Photo of Erin Johnston, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin Johnston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
My special interests include Anxiety, Asperger's, Borderline Personality Disorder, artists/creatives, and therapists in therapy.
I use a collaborative model, where sessions feel like two people having a conversation in my living room, versus a stereotypical doctor/patient interaction. I don't view your issues as coming from an abnormal psychopathology, but instead as a reaction to living in a stressful, complex, and contradictory world. I seek to understand your issues in the context of your unique experience rather than viewing you as having something wrong or being broken. My focus is on what you need from me....I take my lead from you.
My special interests include Anxiety, Asperger's, Borderline Personality Disorder, artists/creatives, and therapists in therapy.
I use a collaborative model, where sessions feel like two people having a conversation in my living room, versus a stereotypical doctor/patient interaction. I don't view your issues as coming from an abnormal psychopathology, but instead as a reaction to living in a stressful, complex, and contradictory world. I seek to understand your issues in the context of your unique experience rather than viewing you as having something wrong or being broken. My focus is on what you need from me....I take my lead from you.
(872) 219-0379 View (872) 219-0379
Photo of Hazel Patel-Krueger, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hazel Patel-Krueger
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60614  (Online Only)
I specialize in OCD, mood related disorders, attachment concerns, trauma (I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional), anxiety, and Borderline personality.
Welcome! With a dual background in Clinical Psychology and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), I bring an integrative approach to therapy along with 8 years of experience. My Clinical Psychology expertise allows me to understand the complexities of human behavior, emotions, and mental health disorders. Additionally, my proficiency in ABA empowers me to utilize scientifically validated principles to bring about positive behavioral changes. By combining these two disciplines, this enables me to create individualized treatment plans, fostering sustainable progress, and empowering clients to achieve their therapeutic goals effectively.
I specialize in OCD, mood related disorders, attachment concerns, trauma (I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional), anxiety, and Borderline personality.
Welcome! With a dual background in Clinical Psychology and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), I bring an integrative approach to therapy along with 8 years of experience. My Clinical Psychology expertise allows me to understand the complexities of human behavior, emotions, and mental health disorders. Additionally, my proficiency in ABA empowers me to utilize scientifically validated principles to bring about positive behavioral changes. By combining these two disciplines, this enables me to create individualized treatment plans, fostering sustainable progress, and empowering clients to achieve their therapeutic goals effectively.
(720) 706-5877 View (720) 706-5877
Photo of Kay Segal, PsyD, DBT-LBC, Psychologist
Kay Segal
Psychologist, PsyD, DBT-LBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60626
Chicago DBT Institute at The Center for Mindfulness and Behavior Therapy - DBT-Linehan Board of Certification, Certified Program(tm)- is a specialty clinic that serves teens and adults who are exhibiting self-endangering behaviors and/or emerging or established borderline personality traits, such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, self-harm, impulsivity, post-traumatic stress, and/or emotional instability. Our scientifically-based interventions incorporate skills to help patients recognize and face their emotions skillfully and overcome the self-destructive coping behaviors that have plagued their lives.
Chicago DBT Institute at The Center for Mindfulness and Behavior Therapy - DBT-Linehan Board of Certification, Certified Program(tm)- is a specialty clinic that serves teens and adults who are exhibiting self-endangering behaviors and/or emerging or established borderline personality traits, such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, self-harm, impulsivity, post-traumatic stress, and/or emotional instability. Our scientifically-based interventions incorporate skills to help patients recognize and face their emotions skillfully and overcome the self-destructive coping behaviors that have plagued their lives.
(847) 416-2063 View (847) 416-2063
Photo of Terry Ann Dornak, PsyD, Psychologist
Terry Ann Dornak
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60647
Some of the common issues I help my clients address include chronic pain, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, trauma, and LGBTQ+ related issues.
It is my goal to provide you with a safe, therapeutic space to unload and explore your needs, worries, and fears whatever they may be. The path to healing is unique for each of us. We will work collaboratively towards meeting your goals and needs, and in doing so, make your life more comfortable and satisfying. It is my hope that each person who meets with me feels accepted, as I respect each individual's culture, gender, race, religion, and sexual identity.
Some of the common issues I help my clients address include chronic pain, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, trauma, and LGBTQ+ related issues.
It is my goal to provide you with a safe, therapeutic space to unload and explore your needs, worries, and fears whatever they may be. The path to healing is unique for each of us. We will work collaboratively towards meeting your goals and needs, and in doing so, make your life more comfortable and satisfying. It is my hope that each person who meets with me feels accepted, as I respect each individual's culture, gender, race, religion, and sexual identity.
