Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in Chatsworth, CA

Photo of Lindsay Jeanette Sanchez, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Chatsworth, CA
Lindsay Jeanette Sanchez
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Chatsworth, CA 91311  (Online Only)
I primarily have worked in a clinical setting with individuals and children. I believe that each individual shall receive tailored treatment to their needs in order to foster growth that is sustainable. In addition, I have worked with children and teens in school and home-based settings who struggled with anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders. This may also include life changes within the familial unit or relational conflict.
I primarily have worked in a clinical setting with individuals and children. I believe that each individual shall receive tailored treatment to their needs in order to foster growth that is sustainable. In addition, I have worked with children and teens in school and home-based settings who struggled with anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders. This may also include life changes within the familial unit or relational conflict.
(818) 900-5176 View (818) 900-5176
Photo of Jaclyn Cairns, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Chatsworth, CA
Jaclyn Cairns
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chatsworth, CA 91311
My name is Jaclyn Cairns, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based in Southern California providing services statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in teaching DBT coping skills to help manage emotion regulation using mindfulness, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and dialectical thinking. I have found the DBT skills approach to be a good fit for all age groups and have successfully worked with children, teens, adults, and mature adults- all of whom have been able to learn skills and make lasting changes in their lives.
My name is Jaclyn Cairns, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based in Southern California providing services statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in teaching DBT coping skills to help manage emotion regulation using mindfulness, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and dialectical thinking. I have found the DBT skills approach to be a good fit for all age groups and have successfully worked with children, teens, adults, and mature adults- all of whom have been able to learn skills and make lasting changes in their lives.
(661) 464-1584 View (661) 464-1584

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Shira B Feinstein, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Chatsworth, CA
Shira B Feinstein
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Encino, CA 91436
Do you keep having the same argument over and over with your partner? Let's figure out the underlying needs so you can change the dance. Are you constantly in your head with fear, anxiety, or traumatic memories running your life? Let's get you back in the driver's seat. Is a pattern of "blowing things up" ruining your relationships? Let's teach you tools to help you get what you really want. I specialize in couples therapy and treating adults with trauma, OCD, BPD, and anxiety disorders. My goal is to help you discover and live your life worth living. Together, we'll build your toolkit.
Do you keep having the same argument over and over with your partner? Let's figure out the underlying needs so you can change the dance. Are you constantly in your head with fear, anxiety, or traumatic memories running your life? Let's get you back in the driver's seat. Is a pattern of "blowing things up" ruining your relationships? Let's teach you tools to help you get what you really want. I specialize in couples therapy and treating adults with trauma, OCD, BPD, and anxiety disorders. My goal is to help you discover and live your life worth living. Together, we'll build your toolkit.
(213) 737-4522 View (213) 737-4522
Photo of Laurie Boxer, Psychologist in Chatsworth, CA
Laurie Boxer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91436
Boxer has received intensive training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for the treatment of emotion and behavioral dysregulation typically, but not exclusively, associated with Borderline Personality Disorder.
Dr. Laurie Boxer is a licensed psychologist in private practice as well as clinical director of an outpatient treatment program at a medical center. A graduate of UCLA and Syracuse University, with over 20 years of clinical practice, Dr. Boxer has expertise in treating a broad range of psychological conditions and interpersonal problems. Dr. Boxer has advanced professional training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Treatment, Marital Therapy. Dr. Boxer employs empirically based approaches to the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder, and other anxiety disorders, mood disorders, emotion regulation problems, and relationship issues.
Boxer has received intensive training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for the treatment of emotion and behavioral dysregulation typically, but not exclusively, associated with Borderline Personality Disorder.
Dr. Laurie Boxer is a licensed psychologist in private practice as well as clinical director of an outpatient treatment program at a medical center. A graduate of UCLA and Syracuse University, with over 20 years of clinical practice, Dr. Boxer has expertise in treating a broad range of psychological conditions and interpersonal problems. Dr. Boxer has advanced professional training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Treatment, Marital Therapy. Dr. Boxer employs empirically based approaches to the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder, and other anxiety disorders, mood disorders, emotion regulation problems, and relationship issues.
