Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in Tempe, AZ

Photo of Elizabeth Boomer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tempe, AZ
Elizabeth Boomer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85283
Now accepting new Teletherapy clients. Through awareness and support I believe we are all able to heal and grow to live the lives we love and thrive in. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, pleased to offer in-person and online therapy to Arizona residents. The majority of my professional experience includes working with adults coping trauma and abuse, Borderline Personality Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, life transitions, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. I also love learning about new personal experiences with people interested in growth and change.
Now accepting new Teletherapy clients. Through awareness and support I believe we are all able to heal and grow to live the lives we love and thrive in. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, pleased to offer in-person and online therapy to Arizona residents. The majority of my professional experience includes working with adults coping trauma and abuse, Borderline Personality Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, life transitions, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. I also love learning about new personal experiences with people interested in growth and change.
(623) 244-4348 View (623) 244-4348
Photo of Araceli Olmos, Counselor in Tempe, AZ
Araceli Olmos
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85282
In my professional practice, I've provided support to individuals grappling with a diverse range of challenges, including eating disorders, anxiety, depression, ADHD, gender, transitioning, sexuality concerns, borderline personality disorder, and posttraumatic stress disorder.
Drawing upon my personal journey, I intimately understand the overwhelming and isolating nature of our internal struggles. Yet, I firmly believe that life doesn't have to be overshadowed by fear and loneliness. What if we viewed life's challenges as opportunities for profound growth and understanding? What if we discarded societal labels, embracing ourselves with unwavering acceptance and kindness? My passion lies in guiding individuals away from the clutches of suffering and towards the inherent beauty that exists within our lives.
In my professional practice, I've provided support to individuals grappling with a diverse range of challenges, including eating disorders, anxiety, depression, ADHD, gender, transitioning, sexuality concerns, borderline personality disorder, and posttraumatic stress disorder.
Drawing upon my personal journey, I intimately understand the overwhelming and isolating nature of our internal struggles. Yet, I firmly believe that life doesn't have to be overshadowed by fear and loneliness. What if we viewed life's challenges as opportunities for profound growth and understanding? What if we discarded societal labels, embracing ourselves with unwavering acceptance and kindness? My passion lies in guiding individuals away from the clutches of suffering and towards the inherent beauty that exists within our lives.
(602) 922-8707 x1 View (602) 922-8707 x1
Photo of Sarah Dabbs, Pre-Licensed Professional in Tempe, AZ
Sarah Dabbs
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
Are you tired of being sad, depressed, or anxious? Do you have an issue relating to others or expressing your feelings? Is your lack of impulse control damaging your relationships with the people you love most? Working with adults and at-risk youth presenting with bi-polar, anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, anger management, schizophrenia, and dissociative disorder from a diversity of religions, ethnicities, and socioeconomic backgrounds over the past ten years has provided me with a positive and unique approach to helping you gain the skills needed to overcome your issues.
Are you tired of being sad, depressed, or anxious? Do you have an issue relating to others or expressing your feelings? Is your lack of impulse control damaging your relationships with the people you love most? Working with adults and at-risk youth presenting with bi-polar, anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, anger management, schizophrenia, and dissociative disorder from a diversity of religions, ethnicities, and socioeconomic backgrounds over the past ten years has provided me with a positive and unique approach to helping you gain the skills needed to overcome your issues.
(480) 933-2053 View (480) 933-2053
Photo of Rebecca Fregoso, Counselor in Tempe, AZ
Rebecca Fregoso
Counselor, MS, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85282
Over the years, I've developed specialized skills to work with diverse populations, various backgrounds, and individuals dealing with depression, dissociative disorders, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, BPD, self-esteem issues, relationship challenges, and complex trauma.
