Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in Northvale, NJ

Photo of Erica Tait, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Northvale, NJ
Erica Tait
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Northvale, NJ 07647
A profound near-death experience sparked my search for meaning and purpose in life, and has inspired me to guide others on their own journey toward healing and transformation. I specialize in working with the highly-sensitive person–those who feel everything strongly, but may be unsure of how to manage those emotions. Anxiety, self-doubt, perfectionism, and relationship issues are just some of what we can experience when we are out of alignment with our True Self. We may turn to all sorts of distractions, unhealthy relationships or addictions, to cope with what is fundamentally a feeling of discomfort within our own skin.
A profound near-death experience sparked my search for meaning and purpose in life, and has inspired me to guide others on their own journey toward healing and transformation. I specialize in working with the highly-sensitive person–those who feel everything strongly, but may be unsure of how to manage those emotions. Anxiety, self-doubt, perfectionism, and relationship issues are just some of what we can experience when we are out of alignment with our True Self. We may turn to all sorts of distractions, unhealthy relationships or addictions, to cope with what is fundamentally a feeling of discomfort within our own skin.
(201) 485-5089 x1 View (201) 485-5089 x1
Photo of Lia Bellizzi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Northvale, NJ
Lia Bellizzi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Northvale, NJ 07647
As your therapist, I will provide a warm, inviting, and empathic space where you can explore every aspect of yourself. I will encourage you to come from a place of curiosity rather than judgment when reflecting on your experiences. I have experience supporting adults and teens coping with anxiety, depression, trauma, interpersonal conflict, gender identity exploration or navigating the complexities of life.
As your therapist, I will provide a warm, inviting, and empathic space where you can explore every aspect of yourself. I will encourage you to come from a place of curiosity rather than judgment when reflecting on your experiences. I have experience supporting adults and teens coping with anxiety, depression, trauma, interpersonal conflict, gender identity exploration or navigating the complexities of life.
(201) 347-7616 View (201) 347-7616
Photo of Brian Greco, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Northvale, NJ
Brian Greco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Northvale, NJ 07647
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Having spent 5 years working inpatient at Rockland Children's Psychiatric Center I developed my skills for providing quality therapy services for full range of mental health concerns. My passions are working with children, adolescents, and young adults to help them ultimately help themselves through this often challenging phase of development. I am currently practicing as a private practitioner in Old Tappan, New Jersey.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Having spent 5 years working inpatient at Rockland Children's Psychiatric Center I developed my skills for providing quality therapy services for full range of mental health concerns. My passions are working with children, adolescents, and young adults to help them ultimately help themselves through this often challenging phase of development. I am currently practicing as a private practitioner in Old Tappan, New Jersey.
(973) 668-4590 View (973) 668-4590
Photo of Emotional Archeology in Northvale, NJ
Emotional Archeology
LMHC, CCTP-2
Verified Verified
Northvale, NJ 07647
The way in which people navigate the world is through experience. Many of us have had difficult experiences at different times in our lives which have contributed to the way in which we view the world and more importantly, ourselves. As such, most people carry negative views or beliefs about themselves that are simply not true. Until those beliefs are challenged in an effort to change them, we more often than not, experience emotional or psychological discomfort in many forms. Therapy is a space that serves to remind each individual of their ability to positively impact their lives by cultivating a more accepting view of themselves.
The way in which people navigate the world is through experience. Many of us have had difficult experiences at different times in our lives which have contributed to the way in which we view the world and more importantly, ourselves. As such, most people carry negative views or beliefs about themselves that are simply not true. Until those beliefs are challenged in an effort to change them, we more often than not, experience emotional or psychological discomfort in many forms. Therapy is a space that serves to remind each individual of their ability to positively impact their lives by cultivating a more accepting view of themselves.
