Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is marked by a pattern of instability in moods, behavior, self-image, and functioning. These experiences may also result in impulsive actions and unstable relationships. A person with BPD may experience intense episodes of anger, depression and anxiety that may last from only a few hours to days.
People with BPD may also feel angry and distressed over minor separations—such as vacations, business trips, or sudden changes of plans—from people to whom they feel close. Many people with BPD report experiencing traumatic life events such as abuse or abandonment during childhood whereas others may have been exposed to unstable relationships and hostile conflicts.
Dr. Rosenfarb uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help people with BPD identify and change core beliefs and/or behaviors that underlie inaccurate perceptions of themselves and others and lead to problems interacting with others. He also uses Family Focused Treatment (FFT) to help families of people with BPD. The challenges of dealing with a loved one with BPD on a daily basis can be very stressful, and family members may unknowingly act in ways that worsen their relative’s symptoms. Dr. Rosenfarb helps families develop skills to better understand and support a relative with BPD and helps family members understand the obstacles and difficulties of caring for a loved one with BPD.