Photo of Rachel Sutton, Psychologist in Ottawa, ON
Rachel Sutton
Psychologist, C Psych
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1S  (Online Only)
I work with adults in clinical and health psychology in both English and French.  I treat a variety of psychological issues, on their own or in combination, including depression, anxiety, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, personality disorders and trauma.  I work with clients with chronic pain or other health problems.  I also help clients with  relationship issues, work stress, identity issues, existential concerns, LGBTQ concerns, grief, self-esteem, and self-acceptance.
I work with adults in clinical and health psychology in both English and French.  I treat a variety of psychological issues, on their own or in combination, including depression, anxiety, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, personality disorders and trauma.  I work with clients with chronic pain or other health problems.  I also help clients with  relationship issues, work stress, identity issues, existential concerns, LGBTQ concerns, grief, self-esteem, and self-acceptance.
(613) 552-7893 View (613) 552-7893
Photo of Sukanya Mukherjee, Counsellor in Ottawa, ON
Sukanya Mukherjee
Counsellor, MSc, CCC, RCT-C
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1G  (Online Only)
My area of focus includes trauma (complex, PTSD, relational, attachment, childhood trauma), anxiety disorder (GAD, OCD, social anxiety), Mood disorders (Depression and Bipolar Disorder), Couples/ Relationship counselling, Personality disorders, LGBTQ+, Anger management, Grief, Stress management and Burnout, Body image, eating disorder & self-esteem.
Starting therapy and counselling takes courage and can be a significant moment in one’s life. I provide therapeutic environment that is safe, supportive, and non-judgmental, grounded in compassion and empathy, which allows you to uncover new insights and move at your own pace towards the changes you hope to create. My approach is collaborative and relational, where clients develop a long-lasting and secure connection in a safe space.
My area of focus includes trauma (complex, PTSD, relational, attachment, childhood trauma), anxiety disorder (GAD, OCD, social anxiety), Mood disorders (Depression and Bipolar Disorder), Couples/ Relationship counselling, Personality disorders, LGBTQ+, Anger management, Grief, Stress management and Burnout, Body image, eating disorder & self-esteem.
Starting therapy and counselling takes courage and can be a significant moment in one’s life. I provide therapeutic environment that is safe, supportive, and non-judgmental, grounded in compassion and empathy, which allows you to uncover new insights and move at your own pace towards the changes you hope to create. My approach is collaborative and relational, where clients develop a long-lasting and secure connection in a safe space.
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Photo of Lora Bradford, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Lora Bradford
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1B
I support clients from diverse populations in various ways - from alleviating everyday stress and anxiety to managing relationships, mood, behavior and personality disorders.
I aim to support couples and individuals struggling with life transitions, relationships and decision making, to provide empowerment and coping skills.
I support clients from diverse populations in various ways - from alleviating everyday stress and anxiety to managing relationships, mood, behavior and personality disorders.
I aim to support couples and individuals struggling with life transitions, relationships and decision making, to provide empowerment and coping skills.
(613) 777-6842 View (613) 777-6842
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 Edna Aryee Ph D, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Edna Aryee Ph D
Registered Psychotherapist, PhD, RP (Q)
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1B  (Online Only)
graduate in Counselling-Clinical Psychology from The University of Toronto providing psychotherapy to individuals & couples living with trauma, grief, personality disorders, anxiety, and depression.
Navigating the different pathways of life can be challenging, and often, no one understands your story, and you may feel lost in figuring things out on your own. I am here to SUPPORT you because you haven't come this far to stay stuck here! Like Michael Jordan, "Obstacles do not have to stop you. You don't turn around and give up if you run into a wall. You figure out how to climb, go through, or work around it." As an experienced therapist, I can challenge you to become the best version of yourself by creating a customized treatment plan to help you achieve optimal mental health. I am accepting NEW Clients (individuals & couples).
graduate in Counselling-Clinical Psychology from The University of Toronto providing psychotherapy to individuals & couples living with trauma, grief, personality disorders, anxiety, and depression.
