Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in Lake Waukomis, MO

Photo of Clayton Jezewak, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Clayton Jezewak
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I enjoy helping clients look inward, understand their role in the challenges they face, and identify innate strengths they can use to overcome them. We generally make peace with what we understand, so when unease seems to persist in our lives, it can often point to something internal that we have yet to acknowledge. My aim is simply to help others identify and integrate these parts of themselves into their lives.
I enjoy helping clients look inward, understand their role in the challenges they face, and identify innate strengths they can use to overcome them. We generally make peace with what we understand, so when unease seems to persist in our lives, it can often point to something internal that we have yet to acknowledge. My aim is simply to help others identify and integrate these parts of themselves into their lives.
(816) 727-4015 View (816) 727-4015
Photo of Katie Kephart, Pre-Licensed Professional, MHA, MA, PLPC, NCC
Katie Kephart
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHA, MA, PLPC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I provide mental health counseling services for individuals, couples, and families. Areas of special interest include eating disorders, complex trauma, and emotional abuse and neglect. I also enjoy working with individuals experiencing anxiety and mood disorder symptoms.
I provide mental health counseling services for individuals, couples, and families. Areas of special interest include eating disorders, complex trauma, and emotional abuse and neglect. I also enjoy working with individuals experiencing anxiety and mood disorder symptoms.
(816) 670-3428 View (816) 670-3428

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Rochelle Stroh, Counselor, T-LPC, CIT
Rochelle Stroh
Counselor, T-LPC, CIT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I help clients navigating the difficulties of intense emotions, relationship struggles, and self-perception challenges often associated with trauma and BPD.
I offer a compassionate, non-judgmental space where we can work together to mend past wounds, develop effective coping skills, and move toward increased self-compassion and acceptance. I take a trauma-informed, person-centered approach with the use of DBT and other evidence-based modalities, tailored to your unique experience and needs.
I help clients navigating the difficulties of intense emotions, relationship struggles, and self-perception challenges often associated with trauma and BPD.
I offer a compassionate, non-judgmental space where we can work together to mend past wounds, develop effective coping skills, and move toward increased self-compassion and acceptance. I take a trauma-informed, person-centered approach with the use of DBT and other evidence-based modalities, tailored to your unique experience and needs.
(816) 396-7330 View (816) 396-7330
Photo of Jessica Hintz Huff - Jessica Hintz Huff-Creative Collaborative Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor, MACP, LPC
Jessica Hintz Huff-Creative Collaborative Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MACP, LPC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I have years of experience with trauma, Borderline Personality Disorder and working with the amazing community of the LGBTQAI+ community.
Life is so fast paced with so many paths, which can cause a person to feel stuck. It is easy to feel like one is far behind or should be at a certain milestone in their life. One thing I always tell my clients is to meet themselves where they are at. A simple phrase that takes awhile to fully understand what that is and how to get there. By meeting ourselves where we are at, we can examine what we truly want and begin to trust ourselves. As the journey begins, I will be side by side my clients. I may have the book smart, but they are the expert of themselves.
I have years of experience with trauma, Borderline Personality Disorder and working with the amazing community of the LGBTQAI+ community.
Life is so fast paced with so many paths, which can cause a person to feel stuck. It is easy to feel like one is far behind or should be at a certain milestone in their life. One thing I always tell my clients is to meet themselves where they are at. A simple phrase that takes awhile to fully understand what that is and how to get there. By meeting ourselves where we are at, we can examine what we truly want and begin to trust ourselves. As the journey begins, I will be side by side my clients. I may have the book smart, but they are the expert of themselves.
(417) 962-8218 View (417) 962-8218
Photo of Alexandra Ross, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Alexandra Ross
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I have extensive experience working with trauma, cPTSD and PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Adult Autism, Anxiety, Depression, and Dissociative Identity Disorder.
As a diagnostician with post-Master's training in assessment and diagnosis, I can also provide you with a complete, accurate diagnosis if you would like one. I am happy to help with FMLA paperwork, letters for accommodations, and emotional support animal letters for housing. I also provide gender-affirming care assessments & letters for transgender adults.
I have extensive experience working with trauma, cPTSD and PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Adult Autism, Anxiety, Depression, and Dissociative Identity Disorder.