(818) 660-0024 View (818) 660-0024
Photo of Dr. Kelly A Williams, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chatsworth, CA
Dr. Kelly A Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91411
Welcome! I want you to know that engaging in counseling is not an admission of failure. On the contrary, it is a bold statement of growth and strength. I specialize in Borderline Personality Disorder, Couples and Marital Counseling, and Trauma. Most of my clients find me easy to talk to and appreciate my practical and relational approach to treatment. Call for a free consultation - ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. I accept Private Payors, Cigna, Blue Shield of California, Magellan, United Healthcare, and Optum Health Insurance.
Welcome! I want you to know that engaging in counseling is not an admission of failure. On the contrary, it is a bold statement of growth and strength. I specialize in Borderline Personality Disorder, Couples and Marital Counseling, and Trauma. Most of my clients find me easy to talk to and appreciate my practical and relational approach to treatment. Call for a free consultation - ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. I accept Private Payors, Cigna, Blue Shield of California, Magellan, United Healthcare, and Optum Health Insurance.
(818) 287-0456 View (818) 287-0456
Photo of Megan Rich, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Chatsworth, CA
Megan Rich
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91436
Working with adults, adolescents and groups, I treat clinical issues including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, borderline personality disorder, low self esteem and relationship issues.
I provide client-centered and collaborative relational therapy informed by evidence-based treatments such as DBT, CBT, and ACT. My practice is rooted in compassion and self-determination and I help my clients dismantle the obstacles that hold them back from leading fulfilling lives. Together, we’ll identify your goals and values and build the skills required to live in line with both by exploring the personal historical patterns that have brought you to this point in your life.
Working with adults, adolescents and groups, I treat clinical issues including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, borderline personality disorder, low self esteem and relationship issues.
I provide client-centered and collaborative relational therapy informed by evidence-based treatments such as DBT, CBT, and ACT. My practice is rooted in compassion and self-determination and I help my clients dismantle the obstacles that hold them back from leading fulfilling lives. Together, we’ll identify your goals and values and build the skills required to live in line with both by exploring the personal historical patterns that have brought you to this point in your life.
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Photo of Jessica Hancock, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chatsworth, CA
Jessica Hancock
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Panorama City, CA 91402
I have been working in community mental health for 14 years and have focused my clinical lens on treating trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use, and Borderline Personality Disorder utilizing DBT, ACT, and Harm Reduction. My goal as your therapist is to support you in developing an authentic relationship with yourself, integrating challenges, and achieving your identified goals for therapy. I enjoy working with clients who are open to learning and utilizing new skills. Therapy is typically only an hour a week, so clients need to practice skills outside of therapy to see progress.
I have been working in community mental health for 14 years and have focused my clinical lens on treating trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use, and Borderline Personality Disorder utilizing DBT, ACT, and Harm Reduction. My goal as your therapist is to support you in developing an authentic relationship with yourself, integrating challenges, and achieving your identified goals for therapy. I enjoy working with clients who are open to learning and utilizing new skills. Therapy is typically only an hour a week, so clients need to practice skills outside of therapy to see progress.
(747) 298-7413 View (747) 298-7413
Photo of Dr. Brendan J Nierenberg, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chatsworth, CA
Dr. Brendan J Nierenberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Balboa, CA 91406  (Online Only)
I have been very fortunate to work with a wide range of populations including traumatic brain injury, substance abuse, eating disorders, couples and relationship issues, gender identity issues, borderline personality disorder, and men's issues.
It takes a great amount of courage to be seeking a therapist as you are doing right now. You have made the choice to seek out help, and for that, I can say you are already on your journey of healing. In a session with me, you will find acceptance, understanding, and compassion with any challenge you are facing. No matter what your goal is, you don't have to do it alone.
I have been very fortunate to work with a wide range of populations including traumatic brain injury, substance abuse, eating disorders, couples and relationship issues, gender identity issues, borderline personality disorder, and men's issues.
It takes a great amount of courage to be seeking a therapist as you are doing right now. You have made the choice to seek out help, and for that, I can say you are already on your journey of healing. In a session with me, you will find acceptance, understanding, and compassion with any challenge you are facing. No matter what your goal is, you don't have to do it alone.
