Personality Disorders Therapists in Ottawa, ON

Photo of Linda Rombough, Registered Psychotherapist, M Ed, RP, CCC
Linda Rombough
Registered Psychotherapist, M Ed, RP, CCC
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2G
My ideal client faces overwhelming life transitions—caring for aging parents, trauma recovery, or chronic emotional dysregulation. They struggle with deep-seated issues like estrangement, BPD, depression, and anxiety. They seek a compassionate, expert guide to manage emotions, heal relationships, and find meaning. They aim to overcome these challenges, build resilience, and create a fulfilling life. They turn to therapy to reconnect with their inner strength and confidently navigate life’s complexities.
My ideal client faces overwhelming life transitions—caring for aging parents, trauma recovery, or chronic emotional dysregulation. They struggle with deep-seated issues like estrangement, BPD, depression, and anxiety. They seek a compassionate, expert guide to manage emotions, heal relationships, and find meaning. They aim to overcome these challenges, build resilience, and create a fulfilling life. They turn to therapy to reconnect with their inner strength and confidently navigate life’s complexities.
(343) 700-3669 View (343) 700-3669
Photo of Stephanie Edmonds, Registered Nurse Psychotherapist, RN, BScN, CPMHN
Stephanie Edmonds
Registered Nurse Psychotherapist, RN, BScN, CPMHN
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1G
I can help those that have forms of depression, anxiety, PTSD, and personality disorders that have been difficult to treat.
Ready for therapy that goes beyond just talking? I'm here to offer a different path. Before becoming a psychotherapist, I spent years as a Registered Nurse in the high-stakes environments of the ICU and Emergency Room. This experience taught me how to stay grounded in a crisis and gave me a deep, practical understanding of how our nervous systems respond to stress and trauma. My approach is active, collaborative, and tailored to you. I don't just listen; I provide you with concrete tools and powerful therapeutic modalities to help you create profound and lasting change.
I can help those that have forms of depression, anxiety, PTSD, and personality disorders that have been difficult to treat.
Ready for therapy that goes beyond just talking? I'm here to offer a different path. Before becoming a psychotherapist, I spent years as a Registered Nurse in the high-stakes environments of the ICU and Emergency Room. This experience taught me how to stay grounded in a crisis and gave me a deep, practical understanding of how our nervous systems respond to stress and trauma. My approach is active, collaborative, and tailored to you. I don't just listen; I provide you with concrete tools and powerful therapeutic modalities to help you create profound and lasting change.
(343) 800-1885 View (343) 800-1885
Photo of Joshua Peters, Registered Psychotherapist, PsyD, RP
Joshua Peters
Registered Psychotherapist, PsyD, RP
3 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P
Are you an individual or couple who is struggling with emotional distress related to anxiety, stress, anger, depression or grief? Without proper support processing difficult emotions can be challenging. I can help you to get at the 'roots' of your distress as well as help you to become in touch with the concerns, goals, and needs that underlie your experiences. I also work with clients to address issues related to self and identity as well as clients who have faced attachment trauma or traumatic experiences that have altered their sense of self, others and the world around them.
Are you an individual or couple who is struggling with emotional distress related to anxiety, stress, anger, depression or grief? Without proper support processing difficult emotions can be challenging. I can help you to get at the 'roots' of your distress as well as help you to become in touch with the concerns, goals, and needs that underlie your experiences. I also work with clients to address issues related to self and identity as well as clients who have faced attachment trauma or traumatic experiences that have altered their sense of self, others and the world around them.
(855) 434-4760 View (855) 434-4760
Photo of Ryan Salter - Ryan Salter Online Couples Therapy, Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Ryan Salter Online Couples Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Online Only
Partnerships can be tough. It's hard to think clearly when our relationship with the most important person in our life is going badly. Emotions can get intense - hurt, anger, sadness, or betrayal can overwhelm us. We become preoccupied, and our social lives, work, and family life can suffer. We can get lost in some pretty horrible stories about ourselves or are partners, and when we're lost it can feel impossible to get out. The science of attachment offers a clear lens to understand these challenging behaviours and feelings, and pathways out.
Partnerships can be tough. It's hard to think clearly when our relationship with the most important person in our life is going badly. Emotions can get intense - hurt, anger, sadness, or betrayal can overwhelm us. We become preoccupied, and our social lives, work, and family life can suffer. We can get lost in some pretty horrible stories about ourselves or are partners, and when we're lost it can feel impossible to get out. The science of attachment offers a clear lens to understand these challenging behaviours and feelings, and pathways out.
(343) 501-3886 View (343) 501-3886
Photo of Megan Campbell, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, RYT
Megan Campbell
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, RYT
2 Endorsed
Online Only