(845) 251-3124 View (845) 251-3124

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Carolyn Goldman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Northvale, NJ
Carolyn Goldman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ho Ho Kus, NJ 07423  (Online Only)
Do you feel as if your emotions rule your life? That other therapy hasn't been helpful or created the change you needed? The Behavioral Therapy Collective was created in order to offer compassionate, thoughtful, ethical and effective care. We work with high school aged adolescent, adults and families People who struggle with anxiety, suicidal thoughts, self-harm behavior, depression, symptoms of Borderline Personality Disorder benefit from DBT. All members of our team have been intensively trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, which is the evidence based treatment used to treat complex emotions
Do you feel as if your emotions rule your life? That other therapy hasn't been helpful or created the change you needed? The Behavioral Therapy Collective was created in order to offer compassionate, thoughtful, ethical and effective care. We work with high school aged adolescent, adults and families People who struggle with anxiety, suicidal thoughts, self-harm behavior, depression, symptoms of Borderline Personality Disorder benefit from DBT. All members of our team have been intensively trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, which is the evidence based treatment used to treat complex emotions
(551) 264-1014 x2 View (551) 264-1014 x2
Photo of Clinical Consultation Services, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Northvale, NJ
Clinical Consultation Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PsyA
Verified Verified
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
I am also trained in Transference Focused Psychotherapy to treat people with Borderline and Narcissistic Personality Disorders.
I work with individuals (14 or older) who are reflective, curious about themselves, and desire change. The therapeutic relationship is the fundamental factor in effective therapy and provides you with a safe, comfortable place to discuss issues and patterns in your life that are interfering with reaching your potential. My training has prepared me to help you work through problems and help you understand your emotional life, patterns and experiences from your formative years that impact on your life now; A better understanding of your emotional life will help you make meaningful changes toward finding happiness.
I am also trained in Transference Focused Psychotherapy to treat people with Borderline and Narcissistic Personality Disorders.
I work with individuals (14 or older) who are reflective, curious about themselves, and desire change. The therapeutic relationship is the fundamental factor in effective therapy and provides you with a safe, comfortable place to discuss issues and patterns in your life that are interfering with reaching your potential. My training has prepared me to help you work through problems and help you understand your emotional life, patterns and experiences from your formative years that impact on your life now; A better understanding of your emotional life will help you make meaningful changes toward finding happiness.
(201) 654-3203 View (201) 654-3203
Photo of Dr. Benjamin Johnson, Psychologist in Northvale, NJ
Dr. Benjamin Johnson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Hackensack, NJ 07601  (Online Only)
I offer evidence-based psychotherapy for adults and teenagers navigating relationship challenges, self-harm, thoughts of suicide, and issues with their sense of self, self-esteem, or personality. In addition, I also specialize in borderline personality disorder (BPD). I often work with individuals who have felt misunderstood by others in their life or who have struggled to find ways to communicate their needs or feelings in healthy ways to those close to them. If you have had this experience, perhaps I can help.
I offer evidence-based psychotherapy for adults and teenagers navigating relationship challenges, self-harm, thoughts of suicide, and issues with their sense of self, self-esteem, or personality. In addition, I also specialize in borderline personality disorder (BPD). I often work with individuals who have felt misunderstood by others in their life or who have struggled to find ways to communicate their needs or feelings in healthy ways to those close to them. If you have had this experience, perhaps I can help.
(551) 321-7085 View (551) 321-7085
Photo of Regina Colgan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Northvale, NJ
Regina Colgan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PsyA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Upper Saddle River, NJ 07458
Have you heard the term “gaslighting"? Although a trendy psychological term, it’s a real phenomenon. Usually related to emotional abuse or "narcissistic abuse". Are you feeling depression and or anxiety? Do you feel like you’re in a codependent relationship? Do you question yourself and wonder why it's happening? Are you trying to manage a history of abuse, whether experienced during childhood or presently. Are you concerned about or have you been told you’re dealing with someone of narcissistic or borderline personality disorders?
Have you heard the term “gaslighting"? Although a trendy psychological term, it’s a real phenomenon. Usually related to emotional abuse or "narcissistic abuse". Are you feeling depression and or anxiety? Do you feel like you’re in a codependent relationship? Do you question yourself and wonder why it's happening? Are you trying to manage a history of abuse, whether experienced during childhood or presently. Are you concerned about or have you been told you’re dealing with someone of narcissistic or borderline personality disorders?
