Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in Byesville, OH

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Photo of People to People Counseling Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Byesville, OH
People to People Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cambridge, OH 43725
Do you have difficulty concentrating? Trouble falling or staying asleep? Irritable behavior, angry outbursts? Many people are struggling with trauma symptoms. This can range from feeling fear, horror, anger, guilt or shame to headaches, heart pounding, trouble breathing and sweating. Not taking care of yourself can lead to chronic health problems, mental illness, and substance use problems. We believe that learning healthy ways to cope and getting the right care and support can help reduce upsetting feelings and symptoms. Our staff is excited to work with you to create a plan to help you move forward.
Do you have difficulty concentrating? Trouble falling or staying asleep? Irritable behavior, angry outbursts? Many people are struggling with trauma symptoms. This can range from feeling fear, horror, anger, guilt or shame to headaches, heart pounding, trouble breathing and sweating. Not taking care of yourself can lead to chronic health problems, mental illness, and substance use problems. We believe that learning healthy ways to cope and getting the right care and support can help reduce upsetting feelings and symptoms. Our staff is excited to work with you to create a plan to help you move forward.
(740) 200-4004 View (740) 200-4004

Online Therapists

Photo of Susan I Musto, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Byesville, OH
Susan I Musto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43212
I have experience working with clinical populations that include anxiety, depression, trauma, complex trauma, BPD, abuse and neglect, eating disorders, other personality disorders, behaviors, ADHD, and more.
Bearing your soul to a complete stranger can be a very stress provoking experience. Trauma, anxiety and depression are difficult journeys to take alone. I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 2007, and have worked in a variety of settings to gain the experience I have to help the many difficult challenges we face in our lives. If you have childhood trauma, or adult trauma, or depression, anxiety, or even just trying to adjust to a new stage of life. I would be honored to help you manage and conquer what challenges you're facing.
I have experience working with clinical populations that include anxiety, depression, trauma, complex trauma, BPD, abuse and neglect, eating disorders, other personality disorders, behaviors, ADHD, and more.
Bearing your soul to a complete stranger can be a very stress provoking experience. Trauma, anxiety and depression are difficult journeys to take alone. I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 2007, and have worked in a variety of settings to gain the experience I have to help the many difficult challenges we face in our lives. If you have childhood trauma, or adult trauma, or depression, anxiety, or even just trying to adjust to a new stage of life. I would be honored to help you manage and conquer what challenges you're facing.
(614) 683-3093 View (614) 683-3093
Photo of Lisa Mengeu, Counselor in Byesville, OH
Lisa Mengeu
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Steubenville, OH 43952
I have been practicing for over 7 years, focusing on PTSD, anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorder, and life changes.
In my practice I provide a comforting relaxing non-judgmental atmosphere in which to process thoughts and feelings at your own pace. I also believe you are the "boss" because I don't live in your head or walk in your shoes. I will make suggestions as to how to cope, challenge, manage thoughts, and feelings while improving relationships through the process. I will never tell you what to do because it is up for you to decide as to what works best. My time with you will be focused on how I can help you become the best version of yourself.
I have been practicing for over 7 years, focusing on PTSD, anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorder, and life changes.
In my practice I provide a comforting relaxing non-judgmental atmosphere in which to process thoughts and feelings at your own pace. I also believe you are the "boss" because I don't live in your head or walk in your shoes. I will make suggestions as to how to cope, challenge, manage thoughts, and feelings while improving relationships through the process. I will never tell you what to do because it is up for you to decide as to what works best. My time with you will be focused on how I can help you become the best version of yourself.
(304) 244-2128 View (304) 244-2128
Photo of Jessica Acord, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Byesville, OH
Jessica Acord
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43221
I am a trauma-informed practitioner with a passion for helping individuals on their healing journeys. My areas of expertise include anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), related trauma responses and personality disorders, including borderline personality disorder.
I am a trauma-informed practitioner with a passion for helping individuals on their healing journeys. My areas of expertise include anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), related trauma responses and personality disorders, including borderline personality disorder.
