Therapists in Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO

Photo of Cara Czarnecki, Licensed Professional Counselor in Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO
Cara Czarnecki
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAAT, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO 80210
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in Complex PTSD and Dissociative disorders, as well as borderline personality disorder.
Are you looking for a therapeutic approach that is different than what you might be used to? Are you ready to explore the root of the problem that is continuing to cause you the symptoms you are struggling with? By using approaches such as, Art Therapy, EMDR, IFS and Reiki I can offer you something in addition to talk therapy. These approaches target verbal areas of the brain that shut down during a traumatic event(s). Reiki can be described as a spiritual/energetic approach that is often referred to as a "massage for the soul".
I specialize in Complex PTSD and Dissociative disorders, as well as borderline personality disorder.
Are you looking for a therapeutic approach that is different than what you might be used to? Are you ready to explore the root of the problem that is continuing to cause you the symptoms you are struggling with? By using approaches such as, Art Therapy, EMDR, IFS and Reiki I can offer you something in addition to talk therapy. These approaches target verbal areas of the brain that shut down during a traumatic event(s). Reiki can be described as a spiritual/energetic approach that is often referred to as a "massage for the soul".
(720) 809-7520 View (720) 809-7520
Photo of Stacey M King, Licensed Professional Counselor in Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO
Stacey M King
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC -IT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO 80210
I have been working with clients who suffer from, bipolar disorder, depression, borderline personality disorder.
As a licensed professional counselor, in specializing treating people, with mental health disorders. I have worked with clients who suffer, from major depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia clients. I have also worked with clients who suffer from borderline personality disorder. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adult clients. It's my duty, to make sure that you are coping well, with your mental health, and learning how to live a more fulfilling life. I will go out my way, to make sure my clients are getting what they need, to start to make healthier progress in their Everday life."
I have been working with clients who suffer from, bipolar disorder, depression, borderline personality disorder.
As a licensed professional counselor, in specializing treating people, with mental health disorders. I have worked with clients who suffer, from major depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia clients. I have also worked with clients who suffer from borderline personality disorder. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adult clients. It's my duty, to make sure that you are coping well, with your mental health, and learning how to live a more fulfilling life. I will go out my way, to make sure my clients are getting what they need, to start to make healthier progress in their Everday life."
(414) 622-7120 View (414) 622-7120
Photo of Lisa Kerscher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO
Lisa Kerscher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO 80246
I work with adults, couples and families. My goal is to help you find a place of calm and stability so you can identify your strengths and access your own solutions. I specialize in helping individuals and couples find and sustain healthy habits and improve interpersonal relationships through increased coping and communication skills. I work with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar and borderline personality disorder as well as issues of dependency, life transitions, grief and loss, relationship issues and self esteem.
I work with adults, couples and families. My goal is to help you find a place of calm and stability so you can identify your strengths and access your own solutions. I specialize in helping individuals and couples find and sustain healthy habits and improve interpersonal relationships through increased coping and communication skills. I work with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar and borderline personality disorder as well as issues of dependency, life transitions, grief and loss, relationship issues and self esteem.
(720) 961-2503 View (720) 961-2503
Photo of Andrew S. Arriaga, Psychologist Candidate in Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO
Andrew S. Arriaga
Psychologist Candidate, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO 80222
If you've ever felt misunderstood, invalidated, or rejected because of who you are or the struggles you face, know that you're not alone. It’s my goal to provide a space where all are welcome as they are and honored in their journey toward wellness. As a queer man, I'm especially passionate about serving LGBTQ+ communities and have experience providing affirmative therapy and WPATH-adherent letters of support for gender-affirming procedures. I also have notable experience treating diverse individuals facing depression, anxiety, relational concerns, substance abuse, and many other challenges that often keep us from living full lives.
If you've ever felt misunderstood, invalidated, or rejected because of who you are or the struggles you face, know that you're not alone. It’s my goal to provide a space where all are welcome as they are and honored in their journey toward wellness. As a queer man, I'm especially passionate about serving LGBTQ+ communities and have experience providing affirmative therapy and WPATH-adherent letters of support for gender-affirming procedures. I also have notable experience treating diverse individuals facing depression, anxiety, relational concerns, substance abuse, and many other challenges that often keep us from living full lives.
