Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in Trousdale County, TN

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Online Therapists

Photo of Alison Crane, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alison Crane
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Antioch, TN 37013  (Online Only)
I also have many years of experience with chronic disease, and mental health diagnosis including depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, ASD, and personality disorders including borderline personality disorder.
Hi, I am Alison Crane! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Therapy is a journey, and I want to walk beside you and help you to become exactly who you want to be. I see each client as a unique individual and a survivor-I will treat you with dignity and respect, and I always use a kind, gentle, and nonjudgmental approach. I have had many years of experience working with adults (from 18-105) individuals who have struggle with life transitions such as college, marriage, divorce, and aging.
I also have many years of experience with chronic disease, and mental health diagnosis including depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, ASD, and personality disorders including borderline personality disorder.
Hi, I am Alison Crane! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Therapy is a journey, and I want to walk beside you and help you to become exactly who you want to be. I see each client as a unique individual and a survivor-I will treat you with dignity and respect, and I always use a kind, gentle, and nonjudgmental approach. I have had many years of experience working with adults (from 18-105) individuals who have struggle with life transitions such as college, marriage, divorce, and aging.
(629) 258-7847 View (629) 258-7847
Photo of Derrell Seigler, LPCMHSP, MA, NCC, MTS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Derrell Seigler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP, MA, NCC, MTS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203  (Online Only)
If you have addiction, alcohol use, or anger management issues due to trauma and PTSD or family dysfunction, you may have experienced judgement & painful perceptions from others that are just not true. Anxiety, grief, stress, substance use, and suicidal ideation may be familiar companions you wish weren't there. Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality (BPD), and Dual Diagnosis, may have been words thrown around, causing relational issues. These may be part of your story, but there's more in store for you through the healing work of counseling. You deserve a life of connection, serenity, and meaning. Let's begin!
If you have addiction, alcohol use, or anger management issues due to trauma and PTSD or family dysfunction, you may have experienced judgement & painful perceptions from others that are just not true. Anxiety, grief, stress, substance use, and suicidal ideation may be familiar companions you wish weren't there. Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality (BPD), and Dual Diagnosis, may have been words thrown around, causing relational issues. These may be part of your story, but there's more in store for you through the healing work of counseling. You deserve a life of connection, serenity, and meaning. Let's begin!
(615) 909-5820 View (615) 909-5820
Photo of Lizzie Harrigan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lizzie Harrigan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
I specialize in trauma/stress, addictive disorders, intimacy issues, and borderline personality disorder.
Thank you for your interest in my practice. Are you feeling stuck? Is there something nagging at you? Do people consistently tell you that you should change? Maybe you are in pain or feeling stressed. Maybe you want more out of your relationships or your work life. Perhaps you want to be healthier. Therapy can help. Together, let's identify what the problems are and begin moving toward a happier, more energetic you. I will provide you with professional support and suggestions and together we will continually monitor your progress until you reach your goals.
I specialize in trauma/stress, addictive disorders, intimacy issues, and borderline personality disorder.
Thank you for your interest in my practice. Are you feeling stuck? Is there something nagging at you? Do people consistently tell you that you should change? Maybe you are in pain or feeling stressed. Maybe you want more out of your relationships or your work life. Perhaps you want to be healthier. Therapy can help. Together, let's identify what the problems are and begin moving toward a happier, more energetic you. I will provide you with professional support and suggestions and together we will continually monitor your progress until you reach your goals.
(615) 395-1307 View (615) 395-1307
Photo of Jennifer Strickland, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Strickland
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37214
I have expertise in working with individuals with alcohol and drug addictions, mood disorders, anxiety and BPD.
I understand how hard it is to ask for help during one of life's challenges and I honor the courage it takes to begin the counseling process. I partner with clients by meeting each person where they are and by providing a safe, non-judgmental therapuetic space to work through problems, process feelings and find solutions. I provide a sounding board and empowerment to each person by using sense of humor, direct communication and a strong, diverse counseling skill set to help individuals reach their goals.
I have expertise in working with individuals with alcohol and drug addictions, mood disorders, anxiety and BPD.
I understand how hard it is to ask for help during one of life's challenges and I honor the courage it takes to begin the counseling process. I partner with clients by meeting each person where they are and by providing a safe, non-judgmental therapuetic space to work through problems, process feelings and find solutions. I provide a sounding board and empowerment to each person by using sense of humor, direct communication and a strong, diverse counseling skill set to help individuals reach their goals.
