Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in Etobicoke, ON

Photo of Jennifer Wowk, Registered Social Worker in Etobicoke, ON
Jennifer Wowk
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Etobicoke, ON M9R
Jennifer specializes in supporting Parents, Partners and Caregivers of 18+ individuals who are living with Borderline Personality Disorder, Emotional Dysregulation and difficulties navigating Emerging Adulthood. Jennifer has extensive experience working with clients 18+ living with a variety of Mental Health concerns including Mood and Anxiety Disorders, Personality Disorders, Grief & Loss and Relationship and Life Transition concerns. Jennifer also works with artists and athletes dealing with Performance and/or Mental Health concerns. Jennifer's therapeutic approach is grounded in CBT and DBT and Solution-based therapy.
Jennifer specializes in supporting Parents, Partners and Caregivers of 18+ individuals who are living with Borderline Personality Disorder, Emotional Dysregulation and difficulties navigating Emerging Adulthood. Jennifer has extensive experience working with clients 18+ living with a variety of Mental Health concerns including Mood and Anxiety Disorders, Personality Disorders, Grief & Loss and Relationship and Life Transition concerns. Jennifer also works with artists and athletes dealing with Performance and/or Mental Health concerns. Jennifer's therapeutic approach is grounded in CBT and DBT and Solution-based therapy.
(365) 657-0007 View (365) 657-0007
Photo of Dr. Arela Agako, Psychologist in Etobicoke, ON
Dr. Arela Agako
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Etobicoke, ON M9R  (Online Only)
I provide a compassionate and inclusive environment for my clients. I have a special interest in working with individuals and couples who struggle with high conflict, Borderline Personality Disorder symptoms, emotion dysregulation, PTSD, trauma-related issues and intergenerational trauma. I also work with people who have other concerns such as anxiety, depression, mood-related disorders, insomnia, psychosis, obsessive-compulsive disorder, stress, burn-out, self-esteem, body image, perinatal concerns, hormonal sensitivities, as well as interpersonal and relationship difficulties.
I provide a compassionate and inclusive environment for my clients. I have a special interest in working with individuals and couples who struggle with high conflict, Borderline Personality Disorder symptoms, emotion dysregulation, PTSD, trauma-related issues and intergenerational trauma. I also work with people who have other concerns such as anxiety, depression, mood-related disorders, insomnia, psychosis, obsessive-compulsive disorder, stress, burn-out, self-esteem, body image, perinatal concerns, hormonal sensitivities, as well as interpersonal and relationship difficulties.
(365) 607-0756 View (365) 607-0756
Photo of Khatiza Bi, Registered Psychotherapist in Etobicoke, ON
Khatiza Bi Bi
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9B  (Online Only)
I specialize in supporting individuals and couples navigating trauma, relationships, addictions, bpd, anxiety and more.
Are your thoughts taking control? Not feeling yourself? Experienced something tough recently that you can't seem to get past? Going through family struggles, relationship conflict or communication breakdown? Or are you looking for help for a child or teen? Sometimes life struggles can become roadblocks that prevent us from working towards our goals and living our best, most fulfilling lives. As a therapist, I want to help you work through those roadblocks. I strive to provide a safe, nonjudgmental, and collaborative space to help you work through struggles, achieve your goals and get back to a fulfilling, meaningful life.
I specialize in supporting individuals and couples navigating trauma, relationships, addictions, bpd, anxiety and more.
Are your thoughts taking control? Not feeling yourself? Experienced something tough recently that you can't seem to get past? Going through family struggles, relationship conflict or communication breakdown? Or are you looking for help for a child or teen? Sometimes life struggles can become roadblocks that prevent us from working towards our goals and living our best, most fulfilling lives. As a therapist, I want to help you work through those roadblocks. I strive to provide a safe, nonjudgmental, and collaborative space to help you work through struggles, achieve your goals and get back to a fulfilling, meaningful life.
(365) 305-0182 View (365) 305-0182
Photo of Jess Erb, Centred Self Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist in Etobicoke, ON
Jess Erb, Centred Self Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, DPsych
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8V  (Online Only)
I specialize in any sort of (inter)personal trauma – including self-harm, eating distress, sexual, emotional, domestic, or physical abuse - and BPD.
If you're reading this, you've already made one of the bravest steps towards help and life-long change. One reason I started Centred Self Psychotherapy is because I wanted to ensure clients get incredible psychotherapists, who are self-aware, passionate & skilled. At Centred Self, we believe that psychotherapy is first and foremost about relationship – to be able to delve into even the scariest of topics with someone that you trust. We do not practice a ‘band-aid’ approach, but work to create lasting change, getting to the root of what's going on. We also offer Reduced Cost Therapy with our student clinic, and EMDR with Gina Lihou.