(720) 707-3204 View (720) 707-3204
Photo of Betsy Usher, Psychologist in Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO
Betsy Usher
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO 80222
I know sometimes it feels like no one can help you. That you are too much, too dark, and too broken to be helped. Sometimes trauma can manifest by cutting, eating disorders, depression, chaos, and a real struggle to maintain friendships. It can be hard to even picture what a stable and consistent life would look like, but it's still something you want. Chaotic feelings feel like they take over you and you struggle to make it through each day. You want to live but still feel suicidal. This is all normal for someone with trauma, someone who has been through abuse, someone who has experienced broken relationships and even toxic ones.
I know sometimes it feels like no one can help you. That you are too much, too dark, and too broken to be helped. Sometimes trauma can manifest by cutting, eating disorders, depression, chaos, and a real struggle to maintain friendships. It can be hard to even picture what a stable and consistent life would look like, but it's still something you want. Chaotic feelings feel like they take over you and you struggle to make it through each day. You want to live but still feel suicidal. This is all normal for someone with trauma, someone who has been through abuse, someone who has experienced broken relationships and even toxic ones.
(970) 825-1004 View (970) 825-1004
Photo of Rachael A. Price, Licensed Professional Counselor in Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO
Rachael A. Price
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO 80222  (Online Only)
I work with young adults and adults residing in CO and/or TX seeking a new set of skills to more effectively address interpersonal relationship instability, emotional dysregulation and distress, behavioral instability, anxiety, depression, self-harm, and chronic suicidal ideation. I offer DBT skills training and individual therapy to those interested in becoming more personally and socially satisfied by practicing a more effective, meaningful, and mindful lifestyle through the use of DBT skills.
I work with young adults and adults residing in CO and/or TX seeking a new set of skills to more effectively address interpersonal relationship instability, emotional dysregulation and distress, behavioral instability, anxiety, depression, self-harm, and chronic suicidal ideation. I offer DBT skills training and individual therapy to those interested in becoming more personally and socially satisfied by practicing a more effective, meaningful, and mindful lifestyle through the use of DBT skills.
(720) 726-1693 View (720) 726-1693
Photo of Beth Coke, Psychologist in Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO
Beth Coke
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO 80237
My goal is to walk alongside you on your journey and provide the support you need on the journey. There is no judgement based on diagnosis or background. I have spent most of my clinician career working with those with severe mental illness diagnosis or requiring residential mental health treatment. For those transitioning from that setting it is hard to find a clinician and one of my goals is to be able to walk alongside those in transition from residential or intensive mental health treatment as they re-integrate back home.
My goal is to walk alongside you on your journey and provide the support you need on the journey. There is no judgement based on diagnosis or background. I have spent most of my clinician career working with those with severe mental illness diagnosis or requiring residential mental health treatment. For those transitioning from that setting it is hard to find a clinician and one of my goals is to be able to walk alongside those in transition from residential or intensive mental health treatment as they re-integrate back home.
(720) 783-2399 View (720) 783-2399
Photo of Elizabeth M Wellington, Licensed Professional Counselor in Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO
Elizabeth M Wellington
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO 80246
Waitlist for new clients
Life can be hard, and no one knows this better than adolescents, young adults, and the families who love and support them. Intense emotions; urges to engage in impulsive behaviors; navigating social situations and the stress of school; difficulty getting along with parents; the politics of Snapchat, etc! The instability of this time of life offers both challenge and opportunity. Therapy can support young people to harness the chaotic yet formative nature of this time as a catalyst for lasting wellness and growth: Explore one's identity; develop effective coping strategies, practice interpersonal relationship, heal trauma, and more.
Life can be hard, and no one knows this better than adolescents, young adults, and the families who love and support them. Intense emotions; urges to engage in impulsive behaviors; navigating social situations and the stress of school; difficulty getting along with parents; the politics of Snapchat, etc! The instability of this time of life offers both challenge and opportunity. Therapy can support young people to harness the chaotic yet formative nature of this time as a catalyst for lasting wellness and growth: Explore one's identity; develop effective coping strategies, practice interpersonal relationship, heal trauma, and more.