Have you ever found yourself in need of someone to talk to, only to feel like there's no one you can turn to? Perhaps you've experienced the frustration of opening up and being vulnerable, only to receive a blank stare or have the conversation unintentionally redirected to the other person's experiences. At Inner Balance, YOU are our primary and central focus. I value the courage it takes to be vulnerable and provide a secure space for you to explore your past, present, and future. I'm here to offer the support and validation you need to evolve into the person you aspire to be.
Over the years, I've developed specialized skills to work with diverse populations, various backgrounds, and individuals dealing with depression, dissociative disorders, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, BPD, self-esteem issues, relationship challenges, and complex trauma.
Have you ever found yourself in need of someone to talk to, only to feel like there's no one you can turn to? Perhaps you've experienced the frustration of opening up and being vulnerable, only to receive a blank stare or have the conversation unintentionally redirected to the other person's experiences. At Inner Balance, YOU are our primary and central focus. I value the courage it takes to be vulnerable and provide a secure space for you to explore your past, present, and future. I'm here to offer the support and validation you need to evolve into the person you aspire to be.
(480) 452-1022 View (480) 452-1022
Photo of Claudette Waite New Point Of View Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tempe, AZ
Claudette Waite New Point Of View Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, C-DBT, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
I specialize in treating trauma, personality disorder BPD, and treating relationship issues with couples.
"Shame cannot survive being spoken and being met with empathy" Brene Brown. My goal is to support your healing, to hold a sacred space that feels safe to you and where you no longer feel alone in your pain. I specialize in helping people with attachment / relationship wounding trauma , family disconnection/dysfunction, divorce, codependency, self-esteem, and relationship problems. If you struggle with fear of abandonment, unstable relationships and self-image I can help. If you struggle with not being good enough, chronic feelings of unworthiness, control, the need to be perfect and comparing yourself to others, then call me.
I specialize in treating trauma, personality disorder BPD, and treating relationship issues with couples.
"Shame cannot survive being spoken and being met with empathy" Brene Brown. My goal is to support your healing, to hold a sacred space that feels safe to you and where you no longer feel alone in your pain. I specialize in helping people with attachment / relationship wounding trauma , family disconnection/dysfunction, divorce, codependency, self-esteem, and relationship problems. If you struggle with fear of abandonment, unstable relationships and self-image I can help. If you struggle with not being good enough, chronic feelings of unworthiness, control, the need to be perfect and comparing yourself to others, then call me.
(602) 783-8831 View (602) 783-8831
Photo of Dr. Dylan Richard, Psychologist in Tempe, AZ
Dr. Dylan Richard
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85281  (Online Only)
I specialize in trauma/PTSD, sexuality and sexual concerns, LGBTQIA2S+ issues, ADHD, Alt-Sex and "Alternative" relationships, psychodiagnostic assessment/testing, and personality disorders (such as borderline personality disorder).
Are you seeking a compassionate, experienced, and authentic psychologist to join you in your journey towards mental wellness and self-discovery? Are you looking for someone who doesn't fit the stereotypical mold of "psychologist"? Are you seeking a psychologist who is affirming and understanding of what it is like to be queer, polyamorous, kinky, neurodivergent, and/or alternative? When meeting with a new therapist, do you feel as though you spend way too much time educating them rather than on your actual concerns? Well look no further!
I specialize in trauma/PTSD, sexuality and sexual concerns, LGBTQIA2S+ issues, ADHD, Alt-Sex and "Alternative" relationships, psychodiagnostic assessment/testing, and personality disorders (such as borderline personality disorder).
Are you seeking a compassionate, experienced, and authentic psychologist to join you in your journey towards mental wellness and self-discovery? Are you looking for someone who doesn't fit the stereotypical mold of "psychologist"? Are you seeking a psychologist who is affirming and understanding of what it is like to be queer, polyamorous, kinky, neurodivergent, and/or alternative? When meeting with a new therapist, do you feel as though you spend way too much time educating them rather than on your actual concerns? Well look no further!