(973) 671-8036 View (973) 671-8036
Photo of Jin Ha Seo in Northvale, NJ
Jin Ha Seo
MHC-LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Teaneck, NJ 07666
Specialties: Trauma, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, ODD, BPD, Relationships Issues, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Parenting, Self-Esteem Issues, Anger Management, Disordered Eating, BIPOC Mental Health Issues, Identity Issues, Substance Use Concerns, Addiction, Panic Attacks, Panic Disorder, Grief & Bereavement, Sleep Problems, Schizophrenia, Personality Disorders, Mood Disorders, Life Transitions, Family Issues, Christian Counseling, Religious and Cultural Issues, Domestic Violence
Specialties: Trauma, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, ODD, BPD, Relationships Issues, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Parenting, Self-Esteem Issues, Anger Management, Disordered Eating, BIPOC Mental Health Issues, Identity Issues, Substance Use Concerns, Addiction, Panic Attacks, Panic Disorder, Grief & Bereavement, Sleep Problems, Schizophrenia, Personality Disorders, Mood Disorders, Life Transitions, Family Issues, Christian Counseling, Religious and Cultural Issues, Domestic Violence
(929) 466-9110 View (929) 466-9110
Photo of Meredith L Friedson, Psychologist in Northvale, NJ
Meredith L Friedson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Park Ridge, NJ 07656  (Online Only)
I specialize in depression, trauma, borderline personality disorder, self-injury, and psychosis.
Whether you are in an acute state of crisis, are hoping to improve relational difficulties, or merely want a space where you can feel recognized and understood, a relationship with a trusted therapist can lead to more personal freedom, self-acceptance, and lasting change. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who has experience working with people from many diverse backgrounds and all age groups. I view therapy as a collaborative effort where my goal is to help you better understand yourself. I approach therapy with non-judgmental curiosity and look forward to learning more about you.
I specialize in depression, trauma, borderline personality disorder, self-injury, and psychosis.
Whether you are in an acute state of crisis, are hoping to improve relational difficulties, or merely want a space where you can feel recognized and understood, a relationship with a trusted therapist can lead to more personal freedom, self-acceptance, and lasting change. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who has experience working with people from many diverse backgrounds and all age groups. I view therapy as a collaborative effort where my goal is to help you better understand yourself. I approach therapy with non-judgmental curiosity and look forward to learning more about you.
(201) 733-4379 View (201) 733-4379
Photo of Footprints to Feel Better, Licensed Professional Counselor in Northvale, NJ
Footprints to Feel Better
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Saddle River, NJ 07458
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, borderline, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Footprints began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, borderline, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Footprints began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
(646) 204-2295 View (646) 204-2295
Aimee Marston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Teaneck, NJ 07666
For over the past 16 years I have worked with adults and adolescents struggling with diverse mental health issues. This can include anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD,eating disorders, substance abuse, and borderline personality disorder. These issues can be influenced by stress from external triggers, including trauma, family issues, medical issues, work stress, relationship issues, and grief and loss. Throughout my extensive experience in hospital and private practice settings, I find individuals often feel intensely overwhelmed and stuck in negative thinking patterns and behaviors. By developing a therapeutic relationship, we can create a treatment plan to increase positive feelings and facilitate effective behavioral changes.
For over the past 16 years I have worked with adults and adolescents struggling with diverse mental health issues. This can include anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD,eating disorders, substance abuse, and borderline personality disorder. These issues can be influenced by stress from external triggers, including trauma, family issues, medical issues, work stress, relationship issues, and grief and loss. Throughout my extensive experience in hospital and private practice settings, I find individuals often feel intensely overwhelmed and stuck in negative thinking patterns and behaviors. By developing a therapeutic relationship, we can create a treatment plan to increase positive feelings and facilitate effective behavioral changes.
(973) 210-7887 View (973) 210-7887
Photo of Liz Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Northvale, NJ
Liz Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ho Ho Kus, NJ 07423
Do you feel as though your emotions or certain behaviors control your life? That other therapy hasn't been helpful or created the change you needed? The Behavioral Therapy Collective was created in order to offer compassionate, thoughtful, ethical and effective care. We work with high school aged teens, adults and families. People who struggle with anxiety, suicidal thoughts, self-harm behavior, depression, PTSD, OCD, eating disorders, and symptoms of borderline personality disorder greatly benefit from DBT. We have all been intensively trained in DBT, which is the evidence based treatment used to treat complex emotions.