(615) 645-3753 View (615) 645-3753
Photo of Stephanie Hathcock Vaughn, PsyD, DBT-LBC, Psychologist
Stephanie Hathcock Vaughn
Psychologist, PsyD, DBT-LBC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37215  (Online Only)
I specialize in relationship issues, life transitions such as grief and divorce, Borderline Personality Disorder, oppositional kids, Trauma/PTSD, panic disorder, factitious disorder, and OCD.
As a CBT and DBT Psychologist, National Speaker, hospital consultant, and clinical supervisor for Vanderbilt University, I have successfully helped veterans, teens, psychologists, physicians, attorneys, students, celebrities, and homemakers feel better and improve their lives. My business, PSYCHē, PLLC is founded upon the belief that going the extra mile makes all the difference. People need real support and real solutions—not just a nod and concerned look. My job is to help—my clients tell me how. I am a member of PSYPACT which means I can see clients in every state that is a member of PSYPACT and I'm also licensed in MA.
I specialize in relationship issues, life transitions such as grief and divorce, Borderline Personality Disorder, oppositional kids, Trauma/PTSD, panic disorder, factitious disorder, and OCD.
As a CBT and DBT Psychologist, National Speaker, hospital consultant, and clinical supervisor for Vanderbilt University, I have successfully helped veterans, teens, psychologists, physicians, attorneys, students, celebrities, and homemakers feel better and improve their lives. My business, PSYCHē, PLLC is founded upon the belief that going the extra mile makes all the difference. People need real support and real solutions—not just a nod and concerned look. My job is to help—my clients tell me how. I am a member of PSYPACT which means I can see clients in every state that is a member of PSYPACT and I'm also licensed in MA.
(615) 745-1019 View (615) 745-1019
Photo of Nancy Spitzer, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nancy Spitzer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clarksville, TN 37043  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of Florida, Utah, Texas, Kentucky, South Dakota, Tennessee, Louisiana, North Carolina, Virginia and Ohio. I specialize in working with clients who are diagnosed with substance abuse issues, trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, Borderline Personality Disorder, personality disorders and gender issues. I also have extensive knowledge working with couples and have received Gottman Method Couples Training (Level 1).
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of Florida, Utah, Texas, Kentucky, South Dakota, Tennessee, Louisiana, North Carolina, Virginia and Ohio. I specialize in working with clients who are diagnosed with substance abuse issues, trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, Borderline Personality Disorder, personality disorders and gender issues. I also have extensive knowledge working with couples and have received Gottman Method Couples Training (Level 1).
(615) 551-4193 View (615) 551-4193
Photo of Catherine Lucas, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Catherine Lucas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37228
Hey! I’m Catherine. With every client, my intention is to create an environment that promotes safety, authenticity, and honoring your needs to fully bloom into the person you were meant to be. I specialize in working with women seeking support with building and maintaining healthy relationships, intimacy, self-worth, boundaries, and trauma recovery from childhood abuse, sexual abuse/assault, domestic violence, emotional neglect, traumatic accidents, and other difficult life experiences. I also specialize in helping those with borderline personality disorder, anxiety, depression, and highly sensitive people (HSP).
Hey! I’m Catherine. With every client, my intention is to create an environment that promotes safety, authenticity, and honoring your needs to fully bloom into the person you were meant to be. I specialize in working with women seeking support with building and maintaining healthy relationships, intimacy, self-worth, boundaries, and trauma recovery from childhood abuse, sexual abuse/assault, domestic violence, emotional neglect, traumatic accidents, and other difficult life experiences. I also specialize in helping those with borderline personality disorder, anxiety, depression, and highly sensitive people (HSP).
(629) 263-4022 View (629) 263-4022
Photo of Leah E. Newman, LPC, MHSP, MEd, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leah E. Newman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, MEd, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37216  (Online Only)
LGBTQ+. Gender. Sexuality. Alternative Spirituality. Adult ADHD Assessment, Diagnosis, and Treatment. Kink. Sex Work. Vegan. Life Coaching. Tarot. Reiki. Virtual. 420 Friendly. Anxiety. Depression. . BPD. Couples. Meditation. I specialize in gender transitions, LGBTQ+ living, alternative spiritualities, and mindfulness. Don't worry, our straight friends are always welcome too! Find out more at www.LeahNewmanCounseling.com
LGBTQ+. Gender. Sexuality. Alternative Spirituality. Adult ADHD Assessment, Diagnosis, and Treatment. Kink. Sex Work. Vegan. Life Coaching. Tarot. Reiki. Virtual. 420 Friendly. Anxiety. Depression. . BPD. Couples. Meditation. I specialize in gender transitions, LGBTQ+ living, alternative spiritualities, and mindfulness. Don't worry, our straight friends are always welcome too! Find out more at www.LeahNewmanCounseling.com
(615) 745-3862 View (615) 745-3862
Photo of Jen Adams Biddle, MEd, LPC, MHSP, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jen Adams Biddle
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, MHSP, ACS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37067
I have experience working with anxiety, depression, neurodivergence, PDA Autism, suicide, self-harm, trauma, BPD, parent coaching, and couples issues.
