling with a range of issues, such as anxiety, eating disorders, depression, stress, trauma, self-esteem challenges, or navigating life transitions. I enjoy working with those who are seeking guidance and support to understand of their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors, and are motivated to become the best version of themselves.
![Photo of Daniel Pinsk, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0089fd8e-4423-4f88-b5d5-333a1258aed0/1/320x400.jpeg)
I believe that therapy should be an engaging and enriching experience. Therapy is collaborative, it is a conversation, and it can even be enjoyable. I strive to do what I can to make you as comfortable as possible in session. You are the expert on you, and it’s my job to help you figure out what that means. I specialize in the following: Queer and Transgender issues, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, Adolescent and Young Adult Issues, Stress Management, Aging, Grief Counseling. and Relationship Stress
I believe that therapy should be an engaging and enriching experience. Therapy is collaborative, it is a conversation, and it can even be enjoyable. I strive to do what I can to make you as comfortable as possible in session. You are the expert on you, and it’s my job to help you figure out what that means. I specialize in the following: Queer and Transgender issues, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, Adolescent and Young Adult Issues, Stress Management, Aging, Grief Counseling. and Relationship Stress
![Photo of Vincent Lamont, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45b51919-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Vincent Lamont
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103 (Online Only)
I have experience working with depression and anxiety disorders addiction disorders, PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder, co-occurring disorders (mental illness and addiction), career changes, dysfunctional family of origin issues, LGBT issues and concerns and adjustment disorders.
My name is Vincent Lamont and I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (Pennsylvania). Entering therapy can be a difficult decision for most people. I am committed to gently guiding my clients toward a place of relief from emotional distress and an enhanced sense of well-being. I am here to provide a safe space, and to help you work through whatever issue or conflict is troubling you.
I have experience working with depression and anxiety disorders addiction disorders, PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder, co-occurring disorders (mental illness and addiction), career changes, dysfunctional family of origin issues, LGBT issues and concerns and adjustment disorders.
My name is Vincent Lamont and I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (Pennsylvania). Entering therapy can be a difficult decision for most people. I am committed to gently guiding my clients toward a place of relief from emotional distress and an enhanced sense of well-being. I am here to provide a safe space, and to help you work through whatever issue or conflict is troubling you.
![Photo of Kate Larsen, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/604cb8b1-f2e8-44de-aa77-273179f3129d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kate Larsen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19134 (Online Only)
Hello ! My name is Kate. I am a virtual therapist. I want to help you resolve the pain and struggle that keeps coming up and blocking your happiness. I specialize in helping people who are fighting complicated symptoms often related to trauma history. My experience and specialized training mean I am skilled at treating PTSD, Major depression, Social Anxiety, OCD, and Borderline Personality. The types of therapy I utilize will keep you motivated .Working together we can expect small changes to start soon. Small changes lead to big changes and the life you have dreamed about.
Hello ! My name is Kate. I am a virtual therapist. I want to help you resolve the pain and struggle that keeps coming up and blocking your happiness. I specialize in helping people who are fighting complicated symptoms often related to trauma history. My experience and specialized training mean I am skilled at treating PTSD, Major depression, Social Anxiety, OCD, and Borderline Personality. The types of therapy I utilize will keep you motivated .Working together we can expect small changes to start soon. Small changes lead to big changes and the life you have dreamed about.
![Photo of Chelsea Lightbourn - Peace, Love, & Therapy with Chelsea, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c842d468-416e-4ca5-bc97-6879d4844e58/2/320x400.jpeg)
Peace, Love, & Therapy with Chelsea
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19146
Just like my clients, I am a person/clinician, with many layers. Starting my career from the basis of a counseling degree rooted in trauma, I've worked with a spectrum of disorders over the past 7 years of my career. If you decide to make the empowered choice to step into this safe space you'll be met with my humor, specialized treatment in ADHD/ADD, use of dialectical behavior therapy & other modalities, and care for borderline personality disorders, women's issues, and relationship issues. With neurodivergent-friendly tactics, I can help clients to set and reach goals based on their own specialized parameters.
Just like my clients, I am a person/clinician, with many layers. Starting my career from the basis of a counseling degree rooted in trauma, I've worked with a spectrum of disorders over the past 7 years of my career. If you decide to make the empowered choice to step into this safe space you'll be met with my humor, specialized treatment in ADHD/ADD, use of dialectical behavior therapy & other modalities, and care for borderline personality disorders, women's issues, and relationship issues. With neurodivergent-friendly tactics, I can help clients to set and reach goals based on their own specialized parameters.