(805) 243-1580 View (805) 243-1580
Photo of Karina Kazaryan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chatsworth, CA
Karina Kazaryan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Calabasas, CA 91302
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, my goal is to help individuals improve their relationships with loved ones, uncover their strengths, and acquire positive coping skills to lead a healthy life. During my 18 years as a Therapist, I have worked with families, couples, and individuals with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems. I also helped many people who have experienced trauma such as sexual, physical, and emotional abuse. In addition, I had the opportunity to work with Adult Children of parents with personality disorders, particularly Borderline and Narcissistic.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, my goal is to help individuals improve their relationships with loved ones, uncover their strengths, and acquire positive coping skills to lead a healthy life. During my 18 years as a Therapist, I have worked with families, couples, and individuals with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems. I also helped many people who have experienced trauma such as sexual, physical, and emotional abuse. In addition, I had the opportunity to work with Adult Children of parents with personality disorders, particularly Borderline and Narcissistic.
(747) 239-5371 View (747) 239-5371
Photo of Carrie Ann Cleveland, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chatsworth, CA
Carrie Ann Cleveland
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hidden Hills, CA 91302  (Online Only)
Most people come to me to feel comfortable within themselves so that they can be unapologetically, authentically, vibrantly, and joyously themselves. You can learn to set boundaries, speak your truth, and ask for what you need. I maintain a central focus on the experiences of trauma, especially within the domain of narcissistic abuse, high conflict divorce, trauma & Borderline Personality Disorder. I specialize in therapy for those impacted by interpersonal trauma and adverse childhood experiences, as well as supporting individuals from all walks of life to navigate the full range experiences you have encountered on your journey.
Most people come to me to feel comfortable within themselves so that they can be unapologetically, authentically, vibrantly, and joyously themselves. You can learn to set boundaries, speak your truth, and ask for what you need. I maintain a central focus on the experiences of trauma, especially within the domain of narcissistic abuse, high conflict divorce, trauma & Borderline Personality Disorder. I specialize in therapy for those impacted by interpersonal trauma and adverse childhood experiences, as well as supporting individuals from all walks of life to navigate the full range experiences you have encountered on your journey.
(818) 350-5223 View (818) 350-5223
Photo of Ryan Silva, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chatsworth, CA
Ryan Silva
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Tarzana, CA 91356
My professional focus primarily centers on providing therapy for individuals experiencing a range of mental health challenges, including but not limited to Anxiety, Depression, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Borderline Personality Disorder, and Bipolar Disorder.
My name is Ryan Silva, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My approach to therapy remains consistent and authentic in all interactions, emphasizing the importance of trust and openness within the therapeutic relationship. My goal is to collaboratively set meaningful and achievable objectives with clients to empower them to achieve personal growth and well-being.
My professional focus primarily centers on providing therapy for individuals experiencing a range of mental health challenges, including but not limited to Anxiety, Depression, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Borderline Personality Disorder, and Bipolar Disorder.
My name is Ryan Silva, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My approach to therapy remains consistent and authentic in all interactions, emphasizing the importance of trust and openness within the therapeutic relationship. My goal is to collaboratively set meaningful and achievable objectives with clients to empower them to achieve personal growth and well-being.
(818) 740-6989 View (818) 740-6989
Photo of Alethea Hollingshead, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chatsworth, CA
Alethea Hollingshead
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Panorama City, CA 91402
Hello there, I’m Alethea My name is Alethea Hollingshead, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based in Southern California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work primarily with individuals and adolescents and specialize in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, borderline personality disorder, and grief, using a psycho-dynamic approach that is tailored to each person’s path of growth and healing.
Hello there, I’m Alethea My name is Alethea Hollingshead, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based in Southern California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work primarily with individuals and adolescents and specialize in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, borderline personality disorder, and grief, using a psycho-dynamic approach that is tailored to each person’s path of growth and healing.
