Photo of Guerline Norbrun, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Massachusetts
Guerline Norbrun
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Brockton, MA 02301
Dr. Guerline Norbrun, DNP, PMHNP-BC, ARNP, AGNP-BC is an experienced board-certified nurse practitioner in psychiatry and primary care. She has been practicing in both capacities' inpatient and outpatient settings. Dr. Norbrun provides comprehensive and individualized care to all ages, social and cultural background with psychiatric disorders including ADHD, Asperger's, addiction, Depression, Anxiety, Panic disorder, Schizophrenia, schizoaffective, Bipolar, Borderline personality Disorder among others. Her commitment is to deliver comprehensive and impactful mental health care to her patients’ population.
Dr. Guerline Norbrun, DNP, PMHNP-BC, ARNP, AGNP-BC is an experienced board-certified nurse practitioner in psychiatry and primary care. She has been practicing in both capacities' inpatient and outpatient settings. Dr. Norbrun provides comprehensive and individualized care to all ages, social and cultural background with psychiatric disorders including ADHD, Asperger's, addiction, Depression, Anxiety, Panic disorder, Schizophrenia, schizoaffective, Bipolar, Borderline personality Disorder among others. Her commitment is to deliver comprehensive and impactful mental health care to her patients’ population.
(508) 422-5654 View (508) 422-5654
Photo of Day To Day Psychiatric Care & Wellness PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Massachusetts
Day To Day Psychiatric Care & Wellness PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Stoughton, MA 02072
I work with ages 6 to 75 and specialize in Depression, Bipolar Illness, Anxiety Disorders, Psychotic Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Aggression, Eating Disorder, and Post-traumatic Stress Disorder.
Dr. Jimmy Pacombe is a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He graduated from Regis College with his Doctoral in Nursing Practice. His goal is to alleviate your suffering and simplify your life through natural empathy, compassion, intuition, and the negotiation of appropriate treatments.
I work with ages 6 to 75 and specialize in Depression, Bipolar Illness, Anxiety Disorders, Psychotic Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Aggression, Eating Disorder, and Post-traumatic Stress Disorder.
Dr. Jimmy Pacombe is a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He graduated from Regis College with his Doctoral in Nursing Practice. His goal is to alleviate your suffering and simplify your life through natural empathy, compassion, intuition, and the negotiation of appropriate treatments.
(781) 462-9642 View (781) 462-9642
Photo of Francisca Ojei, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Massachusetts
Francisca Ojei
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Brockton, MA 02301
I've worked with vast ethnic groups, with people who suffer from chronic mental illness such as Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective, DID, Bipolar, Borderline personality disorder, Substance abuse problem, Anxiety disorder, ADHD, ADD, Social anxiety, Forensic patient, Anger and explosive disorder, PTSD, Autism, OCD, Dementia, and ETC.
As a keen practitioner, my journey to helping humanity began 11 years ago after graduating with my Bachelors in Nursing, I dedicated 5 years in serving underserved communities in urban and rural areas, worked in a pediatric facility and top Major Hospitals in Boston. Then I decided to complete my Masters in Nursing at Regis College 5 years ago focusing in internal medication. Mental health medicine caught my attention after working in a methadone and suboxone clinic. I further pursed my interest by working at SouthBay for over 2 years, now at Boston Neurobehavioral Associates for almost 2 years.
I've worked with vast ethnic groups, with people who suffer from chronic mental illness such as Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective, DID, Bipolar, Borderline personality disorder, Substance abuse problem, Anxiety disorder, ADHD, ADD, Social anxiety, Forensic patient, Anger and explosive disorder, PTSD, Autism, OCD, Dementia, and ETC.
As a keen practitioner, my journey to helping humanity began 11 years ago after graduating with my Bachelors in Nursing, I dedicated 5 years in serving underserved communities in urban and rural areas, worked in a pediatric facility and top Major Hospitals in Boston. Then I decided to complete my Masters in Nursing at Regis College 5 years ago focusing in internal medication. Mental health medicine caught my attention after working in a methadone and suboxone clinic. I further pursed my interest by working at SouthBay for over 2 years, now at Boston Neurobehavioral Associates for almost 2 years.
