Borderline Personality (BPD) Therapists in Wisconsin

Photo of Angela Tayson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin
Angela Tayson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Green Bay, WI 54311  (Online Only)
Over the years I have served many different populations, I have gained a lot of experience working with autism, PTSD, anxiety, depression, trauma, Bi polar, and borderline personality disorders.
Hello, I am Angela Tayson I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and hold a master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling. At some point in our lives we all fall on hard times and face struggles that seem impossible to overcome and can leave us feeling lost. Allow me to guide you towards the life that you want and deserve. I believe that change is constant and certain so I like to meet clients where they are and help them get where they want to be. I have helped many achieve constructive changes that have lead them to emotional healing. With years of experience in mental health I’ll help you learn the skills you need
Over the years I have served many different populations, I have gained a lot of experience working with autism, PTSD, anxiety, depression, trauma, Bi polar, and borderline personality disorders.
Hello, I am Angela Tayson I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and hold a master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling. At some point in our lives we all fall on hard times and face struggles that seem impossible to overcome and can leave us feeling lost. Allow me to guide you towards the life that you want and deserve. I believe that change is constant and certain so I like to meet clients where they are and help them get where they want to be. I have helped many achieve constructive changes that have lead them to emotional healing. With years of experience in mental health I’ll help you learn the skills you need
(920) 949-7175 View (920) 949-7175
Photo of Nicholas Salazar, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin
Nicholas Salazar
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glendale, WI 53209
I am a licensed professional counselor with experience helping patients managing depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and borderline personality disorder.
Are you feeling unsure of what to do or where to go next? Stuck in habits that have kept you safe but are wishing there may be some other way to live? If you feel like you may want to find a little bit more to enjoy out of life and to have a space to find support in putting down the weight of your day-to-day, to help learn new skills to manage stress, regulate emotions, and to explore the possibilities of a life worth living then you’ve come to the right place. Whether it's a space to talk things through, or explore new ideas, I'd be more than happy to help where I can. Currently my most common availability is every other week.
I am a licensed professional counselor with experience helping patients managing depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and borderline personality disorder.
Are you feeling unsure of what to do or where to go next? Stuck in habits that have kept you safe but are wishing there may be some other way to live? If you feel like you may want to find a little bit more to enjoy out of life and to have a space to find support in putting down the weight of your day-to-day, to help learn new skills to manage stress, regulate emotions, and to explore the possibilities of a life worth living then you’ve come to the right place. Whether it's a space to talk things through, or explore new ideas, I'd be more than happy to help where I can. Currently my most common availability is every other week.
(414) 667-6101 View (414) 667-6101
Photo of Pauquette Center for Psychological Services, Psychologist in Wisconsin
Pauquette Center for Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD, DBT-LBC
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53704  (Online Only)
Chapin specializes in treatment of trauma & delivery of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for the treatment of Borderline Personality Disorder and other problems in living including suicide attempts, self-harm, impulsive behavior, substance use, aggression, & difficulty regulating emotions.
Have you been struggling with suicidal thoughts, self-injury, or other high risk behaviors? Do you have difficulty navigating your relationships in ways you feel good about or feel frequently misunderstood by others? Are you frequently overwhelmed by your emotions? If any of this sounds like you, Dr. Chapin and the Pauquette Center can help. We specialize in providing treatments that can help manage personal and emotional chaos and help you to feel more in control.
Chapin specializes in treatment of trauma & delivery of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for the treatment of Borderline Personality Disorder and other problems in living including suicide attempts, self-harm, impulsive behavior, substance use, aggression, & difficulty regulating emotions.
Have you been struggling with suicidal thoughts, self-injury, or other high risk behaviors? Do you have difficulty navigating your relationships in ways you feel good about or feel frequently misunderstood by others? Are you frequently overwhelmed by your emotions? If any of this sounds like you, Dr. Chapin and the Pauquette Center can help. We specialize in providing treatments that can help manage personal and emotional chaos and help you to feel more in control.
(608) 299-6527 View (608) 299-6527
Photo of Kim Marohl, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin
Kim Marohl
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Green Bay, WI 54302
I have extensive training and many years of experience in treating borderline personality disorder, trauma, anxiety and mood disorders. I believe it is necessary to provide collaborative, compassionate, and evidenced based care that is mindfully adapted to each person.