Navigating the different pathways of life can be challenging, and often, no one understands your story, and you may feel lost in figuring things out on your own. I am here to SUPPORT you because you haven't come this far to stay stuck here! Like Michael Jordan, "Obstacles do not have to stop you. You don't turn around and give up if you run into a wall. You figure out how to climb, go through, or work around it." As an experienced therapist, I can challenge you to become the best version of yourself by creating a customized treatment plan to help you achieve optimal mental health. I am accepting NEW Clients (individuals & couples).
(437) 800-2762 View (437) 800-2762
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 Maria Pitiakoudis, Psychologist in Ottawa, ON
Maria Pitiakoudis
Psychologist, PsyD, CPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1B  (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 A Healing Path Therapy—Trauma•Relationships•Stress, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
A Healing Path Therapy—Trauma•Relationships•Stress
Registered Psychotherapist, MC, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1G
Will the abuse ever stop? Will I always be in pain? Will I ever be good enough? Will I always feel this overwhelmed? Will I ever be in a loving relationship? Will I always feel paralyzed by my emotions? These worries are exhausting. Maybe you’ve Googled things like: therapist/therapy group near me, therapy for depression, anxiety, intimacy, chronic pain, narcissistic abuse, personality disorders, grief, couples counseling, 2SLGBTQ+ friendly therapists, queer or Muslim therapist. The decision to reach out can come with a lot of emotions, especially if you’ve been let down in the past & you’re tired of feeling misunderstood or unseen.
Will the abuse ever stop? Will I always be in pain? Will I ever be good enough? Will I always feel this overwhelmed? Will I ever be in a loving relationship? Will I always feel paralyzed by my emotions? These worries are exhausting. Maybe you’ve Googled things like: therapist/therapy group near me, therapy for depression, anxiety, intimacy, chronic pain, narcissistic abuse, personality disorders, grief, couples counseling, 2SLGBTQ+ friendly therapists, queer or Muslim therapist. The decision to reach out can come with a lot of emotions, especially if you’ve been let down in the past & you’re tired of feeling misunderstood or unseen.
(289) 272-9184 View (289) 272-9184
Photo of Meagan Szwed, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Meagan Szwed
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K0A
Hi, I'm Meagan! I am most passionate about working with those struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, relationship and sexuality concerns, personality disorders, caregiver burnout, and stressed-out mamas. I work from a trauma informed, antiracist, 2slgbtqia+ ally, harm reduction, sex positive, consumer survivor informed, feminist approach. What does all that mean? It means that I appreciate and accept YOU for YOU, no matter who you are.
Hi, I'm Meagan! I am most passionate about working with those struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, relationship and sexuality concerns, personality disorders, caregiver burnout, and stressed-out mamas. I work from a trauma informed, antiracist, 2slgbtqia+ ally, harm reduction, sex positive, consumer survivor informed, feminist approach. What does all that mean? It means that I appreciate and accept YOU for YOU, no matter who you are.
(289) 379-7917 View (289) 379-7917
Photo of Andy L'Heureux, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Andy L'Heureux
Registered Psychotherapist, BSc, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1L  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with folks who are looking to heal from childhood/developmental trauma, complex PTSD, dissociation, chaotic substance use, personality disorders, and struggles related to being queer, transgender, and/or non-binary.
Therapy doesn't have to be scary! I know first-hand what it can be like to suffer in silence, longing for change, & struggling to find someone who "gets" you. If you grew up in a home where you didn't get the support that you needed, if you went through something that you feel like you have never recovered from, or if you feel like a black sheep everywhere you go, I would be happy to co-create a non-judgmental healing space where you feel seen, heard, & valued. We can work on things like learning to understand yourself, re-gaining control of your life, & appreciating the parts of you that have clawed you out of your darkest times.
I enjoy working with folks who are looking to heal from childhood/developmental trauma, complex PTSD, dissociation, chaotic substance use, personality disorders, and struggles related to being queer, transgender, and/or non-binary.
Therapy doesn't have to be scary! I know first-hand what it can be like to suffer in silence, longing for change, & struggling to find someone who "gets" you. If you grew up in a home where you didn't get the support that you needed, if you went through something that you feel like you have never recovered from, or if you feel like a black sheep everywhere you go, I would be happy to co-create a non-judgmental healing space where you feel seen, heard, & valued. We can work on things like learning to understand yourself, re-gaining control of your life, & appreciating the parts of you that have clawed you out of your darkest times.