Are you tired of repeating the same old patterns? Feel like you've tried everything you know? Don't give up. I'm willing to go all in. My style is relational, straightforward, and genuine. I enjoy working with couples and individuals who are seeking deeper connections relationally. I seek to help heal developmental trauma and attachment wounds experienced by individuals and couples. I also have experience and interest helping neurodivergent people understand themselves better and develop neurodivergent-affirming coping strategies.
I have experience working with anxiety, depression, neurodivergence, PDA Autism, suicide, self-harm, trauma, BPD, parent coaching, and couples issues.
Are you tired of repeating the same old patterns? Feel like you've tried everything you know? Don't give up. I'm willing to go all in. My style is relational, straightforward, and genuine. I enjoy working with couples and individuals who are seeking deeper connections relationally. I seek to help heal developmental trauma and attachment wounds experienced by individuals and couples. I also have experience and interest helping neurodivergent people understand themselves better and develop neurodivergent-affirming coping strategies.
(615) 640-1397 View (615) 640-1397
Photo of Kaycee Whiteside, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kaycee Whiteside
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37205  (Online Only)
I am particularly passionate about working with folks living with complex trauma (including religious, relational, and sexual trauma), Borderline Personality Disorder, and LGBTQ+ clients (as a member of the community myself ).
I am passionate about empowering folks to live a life full of meaning and connection. At the core of my client work is the desire to support people in feeling safer in their bodies, more secure in their relationships, and more fully present in their day-to-day lives. My purpose is to provide you with a welcoming & supportive space, compassionate perspective, and valuable tools to guide you in developing more self-kindness, feeling safer in your body, improving your relationships, and designing a life worth living on your own terms.
I am particularly passionate about working with folks living with complex trauma (including religious, relational, and sexual trauma), Borderline Personality Disorder, and LGBTQ+ clients (as a member of the community myself ).
I am passionate about empowering folks to live a life full of meaning and connection. At the core of my client work is the desire to support people in feeling safer in their bodies, more secure in their relationships, and more fully present in their day-to-day lives. My purpose is to provide you with a welcoming & supportive space, compassionate perspective, and valuable tools to guide you in developing more self-kindness, feeling safer in your body, improving your relationships, and designing a life worth living on your own terms.
(615) 437-5936 View (615) 437-5936
Photo of Stephanie Vaughn, PsyD, DBT-LBC, Psychologist
Stephanie Vaughn
Psychologist, PsyD, DBT-LBC
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37215  (Online Only)
I am a DBT-Linehan Board Certified Clinician and an expert in Borderline Personality Disorder, anxiety disorders, PTSD, self-harm, and oppositional adolescents.
My clients don't come to therapy to hear someone nod and agree with everything they say—that's not worth their time or money. They want real help. They want to know "what to do" and "how to fix it" because they're struggling with depression, severe anxiety, relationship problems, trauma, suicidal thoughts, parenting issues, and other painful situations. They are looking for a true expert that they can actually talk to. I am a member of PSYPACT which means I can see clients in every state that is a member of PSYPACT and I'm also licensed in MA.
I am a DBT-Linehan Board Certified Clinician and an expert in Borderline Personality Disorder, anxiety disorders, PTSD, self-harm, and oppositional adolescents.
My clients don't come to therapy to hear someone nod and agree with everything they say—that's not worth their time or money. They want real help. They want to know "what to do" and "how to fix it" because they're struggling with depression, severe anxiety, relationship problems, trauma, suicidal thoughts, parenting issues, and other painful situations. They are looking for a true expert that they can actually talk to. I am a member of PSYPACT which means I can see clients in every state that is a member of PSYPACT and I'm also licensed in MA.
