Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in River Forest, IL

Photo of Dr. Heidi D Schwartz, PsyD, LCPC
Dr. Heidi D Schwartz
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PsyD, LCPC
Verified Verified
River Forest, IL 60305
I have been practicing psychotherapy for 32 years. My clinical work centers around helping people develop satisfying relationships and lifestyles. We will work collaboratively to help you heal old wounds and make insightful meaning of your patterns of self-defeating thoughts and behaviors as they impact your current functioning and relationships. I will help you develop inner strength and creativity to remedy depression, anxiety, and unhappiness. Ultimately, you will ably make intentional choices about managing your life, goals, work, and relationships.
I have been practicing psychotherapy for 32 years. My clinical work centers around helping people develop satisfying relationships and lifestyles. We will work collaboratively to help you heal old wounds and make insightful meaning of your patterns of self-defeating thoughts and behaviors as they impact your current functioning and relationships. I will help you develop inner strength and creativity to remedy depression, anxiety, and unhappiness. Ultimately, you will ably make intentional choices about managing your life, goals, work, and relationships.
(708) 934-4279 View (708) 934-4279
Photo of Megan Seliga, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Seliga
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
River Forest, IL 60305  (Online Only)
Each stage of life brings different challenges that test our ability to adapt, but our need for support to bolster ourselves during these times remains the same. Whether you are struggling to establish a new normal in the face of shifting life circumstances, coping with a long-standing physical or mental illness, feeling the strain of caring for a loved one with an illness or a disability, or simply feeling blocked on your path to fulfillment, you deserve a space dedicated to your needs. I strive to create a space where anyone can feel welcome, and I believe that therapy is a pursuit from which everyone could derive a benefit.
Each stage of life brings different challenges that test our ability to adapt, but our need for support to bolster ourselves during these times remains the same. Whether you are struggling to establish a new normal in the face of shifting life circumstances, coping with a long-standing physical or mental illness, feeling the strain of caring for a loved one with an illness or a disability, or simply feeling blocked on your path to fulfillment, you deserve a space dedicated to your needs. I strive to create a space where anyone can feel welcome, and I believe that therapy is a pursuit from which everyone could derive a benefit.
(708) 578-7316 View (708) 578-7316
Photo of Dennis Keppeler, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dennis Keppeler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
River Forest, IL 60305  (Online Only)
I offer goal-oriented, collaborative psychotherapy to individuals who are experiencing distress or unhappiness with parts of their lives. Throughout therapy sessions that are interactive, I will share my thoughts and feelings about the challenges that you face along with strategies for creating change.
I offer goal-oriented, collaborative psychotherapy to individuals who are experiencing distress or unhappiness with parts of their lives. Throughout therapy sessions that are interactive, I will share my thoughts and feelings about the challenges that you face along with strategies for creating change.
(708) 258-5139 View (708) 258-5139
Photo of Jessica Punzo, PsyD, Psychologist
Jessica Punzo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
River Forest, IL 60305
Waitlist for new clients
The majority of my training and work experience has specifically focused on the assessment and treatment of psychological trauma. I believe my job is to walk alongside my clients as they unpack their traumatic experiences, while providing continued safety and validation, all at their own pace. I have extensive experience in evidence based treatments for PTSD and have been successful in treating a wide variety of individuals. I have also completed specialized training in maternal mental health. I treat women dealing with mental health issues that come up during and after pregnancy, such as anxiety, depression, and OCD. I also help women navigate pregnancy loss, infertility, and traumatic births. As a mother myself, I am passionate about working with other mothers struggling with mental health issues related to pregnancy or the postpartum period.
The majority of my training and work experience has specifically focused on the assessment and treatment of psychological trauma. I believe my job is to walk alongside my clients as they unpack their traumatic experiences, while providing continued safety and validation, all at their own pace. I have extensive experience in evidence based treatments for PTSD and have been successful in treating a wide variety of individuals. I have also completed specialized training in maternal mental health. I treat women dealing with mental health issues that come up during and after pregnancy, such as anxiety, depression, and OCD. I also help women navigate pregnancy loss, infertility, and traumatic births. As a mother myself, I am passionate about working with other mothers struggling with mental health issues related to pregnancy or the postpartum period.
