Borderline Personality Disorder: Common Factors In Effective Therapies With Dr. Robert Feinstein

In this episode, I interview Dr. Robert Feinstein, on his new book, Primer on Personality Disorders. In a chapter he authored in the book, he writes about the commonalities of effective treatments for Borderline Personality Disorder. Dr. Feinstein states that six major types of psychotherapy achieve around 70% effectiveness in the treatment of borderline personality disorders.

There are no conflicts of interest for this episode.

[kelley]

This was a fantastic podcast: concise explanations + examples. Thank you so much for this information and conversation.

[drina]

Personality disorders are on spectra. Acknowledge that fact. Do not box patients in. Not every patient fulfills the DSM-V's criteria for BPD and whatever they do have, is on a spectrum as well. Treat patients with respect, hear them out, praise them when they make progress, obviously acknowledge their progress, and don't invalidate their emotions. Teach them that they are just emotions, fleeting and not necessarily based in reality. Then patients will listen and learn and grow and get better. Also, tell them that they can get better. It gives them a goal; do the work and you will get better- type of thing. Patients will listen and work toward those goals.

[butterboy]

You ever consider doing a podcast with Cummings and just answering med questions for the whole thing? I think that would be a good one.

[taz]

I attend a therapeutic community - we have maximum 12 group members and 4 staff members. It works so well for me and is based around needs for those with bpd. Its life saving. Maximum is 3 years or up to 26th birthday. Wish everyone had this opportunity. Its so good

[drina]

Do not make assumptions about a patient. Look at them, their actions, reactions, etc.. Make your Dx based upon what you see and hear and take into account the environment of the patient. Because if the patient is being abused in any way, then that will affect them negatively. Don't have blinders on. And don't automatically make a Dx but take a little bit of time (even if you have an inclination about the Dx).

[alphadog]

What should be know & done is make eye contact & smile. That's valuation enough. Therapy second.

[drina]

And for goodness' sake--- DO NOT CALL PATIENTS HIGH-FUNCTIONING TO THEIR FACE!!! It can be misinterpreted as an insult. Just keep it in your notes. Acknowledge the patients' accomplishments such as getting a B.S. or getting into a Master's Program. Don't just say--- " you are high functioning". No. Patie ts worked hard to get there. To get that degree or that job. Just like everyone else. Acknowledge that fact.