Personality Disorders Therapists in Woodbridge, ON

Photo of Dr. Robert Cardom, Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Dr. Robert Cardom
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Woodbridge, ON L4L
Accepting new clients (as of 7/8/2026). Anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and life transitions can leave you feeling stuck, disconnected, or unsure who you really are. You might be questioning your identity, struggling in your relationships, or trying to manage stress, depression, or burnout. I work with individuals and couples who want to feel more grounded, more confident, and more like themselves again. I am currently accepting new clients for in person and virtual therapy and offer a free 15 minute consultation.
Accepting new clients (as of 7/8/2026). Anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and life transitions can leave you feeling stuck, disconnected, or unsure who you really are. You might be questioning your identity, struggling in your relationships, or trying to manage stress, depression, or burnout. I work with individuals and couples who want to feel more grounded, more confident, and more like themselves again. I am currently accepting new clients for in person and virtual therapy and offer a free 15 minute consultation.
(365) 654-3514 View (365) 654-3514
Photo of Shabnam Sarah Moulaei - Talk to Heal Counselling Services, Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Talk to Heal Counselling Services
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Woodbridge, ON L4L
Is anxiety getting in the way of living? Do you often wonder if your personal life should be better? Are you living in your past - unable to move forward? Do you find yourself disconnected from yourself or your partner? Do you feel safe in your family? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and unsure about how they are supposed to manage different and all demanding aspects of their day-to-day life including, their time, careers, and their families. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself might look like an easy solution at first, but long term it can create mental and physical challenges.
Is anxiety getting in the way of living? Do you often wonder if your personal life should be better? Are you living in your past - unable to move forward? Do you find yourself disconnected from yourself or your partner? Do you feel safe in your family? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and unsure about how they are supposed to manage different and all demanding aspects of their day-to-day life including, their time, careers, and their families. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself might look like an easy solution at first, but long term it can create mental and physical challenges.
(416) 831-2363 View (416) 831-2363
Photo of Denice Muzzatti - Stable life therapy, Registered Psychotherapist
Stable life therapy
Registered Psychotherapist
3 Endorsed
Woodbridge, ON L4L
If you feel ALONE, ABANDONED, REJECTED or MISUNDERSTOOD, Equine-Assisted Therapy could be a good fit for you. Animals , particularly HORSES, have pure hearts that touch human souls. I provide psychotherapy in collaboration with horses. Being outdoors with theses beautiful animals gives you an opportunity to connect to yourself. You can be present and in the moment. I offer an experiential type of therapy in nature that provides insight into who you are and what you can do to change recurring behaviours. EQUINE-ASSISTED THERAPY provides an opportunity to connect to yourself in new ways.
If you feel ALONE, ABANDONED, REJECTED or MISUNDERSTOOD, Equine-Assisted Therapy could be a good fit for you. Animals , particularly HORSES, have pure hearts that touch human souls. I provide psychotherapy in collaboration with horses. Being outdoors with theses beautiful animals gives you an opportunity to connect to yourself. You can be present and in the moment. I offer an experiential type of therapy in nature that provides insight into who you are and what you can do to change recurring behaviours. EQUINE-ASSISTED THERAPY provides an opportunity to connect to yourself in new ways.
(647) 697-5546 View (647) 697-5546
Photo of Maria Pitiakoudis, Psychologist, PsyD, CPsych
Maria Pitiakoudis
Psychologist, PsyD, CPsych
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I also help patients learn to cope with personality disorders, and difficulties with relationships, work, procrastination, identity and life adjustment, stress management, infertility, bereavement, self-esteem, and impulse control such as gambling and anger management.
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist registered with the College of Psychologist of Ontario. I have a Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology and an M.A. in Counseling Psychology from the Adler School of Professional Psychology in Chicago. My clinical training is integrative, and includes a directive Cognitive Behavioral method, a more introspective Psychodynamic approach, as well as a holistic Mindfulness style. I incorporate various therapeutic modalities into my clinical practice in accordance with the individual needs of each patient. I am fluent in English and Greek. I currently conduct virtual therapy.