(747) 227-7631 View (747) 227-7631
Photo of Candace Taggart, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chatsworth, CA
Candace Taggart
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Granada Hills, CA 91344
My name is Candace N Taggart, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I am licensed to provide therapy in the state of California and look forward to connecting soon! My specialty areas include trauma, borderline personality, anxiety, depression, adjustment difficulties, and grief. I often work with individuals who have survived sexual trauma, grew up in an abusive family dynamic, experience difficulties setting healthy boundaries in relationships, are adjusting to major changes in life, deal with emotion regulation difficulties, struggle with intrusive thoughts, find it difficult to connect/socialize with others.
My name is Candace N Taggart, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I am licensed to provide therapy in the state of California and look forward to connecting soon! My specialty areas include trauma, borderline personality, anxiety, depression, adjustment difficulties, and grief. I often work with individuals who have survived sexual trauma, grew up in an abusive family dynamic, experience difficulties setting healthy boundaries in relationships, are adjusting to major changes in life, deal with emotion regulation difficulties, struggle with intrusive thoughts, find it difficult to connect/socialize with others.
(747) 318-4099 View (747) 318-4099
Photo of Joseph Kaspar, Psychologist in Chatsworth, CA
Joseph Kaspar
Psychologist, CP
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91316
Hi there. My name is Joseph Kaspar, PsyD. While I am flexible in my approach, I try to help my clients experience relief as quickly as possible. I am also willing to "explore the depths" with you if you are interested. I am comfortable treating most mental health issues, but I also have experience working with several specialty populations, including chemical dependency issues, law enforcement/first responder issues, and personality issues (like borderline personality disorder). I generally work with adults (18 and older). I provide (and enjoy) both individual and couples therapy.
Hi there. My name is Joseph Kaspar, PsyD. While I am flexible in my approach, I try to help my clients experience relief as quickly as possible. I am also willing to "explore the depths" with you if you are interested. I am comfortable treating most mental health issues, but I also have experience working with several specialty populations, including chemical dependency issues, law enforcement/first responder issues, and personality issues (like borderline personality disorder). I generally work with adults (18 and older). I provide (and enjoy) both individual and couples therapy.
(818) 296-6041 View (818) 296-6041
Photo of Sharon L Stroup, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chatsworth, CA
Sharon L Stroup
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Woodland Hills, CA 91364  (Online Only)
How are you functioning in your life? In your relationships? Are you joyful, confident, optimistic? Or are you feeling stuck, sad, frustrated, or lonely? Relationships are the primary force in our lives; without healthy relationships our lives suffer. Because relationships are so important, the way we attach to others is within those relationships, and how we create healthy attachments is extremely important. What I work toward is healthier relationships for my clients; relationship with self as well as with others. In our work together it will be our relationship that provides a safe place from which to explore change.
How are you functioning in your life? In your relationships? Are you joyful, confident, optimistic? Or are you feeling stuck, sad, frustrated, or lonely? Relationships are the primary force in our lives; without healthy relationships our lives suffer. Because relationships are so important, the way we attach to others is within those relationships, and how we create healthy attachments is extremely important. What I work toward is healthier relationships for my clients; relationship with self as well as with others. In our work together it will be our relationship that provides a safe place from which to explore change.
(661) 218-2223 View (661) 218-2223
Photo of Sharon Holliday in Chatsworth, CA
Sharon Holliday
Sharon Holliday, MSW, CADTP
Verified Verified
Calabasas, CA 91302
We have found to look at life differently for many reasons and we have learned life is in the here and the now. Helping clients discover their healthier self will promote less stress, anxiety, and depression in their lives. When working clients, it’s important for me to get to know who the client is, where they have been what their goals are. When one learns to set obtainable goals it’s not so overwhelming and it helps the client to feel empowered thus giving the client a sense of accomplishment instead of setting themselves up for disappointment. The importance of this is to help the client to obtain tools use in their lives.
We have found to look at life differently for many reasons and we have learned life is in the here and the now. Helping clients discover their healthier self will promote less stress, anxiety, and depression in their lives. When working clients, it’s important for me to get to know who the client is, where they have been what their goals are. When one learns to set obtainable goals it’s not so overwhelming and it helps the client to feel empowered thus giving the client a sense of accomplishment instead of setting themselves up for disappointment. The importance of this is to help the client to obtain tools use in their lives.
