Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in Los Angeles, CA

Photo of Diadra I Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Diadra I Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Have you been someone who’s felt overwhelmed with managing your day to day? Maybe struggling to connect with loved ones or colleagues? Or just consistently having that feeling that “this just isn’t where I want to be!”? Have you felt this way longer than you’d like to admit? My job is to create a space that is safe, brave, and encourages you to help find your most authentic self. I believe in abolishing what therapy is “supposed” to look like. I will see our relationship as a team effort, asking you for your expertise on your life while I provide guidance through empowerment and advocacy.
Have you been someone who’s felt overwhelmed with managing your day to day? Maybe struggling to connect with loved ones or colleagues? Or just consistently having that feeling that “this just isn’t where I want to be!”? Have you felt this way longer than you’d like to admit? My job is to create a space that is safe, brave, and encourages you to help find your most authentic self. I believe in abolishing what therapy is “supposed” to look like. I will see our relationship as a team effort, asking you for your expertise on your life while I provide guidance through empowerment and advocacy.
(424) 655-3541 View (424) 655-3541
Photo of Larry S Hymes, Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Larry S Hymes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Los Angeles, CA 90036
DBT began as the premiere treatment for Borderline Personality Disorder and then grew to be successfully used for a variety of issues, including: depression, anxiety, impulsivity, couples counselling and substance addiction.
I specialize in treating Borderline Personality Disorder with DBT and also Addiction. I am offering DBT skills groups via Zoom. My private practice is in the heart of West Hollywood. I see individual, couples, & specialized populations (LGBTQ, MFT interns, & single parents.)
DBT began as the premiere treatment for Borderline Personality Disorder and then grew to be successfully used for a variety of issues, including: depression, anxiety, impulsivity, couples counselling and substance addiction.
I specialize in treating Borderline Personality Disorder with DBT and also Addiction. I am offering DBT skills groups via Zoom. My private practice is in the heart of West Hollywood. I see individual, couples, & specialized populations (LGBTQ, MFT interns, & single parents.)
(323) 609-5715 View (323) 609-5715
Photo of Kelsey Harper - Kelsey Harper, Psy.D., Psychologist, PsyD
Kelsey Harper, Psy.D.
Psychologist, PsyD
Online Only
A life worth living is one that is full of relationships, and commitments that align with and express our personal values; a life of meaning and purpose. For many people with trauma, such a life feels like a fantasy, wholly unattainable and not within grasp. We often simply hope for a life we can survive, getting through day to day, weeks, months, and staying alive and ok. But we can hope for more than that from life. We can recover and heal, and learn about ourselves and what makes us come alive. I’m here to help you navigate overwhelming emotion so you can feel safe and grounded; connect to yourself so you feel powerful.
A life worth living is one that is full of relationships, and commitments that align with and express our personal values; a life of meaning and purpose. For many people with trauma, such a life feels like a fantasy, wholly unattainable and not within grasp. We often simply hope for a life we can survive, getting through day to day, weeks, months, and staying alive and ok. But we can hope for more than that from life. We can recover and heal, and learn about ourselves and what makes us come alive. I’m here to help you navigate overwhelming emotion so you can feel safe and grounded; connect to yourself so you feel powerful.
(415) 680-9455 View (415) 680-9455
Photo of Cheryl A. Kempinsky, Psychologist, PhD
Cheryl A. Kempinsky
Psychologist, PhD
Los Angeles, CA 90024
Welcome! Thank you for considering me as your psychologist. My training and professional experience have guided me toward a philosophical outlook towards therapy. I believe that a therapeutic relationship must be mutually engaging, and, as such, involves active participation by both the patient and the clinician. My desire is to help you reach your goals in life, particularly in the context of your values and beliefs, facilitating growth and reaching for a fulfilling life worth living.
Welcome! Thank you for considering me as your psychologist. My training and professional experience have guided me toward a philosophical outlook towards therapy. I believe that a therapeutic relationship must be mutually engaging, and, as such, involves active participation by both the patient and the clinician. My desire is to help you reach your goals in life, particularly in the context of your values and beliefs, facilitating growth and reaching for a fulfilling life worth living.