I have extensive training and many years of experience in treating borderline personality disorder, trauma, anxiety and mood disorders. I believe it is necessary to provide collaborative, compassionate, and evidenced based care that is mindfully adapted to each person.
(920) 278-2620 View (920) 278-2620
Photo of Kimberly H. Washington, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin
Kimberly H. Washington
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mukwonago, WI 53149
Waitlist for new clients
Kimberly works with teens and young adults specializing in ADHD, mood disorders, and borderline personality disorder.
Kimberly is a psychotherapist and nationally certified counselor who received her Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from Lakeland University, Sheboygan, WI, and her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ. She has worked in behavioral health since 2012, and is the founder and owner of her private practice. "My passion is to help those who seek behavioral and emotional changes, and to give hope during times when it may feel like no one understands or listens. Together, we can get through the hard things."
Kimberly works with teens and young adults specializing in ADHD, mood disorders, and borderline personality disorder.
Kimberly is a psychotherapist and nationally certified counselor who received her Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from Lakeland University, Sheboygan, WI, and her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ. She has worked in behavioral health since 2012, and is the founder and owner of her private practice. "My passion is to help those who seek behavioral and emotional changes, and to give hope during times when it may feel like no one understands or listens. Together, we can get through the hard things."
(262) 955-8965 View (262) 955-8965
Photo of Healthy Minds Healing Hearts LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wisconsin
Healthy Minds Healing Hearts LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mequon, WI 53097
Waitlist for new clients
Brittany is a Certified-DBT therapist and specializes in helping teens and adults dealing with anxiety, depression, and Borderline Personality Disorder as well as those struggling with self harm and suicidal ideations.
Brittany brings a direct, honest, and goal-oriented personality to every session and is not afraid to challenge you to help you to grow.
Brittany is a Certified-DBT therapist and specializes in helping teens and adults dealing with anxiety, depression, and Borderline Personality Disorder as well as those struggling with self harm and suicidal ideations.
Brittany brings a direct, honest, and goal-oriented personality to every session and is not afraid to challenge you to help you to grow.
(262) 214-3678 View (262) 214-3678
Photo of DBT Center of Wisconsin LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wisconsin
DBT Center of Wisconsin LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Waupaca, WI 54981  (Online Only)
Since 2008, I have worked with clients who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma-related symptoms, PTSD, and borderline personality disorder.
My name is Holly Erskine and I am a licensed clinical social worker. You have demonstrated a lot of courage by reaching out for help. I am here to offer you a safe space where you can feel heard. I approach psychotherapy using a trauma-informed perspective which means your struggles are understandable based on your life experiences and we can work together to find effective ways to achieve your goals. I am committed to providing empathic and compassionate care so you feel comfortable and free to explore personal change.
Since 2008, I have worked with clients who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma-related symptoms, PTSD, and borderline personality disorder.
My name is Holly Erskine and I am a licensed clinical social worker. You have demonstrated a lot of courage by reaching out for help. I am here to offer you a safe space where you can feel heard. I approach psychotherapy using a trauma-informed perspective which means your struggles are understandable based on your life experiences and we can work together to find effective ways to achieve your goals. I am committed to providing empathic and compassionate care so you feel comfortable and free to explore personal change.
(715) 322-3408 View (715) 322-3408
Photo of Stephanie Payne Capecchi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wisconsin
Stephanie Payne Capecchi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Monona, WI 53716
I’ve been working with people with the set of symptoms that we call borderline personality disorder since 2018.
Having borderline personality disorder can be excruciating. Relationships feel scary and unpredictable, and like you might not survive another rejection. Sometimes things feel amazing and sometimes they feel so bad you don’t even want to be alive. It can be hard to find a therapist who understands, and who has the training to work with your specific needs. Together, we can work towards feeling more confident, peaceful, and sure of who you are.
I’ve been working with people with the set of symptoms that we call borderline personality disorder since 2018.
Having borderline personality disorder can be excruciating. Relationships feel scary and unpredictable, and like you might not survive another rejection. Sometimes things feel amazing and sometimes they feel so bad you don’t even want to be alive. It can be hard to find a therapist who understands, and who has the training to work with your specific needs. Together, we can work towards feeling more confident, peaceful, and sure of who you are.
