Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in West Toronto, Toronto, ON

Photo of Annie Chinneck, Psychologist in West Toronto, Toronto, ON
Annie Chinneck
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Toronto, Toronto, ON M6G
I treat adolescents and adults whose thoughts, emotions, behaviours, senses of self, and/or relationships are dysregulated. I use evidence-based therapies like Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and Prolonged Exposure (PE) – to support clients with borderline personality disorder (BPD), complex trauma, substance use, and other difficulties (like anxiety and depression). I balance acceptance and change-based strategies to reduce clients’ suffering and to make their lives more meaningful.
I treat adolescents and adults whose thoughts, emotions, behaviours, senses of self, and/or relationships are dysregulated. I use evidence-based therapies like Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and Prolonged Exposure (PE) – to support clients with borderline personality disorder (BPD), complex trauma, substance use, and other difficulties (like anxiety and depression). I balance acceptance and change-based strategies to reduce clients’ suffering and to make their lives more meaningful.
(647) 697-6433 View (647) 697-6433
Photo of The DBT Clinic, Psychologist in West Toronto, Toronto, ON
The DBT Clinic
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
West Toronto, Toronto, ON M6K  (Online Only)
People who benefit from DBT often struggle with Borderline Personality Disorder, suicidal thoughts or suicidal behaviour, self-harm, intense negative emotions, impulsive behaviours, substance abuse, anger management, relationship difficulties, chronic feelings of emptiness, and eating disorders, among other possible problems. Our team is dedicated to helping clients who struggle with their emotions to achieve less suffering and greater peace, and to build the lives they want to live.
People who benefit from DBT often struggle with Borderline Personality Disorder, suicidal thoughts or suicidal behaviour, self-harm, intense negative emotions, impulsive behaviours, substance abuse, anger management, relationship difficulties, chronic feelings of emptiness, and eating disorders, among other possible problems. Our team is dedicated to helping clients who struggle with their emotions to achieve less suffering and greater peace, and to build the lives they want to live.
(437) 747-5175 View (437) 747-5175
Photo of Shira Green- Equilibrium Mental Health And Wellness, Registered Social Worker in West Toronto, Toronto, ON
Shira Green- Equilibrium Mental Health And Wellness
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
West Toronto, Toronto, ON M6G
A strong and trusting relationship with your therapist is an important part of your therapy experience. My approach is non-judgmental, caring, authentic and collaborative. I will help you learn to validate your emotions, gain insight, and develop healthy coping strategies in order to achieve meaningful change. Since 2002, I’ve been helping individuals who struggle with a variety of difficulties stemming from emotion dysregulation including impulsivity, relationship conflict, self-harm, anxiety and depression. I have extensive experience from nearly 20 years as a therapist in the BPD clinic at CAMH where I primarily offered DBT.
A strong and trusting relationship with your therapist is an important part of your therapy experience. My approach is non-judgmental, caring, authentic and collaborative. I will help you learn to validate your emotions, gain insight, and develop healthy coping strategies in order to achieve meaningful change. Since 2002, I’ve been helping individuals who struggle with a variety of difficulties stemming from emotion dysregulation including impulsivity, relationship conflict, self-harm, anxiety and depression. I have extensive experience from nearly 20 years as a therapist in the BPD clinic at CAMH where I primarily offered DBT.
(647) 250-0188 View (647) 250-0188
Photo of Josh Spring - Equilibrium Mental Health And Wellness, Registered Social Worker in West Toronto, Toronto, ON
Josh Spring - Equilibrium Mental Health And Wellness
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Toronto, Toronto, ON M6G
Managing intense emotions, impulsive behaviours, and interpersonal relationships can, at times, feel incredibly challenging. I have extensive experience supporting clients with borderline personality disorder, mood and anxiety disorders, a history of trauma, and substance use challenges. I have worked specifically within the LGBTQ2S+ community, helping clients navigate sexuality, gender, and relationship issues.
Managing intense emotions, impulsive behaviours, and interpersonal relationships can, at times, feel incredibly challenging. I have extensive experience supporting clients with borderline personality disorder, mood and anxiety disorders, a history of trauma, and substance use challenges. I have worked specifically within the LGBTQ2S+ community, helping clients navigate sexuality, gender, and relationship issues.
