Photo of Theresa Barker, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ottawa, ON
Theresa Barker
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1N  (Online Only)
I am a Nationally Certified Custody Evaluator through Professional Academy of Custody Evaluators (PACE). As a Registered Marriage and Family Therapist, I have been conducting comprehensive/forensic custody evaluations for over 20 years. I conduct evaluations including a full range of highly complex custody and co-parenting issues. I have training specific to Estrangement, Parental Alienation, Pathological Enmeshment, Domestic Violence/Intimate Partner Violence, and mental health issues with a focus on evidence based practice. I also have understanding of Borderline, Narcissistic, and Sociopathic Personality Disorders.
I am a Nationally Certified Custody Evaluator through Professional Academy of Custody Evaluators (PACE). As a Registered Marriage and Family Therapist, I have been conducting comprehensive/forensic custody evaluations for over 20 years. I conduct evaluations including a full range of highly complex custody and co-parenting issues. I have training specific to Estrangement, Parental Alienation, Pathological Enmeshment, Domestic Violence/Intimate Partner Violence, and mental health issues with a focus on evidence based practice. I also have understanding of Borderline, Narcissistic, and Sociopathic Personality Disorders.
(343) 308-2536 View (343) 308-2536
Photo of Narcissistic Abuse Recovery Therapy - Lyna Hijazi, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ottawa, ON
Narcissistic Abuse Recovery Therapy - Lyna Hijazi
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q), BA, BEd
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K0A  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping people like you recover from narcissistic abuse, including anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, personality disorders, and emotional disturbance.
Accepting New Clients! Do you struggle with recovering from abuse of a narcissistic partner or parent that affects your current relationships, day to day life, and overall trust? Do you feel isolated, broken, embarrassed, hoping that things will change? Do you put other people's needs before your own? If so you likely feel overwhelmed, lost, and hurt by your partner, previous partner, or parent. You're probably wondering if things can possibly be better. If you're currently in a relationship with a narcissist or are recovering from the abuse of a narcissist, you’re not alone, and I'm here to help you on your journey to recovery.
I specialize in helping people like you recover from narcissistic abuse, including anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, personality disorders, and emotional disturbance.
Accepting New Clients! Do you struggle with recovering from abuse of a narcissistic partner or parent that affects your current relationships, day to day life, and overall trust? Do you feel isolated, broken, embarrassed, hoping that things will change? Do you put other people's needs before your own? If so you likely feel overwhelmed, lost, and hurt by your partner, previous partner, or parent. You're probably wondering if things can possibly be better. If you're currently in a relationship with a narcissist or are recovering from the abuse of a narcissist, you’re not alone, and I'm here to help you on your journey to recovery.
(365) 600-5073 View (365) 600-5073
Photo of Dela Lubin - Counselling And Consulting Services, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Dela Lubin - Counselling And Consulting Services
Registered Psychotherapist, MPS
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1H  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with the daily pressures of life? Do you find yourself inundated by unhealthy thoughts and emotions which overwhelm and control your life? My name is Dela and I'm a Registered Psychotherapist with a passion for helping families and individuals like yourself learn how to regain balance by taking control of destructive thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. This includes working with and families and individuals with a history of childhood neglect, abuse, trauma, work related issues, family problems, and psychological issues including anxiety, mood, and personality disorders.
Are you struggling with the daily pressures of life? Do you find yourself inundated by unhealthy thoughts and emotions which overwhelm and control your life? My name is Dela and I'm a Registered Psychotherapist with a passion for helping families and individuals like yourself learn how to regain balance by taking control of destructive thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. This includes working with and families and individuals with a history of childhood neglect, abuse, trauma, work related issues, family problems, and psychological issues including anxiety, mood, and personality disorders.
(226) 407-9163 View (226) 407-9163
Photo of Cognitive Resilience Counselling Clinic, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Cognitive Resilience Counselling Clinic
Registered Psychotherapist, RPQ, RBT, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1R
Our team of experienced and compassionate therapists are highly trained and specialize in treating a wide array of mental health disorders such as ADHD, ASD, Substance Misuse, BPD, OCD, Depression, Anxiety, personality disorders, learning disabilities, trauma, and more.
