Borderline Personality (BPD) Counselling in Alexandria, NSW

Photo of Eka Goh - Luka | Counselling & Positive Behaviour Support, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Luka | Counselling & Positive Behaviour Support
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Serves Area
My approach is you-centered, which means whilst I would try to gently initiate explorations, you, the client, are always in the driver's seat. Further, my stance on providing trauma-informed care includes acknowledging that some of our pasts can still be a place too hard to revisit, too unbearable to face. I affirm that to do a deep work together does not necessarily need a revisit the gory details of your traumatic past. Still, trauma is a shadow with many faces; people also process differently. So when you'd wish & your safety toolkit is in place, I will be walking with you through every step of opening that can.
My approach is you-centered, which means whilst I would try to gently initiate explorations, you, the client, are always in the driver's seat. Further, my stance on providing trauma-informed care includes acknowledging that some of our pasts can still be a place too hard to revisit, too unbearable to face. I affirm that to do a deep work together does not necessarily need a revisit the gory details of your traumatic past. Still, trauma is a shadow with many faces; people also process differently. So when you'd wish & your safety toolkit is in place, I will be walking with you through every step of opening that can.
(02) 9100 0459 View (02) 9100 0459
Photo of Tal Schlosser - MyLife Psychologists, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
MyLife Psychologists
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Alexandria, NSW 2015
Our experienced Clinical Psychologists help adults and adolescents (16+) in overcoming mental health challenges. We know life can be tough, and everyone deserves compassionate and professional guidance. At MyLife Psychologists, we're dedicated to helping you achieve your goals. We take the time to understand your unique needs and preferences, ensuring you’re matched with the most appropriate clinician who can provide tailored, compassionate care. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of the next steps to take, we're here to help. It’s important to us that you feel heard and understood – and that you’re not alone.
Our experienced Clinical Psychologists help adults and adolescents (16+) in overcoming mental health challenges. We know life can be tough, and everyone deserves compassionate and professional guidance. At MyLife Psychologists, we're dedicated to helping you achieve your goals. We take the time to understand your unique needs and preferences, ensuring you’re matched with the most appropriate clinician who can provide tailored, compassionate care. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of the next steps to take, we're here to help. It’s important to us that you feel heard and understood – and that you’re not alone.
(02) 9100 0547 View (02) 9100 0547
Photo of Tom Xia, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Tom Xia
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Alexandria, NSW 2015
“The best therapeutic experience comes from combining cutting-edge psychology with a great trusting partnership. I find it deeply meaningful to empower you, and celebrate your success as you become the best version of yourself. In the therapy room I create a space where you can open up to your vulnerabilities without fear of judgement, and my style is collaborative, relaxed and compassionate. Over my career, I’ve sought out and honed a range of therapeutic skills so that I can match my offering to what best suits you. My hope is pass on the blueprint to understanding, coping and overcoming challenges both now and in the future"
“The best therapeutic experience comes from combining cutting-edge psychology with a great trusting partnership. I find it deeply meaningful to empower you, and celebrate your success as you become the best version of yourself. In the therapy room I create a space where you can open up to your vulnerabilities without fear of judgement, and my style is collaborative, relaxed and compassionate. Over my career, I’ve sought out and honed a range of therapeutic skills so that I can match my offering to what best suits you. My hope is pass on the blueprint to understanding, coping and overcoming challenges both now and in the future"
(02) 9100 0920 View (02) 9100 0920
Photo of Elizabeth Chikako Crouch, Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Elizabeth Chikako Crouch
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Serves Area
Therapy can be a big step and decision and it is important that your therapist is someone you feel safe and supported by, that you are respected and so are your strengths and capacities. I work in a holistic and supportive way working with clients to heal, and achieve the outcomes that they choose. I have worked for a number of years with survivors of childhood sexual assault, adult sexual assault, intimate partner and other violence and also work with those who use violence.
Therapy can be a big step and decision and it is important that your therapist is someone you feel safe and supported by, that you are respected and so are your strengths and capacities. I work in a holistic and supportive way working with clients to heal, and achieve the outcomes that they choose. I have worked for a number of years with survivors of childhood sexual assault, adult sexual assault, intimate partner and other violence and also work with those who use violence.