What happened to you matters, but so does what happens next. Maybe you look "fine" on the outside but don't feel that way on the inside. You might be thriving in some ways while struggling deeply in others. You're successful and still feel completely overwhelmed. You appear to be keeping it together while quietly wondering how much longer you can manage the weight you’re carrying. If this sounds familiar, you are not alone. I offer a grounded, compassionate space where evidence-based therapy meets soulful, trauma-informed care to help WOMEN not just cope, but connect with meaning, safety, and self-understanding.
What happened to you matters, but so does what happens next. Maybe you look "fine" on the outside but don't feel that way on the inside. You might be thriving in some ways while struggling deeply in others. You're successful and still feel completely overwhelmed. You appear to be keeping it together while quietly wondering how much longer you can manage the weight you’re carrying. If this sounds familiar, you are not alone. I offer a grounded, compassionate space where evidence-based therapy meets soulful, trauma-informed care to help WOMEN not just cope, but connect with meaning, safety, and self-understanding.
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Photo of Dr. Mahin Tavakoli, Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Dr. Mahin Tavakoli
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Ottawa, ON K1R
I am a Clinical Psychologist, fully registered by the College of Psychologists of Ontario. I provide assessment, psychodiagnosis, counselling, and psychotherapy services to individuals with a variety of psychological needs. My areas of expertise include: Depression, Anxiety, Adjustment to Life Changes, Emotion Regulation, Family of Origin Issues, Identity Issues, Interpersonal Problems, Panic, Phobias, Premarital Counselling, Procrastination, Self-Esteem, Stress/Coping, Trauma, Workplace Issues, Immigrant Issues, Culturally Sensitive Assessment & Psychotherapy.
I am a Clinical Psychologist, fully registered by the College of Psychologists of Ontario. I provide assessment, psychodiagnosis, counselling, and psychotherapy services to individuals with a variety of psychological needs. My areas of expertise include: Depression, Anxiety, Adjustment to Life Changes, Emotion Regulation, Family of Origin Issues, Identity Issues, Interpersonal Problems, Panic, Phobias, Premarital Counselling, Procrastination, Self-Esteem, Stress/Coping, Trauma, Workplace Issues, Immigrant Issues, Culturally Sensitive Assessment & Psychotherapy.
(613) 209-0600 View (613) 209-0600
Photo of Wei-Hao Wu, Registered Psychotherapist, BEd, MEd, RP
Wei-Hao Wu
Registered Psychotherapist, BEd, MEd, RP
7 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P
I work with clients facing challenges stemming from early-year adverse experiences, including Complex Trauma (childhood trauma, relational trauma), C-PTSD, Narcissistic, Borderline, and Schizoid Personalities, Depression, Anxiety, Self-esteem, Relationship/Attachment Issues, and so on.
In my view, psychotherapy isn’t just about “fixing things" or "reducing symptoms." The ultimate goal of psychotherapy is to bring about psychological change, which is beyond What we "do.” When working with clients, I don’t rush or effort to get somewhere. If we go too fast and try too hard to achieve something, we will miss things that potentially can bring us learning about ourselves and opportunities for change. I use the NeuroAffective Relational Model (NARM) as the primary framework, which allows us to slow things down, exploring your heart’s desire and obstacles in the way of connecting to yourself and others.
I work with clients facing challenges stemming from early-year adverse experiences, including Complex Trauma (childhood trauma, relational trauma), C-PTSD, Narcissistic, Borderline, and Schizoid Personalities, Depression, Anxiety, Self-esteem, Relationship/Attachment Issues, and so on.
In my view, psychotherapy isn’t just about “fixing things" or "reducing symptoms." The ultimate goal of psychotherapy is to bring about psychological change, which is beyond What we "do.” When working with clients, I don’t rush or effort to get somewhere. If we go too fast and try too hard to achieve something, we will miss things that potentially can bring us learning about ourselves and opportunities for change. I use the NeuroAffective Relational Model (NARM) as the primary framework, which allows us to slow things down, exploring your heart’s desire and obstacles in the way of connecting to yourself and others.
(343) 655-3362 View (343) 655-3362
Photo of Roxana Manoiu, Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Roxana Manoiu
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My therapeutic scope includes working with anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, interpersonal issues, personality disorders, grief, and sexuality.
Accepting new clients starting April 2024 - I recognize that it takes a lot of courage to make the first step to reach out, and for that, I congratulate you. In working together, I invite you to discover yourself, empower you to process any wounded parts of your past, reach your goals, in a safe, secure and non-judgmental space. Through my work as a crisis counsellor, I have had the opportunity of working with survivors of Intimate-Partner Violence, complex grief and trauma, and tragic circumstances, in addition to providing support to first responders.
My therapeutic scope includes working with anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, interpersonal issues, personality disorders, grief, and sexuality.
Accepting new clients starting April 2024 - I recognize that it takes a lot of courage to make the first step to reach out, and for that, I congratulate you. In working together, I invite you to discover yourself, empower you to process any wounded parts of your past, reach your goals, in a safe, secure and non-judgmental space. Through my work as a crisis counsellor, I have had the opportunity of working with survivors of Intimate-Partner Violence, complex grief and trauma, and tragic circumstances, in addition to providing support to first responders.