(708) 613-8682 View (708) 613-8682
Photo of Linda Small, PhD, Psychologist
Linda Small
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
River Forest, IL 60305
I work best with clients who are troubled by anxiety, depression, relationship issues, losses or trauma, and life transition issues. I provide individual and family therapy for children, adolescents, and adults. I use a variety of treatment techniques including cognitive, psychodynamic, and client-centered therapies as well as behavior management strategies. My research on coping with traumatic life events has prepared me well to work with clients who have experienced trauma and crisis. A life crisis can be debilitating at first, but can lead to a search for meaning and dramatic new growth. It is exciting for me to accompany clients in this process!
I work best with clients who are troubled by anxiety, depression, relationship issues, losses or trauma, and life transition issues. I provide individual and family therapy for children, adolescents, and adults. I use a variety of treatment techniques including cognitive, psychodynamic, and client-centered therapies as well as behavior management strategies. My research on coping with traumatic life events has prepared me well to work with clients who have experienced trauma and crisis. A life crisis can be debilitating at first, but can lead to a search for meaning and dramatic new growth. It is exciting for me to accompany clients in this process!
(630) 313-6319 View (630) 313-6319
Photo of Kirsten Tesnar Svejda, PsyD, Psychologist
Kirsten Tesnar Svejda
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
River Forest, IL 60305
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist offering therapy services to adolescents and adults in Oak Park, IL. I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders, trauma, depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. In my treatment of complex issues, I provide both individual and family therapy and value collaborating with other healthcare providers for multidisciplinary care. I work from a mindfulness-based and trauma-informed lens, utilizing body-based, symptom-focused interventions and exploring interpersonal relationships as methods to encourage change.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist offering therapy services to adolescents and adults in Oak Park, IL. I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders, trauma, depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. In my treatment of complex issues, I provide both individual and family therapy and value collaborating with other healthcare providers for multidisciplinary care. I work from a mindfulness-based and trauma-informed lens, utilizing body-based, symptom-focused interventions and exploring interpersonal relationships as methods to encourage change.
(708) 885-9939 View (708) 885-9939
Photo of Margaret McGonegal, MA, LCPC
Margaret McGonegal
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
River Forest, IL 60305
Life’s challenges happen suddenly. Without warning it feels like you can’t navigate through with confidence and calm. Instead, you are plagued with worry, hesitation, anxiety, and depression. At times, life feels like a ticking time bomb, and you are desperately searching for an effective means to diffuse it. But your coping skills aren’t working well enough, or maybe they weren’t that healthy in the first place. How are you supposed to get comfortable with the challenges you are experiencing, let alone feel you are responding in a healthy way, when everything around you – maybe even your person – can be so unpredictable?
Life’s challenges happen suddenly. Without warning it feels like you can’t navigate through with confidence and calm. Instead, you are plagued with worry, hesitation, anxiety, and depression. At times, life feels like a ticking time bomb, and you are desperately searching for an effective means to diffuse it. But your coping skills aren’t working well enough, or maybe they weren’t that healthy in the first place. How are you supposed to get comfortable with the challenges you are experiencing, let alone feel you are responding in a healthy way, when everything around you – maybe even your person – can be so unpredictable?
(312) 262-5173 View (312) 262-5173

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Rosina Salerno, MA, LPC, LCPC
Rosina Salerno
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60304  (Online Only)
I have specialized training in treating individuals who have experienced depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, grief, bi-polar disorder, life transitions, relationship issues, personality disorders (borderline personality disorder), and low self-esteem.
Are you feeling lost, anxious, depressed? Looking to process trauma or adverse childhood experiences? When life challenges are overwhelming, maintaining a productive, and happy life can be difficult. You deserve to feel your best. You deserve to be content, have peace, and most importantly, have self-love. My job is to help you learn and develop long-lasting, effective skills for handling overwhelming emotions, coping with distress or trauma, communicating more assertively, and feeling strong and capable in your everyday life.
I have specialized training in treating individuals who have experienced depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, grief, bi-polar disorder, life transitions, relationship issues, personality disorders (borderline personality disorder), and low self-esteem.