(747) 223-6318 View (747) 223-6318
Photo of Ashley Ribeiro in Chatsworth, CA
Ashley Ribeiro
PsyD, BCBA
Verified Verified
Calabasas, CA 91302
Dr. Ashley Ribeiro earned her BA in Psychology from UCSB and went on to complete her Masters and Doctorate in Clinical Psychology at CLU. She completed her pre-doctoral internship at the CARD Assessment Center and her two year post-doctoral fellowship at UCLA in the Center for Autism Research & Treatment. She has held positions in both clinical and research settings. Dr. Ribeiro worked at UCLA as a postdoctoral scholar and clinical instructor for a pioneering NIH funded autism biomarkers study. She currently has her own private practice in Ventura County and is also an adjunct professor in both graduate and undergraduate programs at CLU.
Dr. Ashley Ribeiro earned her BA in Psychology from UCSB and went on to complete her Masters and Doctorate in Clinical Psychology at CLU. She completed her pre-doctoral internship at the CARD Assessment Center and her two year post-doctoral fellowship at UCLA in the Center for Autism Research & Treatment. She has held positions in both clinical and research settings. Dr. Ribeiro worked at UCLA as a postdoctoral scholar and clinical instructor for a pioneering NIH funded autism biomarkers study. She currently has her own private practice in Ventura County and is also an adjunct professor in both graduate and undergraduate programs at CLU.
(805) 324-6921 View (805) 324-6921
Photo of Ruth Avalos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chatsworth, CA
Ruth Avalos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Calabasas, CA 91302
I use an empathic, nonjudgemental, and strengths-based approach to therapy with my clients. I specialize in working with adolescents and adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, personality disorders, trauma, self-harm, disordered eating behaviors, and relationship difficulties. My approach is collaborative, so that we can work together to reach your goals that are most important to you. Our individual sessions may include homework to increase practice with skills/strategies.
I use an empathic, nonjudgemental, and strengths-based approach to therapy with my clients. I specialize in working with adolescents and adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, personality disorders, trauma, self-harm, disordered eating behaviors, and relationship difficulties. My approach is collaborative, so that we can work together to reach your goals that are most important to you. Our individual sessions may include homework to increase practice with skills/strategies.
(323) 900-5071 View (323) 900-5071
Photo of Niles D Willits-Spolin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chatsworth, CA
Niles D Willits-Spolin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Encino, CA 91436
I take time to know my clients in the total context of their lives, not just their diagnosis and symptoms. I build comfortable, in-depth professional relationships with great safety and trust by focusing on what matters to my clients and tracking our work, session to session. This working part of therapy is about co-investigating beliefs, patterns of thinking and behaving, clarifying personal values and practicing new skills and ways of being. I am direct and lend accurate guidance to help clients take planned steps. Many clients are awe-inspired by their capacities to reflect and create change in their lives. This is powerful!
I take time to know my clients in the total context of their lives, not just their diagnosis and symptoms. I build comfortable, in-depth professional relationships with great safety and trust by focusing on what matters to my clients and tracking our work, session to session. This working part of therapy is about co-investigating beliefs, patterns of thinking and behaving, clarifying personal values and practicing new skills and ways of being. I am direct and lend accurate guidance to help clients take planned steps. Many clients are awe-inspired by their capacities to reflect and create change in their lives. This is powerful!
(818) 814-6756 View (818) 814-6756
Photo of Larisa Escalante, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chatsworth, CA
Larisa Escalante
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Panorama City, CA 91402
My name is Larisa Escalante, and I am licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT 140018). My approach to therapy is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), a highly effective and evidence-based therapeutic modality. In addition to my expertise in CBT, I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Brainspotting therapies. These trauma-focused therapies are instrumental in helping individuals process and heal from distressing or traumatic experiences, fostering resilience and emotional growth.
My name is Larisa Escalante, and I am licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT 140018). My approach to therapy is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), a highly effective and evidence-based therapeutic modality. In addition to my expertise in CBT, I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Brainspotting therapies. These trauma-focused therapies are instrumental in helping individuals process and heal from distressing or traumatic experiences, fostering resilience and emotional growth.
(747) 285-7137 View (747) 285-7137
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.