Relationship Management Of The Borderline Patient

Book excerpt: This volume offers guidelines for managing the therapist-patient relationship during crisis intervention and longer-term therapy with patients who exhibit borderline symptoms. Since to do no harm is the primary goal of any therapist who encounters such a patient, an appropriate therapist-patient relationship is crucial; moreover, skillful management of this relationship can, in itself, be the most effective and safe treatment. The authors present a conceptual model, based on self psychology and interpersonal theory, for reframing the borderline symptoms and the therapist's reactions. Case examples demonstrate effective relationship management and therapeutic interventions.