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Article
Accurately Diagnosing and Treating Borderline Personality Disorder: A Psychotherapeutic Case
Psychiatry (Edgemont)
  • Ashley Johnson, Wright State University - Main Campus
  • Julie Gentile, Wright State University - Main Campus
  • Terry Correll, Wright State University - Main Campus
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
4-1-2010
Abstract

The high prevalence of comorbid bipolar and borderline personality disorders and some diagnostic criteria similar to both conditions present both diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. This article delineates certain symptoms which, by careful history taking, may be attributed more closely to one of these two disorders. Making the correct primary diagnosis along with comorbid psychiatric conditions and choosing the appropriate type of psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy are critical steps to a patient's recovery. In this article, we will use a case example to illustrate some of the challenges the psychiatrist may face in diagnosing and treating borderline personality disorder. In addition, we will explore treatment strategies, including various types of therapy modalities and medication classes, which may prove effective in stabilizing or reducing a broad range of symptomotology associated with borderline personality disorder.

Citation Information
Ashley Johnson, Julie Gentile and Terry Correll. "Accurately Diagnosing and Treating Borderline Personality Disorder: A Psychotherapeutic Case" Psychiatry (Edgemont) Vol. 7 Iss. 4 (2010) p. 21 - 30 ISSN: 15505952
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/julie-gentile/26/