Photo of Dorothy Irene Parker, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Virginia
Dorothy Irene Parker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Midlothian, VA 23113
Her areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, suicide prevention, trauma, PTSD, bipolar disorders, psychosis, sleep disorders, substance dependence, and borderline personality disorder.
Dot is particularly passionate about client advocacy and providing holistic care that considers all aspects of health to achieve overall well-being. She believes care should be personalized to meet the unique needs and experiences of individuals. She provides a warm, nonjudgmental, and encouraging environment to help anyone looking for a safe space to achieve mental health wellbeing.
Her areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, suicide prevention, trauma, PTSD, bipolar disorders, psychosis, sleep disorders, substance dependence, and borderline personality disorder.
Dot is particularly passionate about client advocacy and providing holistic care that considers all aspects of health to achieve overall well-being. She believes care should be personalized to meet the unique needs and experiences of individuals. She provides a warm, nonjudgmental, and encouraging environment to help anyone looking for a safe space to achieve mental health wellbeing.
(804) 607-8182 View (804) 607-8182
Photo of Georgina Coca, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Virginia
Georgina Coca
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
As a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I treat people struggling with Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, OCD, Bipolar disorder, Panic disorder, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective disorder, PTSD, Borderline personality disorder, and Eating disorder. With over eight years of experience in outpatient and in-patient psychiatric and Mental Health services, I am solution-oriented. My approach embodies my core values of humility, respect, honesty, reliability, motivation, and consistency. I treat my clients with utmost care, active listening, and education. I start medication with the lowest dose for tolerability and adjust as needed.
As a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I treat people struggling with Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, OCD, Bipolar disorder, Panic disorder, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective disorder, PTSD, Borderline personality disorder, and Eating disorder. With over eight years of experience in outpatient and in-patient psychiatric and Mental Health services, I am solution-oriented. My approach embodies my core values of humility, respect, honesty, reliability, motivation, and consistency. I treat my clients with utmost care, active listening, and education. I start medication with the lowest dose for tolerability and adjust as needed.
(571) 450-9127 View (571) 450-9127
Photo of Olivia Bonanno, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Virginia
Olivia Bonanno
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23455  (Online Only)
My specialty treatment areas include Depression, Anxiety, Stress Management, OCD, Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders, Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Codependency and Relationship Health, Caregiver Burnout, Compassion Fatigue, Borderline Personality Disorder, Grief and Bereavement and Gender Dysphoria.
Let me help you protect your peace. I take a trauma-informed care approach with all clients. I value the combination of medication management and psychotherapy in treatment. Even if you are just looking for a new medication provider- I care about you, what you are going through and am here for support. I'm a certified perinatal mental health provider and can provide specialized treatment anywhere along your perinatal journey. I strive to create a safe and inclusive space for all, particularly the LGBTQ+ community. I look forward to working with you and helping you protect your peace!
My specialty treatment areas include Depression, Anxiety, Stress Management, OCD, Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders, Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Codependency and Relationship Health, Caregiver Burnout, Compassion Fatigue, Borderline Personality Disorder, Grief and Bereavement and Gender Dysphoria.
Let me help you protect your peace. I take a trauma-informed care approach with all clients. I value the combination of medication management and psychotherapy in treatment. Even if you are just looking for a new medication provider- I care about you, what you are going through and am here for support. I'm a certified perinatal mental health provider and can provide specialized treatment anywhere along your perinatal journey. I strive to create a safe and inclusive space for all, particularly the LGBTQ+ community. I look forward to working with you and helping you protect your peace!
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Photo of Anna Wilson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Virginia
Anna Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
South Riding, VA 20152  (Online Only)
Anna has been working with adults and adolescents in the specialty areas of treating borderline personality disorder, eating disorders, gender dysphoria, depression, and anxiety.
Anna believes in a holistic and client-oriented approach to medication management. She believes it is important to consider a client's personal beliefs, spiritual values and cultural diversity when providing care. Her goal is to break stigma regarding mental health and teach her clients the important of taking care of their own mind and body.