(647) 697-4449 View (647) 697-4449
Photo of Joshua Peters, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Joshua Peters
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
2 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 DBT Karin Klassen R Psych, Psychologist in Ottawa, ON
DBT Karin Klassen R Psych
Psychologist, MSc, MPhil
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1N  (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 Magishaa Thiyagarajah, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Magishaa Thiyagarajah
Registered Psychotherapist, RP(Q), MACP, BSc
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1R  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anxiety, relationship challenges, low self-esteem, past traumas, or difficulties related to ADHD? You're not alone. With years of experience as a psychotherapist, youth counselor, mental health counselor, and clinical social worker in community health, I've worked with children, youth, and adults facing these issues.My passion lies in supporting individuals navigating the unique challenges influenced by South Asian cultures. I understand the complexities of cultural expectations and how they shape our self-perception and worldview.
Are you struggling with anxiety, relationship challenges, low self-esteem, past traumas, or difficulties related to ADHD? You're not alone. With years of experience as a psychotherapist, youth counselor, mental health counselor, and clinical social worker in community health, I've worked with children, youth, and adults facing these issues.My passion lies in supporting individuals navigating the unique challenges influenced by South Asian cultures. I understand the complexities of cultural expectations and how they shape our self-perception and worldview.
(289) 802-2636 View (289) 802-2636
Photo of Samantha Harris, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Samantha Harris
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2C
Our human experience can be challenging and unpredictable, and at times we may find ourselves feeling lost or overwhelmed. During these moments, reaching out can make all the difference. Together, let’s explore your unique circumstances and help you regain confidence in yourself and your abilities. I uphold a compassionate and non-judgemental space, valuing empathy, authenticity, and genuine connection. It has been my great privilege to work with courageous individuals as they confront anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, trauma, self-esteem, coping skills and more.
Our human experience can be challenging and unpredictable, and at times we may find ourselves feeling lost or overwhelmed. During these moments, reaching out can make all the difference. Together, let’s explore your unique circumstances and help you regain confidence in yourself and your abilities. I uphold a compassionate and non-judgemental space, valuing empathy, authenticity, and genuine connection. It has been my great privilege to work with courageous individuals as they confront anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, trauma, self-esteem, coping skills and more.
(343) 321-1226 View (343) 321-1226
Photo of Sabine Jean, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Sabine Jean
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1T  (Online Only)
As a dedicated psychotherapist, I am committed to providing a compassionate and supportive environment where individuals can explore, heal, and grow. With a deep respect for the courage it takes to seek therapy, I bring a warm, non-judgmental approach to my practice.
As a dedicated psychotherapist, I am committed to providing a compassionate and supportive environment where individuals can explore, heal, and grow. With a deep respect for the courage it takes to seek therapy, I bring a warm, non-judgmental approach to my practice.
(343) 655-3218 View (343) 655-3218
Photo of Sherridon Parcells, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Sherridon Parcells
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2H  (Online Only)
Feeling stressed, anxious or struggling with low mood and/or depression? Ready to take the initial step in feeling better? For many people at some point in their lives, they might feel that something is too challenging to manage and overcome. These situations can sometimes lead to feeling hopeless, stuck and defeated. As a registered psychotherapist, I am trained in supporting people to overcome some of life’s most challenging situations through cultivating a warm, non-judgmental, empathic and compassionate environment as well as drawing on evidence based therapeutic approaches, modalities and interventions.
Feeling stressed, anxious or struggling with low mood and/or depression? Ready to take the initial step in feeling better? For many people at some point in their lives, they might feel that something is too challenging to manage and overcome. These situations can sometimes lead to feeling hopeless, stuck and defeated. As a registered psychotherapist, I am trained in supporting people to overcome some of life’s most challenging situations through cultivating a warm, non-judgmental, empathic and compassionate environment as well as drawing on evidence based therapeutic approaches, modalities and interventions.
(343) 307-7199 View (343) 307-7199
Photo of Jeannette Robert, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Jeannette Robert
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1S  (Online Only)
My philosophy is Existential, meaning that we are free and therefore responsible for our choices, We are the authors of our lives, and we design the pathways we follow. My basic premise is that we are not victims of circumstance because, to a large extent, we are what we choose to be. Life is a cycle of transitions and experiences, presenting opportunities and challenges. Often the most important life lessons comes from our suffering. My aim is to assist people to develop their meaning and purpose, by encouraging them to explore options, in order to achieve a more meaningful existence.
