Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) therapy in Sydney should be considered for this complex mental health condition. It’s marked by intense emotions, unstable relationships, impulsive behaviour, and a fragile sense of self.
Key Features of BPD
Borderline Personality Disorder Therapy in Sydney
Common symptoms of BPD include:
Fear of abandonment
Unstable or intense relationships
A shifting or unclear sense of identity
Impulsive behaviours
Self-harm or suicidal thoughts
Mood swings
Chronic feelings of emptiness
Difficulty managing anger
Dissociation or feeling disconnected from reality
A mental health professional can make a proper diagnosis after observing patterns over time. Although BPD can be challenging, many people go on to lead meaningful and connected lives with the right support and treatment.
In Sydney, several options for treatment are available. These include well-established models, like Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and newer approaches, such as the Conversational Model.
There is no single medication approved to treat BPD in its entirety. However, some people may be prescribed medication for specific symptoms like anxiety or depression. We recommend a personalised combination of therapies often works best.
Evidence-Based Treatments for BPD
Here are some of the most common therapy options available in Sydney:
1. Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)
Specifically designed for BPD
Combines individual therapy, group skills training, and phone coaching
Focuses on emotion regulation, mindfulness, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness
2. Mentalisation-Based Therapy (MBT)
Helps individuals understand their own and others’ mental states
Aims to improve emotional awareness and relationship skills
3. Schema Therapy
Identifies and changes deep-seated thought and behaviour patterns
Combines elements of CBT, attachment theory, and emotion-focused techniques
4. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Focuses on changing unhelpful thoughts and behaviours
Often used to treat co-occurring conditions like anxiety or depression
5. STEPPS (Systems Training for Emotional Predictability and Problem Solving)
A 20-week group program
Focuses on emotional regulation and behaviour management
Often used alongside other therapies
6. Good Psychiatric Management (GPM)
A generalist model that includes psychoeducation and case management
Can be delivered by therapists who are not BPD specialists
The Conversational Model – A Sydney-Based Approach
The Conversational Model is one distinctive approach to Borderline Personality Disorder in Sydney. It was developed by psychiatrist, Russell Meares and colleagues. This psychodynamic therapy focuses on the development of the self through meaningful conversation.
Core Principles of the Conversational Model
Early Attachment: Emphasises the impact of early trauma or neglect on personality development
Dialogue-Based: Healing takes place through attuned and genuine conversations between therapist and client
Sense of Self: Helps clients form a stable and coherent identity
Therapist Role: Provides emotional safety, attentiveness, and responsiveness
Emotional Skills: Uses techniques like mirroring, containment, and elaboration to build emotional awareness
Trauma Integration: Gently works through past relational trauma
Focus on the Present: Grounded in current experiences while recognising past influences
Structure: Usually long-term individual therapy, but can be combined with other methods
Why Choose the Conversational Model?
The Conversational Model is centred on relationship and emotional connection while other therapies can follow a structured, skills-based format. The Conversational Model can be particularly helpful for those who find it hard to trust others or have experienced attachment trauma.
This therapy is less commonly offered than DBT but is available through some Sydney-based psychotherapists trained in this model like Laura Wilson.
Choosing the Right BPD Therapy in Sydney
The best treatment depends on your personal needs, history, and preferences. Many people benefit from a combination of:
One-on-one psychotherapy
Group therapy
Family support or education
Mindfulness practices or creative therapies
If you’re looking for Borderline Personality Disorder therapy in Sydney, it’s important to work with a qualified therapist who understands the condition and offers a tailored approach.
Want to Know More?
Get in touch if you’d like to know more about how the Conversational Model compares to other treatments for BPD and how it can help you.