I also help patients learn to cope with personality disorders, and difficulties with relationships, work, procrastination, identity and life adjustment, stress management, infertility, bereavement, self-esteem, and impulse control such as gambling and anger management.
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist registered with the College of Psychologist of Ontario. I have a Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology and an M.A. in Counseling Psychology from the Adler School of Professional Psychology in Chicago. My clinical training is integrative, and includes a directive Cognitive Behavioral method, a more introspective Psychodynamic approach, as well as a holistic Mindfulness style. I incorporate various therapeutic modalities into my clinical practice in accordance with the individual needs of each patient. I am fluent in English and Greek. I currently conduct virtual therapy.
(855) 976-9803 View (855) 976-9803
Photo of Maddie Motamed - Mental Health & Freedom Inc., Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Mental Health & Freedom Inc.
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
4 Endorsed
Online Only
If you are struggling with Anxiety, Depression Trauma, and Narcissistic Abuse, or emotional exhaustion from difficult relationships, you are not alone.
I help clients who are experiencing Anxiety D, chronic worry, panic, and stress, Trauma, PTSD, and complex trauma (C-PTSD), Emotional abuse and narcissistic relationship recovery, Depression and mood disorders, low self-esteem, boundaries, and relationship challenges. I support clients via online therapy in Ontario with timely access and compassionate care.
If you are struggling with Anxiety, Depression Trauma, and Narcissistic Abuse, or emotional exhaustion from difficult relationships, you are not alone.
I help clients who are experiencing Anxiety D, chronic worry, panic, and stress, Trauma, PTSD, and complex trauma (C-PTSD), Emotional abuse and narcissistic relationship recovery, Depression and mood disorders, low self-esteem, boundaries, and relationship challenges. I support clients via online therapy in Ontario with timely access and compassionate care.
(289) 272-6274 View (289) 272-6274
Photo of Mary Marano, Counsellor, RP, DCP
Mary Marano
Counsellor, RP, DCP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
For many, therapy is sought out because of a crisis situation. It is difficult to live with feelings of anxiety, anger and despair. These feelings can affect your marriage, family, children and work life by creating conflict. It is my hope to restore a sense of calm during this time of self discovery and support you through life's challenges. I will offer you realistic, easy to use tools and strategies that can work to repair and enhance your relationships. Learn to set boundaries, repair and recover from infidelity, manage anger and build trust in a safe and compassionate environment.
For many, therapy is sought out because of a crisis situation. It is difficult to live with feelings of anxiety, anger and despair. These feelings can affect your marriage, family, children and work life by creating conflict. It is my hope to restore a sense of calm during this time of self discovery and support you through life's challenges. I will offer you realistic, easy to use tools and strategies that can work to repair and enhance your relationships. Learn to set boundaries, repair and recover from infidelity, manage anger and build trust in a safe and compassionate environment.
(855) 979-7719 View (855) 979-7719
Photo of Stefanie Gorendar - York Region Healing Arts, Registered Psychotherapist, BA, Hons, MA, RP, ECPC
York Region Healing Arts
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, Hons, MA, RP, ECPC
Serves Area
Are you looking to make some positive changes in your life? Are you tired of being stuck in a rut? If you are struggling with life transitions, relationship difficulties, stress, anxiety or depression we provide a warm environment to explore those struggles in order to work with you to create the life that you want to live. Stefanie is a registered psychotherapist and certified life coach and utilizes skills from both areas to work through those difficulties. We also offer flexible scheduling times such as weekdays, evenings, and weekends.
Are you looking to make some positive changes in your life? Are you tired of being stuck in a rut? If you are struggling with life transitions, relationship difficulties, stress, anxiety or depression we provide a warm environment to explore those struggles in order to work with you to create the life that you want to live. Stefanie is a registered psychotherapist and certified life coach and utilizes skills from both areas to work through those difficulties. We also offer flexible scheduling times such as weekdays, evenings, and weekends.