(424) 216-5847 View (424) 216-5847
Photo of Ciaran Kane Phelps, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Ciaran Kane Phelps
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90005
I am a nonbinary narrative therapist who specializes in trauma & cPTSD (including dissociative disorders, DID, etc), neurodivergence (autism, ADHD, etc), folks who experience big feelings (" BPD" or borderline adjacent), and couples.
I work with all kinds of couples and families, but especially those navigating issues related to gender, race and culture, neurodivergence (and differences in neurotype), & open/ENM/polyamory dynamics. I also love working with young people ages 10+ through big and small life events and challenges, particularly with trans and queer youth.
I am a nonbinary narrative therapist who specializes in trauma & cPTSD (including dissociative disorders, DID, etc), neurodivergence (autism, ADHD, etc), folks who experience big feelings (" BPD" or borderline adjacent), and couples.
I work with all kinds of couples and families, but especially those navigating issues related to gender, race and culture, neurodivergence (and differences in neurotype), & open/ENM/polyamory dynamics. I also love working with young people ages 10+ through big and small life events and challenges, particularly with trans and queer youth.
(424) 363-4350 View (424) 363-4350
Photo of Shelly Elia-Shalev, Pre-Licensed Professional, AMFT
Shelly Elia-Shalev
Pre-Licensed Professional, AMFT
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90042
Many of my clients come to therapy feeling flooded, disconnected, or overwhelmed by their emotions. They often wonder why they can’t find lasting relief, or why relationships feel so hard to maintain. It can seem as though no amount of support or connection is enough—or that what’s available can’t be trusted or understood. Often, these struggles are rooted in childhood trauma, attachment wounds, or patterns learned early in life. Together, we’ll explore how these experiences shaped your relationships, self-esteem, and emotional regulation—and begin to heal the younger parts within you that still carry pain.
Many of my clients come to therapy feeling flooded, disconnected, or overwhelmed by their emotions. They often wonder why they can’t find lasting relief, or why relationships feel so hard to maintain. It can seem as though no amount of support or connection is enough—or that what’s available can’t be trusted or understood. Often, these struggles are rooted in childhood trauma, attachment wounds, or patterns learned early in life. Together, we’ll explore how these experiences shaped your relationships, self-esteem, and emotional regulation—and begin to heal the younger parts within you that still carry pain.
(323) 709-0894 View (323) 709-0894
Photo of Kate Goalen, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Kate Goalen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Los Angeles, CA 90066
The benefit of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is the versatility in its application to the many things one can struggle with in life. This may be the right approach for you if you are looking for relief from a struggle with emotion dysregulation (feeling as though your emotions are in the driver's seat and not you), Anxiety/Depression or other mood disorders, personality disorder, disordered eating behaviors, relationship issues, life-transition difficulties, trauma, grief, substance use, dissociation, behavioral issues, self-harm. If you are unsure if this is the right fit for your goals, please feel free to reach out and chat.
The benefit of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is the versatility in its application to the many things one can struggle with in life. This may be the right approach for you if you are looking for relief from a struggle with emotion dysregulation (feeling as though your emotions are in the driver's seat and not you), Anxiety/Depression or other mood disorders, personality disorder, disordered eating behaviors, relationship issues, life-transition difficulties, trauma, grief, substance use, dissociation, behavioral issues, self-harm. If you are unsure if this is the right fit for your goals, please feel free to reach out and chat.
