Personality Disorders Therapists in San Diego, CA

Photo of Gaelle Carey, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Gaelle Carey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
I have experience providing clinical assessment and therapeutic care to adolescents and adults seeking help with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use disorders, anger management, Post-traumatic stress disorder, Personality Disorders, ADHD management, and LGBTQ+ issues.
I am a therapist who is assertive in my communication style. I work to provide a safe and supportive environment for my clients, where they can explore their thoughts and feelings. I have experience working with people from all walks of life, and I strive to create an open and honest relationship with each person that I work with.
I have experience providing clinical assessment and therapeutic care to adolescents and adults seeking help with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use disorders, anger management, Post-traumatic stress disorder, Personality Disorders, ADHD management, and LGBTQ+ issues.
I am a therapist who is assertive in my communication style. I work to provide a safe and supportive environment for my clients, where they can explore their thoughts and feelings. I have experience working with people from all walks of life, and I strive to create an open and honest relationship with each person that I work with.
(619) 329-8438 View (619) 329-8438
Photo of Asher Johnson, Psychologist, PhD
Asher Johnson
Psychologist, PhD
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92101
If you struggle with anger management, sexual aggression, sex/pornography addiction, poor self-regulation/impulse control, anxiety, depression, trauma, antisocial, narcissistic, and psychopathic/sociopathic personalities, in need of a forensic psychological evaluation or testing, have a criminal record and/or required to register as a sex offender, have adult ADHD, difficulty with maintaining healthy relationships, low self-esteem, problems with healthy masculine expression, then you have found someone with the expertise, ability, and willingness to help.
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist, US Navy veteran, and former police officer. Being bi-racial, I welcome the experiences of various walks of life. Those ten years of civil service taught me about the resilience and fragility of the human psyche, which sparked my passion for mental health as it applies to human behavior. I believe in hope and redemption.
If you struggle with anger management, sexual aggression, sex/pornography addiction, poor self-regulation/impulse control, anxiety, depression, trauma, antisocial, narcissistic, and psychopathic/sociopathic personalities, in need of a forensic psychological evaluation or testing, have a criminal record and/or required to register as a sex offender, have adult ADHD, difficulty with maintaining healthy relationships, low self-esteem, problems with healthy masculine expression, then you have found someone with the expertise, ability, and willingness to help.
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist, US Navy veteran, and former police officer. Being bi-racial, I welcome the experiences of various walks of life. Those ten years of civil service taught me about the resilience and fragility of the human psyche, which sparked my passion for mental health as it applies to human behavior. I believe in hope and redemption.
(619) 815-8501 View (619) 815-8501
Photo of Darrin Dennis, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Darrin Dennis
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Online Only
I work with teens and adults ages 15 and up, (and couples) specializing in personality disorders, mood disorders, and faith or spirituality crises.
Struggling with intense emotions, mood shifts, or questioning your faith can leave you feeling unmoored and searching for solid ground. These experiences aren’t about weakness—they reflect the real complexity of living and growing. I’m motivated by the opportunity to walk alongside my clients with compassion and collaboration, and I continue to be inspired by the strength and courage it takes to lean into change. Watching people grow into their authentic selves is one of the most powerful parts of this work.
I work with teens and adults ages 15 and up, (and couples) specializing in personality disorders, mood disorders, and faith or spirituality crises.
Struggling with intense emotions, mood shifts, or questioning your faith can leave you feeling unmoored and searching for solid ground. These experiences aren’t about weakness—they reflect the real complexity of living and growing. I’m motivated by the opportunity to walk alongside my clients with compassion and collaboration, and I continue to be inspired by the strength and courage it takes to lean into change. Watching people grow into their authentic selves is one of the most powerful parts of this work.
(858) 428-2978 View (858) 428-2978
Photo of Jessica Arneson, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Jessica Arneson
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Online Only
I work with people who are coming to therapy for issues related to trauma, anxiety, and personality disorders.
Thank you for checking out my profile! My name is Jessica and I am an LPCC (licensed professional clinical counselor, just a fancy title for a licensed therapist) in California. I have a Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a PhD in Psychology. I am certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), trauma treatments, and burnout/compassion fatigue treatments. The first thing we work on, no matter your reason for coming to therapy, is establishing a trusting relationship where you feel comfortable and safe. We will work together on coping skills you can use in your day-to-day to better manage any symptoms that arise.
I work with people who are coming to therapy for issues related to trauma, anxiety, and personality disorders.