(520) 523-4949 View (520) 523-4949
Photo of Alessia Kosta in Tempe, AZ
Alessia Kosta
LMSW
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85281  (Online Only)
I additionally work with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, borderline, and trauma presentations, using a combination of EMDR, NARM, narrative, acceptance, and existential therapies to support my clients.
Many of us feel like we are fighting several losing battles at once, often causing feelings of hollowness, sadness, hopelessness, and anxiety. This can make us feel like there’s no way to find our purpose or direction in life, impacting our relationships to others and ourselves. Navigating these struggles means more than addressing symptoms: we have to rediscover a sense of meaning. To do this, I blend together modalities that address trauma, identity, problem solving, and understanding our belief systems to best support the person from a place that is grounded and informed by their personal goals and priorities.
I additionally work with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, borderline, and trauma presentations, using a combination of EMDR, NARM, narrative, acceptance, and existential therapies to support my clients.
Many of us feel like we are fighting several losing battles at once, often causing feelings of hollowness, sadness, hopelessness, and anxiety. This can make us feel like there’s no way to find our purpose or direction in life, impacting our relationships to others and ourselves. Navigating these struggles means more than addressing symptoms: we have to rediscover a sense of meaning. To do this, I blend together modalities that address trauma, identity, problem solving, and understanding our belief systems to best support the person from a place that is grounded and informed by their personal goals and priorities.
(480) 685-9592 View (480) 685-9592
Photo of Nicole Heim LPC, Counselor in Tempe, AZ
Nicole Heim LPC
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85283
Every individual has their needs and wants in life. I work with individuals, couples, or families to achieve goals to maintain a more meaningful lifestyle. My strength is an honest approach so that people know that I am being genuine with them and that I amwith them in the moment. I help people to find out what gets in the way of them being effective in everyday life and help them look to a healthier future. I believe that everyone has the power in themselves to change, and that everyone needs help sometimes to keep moving forward.
Every individual has their needs and wants in life. I work with individuals, couples, or families to achieve goals to maintain a more meaningful lifestyle. My strength is an honest approach so that people know that I am being genuine with them and that I amwith them in the moment. I help people to find out what gets in the way of them being effective in everyday life and help them look to a healthier future. I believe that everyone has the power in themselves to change, and that everyone needs help sometimes to keep moving forward.
(480) 428-3806 View (480) 428-3806
Photo of Madison Lynch, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tempe, AZ
Madison Lynch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85283
Beginning therapy can be vulnerable and overwhelming. Congratulations on taking this first step! I hope to make this process as easy for you as possible. I am a Licensed Associate Counselor whose professional experience includes working with individuals experiencing trauma, OCD, depression, anxiety, relationship/attachment issues, domestic violence, and various life transitions. I believe everyone is unique and I aim to create a therapeutic space personalized for each client. I place high importance on creating a warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental environment for all.
Beginning therapy can be vulnerable and overwhelming. Congratulations on taking this first step! I hope to make this process as easy for you as possible. I am a Licensed Associate Counselor whose professional experience includes working with individuals experiencing trauma, OCD, depression, anxiety, relationship/attachment issues, domestic violence, and various life transitions. I believe everyone is unique and I aim to create a therapeutic space personalized for each client. I place high importance on creating a warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental environment for all.
(602) 691-5417 View (602) 691-5417
Photo of Brianna Stevens, Counselor in Tempe, AZ
Brianna Stevens
Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282  (Online Only)
Have you been feeling “stuck” lately? Maybe you feel numb or detached. Maybe you’re so overwhelmed that you find yourself struggling to function or asking yourself “why am I like this?” more often than you’re comfortable with. Maybe you just can’t cope with your symptoms like you used to and it feels like you’re losing control. Or maybe you just find yourself in the same situations or relationships over and over again and just can’t seem to figure out why. Whatever you’ve been dealing with that has brought you to this page today – depression, anxiety, anger, mood swings, stress, dissociation, trauma- I’m here to help.
