Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) Assessment and Testing in Memphis, Tennessee for Children, Teens & Adults

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Athena Care Mental Health and Behavioral Health Services in Memphis, Tennessee

Athena Care Memphis provides comprehensive mental health care for children, teenagers and adults. Our multidisciplinary team of experts specializes in assessing and treating borderline personality disorder and other mental and behavioral health conditions. Unlike many mental health clinics, we’re in-network with most commercial insurance plans.

Living with the emotional rollercoaster ride caused by Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) can feel painful and exhausting. Athena Care can help you get back to living a more balanced and fulfilling life. Our comprehensive mental health services include therapy, medication management, intensive outpatient programs, TMS, and Spravato (esketamine). We also provide services for ADHD and other neurodevelopmental challenges.

When you’re struggling with mental health issues, we know how overwhelming it can feel to simply pick up a phone and make an appointment, much less to navigate health insurance coverage or coordinate different mental health services. That’s why we try to make the process as streamlined as possible. Our Athena Care clinic in Memphis, TN provides high-quality, comprehensive and accessible care in one convenient location. When you contact us, our care coordinators will address any questions or concerns you have and help you understand your health insurance coverage. Next, our team of multidisciplinary experts will collaborate with you to create a plan that best fits your needs.

What Is Borderline Personality Disorder?

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a mental condition in which a person experiences intense and unstable emotions and overwhelming insecurity and self-doubt. These issues are so extensive that they cause significant problems in the person’s ability to maintain healthy relationships and function in daily life. BPD can make everything about a person feel precarious—their moods, behavior, relationships, and identity.

If you struggle with BPD, you have probably experienced a self-fulfilling prophecy in which you intensely fear abandonment yet unwittingly act in ways that push people away from you. You may frequently experience strong emotions, feel easily offended and have trouble soothing yourself. On top of that, you may be prone to impulsive behavior. You may also struggle to see how your actions affect other people and be unaware of how others perceive you. Taken together, these qualities may discourage people from staying in a relationship with you, which reinforces your fears of being left alone.

As difficult as BPD can be, it’s important to remember that having the disorder is not your fault. It’s a treatable condition that often improves with help from a licensed mental health professional. A trained therapist can help you build coping strategies, gain awareness, practice stress management techniques and manage your emotions.

Common Causes of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) in Mental Health

Similar to many other mental health conditions, we don’t fully understand what causes borderline personality disorder. However, evidence suggests that it likely results from a combination of factors including genetics, environment and brain functioning that make a person vulnerable to developing features of BPD.  

• Genetics: Studies show that people who have a close family member with BPD may be at a higher risk of developing the disorder¹. 
• Environmental factors: People who experience traumatic life events—such as physical or sexual abuse during childhood or neglect and separation from parents—are at increased risk of developing BPD². 
• Biological and Hormonal Factors: Fluctuations in hormones (such as cortisol and testosterone) and other biological factors may influence the development of BPD. For example, some research suggests that abnormalities in the endocrine system may be associated with BPD³.
• Brain function: Research indicates that people with BPD can have structural and functional differences in the parts of the brain that control emotions and impulses. These areas may not communicate well with one another⁴. 

It’s important to note that BPD is a complex and multifaceted disorder, and its development is likely influenced by a combination of these factors. Additionally, not everyone with risk factors will develop BPD, and not everyone with BPD will share the same set of causes or experiences. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of BPD, it’s crucial to seek professional help for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Recognizing the Telltale Signs: Symptoms of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)

Symptoms of borderline personality disorder generally include having intense, unstable emotions and relationships and experiencing severe insecurity and self-doubt. These symptoms cause significant problems in your ability to function and maintain healthy relationships. However, it’s important to remember that symptoms may vary from person to person and change over time.