Are you feeling lost, anxious, depressed? Looking to process trauma or adverse childhood experiences? When life challenges are overwhelming, maintaining a productive, and happy life can be difficult. You deserve to feel your best. You deserve to be content, have peace, and most importantly, have self-love. My job is to help you learn and develop long-lasting, effective skills for handling overwhelming emotions, coping with distress or trauma, communicating more assertively, and feeling strong and capable in your everyday life.
(708) 847-9259 x1 View (708) 847-9259 x1
Photo of Rose Mary Spizzirri, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rose Mary Spizzirri
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
Everyone goes through times of struggle and needs someone to listen, reflect and help them move forward. We specialize in working with persons who have experienced trauma, abuse or neglect. Trauma can lead to many life issues & symptoms that we can help you manage & alleviate. Using trauma-informed attachment focused psychotherapy we provide parents with therapeutic skills to help their children heal. I have worked with families, kids, & adults for 25 of years who have various mental illnesses and emotional challenges. Everyone deserves happiness & we can help you through the healing process to restore your mind, body & spirit.
Everyone goes through times of struggle and needs someone to listen, reflect and help them move forward. We specialize in working with persons who have experienced trauma, abuse or neglect. Trauma can lead to many life issues & symptoms that we can help you manage & alleviate. Using trauma-informed attachment focused psychotherapy we provide parents with therapeutic skills to help their children heal. I have worked with families, kids, & adults for 25 of years who have various mental illnesses and emotional challenges. Everyone deserves happiness & we can help you through the healing process to restore your mind, body & spirit.
(708) 697-8009 View (708) 697-8009
Photo of Janet Levitt, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Janet Levitt
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
Welcome to my profile. If you're seeking a therapist, you're taking an important step toward creating a shift into resilience, growth, and well-being. I have over 15 years of experience supporting clients using a collaborative, DBT (skills-based) approach. I partner with clients to create a safe space where they can connect more deeply with themselves, their emotions, their needs, and their potentials in order to become their most fully-realized selves.
Welcome to my profile. If you're seeking a therapist, you're taking an important step toward creating a shift into resilience, growth, and well-being. I have over 15 years of experience supporting clients using a collaborative, DBT (skills-based) approach. I partner with clients to create a safe space where they can connect more deeply with themselves, their emotions, their needs, and their potentials in order to become their most fully-realized selves.
(708) 406-2723 View (708) 406-2723
Photo of Leo Lease, LCPC, MA , ATR-P
Leo Lease
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, MA , ATR-P
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301  (Online Only)
In moments of stress or discord, everyone copes the best they have available to them. As a trauma informed and DBT focused therapist, I believe in the power shame reduction can have in peoples lives, alongside building concrete skills, and unlearning narratives that no longer serve us. I often see clients who may feel at odds with themselves and want to adapt or grow their ability to handle distress. Although change can be uncomfortable, I work alongside clients to rediscover personal strengths and help find a "core" or "root" that may have felt lost or distant. I commend you for stepping into vulnerability.
In moments of stress or discord, everyone copes the best they have available to them. As a trauma informed and DBT focused therapist, I believe in the power shame reduction can have in peoples lives, alongside building concrete skills, and unlearning narratives that no longer serve us. I often see clients who may feel at odds with themselves and want to adapt or grow their ability to handle distress. Although change can be uncomfortable, I work alongside clients to rediscover personal strengths and help find a "core" or "root" that may have felt lost or distant. I commend you for stepping into vulnerability.
(708) 722-8843 View (708) 722-8843
Photo of undefined - Mary Vanderplow LLC, PsyD, Psychologist
Mary Vanderplow LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301  (Online Only)
I specialize in the assessment and treatment of eating disorders, depression, and anxiety. My therapy is solution focused and looks to provide my clients with the tools to effectively manage the stresses of everyday life. My goal is to work closely with my clients to identify maladaptive thoughts and behaviors and help them develop healthy coping skills. Therapy is a team effort and together my clients have the support needed to make the changes that will enhance their lives.
I specialize in the assessment and treatment of eating disorders, depression, and anxiety. My therapy is solution focused and looks to provide my clients with the tools to effectively manage the stresses of everyday life. My goal is to work closely with my clients to identify maladaptive thoughts and behaviors and help them develop healthy coping skills. Therapy is a team effort and together my clients have the support needed to make the changes that will enhance their lives.
