Borderline Personality (BPD) Psychiatrists in Greenfield, MA

Photo of Roma Estevez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Greenfield, MA
Roma Estevez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenfield, MA 01301
Welcome to Riverview Practice, a psychiatric concierge practice offering a range of personalized services. I aim to provide comprehensive support, including psychiatric evaluations, medication management, supportive therapy, second opinions, treatment plans, and referrals. I understand that decisions about medication – whether to start, continue, or discontinue – are deeply personal and can have significant health implications. Your well-being is my priority, and I am committed to guiding you through these choices with expertise, care and empathy.
Welcome to Riverview Practice, a psychiatric concierge practice offering a range of personalized services. I aim to provide comprehensive support, including psychiatric evaluations, medication management, supportive therapy, second opinions, treatment plans, and referrals. I understand that decisions about medication – whether to start, continue, or discontinue – are deeply personal and can have significant health implications. Your well-being is my priority, and I am committed to guiding you through these choices with expertise, care and empathy.
(413) 489-5543 View (413) 489-5543

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Dr. Yveda Brutus, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Greenfield, MA
Dr. Yveda Brutus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMNHPBC, AGPCNPB, APRN, RN
Verified Verified
Canton, MA 02021
I have extensive experience in treating comprehensive psychiatric disorders, including Depression, Anxiety Disorders, Social Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, Bipolar Disorders, Eating Disorders, behavioral issues, Borderline Personality, Alcohol Use, Alzheimer's Disease, Sleep difficulty, and Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum Depression just to name a few.
My name is Dr. Yveda Brutus DNP. I graduated from UMass Chan Medical School in Worcester. I am a dual-Board-Certified NP specializes in PMHNP and AGPCNP, and I have more than 5 years of experience in practice. I adhere to a comprehensive care framework that incorporates both medical and psychiatric disciplines. My goal is to provide treatment to individuals suffering from complex psychiatric disorders in regaining control of their lives. My approach is based on the importance of human connections, comprehending the reasons behind their symptoms, and honoring the individual’s power and voice in their treatment and overall well-being.
I have extensive experience in treating comprehensive psychiatric disorders, including Depression, Anxiety Disorders, Social Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, Bipolar Disorders, Eating Disorders, behavioral issues, Borderline Personality, Alcohol Use, Alzheimer's Disease, Sleep difficulty, and Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum Depression just to name a few.
My name is Dr. Yveda Brutus DNP. I graduated from UMass Chan Medical School in Worcester. I am a dual-Board-Certified NP specializes in PMHNP and AGPCNP, and I have more than 5 years of experience in practice. I adhere to a comprehensive care framework that incorporates both medical and psychiatric disciplines. My goal is to provide treatment to individuals suffering from complex psychiatric disorders in regaining control of their lives. My approach is based on the importance of human connections, comprehending the reasons behind their symptoms, and honoring the individual’s power and voice in their treatment and overall well-being.
(781) 549-9214 x100 View (781) 549-9214 x100
Diligence healthcare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Stoughton, MA 02072
Asperger's, addiction, Depression, Anxiety, Panic disorder, Schizophrenia, Bipolar, Borderline personality Disorder .
DHC is a multidisciplinary group providing a total and comprehensive outpatients behavioral health and psychiatric care to all ages. We recognize and appreciate our patients cultural, religious and social differences . We have a team of experienced staff, (doctors, NP, Therapist, etc) that are professional and sensitive to our patients individual differences, diagnosis and therefore offer care that is individualized using best scientific and evidence based methods that is suitable to every patient accurate diagnosis. we are currently accepting most insurance with no waiting list, and Weekend appointments are available.
Asperger's, addiction, Depression, Anxiety, Panic disorder, Schizophrenia, Bipolar, Borderline personality Disorder .
DHC is a multidisciplinary group providing a total and comprehensive outpatients behavioral health and psychiatric care to all ages. We recognize and appreciate our patients cultural, religious and social differences . We have a team of experienced staff, (doctors, NP, Therapist, etc) that are professional and sensitive to our patients individual differences, diagnosis and therefore offer care that is individualized using best scientific and evidence based methods that is suitable to every patient accurate diagnosis. we are currently accepting most insurance with no waiting list, and Weekend appointments are available.