Cognitive Resilience Counselling Clinic (CRCC) is a psychotherapy practice running in person in Brampton from Mon-Sat 9-9. CRCC is committed to helping individuals overcome mental health disorders, build resilience, and live fulfilling and meaningful lives. Our values of compassion, safety, collaboration, and personalized care guide our work and are at the heart of everything we do. At CRCC, we understand that mental health disorders can be challenging and isolating experiences, and that seeking help can be difficult. That is why we have created a warm and welcoming environment where everyone feels heard, respected, and supported.
Our team of experienced and compassionate therapists are highly trained and specialize in treating a wide array of mental health disorders such as ADHD, ASD, Substance Misuse, BPD, OCD, Depression, Anxiety, personality disorders, learning disabilities, trauma, and more.
Cognitive Resilience Counselling Clinic (CRCC) is a psychotherapy practice running in person in Brampton from Mon-Sat 9-9. CRCC is committed to helping individuals overcome mental health disorders, build resilience, and live fulfilling and meaningful lives. Our values of compassion, safety, collaboration, and personalized care guide our work and are at the heart of everything we do. At CRCC, we understand that mental health disorders can be challenging and isolating experiences, and that seeking help can be difficult. That is why we have created a warm and welcoming environment where everyone feels heard, respected, and supported.
(289) 778-3851 View (289) 778-3851
Photo of Stacey L Sanderson, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Stacey L Sanderson
Registered Psychotherapist, BSW, MA, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K0A
With over 25 years of experience, I have niche expertise in narcissistic wounding and recovery.
There is a wide range of people I work with. Many of them are kind, naturally empathic and are seeking help with boundaries, clarity and reciprocity in their relationships. There is humor, shared stories, moments of deep understanding and connection. Most clients are seeking affirmation that they are 'ok' and that their feelings and experiences are human. We are so much more than what we perceive our problems are. My goal is that you leave the first session with hope, optimism and courage to learn about old patterns and make changes to your life and relationships.
With over 25 years of experience, I have niche expertise in narcissistic wounding and recovery.
There is a wide range of people I work with. Many of them are kind, naturally empathic and are seeking help with boundaries, clarity and reciprocity in their relationships. There is humor, shared stories, moments of deep understanding and connection. Most clients are seeking affirmation that they are 'ok' and that their feelings and experiences are human. We are so much more than what we perceive our problems are. My goal is that you leave the first session with hope, optimism and courage to learn about old patterns and make changes to your life and relationships.
(249) 500-4966 View (249) 500-4966
Photo of COPE Well Groups, Psychologist in Ottawa, ON
COPE Well Groups
Psychologist, MSc, CPsych
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2A  (Online Only)
Participants will learn skills informed by Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT). The group facilitators promote a welcoming, inclusive environment and will teach skills through verbal instruction, video presentations and group discussions.
Participants will learn skills informed by Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT). The group facilitators promote a welcoming, inclusive environment and will teach skills through verbal instruction, video presentations and group discussions.
(343) 312-5562 View (343) 312-5562
Photo of Dr. Mahin Tavakoli, Psychologist in Ottawa, ON
Dr. Mahin Tavakoli
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
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 Bianca Pungartnik, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Bianca Pungartnik
Registered Psychotherapist, OPQ, OCCOQ, CCC, NIHB, CRPO
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1R
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.
(514) 889-8922 View (514) 889-8922
Photo of Melanie Laura Bakker, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Melanie Laura Bakker
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1G  (Online Only)
Do you feel like you and your partner have the same argument over and over without any resolution? You are not alone. Most of the couples that come to see me talk about being stuck in this way. My job is to help you connect with your partner in meaningful way so that the two of you start to have different conversations than the ones you do at home. I also offer sex therapy. Whether you are an individual or couple, part of a monogamous or open relationship I offer a safe, non- judgemental, confidential space for you to share your experience.
