Systematic treatment outcome studies and research on the structure and origins of the disorder are challenging many traditional ideas about the nature and treatment of borderline personality disorder. On the basis of this research, it is argued that a comprehensive treatment requires an eclectic approach that uses an array of interventions drawn from different therapeutic models that are delivered in an integrated and coordinated way. Such an approach conceptualizes treatment in terms of generic strategies designed to build an effective alliance and treat core self and interpersonal pathology and specific interventions to treat the various components of the disorder. It is also argued that there may be limits to the extent to which some aspects of borderline pathology can be changed. Borderline personality disorder is often a chronic condition that is best managed using a rehabilitation model.