Anna has been working with adults and adolescents in the specialty areas of treating borderline personality disorder, eating disorders, gender dysphoria, depression, and anxiety.
Anna believes in a holistic and client-oriented approach to medication management. She believes it is important to consider a client's personal beliefs, spiritual values and cultural diversity when providing care. Her goal is to break stigma regarding mental health and teach her clients the important of taking care of their own mind and body.
(571) 556-3771 View (571) 556-3771
Photo of Sophia Gizaw, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Virginia
Sophia Gizaw
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbridge, VA 22192
As a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I offer medication management and supportive therapy for people with conditions such as Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, OCD, ADHD, Panic disorder, PTSD, Borderline Personality disorder, Autism, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective disorder, Intermittent Explosive Disorder, Oppositional defiant disorder, etcetera. With more than ten years of experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric and mental health services, I am solution-oriented and culturally sensitive. I treat my patients with empathy, compassion, and respect.
As a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I offer medication management and supportive therapy for people with conditions such as Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, OCD, ADHD, Panic disorder, PTSD, Borderline Personality disorder, Autism, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective disorder, Intermittent Explosive Disorder, Oppositional defiant disorder, etcetera. With more than ten years of experience in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric and mental health services, I am solution-oriented and culturally sensitive. I treat my patients with empathy, compassion, and respect.
(571) 556-9335 View (571) 556-9335
Photo of LaToya Mullen, Psychiatric Medication Management, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Virginia
LaToya Mullen, Psychiatric Medication Management
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, MS, BN, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
Customized treatment for OCD, depression, BPD, ADHD, panic attacks, and other challenges.
Do you need a prescription for psychiatric medication, or help balancing your medications? Has your therapist recommended medication? Do you struggle with ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, insomnia or disordered sleep, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), mood disorders, or psychosis? Often, medication can help you achieve calm, focus, and balance. Working together, we will find and fine-tune the medications that address your needs. Medication, or medication combined with therapy, supports significant improvement for many clients. Reach out today for board-certified psychiatric support.
Customized treatment for OCD, depression, BPD, ADHD, panic attacks, and other challenges.
Do you need a prescription for psychiatric medication, or help balancing your medications? Has your therapist recommended medication? Do you struggle with ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, insomnia or disordered sleep, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), mood disorders, or psychosis? Often, medication can help you achieve calm, focus, and balance. Working together, we will find and fine-tune the medications that address your needs. Medication, or medication combined with therapy, supports significant improvement for many clients. Reach out today for board-certified psychiatric support.
(703) 687-0224 View (703) 687-0224
Photo of Covenant Behavioral Health LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Virginia
Covenant Behavioral Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22191  (Online Only)
Catherine is experienced in treating psychiatric disorders like Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, BPD, OCD, PTSD, ADHD/ADD, Schizophrenia, SUD, Eating disorders, Mood disorders, suicidal ideation and therapy.
Catherine Ben-Agu is a board certified licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner in the state of Virginia, Maryland, and Washington DC. She has 8years of experience in psychiatry. Catherine attended Walden University where she completed her bachelors and masters degree in nursing. Through her many years of experience, she has been able to partner with children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric clients seeking help with diverse psychiatric problems. Catherine facilitate significant improvement in client’s presenting symptoms through proper assessment, accurate diagnoses, prescriptions, treatment, and evaluation
Catherine is experienced in treating psychiatric disorders like Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, BPD, OCD, PTSD, ADHD/ADD, Schizophrenia, SUD, Eating disorders, Mood disorders, suicidal ideation and therapy.
Catherine Ben-Agu is a board certified licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse practitioner in the state of Virginia, Maryland, and Washington DC. She has 8years of experience in psychiatry. Catherine attended Walden University where she completed her bachelors and masters degree in nursing. Through her many years of experience, she has been able to partner with children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric clients seeking help with diverse psychiatric problems. Catherine facilitate significant improvement in client’s presenting symptoms through proper assessment, accurate diagnoses, prescriptions, treatment, and evaluation
(571) 901-1302 View (571) 901-1302
Photo of Dr. Marie C. Campagnone, Psychiatrist, Psychiatrist in Virginia
Dr. Marie C. Campagnone, Psychiatrist
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), for example, is often a key part of treatment for BPD.