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Photo of Lyndsey Davies, Registered Social Worker in West Toronto, Toronto, ON
Lyndsey Davies
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
West Toronto, Toronto, ON M6R
I am a clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience. I have worked primarily with individuals who have been diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder and/or experience overwhelming painful emotions and who have learned to cope by self harming, substance use and other types of impulsive behaviours. I have extensive training in working with trauma and am a Certified Prolonged Exposure therapist and Consultant. Many of the clients I work with are looking for practical help to deal with the present day difficulties that arise as a result of past unresolved issues.
I am a clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience. I have worked primarily with individuals who have been diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder and/or experience overwhelming painful emotions and who have learned to cope by self harming, substance use and other types of impulsive behaviours. I have extensive training in working with trauma and am a Certified Prolonged Exposure therapist and Consultant. Many of the clients I work with are looking for practical help to deal with the present day difficulties that arise as a result of past unresolved issues.
(647) 249-8457 View (647) 249-8457
Photo of Erin Orsztynova, RP, Registered Psychotherapist in West Toronto, Toronto, ON
Erin Orsztynova, RP
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
West Toronto, Toronto, ON M6K
Hi! A bit about me: I work predominantly with individuals who suffer from the effects of abuse and trauma and are ready to take steps on their therapeutic journey. I work with those who suffer from anxiety, low self-esteem or lack of sense of self, complex trauma, eating disorders, chronic relationship issues, sexual abuse, adult children of alcoholics, and BPD. If you do not identify with any of these words, that's okay too - I welcome any clients who is open to this work, and offer a free consultation or a first full session at a reduced rate to see if my personality and approach will be right for you.
Hi! A bit about me: I work predominantly with individuals who suffer from the effects of abuse and trauma and are ready to take steps on their therapeutic journey. I work with those who suffer from anxiety, low self-esteem or lack of sense of self, complex trauma, eating disorders, chronic relationship issues, sexual abuse, adult children of alcoholics, and BPD. If you do not identify with any of these words, that's okay too - I welcome any clients who is open to this work, and offer a free consultation or a first full session at a reduced rate to see if my personality and approach will be right for you.
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Photo of Skye Fitzpatrick, Psychologist in West Toronto, Toronto, ON
Skye Fitzpatrick
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Toronto, Toronto, ON M6P  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As a clinical psychologist and university professor who develops and tests therapies for trauma, borderline personality disorder/emotion dysregulation, and couples, I focus on getting people good therapy that actually works. Often, past traumas keep people stuck, intense or painful emotions like shame or anxiety make people’s lives feel closed in, and couples want to connect but find that something is persistently wedging them apart. I use science-supported methods to help people find freedom from these forms of suffering and live a life they choose for themselves instead of one that painful emotions or past traumas boxed them into.
As a clinical psychologist and university professor who develops and tests therapies for trauma, borderline personality disorder/emotion dysregulation, and couples, I focus on getting people good therapy that actually works. Often, past traumas keep people stuck, intense or painful emotions like shame or anxiety make people’s lives feel closed in, and couples want to connect but find that something is persistently wedging them apart. I use science-supported methods to help people find freedom from these forms of suffering and live a life they choose for themselves instead of one that painful emotions or past traumas boxed them into.
(647) 557-2953 View (647) 557-2953
Photo of Jennifer Wowk, Registered Social Worker in West Toronto, Toronto, ON
Jennifer Wowk
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
West Toronto, Toronto, ON M6G
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 Jennifer Fukushima, Registered Psychotherapist in West Toronto, Toronto, ON
Jennifer Fukushima
Registered Psychotherapist, OPC, Dipl, Psych
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
West Toronto, Toronto, ON M6H  (Online Only)
I embrace that the symptoms you are experiencing are part of a larger whole. Together, we can work to create healing, meaning and clarity for you, on a mental, emotional, somatic and spiritual level. Our sessions are informed by your unique position within time, culture and the fabric of our society. I am 2SLGBTQ aligned, ENM informed and work from a harm reduction, anti-capitalist, feminist lens. I have experience working with depression, anger, anxiety, self-esteem, relationships, people pleasing, life transitions, substance use, BPD and more. Consent is a big part therapy and I welcome your no, as much as I welcome your yes.