As a diagnostician with post-Master's training in assessment and diagnosis, I can also provide you with a complete, accurate diagnosis if you would like one. I am happy to help with FMLA paperwork, letters for accommodations, and emotional support animal letters for housing. I also provide gender-affirming care assessments & letters for transgender adults.
(816) 200-0582 View (816) 200-0582
Photo of Skylar Pryor-Piazza, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Skylar Pryor-Piazza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
4 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in working with individuals and family systems that have been impacted by substance use disorders, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, relationship conflicts and codependency.
It’s my belief that when we feel safe enough to let our defenses go and allow ourselves to be deeply, vulnerably seen, healing can truly begin. I am a relational therapist who believes strongly in the importance of trust and collaboration in the therapeutic relationship. I prioritize creating a safe and compassionate space for you to feel supported as you navigate through the tougher things that life throws your way. I care deeply for my clients and offer a warm, and always honest, approach in the therapy I provide. I am a trained trauma therapist, including Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy.
I specialize in working with individuals and family systems that have been impacted by substance use disorders, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, relationship conflicts and codependency.
It’s my belief that when we feel safe enough to let our defenses go and allow ourselves to be deeply, vulnerably seen, healing can truly begin. I am a relational therapist who believes strongly in the importance of trust and collaboration in the therapeutic relationship. I prioritize creating a safe and compassionate space for you to feel supported as you navigate through the tougher things that life throws your way. I care deeply for my clients and offer a warm, and always honest, approach in the therapy I provide. I am a trained trauma therapist, including Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy.
(816) 327-7961 View (816) 327-7961
Photo of Rachael Julstrom, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Rachael Julstrom
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
2 Endorsed
Blue Springs, MO 64015
I specialize in treating disorders that have Big Emotions attached to them such as Post-traumatic Stress, Borderline Personality, and BiPolar Disorders.
Book Online 24/7- 14 and older (In-person & Online) Everyone has a story they need to process. Often times when we are not heard it leads to BIG Emotions that do not know where to go. Lets find your current strengths and build from there.
I specialize in treating disorders that have Big Emotions attached to them such as Post-traumatic Stress, Borderline Personality, and BiPolar Disorders.
Book Online 24/7- 14 and older (In-person & Online) Everyone has a story they need to process. Often times when we are not heard it leads to BIG Emotions that do not know where to go. Lets find your current strengths and build from there.
(816) 323-8299 View (816) 323-8299
Photo of Mara Colbert, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Mara Colbert
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
2 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64110
We may use tools from DBT, EMDR, and other mindfulness and body-centered therapies to treat depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and borderline personality disorder.
I am an EMDR certified therapist, counselor, and yoga teacher specializing in mindfulness-based interventions for healing anxiety, depression, and trauma. I began my counseling career with a background of nearly 20 years teaching yoga, meditation, and mindfulness to groups and individuals. I integrate the tools and techniques of yoga practice and theory with more traditional cognitive-behavioral therapy, DBT, EMDR, and IFS in order to treat people holistically - physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
We may use tools from DBT, EMDR, and other mindfulness and body-centered therapies to treat depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and borderline personality disorder.
I am an EMDR certified therapist, counselor, and yoga teacher specializing in mindfulness-based interventions for healing anxiety, depression, and trauma. I began my counseling career with a background of nearly 20 years teaching yoga, meditation, and mindfulness to groups and individuals. I integrate the tools and techniques of yoga practice and theory with more traditional cognitive-behavioral therapy, DBT, EMDR, and IFS in order to treat people holistically - physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
(816) 307-2952 View (816) 307-2952
Photo of Amy Tibbitts, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSCSW
Amy Tibbitts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSCSW
Kansas City, MO 64116
DBT has shown to help those suffering from BPD through individual and group therapy sessions in which interpersonal effectiveness, distress tolerance/reality acceptance skills, emotion regulation, and mindfulness skills are taught.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy can help with heightened emotional sensitivity, quick and intense emotional reactions, and chronic problems with depression, anxiety, and anger. The program offers individual therapy, group therapy and crisis intervention calls. Our center also offers online tools for learning DBT skills and providing you the support you need to become the person you were meant to be.
