Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in Bainbridge Island, WA

Photo of Jennifer Tillman, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Jennifer Tillman
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Jenny Tillman and I am currently accepting new clients for individual therapy services through Sound Resilience Health. I work with clients ages 15 and older struggling with anxiety, interpersonal conflicts, parenting challenges, depression, mood disorders and challenges surrounding eating behaviors, and self-harm.
Hello! My name is Jenny Tillman and I am currently accepting new clients for individual therapy services through Sound Resilience Health. I work with clients ages 15 and older struggling with anxiety, interpersonal conflicts, parenting challenges, depression, mood disorders and challenges surrounding eating behaviors, and self-harm.
(425) 748-8963 View (425) 748-8963
Photo of Paige Boren, MS, LMHC, CDP, Counselor
Paige Boren
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CDP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My professional orientation is very eclectic. I combine a Jungian philosophy with CBT and DBT interventions with a client centered approach that involves a caring and insightful focus on self, others and community. My intention is to collaborate fully with each individual and to assist him or her in changing the trajectory of his or her life in a positive way. I view self discovery as an essential part of our unfolding experience together and value our time together. To become an agent of change in one's own life takes tremendous courage and strength; I can help facilitate this.
My professional orientation is very eclectic. I combine a Jungian philosophy with CBT and DBT interventions with a client centered approach that involves a caring and insightful focus on self, others and community. My intention is to collaborate fully with each individual and to assist him or her in changing the trajectory of his or her life in a positive way. I view self discovery as an essential part of our unfolding experience together and value our time together. To become an agent of change in one's own life takes tremendous courage and strength; I can help facilitate this.
(206) 966-4380 View (206) 966-4380
Photo of William Gibson - Dr. William Gibson, Ph.D., PhD, MS, LMHCA, LCC, Counselor
Dr. William Gibson, Ph.D.
Counselor, PhD, MS, LMHCA, LCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
As a client-centered professional, I recognize the strength necessary for an individual to take the first step through the counselor's open door. Through trusting and empathetic positive relationship building, I join my clients in the exploration of a healthier, self-accepting perspective in addressing the challenging components of their life experience. All areas of my practice focus upon acceptance and healthy management of personal questions through the discovery of an enhanced understanding, within a positive environment, which utilizes personal strengths to contribute to a happier, self satisfying life experience. Come take this walk with me...
As a client-centered professional, I recognize the strength necessary for an individual to take the first step through the counselor's open door. Through trusting and empathetic positive relationship building, I join my clients in the exploration of a healthier, self-accepting perspective in addressing the challenging components of their life experience. All areas of my practice focus upon acceptance and healthy management of personal questions through the discovery of an enhanced understanding, within a positive environment, which utilizes personal strengths to contribute to a happier, self satisfying life experience. Come take this walk with me...
(206) 823-2954 View (206) 823-2954
Photo of Diane Heald Spengler, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Diane Heald Spengler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
If you are a woman in transition, or are feeling disheartened, depressed or stuck, I will give you assistance in identifying and uncovering your strengths, and recovering your joy of life! Or, if you are a member of a couple or family having difficulties, I will offer support and teach communication skills, which can deepen and enhance those relationships closest to you. It is often difficult to identify our stuck places and painful patterns. I have found that talking things through with someone with sound professional training and experience can offer new perspectives and life possibilities, allowing change to happen!
If you are a woman in transition, or are feeling disheartened, depressed or stuck, I will give you assistance in identifying and uncovering your strengths, and recovering your joy of life! Or, if you are a member of a couple or family having difficulties, I will offer support and teach communication skills, which can deepen and enhance those relationships closest to you. It is often difficult to identify our stuck places and painful patterns. I have found that talking things through with someone with sound professional training and experience can offer new perspectives and life possibilities, allowing change to happen!
(206) 823-3856 View (206) 823-3856
Photo of Manny Occhiogrosso - Mindscape Counseling, LMHC, Counselor
Mindscape Counseling
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
Clients who often have a successful experience with me are those who come with a readiness to self reflect and who want to create new possibilities for themselves based on meaning and purpose. They are open to the possibility of healing and are ready to write the next chapter in their life. I specialize in utilizing Eye-Movement Desensitization Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR for a wide range of mental health issues including, trauma, anxiety, panic, depression, and phobias.
Clients who often have a successful experience with me are those who come with a readiness to self reflect and who want to create new possibilities for themselves based on meaning and purpose. They are open to the possibility of healing and are ready to write the next chapter in their life. I specialize in utilizing Eye-Movement Desensitization Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR for a wide range of mental health issues including, trauma, anxiety, panic, depression, and phobias.