(781) 404-3213 View (781) 404-3213
Photo of Goldline Health and Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Greenfield, MA
Goldline Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Attleboro, MA 02703  (Online Only)
We also specialize in treating depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, insomnia, schizophrenia and OCD.
Group practice that specializes in medication management. We are accepting new clients in RI, MA & CT. Our practice is a medication management practice that provides med management services to children, adolescents and adults with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, thought disorders and other psychiatric conditions. We are a group of 3 nurse practitioners who specialize in psychiatric treatment, we are caring, compassionate and great listeners.
We also specialize in treating depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, insomnia, schizophrenia and OCD.
Group practice that specializes in medication management. We are accepting new clients in RI, MA & CT. Our practice is a medication management practice that provides med management services to children, adolescents and adults with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, thought disorders and other psychiatric conditions. We are a group of 3 nurse practitioners who specialize in psychiatric treatment, we are caring, compassionate and great listeners.
(401) 337-7493 View (401) 337-7493
Photo of Francisca Ojei, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Greenfield, MA
Francisca Ojei
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Brockton, MA 02301
I've worked with vast ethnic groups, with people who suffer from chronic mental illness such as Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective, DID, Bipolar, Borderline personality disorder, Substance abuse problem, Anxiety disorder, ADHD, ADD, Social anxiety, Forensic patient, Anger and explosive disorder, PTSD, Autism, OCD, Dementia, and ETC.
As a keen practitioner, my journey to helping humanity began 11 years ago after graduating with my Bachelors in Nursing, I dedicated 5 years in serving underserved communities in urban and rural areas, worked in a pediatric facility and top Major Hospitals in Boston. Then I decided to complete my Masters in Nursing at Regis College 5 years ago focusing in internal medication. Mental health medicine caught my attention after working in a methadone and suboxone clinic. I further pursed my interest by working at SouthBay for over 2 years, now at Boston Neurobehavioral Associates for almost 2 years.
I've worked with vast ethnic groups, with people who suffer from chronic mental illness such as Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective, DID, Bipolar, Borderline personality disorder, Substance abuse problem, Anxiety disorder, ADHD, ADD, Social anxiety, Forensic patient, Anger and explosive disorder, PTSD, Autism, OCD, Dementia, and ETC.
As a keen practitioner, my journey to helping humanity began 11 years ago after graduating with my Bachelors in Nursing, I dedicated 5 years in serving underserved communities in urban and rural areas, worked in a pediatric facility and top Major Hospitals in Boston. Then I decided to complete my Masters in Nursing at Regis College 5 years ago focusing in internal medication. Mental health medicine caught my attention after working in a methadone and suboxone clinic. I further pursed my interest by working at SouthBay for over 2 years, now at Boston Neurobehavioral Associates for almost 2 years.
(774) 332-5563 View (774) 332-5563
Photo of Adom Fermanian, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Greenfield, MA
Adom Fermanian
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
South Easton, MA 02375  (Online Only)
Adom Fermanian is a board certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who treats patients aged 18 and older. He helps patients address a variety of mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, schizophrenia, borderline personality disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorder. Adom specializes in providing psychiatric evaluations and medication management, with the inclusion of ancillary supportive psychotherapy.
Adom Fermanian is a board certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who treats patients aged 18 and older. He helps patients address a variety of mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, schizophrenia, borderline personality disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorder. Adom specializes in providing psychiatric evaluations and medication management, with the inclusion of ancillary supportive psychotherapy.
(508) 290-4297 View (508) 290-4297
Photo of Jessica Kolczewski, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Greenfield, MA
Jessica Kolczewski
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
Randolph, MA 02368  (Online Only)
Are you looking for someone who can both prescribe medications and be present and listen to your experience? I value the importance of combining therapeutic techniques with medication management. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, with 14 years of nursing experience. I treat a variety of patients, including those suffering from trauma, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, borderline personality disorder and suicidal or self injurious behaviors. On a part time basis, I have a "co-therapist" named Bella. She is trained as a therapy dog for the purpose of providing animal assisted therapy.
Are you looking for someone who can both prescribe medications and be present and listen to your experience? I value the importance of combining therapeutic techniques with medication management. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, with 14 years of nursing experience. I treat a variety of patients, including those suffering from trauma, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, borderline personality disorder and suicidal or self injurious behaviors. On a part time basis, I have a "co-therapist" named Bella. She is trained as a therapy dog for the purpose of providing animal assisted therapy.
