Treatment of Borderline Personality Disorder

This chapter provides a summary of borderline personality disorder (BPD) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). Diagnostic criteria, prevalence, and the biosocial theory of BPD are reviewed. DBT provides a clear structure for the treatment of BPD using individual psychotherapy, group skills training, and telephone coaching. An overview of the treatment is provided, with particular attention to constructs added to standard CBT such as dialectics, validation, mindfulness, skills training, and the importance of consultation. This chapter also provides a case example to illustrate key aspects of DBT.