(856) 291-5133 View (856) 291-5133
Photo of Lara Newton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO
Lara Newton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO 80210
Therapy is a relational experience. In the initial stages of that encounter, we either connect at a core level, or the work does not progress. You don't want merely to be diagnosed, but to be understood. As a Jungian Analyst, I engage with your curiosity about your psychological life. Together we work to understand and transform the patterns that have ruled your life. The self-awareness that develops from this work has the potential to enhance all outer relationships. But most important is the intra-psychic experience of knowing and loving yourself again, or maybe for the first time.
Therapy is a relational experience. In the initial stages of that encounter, we either connect at a core level, or the work does not progress. You don't want merely to be diagnosed, but to be understood. As a Jungian Analyst, I engage with your curiosity about your psychological life. Together we work to understand and transform the patterns that have ruled your life. The self-awareness that develops from this work has the potential to enhance all outer relationships. But most important is the intra-psychic experience of knowing and loving yourself again, or maybe for the first time.
(303) 578-1192 View (303) 578-1192
Photo of Nina Minagawa Psy.d Lac, Psychologist in Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO
Nina Minagawa Psy.d Lac
Psychologist, PsyD, LAC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO 80209
My passion in psychotherapy is working with adults who struggle with behavioral and mental health issues, including trauma, anxiety ADHD and a variety of personality disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder and addictions. My therapeutic approach is drawn from mindfulness-based therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, behavioral therapy, and a humanistic approach. I also offer Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Exposure and Ritual/Response Prevention (EXRP) as well as EMDR and Prolong Exposure (PE) sessions for trauma treatment. I am a Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology with a Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology.
My passion in psychotherapy is working with adults who struggle with behavioral and mental health issues, including trauma, anxiety ADHD and a variety of personality disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder and addictions. My therapeutic approach is drawn from mindfulness-based therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, behavioral therapy, and a humanistic approach. I also offer Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Exposure and Ritual/Response Prevention (EXRP) as well as EMDR and Prolong Exposure (PE) sessions for trauma treatment. I am a Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology with a Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology.
(720) 704-2133 View (720) 704-2133
Photo of Brad Metzler, Counselor in Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO
Brad Metzler
Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO 80222  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
The past few years have seen rapid changes in the way we work, spend our time, and go about our daily lives. Perhaps like many, these last few years have worn you down considerably and negatively impacted your mental well-being. Seeking therapeutic services for the first time can feel like an overwhelming task. Maybe there were challenges prior to the pandemic, or recently things have become more intensified in your life due to a variety of factors. I offer free consultations for all potential clients as an opportunity to meet me, have your questions answered, and see if I can be helpful with what you are most needing support with.
The past few years have seen rapid changes in the way we work, spend our time, and go about our daily lives. Perhaps like many, these last few years have worn you down considerably and negatively impacted your mental well-being. Seeking therapeutic services for the first time can feel like an overwhelming task. Maybe there were challenges prior to the pandemic, or recently things have become more intensified in your life due to a variety of factors. I offer free consultations for all potential clients as an opportunity to meet me, have your questions answered, and see if I can be helpful with what you are most needing support with.
(720) 310-6249 View (720) 310-6249
Photo of Emily Bretl, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO
Emily Bretl
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MFTC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO 80222
We are all becoming. Becoming more confident, more weighed down by the stressors of life and our relationships, more independent, and more unsure of our identity or place in the world. And the most confusing part: all of those ‘becomings’ are happening at the same time. How are we able to celebrate the joys in our worlds while feeling tied to pressures that are both external to us and internal, hitting close to vulnerable wounds? Welcome to Becoming Therapy Services. By engaging in open and collaborative dialogue, we will use tools to help discover the stories that deserve a voice and parts of you that exist beyond the surface.
We are all becoming. Becoming more confident, more weighed down by the stressors of life and our relationships, more independent, and more unsure of our identity or place in the world. And the most confusing part: all of those ‘becomings’ are happening at the same time. How are we able to celebrate the joys in our worlds while feeling tied to pressures that are both external to us and internal, hitting close to vulnerable wounds? Welcome to Becoming Therapy Services. By engaging in open and collaborative dialogue, we will use tools to help discover the stories that deserve a voice and parts of you that exist beyond the surface.