Do you need professional psychiatric support for medication management? Do you need help coping with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia? I am a psychiatrist, providing online care to patients in Maryland and Virginia and I look forward to providing you with the psychiatric care that best meets your needs and supports your emotional wellness. Care may include medication management, psychotherapy, or a combination of medication management and therapy. If you are in therapy and your therapist has suggested medication, we will work collaboratively with your psychotherapist.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), for example, is often a key part of treatment for BPD.
Do you need professional psychiatric support for medication management? Do you need help coping with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia? I am a psychiatrist, providing online care to patients in Maryland and Virginia and I look forward to providing you with the psychiatric care that best meets your needs and supports your emotional wellness. Care may include medication management, psychotherapy, or a combination of medication management and therapy. If you are in therapy and your therapist has suggested medication, we will work collaboratively with your psychotherapist.
(301) 753-3430 View (301) 753-3430
Photo of Kate Tucker Tibbs, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Virginia
Kate Tucker Tibbs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glen Allen, VA 23059
I am Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience, providing medication management and adjunctive psychotherapy to children, adolescents and adults. I believe in a multifaceted collaborative approach to patient-centered care. My focus is on the whole person, including medical, emotional, social, and spiritual aspects. Medication management is just one element of a successful treatment plan and that supportive therapy and teaching coping strategies are valuable tools in treatment. I am currently accepting new patients in the Glen Allen office and/or telehealth.
I am Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience, providing medication management and adjunctive psychotherapy to children, adolescents and adults. I believe in a multifaceted collaborative approach to patient-centered care. My focus is on the whole person, including medical, emotional, social, and spiritual aspects. Medication management is just one element of a successful treatment plan and that supportive therapy and teaching coping strategies are valuable tools in treatment. I am currently accepting new patients in the Glen Allen office and/or telehealth.
(804) 376-5312 x2 View (804) 376-5312 x2
Photo of Sherelle Jones, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Virginia
Sherelle Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23320  (Online Only)
My ultimate goal as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner is to be able to effectively assess, diagnose, and treat commonly occurring mental health conditions while providing a personalize holistic care approach.
My ultimate goal as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner is to be able to effectively assess, diagnose, and treat commonly occurring mental health conditions while providing a personalize holistic care approach.
(757) 906-6731 View (757) 906-6731
Photo of VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Virginia
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Newport News, VA 23601  (Online Only)
I am board-certified to treat Children and Adults. Accepting new patients in Virginia via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make an appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurance plans.
I am board-certified to treat Children and Adults. Accepting new patients in Virginia via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make an appointment on our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups $99. Accepting some insurance plans.
(833) 338-0567 View (833) 338-0567
Photo of East Coast Telepsychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Virginia
East Coast Telepsychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN
Verified Verified
Lottsburg, VA 22511  (Online Only)
Hello, I am Amy Pharr, a Family Nurse Practitioner of 29 years and a Family Psychiatric Mental Health NP of 19 years comfortable with seeing clients of all ages with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, ADHD, Impulse Control Disorders, and PTSD. My ideal client would have some sort of trauma history - whether it be mental, sexual, physical, or emotional -- needing medication management and therapy. I see people in NY, FL, SC and Virginia. My clients want to be able to sleep, go about their day without flashbacks or affect from triggers, and to merely live with some sort of pleasure and "normalcy" in life.
Hello, I am Amy Pharr, a Family Nurse Practitioner of 29 years and a Family Psychiatric Mental Health NP of 19 years comfortable with seeing clients of all ages with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, ADHD, Impulse Control Disorders, and PTSD. My ideal client would have some sort of trauma history - whether it be mental, sexual, physical, or emotional -- needing medication management and therapy. I see people in NY, FL, SC and Virginia. My clients want to be able to sleep, go about their day without flashbacks or affect from triggers, and to merely live with some sort of pleasure and "normalcy" in life.