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![Photo of Dr. Alyssa B. Catuogno, PsyD, NCSP, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/504b5911-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Alyssa B. Catuogno
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD, NCSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
My specialties range from anxiety to borderline personality disorder.
My treatment approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness-Based Therapy for individuals suffering from various disorders and psychological distress including but not limited to eating disorders, depression, anxiety, LGBTQ, suicidal ideation, and family issues. In addition to psychotherapy, I conduct psychological evaluations/testing, psychoeducational testing, and biopsychosocial evaluations. I conduct testing for ADHD, gifted/talented, and special education services. I provide a compassionate, holistic, and caring atmosphere in order to provide my clients a trusting and supportive therapeutic experience.
My specialties range from anxiety to borderline personality disorder.
My treatment approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness-Based Therapy for individuals suffering from various disorders and psychological distress including but not limited to eating disorders, depression, anxiety, LGBTQ, suicidal ideation, and family issues. In addition to psychotherapy, I conduct psychological evaluations/testing, psychoeducational testing, and biopsychosocial evaluations. I conduct testing for ADHD, gifted/talented, and special education services. I provide a compassionate, holistic, and caring atmosphere in order to provide my clients a trusting and supportive therapeutic experience.
![Photo of Meg Costa, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1232d689-4ad6-4807-ac3a-86a7ccf1f9db/2/320x400.jpeg)
My clinical experience includes trauma, depression, anxiety, OCD, grief/loss, existential concerns, BPD, and mood disorders.
My approach to therapy is client-centered, humanistic, integrative, narrative, and trauma-informed. Together, we can work to uncover and retell the narratives of your life. We will in no way dismiss the hardships you have faced, rather, we can honor these experiences through thoughtful reflection. Through this process, we can also collaborate to cultivate more balance, purpose, passion, and growth in your life. I also strive to always acknowledge how systemic oppression can affect my clients lives. Therapy is absolutely a space where one should feel comfortable processing the impact of oppression.
My clinical experience includes trauma, depression, anxiety, OCD, grief/loss, existential concerns, BPD, and mood disorders.
My approach to therapy is client-centered, humanistic, integrative, narrative, and trauma-informed. Together, we can work to uncover and retell the narratives of your life. We will in no way dismiss the hardships you have faced, rather, we can honor these experiences through thoughtful reflection. Through this process, we can also collaborate to cultivate more balance, purpose, passion, and growth in your life. I also strive to always acknowledge how systemic oppression can affect my clients lives. Therapy is absolutely a space where one should feel comfortable processing the impact of oppression.
![Photo of Brie (Brianne) Scott, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f9f5174d-dfd8-4676-8341-155d60156174/1/320x400.png)
Brie (Brianne) Scott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19144 (Online Only)
I am a Hispanic, white, able-bodied, queer, women, who practices therapy from a anti-oppression frame work. I practice from a harm reduction perspective and believe that you are the expert on your life, I’m just here to help you with your goals. I work with those experiencing stress in life transitions, and relationships issues. I have a lot of experience with those diagnosed with anxiety, depression, bipolar, borderline personality disorder, PTSD, complex PTSD and other dissociative disorders.
I am a Hispanic, white, able-bodied, queer, women, who practices therapy from a anti-oppression frame work. I practice from a harm reduction perspective and believe that you are the expert on your life, I’m just here to help you with your goals. I work with those experiencing stress in life transitions, and relationships issues. I have a lot of experience with those diagnosed with anxiety, depression, bipolar, borderline personality disorder, PTSD, complex PTSD and other dissociative disorders.
![Photo of Morgan Karcher, MA, LPC, ATR-BC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9c831fd1-2974-4295-a3c3-b9ddbae8917a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Morgan Karcher
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19107
Hi, I'm Morgan! I'm a Philly-based trauma focused licensed professional counselor with Nourish Therapy & Wellness. My expertise comes from a psychodynamic, relational therapy approach, implementing tenants of Art Therapy, Feminist Theory, Internal Family Systems Model, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (T-F CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy . I have helped individuals, families, couples from adolescence into adulthood find healing and understanding in desperate situations. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, PTSD, ADHD, BPD, codependency, attachment issues, body image & self-esteem.
Hi, I'm Morgan! I'm a Philly-based trauma focused licensed professional counselor with Nourish Therapy & Wellness. My expertise comes from a psychodynamic, relational therapy approach, implementing tenants of Art Therapy, Feminist Theory, Internal Family Systems Model, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (T-F CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy . I have helped individuals, families, couples from adolescence into adulthood find healing and understanding in desperate situations. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, PTSD, ADHD, BPD, codependency, attachment issues, body image & self-esteem.
