Borderline Personality Disorder and Addiction Treatment
Specialized dual-diagnosis treatment for co-occurring BPD and substance use disorder at Keystone Health Group in Los Angeles.
Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is characterized by intense emotional dysregulation, unstable relationships, fear of abandonment, impulsivity, and a fragile sense of identity. BPD and substance use disorder co-occur at very high rates — studies suggest that 50–70% of people with BPD have a lifetime substance use disorder. Substance use in BPD is often driven by attempts to manage overwhelming emotions. At Keystone Health Group, our treatment for co-occurring BPD and addiction centers on dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) — the evidence-based treatment specifically developed for BPD.
Why DBT Is Central to BPD Treatment
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) was developed specifically for borderline personality disorder by Dr. Marsha Linehan. DBT teaches four core skill sets: mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. These skills directly address the emotional dysregulation and impulsivity that drive both BPD symptoms and substance use.
Emotion Regulation and Substance Use
People with BPD experience emotions more intensely and for longer than people without BPD. Substances offer rapid — if temporary — relief from this emotional intensity. DBT provides alternative tools for managing intense emotions without substances, addressing the root driver of substance use in BPD.
Treatment Challenges and Approaches
BPD can make the therapeutic relationship challenging — intense transference, splitting, and crisis behavior require experienced clinicians. Our team is trained in DBT and in managing the therapeutic relationship with BPD clients in a way that is both boundaried and compassionate.
Signs & Symptoms of Addiction
Our Treatment Approach
Frequently Asked Questions
Is BPD treatable?
Yes. DBT is highly effective for BPD and has been shown to reduce suicidal behavior, self-harm, hospitalizations, and substance use. BPD is not a life sentence — with appropriate treatment, significant recovery is possible.
How long does treatment for co-occurring BPD and addiction take?
BPD treatment is typically longer-term than addiction treatment alone. Our inpatient program provides the foundation, and we coordinate ongoing DBT therapy in aftercare.
Start Treatment Today
Same-day admissions available. Our team is here 24/7.
Call 855-83-RENEW Verify InsuranceAll Drug Treatment Programs
← Back to Drug Treatment Overview
- ADHD and Substance Abuse
- Anxiety Disorders and Addiction
- Bipolar Disorder and Addiction
- Depression and Addiction
- DSM-5 & Substance Abuse
- Eating Disorders and Addiction
- Grief, Loss & Substance Abuse
- OCD and Substance Abuse
- Personality Disorders and Addiction
- PTSD and Substance Abuse
- Schizophrenia and Substance Abuse
- TBI and Substance Abuse
- Trauma and Addiction
Recovery is possible. We're here to help.
Same-day admissions available. Most insurance accepted.