(289) 277-0520 View (289) 277-0520
Photo of Nicole Bonich, Registered Psychotherapist, MEd
Nicole Bonich
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you a first responder or executive who feels constantly “on,” even at home? You hold it together for everyone else, but behind the scenes you are exhausted, irritable, and unable to truly switch off. I work with high-functioning individuals to address what is happening beneath the surface, both individually and as a couple. I also support partners of first responders, recognizing the unique emotional load that comes with loving someone in a high-demand role. We all carry multiple roles, and when the demands of work start to spill into home life, it can take a toll on your well-being and your relationship. I can help.
Are you a first responder or executive who feels constantly “on,” even at home? You hold it together for everyone else, but behind the scenes you are exhausted, irritable, and unable to truly switch off. I work with high-functioning individuals to address what is happening beneath the surface, both individually and as a couple. I also support partners of first responders, recognizing the unique emotional load that comes with loving someone in a high-demand role. We all carry multiple roles, and when the demands of work start to spill into home life, it can take a toll on your well-being and your relationship. I can help.
(365) 797-4018 View (365) 797-4018
Photo of Tania da Costa, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Tania da Costa
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Serves Area
Often when we experience difficulties in life we can feel stuck. We may spend our time and energy ruminating about the past or worrying about the future, leading us to miss the present moment. "The past is finished. Learn from it and let it go.The future is not here yet. Plan for it, but do not waste your time worrying about it.Worrying is worthless"(Brian L. Weiss).I'm passionate about my work and will work to help you tackle life's challenges that fit your lifestyle and goals for therapeutic change. By creating a safe, warm and welcoming environment as the foundation to help create change and help prevent later suffering/hardship
Often when we experience difficulties in life we can feel stuck. We may spend our time and energy ruminating about the past or worrying about the future, leading us to miss the present moment. "The past is finished. Learn from it and let it go.The future is not here yet. Plan for it, but do not waste your time worrying about it.Worrying is worthless"(Brian L. Weiss).I'm passionate about my work and will work to help you tackle life's challenges that fit your lifestyle and goals for therapeutic change. By creating a safe, warm and welcoming environment as the foundation to help create change and help prevent later suffering/hardship
(289) 210-5959 View (289) 210-5959
Photo of Catherine Zeppieri, Registered Psychotherapist, HonBA, MA , BED, RP , CCC
Catherine Zeppieri
Registered Psychotherapist, HonBA, MA , BED, RP , CCC
Serves Area
Life can feel heavy, as though challenges are taking up more space in your story than you would like. You may notice anxiety, sadness, or a sense of being overwhelmed showing up in your day-to-day life. Stress at home, at school, or at work, along with tension in important relationships, can begin to shape how you see yourself and your experiences. These challenges are not who you are! Together, we can explore how these problems have been affecting your life, while also uncovering your strengths and values. You can re-author your your story in ways that feel more meaningful, empowering, and aligned with the life you want to live.
Life can feel heavy, as though challenges are taking up more space in your story than you would like. You may notice anxiety, sadness, or a sense of being overwhelmed showing up in your day-to-day life. Stress at home, at school, or at work, along with tension in important relationships, can begin to shape how you see yourself and your experiences. These challenges are not who you are! Together, we can explore how these problems have been affecting your life, while also uncovering your strengths and values. You can re-author your your story in ways that feel more meaningful, empowering, and aligned with the life you want to live.
(289) 302-7751 View (289) 302-7751
Photo of Arbus Weidenfelder - Vaughan Psychologists, Psychologist
Vaughan Psychologists
Psychologist
Serves Area
At Vaughan Psychologists, we offer psychological services for children, adolescents, adults, and families with a variety of mental health needs. At our office we provide numerous psychological services including psychodianostic and psychoeducational assessments, psychotherapy, and consultation. With over 20 years of experience, we offer specialized and personalized services to individuals struggling with with all types of anxiety, depression, OCD, mood related disorders and all other mental health challenges. We personalize our services so that you can feel comfortable and supported to conquer any issues you may be experiencing.