![Photo of Nastassja Hanna, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/907fe223-dcee-4535-bc88-a20c61619057/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nastassja Hanna
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103 (Online Only)
Nastassja Hanna is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and National Certified Counselor (NCC) with five years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families addressing a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction within the family, relationship issues, borderline personality, self-esteem, spiritual and religious issues, and life adjustments. Nastassja completed her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MACMHC) at Lancaster Bible College / Capital Seminary and Graduate School.
Nastassja Hanna is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and National Certified Counselor (NCC) with five years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families addressing a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction within the family, relationship issues, borderline personality, self-esteem, spiritual and religious issues, and life adjustments. Nastassja completed her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MACMHC) at Lancaster Bible College / Capital Seminary and Graduate School.
![Photo of Maddie Canel, MS, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df8a3c58-35e2-4387-b05d-39be6a8e139f/2/320x400.png)
I have lived experience with neurodivergence, depression, anxiety, and being in a plus sized body. I have experience working with the above as well as being trained in working with clients with BPD and clients who just feel like they need a safe space to discuss day to day life stressors. I stress to my clients that therapy is for everyone and there is no such thing as a "trauma olympics" where something is better or worse than others! I work with clients age 6+.
I have lived experience with neurodivergence, depression, anxiety, and being in a plus sized body. I have experience working with the above as well as being trained in working with clients with BPD and clients who just feel like they need a safe space to discuss day to day life stressors. I stress to my clients that therapy is for everyone and there is no such thing as a "trauma olympics" where something is better or worse than others! I work with clients age 6+.
![Photo of Amber Brandes, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f468e60-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amber Brandes
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Finding a therapist is an important, yet challenging task. I have worked with individuals of all ages with issues including, but not limited to depression, anxiety, gender identity struggles, and borderline personality disorder.
Finding a therapist is an important, yet challenging task. I have worked with individuals of all ages with issues including, but not limited to depression, anxiety, gender identity struggles, and borderline personality disorder.
![Photo of Dan Livney, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c7ae756-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sometimes they may come with diagnoses such as bipolar and borderline disorders, or psychosis.
How does the "talking cure" help? It might have even been called the "listening cure." Having a helpful and supportive ear is something many people find they need at various transition points in their lives. Having a safe place to talk, in a warm and supportive environment, is crucial. The tool of our work is the relationship and, as research has shown, is the most important predictor of success in psychotherapy. I enjoy working with my patients as they seek to find their way to a richer and more fulfilling life.
Sometimes they may come with diagnoses such as bipolar and borderline disorders, or psychosis.
How does the "talking cure" help? It might have even been called the "listening cure." Having a helpful and supportive ear is something many people find they need at various transition points in their lives. Having a safe place to talk, in a warm and supportive environment, is crucial. The tool of our work is the relationship and, as research has shown, is the most important predictor of success in psychotherapy. I enjoy working with my patients as they seek to find their way to a richer and more fulfilling life.
![Photo of Sarah Ullman - Dr Sarah Ullman, PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53090d78-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Sarah Ullman
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103 (Online Only)
Issues of shame, fear of abandonment, betrayal, intimacy, attachment, roller-coaster relationships, uncontrollable anger, explosive rage, impulsivity, that can result in narcissistic or borderline behaviors and the need to medicate these painful, out of control emotions.
I believe in the power of research-driven, neuroscience-based treatment because healing begins with knowing. I am a neuroscience-trained cognitive-behaviorist with a PhD in clinical psychology, and 40 years of clinical expertise in the assessment and psychotherapy for problems with PTSD, Childhood Trauma, and Addiction, for individuals and couples including veterans and active-duty military. If you suffer from trauma or addiction (drugs, alcohol, sex, gambling, pornography, internet/gaming), you are welcome to be seen in my office, anywhere in the country, or around the world through telehealth web-therapy.
Issues of shame, fear of abandonment, betrayal, intimacy, attachment, roller-coaster relationships, uncontrollable anger, explosive rage, impulsivity, that can result in narcissistic or borderline behaviors and the need to medicate these painful, out of control emotions.
I believe in the power of research-driven, neuroscience-based treatment because healing begins with knowing. I am a neuroscience-trained cognitive-behaviorist with a PhD in clinical psychology, and 40 years of clinical expertise in the assessment and psychotherapy for problems with PTSD, Childhood Trauma, and Addiction, for individuals and couples including veterans and active-duty military. If you suffer from trauma or addiction (drugs, alcohol, sex, gambling, pornography, internet/gaming), you are welcome to be seen in my office, anywhere in the country, or around the world through telehealth web-therapy.
See more therapy options for Philadelphia
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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.