Understanding and Treating Borderline Personality Disorder: A Guide for Professionals and Families is a concise, clearly written compendium aimed at reducing the confusion and isolation that confront families dealing with this disorder. Both scholarly and accessible to the lay reader, this work brings a balance of professional input and consumer and family experiences to provide much-needed information and encouragement. The 15 distinguished experts show that successful treatment is now a reality for families, discussing new epidemiological and pharmacological research, BPD in the context of trauma, and new treatments such as dialectical behavior therapy. However, the book also includes unique chapters on families and BPD, highlighting family perspectives, family support systems, and family involvement in treatment. At once highly instructive and eminently practical, this guidebook for patients, families, and professionals alike shows the progress that has been made in treatment and recovery. Above all, this groundbreaking book provides hope. It is an accessible must- read for BPD patients and their families and friends, and a valuable update for all mental health professionals.