Symptoms of BPD include:

• A pattern of unstable and intense relationships, such as idealizing someone one moment and then suddenly feeling intense anger or dislike toward that person, sometimes known as “splitting” 
• Intense fear of abandonment
• Taking extreme measures to avoid real or imagined separation or rejection 
• Periods of stress-related paranoia and loss of contact with reality, lasting from a few minutes to a few hours 
• Rapid changes in self-identity and self-image that include shifting goals and values, and seeing oneself as bad or as if one doesn’t exist at all 
• Intense mood swings lasting from a few hours to a few days 
• Impulsive and dangerous behavior, such as reckless driving, gambling, unsafe sex, binge eating or drug abuse, spending sprees, or sabotaging success by suddenly ending a positive relationship or quitting a good job 
• Self-harming behavior or suicidal threats, often in response to fear of separation or rejection 
• Persistent feelings of emptiness 
• Difficulty trusting other people
• Inappropriate, intense anger or problems controlling anger 

Borderline Personality Disorder Testing & Assessment in Memphis, Tennessee (TN)

Athena Care Memphis offers assessment for borderline personality disorder (BPD) and other mental health issues. Typically, assessment involves a thorough evaluation by a mental health professional to establish the presence and severity of BPD symptoms and determine whether symptoms are part of BPD or another condition.

During the evaluation, a psychologist, therapist or other mental health professional will ask about your background, your current symptoms and the impact that your symptoms have on things that are meaningful to you, including your relationships, employment and other important areas of your life. Your clinician may give you standardized self-report questionnaires to further evaluate the presence and severity of your symptoms.

Your clinician will also ask questions to rule-out alternative causes or co-occurring mental health conditions that may contribute to symptoms that mimic BPD. Finally, the clinician will summarize their findings and provide specific recommendations for treatment.

How to Find a Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) Testing Center in Memphis, TN

There are many ways to find BPD services near you, ranging from soliciting recommendations from people you know to searching online. When you contact a person or center, ask about the specific services they offer, the professionals involved, referral processes, and whether they accept insurance. It’s also important to find licensed professionals with experience in BPD assessment.

• Contact your primary care doctor or your child’s pediatrician. They may be able to guide you on next steps or refer you to a specialist or mental health center.
• Mental health centers and clinics may offer diagnostic services for BPD. Contact local mental health professionals or community clinics to inquire about available assessments.
• Licensed psychologists and neuropsychologists may conduct BPD assessments. Contact local psychologists or mental health professionals, and inquire about their experience in diagnosing BPD.
• Use online directories and resources to search for BPD testing centers in your area. Websites for organizations that offer support for people with BPD may provide directories or links to local services.
• Conduct an internet search. The following are queries you can type into search engines to find BPD testing near you:

• “BPD assessment near me”
• “borderline personality disorder testing near me”
• BPD assessment clinic near me”
• “local resources for BPD assessment”

Does Health Insurance Cover Borderline Personality Disorder Testing & Treatment in Memphis, Tennessee?

Most health insurance companies cover BPD testing and treatment when specific criteria are met. In Tennessee, these companies include Aetna, Ambetter, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Tennessee, Cigna, TRICARE and UnitedHealthcare, among others. However, details like the types of services covered, the number of sessions allowed, and any copayments or deductibles, can vary widely.

Since your health insurance plan dictates the services your insurance will cover, it’s important to carefully review your insurance policy and pay particular attention to any information related to mental and behavioral health services. Additionally, it may be helpful to contact the insurance company directly or consult with the mental health provider’s billing office to confirm coverage details.

If you or someone you know is seeking BPD testing or treatment, reach out to the insurance provider to understand the coverage specifics and to find mental health professionals who accept your insurance. For borderline personality disorder testing and treatment services in Tennessee, call or text us at (877) 641-1155. One of our care coordinators will answer any questions or concerns you may have, walk you through your insurance coverage, and help you get the care you need.

Which Health Insurance Providers Cover Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) Testing and Treatment Near Me?

Many major health insurance companies cover BPD testing and treatment when certain requirements are met. These include companies such as Aetna, Ambetter, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Tennessee, Cigna, TRICARE and UnitedHealthcare. Mental health parity laws in many places require insurance plans to provide equal coverage for mental health services compared to physical health services but coverage can vary.

Since the services your insurance company will cover are largely dictated by your plan, it’s important to carefully review your insurance policies, paying attention to any information related to mental and behavioral health services. The most reliable method for determining your coverage may be to contact your health insurance company directly. If you’re seeking mental health testing or treatment in Tennessee and want to speak to someone about your health insurance coverage, one of our care coordinators will happily discuss it with you. Call or text us at (877) 641-1155.