(617) 208-4410 View (617) 208-4410
Photo of Day To Day Psychiatric Care & Wellness PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Greenfield, MA
Day To Day Psychiatric Care & Wellness PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Stoughton, MA 02072
I work with ages 6 to 75 and specialize in Depression, Bipolar Illness, Anxiety Disorders, Psychotic Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Aggression, Eating Disorder, and Post-traumatic Stress Disorder.
Dr. Jimmy Pacombe is a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He graduated from Regis College with his Doctoral in Nursing Practice. His goal is to alleviate your suffering and simplify your life through natural empathy, compassion, intuition, and the negotiation of appropriate treatments.
I work with ages 6 to 75 and specialize in Depression, Bipolar Illness, Anxiety Disorders, Psychotic Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Aggression, Eating Disorder, and Post-traumatic Stress Disorder.
Dr. Jimmy Pacombe is a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He graduated from Regis College with his Doctoral in Nursing Practice. His goal is to alleviate your suffering and simplify your life through natural empathy, compassion, intuition, and the negotiation of appropriate treatments.
(781) 462-9642 View (781) 462-9642
Photo of Lauren Wenzl, Physician Assistant in Greenfield, MA
Lauren Wenzl
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Framingham, MA 01702  (Online Only)
I have specialized in psychiatry for the last 3 years helping patients with Addiction/Substance Use Disorders, Bipolar, Depression, Anxiety Disorders, BPD, PTSD and more.
My name is Lauren Wenzl, I am a certified Physician Assistant specializing in Psychiatric-Mental Health. In 2016 I achieved a Masters Degree in Physician Assistance from Keiser University and now have 7 years practice experience. I have come to understand that all of us need someone to listen to our concerns. Someone who listens without judging, offers empathy, compassion, and lends an ear to our struggles can make a significant impact in our mental health. My goal is to provide that relief to my patients through talk, recommendations, medications, or therapeutic care guidance.
I have specialized in psychiatry for the last 3 years helping patients with Addiction/Substance Use Disorders, Bipolar, Depression, Anxiety Disorders, BPD, PTSD and more.
My name is Lauren Wenzl, I am a certified Physician Assistant specializing in Psychiatric-Mental Health. In 2016 I achieved a Masters Degree in Physician Assistance from Keiser University and now have 7 years practice experience. I have come to understand that all of us need someone to listen to our concerns. Someone who listens without judging, offers empathy, compassion, and lends an ear to our struggles can make a significant impact in our mental health. My goal is to provide that relief to my patients through talk, recommendations, medications, or therapeutic care guidance.
(508) 213-0843 View (508) 213-0843
Photo of Hillary Woodworth, Psychiatrist in Greenfield, MA
Hillary Woodworth
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Lexington, MA 02420
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist offering both medication and therapy services for a variety of mental health concerns. I completed my residency training at Massachusetts General/McLean Hospital and am currently appointed as an attending psychiatrist and instructor at Harvard Medical School. In addition to treating common mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, and bipolar disorder, I have specialized training in the treatment of borderline personality disorder (BPD), as well as individuals with chronic gastrointestinal symptoms.
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist offering both medication and therapy services for a variety of mental health concerns. I completed my residency training at Massachusetts General/McLean Hospital and am currently appointed as an attending psychiatrist and instructor at Harvard Medical School. In addition to treating common mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, and bipolar disorder, I have specialized training in the treatment of borderline personality disorder (BPD), as well as individuals with chronic gastrointestinal symptoms.
(617) 798-9619 View (617) 798-9619
Photo of Anna Roglieri, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Greenfield, MA
Anna Roglieri
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHCNS, MSN
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116
We have the power to improve our mental health. We can choose what to think about and challenge & reframe our thoughts; live by our own values rather than by others' expectations; focus outward to create purpose, surround ourselves with good people and good energy. Nourishing and honoring our bodies with food and exercise, and, connecting with our fellow beings, can produce and release chemicals that make us feel good. Even the ability to activate our parasympathetic or calming nervous system is within our control, with a few simple techniques. We already have the tools to thrive in life. I would love to help you uncover them.