(608) 570-7924 View (608) 570-7924
Photo of Kallyn Heiges, Counselor in Wisconsin
Kallyn Heiges
Counselor, MS, LPC-IT
Verified Verified
Greenfield, WI 53221
I received my Bachelor's in Psychology and my graduate degree in Counseling with a Clinical Mental Health concentration from Mount Mary University. I am passionate about helping others with their mental health journey. I come from a background of working in inpatient and residential care with clients ages 11 and up. I have experience in various areas such as: Anxiety, Adolescent Issues, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Family Therapy, Grief & Loss, Self-Esteem, Self-Harm, Social Anxiety, Substance Use, and Suicidal Thoughts.
I received my Bachelor's in Psychology and my graduate degree in Counseling with a Clinical Mental Health concentration from Mount Mary University. I am passionate about helping others with their mental health journey. I come from a background of working in inpatient and residential care with clients ages 11 and up. I have experience in various areas such as: Anxiety, Adolescent Issues, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Family Therapy, Grief & Loss, Self-Esteem, Self-Harm, Social Anxiety, Substance Use, and Suicidal Thoughts.
(414) 310-6653 View (414) 310-6653
Photo of Matt Schneider, Psychologist in Wisconsin
Matt Schneider
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53705
Across depression, anxiety, PTSD, BPD, self-harm, and more, I strive to help you find your reasons to live.
I work with adults and adolescents using an integrative framework in order to meet your individual needs. As long as you are motivated to make positive changes in your life, I'm here to help you through it. While, I am able to help you through a variety of difficulties, there are 3 primary groups that I specialize in working with. First, I enjoy working with members of the LGBTQ+ community, particularly around support with identity exploration or gender affirming care. I know the importance of having someone knowledgeable about some of the specific issues that this community faces and am available to talk about any difficulties.
Across depression, anxiety, PTSD, BPD, self-harm, and more, I strive to help you find your reasons to live.
I work with adults and adolescents using an integrative framework in order to meet your individual needs. As long as you are motivated to make positive changes in your life, I'm here to help you through it. While, I am able to help you through a variety of difficulties, there are 3 primary groups that I specialize in working with. First, I enjoy working with members of the LGBTQ+ community, particularly around support with identity exploration or gender affirming care. I know the importance of having someone knowledgeable about some of the specific issues that this community faces and am available to talk about any difficulties.
(608) 305-8207 x339 View (608) 305-8207 x339
Photo of Loria Boone, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin
Loria Boone
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53215
Hi, my name is Loria Boone. I am a licensed professional counselor with 10 years of experience in behavioral health. I am intensively trained in dialectical behavioral therapy. This is an evidence-based practice used to treat an array of concerns including borderline personality disorder, self-harm, interpersonal issues, and difficulty coping with life stressors. I approach therapy collaboratively. My clients are the experts in their own lives. I use dialectical behavioral therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy to increase mindfulness, build insight, and teach skills.
Hi, my name is Loria Boone. I am a licensed professional counselor with 10 years of experience in behavioral health. I am intensively trained in dialectical behavioral therapy. This is an evidence-based practice used to treat an array of concerns including borderline personality disorder, self-harm, interpersonal issues, and difficulty coping with life stressors. I approach therapy collaboratively. My clients are the experts in their own lives. I use dialectical behavioral therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy to increase mindfulness, build insight, and teach skills.
(414) 485-9925 View (414) 485-9925
Photo of Lisa R Herpolsheimer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wisconsin
Lisa R Herpolsheimer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, C-DBT, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
Delafield, WI 53018
Waitlist for new clients
I use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), persons 12yrs-Adult are my focus. I use a strengths-based approach, compassionate acceptance, & DBT Skills Training to help people with sensitive emotions. My style is warm and engaging. I am DBT-Trained through Marsha Linehan's B-Tech Institute which provides the highest caliber of DBT training available. I have advanced training and the expertise to care for: Persons with Borderline Personality Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, OCD and Complex Trauma. Please TEXT me directly and privately for the fastest response to your inquiry at: (262) 744-5201.
I use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), persons 12yrs-Adult are my focus. I use a strengths-based approach, compassionate acceptance, & DBT Skills Training to help people with sensitive emotions. My style is warm and engaging. I am DBT-Trained through Marsha Linehan's B-Tech Institute which provides the highest caliber of DBT training available. I have advanced training and the expertise to care for: Persons with Borderline Personality Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, OCD and Complex Trauma. Please TEXT me directly and privately for the fastest response to your inquiry at: (262) 744-5201.