(857) 271-4038 View (857) 271-4038
Photo of Kara Guindin, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kara Guindin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
Hi! I'm Kara with Wise Roots Therapy. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in treating perinatal mental health, complex trauma, mood concerns, & attachment wounds. My clients are often adults who have experienced trauma or are navigating concerns related to depression, anxiety, or interpersonal issues. I also recognize there is a special space needed for exploring pregnancy, infertility, loss, postpartum mood changes, and transitions into parenthood. I utilize a combination of approaches to help process painful experiences, explore new coping strategies, and increase resources to help you heal.
Hi! I'm Kara with Wise Roots Therapy. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in treating perinatal mental health, complex trauma, mood concerns, & attachment wounds. My clients are often adults who have experienced trauma or are navigating concerns related to depression, anxiety, or interpersonal issues. I also recognize there is a special space needed for exploring pregnancy, infertility, loss, postpartum mood changes, and transitions into parenthood. I utilize a combination of approaches to help process painful experiences, explore new coping strategies, and increase resources to help you heal.
(615) 551-3950 View (615) 551-3950
Photo of Stefanie Dedman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stefanie Dedman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been working in this field for over 10 years. I am passionate about working with people aiming to learn more about themselves, own their story, and make positive change toward a healthy life. I have experience in helping people with a wide range of issues including self-worth, trauma, mood disorders, anxiety problems, grief, addiction, and relationship issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been working in this field for over 10 years. I am passionate about working with people aiming to learn more about themselves, own their story, and make positive change toward a healthy life. I have experience in helping people with a wide range of issues including self-worth, trauma, mood disorders, anxiety problems, grief, addiction, and relationship issues.
(615) 265-1083 View (615) 265-1083
Photo of Sean C Harding - Exodus Counseling and Mentorship, Licensed Professional Counselor
Exodus Counseling and Mentorship
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Fairview, TN 37062  (Online Only)
Picking a counselor can feel scary, but the decision wont be made, until you make it. At EXODUS, we've seen the immense positive impact counseling, therapy, and mentorship can have on someone's life in their pursuit of stability, meaning, joy, fulfillment, and more.
Picking a counselor can feel scary, but the decision wont be made, until you make it. At EXODUS, we've seen the immense positive impact counseling, therapy, and mentorship can have on someone's life in their pursuit of stability, meaning, joy, fulfillment, and more.
(629) 276-5335 View (629) 276-5335
Photo of Molly Soper Yates, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Molly Soper Yates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212
Waitlist for new clients
Accepting new clients in Tennessee. I'm glad you're reaching out and hope we can work together. I've been an LCSW for 28 years and genuinely love connecting with people to develop skills that find greater stability, serenity and internal strength. Emphasizing strengths and resilience, while understanding larger patterns, working through trauma and developing skills to reduce anxiety, emotional reactions, relationship breakdown, substance abuse and overwhelm. I love building relationships with people to learn practices that can change self defeating patterns and live in a way that is more life giving, open, balanced and stable.
Accepting new clients in Tennessee. I'm glad you're reaching out and hope we can work together. I've been an LCSW for 28 years and genuinely love connecting with people to develop skills that find greater stability, serenity and internal strength. Emphasizing strengths and resilience, while understanding larger patterns, working through trauma and developing skills to reduce anxiety, emotional reactions, relationship breakdown, substance abuse and overwhelm. I love building relationships with people to learn practices that can change self defeating patterns and live in a way that is more life giving, open, balanced and stable.
(434) 326-4092 View (434) 326-4092
Photo of Megan Barbee, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan Barbee
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37207
I work with kids, adolescents, and adults who feel stuck; they are experiencing symptoms such as anxiety, depression, relationship problems, and disordered eating. Many have carried the weight of traumatic experiences for as long as they can remember. Many feel that they spend excess time worrying about food and their bodies and find it hard to engage fully in their lives. They continue to feel out of control of their relationships, their bodies, and their emotions. They feel numb and isolated on the surface, and deep down feel hurt and helpless.
I work with kids, adolescents, and adults who feel stuck; they are experiencing symptoms such as anxiety, depression, relationship problems, and disordered eating. Many have carried the weight of traumatic experiences for as long as they can remember. Many feel that they spend excess time worrying about food and their bodies and find it hard to engage fully in their lives. They continue to feel out of control of their relationships, their bodies, and their emotions. They feel numb and isolated on the surface, and deep down feel hurt and helpless.