(843) 960-3155 View (843) 960-3155
Photo of Ocean Psychiatric Group, P.C., Psychiatrist in Virginia
Ocean Psychiatric Group, P.C.
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Ocean Psychiatric Group P.C, is a collaborative group of Neurological and Mental Health professionals who will serve your needs with competence, integrity and compassion. We are a group of individuals licensed in Psychiatry, Neurology, Clinical Psychology, Professional Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy, Clinical Social Work, Neuropsychological and Psychological Testing. Our practice is complemented by Prescribing Nurse Practitioners, Board Certified in Psychiatric and Family Medicine . We are committed to provide excellent patient care within our specialties, in a confidential and comfortable environment.
Ocean Psychiatric Group P.C, is a collaborative group of Neurological and Mental Health professionals who will serve your needs with competence, integrity and compassion. We are a group of individuals licensed in Psychiatry, Neurology, Clinical Psychology, Professional Counseling, Marriage and Family Therapy, Clinical Social Work, Neuropsychological and Psychological Testing. Our practice is complemented by Prescribing Nurse Practitioners, Board Certified in Psychiatric and Family Medicine . We are committed to provide excellent patient care within our specialties, in a confidential and comfortable environment.
(757) 799-4575 View (757) 799-4575
Photo of Stacey Lambour, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Virginia
Stacey Lambour
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leesburg, VA 20176
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and have a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) from the University of Virginia. I provide extensive psychiatric evaluation, ongoing individual therapy, and psychopharmacological treatment initiation and monitoring to individuals of all ages. My goal is to help you customize a plan that enables you to find lasting change. This plan may involve medication, therapy, or a combination of both. Ultimately, developing a collaborative treatment plan with you is the best way to meet your needs.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and have a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) from the University of Virginia. I provide extensive psychiatric evaluation, ongoing individual therapy, and psychopharmacological treatment initiation and monitoring to individuals of all ages. My goal is to help you customize a plan that enables you to find lasting change. This plan may involve medication, therapy, or a combination of both. Ultimately, developing a collaborative treatment plan with you is the best way to meet your needs.
(703) 844-9798 View (703) 844-9798
Photo of Inner Peace LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Virginia
Inner Peace LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
If I were to imagine my ideal client, they would be in search of support to heal, energize and become aware of their inner strengths. Such goals can be achieved at Inner Peace LLC by providing a safe space and building rapport. I actively listen to client concerns and customize an individualized treatment plan. I specialize in the treatment of individuals across the lifespan, serving adolescence to the geriatric population who suffer from mental illness. I desire to accompany my clients every step of their journey. My goal is to assist clients in growing from struggles, healing from pain, and moving forward in their lives.
If I were to imagine my ideal client, they would be in search of support to heal, energize and become aware of their inner strengths. Such goals can be achieved at Inner Peace LLC by providing a safe space and building rapport. I actively listen to client concerns and customize an individualized treatment plan. I specialize in the treatment of individuals across the lifespan, serving adolescence to the geriatric population who suffer from mental illness. I desire to accompany my clients every step of their journey. My goal is to assist clients in growing from struggles, healing from pain, and moving forward in their lives.
(804) 792-3412 View (804) 792-3412
Photo of Melissa Irwin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Virginia
Melissa Irwin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Poquoson, VA 23662  (Online Only)
Helping people suffering from depression, anxiety and mood disorders is my passion. If you are ready to explore adding medication to therapy, I can help you. My main goal is to help people live a better life, winning the battle against mental health stigma and illness.
Helping people suffering from depression, anxiety and mood disorders is my passion. If you are ready to explore adding medication to therapy, I can help you. My main goal is to help people live a better life, winning the battle against mental health stigma and illness.