Thank you for checking out my profile! My name is Jessica and I am an LPCC (licensed professional clinical counselor, just a fancy title for a licensed therapist) in California. I have a Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a PhD in Psychology. I am certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), trauma treatments, and burnout/compassion fatigue treatments. The first thing we work on, no matter your reason for coming to therapy, is establishing a trusting relationship where you feel comfortable and safe. We will work together on coping skills you can use in your day-to-day to better manage any symptoms that arise.
(747) 588-6707 View (747) 588-6707
Photo of Priscilla Kavanagh, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Priscilla Kavanagh
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Online Only
She has a background working with personality disorders, bipolar, PTSD, psychosis, depression, grief/loss, self-esteem, anxiety, and other mental health concerns.
Priscilla Kavanagh is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who offers psychotherapy to anyone interested in healing. She aspires to help individuals gain insight, awareness, knowledge, and practical tools to promote healing and change by the unveiling of one’s heart. Priscilla has found that faith can be incredibly therapeutic and empowering. It really is the foundation of our hope. And without hope, there is no recovery.
She has a background working with personality disorders, bipolar, PTSD, psychosis, depression, grief/loss, self-esteem, anxiety, and other mental health concerns.
Priscilla Kavanagh is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who offers psychotherapy to anyone interested in healing. She aspires to help individuals gain insight, awareness, knowledge, and practical tools to promote healing and change by the unveiling of one’s heart. Priscilla has found that faith can be incredibly therapeutic and empowering. It really is the foundation of our hope. And without hope, there is no recovery.
(747) 277-8929 View (747) 277-8929
Photo of Marisa Farnsworth, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Marisa Farnsworth
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Online Only
Encouraging and reinforcing positive self-talk and experiences, teaching problem-solving strategies to support independence, and increasing self-esteem are my biggest strengths and are effective in combating depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and personality disorders.
My name is Marisa and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I believe that you deserve a compassionate therapist, someone you can connect with and feel safe, supported, and understood as you move through the healing process. I love helping others discover and feel comfortable and accepting of their true selves without judgment. Utilizing an integrated and collaborative approach to therapy puts your role as the expert of your own life and my role as a guide to highlight your strengths and provide support. My goal is to empower you by helping you develop tools, skills, and strategies to achieve your goals.
Encouraging and reinforcing positive self-talk and experiences, teaching problem-solving strategies to support independence, and increasing self-esteem are my biggest strengths and are effective in combating depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and personality disorders.
My name is Marisa and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I believe that you deserve a compassionate therapist, someone you can connect with and feel safe, supported, and understood as you move through the healing process. I love helping others discover and feel comfortable and accepting of their true selves without judgment. Utilizing an integrated and collaborative approach to therapy puts your role as the expert of your own life and my role as a guide to highlight your strengths and provide support. My goal is to empower you by helping you develop tools, skills, and strategies to achieve your goals.
(657) 837-6749 View (657) 837-6749
Photo of Ashley Dawn Newman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LCSW
Ashley Dawn Newman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LCSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I specialize in certain mental health diagnoses including personality disorders, postpartum issues, depression/anxiety, self harm/suicidal ideation.
My specialty is in mental health and substance use (dual diagnosis). I'm DBT certified. I have worked with individuals impacted by cycles of trauma, violence, and substances in various settings including psychiatric hospitals, county jail, intensive outpatient programs, and outpatient clinics. My mission? Help people THRIVE and be SEEN/HEARD
I specialize in certain mental health diagnoses including personality disorders, postpartum issues, depression/anxiety, self harm/suicidal ideation.
My specialty is in mental health and substance use (dual diagnosis). I'm DBT certified. I have worked with individuals impacted by cycles of trauma, violence, and substances in various settings including psychiatric hospitals, county jail, intensive outpatient programs, and outpatient clinics. My mission? Help people THRIVE and be SEEN/HEARD
(909) 362-8213 View (909) 362-8213
Photo of Patricia Bitar - Personality Disorders/Panic Attacks.Patricia Bitar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Personality Disorders/Panic Attacks.Patricia Bitar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I work with clients struggling with life transitions, trauma, relationships, personality disorders, anxiety and mood disorders.
Life is challenging and can be full of suffering but finding liberation from suffering is always available to us. I'm here to support you through your journey. Acknowledging the highs and lows of life is where we can begin to support your inner self. For the last 7 years, I have been helping clients heal from diverse mental health challenges. I use a combination of cognitive/behavioral tools, energy healing techniques, and mindfulness to empower clients. I believe in a holistic approach to therapy because not one size treatment model fits all.
