BPD is a mental health disorder that affects the way you think and feel about the yourself, others, and the world in general. It frequently causes problems with thoughts, emotions, behaviors, relationships, and self-esteem.
Some of the main indicators of BPD are fear of abandonment, patterns of unstable and intense relationships, unstable sense of self, impulsive behaviors, rapidly changing moods, anger issues, and recurrent suicidal behaviors (gestures, attempts, threats, and/or self-harm). Personality disorders lie on a spectrum meaning that you can have traits without meeting full criteria for diagnosis.
BPD is difficult to treat because rather than symptoms, its made up of characteristics which are not generally responsive to medication. Skills are the preferred treatment method.
Dialectical (the D in DBT) refers to a way of thinking. We often get stuck because we think in terms of either/or and extremes. Things are either good or bad, worthwhile or not, perfect or irredeemably flawed. This way of thinking is limited because it ignores the truth of other opinions.
Things are more often both/and. They are both good and bad, worthwhile and not, perfect and flawed. This way of thinking can help us get unstuck from extremes and able to work with others to find a synthesis to conflict, to find new ways of thinking about a situation, and to help validate ourselves and others.
Although DBT was created for BPD, numerous studies have shown it's effectiveness in treating a variety of mental health issues including other personality disorders, eating disorders, trauma disorder, ADHD, bipolar disorder, anger issues, depression, and anxiety.
The only criteria that must be met to be appropriate for DBT is emotional dysregulation. At Vitalize Therapy, anyone who is interested in this treatment modality is free to book a call to see if it is a good fit.
We recommend a full cycle of DBT for best results. This consists of 2 weeks of orientation and commitment and 24 weeks featuring different skills. Commitment and intentionality are a large part of why DBT is so effective and can create positive, long-lasting results. However, we recognize that life happens and individuals are sometimes not able to continue on with treatment. If this happens, there are options for treatment pauses, referrals, and even termination of therapy if needed.
As an out-of-network provider, I have partnered with Mentaya to help my clients save money on therapy. Use this tool below to see if you qualify for reimbursement for my services.
Mentaya's goal is to save you time and money. It's completely optional, and as your therapist I do not benefit in any way from your participation.
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