At Vaughan Psychologists, we offer psychological services for children, adolescents, adults, and families with a variety of mental health needs. At our office we provide numerous psychological services including psychodianostic and psychoeducational assessments, psychotherapy, and consultation. With over 20 years of experience, we offer specialized and personalized services to individuals struggling with with all types of anxiety, depression, OCD, mood related disorders and all other mental health challenges. We personalize our services so that you can feel comfortable and supported to conquer any issues you may be experiencing.
(647) 933-9775 View (647) 933-9775

More Therapists Nearby

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 Dr. Paula Miceli, Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Dr. Paula Miceli
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6G
Welcome! I'm a compassionate psychologist dedicated to helping individuals navigate life's challenges and improve well-being. My strengths lie in supporting adults who are managing acute/chronic illness, addressing both the physical and emotional challenges they face, including anxiety, stress, physical pain, trauma, and identity. I also support those facing relationship and emotional difficulties - we work together to build stronger connections (to self & others) and inner peace. I am located in Toronto, Ontario, with in-person and telehealth services to Ontario residents. I also offer telehealth services to Nova Scotia residents.
Welcome! I'm a compassionate psychologist dedicated to helping individuals navigate life's challenges and improve well-being. My strengths lie in supporting adults who are managing acute/chronic illness, addressing both the physical and emotional challenges they face, including anxiety, stress, physical pain, trauma, and identity. I also support those facing relationship and emotional difficulties - we work together to build stronger connections (to self & others) and inner peace. I am located in Toronto, Ontario, with in-person and telehealth services to Ontario residents. I also offer telehealth services to Nova Scotia residents.
(437) 747-1678 View (437) 747-1678
Photo of Joanne Kelly Lawrence, Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW
Joanne Kelly Lawrence
Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW
2 Endorsed
Milton, ON L9T
I have worked with personality disorders in the public and private sector for many years with a focus on CBT for anxiety/depression symptoms and Schema Therapy for trauma.
I have worked in the field of mental health for 25 years within many respected organizations such as, the Centre for Addition and Mental Health, Trillium Healthcare Partners and I currently work as a Therapist within Halton Health Care. I have started my own part time private practice in the Milton area. I specialize with helping people move forward by overcoming issues related to anxiety and depression by utilizing an integrated approach to practice and specifically CBT and Schema Therapy. I work with teens and adults and can help you overcome issues related to anger, low self-esteem, depression, relationship conflict and anxiety.
I have worked with personality disorders in the public and private sector for many years with a focus on CBT for anxiety/depression symptoms and Schema Therapy for trauma.
I have worked in the field of mental health for 25 years within many respected organizations such as, the Centre for Addition and Mental Health, Trillium Healthcare Partners and I currently work as a Therapist within Halton Health Care. I have started my own part time private practice in the Milton area. I specialize with helping people move forward by overcoming issues related to anxiety and depression by utilizing an integrated approach to practice and specifically CBT and Schema Therapy. I work with teens and adults and can help you overcome issues related to anger, low self-esteem, depression, relationship conflict and anxiety.
(289) 797-3197 View (289) 797-3197
Photo of Wei-Hao Wu, Registered Psychotherapist, BEd, MEd, RP
Wei-Hao Wu
Registered Psychotherapist, BEd, MEd, RP
7 Endorsed
Serves Area
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 and Attachment Issues, and so on.
The goal of 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 meaningful 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 and Attachment Issues, and so on.
The goal of 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 meaningful 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 Lisa Young, Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MAVCS
Lisa Young
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MAVCS
Toronto, ON M6R
Each of us traverses a landscape unique to ourselves, and there are times when loss, grief, anxiety, depression, and low motivation overtake our robustness, sense of purpose & peace of mind. Sometimes, those issues can intersect with bullying, abuse, accident, illness, relationship upsets, and online or in-person bullying that can further chip away at our right to ease and inner coherence at a time when the world around us is already filled with confusion and difficulty. At these times, a warm, practical and receptive therapeutic experience can help us make meaning and reclaim calm.