(774) 332-5563 View (774) 332-5563
Photo of Jessica Kolczewski, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Massachusetts
Jessica Kolczewski
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
Randolph, MA 02368  (Online Only)
Are you looking for someone who can both prescribe medications and be present and listen to your experience? I value the importance of combining therapeutic techniques with medication management. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, with 14 years of nursing experience. I treat a variety of patients, including those suffering from trauma, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, borderline personality disorder and suicidal or self injurious behaviors. On a part time basis, I have a "co-therapist" named Bella. She is trained as a therapy dog for the purpose of providing animal assisted therapy.
Are you looking for someone who can both prescribe medications and be present and listen to your experience? I value the importance of combining therapeutic techniques with medication management. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, with 14 years of nursing experience. I treat a variety of patients, including those suffering from trauma, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, borderline personality disorder and suicidal or self injurious behaviors. On a part time basis, I have a "co-therapist" named Bella. She is trained as a therapy dog for the purpose of providing animal assisted therapy.
(617) 208-4410 View (617) 208-4410
Diligence healthcare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Stoughton, MA 02072
Asperger's, addiction, Depression, Anxiety, Panic disorder, Schizophrenia, Bipolar, Borderline personality Disorder .
DHC is a multidisciplinary group providing a total and comprehensive outpatients behavioral health and psychiatric care to all ages. We recognize and appreciate our patients cultural, religious and social differences . We have a team of experienced staff, (doctors, NP, Therapist, etc) that are professional and sensitive to our patients individual differences, diagnosis and therefore offer care that is individualized using best scientific and evidence based methods that is suitable to every patient accurate diagnosis. we are currently accepting most insurance with no waiting list, and Weekend appointments are available.
Asperger's, addiction, Depression, Anxiety, Panic disorder, Schizophrenia, Bipolar, Borderline personality Disorder .
DHC is a multidisciplinary group providing a total and comprehensive outpatients behavioral health and psychiatric care to all ages. We recognize and appreciate our patients cultural, religious and social differences . We have a team of experienced staff, (doctors, NP, Therapist, etc) that are professional and sensitive to our patients individual differences, diagnosis and therefore offer care that is individualized using best scientific and evidence based methods that is suitable to every patient accurate diagnosis. we are currently accepting most insurance with no waiting list, and Weekend appointments are available.
(781) 404-3213 View (781) 404-3213
Photo of Hillary Woodworth, Psychiatrist in Massachusetts
Hillary Woodworth
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Lexington, MA 02420
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist offering both medication and therapy services for a variety of mental health concerns. I completed my residency training at Massachusetts General/McLean Hospital and am currently appointed as an attending psychiatrist and instructor at Harvard Medical School. In addition to treating common mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, and bipolar disorder, I have specialized training in the treatment of borderline personality disorder (BPD), as well as individuals with chronic gastrointestinal symptoms.
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist offering both medication and therapy services for a variety of mental health concerns. I completed my residency training at Massachusetts General/McLean Hospital and am currently appointed as an attending psychiatrist and instructor at Harvard Medical School. In addition to treating common mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, and bipolar disorder, I have specialized training in the treatment of borderline personality disorder (BPD), as well as individuals with chronic gastrointestinal symptoms.
(617) 798-9619 View (617) 798-9619
Photo of Goldline Health and Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Massachusetts
Goldline Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Attleboro, MA 02703  (Online Only)
We also specialize in treating depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, insomnia, schizophrenia and OCD.
Group practice that specializes in medication management. We are accepting new clients in RI, MA & CT. Our practice is a medication management practice that provides med management services to children, adolescents and adults with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, thought disorders and other psychiatric conditions. We are a group of 3 nurse practitioners who specialize in psychiatric treatment, we are caring, compassionate and great listeners.
We also specialize in treating depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, insomnia, schizophrenia and OCD.
Group practice that specializes in medication management. We are accepting new clients in RI, MA & CT. Our practice is a medication management practice that provides med management services to children, adolescents and adults with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, thought disorders and other psychiatric conditions. We are a group of 3 nurse practitioners who specialize in psychiatric treatment, we are caring, compassionate and great listeners.
