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The question was submitted 07/02/2008

Subject: Is paychodynamic therapy helpful for borderline personality disorder?

I would like to ask if psychodynamic therapy helpful for borderline personaity disorder? I cannot afford paying for private treatment in the private sector. Is IMH the only option?

I am a psychiatric patient from another hospital though I have a doctor in charge of me when I am sent to IMH for emergency inpatient treatment. Do I have to see my IMH doctor to get a referral to see a professional who specialise in psychodynamic therapy if I were receive that form of therapy there?

Answer from DepNet

Psychodynamic psychotherapy is a long and intensive therapy. The therapist will see the patient on a weekly basis. It is also charged a private rate in IMH as it is very labor intensive.

However the slots in IMH psychodynamic therapy are also very fully booked. There is a waiting list. And the therapist will need to assess patients whether they are suitable for psychodynamic psychotherapy before accepting them.

Do speak with your psychiatrist or psychologist to see whether they recommend you to do psychodynamic psychotherapy, as there are other forms of psychotherapy that may also be very helpful.
For example Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution focused therapy, Inter-personal therapy etc. You can find out the details of these from internet or ask your Doctor.

The answer was published on DepNet 07/03/2008