I specialize in any sort of (inter)personal trauma – including self-harm, eating distress, sexual, emotional, domestic, or physical abuse - and BPD.
If you're reading this, you've already made one of the bravest steps towards help and life-long change. One reason I started Centred Self Psychotherapy is because I wanted to ensure clients get incredible psychotherapists, who are self-aware, passionate & skilled. At Centred Self, we believe that psychotherapy is first and foremost about relationship – to be able to delve into even the scariest of topics with someone that you trust. We do not practice a ‘band-aid’ approach, but work to create lasting change, getting to the root of what's going on. We also offer Reduced Cost Therapy with our student clinic, and EMDR with Gina Lihou.
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Photo of Myah Izzard, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Etobicoke, ON
Myah Izzard
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BSc, MACP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9B
Reaching out for psychological help and support is a courageous and challenging first step. I’m happy you found your way here. I hold space for you to show up as your true and authentic self, and tailor treatment to your specific therapeutic needs and goals. Whether you’re living with depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, suicidal ideation, or struggling with shame, self-acceptance/self-esteem, relationships, or life transitions - this is a safe space to process and work through all that life has thrown your way.
Reaching out for psychological help and support is a courageous and challenging first step. I’m happy you found your way here. I hold space for you to show up as your true and authentic self, and tailor treatment to your specific therapeutic needs and goals. Whether you’re living with depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, suicidal ideation, or struggling with shame, self-acceptance/self-esteem, relationships, or life transitions - this is a safe space to process and work through all that life has thrown your way.
(289) 401-5348 View (289) 401-5348
Photo of Sarah Ann Tomaszewski, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Etobicoke, ON
Sarah Ann Tomaszewski
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8V
Accepting NEW Clients In-Person Mississauga & Online! Embarking on the journey of therapy is a courageous step, and I am honored that you are considering me as your partner in this transformative process. My commitment to fostering a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship is at the heart of my practice. I offer both individual and couples therapy for teens and adults treating a variety of issues and mental health problems including but not limited to, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, ADHD, PTSD, C-PTSD, BPD, OCD, Low Self-esteem, and Relationship/Family Conflicts. I'm a practicum student completing my supervised internship with H2R.
Accepting NEW Clients In-Person Mississauga & Online! Embarking on the journey of therapy is a courageous step, and I am honored that you are considering me as your partner in this transformative process. My commitment to fostering a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship is at the heart of my practice. I offer both individual and couples therapy for teens and adults treating a variety of issues and mental health problems including but not limited to, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, ADHD, PTSD, C-PTSD, BPD, OCD, Low Self-esteem, and Relationship/Family Conflicts. I'm a practicum student completing my supervised internship with H2R.
(289) 804-8259 View (289) 804-8259
Photo of Gray Matter Health -Brampton Psychotherapists, Registered Social Worker in Etobicoke, ON
Gray Matter Health -Brampton Psychotherapists
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8W
Sometimes we just can't do it on our own. Whether you have individual, couple, or family challenges, as a professional or first responder, life is so much more fulfilling when we can reach out for support to get through the rough patch. Our team has several years of experience working through trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, grief, conflict, OCD, BPD, bipolar disorder, anger, ADHD, dementia, burnout, or perinatal challenges in addition to so much more. If you're ready for a life change, we can help! Many of our clients have reached out to us for support and as a result have restored happiness & improved their quality of life.
Sometimes we just can't do it on our own. Whether you have individual, couple, or family challenges, as a professional or first responder, life is so much more fulfilling when we can reach out for support to get through the rough patch. Our team has several years of experience working through trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, grief, conflict, OCD, BPD, bipolar disorder, anger, ADHD, dementia, burnout, or perinatal challenges in addition to so much more. If you're ready for a life change, we can help! Many of our clients have reached out to us for support and as a result have restored happiness & improved their quality of life.
(289) 302-8255 View (289) 302-8255
Photo of Rupinder Multani, Registered Psychotherapist in Etobicoke, ON
Rupinder Multani
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8V
I support clients navigating trauma, ptsd, borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety and more.