(847) 613-4055 View (847) 613-4055
Photo of Krista Mersino, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Krista Mersino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience in working with borderline personality disorder, depression, self-esteem challenges, anger, and generalized anxiety.
I utilize a growth-oriented approach to empower people to problem solve and make changes to pursue the life they envision. Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) strategies are used in my practice, with an emphasis on the use of trauma-sensitive mindfulness, to equip people with the skills needed to overcome life’s stressors and challenges. In dialectics, we acknowledge the opposing sides of each experience and work together to synthesize the two. I prioritize developing a safe, trusting therapeutic relationship that will meet you where you are at in your journey, and will come alongside you to cultivate your strengths.
I have experience in working with borderline personality disorder, depression, self-esteem challenges, anger, and generalized anxiety.
I utilize a growth-oriented approach to empower people to problem solve and make changes to pursue the life they envision. Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) strategies are used in my practice, with an emphasis on the use of trauma-sensitive mindfulness, to equip people with the skills needed to overcome life’s stressors and challenges. In dialectics, we acknowledge the opposing sides of each experience and work together to synthesize the two. I prioritize developing a safe, trusting therapeutic relationship that will meet you where you are at in your journey, and will come alongside you to cultivate your strengths.
(773) 922-9010 View (773) 922-9010
Photo of Victoria Ann Kessinger, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Victoria Ann Kessinger
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
Victoria is the founder of Great Lakes Therapy Center (GLTC) and a DBT-Linehan Board of Certification, Certified Therapist. At GLTC, she provides individual therapy, leads DBT skills groups and supervises other therapists. She has many years of experience providing comprehensive DBT and specializes in treating Borderline Personality Disorder. In addition to providing DBT, Victoria uses the DBT Prolonged Exposure protocol to treat Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Victoria is the founder of Great Lakes Therapy Center (GLTC) and a DBT-Linehan Board of Certification, Certified Therapist. At GLTC, she provides individual therapy, leads DBT skills groups and supervises other therapists. She has many years of experience providing comprehensive DBT and specializes in treating Borderline Personality Disorder. In addition to providing DBT, Victoria uses the DBT Prolonged Exposure protocol to treat Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
(312) 313-0481 View (312) 313-0481
Photo of Mandie Maurer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mandie Maurer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60605  (Online Only)
Struggling with self-esteem, relationships, or childhood trauma? Alternatively, has Borderline Personality Disorder been mentioned and you're wondering if it fits your struggles? With a speciality in working with these areas, I've helped my clients improve their relationships, their ability to love and trust, and also to reach deep healing. Additionally, for those of you here and not from here seeking an internationally-experienced clinician, from my experiences working with diverse international expat populations in Tokyo, Japan, I can offer specialized services regarding struggles with the expatriate/int'l resident experience.
Struggling with self-esteem, relationships, or childhood trauma? Alternatively, has Borderline Personality Disorder been mentioned and you're wondering if it fits your struggles? With a speciality in working with these areas, I've helped my clients improve their relationships, their ability to love and trust, and also to reach deep healing. Additionally, for those of you here and not from here seeking an internationally-experienced clinician, from my experiences working with diverse international expat populations in Tokyo, Japan, I can offer specialized services regarding struggles with the expatriate/int'l resident experience.
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Photo of Beth Brownfield, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Beth Brownfield
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60660
I have experience working with the LGBTQ+ community, working with Eating Disorders, Depression, Anxiety, Borderline Personality Disorder, Mood Disorders, life transitions, and trauma.
I feel every person deserves to have a space where they feel heard and supported. Therapy should be a space where you feel safe to explore, laugh, cry, and reach those goals you have been thinking about. I will work to provide a space that you can feel safe and together we can accomplish this goal. I believe therapy is about exploration and understanding. Sometimes we go through life not feeling connected to ourselves, those around us, or activities that once made us happy. We can use this space to discover how to bring fulfillment back into your life, as it is possible!
I have experience working with the LGBTQ+ community, working with Eating Disorders, Depression, Anxiety, Borderline Personality Disorder, Mood Disorders, life transitions, and trauma.
I feel every person deserves to have a space where they feel heard and supported. Therapy should be a space where you feel safe to explore, laugh, cry, and reach those goals you have been thinking about. I will work to provide a space that you can feel safe and together we can accomplish this goal. I believe therapy is about exploration and understanding. Sometimes we go through life not feeling connected to ourselves, those around us, or activities that once made us happy. We can use this space to discover how to bring fulfillment back into your life, as it is possible!