(02) 8294 6092 View (02) 8294 6092
Photo of Sagar Aadarsh, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Sagar Aadarsh
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Heya, I’m Sagar! I understand how nerve-wracking it can be to walk into a psychologist’s office. That’s why I aim to be warm, empathetic and approachable, to build a genuine relationship as the foundation of our therapeutic process. I work across the lifespan, and I love helping clients navigate those big life changes— adolescence into adulthood; career into retirement; or any of those big, overwhelming events that seem to just come with life. My approach is to give clients insight into their thoughts & emotions, warmth and space to help process and heal, then collaboratively create tools and strategies to lay problems to rest.
Heya, I’m Sagar! I understand how nerve-wracking it can be to walk into a psychologist’s office. That’s why I aim to be warm, empathetic and approachable, to build a genuine relationship as the foundation of our therapeutic process. I work across the lifespan, and I love helping clients navigate those big life changes— adolescence into adulthood; career into retirement; or any of those big, overwhelming events that seem to just come with life. My approach is to give clients insight into their thoughts & emotions, warmth and space to help process and heal, then collaboratively create tools and strategies to lay problems to rest.
(08) 7008 7438 View (08) 7008 7438
Photo of Julie Chapman - Julie Chapman Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Julie Chapman Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I love my work. I have been a practicing Psychologist for the last 13 years, working in addictions and trauma in public health. I have worked with people from a variety of backgrounds, which has given me a thorough understanding of the complexity of problems that people experience. My skill lies in helping people understand the issues they bring to therapy, so that we can work together on evidence based solutions to solve them. I also like to think that I bring a friendly and personable approach to this process, making therapy a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
I love my work. I have been a practicing Psychologist for the last 13 years, working in addictions and trauma in public health. I have worked with people from a variety of backgrounds, which has given me a thorough understanding of the complexity of problems that people experience. My skill lies in helping people understand the issues they bring to therapy, so that we can work together on evidence based solutions to solve them. I also like to think that I bring a friendly and personable approach to this process, making therapy a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
(02) 9160 3209 View (02) 9160 3209
Photo of Jamie De Bruyn, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Jamie De Bruyn
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Im passionate about helping people restore their sense of self-worth and confidence in order to regain control over their lives. I work with a wide variety of adults and adolescents in crisis, and people experiencing ongoing mental health issues (such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD) as a result of adversity, trauma, and violence. I empower individuals who have experienced adversity and oppression, through exploring existing competencies, strengths and inherent resilience. I’m person-centred, flexible and practical, ensuring you feel supported, and your individual needs are addressed in a non-judgemental and open environment.
Im passionate about helping people restore their sense of self-worth and confidence in order to regain control over their lives. I work with a wide variety of adults and adolescents in crisis, and people experiencing ongoing mental health issues (such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD) as a result of adversity, trauma, and violence. I empower individuals who have experienced adversity and oppression, through exploring existing competencies, strengths and inherent resilience. I’m person-centred, flexible and practical, ensuring you feel supported, and your individual needs are addressed in a non-judgemental and open environment.
(02) 7201 5086 View (02) 7201 5086
Photo of Renee Davies, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Renee Davies
Psychotherapist, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
At Elemental, Renée’s personal approach creates an environment where each person feels supported, connected, and understood. She believes that our sense of self and our interpersonal relationships are vital to our overall well-being. Relationships can shape who we are, how we see the world, and how we feel about ourselves. At the heart of our human experience lies the need for connection. Renée values diversity and cherishes the richness and creativity that our differences bring to our lives. She loves working with people of all sexual preferences, sex and gender identities, cultural backgrounds, and relationship types and styles.
At Elemental, Renée’s personal approach creates an environment where each person feels supported, connected, and understood. She believes that our sense of self and our interpersonal relationships are vital to our overall well-being. Relationships can shape who we are, how we see the world, and how we feel about ourselves. At the heart of our human experience lies the need for connection. Renée values diversity and cherishes the richness and creativity that our differences bring to our lives. She loves working with people of all sexual preferences, sex and gender identities, cultural backgrounds, and relationship types and styles.
(02) 9100 0327 View (02) 9100 0327
Raelene Hartman
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Raelene is a Clinical Psychologist with over 28 years of experience in helping adults with a wide range of psychological presentations including trauma, anxiety and mood disorders, emotional dysregulation, adjustment issues, alcohol and drug addiction, relationship challenges, workplace stress/burnout and personality disorders. She has worked in a range of areas including community mental health, private practice and organisational settings.
Raelene is a Clinical Psychologist with over 28 years of experience in helping adults with a wide range of psychological presentations including trauma, anxiety and mood disorders, emotional dysregulation, adjustment issues, alcohol and drug addiction, relationship challenges, workplace stress/burnout and personality disorders. She has worked in a range of areas including community mental health, private practice and organisational settings.