(714) 242-8622 View (714) 242-8622
Photo of Kate James, Pre-Licensed Professional, AMFT
Kate James
Pre-Licensed Professional, AMFT
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90064
Life can be complicated, and there isn’t a handbook for managing issues like anxiety, depression, addiction, and relationships. It’s important to know that you’re not alone, and these challenges are growth opportunities. You’re probably here because you feel it’s time to “do something different.” Let our team at Meridian Counseling guide you on this journey. We specialize in treating addictions, relationships, mood disorders, and trauma and helping clients like you find direction in life. Real change comes from understanding the root causes of your problems, connecting with your emotions, and learning new skills to navigate life’s
Life can be complicated, and there isn’t a handbook for managing issues like anxiety, depression, addiction, and relationships. It’s important to know that you’re not alone, and these challenges are growth opportunities. You’re probably here because you feel it’s time to “do something different.” Let our team at Meridian Counseling guide you on this journey. We specialize in treating addictions, relationships, mood disorders, and trauma and helping clients like you find direction in life. Real change comes from understanding the root causes of your problems, connecting with your emotions, and learning new skills to navigate life’s
(818) 435-3419 View (818) 435-3419
Photo of Sarah Sasha A Gutstein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Sarah Sasha A Gutstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Los Angeles, CA 90064
Being able to have meaningful relationships in your life takes effort and can make a difference in the difficult situations that you may face during a lifetime. Sometimes the ghosts from our past make it hard to trust and communicate with our loved ones. Your past and present environmental stressors and relationships can shape who you are today and create feelings of depression and anxiety. At times, doing anything to cope seems necessary. However, with therapy, you can find those strengths that you already have and bring them to light in order to change your quality of life for the better.
Being able to have meaningful relationships in your life takes effort and can make a difference in the difficult situations that you may face during a lifetime. Sometimes the ghosts from our past make it hard to trust and communicate with our loved ones. Your past and present environmental stressors and relationships can shape who you are today and create feelings of depression and anxiety. At times, doing anything to cope seems necessary. However, with therapy, you can find those strengths that you already have and bring them to light in order to change your quality of life for the better.
(310) 431-9999 View (310) 431-9999
Photo of Sharon S Dunas, Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Sharon S Dunas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Los Angeles, CA 90024
Let me help you learn to cope and advocate for your relative with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, depression with psychotic features, panic attacks, obsessive compulsive disorder and borderline personality disorder.
I help families gain knowledge about the cause, treatment, and prognosis of the major brain disorders. I help families learn about brain biology and to create a family environment that will contribute to a favorable outcome if their relative is diagnosed with a catastrophic brain illness. Recovery is possible today when the family is educated.
Let me help you learn to cope and advocate for your relative with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, depression with psychotic features, panic attacks, obsessive compulsive disorder and borderline personality disorder.
I help families gain knowledge about the cause, treatment, and prognosis of the major brain disorders. I help families learn about brain biology and to create a family environment that will contribute to a favorable outcome if their relative is diagnosed with a catastrophic brain illness. Recovery is possible today when the family is educated.
(310) 207-3505 View (310) 207-3505
Photo of Jennifer L'Herbette, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jennifer L'Herbette
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I believe that the goal of therapy is to help my clients obtain the insight and coping skills they need to create full and satisfying lives. I am able to see a person's potential, and use their innate strengths to help them rebuild their lives. We do this by creating a therapeutic relationship based on honesty, acceptance and empathy while working towards change.
I believe that the goal of therapy is to help my clients obtain the insight and coping skills they need to create full and satisfying lives. I am able to see a person's potential, and use their innate strengths to help them rebuild their lives. We do this by creating a therapeutic relationship based on honesty, acceptance and empathy while working towards change.
(213) 539-5924 View (213) 539-5924
Photo of Jackson Wall, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC, MA
Jackson Wall
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC, MA
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
I help high achieving adults, teens, and families navigate the rollercoaster of trauma and anxiety using evidence-based tools like EMDR and DBT. If you're feeling stuck in cycles of frustration or hopelessness, I work with my clients on creating a concrete path toward confidence and safety. In addition to individual, couples, and family therapy, I also lead specialized DBT skills groups for teens and young adults looking for community and practical coping tools.
I help high achieving adults, teens, and families navigate the rollercoaster of trauma and anxiety using evidence-based tools like EMDR and DBT. If you're feeling stuck in cycles of frustration or hopelessness, I work with my clients on creating a concrete path toward confidence and safety. In addition to individual, couples, and family therapy, I also lead specialized DBT skills groups for teens and young adults looking for community and practical coping tools.