(773) 985-6193 View (773) 985-6193
Photo of Casey McDonagh, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Casey McDonagh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with clients who are struggling with their identity, relationships, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, trauma, substance use, and body image/disordered eating.
I have experience working with both adolescents and adults, providing individual therapy and group therapy in private practice, outpatient treatment, and inpatient treatment settings. I believe that healing and growth is possible when we are met with support, compassion, and accountability. I take a holistic and non-judgmental approach to help my clients meet their goals, explore their relationships, and feel more confident in their decisions.
I specialize in working with clients who are struggling with their identity, relationships, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, trauma, substance use, and body image/disordered eating.
I have experience working with both adolescents and adults, providing individual therapy and group therapy in private practice, outpatient treatment, and inpatient treatment settings. I believe that healing and growth is possible when we are met with support, compassion, and accountability. I take a holistic and non-judgmental approach to help my clients meet their goals, explore their relationships, and feel more confident in their decisions.
(773) 389-2639 View (773) 389-2639
Photo of undefined - Clarity Clinic- Chicago, MSW, CADC, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Clarity Clinic- Chicago
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, CADC, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611
Deja specializes in Addiction/Substance Abuse Alcoholism Anger Management Anxiety Bipolar Disorder Borderline Personality Disorder DBT/CBT Depression Grief and Loss/Bereavement LGBTQ Major Depressive Disorder Mindfulness Mood Disorders Personality Disorder Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) - Trauma Relationship Issues Sadness Self Esteem .
Growing up on the south side of Chicago, Deja has watched mental illness and illicit drug use disrupt the lives of strangers, family and friends. She sought out a degree that will allow her to help individuals heal mentally and emotionally. Her focus is re-building individuals and families broken by mental illness and substance use. Deja’s mission is to guide individuals to their highest selves through self-awareness and therapeutic intervention. She aims to help her clients create internal stability,so they can control their external reality. She believes that it takes a collective effort for a person to grow into their best selves
Deja specializes in Addiction/Substance Abuse Alcoholism Anger Management Anxiety Bipolar Disorder Borderline Personality Disorder DBT/CBT Depression Grief and Loss/Bereavement LGBTQ Major Depressive Disorder Mindfulness Mood Disorders Personality Disorder Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) - Trauma Relationship Issues Sadness Self Esteem .
Growing up on the south side of Chicago, Deja has watched mental illness and illicit drug use disrupt the lives of strangers, family and friends. She sought out a degree that will allow her to help individuals heal mentally and emotionally. Her focus is re-building individuals and families broken by mental illness and substance use. Deja’s mission is to guide individuals to their highest selves through self-awareness and therapeutic intervention. She aims to help her clients create internal stability,so they can control their external reality. She believes that it takes a collective effort for a person to grow into their best selves
(312) 764-1606 View (312) 764-1606
Photo of Bridget Suse, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bridget Suse
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60622
I work with individuals who are looking for a space to work through their thoughts, feelings and behaviors free of judgment and shame. My clients are seeking to bring awareness to patterns that are no longer serving them and develop new skills to improve their quality of life. I have worked in a variety of treatment settings and welcome people of all races, sizes, genders, ethnicities, abilities and orientations. My past experience includes specializing in patients with depression and anxiety, binge eating and body image distress, Borderline Personality Disorder and other struggles in regulating emotions and managing relationships.
I work with individuals who are looking for a space to work through their thoughts, feelings and behaviors free of judgment and shame. My clients are seeking to bring awareness to patterns that are no longer serving them and develop new skills to improve their quality of life. I have worked in a variety of treatment settings and welcome people of all races, sizes, genders, ethnicities, abilities and orientations. My past experience includes specializing in patients with depression and anxiety, binge eating and body image distress, Borderline Personality Disorder and other struggles in regulating emotions and managing relationships.
(773) 850-3511 View (773) 850-3511
Photo of Shana Mehta, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Shana Mehta
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
Dr. Shana Mehta works with teenagers and adults who struggle with various forms of anxiety, depression, and eating disorders. She has expertise with individuals who experience mood difficulties, generalized anxiety or panic, obsessive-compulsive disorder, borderline personality disorder, addiction, trauma, divorce, parenting difficulties, and significant life transitions. Additionally, she specializes in eating disorder treatment, specifically binge eating, compulsive overeating, emotional overeating, and mindless eating.