(253) 364-1101 View (253) 364-1101
Photo of Danny Donohue - Dr. Danny, MA, DMin, MHC, Counselor
Dr. Danny
Counselor, MA, DMin, MHC
Verified Verified
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
Who, really, is able to hear, feel, and see you . . . bless and name your glory and shame? Only those who continue to do their own courageous work of daring to be truly heard, felt, and seen. Simple but not easy! The journey, however, is worth it. Life changing . . . with the right guide, i.e., presence. A favorite quote comes to mind: "We all come into this world looking for someone looking for us." If that resonates with your heart (courageous or not) then I hope to hear from you. We might just be a good fit? Please email me at: drdanny(at)doc-danny(dot com). Or call: two-zero-six...four-two-nine...four-five-seven-nine.
Who, really, is able to hear, feel, and see you . . . bless and name your glory and shame? Only those who continue to do their own courageous work of daring to be truly heard, felt, and seen. Simple but not easy! The journey, however, is worth it. Life changing . . . with the right guide, i.e., presence. A favorite quote comes to mind: "We all come into this world looking for someone looking for us." If that resonates with your heart (courageous or not) then I hope to hear from you. We might just be a good fit? Please email me at: drdanny(at)doc-danny(dot com). Or call: two-zero-six...four-two-nine...four-five-seven-nine.
(206) 429-4579 View (206) 429-4579
Photo of Aubrey Lough, LMFT, SUDP, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Aubrey Lough
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, SUDP, MA
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience working with couples, families and individuals of all ages from a variety of cultures/ethnicities, socio-economic backgrounds, and religious beliefs, as well as LGBTQIA+. My approach is integrated, operating from a systems theory background, with a lens that is relational and informed by awareness of how societal factors impact experience. Working as a certified substance use disorder counselor, I address not only the individual user, but the impact of use on loved ones. I see change happening through shifts from a person seeing themselves as the problem to seeing themselves as a person up against a problem.
I have experience working with couples, families and individuals of all ages from a variety of cultures/ethnicities, socio-economic backgrounds, and religious beliefs, as well as LGBTQIA+. My approach is integrated, operating from a systems theory background, with a lens that is relational and informed by awareness of how societal factors impact experience. Working as a certified substance use disorder counselor, I address not only the individual user, but the impact of use on loved ones. I see change happening through shifts from a person seeing themselves as the problem to seeing themselves as a person up against a problem.
(206) 590-7235 View (206) 590-7235
Photo of Diane M Stuart - Diane M. Stuart, MSW, LICSW, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diane M. Stuart, MSW, LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
Waitlist for new clients
I work with men and women who are struggling with symptoms of depression and/ or anxiety, issues of grief and loss, compulsive eating, relationship/family and family-of-origin issues, as well as life-phase-transition issues. I am particularly attuned to how early life attachment relationships impact clients' interpersonal functioning as adults. Other special interest areas include working with clients with adrenal fatigue, individuals/ couples struggling with issues as related to fertility challenges and working with/ diagnosing clients with ADHD. I am qualified and licensed to conduct ADD/ADHD assessments and to assign a diagnosis accordingly.
I work with men and women who are struggling with symptoms of depression and/ or anxiety, issues of grief and loss, compulsive eating, relationship/family and family-of-origin issues, as well as life-phase-transition issues. I am particularly attuned to how early life attachment relationships impact clients' interpersonal functioning as adults. Other special interest areas include working with clients with adrenal fatigue, individuals/ couples struggling with issues as related to fertility challenges and working with/ diagnosing clients with ADHD. I am qualified and licensed to conduct ADD/ADHD assessments and to assign a diagnosis accordingly.
(206) 429-6843 View (206) 429-6843
Photo of Jean Tzou, PhD, LCP, APIT, Psychologist
Jean Tzou
Psychologist, PhD, LCP, APIT
Verified Verified
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110  (Online Only)
As a generalist, I work with individuals with a wide range of concerns from depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, bipolar, and addiction, to life problems in relationships, trauma, grief, loneliness, anger management, stress and career choices, etc... Clients get results with me because my approach is practical, creative, and empowering, and I work hard to help clients gain new tools to overcome their challenges. I am a licensed psychologist with over a decade of experience providing individual, couples, group counseling, psychological evaluations, and teaching/training in university settings. My style of therapy is warm, genuine, attentive, and sensitive to clients' unique needs.