(262) 214-6560 View (262) 214-6560
Photo of Amber L Ault, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wisconsin
Amber L Ault
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53705
I specialize in working w/ individuals & couples struggling w/ toxic relationship patterns often driven by personality disorders such as Narcissistic Personality Disorder, Anti-social Personality Disorder, and Borderline Personality Disorder.
You're here because you're somewhere between "deeply worried" & "frantic" over a difficult relationship. You feel frustrated, confused, hurt, angry, & maybe a little crazy. The other person may be a partner, parent, sibling, or adult child - someone w/whom you feel you want to have a relationship, but whose criticisms, controlling behaviors. volatility, manipulations, or demands steal your joy. They may also cost you a lot of time, money, energy, social support, & creativity. You wonder if you're dealing w Narcissistic Abuse. They refuse to change. You believe staying stuck where you are may destroy you, and you may be right.
I specialize in working w/ individuals & couples struggling w/ toxic relationship patterns often driven by personality disorders such as Narcissistic Personality Disorder, Anti-social Personality Disorder, and Borderline Personality Disorder.
You're here because you're somewhere between "deeply worried" & "frantic" over a difficult relationship. You feel frustrated, confused, hurt, angry, & maybe a little crazy. The other person may be a partner, parent, sibling, or adult child - someone w/whom you feel you want to have a relationship, but whose criticisms, controlling behaviors. volatility, manipulations, or demands steal your joy. They may also cost you a lot of time, money, energy, social support, & creativity. You wonder if you're dealing w Narcissistic Abuse. They refuse to change. You believe staying stuck where you are may destroy you, and you may be right.
(608) 557-3341 View (608) 557-3341
Photo of Kristen Serchen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wisconsin
Kristen Serchen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53202  (Online Only)
One of my passions is working with borderline personality disorder and individuals who are having difficulty managing their emotions, relationships with others, and self-destructive behaviors.
Welcome! I believe therapy can be life-changing and I am committed to supporting you on your personal journey toward healing, growth, and well-being. As an experienced therapist, I can help reduce the stress you are feeling. My goal is to provide a warm, safe, and supportive environment where you'll receive compassionate support to work through your troubles and reach your goals.
One of my passions is working with borderline personality disorder and individuals who are having difficulty managing their emotions, relationships with others, and self-destructive behaviors.
Welcome! I believe therapy can be life-changing and I am committed to supporting you on your personal journey toward healing, growth, and well-being. As an experienced therapist, I can help reduce the stress you are feeling. My goal is to provide a warm, safe, and supportive environment where you'll receive compassionate support to work through your troubles and reach your goals.
(262) 300-7265 View (262) 300-7265
Photo of Nichole Baumgartner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin
Nichole Baumgartner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Green Bay, WI 54301
Waitlist for new clients
I support neurodivergent adults (ADHD, Autism, BPD, PTSD, etc) in better understanding their brains and creating systems that actually work for them. So often my clients tell me that they feel like everyone else got a user manual for life but they were absent that day so I work with folks to create a better user manual for their unique brains so they can navigate life with more ease and focus on what matters to them most.
I support neurodivergent adults (ADHD, Autism, BPD, PTSD, etc) in better understanding their brains and creating systems that actually work for them. So often my clients tell me that they feel like everyone else got a user manual for life but they were absent that day so I work with folks to create a better user manual for their unique brains so they can navigate life with more ease and focus on what matters to them most.
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Photo of Susan A. Ringle, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin
Susan A. Ringle
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LPCC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Waukesha, WI 53188  (Online Only)
Additionally, I am experienced in successfully treating Borderline Personality, Attachment & Adoptions issues, parent-child/adolescent conflicts, and family and family systems distress.
A sense of safety is critical for progress in psychotherapy, and I take care to provide that sense of safety for each person I serve. I appreciate the uniqueness of each person and family I encounter, and work in partnership with them to create their own unique healing process, based upon proven treatments, solid research, and recent advances in treatment protocol. I am a certified trauma counselor, registered play therapist, and Theraplay practitioner and trainer. I provide family therapy that prioritizes the value of each member of the family, healing individuals and relationships, and building or rebuilding healthy family dynamics.
Additionally, I am experienced in successfully treating Borderline Personality, Attachment & Adoptions issues, parent-child/adolescent conflicts, and family and family systems distress.