Do you feel like you and your partner have the same argument over and over without any resolution? You are not alone. Most of the couples that come to see me talk about being stuck in this way. My job is to help you connect with your partner in meaningful way so that the two of you start to have different conversations than the ones you do at home. I also offer sex therapy. Whether you are an individual or couple, part of a monogamous or open relationship I offer a safe, non- judgemental, confidential space for you to share your experience.
(613) 522-0625 View (613) 522-0625
Photo of Jaswir Dhillon, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Jaswir Dhillon
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1P  (Online Only)
I work with individuals and couples who are experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, relationship challenges, and career and workplace difficulties. I specialize in the treatment of childhood and intergenerational trauma. I can help you calm dysregulated nervous system responses, deepen your understanding of yourself, increase emotional awareness and improve emotional regulation, work with you to confront and shift self-limiting beliefs and response patterns, and help you cultivate self-acceptance and self-love.
I work with individuals and couples who are experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, relationship challenges, and career and workplace difficulties. I specialize in the treatment of childhood and intergenerational trauma. I can help you calm dysregulated nervous system responses, deepen your understanding of yourself, increase emotional awareness and improve emotional regulation, work with you to confront and shift self-limiting beliefs and response patterns, and help you cultivate self-acceptance and self-love.
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Photo of Expressive Arts Therapy Ottawa, Pre-Licensed Professional in Ottawa, ON
Expressive Arts Therapy Ottawa
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2B
Now accepting new clients! Each of us has had relational experiences that have left us feeling discomfort, insecure or unhappy. I am here to walk with you through this journey of exploring yourself and depending the understanding of your patterns and response through an attachment/ relational therapy and expressive arts lens - both through talk therapy and creating art, or a combination of the two working within your comfort. I have many years experience working with anxiety and depression, as well as trauma/ stress responses. If you find yourself stuck and wanting to explore, please contact us and see if we’re the right fit for you
Now accepting new clients! Each of us has had relational experiences that have left us feeling discomfort, insecure or unhappy. I am here to walk with you through this journey of exploring yourself and depending the understanding of your patterns and response through an attachment/ relational therapy and expressive arts lens - both through talk therapy and creating art, or a combination of the two working within your comfort. I have many years experience working with anxiety and depression, as well as trauma/ stress responses. If you find yourself stuck and wanting to explore, please contact us and see if we’re the right fit for you
(343) 700-1860 View (343) 700-1860
Photo of Laura Zychla, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ottawa, ON
Laura Zychla
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K0A
I work with children and adults experiencing the effects of trauma, depression, anxiety, emotional exhaustion, grief, difficult, life situations such as divorce, abuse or illness, and more. Through a person-centered focus, I aim to support you in achieving your therapeutic goals, will stand with you in challenging times, and can help you move through difficult emotions, thoughts, and behaviours toward better mental health. Whether I am being silly with children to demonstrate emotions or immersed in exploring past traumas with adults, I come from a place of warm compassion, optimism, and collaboration to support your journey.
I work with children and adults experiencing the effects of trauma, depression, anxiety, emotional exhaustion, grief, difficult, life situations such as divorce, abuse or illness, and more. Through a person-centered focus, I aim to support you in achieving your therapeutic goals, will stand with you in challenging times, and can help you move through difficult emotions, thoughts, and behaviours toward better mental health. Whether I am being silly with children to demonstrate emotions or immersed in exploring past traumas with adults, I come from a place of warm compassion, optimism, and collaboration to support your journey.
(343) 308-3594 View (343) 308-3594
Photo of Karine Langley, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Karine Langley
Registered Psychotherapist, PhD, RP
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1G
If you feel stressed or a little lost. If you feel overwhelmed and not enjoying life.I can help you rediscover the best version of yourself. My ideal client is someone who is unsure but wants to learn and is open minded to allow me to journey with them to wholeness. I have over 30 years of experience with all types of clients from prisoners to toddlers. The key to success in working with me is simply keep an open mind, discover who you are and do not be afraid to take a leap into what appears to you to be the unknown.