(02) 9100 0905 View (02) 9100 0905
Photo of Patrick Eid, Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Patrick Eid
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi, I'm Patrick. I'm a clinical psychologist passionate about offering thoughtful, affirming care for people who are navigating life with depth, insight, and complexity. As a Queer person from a culturally diverse background, I know how hard it can be to find a therapist who truly understands identity, intersectionality, and the broader systems we move through. My practice is built on the belief that mental health support should feel safe, empowering, and free from judgment. I enjoy working with people who are self-reflective, curious, and ready to invest in their growth.
Hi, I'm Patrick. I'm a clinical psychologist passionate about offering thoughtful, affirming care for people who are navigating life with depth, insight, and complexity. As a Queer person from a culturally diverse background, I know how hard it can be to find a therapist who truly understands identity, intersectionality, and the broader systems we move through. My practice is built on the belief that mental health support should feel safe, empowering, and free from judgment. I enjoy working with people who are self-reflective, curious, and ready to invest in their growth.
(02) 8322 9090 View (02) 8322 9090
Photo of Felicity Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Felicity Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I've spent my counselling career in grief and loss, supporting clients through illness, bereavement, caring, and the various losses that come with major life transitions. I'm not into toxic positivity – sometimes life really is hard – but I can offer a space to laugh and cry and rage and vent, and find ways together to keep moving forward.
I've spent my counselling career in grief and loss, supporting clients through illness, bereavement, caring, and the various losses that come with major life transitions. I'm not into toxic positivity – sometimes life really is hard – but I can offer a space to laugh and cry and rage and vent, and find ways together to keep moving forward.
0422 126 557 View 0422 126 557
Photo of Shiraze Bulsara - The Sydney Psychology Practice, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
The Sydney Psychology Practice
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
The Sydney Psychology Practice is focused on supporting clients to make sustainable change. Our team has extensive experience with a diverse range of clients and concerns, and using treatments with demonstrated research efficacy.
The Sydney Psychology Practice is focused on supporting clients to make sustainable change. Our team has extensive experience with a diverse range of clients and concerns, and using treatments with demonstrated research efficacy.
(02) 9100 0631 View (02) 9100 0631

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Shareen Birges
Shareen Birges
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parramatta, NSW 2150
Waitlist for new clients
I specialise in mental health, trauma (including childhood trauma & sexual abuse/assault), domestic violence, parenting, cancer & chronic illness, offending behaviour, & BPD.
I have been a counsellor, case manager & youth worker since 2008. Prior to 2016 I worked primarily with young people & their families, however I can & have worked with people across the age spectrum, all with unique & varied needs. Counselling is an individual experience & I want you to feel that no matter what, your needs are important. This is why I aim to provide an accessible, affordable & sustainable service. I believe I can help you on your journey towards the best version of yourself. Contact me for a free 15 minute phone consult & see if you agree.
I specialise in mental health, trauma (including childhood trauma & sexual abuse/assault), domestic violence, parenting, cancer & chronic illness, offending behaviour, & BPD.
I have been a counsellor, case manager & youth worker since 2008. Prior to 2016 I worked primarily with young people & their families, however I can & have worked with people across the age spectrum, all with unique & varied needs. Counselling is an individual experience & I want you to feel that no matter what, your needs are important. This is why I aim to provide an accessible, affordable & sustainable service. I believe I can help you on your journey towards the best version of yourself. Contact me for a free 15 minute phone consult & see if you agree.
(02) 9159 6730 View (02) 9159 6730
Photo of Cate Simpson, Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Cate Simpson
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Serves Area
Many of my clients have difficulty in managing emotions and personal relationships and may have been diagnosed with Complex Trauma, Dissociative disorders or BPD but people also come to see me for many other reasons as well.
I am pretty laid back and I will work to help you to feel as comfortable and 'safe' as possible in our work together. I utilise a 'parts' or 'Internal Family Systems' approach to trauma therapy. Mindfulness, curiosity and self compassion become the cornerstone of developing self awareness and self acceptance of all our parts fostering growth and healing.
Many of my clients have difficulty in managing emotions and personal relationships and may have been diagnosed with Complex Trauma, Dissociative disorders or BPD but people also come to see me for many other reasons as well.
I am pretty laid back and I will work to help you to feel as comfortable and 'safe' as possible in our work together. I utilise a 'parts' or 'Internal Family Systems' approach to trauma therapy. Mindfulness, curiosity and self compassion become the cornerstone of developing self awareness and self acceptance of all our parts fostering growth and healing.
