The Applicability and Efficacy of Transdiagnostic Cognitive Behavior Therapy on Reducing Signs and Symptoms of Borderline Personality Disorder With Co-Occurring Emotional Disorders: A Pilot Study

Abstract

Background: Borderline personality disorder (BPD), which is highlighted by emotional dysregulation and high rates of comorbid emotional disorders, is one of the most challenging clinical conditions for mental health services in different communities. The Unified protocol for the transdiagnostic treatment of emotional disorders (UP) was designed to target common vulnerabilities across emotional co-occurring disorders. Objectives: The aim of the present study was to examine the preliminary efficacy of the UP in treatment of Iranian patients with BPD and comorbid emotional disorders. Methods: By the purposeful sampling method, 6 participants (5 females and 1 male) with borderline personality disorder (BPD) and major depressive disorder (MDD), which met the inclusion criteria, participated in a multiple baseline experimental single case study. Each participant completed the borderline personality inventory (BPI) and difficulties in emotion regulation scale (DERS) during 3 baseline, 8 treatment modules, and 1 follow up assessment session. The unified protocol was carried out for 16 to 20 weekly sessions. Optical analysis and reliable change index (RCI) were used for determination of statistical significance. Remission rate was also applied to measure clinical significance. Results: Results showed that the unified protocol (UP) was effective on reduction of BPD and depressive symptoms as well as increase of emotion regulation skills. Conclusions: The efficacy of UP was statistically and clinically significant in most of the participants. Results from this study provide preliminary evidence for the efficacy of the UP in the treatment of BPD with co-occurring unipolar depressive disorders in Iran, and provide additional support for the transdiagnostic approach in the treatment of emotional disorders.