(343) 700-6090 View (343) 700-6090
Photo of Zoubida Maallah - Third Wave Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist, RP, CCC, MEd
Third Wave Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, CCC, MEd
Ottawa, ON K1N
Our professionals specialize in helping people who may be struggling with trauma, mood disorders, personality disorders as well as sexual and relationship challenges.
At Third Wave Psychotherapy, we're dedicated to providing personalized and effective therapy for a wide range of mental health challenges. Our specialized expertise encompasses Trauma, Mood Disorders, Self Esteem, ADHD, and Relationship Challenges. No matter what you're facing, we're here to support you on your path to healing and growth. Your mental health journey is important, and you don't have to navigate it alone. Whether you're struggling with trauma, life transitions, relationship issues, or any other challenge, Third Wave Psychotherapy is here to help. Take the first step towards healing and schedule a consultation today.
Our professionals specialize in helping people who may be struggling with trauma, mood disorders, personality disorders as well as sexual and relationship challenges.
At Third Wave Psychotherapy, we're dedicated to providing personalized and effective therapy for a wide range of mental health challenges. Our specialized expertise encompasses Trauma, Mood Disorders, Self Esteem, ADHD, and Relationship Challenges. No matter what you're facing, we're here to support you on your path to healing and growth. Your mental health journey is important, and you don't have to navigate it alone. Whether you're struggling with trauma, life transitions, relationship issues, or any other challenge, Third Wave Psychotherapy is here to help. Take the first step towards healing and schedule a consultation today.
(343) 801-1376 View (343) 801-1376
Photo of Wei-Hao Wu - First Step Men's Therapy - (Now Direct Billing), Registered Psychotherapist
First Step Men's Therapy - (Now Direct Billing)
Registered Psychotherapist
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P
Our specializations include: Borderline Personality, grief, life transitions, alcohol use, Narcissistic Personality, trauma, OCD, ADHD, behavioural issues, anger management, chronic impulsivity, anxiety, infidelity, depression, dual diagnosis, and men's issues.
Men often face pressure to suppress their emotions, making therapy a courageous act of defiance. As a therapist, I specialize in guiding men through reconnecting with their emotions and inner selves. Many men seek deeper connections and understanding, aiming to enhance relationships and daily life. No matter what you are struggling with, my goal is to help you understand your underlying motivations and develop healthier coping mechanisms. With a focus on avoidant attachment styles, I provide a safe space for exploration and empowerment, aiming to shift patterns and foster self-discovery. Book a free 20-minute consult to learn more!
Our specializations include: Borderline Personality, grief, life transitions, alcohol use, Narcissistic Personality, trauma, OCD, ADHD, behavioural issues, anger management, chronic impulsivity, anxiety, infidelity, depression, dual diagnosis, and men's issues.
Men often face pressure to suppress their emotions, making therapy a courageous act of defiance. As a therapist, I specialize in guiding men through reconnecting with their emotions and inner selves. Many men seek deeper connections and understanding, aiming to enhance relationships and daily life. No matter what you are struggling with, my goal is to help you understand your underlying motivations and develop healthier coping mechanisms. With a focus on avoidant attachment styles, I provide a safe space for exploration and empowerment, aiming to shift patterns and foster self-discovery. Book a free 20-minute consult to learn more!
(343) 633-2702 View (343) 633-2702
Photo of Karin Klassen - DBT Karin Klassen R Psych, Psychologist, MSc, MPhil
DBT Karin Klassen R Psych
Psychologist, MSc, MPhil
Online Only
The focus of my practice is to treat people who have emotional dysregulation - stress! This can be due to a mood or personality disorder, chronic pain, trauma or complex trauma, military service, or a major life transition. I use practical, evidence based therapies such as DBT (Dialectical Behavioural Therapy), ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Clinical Hypnosis, and CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) to help you fulfill your goals, getting back to living a meaningful, peaceful, productive life. One focus of my practice is treating current military members and veterans.
The focus of my practice is to treat people who have emotional dysregulation - stress! This can be due to a mood or personality disorder, chronic pain, trauma or complex trauma, military service, or a major life transition. I use practical, evidence based therapies such as DBT (Dialectical Behavioural Therapy), ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Clinical Hypnosis, and CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) to help you fulfill your goals, getting back to living a meaningful, peaceful, productive life. One focus of my practice is treating current military members and veterans.
(902) 809-7792 View (902) 809-7792
Photo of Scott R Bishop, Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Scott R Bishop
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Serves Area
Returning to Halifax after 30+ years as a well-regarded psychologist, psychoanalyst, and educator at Canada’s top institutions, I help adults navigate trauma, mood and anxiety disorders, personality challenges, relationship struggles, and stress. I combine expertise with compassion, guiding people to insight, resilience, and lasting change through psychotherapy tailored to your unique personality and needs.
