Bpd2, when my therapist first suggested I had BPD, i knew that she was unqualified to diagnose me, but the more I learned about the condition, I was convinced I was the archetype. So, I guess I don't think it's necessary either to have a definitive diagnosis, but perhaps if I do move to another therapist, I should seriously consider getting one.

I am ignorant as to the major differences between the multiple types of therapist. So a LCSW (maybe not the one I see) couldn't provide me instruction?

I have often felt my therapist was inadequate because I have desperately wanted someone more directive who guided my therapy, made sure we discussed everything well, forced me to talk whenever I preferred to sit quietly, etc. My therapist is good at making me feel warm and vindicated. And though I know I probably should find someone else, beyond being soooo attached to her, I do not want to restart the process of forming a connection to someone new and retelling all of the horrors of my past. It took me about 5 months not to hate my current therapist and about 9 months before I told her anything that truly haunted me.

Oh, and I no longer take medication because I believe it's not for me.