(401) 337-7493 View (401) 337-7493
Photo of Renee M Garbitt, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Massachusetts
Renee M Garbitt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, C-NP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Lakeville, MA 02347  (Online Only)
At Grounded Interventions Psychiatric Services we offer treatment grounded in empirically supported strategies to address a dynamic set of behavioral health needs. Our approach is compassionate, individually tailored and aimed at reducing distressing symptoms while improving overall quality of life.​
At Grounded Interventions Psychiatric Services we offer treatment grounded in empirically supported strategies to address a dynamic set of behavioral health needs. Our approach is compassionate, individually tailored and aimed at reducing distressing symptoms while improving overall quality of life.​
(508) 886-3921 View (508) 886-3921
Photo of Dr. Lucy Muigai, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Massachusetts
Dr. Lucy Muigai
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP-BC
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01606
I am a dual board-certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Having started as an Educator, My Education and training Include a Master’s in psychology, a Master’s in Community and Public health, a Master’s in Family Nurse Practitioner, CAGS in PMHNP and a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. As a Doctorate prepared Psychiatric and Family practitioner, I draw on my knowledge of Nursing, Psychology, Community / Public Health and Education to advocate for and provide the very best solutions for those I serve. I'm glad to be welcoming new patients Via Telehealth and face to face. You can reach me via email /phone call.
I am a dual board-certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Having started as an Educator, My Education and training Include a Master’s in psychology, a Master’s in Community and Public health, a Master’s in Family Nurse Practitioner, CAGS in PMHNP and a Doctorate in Nursing Practice. As a Doctorate prepared Psychiatric and Family practitioner, I draw on my knowledge of Nursing, Psychology, Community / Public Health and Education to advocate for and provide the very best solutions for those I serve. I'm glad to be welcoming new patients Via Telehealth and face to face. You can reach me via email /phone call.
(774) 235-6883 View (774) 235-6883
Photo of Arnold Robbins, Psychiatrist in Massachusetts
Arnold Robbins
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MA 02139  (Online Only)
I provide comprehensive humanistic psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. I have a lot of experience and clinical know-how across many psychotherapeutic approaches. I am empathic and thoughtful and approachable. I am a Professor of Clinical Psychiatry at Boston University, and a Lecturer at Tufts . I am a sought after supervisor for resident psychiatrists and colleagues. I work with all age groups except young children. My web site (ArnoldRobbinsMD.com.} I am comprehensive in my evaluations and treatment recommendations. I am responsive to each patient's needs. I use cinema to illustrate important emotions.
I provide comprehensive humanistic psychotherapy and psychopharmacology. I have a lot of experience and clinical know-how across many psychotherapeutic approaches. I am empathic and thoughtful and approachable. I am a Professor of Clinical Psychiatry at Boston University, and a Lecturer at Tufts . I am a sought after supervisor for resident psychiatrists and colleagues. I work with all age groups except young children. My web site (ArnoldRobbinsMD.com.} I am comprehensive in my evaluations and treatment recommendations. I am responsive to each patient's needs. I use cinema to illustrate important emotions.
(617) 941-4131 View (617) 941-4131
Photo of Ellis Mace, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Massachusetts
Ellis Mace
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NPI
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02110
Ellis Marie Mace is an ANCC board-certified and fully licensed Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from Saint Louis University. Prior to becoming a specialized NP, she was a registered nurse for twelve years in psychiatry, medical-surgical, nephrology, and post-anesthesia care. Native to Alabama, she was raised with three brothers in a close community of friends while participating in theatre, piano, creative writing, and tennis.
Ellis Marie Mace is an ANCC board-certified and fully licensed Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from Saint Louis University. Prior to becoming a specialized NP, she was a registered nurse for twelve years in psychiatry, medical-surgical, nephrology, and post-anesthesia care. Native to Alabama, she was raised with three brothers in a close community of friends while participating in theatre, piano, creative writing, and tennis.