(08) 7078 8218 View (08) 7078 8218
Photo of Andrea Middling: Living Free Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Andrea Middling: Living Free Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Areas I am passionate to work with Adolescents (14 yrs and above) & Adults, Couples and Families, Trauma & dissociation, EMDR, Hypnosis, Depression, Anxiety, Personality disorders (including BPD), Eating issues, Addictions, ASD, ADHD, Assessments & Court reports
NOW accepting NEW clients & HAVE availability! “I offer trauma informed therapy in a safe and non- judgemental space, so you can work through whatever difficulties you are experiencing, live more mindfully and embrace your inner strengths & resources.” My style is warm and empathic, though I can challenge respectfully when needed. I regard the therapeutic relationship as team work and appreciate that it takes significant courage to reach for counselling.
Areas I am passionate to work with Adolescents (14 yrs and above) & Adults, Couples and Families, Trauma & dissociation, EMDR, Hypnosis, Depression, Anxiety, Personality disorders (including BPD), Eating issues, Addictions, ASD, ADHD, Assessments & Court reports
NOW accepting NEW clients & HAVE availability! “I offer trauma informed therapy in a safe and non- judgemental space, so you can work through whatever difficulties you are experiencing, live more mindfully and embrace your inner strengths & resources.” My style is warm and empathic, though I can challenge respectfully when needed. I regard the therapeutic relationship as team work and appreciate that it takes significant courage to reach for counselling.
(07) 3214 3678 View (07) 3214 3678
Photo of Sally Walsh, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Sally Walsh
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Online Only
I am Trauma Informed Certified in some latest research, well tested and evidence based models which are useful many ways including BPD and DID, addressing the affects of a lifetime of trauma.
Immediately Available - No Waitlist - Registered Clinical Psychotherapist and Registered Mental Health Practitioner. Are you overwhelmed, anxious or depressed or seeking practical support? Are you struggling with an issue on your own? We can work this out together to help you feel more in control. I can help you see your situation more clearly with talking therapy and somatically integrating body/mind experiences for emotional distress support for anxiety, depression and trauma (CPTSD) ie. brain intervention (7-8 sessions). Relationship struggles ? including narcissism tendencies or sex issues (emotional, physical or sexual).
I am Trauma Informed Certified in some latest research, well tested and evidence based models which are useful many ways including BPD and DID, addressing the affects of a lifetime of trauma.
Immediately Available - No Waitlist - Registered Clinical Psychotherapist and Registered Mental Health Practitioner. Are you overwhelmed, anxious or depressed or seeking practical support? Are you struggling with an issue on your own? We can work this out together to help you feel more in control. I can help you see your situation more clearly with talking therapy and somatically integrating body/mind experiences for emotional distress support for anxiety, depression and trauma (CPTSD) ie. brain intervention (7-8 sessions). Relationship struggles ? including narcissism tendencies or sex issues (emotional, physical or sexual).
(02) 9100 0123 View (02) 9100 0123
Photo of Dr Heather Gan, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Heather Gan
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Surry Hills, NSW 2010
I work with clients with cultural issues, anxiety, and BPD.
Based in Surry Hills, NSW, I work exclusively with adults who are seeking support for anxiety, borderline personality disorder, and Asian mental health. I provide a culturally sensitive, safe space to explore past experiences and unmet needs that contribute to maladaptive coping and interpersonal difficulties. My ideal client is ready to break free from unhelpful cycles, gain insight into their emotions, and build healthier relationships. Together, we work towards building insight, healing past emotional wounds, and adopting helpful coping mechanisms to achieve a more balanced, authentic, and connected life.
I work with clients with cultural issues, anxiety, and BPD.
Based in Surry Hills, NSW, I work exclusively with adults who are seeking support for anxiety, borderline personality disorder, and Asian mental health. I provide a culturally sensitive, safe space to explore past experiences and unmet needs that contribute to maladaptive coping and interpersonal difficulties. My ideal client is ready to break free from unhelpful cycles, gain insight into their emotions, and build healthier relationships. Together, we work towards building insight, healing past emotional wounds, and adopting helpful coping mechanisms to achieve a more balanced, authentic, and connected life.
(02) 9159 6010 View (02) 9159 6010
Photo of Adam Horvath, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Adam Horvath
Psychologist, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
North Sydney, NSW 2060
I have a special interest in supporting people with navigating intense emotions, work stress, BPD, OCD, adolescent mental health challenges, self-harm, school refusal, anxiety, depression.