(747) 204-0559 View (747) 204-0559
Photo of Susan Horvat, Counselor, MA, LPCC
Susan Horvat
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Online Only
I specialize in working with adults experiencing symptoms of Borderline Personality Disorder ( BPD) and/or complex trauma.
Hi there and welcome! Whether this is your first time considering therapy or you've engaged in therapy for years, I look forward to getting to know you and figuring out how I might be most helpful. Over the past 12 years, I've worked with many individuals who are neurodiverse, sensitive, and creative. Most have struggled with some combination of the following: intense, overwhelming emotions, anxiety, depression, irritability, impulsivity, substance abuse, disordered eating, unstable relationships, fears of abandonment, shame, self-hatred, feeling misunderstood, identity disturbance, dissociation, self-harm, and/or suicidality.
I specialize in working with adults experiencing symptoms of Borderline Personality Disorder ( BPD) and/or complex trauma.
Hi there and welcome! Whether this is your first time considering therapy or you've engaged in therapy for years, I look forward to getting to know you and figuring out how I might be most helpful. Over the past 12 years, I've worked with many individuals who are neurodiverse, sensitive, and creative. Most have struggled with some combination of the following: intense, overwhelming emotions, anxiety, depression, irritability, impulsivity, substance abuse, disordered eating, unstable relationships, fears of abandonment, shame, self-hatred, feeling misunderstood, identity disturbance, dissociation, self-harm, and/or suicidality.
(714) 408-7006 View (714) 408-7006
Photo of Nakisa Choupani, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Nakisa Choupani
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
The experiences and interactions we have throughout our lifetime can have an impact on our well-being, thoughts, emotions, relationships and decision making. As we begin to understand our thoughts, emotions and behaviors we may be able to face life challenges in more effective ways. At times, attempting to understand ourselves without any support can feel confusing or exhausting. In therapy sessions I will provide you with support in a collaborative and safe space as you discuss past challenges or current stressors. Sessions are individually tailored to meet your therapy goals.
The experiences and interactions we have throughout our lifetime can have an impact on our well-being, thoughts, emotions, relationships and decision making. As we begin to understand our thoughts, emotions and behaviors we may be able to face life challenges in more effective ways. At times, attempting to understand ourselves without any support can feel confusing or exhausting. In therapy sessions I will provide you with support in a collaborative and safe space as you discuss past challenges or current stressors. Sessions are individually tailored to meet your therapy goals.
(424) 377-6984 View (424) 377-6984
Photo of Abby Rose, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Abby Rose
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90041
We all hold experiences that make moving forward hard. Maybe you're carrying pain from the past or questioning who you are and where you belong. I specialize in supporting teens and adults working through emotional dysfunction, trauma, relationship issues, and identity exploration. Many of my clients feel stuck in patterns they don’t fully understand or struggle to show up as their full selves, especially in environments that haven’t always felt safe. As a queer therapist, I prioritize providing an affirming space for clients to explore their identity and relationships.
We all hold experiences that make moving forward hard. Maybe you're carrying pain from the past or questioning who you are and where you belong. I specialize in supporting teens and adults working through emotional dysfunction, trauma, relationship issues, and identity exploration. Many of my clients feel stuck in patterns they don’t fully understand or struggle to show up as their full selves, especially in environments that haven’t always felt safe. As a queer therapist, I prioritize providing an affirming space for clients to explore their identity and relationships.
(818) 491-7849 View (818) 491-7849
Photo of Diane DeMartino, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Diane DeMartino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Los Angeles, CA 90025
I help clients with emotion regulation, executive function, and relationships, including those with BPD, ADHD, and entertainment industry stress.
I work with thoughtful, creative, and emotionally sensitive young adults and professionals navigating the demands of modern life. Many of the people I see experience intense emotions, sensory overload, or chronic feelings of being overwhelmed. They are often capable and driven, yet find themselves struggling to translate insight into stability, balance, and fulfillment. Together, we focus on building lives that honor their strengths while reducing suffering and increasing flexibility, self-respect, and connection.
