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Strategies for Securing Commitment to Treatment from Individuals Diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder

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Abstract

Individuals diagnosed with borderline personality disorder (BPD) are notoriously difficult to engage in treatment. The purpose of this paper is to highlight therapeutic strategies that are likely to facilitate early alliance in therapy with individuals diagnosed with BPD. The seven strategies include, collaborative assessment, the use of contracts, motivational interviewing, linking treatment targets to client goals, commitment strategies, validation, and the use of metaphors. Clinical vignettes are presented to elucidate the concepts described and demonstrate their use in clinical practice.

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Ben-Porath, D.D. Strategies for Securing Commitment to Treatment from Individuals Diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder. Journal of Contemporary Psychotherapy 34, 247–263 (2004). https://doi.org/10.1023/B:JOCP.0000036633.76742.0b

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