How Much Does Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) Testing and Assessment Cost in Memphis, TN?

The cost of BPD testing can vary depending on several factors, including the specific type of testing, the provider’s fees, and whether you have health insurance coverage. If you pay out of pocket for a BPD evaluation, you might pay between $120 to $250. Here are some of the specific factors to consider:

1. Health Insurance Coverage: If you have health insurance, it’s beneficial to check with your insurance provider to understand the extent of coverage for BPD testing and treatment and clarify any copayments, deductibles, or coverage limitations. You also may want to find out which providers are in-network with your insurance plan. In-network providers have negotiated rates with the insurance company, which can result in lower out-of-pocket costs for you.
2. Type of Testing: BPD testing can involve various assessments, such as clinical interviews, self-report measures, and possibly psychological testing. The type and complexity of the testing will likely influence the overall cost.
3. Provider Fees: Providers often charge differing amounts for their services based on a variety of factors, including their degree (e.g., M.D., Ph.D., LPC, etc.), their location, their amount of experience and other considerations. If you’re paying out-of-pocket or using services not covered by insurance, it’s advisable to inquire about costs during the initial consultation.
4. Sliding Scale or Reduced Fee Options: Some mental health providers offer sliding scale fees or reduced fee options based on your income. If you have financial concerns, it’s worth discussing payment options with potential providers.

To get accurate information about the cost of BPD testing in Memphis, Tennessee, consider contacting mental health professionals or clinics and inquiring about their fees for assessments and related services. You may also want to ask about payment options, sliding scale fees, or any available financial assistance programs. If you have health insurance, contact your insurance provider to understand the coverage details for Borderline Personality Disorder testing, treatment and therapy cost. Also ask about any pre-authorization requirements and the extent of coverage for mental health services.

How to Schedule an Appointment for Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) Evaluation Near Me

To book an appointment for a borderline personality disorder evaluation at Athena Care Memphis, fill out the form below or call or text us at 877-641-1155. One of our care coordinators will talk to you about your situation, answer any questions you may have and help you navigate your insurance coverage.

To book an appointment at another facility, search for mental health professionals in your area who specialize in BPD or trauma-related services. This may include psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed therapists, or counselors. You may be able to message them through their website or find an appropriate phone number to call to book an appointment. It’s helpful to have your insurance information handy when you contact them.

Athena Care is in-network with most major insurance plans. Find out more about your insurance coverage by calling your insurance company or by contacting us below. One of our care coordinators can help you navigate your insurance coverage to get the care you need.

What is the Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) Screening and Assessment Process at Athena Care?

BPD assessment often involves a thorough evaluation by a mental health professional to establish the presence and severity of BPD symptoms and to establish whether your symptoms are part of BPD or a different condition. During the evaluation, your provider will gather information about your mental health history, experiences, and symptoms.

The components of a BPD assessment often include a clinical interview and self-report measures. During the clinical interview, a psychologist, therapist or other mental health professional will ask about your mental health history, your background, your current symptoms and the impact that your symptoms have on your daily life. Your clinician may give you standardized self-report questionnaires to further assess the presence and severity of your symptoms.

Your clinician will also ask questions to rule-out alternative causes or co-occurring mental health conditions that may contribute to symptoms that mimic BPD. It’s important to distinguish BPD from other disorders that share overlapping symptoms with BPD in order to guide the most effective treatments. Finally, your clinician will summarize their findings and make recommendations for treatment.

Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) Statistics and Facts in Middle Tennessee (TN)

According to the National Institutes of Mental Health, about 1.4% of U.S. adults experience borderline personality disorder⁵.

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) reports that nearly 75% of people diagnosed with BPD are women. They also report that men may be equally affected by BPD but misdiagnosed with depression or PTSD⁶.

Many people with a BPD diagnosis have co-occurring disorders such as depression, anxiety, substance use, and other personality disorders. Specifically, 84.8% of people diagnosed with BPD also had an anxiety disorder at some point in their lives. 82.7% had a mood disorder or episode and 78.2% were diagnosed with a substance use disorder at some time in their lives⁷.