Returning to Halifax after 30+ years as a well-regarded psychologist, psychoanalyst, and educator at Canada’s top institutions, I help adults navigate trauma, mood and anxiety disorders, personality challenges, relationship struggles, and stress. I combine expertise with compassion, guiding people to insight, resilience, and lasting change through psychotherapy tailored to your unique personality and needs.
(902) 510-3043 View (902) 510-3043
Photo of Andrew Robert Spice - The DBT Clinic, Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
The DBT Clinic
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Online Only
People who benefit from DBT often struggle with Borderline Personality Disorder, suicidal thoughts or suicidal behaviour, self-harm, intense negative emotions, impulsive behaviours, substance abuse, anger management, relationship difficulties, chronic feelings of emptiness, and eating disorders, among other possible problems. Our team is dedicated to helping clients who struggle with their emotions to achieve less suffering and greater peace, and to build the lives they want to live.
People who benefit from DBT often struggle with Borderline Personality Disorder, suicidal thoughts or suicidal behaviour, self-harm, intense negative emotions, impulsive behaviours, substance abuse, anger management, relationship difficulties, chronic feelings of emptiness, and eating disorders, among other possible problems. Our team is dedicated to helping clients who struggle with their emotions to achieve less suffering and greater peace, and to build the lives they want to live.
(437) 747-5175 View (437) 747-5175
Photo of Rebekah Kunica, Registered Psychotherapist, BSW, MDiv, ADHD-CC
Rebekah Kunica
Registered Psychotherapist, BSW, MDiv, ADHD-CC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am passionate about supporting adults who struggle with ADHD, substance use disorders and other addiction, anger and personality disorders (such as Borderline Personality Disorder).
Many of us have become masters in pretending that things are fine, when in reality our lives seem to be falling apart. Inside we feel like we’re drowning: overwhelmed by emotion, lost, & hopeless as we try to carry the burden of unresolved trauma, pain, & life’s curveballs hurled our way. Pushing aside these problems to get through each day to manage life’s responsibilities, we find ourselves numb, depressed, anxious, self-medicating, isolating, angry, & struggling with relationships. Together, we can work towards confronting unhealthy behaviours, understanding emotions, & healing from past trauma to create transformational change.
I am passionate about supporting adults who struggle with ADHD, substance use disorders and other addiction, anger and personality disorders (such as Borderline Personality Disorder).
Many of us have become masters in pretending that things are fine, when in reality our lives seem to be falling apart. Inside we feel like we’re drowning: overwhelmed by emotion, lost, & hopeless as we try to carry the burden of unresolved trauma, pain, & life’s curveballs hurled our way. Pushing aside these problems to get through each day to manage life’s responsibilities, we find ourselves numb, depressed, anxious, self-medicating, isolating, angry, & struggling with relationships. Together, we can work towards confronting unhealthy behaviours, understanding emotions, & healing from past trauma to create transformational change.
(289) 301-8240 View (289) 301-8240
Photo of Lauren Shaw, Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MACP
Lauren Shaw
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MACP
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Do you feel lost, misunderstood, or disconnected? Ever feel like you just can’t turn your thoughts off? Do you find yourself questioning every choice you’ve made? If this sounds familiar, you are not alone. Let’s work together to untangle all of the ‘what if’s’, ‘I should’ve done betters’, or whatever thought it may be that keeps you up at night. You deserve to feel confident and compassionate towards yourself.
Do you feel lost, misunderstood, or disconnected? Ever feel like you just can’t turn your thoughts off? Do you find yourself questioning every choice you’ve made? If this sounds familiar, you are not alone. Let’s work together to untangle all of the ‘what if’s’, ‘I should’ve done betters’, or whatever thought it may be that keeps you up at night. You deserve to feel confident and compassionate towards yourself.
(548) 639-1380 View (548) 639-1380
Photo of Bianca Pungartnik, Registered Psychotherapist, OCCOQ, OPQ, CCC, NIHB
Bianca Pungartnik
Registered Psychotherapist, OCCOQ, OPQ, CCC, NIHB
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Throughout our sessions, I strive to create an environment of compassion, acceptance, and present moment awareness. I don't see myself as fundamentally different from the client, but rather as someone who can bring a fresh perspective to their situation. I believe that the client and I are both climbing our own mountains, and I can use my vantage point to identify obstacles on their mountain that they may not be aware of. In therapy, every struggle is important, and no one's pain is greater or less than another's. Together, we can then find new ways to navigate these obstacles and chart a new course towards a more fulfilling life.
Throughout our sessions, I strive to create an environment of compassion, acceptance, and present moment awareness. I don't see myself as fundamentally different from the client, but rather as someone who can bring a fresh perspective to their situation. I believe that the client and I are both climbing our own mountains, and I can use my vantage point to identify obstacles on their mountain that they may not be aware of. In therapy, every struggle is important, and no one's pain is greater or less than another's. Together, we can then find new ways to navigate these obstacles and chart a new course towards a more fulfilling life.