Hello, I'm Adam, a Clinical Psychologist in North Sydney. I support professionals, adolescents, families, and couples with their mental health and relationships. My philosophy is that therapy should create meaningful changes swiftly, and I will assist you to reach your goals with a straightforward and no-nonsense approach. In our sessions, we’ll use practical, evidence-based strategies to work through issues you might encounter, such as difficulty with managing emotions, feelings of sorrow or worry, or moments when you might feel stuck. My practice is about creating a supportive and inclusive environment for everyone.
I have a special interest in supporting people with navigating intense emotions, work stress, BPD, OCD, adolescent mental health challenges, self-harm, school refusal, anxiety, depression.
Hello, I'm Adam, a Clinical Psychologist in North Sydney. I support professionals, adolescents, families, and couples with their mental health and relationships. My philosophy is that therapy should create meaningful changes swiftly, and I will assist you to reach your goals with a straightforward and no-nonsense approach. In our sessions, we’ll use practical, evidence-based strategies to work through issues you might encounter, such as difficulty with managing emotions, feelings of sorrow or worry, or moments when you might feel stuck. My practice is about creating a supportive and inclusive environment for everyone.
(02) 9100 0498 View (02) 9100 0498
Photo of Sharleen Gonzalez, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Sharleen Gonzalez
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Online Only
I'm a clinical psychologist who works with adults across a diverse range of mental health issues, I have a particular interest in trauma, grief, relationship issues, depression, life transitions (such as separation), multicultural populations, personality disorders (such as helping people who struggle with BPD traits or helping people manage difficult relationships with individuals with narcissistic traits or help them recover after narcissistic abuse), and dissociative disorders such as DID.
I prioritise a strengths-based and emotion-focused approach when working with clients. I draw primarily on techniques from cognitive behaviour therapy, schema therapy, internal family systems (IFS) and dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT). Treatment is tailored to you and your needs.
I'm a clinical psychologist who works with adults across a diverse range of mental health issues, I have a particular interest in trauma, grief, relationship issues, depression, life transitions (such as separation), multicultural populations, personality disorders (such as helping people who struggle with BPD traits or helping people manage difficult relationships with individuals with narcissistic traits or help them recover after narcissistic abuse), and dissociative disorders such as DID.
I prioritise a strengths-based and emotion-focused approach when working with clients. I draw primarily on techniques from cognitive behaviour therapy, schema therapy, internal family systems (IFS) and dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT). Treatment is tailored to you and your needs.
(02) 4012 2512 View (02) 4012 2512
Photo of Kenneth Love - Kenneth Love - People Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Kenneth Love - People Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Online Only
Get help by seeing Ken, who has extensive experience with: Depression Anxiety Disorders Panic Attacks Anger Management Complex trauma including PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) Stress Adjustment Disorders Early Attachment Borderline Personality Disorder ( BPD) Phobias (fear of specific things/situations) Grief and Loss Domestic Violence and Domestic Abuse Sexual Abuse Sexual Assault Psychological Counselling and Support to First Responders Victims of Crime Coping with Pain and Pain Management Meaning and Purpose Life Transitions Somatic Symptom Disorders Dissociative Identity Disorder Mood Disorders
Kenneth Love is an AHPRA registered psychologist specialising in trauma treatment and recovery and post-trauma growth. He can also help you with a wide range of other emotional and mental health concerns. Ken is a caring, person centred therapist who places honesty, trust, openness and respect at the centre of his relationship with you
Get help by seeing Ken, who has extensive experience with: Depression Anxiety Disorders Panic Attacks Anger Management Complex trauma including PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) Stress Adjustment Disorders Early Attachment Borderline Personality Disorder ( BPD) Phobias (fear of specific things/situations) Grief and Loss Domestic Violence and Domestic Abuse Sexual Abuse Sexual Assault Psychological Counselling and Support to First Responders Victims of Crime Coping with Pain and Pain Management Meaning and Purpose Life Transitions Somatic Symptom Disorders Dissociative Identity Disorder Mood Disorders
Kenneth Love is an AHPRA registered psychologist specialising in trauma treatment and recovery and post-trauma growth. He can also help you with a wide range of other emotional and mental health concerns. Ken is a caring, person centred therapist who places honesty, trust, openness and respect at the centre of his relationship with you
(03) 9133 0996 View (03) 9133 0996
Borderline Personality (BPD) Counsellors

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.