Have you been feeling “stuck” lately? Maybe you feel numb or detached. Maybe you’re so overwhelmed that you find yourself struggling to function or asking yourself “why am I like this?” more often than you’re comfortable with. Maybe you just can’t cope with your symptoms like you used to and it feels like you’re losing control. Or maybe you just find yourself in the same situations or relationships over and over again and just can’t seem to figure out why. Whatever you’ve been dealing with that has brought you to this page today – depression, anxiety, anger, mood swings, stress, dissociation, trauma- I’m here to help.
(928) 212-5491 View (928) 212-5491
Photo of Sydney Jeanne Taylor, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tempe, AZ
Sydney Jeanne Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MS, CMHC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85284
There are many benefits from participating in therapy. Therapists can provide support, problem-solving skills, and enhanced coping strategies for issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship troubles, trauma, grief, stress management, and creative blocks. Many people also find that counselors can be a tremendous asset to managing personal growth, interpersonal relationships, and the hassles of daily life. Therapists can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem or point you in the direction of a solution.
There are many benefits from participating in therapy. Therapists can provide support, problem-solving skills, and enhanced coping strategies for issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship troubles, trauma, grief, stress management, and creative blocks. Many people also find that counselors can be a tremendous asset to managing personal growth, interpersonal relationships, and the hassles of daily life. Therapists can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem or point you in the direction of a solution.
(480) 725-6099 View (480) 725-6099
Photo of Pallavi Lal, Counselor in Tempe, AZ
Pallavi Lal
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85281
Close your eyes and imagine what you want. What do you see? A world where the inner critic is quiet? A life without overwhelm? Disconnection? Wanting to feeling good enough? Relationships feel easy. Tasks and goals are accomplished. Life as a busy parent, a perfect student, or a dedicated professional can get daunting. What if, we can quiet the mind, calm the emotional storm, embrace the abandoned parts? We work together to resolve trauma, crippling self-esteem, manage boundaries in relationships and achieve a work/life balance. Let's reinvent existing tools to better suit your unique needs and celebrate how you have ADAPTED!
Close your eyes and imagine what you want. What do you see? A world where the inner critic is quiet? A life without overwhelm? Disconnection? Wanting to feeling good enough? Relationships feel easy. Tasks and goals are accomplished. Life as a busy parent, a perfect student, or a dedicated professional can get daunting. What if, we can quiet the mind, calm the emotional storm, embrace the abandoned parts? We work together to resolve trauma, crippling self-esteem, manage boundaries in relationships and achieve a work/life balance. Let's reinvent existing tools to better suit your unique needs and celebrate how you have ADAPTED!
(480) 907-3197 View (480) 907-3197
Photo of Amy Burnside, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tempe, AZ
Amy Burnside
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85284
I want to help you embrace your personal story and live your life in a way that is fulfilling and connected to your personal values. I believe that through increased awareness & acceptance of who you are we can identify behavioral, thought, or emotional patterns that are keeping you stuck. I strive to help clients balance their emotional, psychological, & physical health. Together we can improve your communication skills, decrease emotional reactivity, improve self-esteem & break down internal barriers that prevent you from fully living. I have a down to earth and compassionate style and will help you identify your innate strengths.
I want to help you embrace your personal story and live your life in a way that is fulfilling and connected to your personal values. I believe that through increased awareness & acceptance of who you are we can identify behavioral, thought, or emotional patterns that are keeping you stuck. I strive to help clients balance their emotional, psychological, & physical health. Together we can improve your communication skills, decrease emotional reactivity, improve self-esteem & break down internal barriers that prevent you from fully living. I have a down to earth and compassionate style and will help you identify your innate strengths.