Life can bring unpredictable and/or challenging moments in our lives, that may leave us feeling stagnant or unsure of how to move forward. If you're experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, or r other concerns with your mental well-being, you do not have to suffer alone. Perhaps you've experienced a past trauma that's got you stuck or unable to move forward. I'm here to support you in overcoming the challenges. It takes that one courageous step towards healing, that can bring the changes you desire to see in your life. If you're thinking about taking that step towards getting unstuck, let's take it together.
I support clients navigating trauma, ptsd, borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety and more.
Life can bring unpredictable and/or challenging moments in our lives, that may leave us feeling stagnant or unsure of how to move forward. If you're experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, or r other concerns with your mental well-being, you do not have to suffer alone. Perhaps you've experienced a past trauma that's got you stuck or unable to move forward. I'm here to support you in overcoming the challenges. It takes that one courageous step towards healing, that can bring the changes you desire to see in your life. If you're thinking about taking that step towards getting unstuck, let's take it together.
(365) 398-5030 View (365) 398-5030
Photo of Erin Pieper, Registered Social Worker in Etobicoke, ON
Erin Pieper
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Etobicoke, ON M9A
Hello, my name is Erin and I am a Registered Social Worker. I have an undergraduate degree in Psychology from the University of Waterloo and a Master of Social Work degree, which I completed at the University of Toronto. My career has been focused on supporting adults and youth with their mental health for the past 18+ years. I have worked in various community settings and have spent over a decade working in hospital-based eating disorder programs, supporting individuals with eating disorders, body image concerns, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and various life stressors.
Hello, my name is Erin and I am a Registered Social Worker. I have an undergraduate degree in Psychology from the University of Waterloo and a Master of Social Work degree, which I completed at the University of Toronto. My career has been focused on supporting adults and youth with their mental health for the past 18+ years. I have worked in various community settings and have spent over a decade working in hospital-based eating disorder programs, supporting individuals with eating disorders, body image concerns, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and various life stressors.
(289) 236-1207 View (289) 236-1207
Photo of Charlotte Pidgeon Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist in Etobicoke, ON
Charlotte Pidgeon Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8X  (Online Only)
Thank you for being here, we are excited to meet you! As a queer owned and operated therapy clinic, we use a collaborative approach that draws from your strengths and encourages positive change. We specialize in working with the queer community, and our therapists incorporate an anti-oppressive framework, focusing on gender and identity affirming care. Whether you're in the middle of a life transition, struggling to cope with the everyday, feeling detached from your identity, or ready to work on healing old wounds, you don't have to do it alone. We offer a range of services including individual, youth, couples, and low-cost therapy.
Thank you for being here, we are excited to meet you! As a queer owned and operated therapy clinic, we use a collaborative approach that draws from your strengths and encourages positive change. We specialize in working with the queer community, and our therapists incorporate an anti-oppressive framework, focusing on gender and identity affirming care. Whether you're in the middle of a life transition, struggling to cope with the everyday, feeling detached from your identity, or ready to work on healing old wounds, you don't have to do it alone. We offer a range of services including individual, youth, couples, and low-cost therapy.
(647) 370-1597 View (647) 370-1597
Photo of Azin Heydari, Registered Psychotherapist in Etobicoke, ON
Azin Heydari
Registered Psychotherapist, HBA, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9C
Offering In-Person and Virtual Sessions- Individuals who have experienced traumatic events or abuse often tend to invalidate or even deny their own experiences. While therapy aims to empower survivors to move past these adverse events, I believe we must cultivate a strong sense of self-compassion and curiosity about how these experiences have influenced our lives and experience of the world.
Offering In-Person and Virtual Sessions- Individuals who have experienced traumatic events or abuse often tend to invalidate or even deny their own experiences. While therapy aims to empower survivors to move past these adverse events, I believe we must cultivate a strong sense of self-compassion and curiosity about how these experiences have influenced our lives and experience of the world.
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Photo of Nina Chiodo, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Etobicoke, ON
Nina Chiodo
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9A  (Online Only)
Feelings of sadness, anger, loneliness, and hopelessness can make everyday life feel overwhelming. During these times, additional support can help you process, cope with, and overcome these challenges. Whether you're struggling with trauma, relational conflict, low self-esteem, chronic pain, or a mood disorder, I am here to help. With a background in human development, coupled with extensive experience working in physical rehabilitation, I use a holistic, non-pathologizing lens to facilitate client wellbeing. I aim to create a safe environment where we work together towards self-awareness, self-compassion, and emotional wellness.