As a generalist, I work with individuals with a wide range of concerns from depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, bipolar, and addiction, to life problems in relationships, trauma, grief, loneliness, anger management, stress and career choices, etc... Clients get results with me because my approach is practical, creative, and empowering, and I work hard to help clients gain new tools to overcome their challenges. I am a licensed psychologist with over a decade of experience providing individual, couples, group counseling, psychological evaluations, and teaching/training in university settings. My style of therapy is warm, genuine, attentive, and sensitive to clients' unique needs.
(312) 698-3095 View (312) 698-3095
Photo of Fredric Matteson, CMHC, Counselor
Fredric Matteson
Counselor, CMHC
Verified Verified
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
For 25 years I worked with over 16,000 suicidal patients on the mental health unit of St. Francis Hospital with my office partner, Psychiatrist Dr. Sunida Bintasan, From observing their common patterns, I created an educational program (for persons with issues of deep despair, hopelessness, depression, feeling "LOST" & "TRAPPED" & "STUCK", and often with recurrent suicidal thinking) called Contextual-Conceptual Therapy (CCT). Combining expressive arts techniques, education, and therapy using "maps, models, & metaphors", it helps clients discover the roots of their deep despair, feeling trapped & lost, and/or suicidal thinking.
For 25 years I worked with over 16,000 suicidal patients on the mental health unit of St. Francis Hospital with my office partner, Psychiatrist Dr. Sunida Bintasan, From observing their common patterns, I created an educational program (for persons with issues of deep despair, hopelessness, depression, feeling "LOST" & "TRAPPED" & "STUCK", and often with recurrent suicidal thinking) called Contextual-Conceptual Therapy (CCT). Combining expressive arts techniques, education, and therapy using "maps, models, & metaphors", it helps clients discover the roots of their deep despair, feeling trapped & lost, and/or suicidal thinking.
(206) 966-6954 View (206) 966-6954

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kris Bryant, MA, LMHC, LCPC, Counselor
Kris Bryant
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LCPC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Dialectical Behavior Therapy is the gold standard treatment for Borderline Personality Disorder and many other mental health concerns.
You live on an emotional roller coaster. You can't keep friends or a job. Hurting yourself feels better than hurting others. You question whether your life is worth living. Perhaps you diagnosed yourself on the internet or your doctor told you that you need something called "DBT." DBT is what I live and breathe.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy is the gold standard treatment for Borderline Personality Disorder and many other mental health concerns.
You live on an emotional roller coaster. You can't keep friends or a job. Hurting yourself feels better than hurting others. You question whether your life is worth living. Perhaps you diagnosed yourself on the internet or your doctor told you that you need something called "DBT." DBT is what I live and breathe.
(405) 759-4178 View (405) 759-4178
Photo of Shawnna M Robinson, MA, LMHC
Shawnna M Robinson
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101
My areas of focus are preteens, teens, and adults. I specialize with borderline personality disorder, anxiety, depression, autism, ADHD, eating disorders, trauma, parenting concerns, family conflict, and self-esteem issues. I work with individuals 10 years old and up. Sessions are focused on your unique needs. Interventions are engaged that will help foster a healthy sense of self and promote healing. My session is a safe space with acceptance at the core. I am humbled to join with an individual and support them in their life story. In our sessions, your voice will be honored and used as a resource to obtain your goals.
My areas of focus are preteens, teens, and adults. I specialize with borderline personality disorder, anxiety, depression, autism, ADHD, eating disorders, trauma, parenting concerns, family conflict, and self-esteem issues. I work with individuals 10 years old and up. Sessions are focused on your unique needs. Interventions are engaged that will help foster a healthy sense of self and promote healing. My session is a safe space with acceptance at the core. I am humbled to join with an individual and support them in their life story. In our sessions, your voice will be honored and used as a resource to obtain your goals.
(425) 215-1322 View (425) 215-1322
Photo of Nikki Gorman, MA, LMHC, LPC-MH, LPCC, Counselor
Nikki Gorman
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC-MH, LPCC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
Empathetic therapist offering compassion and healing; helping to build resilience through skill building, trauma work, and self-discovery. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space for individuals to explore and process behaviors, thoughts, and feelings that can lead to isolation, anger, relationship strain, anxiety, panic, depression, self-harm, and suicidal ideations. With a strengths-based approach, empowering clients to reclaim a sense of control and restore self-confidence. Specializing in trauma, religious trauma, borderline personality, anxiety, depression, sexual health, postpartum, LGBTQIA+ support, EMDR, CBT, and DBT trained.