(312) 860-2420 View (312) 860-2420
Photo of undefined - Begin Within Therapy Services, Inc, LCPC, MA, CCTP, Counselor
Begin Within Therapy Services, Inc
Counselor, LCPC, MA, CCTP
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60303
Begin Within Therapy was established in 2015. We believe within every person lies a meaningful story. We are a group of therapists who are all attachment-focused and trauma-informed and ready to understand your story. We offer a variety of therapy options to help you meet your goals, that include options outside of traditional talk therapy, as well as more traditional therapy modalities. Please give us a call to speak with our director and determine which therapist would be the best fit for you.
Begin Within Therapy was established in 2015. We believe within every person lies a meaningful story. We are a group of therapists who are all attachment-focused and trauma-informed and ready to understand your story. We offer a variety of therapy options to help you meet your goals, that include options outside of traditional talk therapy, as well as more traditional therapy modalities. Please give us a call to speak with our director and determine which therapist would be the best fit for you.
(708) 340-6719 View (708) 340-6719
Photo of Eve Haydt, LPC, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Eve Haydt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
Eve Haydt (she/they) is a psychotherapist with experience working with clients across the lifespan and in a variety of clinical settings. She enjoys working with individuals with anxiety, trauma, depression, eating disorders, and body image concerns. Eve utilizes an integrative and collaborative approach to treatment with a focus on the client’s unique values and goals. She often combines CBT, DBT, and relational approaches. Eve also enjoys integrating systemic and cultural perspectives in her work with clients.
Eve Haydt (she/they) is a psychotherapist with experience working with clients across the lifespan and in a variety of clinical settings. She enjoys working with individuals with anxiety, trauma, depression, eating disorders, and body image concerns. Eve utilizes an integrative and collaborative approach to treatment with a focus on the client’s unique values and goals. She often combines CBT, DBT, and relational approaches. Eve also enjoys integrating systemic and cultural perspectives in her work with clients.
(312) 847-2875 View (312) 847-2875
Photo of Susan A Gabel, MA, LCPC, CCTP-II, CATP
Susan A Gabel
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, CCTP-II, CATP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301  (Online Only)
Life can throw a lot of stressors our way, and for many, this can lead to anxiety, shutdown, and/or feelings of overwhelm. Early childhood experiences have a significant impact on how we respond to stress. I specialize in treating complex or attachment trauma and have training in treatment modalities which support the brain’s and body’s natural capacity to heal. I work with teens, adults, and specifically therapists, to increase awareness of underlying patterns and assist in the healing of unprocessed events. My role is to provide support as we work together towards increasing your overall emotional capacity and regulation.
Life can throw a lot of stressors our way, and for many, this can lead to anxiety, shutdown, and/or feelings of overwhelm. Early childhood experiences have a significant impact on how we respond to stress. I specialize in treating complex or attachment trauma and have training in treatment modalities which support the brain’s and body’s natural capacity to heal. I work with teens, adults, and specifically therapists, to increase awareness of underlying patterns and assist in the healing of unprocessed events. My role is to provide support as we work together towards increasing your overall emotional capacity and regulation.
(331) 267-6389 View (331) 267-6389
Photo of Jill Thompson, LCPC, MS, MEd, Counselor
Jill Thompson
Counselor, LCPC, MS, MEd
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60302
I specialize in helping women and other folx navigate the many transitions and challenges we face throughout our lives. Issues surrounding self-esteem and self-worth, anxiety and depression, relationships and friendships, marriage and divorce, fertility and motherhood, postnatal mood disorders, work-life balance, stress management, and grief and loss can all be addressed in a safe, judgement free space, focused on healing and growth. I love helping individuals realize their potential and purpose. I bring a sense of humor to this work as well as the empathy and compassion we all require to thrive.
I specialize in helping women and other folx navigate the many transitions and challenges we face throughout our lives. Issues surrounding self-esteem and self-worth, anxiety and depression, relationships and friendships, marriage and divorce, fertility and motherhood, postnatal mood disorders, work-life balance, stress management, and grief and loss can all be addressed in a safe, judgement free space, focused on healing and growth. I love helping individuals realize their potential and purpose. I bring a sense of humor to this work as well as the empathy and compassion we all require to thrive.