DBT has shown to help those suffering from BPD through individual and group therapy sessions in which interpersonal effectiveness, distress tolerance/reality acceptance skills, emotion regulation, and mindfulness skills are taught.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy can help with heightened emotional sensitivity, quick and intense emotional reactions, and chronic problems with depression, anxiety, and anger. The program offers individual therapy, group therapy and crisis intervention calls. Our center also offers online tools for learning DBT skills and providing you the support you need to become the person you were meant to be.
(816) 873-8469 View (816) 873-8469
Photo of Erica N Brandli-Montgomery, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Erica N Brandli-Montgomery
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64114
Waitlist for new clients
If you have been diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder or suspect you may have this diagnosis, please reach out.
"Pain is inevitable. Suffering is optional." - The Dalai Lama. Most of us have heard this, however letting go of suffering doesn't come naturally. After all, if it were that easy, we would all be doing it already. I am here as a guide and a coach to help you create a life worth living by increasing fulfillment and decreasing unnecessary suffering.
If you have been diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder or suspect you may have this diagnosis, please reach out.
"Pain is inevitable. Suffering is optional." - The Dalai Lama. Most of us have heard this, however letting go of suffering doesn't come naturally. After all, if it were that easy, we would all be doing it already. I am here as a guide and a coach to help you create a life worth living by increasing fulfillment and decreasing unnecessary suffering.
(816) 253-8729 View (816) 253-8729
Photo of Anna Saviano, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Anna Saviano
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
5 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64110
I specialize in work with developmental as well as single-incident trauma, particularly sexual abuse and borderline personality disorder.
Being in the world can be hard *and* I believe the universe is abundant. My work focuses on supporting individuals on their journey of healing, growth and actualization. I provide a safe and comfortable space to explore and process whatever past or current concerns are disconnecting you from your life path. My goal is to help young adults and adults resolve trauma and fully engage in the life you choose.
I specialize in work with developmental as well as single-incident trauma, particularly sexual abuse and borderline personality disorder.
Being in the world can be hard *and* I believe the universe is abundant. My work focuses on supporting individuals on their journey of healing, growth and actualization. I provide a safe and comfortable space to explore and process whatever past or current concerns are disconnecting you from your life path. My goal is to help young adults and adults resolve trauma and fully engage in the life you choose.
(816) 463-8672 View (816) 463-8672
Photo of Alex Ratzlaff, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Alex Ratzlaff
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64110
I work with clients who may be struggling with anxiety, trauma and symptoms of BPD.
As a therapist, my goal is to help guide clients through the uncomfortable and often painful process of making life changes and better understanding themselves. Many of my clients struggle with trauma and unhealthy coping patterns that has kept them stuck in a cycle. I am here to help clients navigate through difficult feelings, relationships, and/or experiences and develop ways to live a healthier, happier lifestyle. Also, as an athlete and a coach, I have unique insight working with athletes of all ages and levels. Unlocking the mental side of the sport and making it work for you can help you achieve your next level.
I work with clients who may be struggling with anxiety, trauma and symptoms of BPD.
As a therapist, my goal is to help guide clients through the uncomfortable and often painful process of making life changes and better understanding themselves. Many of my clients struggle with trauma and unhealthy coping patterns that has kept them stuck in a cycle. I am here to help clients navigate through difficult feelings, relationships, and/or experiences and develop ways to live a healthier, happier lifestyle. Also, as an athlete and a coach, I have unique insight working with athletes of all ages and levels. Unlocking the mental side of the sport and making it work for you can help you achieve your next level.
(816) 297-0887 View (816) 297-0887
Photo of Melissa McCauley-Burow, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa McCauley-Burow
Licensed Professional Counselor
Online Only
I also work with ADHD and spent many years working with people who were diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder.
Hello and welcome! I am so glad you took the difficult step of seeking therapy, and I would be honored to work with you. I have been in the mental health field for 18 years. I started as a case manager at a community mental health center and then became certified as a Drug and Alcohol Counselor. Two years later, I completed my master's degree in community counseling and became licensed as a Professional Counselor. I am certified by the National Board of Certified Counselors, and I am recognized as an Internationally Certified Reciprocal Alcohol and Drug Counselor.
I also work with ADHD and spent many years working with people who were diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder.
Hello and welcome! I am so glad you took the difficult step of seeking therapy, and I would be honored to work with you. I have been in the mental health field for 18 years. I started as a case manager at a community mental health center and then became certified as a Drug and Alcohol Counselor. Two years later, I completed my master's degree in community counseling and became licensed as a Professional Counselor. I am certified by the National Board of Certified Counselors, and I am recognized as an Internationally Certified Reciprocal Alcohol and Drug Counselor.
