Borderline Personality Disorder
BPD
“People with BPD are like people with third-degree burns over 90% of their bodies. Lacking emotional skin, they feel agony at the slightest touch or movement.”
Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is a mental health condition that affects approximately 1-2% of the population. Individuals with BPD may experience intense emotions, difficulties with interpersonal relationships, and a distorted sense of self.
The symptoms of BPD can vary widely, but may include:
Intense and unstable emotions, including anger, anxiety, and sadness
Impulsive behaviors, such as risky sexual behaviors, substance abuse, and binge eating
Unstable and intense interpersonal relationships, including idealizing or devaluing others
Distorted self-image, including feelings of emptiness, identity confusion, and a fear of abandonment
Suicidal thoughts, self-harm behaviors, or suicidal attempts
The causes of BPD are not fully understood, but may include a combination of genetic, environmental, and social factors. Some potential factors that may contribute to BPD involves childhood trauma, biological vulnerability (such as neurotransmitter imbalances), family history of mental illness or personality disorders, as well as invalidating environments (such as neglectful or abusive family situations).
I use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), a form of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), to help individuals manage intense emotions, improve relationships, and reduce self-destructive behaviors, such as self-harm or suicidal thoughts. DBT was developed specifically for people with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), and it’s grounded in the idea that some people experience emotions more intensely than others, which can make it harder to cope and respond in healthy ways.
In DBT, I focus on two main concepts: acceptance and change. The “dialectical” part refers to finding a balance between accepting things as they are and also working to change behaviors and patterns that cause distress. I validate my clients' feelings and experiences, while also teaching them new ways to think, behave, and respond to their emotions.
I help clients become more aware of their thoughts, feelings, and physical sensations without judgment, which is the foundation of DBT. By practicing mindfulness, my clients are able to stay present in the moment, reducing impulsive behaviors and emotional overwhelm. In addition, I focus on building skills to manage painful emotions or situations without resorting to harmful behaviors. Together, we explore techniques like self-soothing, distraction, and acceptance to help my clients get through difficult moments.
I also work with clients to better understand, identify, and manage their emotions. By teaching strategies for reducing emotional vulnerability and increasing emotional resilience, we focus on challenging intense emotional reactions. In terms of relationships, I guide clients in improving their communication and relationship skills, helping them learn how to ask for what they need, set healthy boundaries, and navigate conflicts without falling into extreme behaviors.
In DBT, I believe in building a strong therapeutic relationship where I offer both support and active involvement, guiding my clients to create meaningful changes in their lives. For those struggling with BPD, I’ve seen DBT be life-changing. By learning and practicing these skills, my clients can reduce the frequency and intensity of emotional episodes and develop greater emotional stability, leading to healthier and more fulfilling relationships.