If you feel stressed or a little lost. If you feel overwhelmed and not enjoying life.I can help you rediscover the best version of yourself. My ideal client is someone who is unsure but wants to learn and is open minded to allow me to journey with them to wholeness. I have over 30 years of experience with all types of clients from prisoners to toddlers. The key to success in working with me is simply keep an open mind, discover who you are and do not be afraid to take a leap into what appears to you to be the unknown.
(613) 702-8223 View (613) 702-8223
Photo of Ottawa Centre for Resilience, Psychologist in Ottawa, ON
Ottawa Centre for Resilience
Psychologist, CPsych
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1S
We are currently accepting clients immediately with NO WAIT for psychotherapy (children, adolescents, adults, and families). You can book an intake here: aws-portal/owlpractice.ca/ocfr We are a mental health centre for childhood trauma & dissociation, attachment, adoption, and high-conflict families for Ottawa and surrounding areas. Our clinicians have advanced training in a variety of evidence-based trauma-informed approaches for treating children, youth, adults, and families, including psycho-biologically and somatic based approaches, such as EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, SMART, Brainspotting, and Safe and Sound Protocol.
We are currently accepting clients immediately with NO WAIT for psychotherapy (children, adolescents, adults, and families). You can book an intake here: aws-portal/owlpractice.ca/ocfr We are a mental health centre for childhood trauma & dissociation, attachment, adoption, and high-conflict families for Ottawa and surrounding areas. Our clinicians have advanced training in a variety of evidence-based trauma-informed approaches for treating children, youth, adults, and families, including psycho-biologically and somatic based approaches, such as EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, SMART, Brainspotting, and Safe and Sound Protocol.
(613) 714-0662 View (613) 714-0662
Photo of Anne Walzak, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Anne Walzak
Registered Social Worker, RSW, SEP
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1Y  (Online Only)
With over 30 years of experience in the field of trauma counselling, Anne has amassed a rare skill set. She has expertise in a number of therapeutic disciplines including CBT and DBT . She has studied Somatic Experiencing, Sand tray-Worldplay and Play Therapy. She has worked with clients struggling with addiction, depression, anxiety and trauma. Anne works closely with clients to determine a personalized plan to unlock their inner resources and to help them find agency.
With over 30 years of experience in the field of trauma counselling, Anne has amassed a rare skill set. She has expertise in a number of therapeutic disciplines including CBT and DBT . She has studied Somatic Experiencing, Sand tray-Worldplay and Play Therapy. She has worked with clients struggling with addiction, depression, anxiety and trauma. Anne works closely with clients to determine a personalized plan to unlock their inner resources and to help them find agency.
(343) 307-7188 View (343) 307-7188
Photo of Ghislaine Benmoussa, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Ghislaine Benmoussa
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, Qualify
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1S
Bienvenue. Il m’est un plaisir de vous accompagner dans un travail vers la profondeur de votre expérience pour vous aider à cibler vos propres besoins et à les combler. Pour moi, la relation client-thérapeute est au cœur du processus thérapeutique. C’est pourquoi c’est avec attention que je prends soin de ma relation avec vous afin de vous offrir un espace sécuritaire, de confiance et sans jugement. Il m’est crucial que vous vous sentiez vue, entendue, soutenue, affirmée et honorée durant votre processus de guérison.
Bienvenue. Il m’est un plaisir de vous accompagner dans un travail vers la profondeur de votre expérience pour vous aider à cibler vos propres besoins et à les combler. Pour moi, la relation client-thérapeute est au cœur du processus thérapeutique. C’est pourquoi c’est avec attention que je prends soin de ma relation avec vous afin de vous offrir un espace sécuritaire, de confiance et sans jugement. Il m’est crucial que vous vous sentiez vue, entendue, soutenue, affirmée et honorée durant votre processus de guérison.