Feelings of sadness, anger, loneliness, and hopelessness can make everyday life feel overwhelming. During these times, additional support can help you process, cope with, and overcome these challenges. Whether you're struggling with trauma, relational conflict, low self-esteem, chronic pain, or a mood disorder, I am here to help. With a background in human development, coupled with extensive experience working in physical rehabilitation, I use a holistic, non-pathologizing lens to facilitate client wellbeing. I aim to create a safe environment where we work together towards self-awareness, self-compassion, and emotional wellness.
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Photo of Will Birman, Psychologist in Etobicoke, ON
Will Birman
Psychologist, PsyD, CPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8X
The experience of being human can be a great challenge in our current world despite the conventional wisdom offering oversimplified solutions. Instead of relying on inadequate shortcuts, psychotherapy aims to address core sources of distress and discomfort to provoke more lasting development and deeper self-understanding.
The experience of being human can be a great challenge in our current world despite the conventional wisdom offering oversimplified solutions. Instead of relying on inadequate shortcuts, psychotherapy aims to address core sources of distress and discomfort to provoke more lasting development and deeper self-understanding.
(289) 210-7405 View (289) 210-7405
Photo of NKS Therapy, Counsellor in Etobicoke, ON
NKS Therapy
Counsellor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9B
Voted Top 5 in Toronto for Best Psychotherapists in 2021, NKS Therapy is a team of psychotherapists, marriage/family therapists, counsellors and life coaches in Toronto, Etobicoke, Mississauga, and Oakville who specialize in mental health support for adults, couples, teenagers, and families. With multiple experts on the NKS Therapy team, we will help you achieve your goals through a deeper understanding of yourself, and help you make conscious choices today. We offer sessions virtually & in-person. Start living a better life today with a FREE 15-minute therapy consultation! A Happier, Healthier, Better Version of Yourself awaits.
Voted Top 5 in Toronto for Best Psychotherapists in 2021, NKS Therapy is a team of psychotherapists, marriage/family therapists, counsellors and life coaches in Toronto, Etobicoke, Mississauga, and Oakville who specialize in mental health support for adults, couples, teenagers, and families. With multiple experts on the NKS Therapy team, we will help you achieve your goals through a deeper understanding of yourself, and help you make conscious choices today. We offer sessions virtually & in-person. Start living a better life today with a FREE 15-minute therapy consultation! A Happier, Healthier, Better Version of Yourself awaits.
(289) 206-7074 View (289) 206-7074
Photo of Morrigan (Wen) Cai, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Etobicoke, ON
Morrigan (Wen) Cai
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RPQ, CRPO, CAPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9B  (Online Only)
Therapy ver. Do you wanna build a snowman?-Knock, knock! Do you wanna feel better? Come on, let's talk. I am eager to meet you, please open the door. It's like you are isolating yourself. I know you’ve been feeling blue, and now it's time, I wish you would tell me why. Do you wanna feel better? It doesn't need to be better (feeling okay would be fine). Do you wanna feel better? Or have control over your life? I think some company is overdue, and I've started thinking of you! (Hang in there, gal/pal. ) The world gets a little lonely for people who don't ask for help, just watching time flying by.
Therapy ver. Do you wanna build a snowman?-Knock, knock! Do you wanna feel better? Come on, let's talk. I am eager to meet you, please open the door. It's like you are isolating yourself. I know you’ve been feeling blue, and now it's time, I wish you would tell me why. Do you wanna feel better? It doesn't need to be better (feeling okay would be fine). Do you wanna feel better? Or have control over your life? I think some company is overdue, and I've started thinking of you! (Hang in there, gal/pal. ) The world gets a little lonely for people who don't ask for help, just watching time flying by.
(365) 605-5462 View (365) 605-5462
Photo of Shakela Austin, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Etobicoke, ON
Shakela Austin
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9A
I approach therapy with a client-centred lens, that also is comprised of a culturally sensitive and socially just framework to uphold your values. I draw from cognitive behavioural therapy, narrative therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, somatic therapy as well as existential therapy as tools that allow me to assist you in your journey.
I approach therapy with a client-centred lens, that also is comprised of a culturally sensitive and socially just framework to uphold your values. I draw from cognitive behavioural therapy, narrative therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, somatic therapy as well as existential therapy as tools that allow me to assist you in your journey.
(289) 802-4471 View (289) 802-4471
Photo of Elizabeth Scarlett, Registered Psychotherapist in Etobicoke, ON
Elizabeth Scarlett
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8X
Waitlist for new clients
Viktor Frankl said: "When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves." Therapy isn't about getting the right answer, it's about making choices that move you forward. Many aspects of life are out of our control. If we focus on our decisions, we'll find greater contentment. Little shifts make a big difference. In my office, laughter, cursing, crying or yelling are welcome. I have curious questions, off-the-wall metaphors, and shift gears as required.