Empathetic therapist offering compassion and healing; helping to build resilience through skill building, trauma work, and self-discovery. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space for individuals to explore and process behaviors, thoughts, and feelings that can lead to isolation, anger, relationship strain, anxiety, panic, depression, self-harm, and suicidal ideations. With a strengths-based approach, empowering clients to reclaim a sense of control and restore self-confidence. Specializing in trauma, religious trauma, borderline personality, anxiety, depression, sexual health, postpartum, LGBTQIA+ support, EMDR, CBT, and DBT trained.
(360) 227-0789 View (360) 227-0789
Photo of Melody McKibbin, LMHC, Counselor
Melody McKibbin
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
Hi there! My name is Melody McKibbin, and I an LMHC. I attended Amberton University and have been practicing therapy for 3 years. I am certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. My specialties are Borderline Personality Disorder, Grief, Depression, Anxiety and faith-based counseling. Let's work together to help you build a life worth living.I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, my cats, and writing fiction in my free time.
Hi there! My name is Melody McKibbin, and I an LMHC. I attended Amberton University and have been practicing therapy for 3 years. I am certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. My specialties are Borderline Personality Disorder, Grief, Depression, Anxiety and faith-based counseling. Let's work together to help you build a life worth living.I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, my cats, and writing fiction in my free time.
(509) 519-4236 View (509) 519-4236
Photo of Bil Kareta, MAPC, LMHC, SD, Counselor
Bil Kareta
Counselor, MAPC, LMHC, SD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98117
Therapy with Individuals: I use cognitive behavioral methods to treat depression, thought disorders, borderline personality disorders, substance abuse, trauma, and anxiety.
Life is a difficult and confusing journey for all of us. Occasionally we get "stuck" along the path. Sometimes that growth is blocked because of issues, patterns and behaviors from the past which affect the way we feel, do or react in the present. If you are experiencing issues such as depression, anxiety, stress and relationship concerns. I can offer you: a combination of heart, skill, and understanding to help you find your own solutions to these problems that face you. Through the use of solution-oriented, emotionally focused, and reality based techniques, can help you and your relationships overcome obstacles and achieve your goals.
Therapy with Individuals: I use cognitive behavioral methods to treat depression, thought disorders, borderline personality disorders, substance abuse, trauma, and anxiety.
Life is a difficult and confusing journey for all of us. Occasionally we get "stuck" along the path. Sometimes that growth is blocked because of issues, patterns and behaviors from the past which affect the way we feel, do or react in the present. If you are experiencing issues such as depression, anxiety, stress and relationship concerns. I can offer you: a combination of heart, skill, and understanding to help you find your own solutions to these problems that face you. Through the use of solution-oriented, emotionally focused, and reality based techniques, can help you and your relationships overcome obstacles and achieve your goals.
(206) 557-6792 View (206) 557-6792
Photo of Miranda Sullivan, MSW, LICSW, SUDPT, MHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Miranda Sullivan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, SUDPT, MHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98133  (Online Only)
My expertise is with complex trauma, Borderline, depression, neurodiversity, anxiety, substance use, mood disorders, and depression.
I have been in the mental health and social service field for 10 years. My passion is working with adolescents and adults with complex trauma, depression and anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, and borderline. When clients come to me they are often going through some of the toughest moments of their lives. They are confused, vulnerable, desperate for something to change. I take a very individualized approach and walk with my clients in partnership towards their goals, healing, a recovery. The client therapist relationship is sacred and I am so honored to have the privilege to serve you and bare witness to your story.
My expertise is with complex trauma, Borderline, depression, neurodiversity, anxiety, substance use, mood disorders, and depression.
I have been in the mental health and social service field for 10 years. My passion is working with adolescents and adults with complex trauma, depression and anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, and borderline. When clients come to me they are often going through some of the toughest moments of their lives. They are confused, vulnerable, desperate for something to change. I take a very individualized approach and walk with my clients in partnership towards their goals, healing, a recovery. The client therapist relationship is sacred and I am so honored to have the privilege to serve you and bare witness to your story.
(206) 339-5562 View (206) 339-5562
Photo of Joy Holt Hilliker - Joy Holt Hilliker Psychotherapy & Consultation, BA, MA, MACP, LMHC, Counselor
Joy Holt Hilliker Psychotherapy & Consultation
Counselor, BA, MA, MACP, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98127  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with adult children of Narcissists/those partnered w/a Narcissist as well as those impacted by BPD.