Do you feel as though your emotions or certain behaviors control your life? That other therapy hasn't been helpful or created the change you needed? The Behavioral Therapy Collective was created in order to offer compassionate, thoughtful, ethical and effective care. We work with high school aged teens, adults and families. People who struggle with anxiety, suicidal thoughts, self-harm behavior, depression, PTSD, OCD, eating disorders, and symptoms of borderline personality disorder greatly benefit from DBT. We have all been intensively trained in DBT, which is the evidence based treatment used to treat complex emotions.
(201) 548-3610 x3 View (201) 548-3610 x3
Photo of Julie Rosenberg, MA, LPC, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Northvale, NJ
Julie Rosenberg, MA, LPC, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Closter, NJ 07624  (Online Only)
I also have experience working with the severely mentally ill population whose diagnoses include Schizophrenia and Borderline Personality Disorders.
Do you feel more stress than you can sometimes handle? Are you having problems maintaining healthy relationships with family or friends? Are money problems caused by the bad economy getting you down? We have all been through difficult times but need support to get through them. Many times family conflicts originate from someone else other than yourself. I can help you find practical coping mechanisms to get things back in order so that you may achieve happiness, intimacy and relaxation so that you may enjoy your life at the fullest capacity.
I also have experience working with the severely mentally ill population whose diagnoses include Schizophrenia and Borderline Personality Disorders.
Do you feel more stress than you can sometimes handle? Are you having problems maintaining healthy relationships with family or friends? Are money problems caused by the bad economy getting you down? We have all been through difficult times but need support to get through them. Many times family conflicts originate from someone else other than yourself. I can help you find practical coping mechanisms to get things back in order so that you may achieve happiness, intimacy and relaxation so that you may enjoy your life at the fullest capacity.
(551) 291-2265 View (551) 291-2265
Photo of Linda Centeno, Psychologist in Northvale, NJ
Linda Centeno
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
I am a highly experienced, warm, NJ and NY licensed psychologist trained at Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center. Treatment specialties include: Women's Issues (incl. Relationships, Career, Family Issues), Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), Eating Disorders (Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating Disorder), Anxiety Disorders (Panic Disorder, OCD), Depression and Bipolar Disorder, Impulse Control Difficulties (cutting, self-harm, oppositionality), Trauma, PTSD, and Sexual Abuse, Relationship Issues, and Gay/Lesbian issues.
I am a highly experienced, warm, NJ and NY licensed psychologist trained at Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center. Treatment specialties include: Women's Issues (incl. Relationships, Career, Family Issues), Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), Eating Disorders (Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating Disorder), Anxiety Disorders (Panic Disorder, OCD), Depression and Bipolar Disorder, Impulse Control Difficulties (cutting, self-harm, oppositionality), Trauma, PTSD, and Sexual Abuse, Relationship Issues, and Gay/Lesbian issues.
(201) 820-0937 View (201) 820-0937
Photo of Dana Colthart, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Northvale, NJ
Dana Colthart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Englewood, NJ 07631
SPECIALITY/TREATMENT MODALITIES anxiety disorders, OCD, eating disorders, depression, BPD, bi-polar disorder, C-PTSD, PTSD.
My approach to therapy is based on creating a strong relationship with my clients: a place where they feel safe to explore their lives . I always work collaboratively with my clients to find what techniques and therapeutic environment they need to grow, and heal. I believe that having an empathic, open, and caring therapist is where successful therapy begins. I place a strong emphasis on making my clients feel comfortable, welcome, and safe. I do not believe that one approach in therapy will work for everyone.
SPECIALITY/TREATMENT MODALITIES anxiety disorders, OCD, eating disorders, depression, BPD, bi-polar disorder, C-PTSD, PTSD.
My approach to therapy is based on creating a strong relationship with my clients: a place where they feel safe to explore their lives . I always work collaboratively with my clients to find what techniques and therapeutic environment they need to grow, and heal. I believe that having an empathic, open, and caring therapist is where successful therapy begins. I place a strong emphasis on making my clients feel comfortable, welcome, and safe. I do not believe that one approach in therapy will work for everyone.
(201) 904-4318 View (201) 904-4318
Photo of Dominique Focazio, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Northvale, NJ
Dominique Focazio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Englewood, NJ 07631
My experience has been with individuals, couples, and groups in an array of areas including Stress Management, Relationships, both PTSD and C-PTSD, BPD, Emotional Dysregulation, Non-Suicidal Self- Harm and LGBTQ+ identity formation.