Dr. Shana Mehta works with teenagers and adults who struggle with various forms of anxiety, depression, and eating disorders. She has expertise with individuals who experience mood difficulties, generalized anxiety or panic, obsessive-compulsive disorder, borderline personality disorder, addiction, trauma, divorce, parenting difficulties, and significant life transitions. Additionally, she specializes in eating disorder treatment, specifically binge eating, compulsive overeating, emotional overeating, and mindless eating.
(630) 716-9361 View (630) 716-9361
Photo of Sophia Cortes-Moreno, MS, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Sophia Cortes-Moreno
Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60631
I specialize in working with the Hispanic/Latino population (proveo terapia en Español), trauma/abuse concerns, sexuality concerns, cultural/racial concerns, and those diagnosed with BPD.
Life can often cause us to question who we are, where we fit in, and how to navigate its toughest moments. Perhaps you’re ready to begin working through the challenging traumatic experiences that are a part of your story and you are here seeking support. Perhaps you are struggling with finding your place in spaces that may question who you are based on your racial/cultural identity or your sexuality; or you’re simply exhausted with carrying physical, emotional, or sexually traumatic wounds and you would like a safe space to process these concerns. Your experiences are your truths but you can find support to make your future yours.
I specialize in working with the Hispanic/Latino population (proveo terapia en Español), trauma/abuse concerns, sexuality concerns, cultural/racial concerns, and those diagnosed with BPD.
Life can often cause us to question who we are, where we fit in, and how to navigate its toughest moments. Perhaps you’re ready to begin working through the challenging traumatic experiences that are a part of your story and you are here seeking support. Perhaps you are struggling with finding your place in spaces that may question who you are based on your racial/cultural identity or your sexuality; or you’re simply exhausted with carrying physical, emotional, or sexually traumatic wounds and you would like a safe space to process these concerns. Your experiences are your truths but you can find support to make your future yours.
(331) 259-8472 View (331) 259-8472
Photo of Mary M Clarke, PhD, Psychologist
Mary M Clarke
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60641
Waitlist for new clients
Other specialty areas: personality concerns (BPD, etc.
For 20 years, I have provided safe, affirming trauma therapy for adults, couples, and groups. I also have the experience and education to provide therapy for many other relationship, mood, and dissociative concerns. I am straightforward, collaborative, and endeavor to be empowering. My therapy style is relational and includes a focus on emotion & body connection and your whole picture of health. We will work together to create peace and fullness in your life.
Other specialty areas: personality concerns (BPD, etc.
For 20 years, I have provided safe, affirming trauma therapy for adults, couples, and groups. I also have the experience and education to provide therapy for many other relationship, mood, and dissociative concerns. I am straightforward, collaborative, and endeavor to be empowering. My therapy style is relational and includes a focus on emotion & body connection and your whole picture of health. We will work together to create peace and fullness in your life.
(773) 770-8540 View (773) 770-8540
Photo of Rachel Fried, PsyD, Psychologist
Rachel Fried
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614
I specialize in treating Borderline Personality Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Related Disorders, anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, trauma, and substance use disorders.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in California and Illinois and work with a group of talented clinicians at Evidence Based Therapy Partners. I focus on providing evidence-based treatment with fidelity. I recognize that therapy can be a difficult experience. I work hard to ensure that my clients feel understood and validated. I believe that change naturally flows from acceptance, and therefore strive to bring a non-judgmental and accepting stance to the struggles of my clients.
I specialize in treating Borderline Personality Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Related Disorders, anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, trauma, and substance use disorders.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in California and Illinois and work with a group of talented clinicians at Evidence Based Therapy Partners. I focus on providing evidence-based treatment with fidelity. I recognize that therapy can be a difficult experience. I work hard to ensure that my clients feel understood and validated. I believe that change naturally flows from acceptance, and therefore strive to bring a non-judgmental and accepting stance to the struggles of my clients.
(818) 651-8679 View (818) 651-8679
Photo of Charity Northan, MA, MS
Charity Northan
MA, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
With over 20 years of experience working with the SMI population and in crisis counseling, I have worked with people who struggle with borderline personality disorder, trauma and crisis.
People who come to me struggle to get a grip on life. They notice their mood is up and down, their relationships are unstable, and they find it difficult to focus. Deep down they struggle with anger at people in their lives, and also themselves. They are reliving past trauma as if it happened yesterday. I want to help you find peace in your life and faith to move forward. You deserve to be happy and move forward. As an international counselor and a certified life coach, I want to help you process through past hurts and find the way forward. Don't get me wrong, counseling is hard work. But together we can get you strong again.