Seeking therapy can be a daunting process, while also being one step toward greater wholeness/healing. Relationship is where we are both wounded and healed. I work with individuals seeking relief from distressing symptoms such as; demanding too much of yourself, finding it hard to trust self, trust your own experience, self-soothing through addictive behaviors, pleasing others at your own expense, anxiety, depression, CPTSD. Our patterns of relating develop early within our first attachments, so our journey might include visiting some of those relationships to wonder how they impact you in the here and now.
I specialize in working with adult children of Narcissists/those partnered w/a Narcissist as well as those impacted by BPD.
Seeking therapy can be a daunting process, while also being one step toward greater wholeness/healing. Relationship is where we are both wounded and healed. I work with individuals seeking relief from distressing symptoms such as; demanding too much of yourself, finding it hard to trust self, trust your own experience, self-soothing through addictive behaviors, pleasing others at your own expense, anxiety, depression, CPTSD. Our patterns of relating develop early within our first attachments, so our journey might include visiting some of those relationships to wonder how they impact you in the here and now.
(206) 866-6213 View (206) 866-6213
Photo of Audrey Comber, LSWAIC, PPSC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Audrey Comber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC, PPSC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98121  (Online Only)
If you have struggled with trauma related to childhood abuse, dysfunction, attachment issues; and/or interpersonal violence (domestic abuse, sexual abuse) I can help! I also specialize in helping clients diagnosed with BPD unpack and heal their underlying trauma. In working with me, you will learn how to HEAL your trauma without constant use of coping skills to dull the pain. First session is free.
If you have struggled with trauma related to childhood abuse, dysfunction, attachment issues; and/or interpersonal violence (domestic abuse, sexual abuse) I can help! I also specialize in helping clients diagnosed with BPD unpack and heal their underlying trauma. In working with me, you will learn how to HEAL your trauma without constant use of coping skills to dull the pain. First session is free.
(425) 470-5882 View (425) 470-5882
Photo of Alison Fasolino - Pacific Eating Disorder Counseling, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Pacific Eating Disorder Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98109  (Online Only)
Welcome! Whether you are seeking help for the first time or have been working on this for a while, I want to help support you through it. I work with clients to improve their relationship to food, their body, and their emotions. I help clients build solutions to unwanted thoughts and behaviors through coping skills, processing, and allowing space for all emotions. I utilize a variety of therapeutic modalities to explore, such as CBT, DBT, and expressive arts therapy. I work to provide healing not only from EDs but also trauma, ptsd, anxiety, depression, and BPD. I welcome clients to bring whatever they need to sessions!
Welcome! Whether you are seeking help for the first time or have been working on this for a while, I want to help support you through it. I work with clients to improve their relationship to food, their body, and their emotions. I help clients build solutions to unwanted thoughts and behaviors through coping skills, processing, and allowing space for all emotions. I utilize a variety of therapeutic modalities to explore, such as CBT, DBT, and expressive arts therapy. I work to provide healing not only from EDs but also trauma, ptsd, anxiety, depression, and BPD. I welcome clients to bring whatever they need to sessions!
(425) 546-0989 View (425) 546-0989
Photo of Brent Potter, PhD, PhD , PsyD , Counselor
Brent Potter
Counselor, PhD, PhD , PsyD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
I am a psychotherapist and psychoanalyst with 30+ years of direct experience. I have worked with diverse populations, and Washington State endorses me as a Child Mental Health Specialist and Ethnic Minority Mental Health Specialist (Native and African American populations). I hold licenses in multiple states in both mental health as well as chemical dependency. I am the author of multiple Amazon best-sellers including 'Elements of Self-Destruction', ' Borderline Personality Disorder' (co-authored with Jacquie Gunn), and 'Elements of Reparation'. Above all, I am a proud father of two and a husband.
I am a psychotherapist and psychoanalyst with 30+ years of direct experience. I have worked with diverse populations, and Washington State endorses me as a Child Mental Health Specialist and Ethnic Minority Mental Health Specialist (Native and African American populations). I hold licenses in multiple states in both mental health as well as chemical dependency. I am the author of multiple Amazon best-sellers including 'Elements of Self-Destruction', ' Borderline Personality Disorder' (co-authored with Jacquie Gunn), and 'Elements of Reparation'. Above all, I am a proud father of two and a husband.
(206) 558-6391 View (206) 558-6391

See more therapy options for Bainbridge Island

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.