QUESTION:
Dear Dr. Heller,
I am working with a very treatment-savvy 16 year old female. Her physician has her diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder (which she frequently uses as an excuse to misbehave and avoid responsibility). I am suspecting that she has BPD. I wonder if you have any specific techniques that I could use or look into that might help. She has all of the staff infuriated at the residential center where I work .
Thank you - I am a licensed therapist.
ANSWER:
I'm very up front with BPD patients - explaining that the "trapped, cornered
animal" response in their brain is broken, and has epilepsy. I then go over the
symptoms and explain why they happen. I also tell them it's not their fault they have
the diagnosis, but they are 100% responsible for getting it under control. My goal is a
successful life in every area of life. I also explain how the medications work. These
actions are incredibly important.
The following pages may be of help to you:
http://www.BiologicalUnhappiness.com/AskDoc/q1.htm
http://www.BiologicalUnhappiness.com/20a.htm
http://www.BiologicalUnhappiness.com/dysphori.htm