Viktor Frankl said: "When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves." Therapy isn't about getting the right answer, it's about making choices that move you forward. Many aspects of life are out of our control. If we focus on our decisions, we'll find greater contentment. Little shifts make a big difference. In my office, laughter, cursing, crying or yelling are welcome. I have curious questions, off-the-wall metaphors, and shift gears as required.
(647) 699-6853 View (647) 699-6853
Photo of Tamara Fernandez, Registered Psychotherapist in Etobicoke, ON
Tamara Fernandez
Registered Psychotherapist, BSc, MA
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8X
Life can bring with it successes and challenges; regardless of how we define it. Success allows for celebration while challenge allows for growth and opportunity to heal. We can experience a range of emotions including sadness, hurt, guilt, self-doubt, helplessness, hopelessness, anger, despair, anxiety, loneliness, and grief; which ultimately leave an impact on our well-being. But there is light at the end of the tunnel. YOU are enough and together we can heal. Therapy is exercise for our emotional well-being that kickstarts our journey of self-acceptance, autonomy, purpose in life, positive relations, and happiness.
Life can bring with it successes and challenges; regardless of how we define it. Success allows for celebration while challenge allows for growth and opportunity to heal. We can experience a range of emotions including sadness, hurt, guilt, self-doubt, helplessness, hopelessness, anger, despair, anxiety, loneliness, and grief; which ultimately leave an impact on our well-being. But there is light at the end of the tunnel. YOU are enough and together we can heal. Therapy is exercise for our emotional well-being that kickstarts our journey of self-acceptance, autonomy, purpose in life, positive relations, and happiness.
(289) 216-5888 View (289) 216-5888
Photo of Natasha Sharma, Counsellor in Etobicoke, ON
Natasha Sharma
Counsellor, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9B
Hi! I'm Natasha Sharma: Therapist, TEDx Speaker, and CEO of NKS Therapy. Do you feel sad, stressed out, irritable or angry? Do you feel unable to let go of things that happened in the past, or worry constantly about the future? Are you experiencing distress, anxiety or depressed mood? As we have seen with the COVID-19 pandemic, life can be challenging. And unpredictable We can't always control it but we can control how we experience & respond to it. At my clinic NKS Therapy we provide you the tools to identify your emotions & get control over them. We offer expert counselling therapy for individuals, couples/marriage, & families.
Hi! I'm Natasha Sharma: Therapist, TEDx Speaker, and CEO of NKS Therapy. Do you feel sad, stressed out, irritable or angry? Do you feel unable to let go of things that happened in the past, or worry constantly about the future? Are you experiencing distress, anxiety or depressed mood? As we have seen with the COVID-19 pandemic, life can be challenging. And unpredictable We can't always control it but we can control how we experience & respond to it. At my clinic NKS Therapy we provide you the tools to identify your emotions & get control over them. We offer expert counselling therapy for individuals, couples/marriage, & families.
(289) 207-4800 View (289) 207-4800
Photo of Break Free Family Centre in Etobicoke, ON
Break Free Family Centre
PhD, EdD, OACCPP, CPCA, OCA
Verified Verified
Etobicoke, ON M9W
I counsel children (16 years and older), youth, and adults through individual and or group sessions. I am in good standing and have been awarded Full membership with the designation of Registered Counsellor (RCC) with CPCA as well as a member in good standing of the Ontario Association of Consultants, Counsellors, Psychometrics and Psychotherapists (OACCPP), and Bereavement Ontario Network (BON). Canadian Addiction Counsellors (CACCF) I provide psychological services under the supervision of a Registered Psychologist of Dalton Associates. I work in collaboration with clients to build upon their strength(s) to solve family issues.
I counsel children (16 years and older), youth, and adults through individual and or group sessions. I am in good standing and have been awarded Full membership with the designation of Registered Counsellor (RCC) with CPCA as well as a member in good standing of the Ontario Association of Consultants, Counsellors, Psychometrics and Psychotherapists (OACCPP), and Bereavement Ontario Network (BON). Canadian Addiction Counsellors (CACCF) I provide psychological services under the supervision of a Registered Psychologist of Dalton Associates. I work in collaboration with clients to build upon their strength(s) to solve family issues.
(844) 332-2287 View (844) 332-2287

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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.