I embrace that the symptoms you are experiencing are part of a larger whole. Together, we can work to create healing, meaning and clarity for you, on a mental, emotional, somatic and spiritual level. Our sessions are informed by your unique position within time, culture and the fabric of our society. I am 2SLGBTQ aligned, ENM informed and work from a harm reduction, anti-capitalist, feminist lens. I have experience working with depression, anger, anxiety, self-esteem, relationships, people pleasing, life transitions, substance use, BPD and more. Consent is a big part therapy and I welcome your no, as much as I welcome your yes.
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Photo of Areeba I, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in West Toronto, Toronto, ON
Areeba I
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, MS PH, MB BS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Toronto, Toronto, ON M6J  (Online Only)
Specializing in childhood neglect, abuse, depression, anxiety, and personality disorders like BPD, I provide personalized guidance.
Welcome, and congratulations on starting or continuing your mental health journey. As a mental health helper, your journey is honoured, and your voice is cherished. I resonate deeply with those navigating identity, especially people of colour, immigrants, and LGBTQ+ individuals. I offer empathy and expertise from anxiety to trauma, fostering empowerment and self-understanding.
Specializing in childhood neglect, abuse, depression, anxiety, and personality disorders like BPD, I provide personalized guidance.
Welcome, and congratulations on starting or continuing your mental health journey. As a mental health helper, your journey is honoured, and your voice is cherished. I resonate deeply with those navigating identity, especially people of colour, immigrants, and LGBTQ+ individuals. I offer empathy and expertise from anxiety to trauma, fostering empowerment and self-understanding.
(289) 216-4339 View (289) 216-4339
Photo of Adriana Mancipe, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in West Toronto, Toronto, ON
Adriana Mancipe
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP (Q) , MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Toronto, Toronto, ON M6P  (Online Only)
My experience includes working with individuals who present with anxiety, self-esteem and attachment issues, depression, ADHD, BPD, autism, and matters related to migration and acculturation.
I’m a registered psychotherapist qualifying and I’m passionate about helping neurodivergent individuals who have been impacted by trauma and anxiety learn how to heal consciously. The majority of my practice focuses on helping my clients heal their emotional wounds, recover from trauma, overcome anxiety and depression, develop constructive coping strategies to alleviate distress, and guide and support them in navigating life transitions.
My experience includes working with individuals who present with anxiety, self-esteem and attachment issues, depression, ADHD, BPD, autism, and matters related to migration and acculturation.
I’m a registered psychotherapist qualifying and I’m passionate about helping neurodivergent individuals who have been impacted by trauma and anxiety learn how to heal consciously. The majority of my practice focuses on helping my clients heal their emotional wounds, recover from trauma, overcome anxiety and depression, develop constructive coping strategies to alleviate distress, and guide and support them in navigating life transitions.
(647) 370-2409 View (647) 370-2409
Photo of Fiona Downie, Psychologist in West Toronto, Toronto, ON
Fiona Downie
Psychologist, MEd, CPsych
Verified Verified
West Toronto, Toronto, ON M6S
As a Clinical Psychologist, registered with the College of Psychologists of Ontario, and the Newfoundland and Labrador Psychology Board, I provide assessment and therapy including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Prolonged Exposure (PE) and mindfulness based approaches, for a range of difficulties including eating disorders (e.g. anorexia, binge eating disorder), anxiety (e.g. panic disorder, social phobia), trauma (e.g. PTSD), depression, borderline personality disorder (BPD) and emotional dysregulation.
As a Clinical Psychologist, registered with the College of Psychologists of Ontario, and the Newfoundland and Labrador Psychology Board, I provide assessment and therapy including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Prolonged Exposure (PE) and mindfulness based approaches, for a range of difficulties including eating disorders (e.g. anorexia, binge eating disorder), anxiety (e.g. panic disorder, social phobia), trauma (e.g. PTSD), depression, borderline personality disorder (BPD) and emotional dysregulation.