(615) 326-6352 View (615) 326-6352
Photo of Kate Flannery, LPC, MHSP, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kate Flannery
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Juliet, TN 37122  (Online Only)
Welcome! I'm Kate, a therapist practicing in TN and CA. I have a passion for guiding individuals through life transitions and adjustments. With a deep understanding of the challenges that life transitions can bring, I am committed to walking alongside you during these moments of change and uncertainty. Together, we will work collaboratively to navigate life transitions, fostering personal growth, resilience, and healing. Whether you're adjusting to new life stages, managing unexpected changes, or seeking clarity and purpose, our sessions will encompass scientifically validated techniques and personal connection to promote healing.
Welcome! I'm Kate, a therapist practicing in TN and CA. I have a passion for guiding individuals through life transitions and adjustments. With a deep understanding of the challenges that life transitions can bring, I am committed to walking alongside you during these moments of change and uncertainty. Together, we will work collaboratively to navigate life transitions, fostering personal growth, resilience, and healing. Whether you're adjusting to new life stages, managing unexpected changes, or seeking clarity and purpose, our sessions will encompass scientifically validated techniques and personal connection to promote healing.
(615) 240-5298 View (615) 240-5298
Photo of Tim White, PhD, CMPC, ATC, CSCS, Psychologist
Tim White
Psychologist, PhD, CMPC, ATC, CSCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
At White House Sport Psychology we specialize in sports performance, sport psychology and mental health for athletes. We help athletes overcome challenges in and out of sport (i.e. mental blocks, performance anxiety, perfectionism, personal issues, etc). We'll help you focus on what is most important to you and teach you how to overcome the barriers that get in your way (e.g. stress, anxiety, relationships, etc.). This will include helping you gain a deeper understanding of your concerns as well as teaching you specific skills and strategies you can use to manage the challenges you face, and ultimately move toward your goals.
At White House Sport Psychology we specialize in sports performance, sport psychology and mental health for athletes. We help athletes overcome challenges in and out of sport (i.e. mental blocks, performance anxiety, perfectionism, personal issues, etc). We'll help you focus on what is most important to you and teach you how to overcome the barriers that get in your way (e.g. stress, anxiety, relationships, etc.). This will include helping you gain a deeper understanding of your concerns as well as teaching you specific skills and strategies you can use to manage the challenges you face, and ultimately move toward your goals.
(615) 802-4720 View (615) 802-4720
Photo of Angela Landry - Restoration Counseling Center, LMFT, LPC, MA, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist
Restoration Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, MA, CST
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37067
Restoration Counseling Center was founded by three Christian Counselors in Franklin, Tennessee, who share a vision for providing healing, grace, and professionalism to those experiencing brokenness in their relationship with self, others, and God. Our counselors have all been trained through nationally accredited counseling programs emphasizing Christian integration. Therapists at Restoration Counseling Center are passionate about helping others attain their goals and consider it a privilege to walk alongside others in healing. We have therapists accepting new clients for immediate openings.
Restoration Counseling Center was founded by three Christian Counselors in Franklin, Tennessee, who share a vision for providing healing, grace, and professionalism to those experiencing brokenness in their relationship with self, others, and God. Our counselors have all been trained through nationally accredited counseling programs emphasizing Christian integration. Therapists at Restoration Counseling Center are passionate about helping others attain their goals and consider it a privilege to walk alongside others in healing. We have therapists accepting new clients for immediate openings.
(615) 656-0432 View (615) 656-0432
Photo of Bessie Naomi Costanza, MSSW, LCSW, CMFSW, CCTP, AMTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bessie Naomi Costanza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW, CMFSW, CCTP, AMTP
Verified Verified
Clarksville, TN 37043
With compassion,insight and acceptance, I can help you explore the issues which prevent you from success in your personal and professional relationships. I believe that we all possess much of the knowledge needed to answer life's questions; however, as with all things, we sometimes simply forget where to look. I see my work primarily as a guide, helping my clients find their own answers and their own happiness.I view therapy as a way to gain self awareness in order to understand one's pattern of relating to others and dealing with life's challenges.
With compassion,insight and acceptance, I can help you explore the issues which prevent you from success in your personal and professional relationships. I believe that we all possess much of the knowledge needed to answer life's questions; however, as with all things, we sometimes simply forget where to look. I see my work primarily as a guide, helping my clients find their own answers and their own happiness.I view therapy as a way to gain self awareness in order to understand one's pattern of relating to others and dealing with life's challenges.
(931) 272-8594 View (931) 272-8594
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.