(660) 493-3403 View (660) 493-3403
Photo of Amber Lynne Rentfro, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Amber Lynne Rentfro
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Blue Springs, MO 64015
I have done extensive work with people whom have BPD and love that work deeply.
I did not come into this work on accident. I believe that therapists can only take people as far as they have journeyed themselves. I am here because I have had my own struggles, sadness, hurt, trauma and growth and it has led me to become passionate about the ability we have to heal. I believe that being truly seen, truly understood, and having someone to help guide you through the challenges of life is profoundly powerful to our happiness, wholeness and experience of the world and each other.
I have done extensive work with people whom have BPD and love that work deeply.
I did not come into this work on accident. I believe that therapists can only take people as far as they have journeyed themselves. I am here because I have had my own struggles, sadness, hurt, trauma and growth and it has led me to become passionate about the ability we have to heal. I believe that being truly seen, truly understood, and having someone to help guide you through the challenges of life is profoundly powerful to our happiness, wholeness and experience of the world and each other.
(816) 793-8496 View (816) 793-8496
Photo of Hannah K Peterson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW
Hannah K Peterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW
Kansas City, MO 64118
Waitlist for new clients
I have a special love and expertise in those who struggle with borderline personality disorder.
I am a therapist with a social work heart. Helping others learn to love and understand themselves is my favorite part of the job. I diagnose and treat through different types of therapy such as psychotherapy, trauma informed care, DBT, CBT, Grief and Loss, Couples Therapy and numerous strengths perspective approaches. I work with adult patient's who struggle with depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, personality disorders, bipolar disorders and trauma based disorders.
I have a special love and expertise in those who struggle with borderline personality disorder.
I am a therapist with a social work heart. Helping others learn to love and understand themselves is my favorite part of the job. I diagnose and treat through different types of therapy such as psychotherapy, trauma informed care, DBT, CBT, Grief and Loss, Couples Therapy and numerous strengths perspective approaches. I work with adult patient's who struggle with depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, personality disorders, bipolar disorders and trauma based disorders.
(816) 327-1756 View (816) 327-1756
Photo of Christin Trott - Être Counseling Kc, Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, PLPC
Christin Trott - Être Counseling Kc
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, PLPC
3 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64108
I specialize in concerns involving heightened emotions (e.g. anxiety, depression, anger, complex trauma, high sensitivity and borderline personality disorder).
Sometimes life feels heavy. Problems in your relationships, trouble at work, the isolation of this day and age. Maybe you had a difficult childhood that you can't seem to break away from. It can all feel like too much sometimes, bringing up intense feelings of anxiety, anger, depression, loneliness, and grief. If any of this sounds familiar, I can definitely help. I work with adults and couples struggling with intense emotions. My clients often want to understand how their past experiences and traumas have impacted their current difficulties. They also want to learn how to create a more peaceful and enthusiastic life for themselves.
I specialize in concerns involving heightened emotions (e.g. anxiety, depression, anger, complex trauma, high sensitivity and borderline personality disorder).
Sometimes life feels heavy. Problems in your relationships, trouble at work, the isolation of this day and age. Maybe you had a difficult childhood that you can't seem to break away from. It can all feel like too much sometimes, bringing up intense feelings of anxiety, anger, depression, loneliness, and grief. If any of this sounds familiar, I can definitely help. I work with adults and couples struggling with intense emotions. My clients often want to understand how their past experiences and traumas have impacted their current difficulties. They also want to learn how to create a more peaceful and enthusiastic life for themselves.
(816) 253-8476 View (816) 253-8476
Photo of Jennifer Campbell, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Campbell
Licensed Professional Counselor
Online Only
I specialize in helping clients navigate a variety of challenges, including addiction, ADHD, anger management, anxiety, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, depression, developmental disabilities, family relationships, gender identity, grief, intimate relationships, LGBTQIA+ support, multicultural issues, psychosis, schizophrenia, stress, and trauma.
Throughout my career, I've had the privilege of working with both youths and adults in individual and group therapy settings. My professional journey has taken me to youth shelter programs, LGBT organizations, substance abuse centers, drug court programs, community support agencies, psychiatric hospitals, and health insurance agencies.