I help clients with emotion regulation, executive function, and relationships, including those with BPD, ADHD, and entertainment industry stress.
I work with thoughtful, creative, and emotionally sensitive young adults and professionals navigating the demands of modern life. Many of the people I see experience intense emotions, sensory overload, or chronic feelings of being overwhelmed. They are often capable and driven, yet find themselves struggling to translate insight into stability, balance, and fulfillment. Together, we focus on building lives that honor their strengths while reducing suffering and increasing flexibility, self-respect, and connection.
(323) 991-8392 View (323) 991-8392
Photo of Camilla Lettini, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Camilla Lettini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90064
Starting therapy can feel overwhelming, but we’re here to make it as seamless as possible. We offer both in-person and telehealth appointments, with flexible scheduling including evenings and weekends. Once you reach out, our intake team will match you with a therapist whose experience, style, and specialty best align with your goals.
Starting therapy can feel overwhelming, but we’re here to make it as seamless as possible. We offer both in-person and telehealth appointments, with flexible scheduling including evenings and weekends. Once you reach out, our intake team will match you with a therapist whose experience, style, and specialty best align with your goals.
(818) 616-8823 View (818) 616-8823
Photo of Amancay Ledezma, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Amancay Ledezma
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90066
Amancay Ledezma is an LCSW who provides therapy for adolescents, adults and couples. Amancay believes in life-long learning and recognizes that in absence of learning, growth cannot happen. She values this dynamic in a therapeutic relationship, as it creates accountability and a willingness to seek out that personal growth. Amancay embraces an individualized approach, focused on the needs and desired outcomes of each client.
Amancay Ledezma is an LCSW who provides therapy for adolescents, adults and couples. Amancay believes in life-long learning and recognizes that in absence of learning, growth cannot happen. She values this dynamic in a therapeutic relationship, as it creates accountability and a willingness to seek out that personal growth. Amancay embraces an individualized approach, focused on the needs and desired outcomes of each client.
(310) 742-1963 View (310) 742-1963
Photo of Jai Long, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Jai Long
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Have you ever reached a place in your life where you have felt stuck and unable to get out of a rut no matter what you do? It's a common occurrence across race, culture, class, gender or whatever other categories we like to use. Things such as anxiety, hopelessness, depression, and lack of ability to navigate interpersonal relationships can serve as roadblocks that keep us get to a place where we feel fulfilled. In a nonjudgmental and safe space, I will work with you to identify these barriers and build the tools and skills necessary for you navigate life and stay on the path toward your personal goals.
Have you ever reached a place in your life where you have felt stuck and unable to get out of a rut no matter what you do? It's a common occurrence across race, culture, class, gender or whatever other categories we like to use. Things such as anxiety, hopelessness, depression, and lack of ability to navigate interpersonal relationships can serve as roadblocks that keep us get to a place where we feel fulfilled. In a nonjudgmental and safe space, I will work with you to identify these barriers and build the tools and skills necessary for you navigate life and stay on the path toward your personal goals.
(213) 319-4828 View (213) 319-4828
Photo of Erin Lotz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Erin Lotz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90064
Erin Lotz, L.C.S.W., Licensed Clinical Social Worker, earned her Masters Degree in Clinical Social Work from the University of Southern California, and is a well respected Psychotherapist who integrates traditional psychodynamic psychotherapy with progressive psychotherapeutic principles of Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. Erin offers practical strategies to calming our "anxious minds", facilitating greater self acceptance, freedom and inner peace.
Erin Lotz, L.C.S.W., Licensed Clinical Social Worker, earned her Masters Degree in Clinical Social Work from the University of Southern California, and is a well respected Psychotherapist who integrates traditional psychodynamic psychotherapy with progressive psychotherapeutic principles of Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. Erin offers practical strategies to calming our "anxious minds", facilitating greater self acceptance, freedom and inner peace.
(310) 455-8286 View (310) 455-8286

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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.