(708) 315-7342 View (708) 315-7342
Photo of Carroll A Cradock, PhD, Psychologist
Carroll A Cradock
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60302
People seek out a counselor who can guide them--or their child--past their struggles to a better life. They want to get better sooner and stay better longer. For over 20 years, I have had the privilege of helping hundreds of adults, children and adolescents move past problems and achieve their goals --and to make those improvements stick. Some clients face coping with frustration, depression, anxiety, or relationship and family problems. For others, it's dealing with transitions such as divorce, loss and grief, school or relationship challenges, medical problems or job loss. And clients deserve great service.
People seek out a counselor who can guide them--or their child--past their struggles to a better life. They want to get better sooner and stay better longer. For over 20 years, I have had the privilege of helping hundreds of adults, children and adolescents move past problems and achieve their goals --and to make those improvements stick. Some clients face coping with frustration, depression, anxiety, or relationship and family problems. For others, it's dealing with transitions such as divorce, loss and grief, school or relationship challenges, medical problems or job loss. And clients deserve great service.
(312) 470-6923 View (312) 470-6923
Photo of Patrycja Nykiel, PsyD, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Patrycja Nykiel
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60634
I've acquired an extensive knowledge of mental illnesses and symptom management through the usage of different therapeutic modalities obtained by working with patients from different cultures and backgrounds. My experience comes from treating patients with mental, emotional problems, and with different types of addictions in both clinical and residential settings. I will provide a safe, compassionate, and professional environment for each patient that will best help him or her on the road to healing and recovery.
I've acquired an extensive knowledge of mental illnesses and symptom management through the usage of different therapeutic modalities obtained by working with patients from different cultures and backgrounds. My experience comes from treating patients with mental, emotional problems, and with different types of addictions in both clinical and residential settings. I will provide a safe, compassionate, and professional environment for each patient that will best help him or her on the road to healing and recovery.
(773) 906-7014 View (773) 906-7014
Photo of Tothyanna R. White, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Tothyanna R. White
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60304
Therapy can be a difficult step for individuals to take in their lives. People may seek therapy in order to find answers to issues they have had for many years. Therapy is also much more than that. Therapy is a collaboration between the client and the therapist, in order to gain insight and have the necessary tools to continue to succeed in their everyday lives. My goal is to create an environment in which you feel comfortable working on yourself. Being as authentic as I can be during sessions. Providing a supportive and safe space where you can express yourself freely and discuss your issues without fear of judgment.
Therapy can be a difficult step for individuals to take in their lives. People may seek therapy in order to find answers to issues they have had for many years. Therapy is also much more than that. Therapy is a collaboration between the client and the therapist, in order to gain insight and have the necessary tools to continue to succeed in their everyday lives. My goal is to create an environment in which you feel comfortable working on yourself. Being as authentic as I can be during sessions. Providing a supportive and safe space where you can express yourself freely and discuss your issues without fear of judgment.
(847) 558-7407 View (847) 558-7407
Photo of Dr. Calvin Young, PhD, LCPC, Counselor
Dr. Calvin Young
Counselor, PhD, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maywood, IL 60153  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Dr. Calvin Young, a credentialed provider of telehealth care services. As a provider of telemental health as a Psychotherapist, forensic assessment and Substance Abuse Counseling and Addictions treatment professional, I am also US military veteran. For over two decades I have provided Online Therapy and in-person care, using an integrative approach that combines Psychodynamic, Behavior Therapy, Gestalt, Community Psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Family Systems approaches, combined with Multicultural Psychotherapy, a Person-centered focus.
Hello! My name is Dr. Calvin Young, a credentialed provider of telehealth care services. As a provider of telemental health as a Psychotherapist, forensic assessment and Substance Abuse Counseling and Addictions treatment professional, I am also US military veteran. For over two decades I have provided Online Therapy and in-person care, using an integrative approach that combines Psychodynamic, Behavior Therapy, Gestalt, Community Psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Family Systems approaches, combined with Multicultural Psychotherapy, a Person-centered focus.
(773) 687-5071 View (773) 687-5071

See more therapy options for River Forest

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.