(480) 351-5184 View (480) 351-5184
Photo of Emma Lauer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tempe, AZ
Emma Lauer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85283
I believe that therapy is for everyone and that every person deserves the opportunity to heal and reach their goals. I've helped children and adults successfully treat anxiety, depression, eating disorders, body image issues, self-harming behaviors, childhood trauma, and difficult life transitions. I am an EMDR Certified Therapist and an EMDRIA-approved Consultant-in-Training. In my practice, I also use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Intuitive Eating, Brief Solution-Focused Therapy, and Internal Family Systems (IFS). I particularly love helping people heal from eating and body image issues.
I believe that therapy is for everyone and that every person deserves the opportunity to heal and reach their goals. I've helped children and adults successfully treat anxiety, depression, eating disorders, body image issues, self-harming behaviors, childhood trauma, and difficult life transitions. I am an EMDR Certified Therapist and an EMDRIA-approved Consultant-in-Training. In my practice, I also use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Intuitive Eating, Brief Solution-Focused Therapy, and Internal Family Systems (IFS). I particularly love helping people heal from eating and body image issues.
(602) 975-3720 View (602) 975-3720
Photo of Nikki Libby, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tempe, AZ
Nikki Libby
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSc, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85283
Are you motivated for change but don’t know where to start? The path towards becoming the best version of yourself can be challenging; which is why my approach to therapy is unique in that it is tailored to fit you, your needs, and your goals, while providing a warm and non-judgmental space for you to be you! Through our work together, we can explore the complexities of your life while cultivating a safe place for change and growth.
Are you motivated for change but don’t know where to start? The path towards becoming the best version of yourself can be challenging; which is why my approach to therapy is unique in that it is tailored to fit you, your needs, and your goals, while providing a warm and non-judgmental space for you to be you! Through our work together, we can explore the complexities of your life while cultivating a safe place for change and growth.
(480) 568-1965 View (480) 568-1965
Photo of Pacific Mental Health of Arizona, Counselor in Tempe, AZ
Pacific Mental Health of Arizona
Counselor, LPC2205
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
Pacific Mental Health is dedicated to serving the mental health needs of the Greater Seattle area. If you're looking for a new counselor or a fresh perspective in life, our team of psychotherapist can help you achieve the goals you're looking for.
Pacific Mental Health is dedicated to serving the mental health needs of the Greater Seattle area. If you're looking for a new counselor or a fresh perspective in life, our team of psychotherapist can help you achieve the goals you're looking for.
(602) 960-2489 View (602) 960-2489
Photo of Stacy Gerson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tempe, AZ
Stacy Gerson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85283
I am Accepting New Clients for both In-Person and Telehealth appointments. I am ready and willing to provide a safe space, to help you and/or your loved one face and take on any life stressors or challenges. This can include issues contributing to anxiety, depression, relational problems, trauma, unhealthy coping skills, self-esteem issues, stress and much more. Services are offered for Couples, families, teens, young adults, and adults. I’d be happy to answer any questions/ concerns- Please reach out!
I am Accepting New Clients for both In-Person and Telehealth appointments. I am ready and willing to provide a safe space, to help you and/or your loved one face and take on any life stressors or challenges. This can include issues contributing to anxiety, depression, relational problems, trauma, unhealthy coping skills, self-esteem issues, stress and much more. Services are offered for Couples, families, teens, young adults, and adults. I’d be happy to answer any questions/ concerns- Please reach out!
(520) 210-5404 View (520) 210-5404
Photo of Mikayla Dibelka, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tempe, AZ
Mikayla Dibelka
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
I know that you are looking for an accepting, individualized environment to heal and grow through past experiences and current challenges. You may feel like you don’t understand what is happening in your life, you may start to notice patterns and make connections, but find that you don’t know where to go from here, how to build healthier habits and new understandings of the world, or just generally feel overwhelmed and all around not great.
I know that you are looking for an accepting, individualized environment to heal and grow through past experiences and current challenges. You may feel like you don’t understand what is happening in your life, you may start to notice patterns and make connections, but find that you don’t know where to go from here, how to build healthier habits and new understandings of the world, or just generally feel overwhelmed and all around not great.