(617) 712-0173 View (617) 712-0173
Photo of Harmony Bay, Psychiatrist in Massachusetts
Harmony Bay
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Watertown, MA 02472
Harmony Bay is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
Harmony Bay is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
(617) 712-2798 View (617) 712-2798
Photo of Louisa Martin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Massachusetts
Louisa Martin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHCNS-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carlisle, MA 01741
Through active listening and thoughtful questioning I aim to deliver high quality compassionate care. As an adult psychiatric clinical nurse specialist I am focused on person centered holistic care. I have over 20 years of experience treating psychiatric disorders including anxiety, depression and ADD. I earned my BSN and MSN at the University of Pennsylvania in 2002 and have worked at both inpatient and outpatient setting. I provide psychiatric medication prescriptions and medication management. I also offer ADHD testing and treatment. I do not provide psychotherapy. I treat ages 18 and above.
Through active listening and thoughtful questioning I aim to deliver high quality compassionate care. As an adult psychiatric clinical nurse specialist I am focused on person centered holistic care. I have over 20 years of experience treating psychiatric disorders including anxiety, depression and ADD. I earned my BSN and MSN at the University of Pennsylvania in 2002 and have worked at both inpatient and outpatient setting. I provide psychiatric medication prescriptions and medication management. I also offer ADHD testing and treatment. I do not provide psychotherapy. I treat ages 18 and above.
(978) 515-6622 View (978) 515-6622
Jessica Kehoe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Quincy, MA 02169
Now accepting NEW clients! Our wait at this time is only one week due to our expanded hours and expansion of providers. Please call 508-296-0875.
Now accepting NEW clients! Our wait at this time is only one week due to our expanded hours and expansion of providers. Please call 508-296-0875.
(508) 296-0875 View (508) 296-0875
Photo of Mary-Ellen Meltzer PMHCNS, CST-S, Psychiatric Nurse in Massachusetts
Mary-Ellen Meltzer PMHCNS, CST-S
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHCNS-, BC, CST-, S
Verified Verified
Norwood, MA 02062
My name is Mary-Ellen Meltzer and I am an AASECT certified sex therapist, sex therapist supervisor, and a psychiatric clinical nurse specialist. I am LGBTQIAA and kink affirming. I work with couples and individuals who struggle with relationship and sexual health issues. I also work with clients who struggle with medical health issues including cancer and menopause. When you are struggling with sexual and /or relationship issues it can be hard to identify a therapist to help you make sense of what you are experiencing. You do not need to struggle alone. All genders, relationships and cultures are welcome.
My name is Mary-Ellen Meltzer and I am an AASECT certified sex therapist, sex therapist supervisor, and a psychiatric clinical nurse specialist. I am LGBTQIAA and kink affirming. I work with couples and individuals who struggle with relationship and sexual health issues. I also work with clients who struggle with medical health issues including cancer and menopause. When you are struggling with sexual and /or relationship issues it can be hard to identify a therapist to help you make sense of what you are experiencing. You do not need to struggle alone. All genders, relationships and cultures are welcome.
(781) 209-5408 x1 View (781) 209-5408 x1
Photo of Dorcas Adeyemo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Massachusetts
Dorcas Adeyemo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairhaven, MA 02719  (Online Only)
Living Hope Healthcare LLC - I see patients virtually through telehealth, a safe, secure, and convenient telecommunication platform. I provide evidence-based treatment options to maintain, improve, and restore the population's mental health. My goal is to attain excellence in mental health care as I help individuals and families to thrive and meet their mental health goals.
Living Hope Healthcare LLC - I see patients virtually through telehealth, a safe, secure, and convenient telecommunication platform. I provide evidence-based treatment options to maintain, improve, and restore the population's mental health. My goal is to attain excellence in mental health care as I help individuals and families to thrive and meet their mental health goals.
(508) 501-8965 View (508) 501-8965
Photo of Compassionate community Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Massachusetts
Compassionate community Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Np
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Marlborough, MA 01752
Eva is passionate about providing her patients with quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services, including mood disorders, depression, anxiety, sleep, insomnia, PTSD, substance abuse, etc. Eva possesses solid clinical skills, enhanced by her natural ability to build rapport with patients and families. She follows evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience and personal observation. She provides culturally sensitive, emotionally-focused, and person-centered care. Eva also Psychopharmacological prescribes and provides psychotherapy based on the Massachusetts Board of Nursing and ANCC guidelines.
