Question

My daughters therapists recommended her to go to a group therapy with people who are dx as BPD for her anxiety issues. Now she is displaying signs of BPD and is a totally different person. Did her therapist make a mistake?

Answer 1

I can offer some general insights.

It's important to remember that therapists, like all professionals, are not infallible, and there can be different perspectives on treatment approaches. Group therapy can be beneficial for some individuals, but it might not be suitable for others, especially if the group's focus is primarily on Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) while your daughter's primary concern is anxiety.

Here are a few points to consider:

1. Communication: If you have concerns about the group therapy or if you've noticed significant changes in your daughter's behavior, it's crucial to communicate these concerns with her therapist. Open communication allows the therapist to understand your perspective and adjust the treatment plan if necessary.

2. Assessment: It's possible that the therapist initially thought the group therapy for individuals with BPD could be helpful for your daughter's anxiety, but it's essential to have a comprehensive assessment to ensure that the treatment aligns with her specific needs.

3. Misdiagnosis: The emergence of signs of BPD could be due to various reasons, such as a misdiagnosis or the presence of comorbid conditions. Again, this underscores the importance of ongoing communication and reassessment.

4. Treatment Plan: A treatment plan should be tailored to the individual's unique needs, and the therapist may need to adjust the approach based on how your daughter is responding to the current therapy.

5. Seek a Second Opinion: If you remain concerned or uncertain about the current treatment plan, consider seeking a second opinion from another qualified mental health professional.

Remember, therapists rely on the information shared with them and their professional judgment to create treatment plans. However, therapy is not always a linear process, and adjustments may be necessary as new information emerges or as the individual's needs change over time. Collaborative and open communication between the therapist, the individual, and their support network is crucial to ensure the best possible outcomes.