A sense of safety is critical for progress in psychotherapy, and I take care to provide that sense of safety for each person I serve. I appreciate the uniqueness of each person and family I encounter, and work in partnership with them to create their own unique healing process, based upon proven treatments, solid research, and recent advances in treatment protocol. I am a certified trauma counselor, registered play therapist, and Theraplay practitioner and trainer. I provide family therapy that prioritizes the value of each member of the family, healing individuals and relationships, and building or rebuilding healthy family dynamics.
(262) 600-3145 View (262) 600-3145
Photo of Victoria Zweifelhofer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wisconsin
Victoria Zweifelhofer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Eau Claire, WI 54701
Depression, Anxiety, Trauma and Complex Trauma, Borderline Personality Disorder, Eating Disorders, individuals with multiple diagnoses, couples therapy, and group therapy.
My clinical approach is integrative and collaborative as all people are different. Mindfulness is at the core of all approaches I utilize in practice. I utilize Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to help clients build a base of skills to improve their quality of life including decreasing unhealthy coping mechanisms and building healthier relationships. I work with a variety of techniques with individuals who struggle with PTSD or Complex PTSD including Self-Compassion, Prolonged Exposure, and Somatic therapies. I provide tools for clients to practice in between sessions to help them progress toward their individual goals.
Depression, Anxiety, Trauma and Complex Trauma, Borderline Personality Disorder, Eating Disorders, individuals with multiple diagnoses, couples therapy, and group therapy.
My clinical approach is integrative and collaborative as all people are different. Mindfulness is at the core of all approaches I utilize in practice. I utilize Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to help clients build a base of skills to improve their quality of life including decreasing unhealthy coping mechanisms and building healthier relationships. I work with a variety of techniques with individuals who struggle with PTSD or Complex PTSD including Self-Compassion, Prolonged Exposure, and Somatic therapies. I provide tools for clients to practice in between sessions to help them progress toward their individual goals.
(715) 227-2090 View (715) 227-2090
Photo of Darcy Thompson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wisconsin
Darcy Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, APSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53209
I have experience working with individuals with Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, CPTSD, BPD, Bipolar disorders, Schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders.
Hello! I am so excited to work with you on your treatment goals. I received my Bachelors and Masters of Social Work degrees from the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee, where I studied and practiced Trauma-Informed care, Person-Centered treatment approaches and Solution-Focused therapies. I also have experience using Motivational Interviewing, Crisis Stabilization and Intervention, Psychodynamic Therapy, Mindfulness, and Emotion-Regulation practices.
I have experience working with individuals with Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, CPTSD, BPD, Bipolar disorders, Schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders.
Hello! I am so excited to work with you on your treatment goals. I received my Bachelors and Masters of Social Work degrees from the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee, where I studied and practiced Trauma-Informed care, Person-Centered treatment approaches and Solution-Focused therapies. I also have experience using Motivational Interviewing, Crisis Stabilization and Intervention, Psychodynamic Therapy, Mindfulness, and Emotion-Regulation practices.
(414) 348-0043 View (414) 348-0043
Photo of Zamzam Zaman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin
Zamzam Zaman
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sussex, WI 53089  (Online Only)
I help my clients process in a non-judgmental, supportive and trusting environment which can oftentimes be a powerful catalyst for healing, and for bringing about meaningful change.
I help my clients process in a non-judgmental, supportive and trusting environment which can oftentimes be a powerful catalyst for healing, and for bringing about meaningful change.
(262) 468-9988 View (262) 468-9988
Edelweiss Behavioral Health LLC
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53717
Our goal at Edelweiss Behavioral Health is to provide specialized treatment to individuals struggling with Eating Disorders and Obsessive Compulsive Disorders. We provide group therapy and individual therapy. We are now also offering medication management! Our experienced staff works collaboratively with each client to provide patient centered, individualized support to encourage recovery goals. Please note, we do see individuals with any mental health struggles, however we only do Intensive Outpatient Treatment (group therapy) for those struggling with Eating Disorders and Obsessive Compulsive Disorders.
Our goal at Edelweiss Behavioral Health is to provide specialized treatment to individuals struggling with Eating Disorders and Obsessive Compulsive Disorders. We provide group therapy and individual therapy. We are now also offering medication management! Our experienced staff works collaboratively with each client to provide patient centered, individualized support to encourage recovery goals. Please note, we do see individuals with any mental health struggles, however we only do Intensive Outpatient Treatment (group therapy) for those struggling with Eating Disorders and Obsessive Compulsive Disorders.
(608) 360-9805 View (608) 360-9805
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.