I specialize in helping clients navigate a variety of challenges, including addiction, ADHD, anger management, anxiety, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, depression, developmental disabilities, family relationships, gender identity, grief, intimate relationships, LGBTQIA+ support, multicultural issues, psychosis, schizophrenia, stress, and trauma.
Throughout my career, I've had the privilege of working with both youths and adults in individual and group therapy settings. My professional journey has taken me to youth shelter programs, LGBT organizations, substance abuse centers, drug court programs, community support agencies, psychiatric hospitals, and health insurance agencies.
(314) 668-9190 View (314) 668-9190
Photo of Lindsey Dillion, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lindsey Dillion
Licensed Professional Counselor
Online Only
I specialize in working with a wide range of issues including addiction, anger management, antisocial behavior, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, adolescent and teen mental/behavioral health, depression, dissociative disorders, grief/bereavement, life transitions, military/veteran support, multicultural/diversity issues,
Hello, I'm Lindsey. Life is hard. Have you ever felt that the demands of the day are too heavy? I understand that feeling personally. You have to keep up. You have to keep going, but the dread... the fake smile, the held-back tears. It feels like an eternity of wondering when you'll feel the light again. "It's hopeless. I am not meant to have a good life. I don't deserve it anyway." You need to feel better but do not know how. I have walked this journey. I have walked this path, and through my own healing, I believe no one should suffer alone. I am here to give an empathetic ear and to walk beside you on your journey. I am the owne
I specialize in working with a wide range of issues including addiction, anger management, antisocial behavior, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, adolescent and teen mental/behavioral health, depression, dissociative disorders, grief/bereavement, life transitions, military/veteran support, multicultural/diversity issues,
Hello, I'm Lindsey. Life is hard. Have you ever felt that the demands of the day are too heavy? I understand that feeling personally. You have to keep up. You have to keep going, but the dread... the fake smile, the held-back tears. It feels like an eternity of wondering when you'll feel the light again. "It's hopeless. I am not meant to have a good life. I don't deserve it anyway." You need to feel better but do not know how. I have walked this journey. I have walked this path, and through my own healing, I believe no one should suffer alone. I am here to give an empathetic ear and to walk beside you on your journey. I am the owne
(816) 662-7668 View (816) 662-7668
Photo of Christina Spies, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina Spies
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Online Only
I specialize in a range of areas including anger management, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, depression, family relationships, life transitions, military and veteran support, PTSD, sleep disorders, stress, suicidal ideation and self-harming behaviors, and trauma.
Hello and welcome! I'm Christina, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience in social work. While I primarily speak English, I also understand Patois, which can be helpful in connecting with a broader range of clients. My journey in mental health has led me to specialize in trauma treatment and substance use, areas where I feel deeply committed to making a difference. I also hold an additional license as a Clinical Addictions Specialist, which allows me to provide comprehensive care for those struggling with addiction.
I specialize in a range of areas including anger management, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, depression, family relationships, life transitions, military and veteran support, PTSD, sleep disorders, stress, suicidal ideation and self-harming behaviors, and trauma.
Hello and welcome! I'm Christina, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience in social work. While I primarily speak English, I also understand Patois, which can be helpful in connecting with a broader range of clients. My journey in mental health has led me to specialize in trauma treatment and substance use, areas where I feel deeply committed to making a difference. I also hold an additional license as a Clinical Addictions Specialist, which allows me to provide comprehensive care for those struggling with addiction.
(816) 540-1636 View (816) 540-1636
Photo of Shaelynn Tice, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shaelynn Tice
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Online Only
Additionally, I offer support for those dealing with Borderline Personality Disorder, children's and adolescent
I believe in the importance of cultural humility and strive to be anti-racist in both my professional and personal life. My goal is to provide a safe and supportive environment where you can explore and heal. This is your healing path, and my role is to be here as a guide, helping you identify the tools you need to navigate your wellness journey.
Additionally, I offer support for those dealing with Borderline Personality Disorder, children's and adolescent
I believe in the importance of cultural humility and strive to be anti-racist in both my professional and personal life. My goal is to provide a safe and supportive environment where you can explore and heal. This is your healing path, and my role is to be here as a guide, helping you identify the tools you need to navigate your wellness journey.
(816) 684-6567 View (816) 684-6567
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.