I work with clients struggling with life transitions, trauma, relationships, personality disorders, anxiety and mood disorders.
Life is challenging and can be full of suffering but finding liberation from suffering is always available to us. I'm here to support you through your journey. Acknowledging the highs and lows of life is where we can begin to support your inner self. For the last 7 years, I have been helping clients heal from diverse mental health challenges. I use a combination of cognitive/behavioral tools, energy healing techniques, and mindfulness to empower clients. I believe in a holistic approach to therapy because not one size treatment model fits all.
(747) 774-7185 View (747) 774-7185
Photo of Reina Remigio, Psychologist, PhD
Reina Remigio
Psychologist, PhD
Online Only
Often, an overcontrolled coping style is central to conditions such as chronic anxiety/depression, eating disorders, and personality disorders like obsessive-compulsive and avoidant personalities.
Through compassionate, trauma- and identity-responsive collaboration with clients, and intensive training in RO DBT, an evidence-based treatment designed specifically for overcontrol, individuals, couples, and families, are able to get unstuck; beyond that, they begin to live a life that is increasingly authentic, meaningfully connected, and effective.
Often, an overcontrolled coping style is central to conditions such as chronic anxiety/depression, eating disorders, and personality disorders like obsessive-compulsive and avoidant personalities.
Through compassionate, trauma- and identity-responsive collaboration with clients, and intensive training in RO DBT, an evidence-based treatment designed specifically for overcontrol, individuals, couples, and families, are able to get unstuck; beyond that, they begin to live a life that is increasingly authentic, meaningfully connected, and effective.
(341) 899-1605 View (341) 899-1605
Photo of Mikayla Weathers, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Mikayla Weathers
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Online Only
I have training in personality disorders, attachment ruptures, trauma, systemic family therapy, & substance related disorders.
I believe through a therapeutic & safe relationship, you will have the ability to work though past & current struggles. Whether you find yourself having trouble in your relationships, are dealing with a substance related issue, are desiring a better connection with yourself, or are struggling with trauma, I know I can help you, help yourself. My passion is walking along side those suffering to encourage and support healing. I am LGBTQIA+ affirming & support those dealing with gender identity/expression issues; self, family, and community acceptance; & those pre, during & post transition.
I have training in personality disorders, attachment ruptures, trauma, systemic family therapy, & substance related disorders.
I believe through a therapeutic & safe relationship, you will have the ability to work though past & current struggles. Whether you find yourself having trouble in your relationships, are dealing with a substance related issue, are desiring a better connection with yourself, or are struggling with trauma, I know I can help you, help yourself. My passion is walking along side those suffering to encourage and support healing. I am LGBTQIA+ affirming & support those dealing with gender identity/expression issues; self, family, and community acceptance; & those pre, during & post transition.
(619) 350-4755 View (619) 350-4755
Photo of Jay Alarcon, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Jay Alarcon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
San Diego, CA 92120
I specialize in DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and AEDP (Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy) for the treatment of especially difficult to treat issues such as: PTSD, Severe Depression, Eating Disorders, Self-Harm, Suicidal Ideation, and Personality Disorders.
Coming to therapy can feel vulnerable and scary, but it is a brave step towards the life you want and deserve. I am guided by evidence based techniques, educated insight, and genuine curiosity. I work to nurture my clients’ sensitivities, strengths, hopes, and desires for a meaningful and fulfilling existence. I help individuals tap into their inner strength and thrive, to connect to their passions, couples seeking effective communication techniques and highly sensitive people understand their trait and harness their superpower! I support individuals from diverse backgrounds and sexual orientations, navigate cultural challenges
I specialize in DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and AEDP (Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy) for the treatment of especially difficult to treat issues such as: PTSD, Severe Depression, Eating Disorders, Self-Harm, Suicidal Ideation, and Personality Disorders.
Coming to therapy can feel vulnerable and scary, but it is a brave step towards the life you want and deserve. I am guided by evidence based techniques, educated insight, and genuine curiosity. I work to nurture my clients’ sensitivities, strengths, hopes, and desires for a meaningful and fulfilling existence. I help individuals tap into their inner strength and thrive, to connect to their passions, couples seeking effective communication techniques and highly sensitive people understand their trait and harness their superpower! I support individuals from diverse backgrounds and sexual orientations, navigate cultural challenges
(858) 360-8251 View (858) 360-8251
Photo of Julia Mendoza, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Julia Mendoza
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
San Diego, CA 92110
I have experience working with children and adults, in the areas of depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, LGBT+ issues, OCD, personality disorders, family problems, relationship and partner conflict, and traumas.