(343) 312-5274 View (343) 312-5274
Photo of Cecilia Taiana, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Cecilia Taiana
Registered Psychotherapist, PhD, RP
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1M
I am a Registered Psychotherapist located in Ottawa providing psychodynamic psychotherapy and psychoanalysis to individuals, couples, and families. I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues, providing services that span from therapy for depression and anxiety to grief counseling, emotional and functional adjustments, PTSD, stress management, couples counseling and beyond. I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of my clients' individual needs to help them attain personal growth. Typically, you can expect to discuss with me the events currently happening in your life and your personal history relevant to your concerns.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist located in Ottawa providing psychodynamic psychotherapy and psychoanalysis to individuals, couples, and families. I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues, providing services that span from therapy for depression and anxiety to grief counseling, emotional and functional adjustments, PTSD, stress management, couples counseling and beyond. I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of my clients' individual needs to help them attain personal growth. Typically, you can expect to discuss with me the events currently happening in your life and your personal history relevant to your concerns.
(855) 727-9659 View (855) 727-9659
Photo of Julia Maiorino, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Julia Maiorino
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P
It is my goal to provide my clients with a warm, nonjudgmental and honest environment where they can feel most comfortable exploring their thoughts, emotions and troubles. Much of my experience comes from working in mental health at The Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre. I have a passion for working with adolescents and adults as they develop the courage to explore their vulnerabilities on their journey towards wellness and fulfilment. My experience has allowed me to develop skills in working with depression, anxiety, grief, issues related to sexuality, emotional regulation, social fears and phobias, self-esteem and suicidal ideation.
It is my goal to provide my clients with a warm, nonjudgmental and honest environment where they can feel most comfortable exploring their thoughts, emotions and troubles. Much of my experience comes from working in mental health at The Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre. I have a passion for working with adolescents and adults as they develop the courage to explore their vulnerabilities on their journey towards wellness and fulfilment. My experience has allowed me to develop skills in working with depression, anxiety, grief, issues related to sexuality, emotional regulation, social fears and phobias, self-esteem and suicidal ideation.
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Photo of The Counselling Group, Psychologist in Ottawa, ON
The Counselling Group
Psychologist, MSW RSW, PhD, CCC, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2B
Our Masters/PhD level certified and experienced mental health professionals at The Counselling Group provide psychological assessments as well as a full range of psychotherapy, counselling and support services for children, adolescents, and adults. We offer individual, couple, family & group counselling tailored to support positive, meaningful change and growth in your life. During your free phone consultation, we will carefully match you with one of our 40 counsellors, based on your needs and availability. Our services are offered in English, French, Spanish, Arabic and several other languages.
Our Masters/PhD level certified and experienced mental health professionals at The Counselling Group provide psychological assessments as well as a full range of psychotherapy, counselling and support services for children, adolescents, and adults. We offer individual, couple, family & group counselling tailored to support positive, meaningful change and growth in your life. During your free phone consultation, we will carefully match you with one of our 40 counsellors, based on your needs and availability. Our services are offered in English, French, Spanish, Arabic and several other languages.
(343) 944-4889 View (343) 944-4889
Photo of Chelsea Whyte, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Chelsea Whyte
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2G
— Now Accepting New Clients — Are you ready to see yourself in a different light? Congratulations on starting this courageous process to self-discovery and healing. I enjoy helping youth and adults build healthy relationships and minds. My approach emphasizes warmth, inclusivity & acceptance; aiming to create a safe, comfortable, nonjudgemental space where you feel validated and empowered to bring about meaningful life changes. I am passionate about working with you to bring about emotional resilience, healthy communication, and adaptive coping skills to your life.
— Now Accepting New Clients — Are you ready to see yourself in a different light? Congratulations on starting this courageous process to self-discovery and healing. I enjoy helping youth and adults build healthy relationships and minds. My approach emphasizes warmth, inclusivity & acceptance; aiming to create a safe, comfortable, nonjudgemental space where you feel validated and empowered to bring about meaningful life changes. I am passionate about working with you to bring about emotional resilience, healthy communication, and adaptive coping skills to your life.
(343) 453-4739 View (343) 453-4739

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.