Eva is passionate about providing her patients with quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services, including mood disorders, depression, anxiety, sleep, insomnia, PTSD, substance abuse, etc. Eva possesses solid clinical skills, enhanced by her natural ability to build rapport with patients and families. She follows evidence-based guidelines blended with clinical experience and personal observation. She provides culturally sensitive, emotionally-focused, and person-centered care. Eva also Psychopharmacological prescribes and provides psychotherapy based on the Massachusetts Board of Nursing and ANCC guidelines.
(978) 574-8851 View (978) 574-8851
Photo of David H. Brendel, Psychiatrist in Massachusetts
David H. Brendel
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Belmont, MA 02478
As a psychiatrist, executive coach, and philosophical counselor, I help clients confronting the stress that accompanies life transitions. As a psychiatrist, I diagnose and treat people with anxiety, mood instability, insomnia, and attention deficits. As an executive coach, I help clients manage work stress, overcome burnout, make career transitions, develop leaderships skills, and improve their overall functioning. As a philosophical counselor, I help clients attain deeper insight and fulfillment by engaging in self-reflection. In each role, I help clients handle stress, develop their core strengths, gain self-awareness, and achieve peak performance. This empowers clients to lead more fulfilled, joyful, compassionate, and productive lives.
As a psychiatrist, executive coach, and philosophical counselor, I help clients confronting the stress that accompanies life transitions. As a psychiatrist, I diagnose and treat people with anxiety, mood instability, insomnia, and attention deficits. As an executive coach, I help clients manage work stress, overcome burnout, make career transitions, develop leaderships skills, and improve their overall functioning. As a philosophical counselor, I help clients attain deeper insight and fulfillment by engaging in self-reflection. In each role, I help clients handle stress, develop their core strengths, gain self-awareness, and achieve peak performance. This empowers clients to lead more fulfilled, joyful, compassionate, and productive lives.
(617) 379-1452 View (617) 379-1452
Photo of Roma Estevez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Massachusetts
Roma Estevez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Welcome to Riverview Practice, a psychiatric concierge practice offering a range of personalized services. I aim to provide comprehensive support, including psychiatric evaluations, medication management, supportive therapy, second opinions, treatment plans, and referrals. I understand that decisions about medication – whether to start, continue, or discontinue – are deeply personal and can have significant health implications. Your well-being is my priority, and I am committed to guiding you through these choices with expertise, care and empathy.
Welcome to Riverview Practice, a psychiatric concierge practice offering a range of personalized services. I aim to provide comprehensive support, including psychiatric evaluations, medication management, supportive therapy, second opinions, treatment plans, and referrals. I understand that decisions about medication – whether to start, continue, or discontinue – are deeply personal and can have significant health implications. Your well-being is my priority, and I am committed to guiding you through these choices with expertise, care and empathy.
(413) 489-5543 View (413) 489-5543
Photo of EleMental Wellness Center , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Massachusetts
EleMental Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Worcester, MA 01605
We are accepting new Clients for In-Person OR Telehealth appointments for adolescents 12 years and older and Adults 18 years and older: Here at EleMental Wellness Center, we provide diagnostic assessment and treatment for broad range of psychiatric illnesses including but not limited to: Mood Disorders [Depression/Bipolar disorder], Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, Adjustment disorders, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia/schizoaffective disorder, Alcohol use disorders and Panic disorders.
We are accepting new Clients for In-Person OR Telehealth appointments for adolescents 12 years and older and Adults 18 years and older: Here at EleMental Wellness Center, we provide diagnostic assessment and treatment for broad range of psychiatric illnesses including but not limited to: Mood Disorders [Depression/Bipolar disorder], Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, Adjustment disorders, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia/schizoaffective disorder, Alcohol use disorders and Panic disorders.
(508) 213-9438 View (508) 213-9438

See more therapy options for Massachusetts

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.