With over 20 years of experience working with the SMI population and in crisis counseling, I have worked with people who struggle with borderline personality disorder, trauma and crisis.
People who come to me struggle to get a grip on life. They notice their mood is up and down, their relationships are unstable, and they find it difficult to focus. Deep down they struggle with anger at people in their lives, and also themselves. They are reliving past trauma as if it happened yesterday. I want to help you find peace in your life and faith to move forward. You deserve to be happy and move forward. As an international counselor and a certified life coach, I want to help you process through past hurts and find the way forward. Don't get me wrong, counseling is hard work. But together we can get you strong again.
(602) 529-4427 View (602) 529-4427
Photo of Ellie Schwartzman, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ellie Schwartzman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
You want to connect, but too often your efforts end with you feeling more alone. There are so many miscommunications and hurt feelings. You’re trying to be authentic – but it feels like you’re not heard - not really seen. The last thing you want is to set yourself up to be hurt again. Your plans and interests are little comfort when you feel so isolated and disconnected and trusting others seems to come with so much risk. Know that this is not how it has to be. You can have the relationships and experiences you want – not simply settling for what is available. It's common to feel lost and unsure or where to begin.
You want to connect, but too often your efforts end with you feeling more alone. There are so many miscommunications and hurt feelings. You’re trying to be authentic – but it feels like you’re not heard - not really seen. The last thing you want is to set yourself up to be hurt again. Your plans and interests are little comfort when you feel so isolated and disconnected and trusting others seems to come with so much risk. Know that this is not how it has to be. You can have the relationships and experiences you want – not simply settling for what is available. It's common to feel lost and unsure or where to begin.
(312) 734-1593 View (312) 734-1593
Photo of Karina Rodriguez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karina Rodriguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60638
Hola, my name is Karina Rodriguez. I am a Licensed Clinical Social worker (LCSW), fluent in English and Spanish, with a background of working with adolescents and families in various situations including inpatient and partial hospitalization, residential facilities, private practice, and DCFS. I use a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy. I explore thoughts and their relationship to their emotions, believing that our interpretation of events creates our reality and contributes to the development of feelings that cause discomfort and distress.
Hola, my name is Karina Rodriguez. I am a Licensed Clinical Social worker (LCSW), fluent in English and Spanish, with a background of working with adolescents and families in various situations including inpatient and partial hospitalization, residential facilities, private practice, and DCFS. I use a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy. I explore thoughts and their relationship to their emotions, believing that our interpretation of events creates our reality and contributes to the development of feelings that cause discomfort and distress.
(708) 742-6424 View (708) 742-6424
Photo of J Alex Sanger, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
J Alex Sanger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
Consideration of entering therapy can feel like an overwhelming task, especially if you are struggling, feeling like "nothing will change", in transition or have been hurt in previous relationships. I provide a safe, trusting and non-judgmental environment in which we work together on your challenges. While I bring knowledge and experience to our work, you are the expert on you: your goals and feedback on the process will drive our work together. Clients have provided me with excellent feedback, stating that I am open, empathic and good-natured about the difficulties of change.
Consideration of entering therapy can feel like an overwhelming task, especially if you are struggling, feeling like "nothing will change", in transition or have been hurt in previous relationships. I provide a safe, trusting and non-judgmental environment in which we work together on your challenges. While I bring knowledge and experience to our work, you are the expert on you: your goals and feedback on the process will drive our work together. Clients have provided me with excellent feedback, stating that I am open, empathic and good-natured about the difficulties of change.
(312) 548-1577 View (312) 548-1577
Photo of Lola Wang, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lola Wang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661
I appreciate your willingness to take the time to put yourself first and look for a new therapist. In working with me, you will find a safe space where differences are honored. Together, we will explore challenging topics while incorporating different skills and tools that you can utilize regularly. My approach to psychotherapy is trauma-informed, client-centered, with a social justice lens. The goal is to have a holistic approach to healing so that you can reduce symptoms, meet goals, strengthen supports and overcome everyday stress as well as past trauma.
I appreciate your willingness to take the time to put yourself first and look for a new therapist. In working with me, you will find a safe space where differences are honored. Together, we will explore challenging topics while incorporating different skills and tools that you can utilize regularly. My approach to psychotherapy is trauma-informed, client-centered, with a social justice lens. The goal is to have a holistic approach to healing so that you can reduce symptoms, meet goals, strengthen supports and overcome everyday stress as well as past trauma.
(312) 262-2487 View (312) 262-2487
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.