(757) 330-8758 View (757) 330-8758
Photo of Maura Constance, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Virginia
Maura Constance
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MPH, PMHNP, FNP, BC
Verified Verified
Front Royal, VA 22630
I am a warm, compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner devoted to helping people overcome difficulties and thrive. I employ a humanistic approach that looks at the whole person to understand how elements in the past and factors in the present environment can contribute to your current challenges. I listen deeply and work with you to find the right mix of evidence-based therapies and medications to address your particular needs. I have a special interest in depression, anxiety, personality disorders, addiction issues, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
I am a warm, compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner devoted to helping people overcome difficulties and thrive. I employ a humanistic approach that looks at the whole person to understand how elements in the past and factors in the present environment can contribute to your current challenges. I listen deeply and work with you to find the right mix of evidence-based therapies and medications to address your particular needs. I have a special interest in depression, anxiety, personality disorders, addiction issues, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
(301) 392-7120 View (301) 392-7120
Photo of Lasting Serenity Telepsychiatry, INC , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Virginia
Lasting Serenity Telepsychiatry, INC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, MSN, CRNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manassas, VA 20110  (Online Only)
We understand that individuals in need of services may not always prefer the clinical setting. We are giving them the chance to talk to mental health professionals at the comfort of their homes through a secure HIPAA compliant telemedicine platform. Each individual is unique, therefore, each treatment plan is individualized and created for you, with you. We encourage your involvement to enrich understanding regarding your needs while rendering an empathetic approach to your care. Lasting Serenity Telepsychiatry brings a wide array of treatment modalities and depth of experience to provide the most comprehensive care to all clients.
We understand that individuals in need of services may not always prefer the clinical setting. We are giving them the chance to talk to mental health professionals at the comfort of their homes through a secure HIPAA compliant telemedicine platform. Each individual is unique, therefore, each treatment plan is individualized and created for you, with you. We encourage your involvement to enrich understanding regarding your needs while rendering an empathetic approach to your care. Lasting Serenity Telepsychiatry brings a wide array of treatment modalities and depth of experience to provide the most comprehensive care to all clients.
(571) 308-8243 View (571) 308-8243
Photo of Madeleine Wilson Hao, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Virginia
Madeleine Wilson Hao
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Reston, VA 20190
At NOVA Family Health, we are committed to understanding each client's unique circumstances and tailoring our approaches accordingly. Our ideal clients are motivated by a desire to engage fully in life, empowered by our comprehensive care strategies that combine medication management with practical, personalized interventions. They come to us not just to alleviate their symptoms, but to embark on a journey towards a more fulfilling and productive life, supported by a team that values their well-being and independence.
At NOVA Family Health, we are committed to understanding each client's unique circumstances and tailoring our approaches accordingly. Our ideal clients are motivated by a desire to engage fully in life, empowered by our comprehensive care strategies that combine medication management with practical, personalized interventions. They come to us not just to alleviate their symptoms, but to embark on a journey towards a more fulfilling and productive life, supported by a team that values their well-being and independence.
(571) 946-4476 View (571) 946-4476
Photo of Improve Life PLLC, Psychiatrist in Virginia
Improve Life PLLC
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Reston, VA 20190
Improve Life provides medication management, therapy, and wellness strategies to children 12 and older, pregnant mothers, young adults, and women anywhere in Virginia. We also diagnose and treat ADHD in men and women of all ages. Next day appointments are usually available (as long as you do the paperwork). Come improve your life with us with one of our two highly experienced psychiatrists and/or our in-house therapist!
Improve Life provides medication management, therapy, and wellness strategies to children 12 and older, pregnant mothers, young adults, and women anywhere in Virginia. We also diagnose and treat ADHD in men and women of all ages. Next day appointments are usually available (as long as you do the paperwork). Come improve your life with us with one of our two highly experienced psychiatrists and/or our in-house therapist!
(571) 496-8208 View (571) 496-8208
Borderline Personality (BPD) Psychiatrists

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.