(647) 492-5835 View (647) 492-5835
Photo of Cressida Frey, Registered Social Worker in West Toronto, Toronto, ON
Cressida Frey
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
West Toronto, Toronto, ON M6H  (Online Only)
Welcome. I'm a queer, non-binary, white therapist specializing in trauma therapy, BPD, ENM, and kink. I work with individuals and couples/constellations within queer and trans communities. Whenever you are on your journey, we begin by honouring the complexity of experiences that brought you here. From a place of empathy, tenderness, consent, and compassion, we address anxiety, stress, sadness, dissociation, grief, loss, rage, self-criticism, shame, and trauma that stem from interpersonal and systemic experiences of violence and oppression.
Welcome. I'm a queer, non-binary, white therapist specializing in trauma therapy, BPD, ENM, and kink. I work with individuals and couples/constellations within queer and trans communities. Whenever you are on your journey, we begin by honouring the complexity of experiences that brought you here. From a place of empathy, tenderness, consent, and compassion, we address anxiety, stress, sadness, dissociation, grief, loss, rage, self-criticism, shame, and trauma that stem from interpersonal and systemic experiences of violence and oppression.
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Photo of Caitlin Doherty, Registered Social Worker in West Toronto, Toronto, ON
Caitlin Doherty
Registered Social Worker, RSW, BSW, MA
Verified Verified
West Toronto, Toronto, ON M6H  (Online Only)
My name is Cait (she/they) and I am a registered social worker. I work with clients from where they are at, working collaboratively to figure out what challenges you, what you want to process and learn from. I am not here to tell you what to do, but to support in figuring out next steps, skills and processing trauma and life events. I work with clients to figure out what they need, their values, their identity and their boundaries. I work extensively with clients who are neurodivergent and/or have Bipolar Disorder or Borderline Personality Disorder, although I have experience with many mental health challenges.
My name is Cait (she/they) and I am a registered social worker. I work with clients from where they are at, working collaboratively to figure out what challenges you, what you want to process and learn from. I am not here to tell you what to do, but to support in figuring out next steps, skills and processing trauma and life events. I work with clients to figure out what they need, their values, their identity and their boundaries. I work extensively with clients who are neurodivergent and/or have Bipolar Disorder or Borderline Personality Disorder, although I have experience with many mental health challenges.
(289) 806-3368 View (289) 806-3368
Photo of Sarah Wash, Registered Social Worker in West Toronto, Toronto, ON
Sarah Wash
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
West Toronto, Toronto, ON M6S
Sarah specializes in working with adults (from ages 17+) who are experiencing challenges in their lives. With a background in community mental health, Sarah has supported clients with challenges including anxiety, low mood, borderline personality disorder, interpersonal stressors, grief and bereavement, trauma, and more. Sarah also has experience working with clients from diverse walks of life, including individuals who are neurodiverse, part of the LGBTQ2S+ community, and who come from various socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds.
Sarah specializes in working with adults (from ages 17+) who are experiencing challenges in their lives. With a background in community mental health, Sarah has supported clients with challenges including anxiety, low mood, borderline personality disorder, interpersonal stressors, grief and bereavement, trauma, and more. Sarah also has experience working with clients from diverse walks of life, including individuals who are neurodiverse, part of the LGBTQ2S+ community, and who come from various socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds.
(647) 490-1845 View (647) 490-1845
Photo of Myles Chisholm, Registered Psychotherapist in West Toronto, Toronto, ON
Myles Chisholm
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
West Toronto, Toronto, ON M6H  (Online Only)
With over a decade of experience in the field of psychotherapy, I have witnessed the transformative power of healing first-hand. My extensive training in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR) allows me to employ evidence-based techniques tailored to your unique needs. Throughout my career, I have successfully supported clients dealing with a wide range of challenges, including trauma, PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), developmental trauma, panic disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
With over a decade of experience in the field of psychotherapy, I have witnessed the transformative power of healing first-hand. My extensive training in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR) allows me to employ evidence-based techniques tailored to your unique needs. Throughout my career, I have successfully supported clients dealing with a wide range of challenges, including trauma, PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), developmental trauma, panic disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
(365) 645-9181 View (365) 645-9181
Photo of Dr. Christine Klinkhoff, Psychologist in West Toronto, Toronto, ON
Dr. Christine Klinkhoff
Psychologist, PsyD, CPsych
Verified Verified
West Toronto, Toronto, ON M6P
I am a registered clinical psychologist, licensed by the College of Psychologists of Ontario. Currently, I work with adolescents and adults and specialize in treating Mood and Anxiety disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, and Borderline Personality Disorder. I use the following evidence-based methods: Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention, and Prolonged Exposure.
