Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a disorder of the emotion regulation system, commonly associated with mood lability, interpersonal problems, and impulsive behaviors. Individuals with BPD may also experience suicidal ideation, exhibit self harm, and may notice other self-destructive urges, especially when emotions become heightened or are activated by interpersonal stressors.

The biosocial theory of BPD suggests that symptoms occur as a result of a transaction between an individual’s biological vulnerabilities and a pervasive pattern of invalidation via their environment. Further, a considerable proportion of individuals formerly diagnosed with BPD have a significant history of trauma, which may contribute to ongoing difficulties with self-regulation and building trust and attachment in relationships.

While historically, BPD has been characterized as a long-standing, pervasive and permanent personality disorder, current studies have demonstrated that BPD is quite treatable. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is an evidence based treatment designed to help manage impulsive behaviors, extreme emotional responses, and self-destructive urges. DBT was originally developed by Marsha Linehan, Ph.D., ABPP, as a comprehensive cognitive-behavioral treatment, and has demonstrated the most efficacy in reducing symptoms associated with BPD.

Empirical research has shown that DBT can also help address a variety of other concerns including eating disorders, anxiety disorders, and mood disorders. DBT skills can also help you manage stress and live a healthier, more meaningful life.

DBT focuses on the acquisition of 4 critical skill sets: Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Emotion regulation, and Interpersonal effectiveness.

Our DBT Team is intensively trained by the Linehan Institute/Behavioral Tech.