My philosophy is Existential, meaning that we are free and therefore responsible for our choices, We are the authors of our lives, and we design the pathways we follow. My basic premise is that we are not victims of circumstance because, to a large extent, we are what we choose to be. Life is a cycle of transitions and experiences, presenting opportunities and challenges. Often the most important life lessons comes from our suffering. My aim is to assist people to develop their meaning and purpose, by encouraging them to explore options, in order to achieve a more meaningful existence.
(613) 801-6262 View (613) 801-6262
Photo of Shepherd Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Shepherd Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P
Experiencing a lot of stress/anxiety? Having a hard time overcoming your past? Therapy can help. We're a team of kind, passionate and experienced counsellors based in Ottawa offering psychotherapy to adult individuals online and in-person. Our goal is to help you get curious about what’s getting in the way of your mental health, and to find clarity, acceptance and motivation to start feeling better. Our work is trauma-informed and you can expect to feel safe, accepted and empowered in session. Visit our website to view our intro videos, what to expect in session, and how to book.
Experiencing a lot of stress/anxiety? Having a hard time overcoming your past? Therapy can help. We're a team of kind, passionate and experienced counsellors based in Ottawa offering psychotherapy to adult individuals online and in-person. Our goal is to help you get curious about what’s getting in the way of your mental health, and to find clarity, acceptance and motivation to start feeling better. Our work is trauma-informed and you can expect to feel safe, accepted and empowered in session. Visit our website to view our intro videos, what to expect in session, and how to book.
(343) 801-1269 View (343) 801-1269
Photo of Mary Joy Ecijan, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ottawa, ON
Mary Joy Ecijan
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1S  (Online Only)
New Clients Welcome! - Evenings & Weekends Available - Struggling with feelings of pressure, anxiety, stress, or conflict in important relationships can feel very isolating, lonely, and hopeless. You may begin to feel stuck, or turn to unhelpful ways of dealing with unwanted stress or emotions. More often than not, this takes a toll on your health, mood, relationships, and overall functioning. I want you to know that you are not alone - I can help. As a dedicated, caring professional I strive to understand and support you in addressing your unique issues, history and experience, focusing on the goals most important to you.
New Clients Welcome! - Evenings & Weekends Available - Struggling with feelings of pressure, anxiety, stress, or conflict in important relationships can feel very isolating, lonely, and hopeless. You may begin to feel stuck, or turn to unhelpful ways of dealing with unwanted stress or emotions. More often than not, this takes a toll on your health, mood, relationships, and overall functioning. I want you to know that you are not alone - I can help. As a dedicated, caring professional I strive to understand and support you in addressing your unique issues, history and experience, focusing on the goals most important to you.
(343) 512-0306 View (343) 512-0306
Photo of Siovone Rene Bourgeois, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Siovone Rene Bourgeois
Registered Social Worker, MEd, MSW , RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1Y
Navigating life can be difficult, especially when you’re in new territory. Feelings of depression or anxiety can spiral into more fears and doubts. Being a young adult brings all sorts of pressure, and most of us don’t get much education in how to make that transition. It’s common to cope by avoiding, using drugs or alcohol, or isolating. Fortunately, things can improve. Life may never be perfect, but you can learn new skills and effective ways of dealing with challenges. I work with teens and adults of all ages, and specialize in helping young adults and couples who want to feel more confident, accepted, and joyful in the world.
Navigating life can be difficult, especially when you’re in new territory. Feelings of depression or anxiety can spiral into more fears and doubts. Being a young adult brings all sorts of pressure, and most of us don’t get much education in how to make that transition. It’s common to cope by avoiding, using drugs or alcohol, or isolating. Fortunately, things can improve. Life may never be perfect, but you can learn new skills and effective ways of dealing with challenges. I work with teens and adults of all ages, and specialize in helping young adults and couples who want to feel more confident, accepted, and joyful in the world.
(343) 321-0281 View (343) 321-0281

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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.