(440) 271-8121 View (440) 271-8121
Photo of Lisa Audino, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Byesville, OH
Lisa Audino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wadsworth, OH 44281  (Online Only)
I specialize in Borderline personality disorder, PTSD/Trauma, and co-occurring challenges. My scope of practice includes LGBTQ+ concerns, couples (nonmonogamy), and mood disorders. A desire to change is often forged in hardships that are overwhelming, painful, and cause suffering. It can be a difficult path to navigate alone. A therapeutic relationship based on trust, open communication, respect, and empathy is fundamental to overcoming struggles. Whether it is during a transition, an acute stressor, or severe mental illness, I provide a supportive, safe, and non-judgmental environment for youth, adults, families, and couples.
I specialize in Borderline personality disorder, PTSD/Trauma, and co-occurring challenges. My scope of practice includes LGBTQ+ concerns, couples (nonmonogamy), and mood disorders. A desire to change is often forged in hardships that are overwhelming, painful, and cause suffering. It can be a difficult path to navigate alone. A therapeutic relationship based on trust, open communication, respect, and empathy is fundamental to overcoming struggles. Whether it is during a transition, an acute stressor, or severe mental illness, I provide a supportive, safe, and non-judgmental environment for youth, adults, families, and couples.
(207) 806-5383 View (207) 806-5383
Photo of Pursuing Change Counseling, LLC., Licensed Professional Counselor in Byesville, OH
Pursuing Change Counseling, LLC.
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LNHA
Verified Verified
Austintown, OH 44515
Hey there! My name is Sarah Thompson. I have 19 + years of experience in the mental health field, working in many different roles. My education includes a Bachelor's of Applied Science degree in Criminal Justice/ Minoring in Sociology. I hold a Master's of Applied Science degree in Mental Health Counseling. I also hold both a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC.) certification and a Licensed Nursing Home Administrator (LNHA.) license in the state of Ohio. I have experience treating such things as: anxiety, depression, Bi-Polar, Borderline Personality Disorder, ADHD/ADD, grief, addiction, marital issues, trauma, etc.
Hey there! My name is Sarah Thompson. I have 19 + years of experience in the mental health field, working in many different roles. My education includes a Bachelor's of Applied Science degree in Criminal Justice/ Minoring in Sociology. I hold a Master's of Applied Science degree in Mental Health Counseling. I also hold both a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC.) certification and a Licensed Nursing Home Administrator (LNHA.) license in the state of Ohio. I have experience treating such things as: anxiety, depression, Bi-Polar, Borderline Personality Disorder, ADHD/ADD, grief, addiction, marital issues, trauma, etc.
(234) 230-6318 View (234) 230-6318
Photo of Patrick Henry, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Byesville, OH
Patrick Henry
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Worthington, OH 43085
I am an eclectic Christian psychotherapist, and I specialize in treating clients who suffer from depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, and bipolar disorder.
Despite the suffering that is inherent in life, humans are highly resilient beings! This suffering may include being afflicted with mental illness. Part of this resilience is that we are social beings. Thus, it must come as no surprise that Counseling is a career and that it works! Counseling can work very well, for all communities of people if there is a true connection between clinician and client. In my career I have demonstrated the ability to build this connection with my clients, many of whom have made significant progress in treatment, regardless of their condition.
I am an eclectic Christian psychotherapist, and I specialize in treating clients who suffer from depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, and bipolar disorder.
Despite the suffering that is inherent in life, humans are highly resilient beings! This suffering may include being afflicted with mental illness. Part of this resilience is that we are social beings. Thus, it must come as no surprise that Counseling is a career and that it works! Counseling can work very well, for all communities of people if there is a true connection between clinician and client. In my career I have demonstrated the ability to build this connection with my clients, many of whom have made significant progress in treatment, regardless of their condition.
(380) 207-9795 View (380) 207-9795
Photo of Samantha Chadwell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Byesville, OH
Samantha Chadwell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Kent, OH 44240  (Online Only)
Change what you can, manage what you can't (Raymond McCauley). Samantha is a compassionate helper who has worked with many different diagnoses throughout her three years of experience in mental health. She passionately believes that every person is unique and requires a unique approach. Specializing in the treatment of trauma, anxiety, depression, and Borderline Personality Disorder, Samantha provides eclectic treatment, drawing from Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Behavioral Therapies. Samantha is a connector, focusing on helping as many people as she can while reducing mental health stigma and driving for change.
Change what you can, manage what you can't (Raymond McCauley). Samantha is a compassionate helper who has worked with many different diagnoses throughout her three years of experience in mental health. She passionately believes that every person is unique and requires a unique approach. Specializing in the treatment of trauma, anxiety, depression, and Borderline Personality Disorder, Samantha provides eclectic treatment, drawing from Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Behavioral Therapies. Samantha is a connector, focusing on helping as many people as she can while reducing mental health stigma and driving for change.