I am one of the few therapists in the area that offers TEXTING, email and VIDEO therapy sessions. Call me for more details, or check my website at www.juliamendozalmft.com
I have experience working with children and adults, in the areas of depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, LGBT+ issues, OCD, personality disorders, family problems, relationship and partner conflict, and traumas.
I am one of the few therapists in the area that offers TEXTING, email and VIDEO therapy sessions. Call me for more details, or check my website at www.juliamendozalmft.com
(951) 438-7873 View (951) 438-7873
Photo of Erika Lopez, Psychologist, LCP
Erika Lopez
Psychologist, LCP
Online Only
I have an extensive history working with individuals struggling with issues including, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, and personality disorders.
People seek psychotherapy for a variety of reasons, which may include intense and persistent sadness, prolonged stress, anxiety, relationship issues, marital distress, etc. Usually, resources such as the help of friends and family have not been enough to help resolve these issues.
I have an extensive history working with individuals struggling with issues including, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, and personality disorders.
People seek psychotherapy for a variety of reasons, which may include intense and persistent sadness, prolonged stress, anxiety, relationship issues, marital distress, etc. Usually, resources such as the help of friends and family have not been enough to help resolve these issues.
(619) 975-4236 View (619) 975-4236
Photo of Eddie A Quintana, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MS
Eddie A Quintana
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MS
Online Only
I have been humbled to work in a variety of different roles, settings, and with people of different diagnosis from addiction, suicide, depression, autism, anxiety, personality disorders, compulsion and psychotic disorders.
My Philosophy is simple, start where you are at in the process. My approach is to work with you and together we would develop goals and expectations on what you want to work on. It is a collaborative effort in order to help you make progress and sustain change once progress is made. Even though I'm seen as the professional, to me your're the professional of you're life and its my job to help guide you into a place where you feel comfortable. For further info please check out my website at quintanacounseling.com.
I have been humbled to work in a variety of different roles, settings, and with people of different diagnosis from addiction, suicide, depression, autism, anxiety, personality disorders, compulsion and psychotic disorders.
My Philosophy is simple, start where you are at in the process. My approach is to work with you and together we would develop goals and expectations on what you want to work on. It is a collaborative effort in order to help you make progress and sustain change once progress is made. Even though I'm seen as the professional, to me your're the professional of you're life and its my job to help guide you into a place where you feel comfortable. For further info please check out my website at quintanacounseling.com.
(858) 956-7836 View (858) 956-7836
Photo of Jordan D Danly, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Jordan D Danly
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
4 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92121
I have extensive experience working with mood/anxiety disorders, personality disorders, gender issues, and high conflict couples.
I provide comprehensive Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) for adults and adolescents with difficulty regulating emotions, maintaining healthy and close relationships, and tolerating distress. I have experience and training working with those who have thoughts or urges for suicide and self harm. I want to help you build the life you have always desired! I am also a trained Gender Therapist and enjoy working with gender-expansive and transgender youth and adults seeking support for their gender identity and/or transition process. In addition, I am a Level 2 Gottman trained Couples Therapist.
I have extensive experience working with mood/anxiety disorders, personality disorders, gender issues, and high conflict couples.
I provide comprehensive Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) for adults and adolescents with difficulty regulating emotions, maintaining healthy and close relationships, and tolerating distress. I have experience and training working with those who have thoughts or urges for suicide and self harm. I want to help you build the life you have always desired! I am also a trained Gender Therapist and enjoy working with gender-expansive and transgender youth and adults seeking support for their gender identity and/or transition process. In addition, I am a Level 2 Gottman trained Couples Therapist.
(858) 252-0503 View (858) 252-0503
Photo of Katie Tran Aguiar, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Katie Tran Aguiar
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
I specialize in young adults, adults, couples, and families with emphasis on trauma, anxiety/depression, life transitions, and other personality disorders.
Being an immigrant, I have a deep understanding of language barriers and cultural differences, which can be traumatic. I want to help you navigate these challenges you might experience in our complex social system. I use a variety of therapy methods, including solution focus brief therapy and trauma-informed care to help find the best treatment for you.
I specialize in young adults, adults, couples, and families with emphasis on trauma, anxiety/depression, life transitions, and other personality disorders.