I get it. Life happens. Sometimes you just need to talk and have someone listen. Whether therapy is new for you or you are revisiting it, my goal is help you create a fulfilling and happy life that you are excited to live. Whether you are looking to develop healthy coping skills or seek to dig deeper inside, I will work with you on your journey to a better understanding of who you are and who you may want to become. Note- To all the early birds: there is always time for therapy. I offer virtual sessions as early as 5am. There is always time for therapy!
My experience has been with individuals, couples, and groups in an array of areas including Stress Management, Relationships, both PTSD and C-PTSD, BPD, Emotional Dysregulation, Non-Suicidal Self- Harm and LGBTQ+ identity formation.
I get it. Life happens. Sometimes you just need to talk and have someone listen. Whether therapy is new for you or you are revisiting it, my goal is help you create a fulfilling and happy life that you are excited to live. Whether you are looking to develop healthy coping skills or seek to dig deeper inside, I will work with you on your journey to a better understanding of who you are and who you may want to become. Note- To all the early birds: there is always time for therapy. I offer virtual sessions as early as 5am. There is always time for therapy!
(201) 500-3372 View (201) 500-3372
Photo of Dr. Lori Crowson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Northvale, NJ
Dr. Lori Crowson
Licensed Professional Counselor, DBH, LPC, PLLC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Alpine, NJ 07620  (Online Only)
I have a passion to help people overcome trials of life, go in the direction of grace and acceptance, and come to terms with their shortcomings without feeling condemnation. My aim is to help people learn how to be hospitable rather than exist in a state of hostility or loneliness. While we cannot change difficult situations of our past, we can work together to better understand and resolve the resulting challenges in our life. We all share a common need to express emotions and learn new ways to cope effectively.
I have a passion to help people overcome trials of life, go in the direction of grace and acceptance, and come to terms with their shortcomings without feeling condemnation. My aim is to help people learn how to be hospitable rather than exist in a state of hostility or loneliness. While we cannot change difficult situations of our past, we can work together to better understand and resolve the resulting challenges in our life. We all share a common need to express emotions and learn new ways to cope effectively.
(405) 563-7849 View (405) 563-7849
Photo of Stella Stempel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Northvale, NJ
Stella Stempel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Englewood, NJ 07631
Trauma is not what happens to us, but what happens inside of us, as a result of what happens to us. Getting to the core of why you think, act, and behave the way you do is the key to creating the life you want — the life you’re meant to live. If you’re someone who’s felt stuck, keeps coming back to the same destructive patterns, or has tried therapy before but didn’t gain lasting change, you have come to the right place. My first priority is to understand you as a person and work collaboratively to create a treatment outline to meet your goals.
Trauma is not what happens to us, but what happens inside of us, as a result of what happens to us. Getting to the core of why you think, act, and behave the way you do is the key to creating the life you want — the life you’re meant to live. If you’re someone who’s felt stuck, keeps coming back to the same destructive patterns, or has tried therapy before but didn’t gain lasting change, you have come to the right place. My first priority is to understand you as a person and work collaboratively to create a treatment outline to meet your goals.
(201) 584-7282 View (201) 584-7282
Photo of Joel R. Sneed, Psychologist in Northvale, NJ
Joel R. Sneed
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Englewood, NJ 07631
I believe our central motivation is to seek out and maintain strong emotional bonds with important others. When this is blocked, we don't give up that need, we learn ways of connecting that are dysfunctional and that wreak havoc on our emotional lives. Thus, we often ask ourselves, "Why is it always me?" or "Why do I always do that?" or "Why am I always alone?" I believe the key to growth is in understanding how your thoughts, which we are often unaware of, influence your feelings and behavior in the context of your relationships.
I believe our central motivation is to seek out and maintain strong emotional bonds with important others. When this is blocked, we don't give up that need, we learn ways of connecting that are dysfunctional and that wreak havoc on our emotional lives. Thus, we often ask ourselves, "Why is it always me?" or "Why do I always do that?" or "Why am I always alone?" I believe the key to growth is in understanding how your thoughts, which we are often unaware of, influence your feelings and behavior in the context of your relationships.
(646) 693-3072 View (646) 693-3072

See more therapy options for Northvale

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.