Not too long ago, the treatment options for a Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) diagnosis were extremely limited and the general prognosis for the condition was anything but hopeful. BPD was considered a chronic condition that mental health professionals thought of as resistant to change at best and untreatable at worst.
Fortunately, over the past few decades, therapists and clinicians have attained a greater understanding of the disorder and made significant advances in treatment by employing multiple, comprehensive psychotherapeutic modalities.
There’s no denying that BPD is a devastating condition and that being diagnosed can be a frightening prospect. As with any personality disorder diagnosis, the concerns of what to do now and where to go from here can be overwhelming.
BPD treatment programs and therapists abound, but it is crucial (especially with a complex disorder such as BPD) that you and your family seek out facilities that specialize in treating borderline personalities. In many cases, long-term recovery from BPD can be achieved if the therapeutic approach is holistic and highly-individualized.
Finding Appropriate BPD Treatment
Below are a few things to look for when seeking help in dealing with a BPD diagnosis:
- Your BPD will be best addressed in a safe and supportive environment with therapists and clinicians who are experienced with BPD treatment.
- You should look for small group settings that are gender-specific, which are essential for positive interaction and emotional comfort.
- Look for a comprehensive BPD treatment program that is designed to treat each BPD patient as a unique individual rather than an array of symptoms.
- Effective BPD treatment will include Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), a skill training technique pioneered by Dr. Marsha Linehan, Ph.D., that is considered an indispensible component in treating BPD. Any program treating a borderline personality must have therapists who are experienced in DBT.
- To successfully treat your BPD, family therapy will also be important. An effective BPD treatment program should offer an opportunity for family members to become educated and involved in your recovery.
Today, there is more hope for people who have been diagnosed with BPD than ever before, thanks to a greater awareness and a deeper understanding of the disorder. Suffering alone with a misunderstood condition is no longer the fate relegated to one diagnosed with BPD. With the help of professional therapists and clinicians, your BPD can be effectively addressed and a lasting recovery can be achieved.
