Re-integrate You

Although the concept of cognitive therapy was developed decades ago, only recent studies analyzed its effects on borderline personality disorder (BPD).

A recent study published in the journal Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy examines a natural therapy for BPD known as cognitive analytic therapy (CAT). Delivered under typical care conditions, the study set to measure the effectiveness of CAT on BPD patients.

The US National Library of Medicine defines borderline personality disorder as a condition harboring unstable and turbulent emotions regarding oneself or another causing the person to act impulsively and create chaotic relationships.

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Nineteen BPD patients sought treatment from ten cognitive analytical therapists at six separate sites. Patients underwent 24 sessions with four additional follow-up appointments with consistent treatment among patients. At the third follow-up, interviews of each patient assessed overall change.

A 90 percent compliance rate with treatments and follow-ups, psychological distress decreased as personality integration tightened up. Whereas distress saw persistent reductions early in treatment, personal integration typically increased post-treatment.

Most importantly, lead author of the study Stephen Kellett, PhD, and psychology professor at the University of Sheffield notes: "Patients tended to attribute change to the therapy received." With clinical reductions and positive patient feedback, consider asking your doctor about cognitive therapies for bipolar disorder.

Cognitive therapies help patients fight through dysfunctional thinking and the behavior that follows. It involves developing new thoughts by understanding and developing individual belief systems, culminating in developed behavioral and emotional responses. The treatments are noninvasive and tailored to individuals.