Building a Strong Partnership in Therapy: A Guide for Working with Someone with BPD: Part One
Creating a meaningful and effective therapeutic partnership with someone diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) involves collaboration, clear communication, and mutual understanding. Here’s how both the therapist and the client can work together to foster trust and support throughout the therapeutic journey:
1. Therapist’s Role and Introduction
It starts with knowing who you’re working with. Knowing your therapist’s name and credentials is the foundation of trust-building. They can provide a clear understanding of the role of occupational therapy (OT) in your care, such as how they/ your will be supported in the theraputic process. This understanding will set the stage for what to expect throughout therapy.
2. Session Structure and Frequency
Decide on the frequency of sessions together. Will you meet weekly, bi-weekly, or more frequently during challenging times? This structure ensures consistency and accountability while providing flexibility as your needs evolve.
3. Therapy Location
Understanding where therapy takes place is essential. Is it at a private clinic, a community health center, or an online setting? Ensuring the location is accessible and comfortable will make attending sessions easier and reduce stress.
4. Getting to Appointments
Plan ahead for how you’ll get to your sessions. Whether it’s by public transport, a rideshare service, walking, or relying on a loved one, having a plan in place will make it easier to prioritize attendance.
5. Funding for Sessions
Explore how therapy will be funded. Does your healthcare plan cover occupational therapy, or are there other funding sources available, such as government programs or private payment options? Discussing this upfront helps eliminate financial stress during your journey.
6. Communication and Access to Your Therapist
Establish clear boundaries for when and how you can contact your therapist outside of sessions. For example, you might decide on email communication or specific office hours. Knowing this reduces uncertainty and ensures that support is accessible when needed.
7. Emergency Contacts
In the rare event your therapist is unavailable, identify who to contact in emergencies. This could be another healthcare provider, a helpline, or an emergency service. Having a plan creates a safety net and reinforces support.
8. Involvement of Significant Others
Discuss whether and how significant others will be involved in your care. Whether it’s a family member, partner, or trusted friend, clarify their role and level of involvement. Will they attend sessions, provide emotional support, or help with implementing therapy strategies? Their engagement should align with your comfort level and therapeutic goals.
Why These Steps Matter
Building a partnership based on trust and collaboration empowers individuals with BPD to feel supported and understood. By addressing practical concerns like location, funding, and communication, alongside emotional and relational aspects, the therapist and client can create a safe, effective, and meaningful path toward growth and healing. Having these areas discussed in one of your first sessions will help prevent any potential relationship ruptures. Your and your clients answers may also help repair any ruptures in your relationship.
If you’re starting this journey, taking these steps can ensure your partnership is both productive and nurturing. A strong therapeutic alliance is the foundation for meaningful progress in therapy.
Is there anything else you would add to this?
Stay tuned for part two to come.
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