We have the power to improve our mental health. We can choose what to think about and challenge & reframe our thoughts; live by our own values rather than by others' expectations; focus outward to create purpose, surround ourselves with good people and good energy. Nourishing and honoring our bodies with food and exercise, and, connecting with our fellow beings, can produce and release chemicals that make us feel good. Even the ability to activate our parasympathetic or calming nervous system is within our control, with a few simple techniques. We already have the tools to thrive in life. I would love to help you uncover them.
(617) 766-3288 View (617) 766-3288
Photo of Wilmot lambert, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Greenfield, MA
Wilmot lambert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Randolph, MA 02368  (Online Only)
I believe good mental health is the corner stone in every person's life. In todays hectic and chaotic world we sometimes neglect taking care of our own mental health which can lead to burnout and psychological decompensation. Addressing mental health concerns is important in order to prevent emotional and physical problems. Having someone to talk to who genuinely cares and listens with an empathetic ear promotes therapeutic alliance and aids in stress recovery. At times medication support can assist with recovery and having a knowledgeable clinician working with you along the way can make the process less burdensome.
I believe good mental health is the corner stone in every person's life. In todays hectic and chaotic world we sometimes neglect taking care of our own mental health which can lead to burnout and psychological decompensation. Addressing mental health concerns is important in order to prevent emotional and physical problems. Having someone to talk to who genuinely cares and listens with an empathetic ear promotes therapeutic alliance and aids in stress recovery. At times medication support can assist with recovery and having a knowledgeable clinician working with you along the way can make the process less burdensome.
(203) 318-9159 View (203) 318-9159
Photo of Maria Jose Lisotto, Psychiatrist in Greenfield, MA
Maria Jose Lisotto
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02445  (Online Only)
I am a Harvard-trained, Harvard-affiliated, board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist. I strongly believe that the best psychiatric care is centered on the whole person, not just on a diagnosis or specific medication. I provide weekly therapy and work with patients to determine if medications can be of help. I do not believe that everyone needs a medication, but they can be useful in treating particular psychiatric symptoms; I will work with you in order to find the best treatment modality that meets your goals and needs.
I am a Harvard-trained, Harvard-affiliated, board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist. I strongly believe that the best psychiatric care is centered on the whole person, not just on a diagnosis or specific medication. I provide weekly therapy and work with patients to determine if medications can be of help. I do not believe that everyone needs a medication, but they can be useful in treating particular psychiatric symptoms; I will work with you in order to find the best treatment modality that meets your goals and needs.
(617) 209-6196 View (617) 209-6196
Photo of Margaret Hughes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Greenfield, MA
Margaret Hughes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CPNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Melrose, MA 02176  (Online Only)
Margaret Hughes, CPNP, PMHNP is a dual-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and pediatric nurse practitioner. After completing a Master's in Nursing (pediatrics) from Yale University, she provided medical care to children and adolescents at Mattapan Community Health Center and subsequently to college students at Northeastern University Health Center. Her passion for mental health has led her to obtain an additional degree as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner.
Margaret Hughes, CPNP, PMHNP is a dual-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and pediatric nurse practitioner. After completing a Master's in Nursing (pediatrics) from Yale University, she provided medical care to children and adolescents at Mattapan Community Health Center and subsequently to college students at Northeastern University Health Center. Her passion for mental health has led her to obtain an additional degree as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner.
(617) 712-2391 View (617) 712-2391
Photo of Holistic Well, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Greenfield, MA
Holistic Well
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116
I am interested in helping individuals across the lifespan explore suitable, person-centered treatment options for anxiety, depression and PTSD find the right combination of medication management and psychotherapy. I offer medication management, supportive therapy DBT and behavioral skills education. I am certified to offer affirmative care for neurodivergent and LGBTAI+ populations!
I am interested in helping individuals across the lifespan explore suitable, person-centered treatment options for anxiety, depression and PTSD find the right combination of medication management and psychotherapy. I offer medication management, supportive therapy DBT and behavioral skills education. I am certified to offer affirmative care for neurodivergent and LGBTAI+ populations!