(720) 815-9541 View (720) 815-9541
Photo of Beth Tamborski, Licensed Professional Counselor in Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO
Beth Tamborski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO 80237  (Online Only)
Welcome! I’m glad you’ve decided to reach out for counseling, as I know it can often be a difficult step to take. I look forward to getting to know you as you explore what brought you here. I have over 20 years of experience in the mental health field working with individuals of all age ranges. I enjoy working with individuals and couples and utilize a person-centered approach, where I meet each individual where they are at on their journey towards wellness. I believe in the mind-body connection and the importance of using a holistic approach to building resilience and meeting life’s challenges.
Welcome! I’m glad you’ve decided to reach out for counseling, as I know it can often be a difficult step to take. I look forward to getting to know you as you explore what brought you here. I have over 20 years of experience in the mental health field working with individuals of all age ranges. I enjoy working with individuals and couples and utilize a person-centered approach, where I meet each individual where they are at on their journey towards wellness. I believe in the mind-body connection and the importance of using a holistic approach to building resilience and meeting life’s challenges.
(720) 637-3454 View (720) 637-3454
Photo of Kathleen D Robinson, Psychologist in Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO
Kathleen D Robinson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO 80222
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 28 years of experience. My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, panic, trauma, eating disorders, self-injury, relationship issues and identity development. I primarily work with adolescents and adults providing individual, family and couples psychotherapy. All of my training and clinical work is grounded in evidenced-based research. I am trained in Mindfulness-Based Therapies, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), EMDR Level-II, Exposure Therapy, and the Safe Alternatives approach.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 28 years of experience. My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, panic, trauma, eating disorders, self-injury, relationship issues and identity development. I primarily work with adolescents and adults providing individual, family and couples psychotherapy. All of my training and clinical work is grounded in evidenced-based research. I am trained in Mindfulness-Based Therapies, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), EMDR Level-II, Exposure Therapy, and the Safe Alternatives approach.
(303) 782-0433 View (303) 782-0433
Photo of Rachel Smith, Counselor in Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO
Rachel Smith
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO 80210
Waitlist for new clients
How do we find inner peace when our outer presentation is wrong? Where is self-acceptance when the world around you is unaccepting? Your internal struggles are real, and you are not alone. Wholeness begins with healing. They say time heals all wounds, but some wounds are so deep it feels as though they may never heal. Asking for help takes strength. If you’re experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma from sexual assault or abuse, and/or sex and relationship issues, let’s chat. Please reach out via email if possible
How do we find inner peace when our outer presentation is wrong? Where is self-acceptance when the world around you is unaccepting? Your internal struggles are real, and you are not alone. Wholeness begins with healing. They say time heals all wounds, but some wounds are so deep it feels as though they may never heal. Asking for help takes strength. If you’re experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma from sexual assault or abuse, and/or sex and relationship issues, let’s chat. Please reach out via email if possible
(719) 294-1656 View (719) 294-1656
Photo of Dr. Laura Freshman , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO
Dr. Laura Freshman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO 80246
Waitlist for new clients
If you believe that knowing yourself in a deep way can open up potential space for repair and healing, I could be the right therapist for you. There is so much to grieve and love in this world of ours: our personal stories and family histories, the troubles of loved ones, our social and political pain, and the crisis facing our planet. All of this can feel exhausting or impossible to do alone. I work with patients who are creative, innovative, have unique perspectives on the world and are curious to open up to what is stuck in them in order to repair, heal and become more vital inside and within their relationships and the world.
If you believe that knowing yourself in a deep way can open up potential space for repair and healing, I could be the right therapist for you. There is so much to grieve and love in this world of ours: our personal stories and family histories, the troubles of loved ones, our social and political pain, and the crisis facing our planet. All of this can feel exhausting or impossible to do alone. I work with patients who are creative, innovative, have unique perspectives on the world and are curious to open up to what is stuck in them in order to repair, heal and become more vital inside and within their relationships and the world.