(480) 906-4210 x1 View (480) 906-4210 x1
Photo of Arielle Arnett, Counselor in Tempe, AZ
Arielle Arnett
Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85283
Walking alongside others through their challenges and pain is an honor I hold with deep gratitude and humility as a counselor. Counseling creates space for people to explore their complexities and life experiences with openness and self-compassion. I am dedicated to cultivating a safe space for you to embark on the journey of self discovery, while fostering a deeper understanding of yourself and connections with others. While this journey can be daunting, I believe it is one worth taking. I look forward to the opportunity to walk alongside you on your journey, wherever it may lead.
Walking alongside others through their challenges and pain is an honor I hold with deep gratitude and humility as a counselor. Counseling creates space for people to explore their complexities and life experiences with openness and self-compassion. I am dedicated to cultivating a safe space for you to embark on the journey of self discovery, while fostering a deeper understanding of yourself and connections with others. While this journey can be daunting, I believe it is one worth taking. I look forward to the opportunity to walk alongside you on your journey, wherever it may lead.
(480) 908-9021 x21 View (480) 908-9021 x21
Photo of Kelly Kerrigan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tempe, AZ
Kelly Kerrigan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85283
Accepting new clients. Evening and weekend appointments available. Kelly specializes in working with adults and couples. Her areas of focus include dissociation, trauma, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, personality disorders, relationship problems, and conflict resolution. Her unique and individualized approach to therapy draws upon a variety of modalities including EMDR, psychodynamic, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She understands each person is as unique as their reasons for seeking support.
Accepting new clients. Evening and weekend appointments available. Kelly specializes in working with adults and couples. Her areas of focus include dissociation, trauma, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, personality disorders, relationship problems, and conflict resolution. Her unique and individualized approach to therapy draws upon a variety of modalities including EMDR, psychodynamic, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She understands each person is as unique as their reasons for seeking support.
(928) 212-5160 View (928) 212-5160
Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists

What is the most successful approach to treating borderline personality disorder?

Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is considered the gold standard of treatment for borderline personality disorder. An evidence-based treatment, it addresses the extreme emotional reactivity, the relationship difficulties, and the acts of self-harm that create so much distress for BPD patients. DBT is a comprehensive program that includes both regular individual psychotherapy sessions and weekly group sessions of skills training.

What happens in treatment of borderline personality disorder?

Treatment typically consists of weekly individual therapy sessions that last an hour and group skill-focused instructional sessions that may last up to two hours. Patients are typically given homework “assignments” in which they are asked to practice in their daily life the skills they acquire in therapy. Patients also keep a diary tracking their emotions and impulses as a way to know which situations are most problematic and to help them gain control over their own behavior. Difficult situations and feelings are typically reviewed in therapy sessions and more constructive solutions found.

What kinds of problems does BPD treatment help with?

DBT was initially developed to dampen the self-destructive impulses of chronically suicidal patients. It is now the treatment of choice for borderline personality disorder, a serious condition marked by extreme emotional reactivity, relationship instability, and self-injurious behaviors. Treatment of BPD helps patients tolerate the flux of emotions without acting on them, often with a specific focus on tolerating negative emotions. DBT addresses the core problems of BPD—fear of abandonment, low self-esteem, and impulsivity.

What is the goal of treatment in borderline personality disorder?

The goal of treatment for borderline personality disorder (BPD) is to relieve the extreme emotional distress that patients experience—to curb their emotional reactivity, to minimize their inclination to self-harm, and to reduce their impulsivity. Toward these ends, patients are not only taught an array of new coping skills and techniques for emotional regulation, they are given opportunities to practice them. Another major goal of treatment is interpersonal effectiveness; patients learn and problem-solve ways to effectively communicate in relationships, especially how to ask for what they need as a way to minimize hurt feelings.