Each of us traverses a landscape unique to ourselves, and there are times when loss, grief, anxiety, depression, and low motivation overtake our robustness, sense of purpose & peace of mind. Sometimes, those issues can intersect with bullying, abuse, accident, illness, relationship upsets, and online or in-person bullying that can further chip away at our right to ease and inner coherence at a time when the world around us is already filled with confusion and difficulty. At these times, a warm, practical and receptive therapeutic experience can help us make meaning and reclaim calm.
(226) 457-5160 View (226) 457-5160
Photo of Nikolai Pavlov, Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Nikolai Pavlov
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I specialise in working with personality disorders, complex trauma, dissociation, and related issues.
You may find yourself trapped in the same painful relational patterns of feeling misunderstood, chronically empty, or disconnected from yourself and others. I work with adults navigating complex trauma, personality difficulties (including NPD and BPD), structural dissociation, and the aftermath of high-conflict relationships. Standard supportive or skill-based therapy like CBT is often ineffective for these challenges. I utilize Mentalization-Based Treatment (MBT) and trauma-informed stabilization—structured, evidence-based frameworks designed specifically for complex relational and personality pathology.
I specialise in working with personality disorders, complex trauma, dissociation, and related issues.
You may find yourself trapped in the same painful relational patterns of feeling misunderstood, chronically empty, or disconnected from yourself and others. I work with adults navigating complex trauma, personality difficulties (including NPD and BPD), structural dissociation, and the aftermath of high-conflict relationships. Standard supportive or skill-based therapy like CBT is often ineffective for these challenges. I utilize Mentalization-Based Treatment (MBT) and trauma-informed stabilization—structured, evidence-based frameworks designed specifically for complex relational and personality pathology.
(647) 494-9245 View (647) 494-9245
Photo of Jessica Cummings, Registered Social Worker, MA, MSW, DCP(c), RSW
Jessica Cummings
Registered Social Worker, MA, MSW, DCP(c), RSW
As a Psychotherapist trained in Mindfulness, Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioural Therapies, Equine-Assisted Therapy, and E.M.D.R. my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
As a Psychotherapist trained in Mindfulness, Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioural Therapies, Equine-Assisted Therapy, and E.M.D.R. my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(365) 364-1151 View (365) 364-1151
Photo of Rebekah Kunica, Registered Psychotherapist, BSW, MDiv, ADHD-CC
Rebekah Kunica
Registered Psychotherapist, BSW, MDiv, ADHD-CC
2 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5M
Waitlist for new clients
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 our past 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 our past to create transformational change.
(289) 301-8240 View (289) 301-8240
Photo of Anthony De Lemos Kawka, Counsellor, MM, RP, RCS
Anthony De Lemos Kawka
Counsellor, MM, RP, RCS
Serves Area
I am a Registered Psychotherapist and Registered Counselling Supervisor. My practice is guided by extensive experience working with people coming from various socioeconomic backgrounds as well as many years of serving the most vulnerable communities in Vancouver’s DTES. While my approach is integrative of modern theories and techniques, it heavily relies on Psychodynamic theories and practice. Psychodynamic Psychotherapy is a highly individualized treatment whose goal is not only to alleviate the most obvious symptom. It relies on the fact that our personalities are uniquely shaped by several developmental stages.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist and Registered Counselling Supervisor. My practice is guided by extensive experience working with people coming from various socioeconomic backgrounds as well as many years of serving the most vulnerable communities in Vancouver’s DTES. While my approach is integrative of modern theories and techniques, it heavily relies on Psychodynamic theories and practice. Psychodynamic Psychotherapy is a highly individualized treatment whose goal is not only to alleviate the most obvious symptom. It relies on the fact that our personalities are uniquely shaped by several developmental stages.
(226) 457-3416 View (226) 457-3416
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.