Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), also known as Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder (EUPD), affects approximately 1% of the population in the UK, with 75% of those diagnosed being women. Despite the stigma surrounding this diagnosis, I have found working with clients with BPD to be deeply meaningful and rewarding. People with BPD bring remarkable attunement, sensitivity, and depth to the therapeutic relationship, making them some of the most engaging and reflective individuals I’ve had the privilege to support.

Attunement as a Superpower

One of the most extraordinary traits of my clients with BPD is their incredible attunement. They have an unparalleled ability to notice even the smallest nuances in tone, body language, or phrasing—whether in a conversation, an email, or a subtle pause. This level of emotional sensitivity, often born from a history of navigating complex relationships, is both a strength and a vulnerability.

As a therapist, I honour this superpower by being hyper-vigilant about my own tone, presence, and communication. I use my voice as an instrument, ensuring it conveys affirmation, understanding, and safety. By doing so, I aim to foster an earned secure attachment, where my clients feel seen, valued, and supported.

Looking Beyond the Diagnosis

While BPD (EUPD) is a part of a person’s identity, it’s just one segment of their whole being. Imagine a person as an orange—BPD is one slice, but the entire fruit represents so much more. My work goes beyond the label, focusing on the individual as a multifaceted human being with strengths, resilience, and a unique essence that deserves to be celebrated.

Society often misunderstands and heavily stigmatises BPD, failing to appreciate the incredible adaptability and courage it takes to navigate the world while living with this condition. Many of my clients have endured invalidation, trauma, and judgement, yet they continue to show up for themselves and for therapy.

Creating a Safe, Validating Space

In my practice, I prioritise creating a safe space that fosters trust and healing. This involves:

•Validation: Acknowledging and affirming my clients’ feelings, experiences, and stories without judgement.

•Safe Attachment: Modelling a relationship that is consistent, affirming, and grounded in empathy.

•Witnessing and Honouring: Bearing witness to their pain and celebrating their survival strategies and intrinsic worth.

•Empowerment: Helping clients understand that they are more than their diagnosis and supporting their journey towards self-love and acceptance.

Challenging Stigma

Living with BPD in a society that often misunderstands and marginalises this condition can be isolating. The stereotype of someone with BPD as “difficult” or “manipulative” is not only unfair but also deeply harmful. In reality, people with BPD are often deeply reflective, empathetic, and courageous.

My goal as a therapist is to challenge these misconceptions by holding space for my clients with compassion and respect. I strive to reflect back their strengths and resilience, helping them see the beauty in their sensitivity and emotional depth.

The Transformative Power of Therapy

Working with clients with BPD is transformative—not just for them, but for me as a therapist. Their willingness to engage deeply in the therapeutic process, to reflect on their experiences, and to build healthier patterns is inspiring. Therapy becomes a collaborative journey, where together, we navigate their challenges, celebrate their victories, and work towards a life where they feel empowered and valued.

Closing Thoughts

Borderline Personality Disorder (EUPD) is not the entirety of a person—it’s just one part of who they are. By creating a safe, validating, and empowering space, I aim to support my clients in embracing their full selves. It’s a privilege to walk alongside them on their journey towards healing, self-love, and greater emotional well-being.

If this resonates with you, I invite you to contact me for a free consultation. Let’s explore how I can support you in your journey. Visit my contact page to get started.

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