(440) 276-5691 View (440) 276-5691
Photo of Melanie Pond, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Byesville, OH
Melanie Pond
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43235  (Online Only)
I have experience working with Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Borderline Personality Disorder and Trauma. My goal is to focus on meeting you where you are mentally and emotionally and begin to support your progress. I can help you work towards an understanding and awareness about your concerns and dive into the root of the problem. I can help you discover the lens you are looking at things through and help find and define a new lens to look through.
I have experience working with Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Borderline Personality Disorder and Trauma. My goal is to focus on meeting you where you are mentally and emotionally and begin to support your progress. I can help you work towards an understanding and awareness about your concerns and dive into the root of the problem. I can help you discover the lens you are looking at things through and help find and define a new lens to look through.
(740) 227-4041 View (740) 227-4041
Photo of Shanaye Carr, Licensed Professional Counselor in Byesville, OH
Shanaye Carr
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43230
I received my Master of Education from The Ohio University, specializing in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Rehabilitation Counseling. I worked at a community mental health center, focusing on behavior modification, anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, OCD, borderline personality disorder, trauma-related disorders, and dual diagnosis. I’m equally passionate about self-discovery, spiritual exploration, and working with marginalized groups. I emphasize the importance of multicultural competency in my professional and personal life.
I received my Master of Education from The Ohio University, specializing in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Rehabilitation Counseling. I worked at a community mental health center, focusing on behavior modification, anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, OCD, borderline personality disorder, trauma-related disorders, and dual diagnosis. I’m equally passionate about self-discovery, spiritual exploration, and working with marginalized groups. I emphasize the importance of multicultural competency in my professional and personal life.
(614) 656-7025 View (614) 656-7025
Photo of Mindy Cardelein, Counselor in Byesville, OH
Mindy Cardelein
Counselor, LPCC, CDBT
Verified Verified
Boardman, OH 44512
I have experience in treating anxiety, depression, self esteem issues, borderline personality disorder, trauma, mood disorders, school issues, and family and relationship problems.
I am currently accepting new clients with morning and afternoon availability! Sometimes life throws unexpected surprises and circumstances at us. Often it can be difficult to find someone who understands and can help you through it. What makes the therapeutic relationship unique is having a place to share and process feelings without judgement. As a counselor I strive to help my clients feel comfortable and provide the best care possible. I work with children, adolescents, and adults providing individual, couples, and family therapy.
I have experience in treating anxiety, depression, self esteem issues, borderline personality disorder, trauma, mood disorders, school issues, and family and relationship problems.
I am currently accepting new clients with morning and afternoon availability! Sometimes life throws unexpected surprises and circumstances at us. Often it can be difficult to find someone who understands and can help you through it. What makes the therapeutic relationship unique is having a place to share and process feelings without judgement. As a counselor I strive to help my clients feel comfortable and provide the best care possible. I work with children, adolescents, and adults providing individual, couples, and family therapy.
(330) 400-3938 View (330) 400-3938
Photo of Tee R. Elder, Licensed Professional Counselor in Byesville, OH
Tee R. Elder
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43221
Tee has experience working with clients as young as four years old with an amalgamation of diagnoses such as PTSD, depression, Bipolar disorders, Borderline Personality Disorders, Schizophrenia, Conduct disorders, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders and more.
Tee is passionate about mental health and all clients are her ideal client. Tee truly believes in total wellness and has other passions in social justice, advocacy, and serving my community to promote the wellbeing of her clients. Tee likes to integrate various theories such as CBT, solutions focused, motivational interviewing, play therapy, and has an EMDR in Color certification; loving all things trauma.
Tee has experience working with clients as young as four years old with an amalgamation of diagnoses such as PTSD, depression, Bipolar disorders, Borderline Personality Disorders, Schizophrenia, Conduct disorders, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders and more.
Tee is passionate about mental health and all clients are her ideal client. Tee truly believes in total wellness and has other passions in social justice, advocacy, and serving my community to promote the wellbeing of her clients. Tee likes to integrate various theories such as CBT, solutions focused, motivational interviewing, play therapy, and has an EMDR in Color certification; loving all things trauma.
