As a pervasive and complex psychiatric condition, Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is marked by patterns of impulsivity, splitting, erratic relationships, chronic feelings of worthlessness, and persistent emotional dysregulation.

 

Due to the unstable interpersonal tendencies of the disorder, the therapeutic relationship often experiences challenges. Behavioral health providers may struggle to establish rapport, maintain neutrality, navigate countertransference and boundaries, or avoid early or hasty termination. Trauma informed care for BPD allows for clinicians to ethically and effectively manage these challenges in treatment and referral.

 

Learning Objectives:

- Review current and previous diagnostic criteria

- Discuss new approaches in assessment and diagnosis

- Discuss considerations for differential diagnosis of BPD

- Explore necessities of family involvement in treatment

- Identify psychiatric comorbidities

- Identify ethical treatment and referral approaches