(438) 815-8125 View (438) 815-8125
Photo of Dr. Yunqiao Wang, Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Dr. Yunqiao Wang
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Online Only
Psychological Assessment Service available: Are you wanting some answers about the mental, emotional, and behavioural struggles you have been facing? I provide psychodiagnostic assessments to help you better understand these struggles and generate treatment recommendations for you to better navigate your mental health concerns. Perhaps you have in the past received a diagnosis or treatments that currently feels outdated and you want an updated assessment. Or you have been provided different labels and opinions from medical professionals and want a more in-depth assessment to help clarify your mental health concerns and diagnosis.
Psychological Assessment Service available: Are you wanting some answers about the mental, emotional, and behavioural struggles you have been facing? I provide psychodiagnostic assessments to help you better understand these struggles and generate treatment recommendations for you to better navigate your mental health concerns. Perhaps you have in the past received a diagnosis or treatments that currently feels outdated and you want an updated assessment. Or you have been provided different labels and opinions from medical professionals and want a more in-depth assessment to help clarify your mental health concerns and diagnosis.
(343) 341-6183 View (343) 341-6183
Photo of Kevin Smith, Psychologist, PhD, DPsy
Kevin Smith
Psychologist, PhD, DPsy
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I also have developed skills in the treatment of personality disorders, relational issues, trauma-related disorders, depression and suicidal ideations.
I work with clients who are curious about the functioning of their personality, who wish to understand better their desires and needs, as well as the way they cope with frustration and grief. I help my clients develop awareness of why it is they do the things they do, feel the way they feel and think the way they think. I aim to develop the possibility of making choices where automatism took place. By automatism, I speak of these relational patterns in which we find ourselves repeating similar uncomfortable dynamics without understanding why. So, in a broader sense, I work with patients wishing to understand themselves better.
I also have developed skills in the treatment of personality disorders, relational issues, trauma-related disorders, depression and suicidal ideations.
I work with clients who are curious about the functioning of their personality, who wish to understand better their desires and needs, as well as the way they cope with frustration and grief. I help my clients develop awareness of why it is they do the things they do, feel the way they feel and think the way they think. I aim to develop the possibility of making choices where automatism took place. By automatism, I speak of these relational patterns in which we find ourselves repeating similar uncomfortable dynamics without understanding why. So, in a broader sense, I work with patients wishing to understand themselves better.
(438) 256-7936 View (438) 256-7936
Photo of Laura Gollino, Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Laura Gollino
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
6 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a psychologist with almost 20 years experience. Whether you are hoping to move forward from past wounds, learn new ways of being, or to deepen relationships, I would be honoured to be part of your journey. I take the time to understand what's going on today within the larger context of your community, your life, and your goals. I believe this is an important first step in building a therapeutic relationship in which you feel safe, understood, and supported. Therapy is hard work, involving unlearning, growing, and adapting to changing environments that are not always responsive to our needs. I'm here to help.
I am a psychologist with almost 20 years experience. Whether you are hoping to move forward from past wounds, learn new ways of being, or to deepen relationships, I would be honoured to be part of your journey. I take the time to understand what's going on today within the larger context of your community, your life, and your goals. I believe this is an important first step in building a therapeutic relationship in which you feel safe, understood, and supported. Therapy is hard work, involving unlearning, growing, and adapting to changing environments that are not always responsive to our needs. I'm here to help.
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Photo of Dr. Celestine Stevens, Psychologist, PsyD, CPsych
Dr. Celestine Stevens
Psychologist, PsyD, CPsych
Serves Area
Having worked for nearly 5 years in federal prisons, I specialize in the evaluation and treatment of trauma-related disorders as well as personality disorders.
My practice focuses on building a strong, trusting relationship with the client. I am deeply passionate about treating PTSD and complex-PTSD with a tailored approach for each client. As every client has their own unique background, I adapt the treatment plan to each client’s needs while fostering a warm and empathetic relationship.
Having worked for nearly 5 years in federal prisons, I specialize in the evaluation and treatment of trauma-related disorders as well as personality disorders.
My practice focuses on building a strong, trusting relationship with the client. I am deeply passionate about treating PTSD and complex-PTSD with a tailored approach for each client. As every client has their own unique background, I adapt the treatment plan to each client’s needs while fostering a warm and empathetic relationship.
(438) 799-4011 View (438) 799-4011