I am a registered clinical psychologist, licensed by the College of Psychologists of Ontario. Currently, I work with adolescents and adults and specialize in treating Mood and Anxiety disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, and Borderline Personality Disorder. I use the following evidence-based methods: Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention, and Prolonged Exposure.
(647) 955-2934 View (647) 955-2934
Photo of Marcus Kupila, Registered Psychotherapist in West Toronto, Toronto, ON
Marcus Kupila
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP, CFRC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Toronto, Toronto, ON M6H
Significant experience with first responders, LGBTQ, substance abuse, Borderline Personality Disorder, and suicide/self-harm.
Currently offering remote sessions (video). Accepting new clients. I am a Clinical Supervisor. When most clients come to me they don't know where to start and they haven't been able to overcome their problems alone or with their friend's advice. My clients need someone to listen, someone who knows about the fake face, someone who can help them understand "why"; and help them find a way to get healthy. I have a Masters in Counseling Psychology from OISE UofT the University of Toronto where I learned to use research-supported methods to help clients be empowered. Clients are always the experts on themselves.
Significant experience with first responders, LGBTQ, substance abuse, Borderline Personality Disorder, and suicide/self-harm.
Currently offering remote sessions (video). Accepting new clients. I am a Clinical Supervisor. When most clients come to me they don't know where to start and they haven't been able to overcome their problems alone or with their friend's advice. My clients need someone to listen, someone who knows about the fake face, someone who can help them understand "why"; and help them find a way to get healthy. I have a Masters in Counseling Psychology from OISE UofT the University of Toronto where I learned to use research-supported methods to help clients be empowered. Clients are always the experts on themselves.
(647) 696-6437 View (647) 696-6437
Photo of Hannah Packer, Registered Psychotherapist in West Toronto, Toronto, ON
Hannah Packer
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, BA
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
West Toronto, Toronto, ON M6J
Are you feeling stuck, lacking motivation, or fatigued? Perhaps you feel irritable or anxious at work or with your relationships. Therapy can help you discover new ways to manage and cope with your symptoms while working to resolve trauma. It can be challenging to seek out therapy, and I commend you on taking the first step. I work with individuals who are experiencing difficulties related to their past and/or recent traumatic experiences. I have experience working with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, life transitions, work-related stress, BPD, family & relationship issues, and issues related to self-esteem.
Are you feeling stuck, lacking motivation, or fatigued? Perhaps you feel irritable or anxious at work or with your relationships. Therapy can help you discover new ways to manage and cope with your symptoms while working to resolve trauma. It can be challenging to seek out therapy, and I commend you on taking the first step. I work with individuals who are experiencing difficulties related to their past and/or recent traumatic experiences. I have experience working with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, life transitions, work-related stress, BPD, family & relationship issues, and issues related to self-esteem.
(437) 747-7038 View (437) 747-7038
Photo of Liora Barook, Registered Psychotherapist in West Toronto, Toronto, ON
Liora Barook
Registered Psychotherapist, Hons BA, MACP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
West Toronto, Toronto, ON M6J  (Online Only)
Are you looking to enhance your life and better manage stressors? Would you benefit from someone to support you while you navigate the difficulties you currently face? I strive to nurture safety and vulnerability in my clients so they are able to work through their emotional pain, defuse from their negative thoughts, develop coping skills and care for their overall mental health. I have experience working with women and men; teens, millennial and adults navigating anxiety, ADHD, depression, eating disorders, relationship issues, narcissistic parents or partners, and borderline personality disorder.
Are you looking to enhance your life and better manage stressors? Would you benefit from someone to support you while you navigate the difficulties you currently face? I strive to nurture safety and vulnerability in my clients so they are able to work through their emotional pain, defuse from their negative thoughts, develop coping skills and care for their overall mental health. I have experience working with women and men; teens, millennial and adults navigating anxiety, ADHD, depression, eating disorders, relationship issues, narcissistic parents or partners, and borderline personality disorder.
(365) 400-1343 View (365) 400-1343

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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.