(720) 724-7975 View (720) 724-7975
Photo of Stephanie Thiel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO
Stephanie Thiel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO 80237
I am currently only taking children & adolescents as new clients! Human beings are wired for connection. I whole heartedly believe this statement, and believe that trauma wounds and attachment issues can be healed. I have over 10yrs of experience with teens & families in various capacities, which allows me connect with each person differently. I also do in-home therapy with families, which allows me to work with your family in real-time, and be creative with interventions. I specialize in Narrative therapy, Attachment Focused Family Therapy, and other trauma-informed modalities.
I am currently only taking children & adolescents as new clients! Human beings are wired for connection. I whole heartedly believe this statement, and believe that trauma wounds and attachment issues can be healed. I have over 10yrs of experience with teens & families in various capacities, which allows me connect with each person differently. I also do in-home therapy with families, which allows me to work with your family in real-time, and be creative with interventions. I specialize in Narrative therapy, Attachment Focused Family Therapy, and other trauma-informed modalities.
(720) 358-2579 View (720) 358-2579
Photo of Nadia Duncan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO
Nadia Duncan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO 80222
I support individuals in their teens, 20s, and 30s who are navigating anxiety, trauma, and attachment challenges. I specialize in EMDR and ego states therapy to help people gain a better understanding of themselves, improve relationships, and work through past experiences while gaining coping strategies. I treat anxiety, depression, PTSD, disordered eating, mood and dissociative disorders. I provide a compassionate space for you to navigate life transitions, relationships, process experiences, and gain insight in a path towards healing. I am accepting clients for in-person therapy in the Denver area, and telehealth across CO and FL.
I support individuals in their teens, 20s, and 30s who are navigating anxiety, trauma, and attachment challenges. I specialize in EMDR and ego states therapy to help people gain a better understanding of themselves, improve relationships, and work through past experiences while gaining coping strategies. I treat anxiety, depression, PTSD, disordered eating, mood and dissociative disorders. I provide a compassionate space for you to navigate life transitions, relationships, process experiences, and gain insight in a path towards healing. I am accepting clients for in-person therapy in the Denver area, and telehealth across CO and FL.
(720) 743-5266 View (720) 743-5266
Photo of AYCMARC of Denver, Licensed Professional Counselor in Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO
AYCMARC of Denver
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LAC, LMFTC
Verified Verified
Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO 80237  (Online Only)
AYCMARC, (We are open when everyone else is closed) asks you this question: true or false. The only person you can change is your self (surprise! answer). Hi my name is Mark M Miller. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Addiction Counselor (LAC) and the founder of at Your Convenience Mental Health and Relationship Counseling of Denver (AYCMARC). The answer to the question is false. Psychology and systems theory show us that any change in the system (family, group or society) changes the system. Therefore a more truthful axiom is the only person you can willingly change is yourself.
AYCMARC, (We are open when everyone else is closed) asks you this question: true or false. The only person you can change is your self (surprise! answer). Hi my name is Mark M Miller. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Addiction Counselor (LAC) and the founder of at Your Convenience Mental Health and Relationship Counseling of Denver (AYCMARC). The answer to the question is false. Psychology and systems theory show us that any change in the system (family, group or society) changes the system. Therefore a more truthful axiom is the only person you can willingly change is yourself.
(720) 386-4762 View (720) 386-4762
Photo of Steven Harvey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO
Steven Harvey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, SAP
Verified Verified
Southeastern Denver, Denver, CO 80224
Steven Harvey, MSW, LCSW, SAP is a therapist practicing in the Denver metropolitan area in Colorado. He currently practices psychoeducation and psychotherapy in the Denver and Aurora area. He has knowledge of the Colorado child welfare system, United States Military, post-incarceration transitions, and associated competent knowledge of the family dynamic. Faithfully, he is culturally knowledgeable, in the practice of cultural competence and cultural sensitivities.
Steven Harvey, MSW, LCSW, SAP is a therapist practicing in the Denver metropolitan area in Colorado. He currently practices psychoeducation and psychotherapy in the Denver and Aurora area. He has knowledge of the Colorado child welfare system, United States Military, post-incarceration transitions, and associated competent knowledge of the family dynamic. Faithfully, he is culturally knowledgeable, in the practice of cultural competence and cultural sensitivities.
(720) 896-2849 View (720) 896-2849

See more therapy options for Southeastern Denver, Denver

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.