See more therapy options for Ottawa

Personality Disorders Counsellors

What are the common treatment options for personality disorders?

Personality disorders are typically treated with psychotherapy, sometimes in conjunction with medication. Therapy can help people with personality disorders develop skills to tolerate difficult emotions, navigate interpersonal relationships, and solidify their sense of self. Medications can treat symptoms that co-occur with the disorder, such as depression, anger, aggression, and impulsivity.

When to seek treatment for personality disorders?

Even though treatment for personality disorders can be an uphill battle, it’s best to seek help if you suspect that you or a loved one is struggling with one, because personality disorders can create substantial problems in life. Symptoms depend on the specific disorder, but overall signs of personality disorders include consistent difficulty maintaining close relationships, dramatic variations in self-esteem, and an unstable sense of identity.

How long does therapy take for personality disorders?

The timeline for treating personality disorders isn’t as clear-cut as it is for other disorders. Change can be difficult, taking from around one year to five, 10, or more. The key is finding a therapist who has extensive experience treating the relevant disorder. For example, a psychologist who specialises in narcissistic personality disorder has specific communication strategies that allow them to sustain the relationship and be more effective with narcissistic patients.

Can therapy help people with personality disorders?

Research suggests that for those who are motivated to address concerns or interpersonal conflict related to a personality disorder, therapy is far more effective than no treatment, and that most people in therapy see improvements. However, since personality disorders involve entrenched elements of identity, they are less responsive to treatment than are other mental health conditions. Finding an expert who has extensive experience working with a given personality disorder is one factor that increases the likelihood of successful treatment.