Transference-Focused Psychotherapy (TFP), has proven effective in treating Borderline Personality Disorder. It was developed by Professor Otto Kernberg, Director of the Personality Disorders Institute of New York.
This psychotherapy contributes to developing a stable sense of identity. It is based on modifying the primitive defence mechanisms activated in the therapeutic relationship, and that prevent the establishment of healthy affective patterns. At the beginning of treatment, the main objective is to reduce the most serious and self-destructive symptoms. Progressively, it helps the patient to gain greater control over their own emotions, to focus on reaching their life goals and to maintain more satisfactory affective relationships.
This treatment may be applied by psychiatric and psychological professionals who hold exhaustive training in the technique and who are accredited as specialised psychotherapists. The International Society of Transference-Focused Psychotherapy (ISTFP) is the international body responsible for granting these certifications.