(614) 820-8014 View (614) 820-8014
Photo of Sara Parko, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Byesville, OH
Sara Parko
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43221  (Online Only)
My expertise also extends to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, BPD, life transitions, sexual assault survivor services and trauma.
I specialize in working with women throughout transitions in life - namely the transition into motherhood. As a Perinatal Mental Health (also known as Maternal Mental Health) Specialist, I’ve received additional training in Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders through Postpartum Support International and appropriate interventions to support growing families. As a mother myself, I also know the challenges and joys of this phase of life and believe that we can all use a little more support.
My expertise also extends to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, BPD, life transitions, sexual assault survivor services and trauma.
I specialize in working with women throughout transitions in life - namely the transition into motherhood. As a Perinatal Mental Health (also known as Maternal Mental Health) Specialist, I’ve received additional training in Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders through Postpartum Support International and appropriate interventions to support growing families. As a mother myself, I also know the challenges and joys of this phase of life and believe that we can all use a little more support.
(614) 660-5529 View (614) 660-5529
Photo of Chris Settel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Byesville, OH
Chris Settel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Dublin, OH 43017  (Online Only)
My clients usually struggle with depression, anxiety, bipolar, borderline personality, OCD, substance abuse, PTSD, and other issues.
I'm a therapist invested in helping my clients build healthier, more successful lives. We will work together to tackle the big issues in a safe space that is filled with humor, real talk, and a focus on making progress toward your goals. I primarily offer treatment online and through coaching via phone/text to be most available to my clients and move them forward.
My clients usually struggle with depression, anxiety, bipolar, borderline personality, OCD, substance abuse, PTSD, and other issues.
I'm a therapist invested in helping my clients build healthier, more successful lives. We will work together to tackle the big issues in a safe space that is filled with humor, real talk, and a focus on making progress toward your goals. I primarily offer treatment online and through coaching via phone/text to be most available to my clients and move them forward.
(706) 873-9116 View (706) 873-9116
Photo of Cook Counseling and Consulting Inc., Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Byesville, OH
Cook Counseling and Consulting Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43230
Hi there! We are Cook Counseling and Consulting Inc., a group of psychotherapists with diverse experiences and specialties. We work with clients with various concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, career challenges, BPD, and trauma. We use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Cognitive Processing (CPT), Dialectical (DBT), Couples Therapy, and Trauma Focused therapies. We believe in treating everyone with respect and working with clients and couples to identify strengths and develop the skills to navigate life's challenges. We also offer supervision for LSWs seeking independent licensure.
Hi there! We are Cook Counseling and Consulting Inc., a group of psychotherapists with diverse experiences and specialties. We work with clients with various concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, career challenges, BPD, and trauma. We use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Cognitive Processing (CPT), Dialectical (DBT), Couples Therapy, and Trauma Focused therapies. We believe in treating everyone with respect and working with clients and couples to identify strengths and develop the skills to navigate life's challenges. We also offer supervision for LSWs seeking independent licensure.
(614) 835-6068 View (614) 835-6068
Photo of Amber L Ault, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Byesville, OH
Amber L Ault
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Upper Arlington, OH 43221
I specialize in working w/ individuals & couples struggling w/ toxic relationship patterns often driven by personality disorders such as Narcissistic Personality Disorder, Anti-social Personality Disorder, and Borderline Personality Disorder.
You're here because you're somewhere between "deeply worried" & "frantic" over a difficult relationship. You feel frustrated, confused, hurt, angry, & maybe a little crazy. The other person may be a partner, parent, sibling, or adult child - someone w/whom you feel you want to have a relationship, but whose criticisms, controlling behaviors. volatility, manipulations, or demands steal your joy. They may also cost you a lot of time, money, energy, social support, & creativity. You wonder if you're dealing w Narcissistic Abuse. They refuse to change. You believe staying stuck where you are may destroy you, and you may be right.
I specialize in working w/ individuals & couples struggling w/ toxic relationship patterns often driven by personality disorders such as Narcissistic Personality Disorder, Anti-social Personality Disorder, and Borderline Personality Disorder.
You're here because you're somewhere between "deeply worried" & "frantic" over a difficult relationship. You feel frustrated, confused, hurt, angry, & maybe a little crazy. The other person may be a partner, parent, sibling, or adult child - someone w/whom you feel you want to have a relationship, but whose criticisms, controlling behaviors. volatility, manipulations, or demands steal your joy. They may also cost you a lot of time, money, energy, social support, & creativity. You wonder if you're dealing w Narcissistic Abuse. They refuse to change. You believe staying stuck where you are may destroy you, and you may be right.
