John Gartner

Dr. John Gartner is a distinguished psychologist with a PhD and over 35 years of experience based in Baltimore. He specializes in the treatment of Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, and Depression. Acknowledging the profound benefits of meditation, he has thoughtfully integrated this powerful self-regulation tool into his traditional practice for the past decade. Dr. Gartner advocates for a balanced approach to mental health, believing that while medication is invaluable, there is often a trend in the field towards over-medication, where 'less is more' can be the key to recovery. He treats all forms of bipolar disorder, with a deep-seated interest in hypomania, a temperament frequently observed in creative and successful individuals. His insightful approach emphasizes gaining self-control while nurturing one's creative spark, a concept he explores in his book, The Hypomanic Edge: The Link Between (a Little) Craziness and (a lot of) Success in America. Borderline Personality Disorder, though challenging, is highly treatable, and Dr. Gartner is dedicated to providing specialized care. He has also spent 28 years teaching the treatment of BPD to psychiatric residents at Johns Hopkins, drawing on his advanced training under Otto Kernberg at Cornell University, whose influential work has shaped understanding of the disorder. Dr. Gartner's practice incorporates essential aspects of Dialectical Behavior Therapy, with a strong emphasis on mindfulness and meditation, creating a holistic and effective therapeutic experience.