Introduction

Each chapter in this part describes one of general treatment modules that form the basic structure of integrated modular treatment:

1. Module 1: Structure: establish a structured treatment process

2. Module 2: Treatment relationship: establish and maintain a collaborative treatment relationship

3. Module 3: Consistency: maintain a consistent treatment process

4. Module 4: Validation: promote validation

5. Module 5: Self-reflection: enhance self-knowledge and self-reflection

6. Module 6: Motivation: build and maintain a commitment to change.

Each module consists of multiple interventions. Together the six modules seek to maximize the impact of change mechanisms common to all effective therapies. These interventions are used throughout treatment regardless of duration, the theoretical orientation of the therapist, and individual differences in the patient's personality and problems. Later chapters describe how these strategies can be supplemented with specific interventions tailored to the needs of individual patients.

These general modules are designed not only to establish the conditions needed for effective treatment but also to bring about change by creating a treatment process that challenges many of the maladaptive schemas, cognitive processes, and relationship patterns of borderline personality disorder, most notably mistrust, powerlessness, unpredictability, and self-invalidating thinking.