(608) 557-3341 View (608) 557-3341
Photo of Lori Wolfe, Counselor in Byesville, OH
Lori Wolfe
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Chagrin Falls, OH 44023  (Online Only)
Lori also helps people with anger management issues, bipolar disorder, borderline personality, conduct issues, domestic violence, gender identity, grief, LGBTQ+ issues, OCD, phobias, PTSD, and sexual disorders/addictions.
Lori Wolfe earned her master's degree from Ohio University in 1994. She has worked in private practice settings, as well as community mental health. Lori's treatment focus is couples, adults, and very young children. She specializes in helping families with parenting concerns and new mothers experiencing postpartum depression. Lori is adept in assisting couples with marital issues and she has a wealth of experience treating adults with anxiety and depression.
Lori also helps people with anger management issues, bipolar disorder, borderline personality, conduct issues, domestic violence, gender identity, grief, LGBTQ+ issues, OCD, phobias, PTSD, and sexual disorders/addictions.
Lori Wolfe earned her master's degree from Ohio University in 1994. She has worked in private practice settings, as well as community mental health. Lori's treatment focus is couples, adults, and very young children. She specializes in helping families with parenting concerns and new mothers experiencing postpartum depression. Lori is adept in assisting couples with marital issues and she has a wealth of experience treating adults with anxiety and depression.
(216) 208-4909 View (216) 208-4909
Photo of Taylor Williams, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Byesville, OH
Taylor Williams
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Delaware, OH 43015  (Online Only)
Hello, I am Taylor Williams, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with over 9 years of clinical experience. I am trauma certified and DBT-focused on helping diverse individuals who have Borderline Personality, Trauma, PTSD, Life Transitions, Family Conflict, and LGBTQIA+ issues. I utilize a combination of Dialectical (DBT), Trauma Focused, Existential, Feminist, and Holistic therapies. From my experiences, I believe life can improve after learning healthy coping skills and processing the past.
Hello, I am Taylor Williams, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with over 9 years of clinical experience. I am trauma certified and DBT-focused on helping diverse individuals who have Borderline Personality, Trauma, PTSD, Life Transitions, Family Conflict, and LGBTQIA+ issues. I utilize a combination of Dialectical (DBT), Trauma Focused, Existential, Feminist, and Holistic therapies. From my experiences, I believe life can improve after learning healthy coping skills and processing the past.
(740) 631-6471 View (740) 631-6471
Photo of Julianna Waller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Byesville, OH
Julianna Waller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Clairsville, OH 43950
I have had the pleasures of working in different areas of the mental health field including domestic violence, sexual assault, drug and alcohol, and LGBTQIA+. I have been drawn to work with teens and young adults who deal with symptoms of Chronic Illnesses, Bipolar, Borderline Personality Disorder, Addiction, Anxiety, and Depression. I use Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). This is an action-oriented where individuals learn to stop avoiding, denying, and struggling with their inner emotions. They accept that these deeper feelings are natural responses to certain situations that should not prevent them from moving.
I have had the pleasures of working in different areas of the mental health field including domestic violence, sexual assault, drug and alcohol, and LGBTQIA+. I have been drawn to work with teens and young adults who deal with symptoms of Chronic Illnesses, Bipolar, Borderline Personality Disorder, Addiction, Anxiety, and Depression. I use Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). This is an action-oriented where individuals learn to stop avoiding, denying, and struggling with their inner emotions. They accept that these deeper feelings are natural responses to certain situations that should not prevent them from moving.
(740) 267-4349 View (740) 267-4349
Photo of Yaw Karikari, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Byesville, OH
Yaw Karikari
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Dublin, OH 43017
As a therapist, I always had a mission and a vision to guide my practice. My mission is to help a person see the potential they have within themselves. My vision is to lead a person towards their goal and upon attaining their goal, they’ll feel that they were able to accomplish it themselves.
As a therapist, I always had a mission and a vision to guide my practice. My mission is to help a person see the potential they have within themselves. My vision is to lead a person towards their goal and upon attaining their goal, they’ll feel that they were able to accomplish it themselves.
(380) 205-0694 View (380) 205-0694
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.