Anonymous asked this question on 4/5/2000:
Can someone who was diagnosed with borderline personality disorder be a psychologist. I was diagnosed and am currently pursuing my Psy D in clinical psychology.
Imhere2listen_help gave this response on 4/7/2000:
In my opinion, and that is what it is, my opionion, that being borderline ( I am as well) may make the job more difficult ( by feeling the other's pain) bit I believe you have much more on the positive end of this question. Let's weigh it out, negitives, 1) can become too emotionally involved, 2) taking your work home with you, ( not leaving it at the opposite, being borderline can make you somewhat like a sponge absorbing the pain and hurt that the patients share with you. Now the positives, (people seem to forget these, especially "professionals" who think coldness is a plus) Quite a few Borderlines have been described as intelligent, loving, witty, and talented people who people feel comfortable talking to. Being "Borderline" is just part of who you are, you have a lot to offer,and I think that possibly being borderline, may make you a more understanding psychologist, and boy do we ever need that. You may find by relating to others problems, you will know a way to help your patients, more than a lot of others, because you have been there, and they have not. I think it's fantastic you are doing this. Have you ever stopped to think that even with BPD you are overcoming adversity to do something that will help others. If it were up to me, I would give you a standing round of applause for not letting it hold you back, and I think that once you get your diploma, you will be a welcome addition to the "professional community" for us who really need someone to understand what we go through. I wish you all the best, and again this is my opinion, if anyone tells you it's not good, well just look at the source, and see what may lie behind their reasons. I hope with all my heart, you attain your goal. The world will be a better place because you know of which you speak.
The average rating for this answer is 5.
Anonymous rated this answer a 5.