Being an immigrant, I have a deep understanding of language barriers and cultural differences, which can be traumatic. I want to help you navigate these challenges you might experience in our complex social system. I use a variety of therapy methods, including solution focus brief therapy and trauma-informed care to help find the best treatment for you.
(619) 292-0301 View (619) 292-0301
Photo of Davis Rodríguez Meléndez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW, APTT
Davis Rodríguez Meléndez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW, APTT
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I have had the opportunity and good fortune to work with individuals, couples, and polyamorous families on a variety of issues which include, mood disorders, personality disorders, HIV, LGBT, Sexuality and Sex positivity, life transitions, cultural acculturation/assimilation, and interpersonal relationship issues.
As a clinical social worker and psychotherapist, my goal is to provide a safe environment and build relationships with my clients based on mutual trust and respect. I have a non-judgmental and affirming approach. I work with individuals, couples and other relationship constellations. I specialize in mood disorder, personality disorder, HIV, LGBT, life transitions, sexuality and cultural acculturation/assimilation. I relocated to San Diego, CA, in 2023. I am also licensed in New York, New Jersey, and Delaware. I also provide services in Spanish and Brazilian Portuguese.
I have had the opportunity and good fortune to work with individuals, couples, and polyamorous families on a variety of issues which include, mood disorders, personality disorders, HIV, LGBT, Sexuality and Sex positivity, life transitions, cultural acculturation/assimilation, and interpersonal relationship issues.
As a clinical social worker and psychotherapist, my goal is to provide a safe environment and build relationships with my clients based on mutual trust and respect. I have a non-judgmental and affirming approach. I work with individuals, couples and other relationship constellations. I specialize in mood disorder, personality disorder, HIV, LGBT, life transitions, sexuality and cultural acculturation/assimilation. I relocated to San Diego, CA, in 2023. I am also licensed in New York, New Jersey, and Delaware. I also provide services in Spanish and Brazilian Portuguese.
(619) 614-8646 View (619) 614-8646
Photo of Roxanne Cueva, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Roxanne Cueva
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Online Only
I specialize in Self-Esteem and Narcissistic Abuse Recovery.
Low self-esteem jeopardizes our everyday life. It drastically affects our confidence, limits our potential, and hinders us in our pursuit of happiness. Doubt, shame, and sadness cloud our thoughts, causing our dreams to slowly slip away from us. If that sounds familiar, I'd love to help. This space is for finding your true self, embracing it confidently, and learning to see yourself with loving eyes.
I specialize in Self-Esteem and Narcissistic Abuse Recovery.
Low self-esteem jeopardizes our everyday life. It drastically affects our confidence, limits our potential, and hinders us in our pursuit of happiness. Doubt, shame, and sadness cloud our thoughts, causing our dreams to slowly slip away from us. If that sounds familiar, I'd love to help. This space is for finding your true self, embracing it confidently, and learning to see yourself with loving eyes.
(858) 358-7920 View (858) 358-7920
Photo of Lauren Carnine, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Lauren Carnine
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Online Only
I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, personality disorders, and substance use.
My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic and dialectical behavioral counseling.
I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, personality disorders, and substance use.
My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic and dialectical behavioral counseling.
(858) 221-4703 View (858) 221-4703
Photo of Rashiri Johnson-Morales, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Rashiri Johnson-Morales
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92127
I have a passion for working with individuals with Psychosis, Personality Disorders, Anxiety, Grief, and Depression.
Hello, I'm Rashiri, an Associate Marriage Family Therapist and Navy Veteran who utilizes a person-centered approach and is dedicated to understanding what lies at the core of people, so they can feel truly seen and understood without judgement. My core value is personal growth, a trait I bring to therapy to support every individual’s own idea of growth when establishing goals in therapy. I obtained my Master’s degree in Marriage Family Therapy from National University and am currently working on my Doctoral degree at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology.
I have a passion for working with individuals with Psychosis, Personality Disorders, Anxiety, Grief, and Depression.
Hello, I'm Rashiri, an Associate Marriage Family Therapist and Navy Veteran who utilizes a person-centered approach and is dedicated to understanding what lies at the core of people, so they can feel truly seen and understood without judgement. My core value is personal growth, a trait I bring to therapy to support every individual’s own idea of growth when establishing goals in therapy. I obtained my Master’s degree in Marriage Family Therapy from National University and am currently working on my Doctoral degree at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology.
(858) 389-4889 View (858) 389-4889
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Personality Disorders Therapists

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 specializes 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.