(857) 349-5582 View (857) 349-5582
Photo of Revive Holistic Psychiatry, Psychiatrist in Greenfield, MA
Revive Holistic Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Weymouth, MA 02190
•• Accepting New Patients •• Many struggle with their mental health and often feel anxious or depressed, lack the motivation to work, isolate themselves from family and friends, lose interest in the things they use to enjoy, or perform poorly at their job. I believe when you treat someone holistically you can address the root cause of the mental health struggle so you can get back to living a balanced and fulfilled life.
•• Accepting New Patients •• Many struggle with their mental health and often feel anxious or depressed, lack the motivation to work, isolate themselves from family and friends, lose interest in the things they use to enjoy, or perform poorly at their job. I believe when you treat someone holistically you can address the root cause of the mental health struggle so you can get back to living a balanced and fulfilled life.
(857) 214-8623 View (857) 214-8623
Photo of Timothy Pepin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Greenfield, MA
Timothy Pepin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Framingham, MA 01702  (Online Only)
Timothy’s core philosophy is patient centered. He is a fierce patient advocate and believer in the patient’s right to autonomy first and foremost. He believes in a multidisciplinary approach to psychiatric care including the involvement of therapists, nurses, social workers, physicians, and psychologists to implement therapy, dietary changes, exercise, psychopharmacology, and genetic testing within a holistic care model. He performs comprehensive assessments and develops realistic treatment plans that include the needs of patients and their families.
Timothy’s core philosophy is patient centered. He is a fierce patient advocate and believer in the patient’s right to autonomy first and foremost. He believes in a multidisciplinary approach to psychiatric care including the involvement of therapists, nurses, social workers, physicians, and psychologists to implement therapy, dietary changes, exercise, psychopharmacology, and genetic testing within a holistic care model. He performs comprehensive assessments and develops realistic treatment plans that include the needs of patients and their families.
(401) 425-7182 View (401) 425-7182
Photo of Harmony Bay, Psychiatrist in Greenfield, MA
Harmony Bay
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Sudbury, MA 01776
Harmony Bay is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
Harmony Bay is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
(978) 965-2845 View (978) 965-2845
Photo of Donald Schiermer MD PhD, Psychiatrist in Greenfield, MA
Donald Schiermer MD PhD
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD, MPH
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116
You need help, but are unsure where to turn. Wary of doctors, suspicious of drugs to which you think you could get "addicted," unbelieving that anyone could know you well enough to help. You may already be taking medicine, but aren't convinced it is the best one for you, or even helping at all. As a clinical psychologist and family physician trained in psychopharmacology, I apply an unusual and broad background to help identify and clarify what is "stuck" for you right now. Discovering ways to feel free of anxiety, depression, anger or hate is our business together.
You need help, but are unsure where to turn. Wary of doctors, suspicious of drugs to which you think you could get "addicted," unbelieving that anyone could know you well enough to help. You may already be taking medicine, but aren't convinced it is the best one for you, or even helping at all. As a clinical psychologist and family physician trained in psychopharmacology, I apply an unusual and broad background to help identify and clarify what is "stuck" for you right now. Discovering ways to feel free of anxiety, depression, anger or hate is our business together.
(617) 648-9482 View (617) 648-9482
Photo of Dianne Vitkus, Physician Assistant in Greenfield, MA
Dianne Vitkus
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02129
Meet Dianne, a compassionate and experienced Physician Assistant (PA) with a strong focus on mental health. Dianne's journey in healthcare, marked by academic excellence and a passion for instilling hope and emotional intelligence in her patients, makes her a remarkable practitioner. Her unique background and dedication to mental well-being set her apart as a PA who specializes in holistic mental health care. Dianne's educational achievements include graduating from Brown University in 2016 and earning her master's degree in Physician Assistant Studies from Lemoyne College.
Meet Dianne, a compassionate and experienced Physician Assistant (PA) with a strong focus on mental health. Dianne's journey in healthcare, marked by academic excellence and a passion for instilling hope and emotional intelligence in her patients, makes her a remarkable practitioner. Her unique background and dedication to mental well-being set her apart as a PA who specializes in holistic mental health care. Dianne's educational achievements include graduating from Brown University in 2016 and earning her master's degree in Physician Assistant Studies from Lemoyne College.
(617) 380-6113 View (617) 380-6113

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Borderline Personality (BPD) Psychiatrists

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.