IFS for BPDInternal Family Systems Therapy for Borderline Personality Disorder Symptom Improvement

Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is a mental health condition that causes emotional instability, identity issues, relationship problems, and impulsive behavior. It affects a significant number of people, contributing to high healthcare usage, suicide risk, and long-term disability. Current therapies show some benefits, but they are limited and resource-intensive. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy in improving mental health in individuals with BPD. IFS therapy targets core issues of BPD such as emotional instability, shame, and self-fragmentation. The study hypothesizes that participants will show noticeable improvements in BPD symptoms and overall well-being. The study will recruit fifteen adults with a formal BPD diagnosis. Participants will receive weekly, one-hour IFS therapy sessions over approximately 12 to 15 months. The therapy will be delivered by licensed mental health professionals trained in the IFS model. Participants will pay a reduced fee for the sessions. The study will measure BPD symptom severity as the primary outcome, and secondary outcomes include changes in emotional instability, shame, self-compassion, relationship functioning, depression, anxiety, addictive behaviors, and overall well-being. Feasibility, acceptability, and safety of the therapy will also be evaluated. Data will be collected electronically and analyzed using statistical methods. The study is set to begin in early 2026 and conclude by the end of 2027, with data analysis and results dissemination planned for 2028.