Personality Disorders Therapists in San Jose, CA

See all therapists in San Jose
Photo of Bea Armstrong, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Bea Armstrong
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified
San Jose, CA 95117
Hi! Thanks for considering me as your therapist. Whether you are struggling with a past trauma or current relationship, I have more than 30 years of helping people learn to live the best life possible. Areas of expertise: cult recovery (religious, other); ACA, PTSD, addictions, and narcissistic relationships, grief and loss. All of us hit speed bumps -- sometimes mountains -- that keep us from moving forward. Our beliefs about how life works can block happiness. We can't always change what's happening, but we can change our perception of it. I work exclusively online. See my web site: www.beaarmstrong.com
Hi! Thanks for considering me as your therapist. Whether you are struggling with a past trauma or current relationship, I have more than 30 years of helping people learn to live the best life possible. Areas of expertise: cult recovery (religious, other); ACA, PTSD, addictions, and narcissistic relationships, grief and loss. All of us hit speed bumps -- sometimes mountains -- that keep us from moving forward. Our beliefs about how life works can block happiness. We can't always change what's happening, but we can change our perception of it. I work exclusively online. See my web site: www.beaarmstrong.com
(408) 351-1879 View (408) 351-1879
Photo of Robert E. Latimore, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Robert E. Latimore
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, JD
Verified
San Jose, CA 95112
These provide solid theoretical knowledge of mental health theories and conditions, including ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, Dissociative Disorders, Personality Disorders as well as loss and grief issues.
I am a skilled professional licensed psychotherapist, experienced in working with individuals, couples and families from diverse backgrounds, providing a full range of powerful techniques for personal change, emotional recovery, and relationship rebuilding. Begin your personal journey with me, learning how to gain control over stress, worry and perfectionism, self-defeating thoughts, and fears. Discover powerful new ways to emotionally heal, relax, refresh and renew your spirits, using my research-proven techniques. Let me help you reach your goals.
These provide solid theoretical knowledge of mental health theories and conditions, including ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, Dissociative Disorders, Personality Disorders as well as loss and grief issues.
I am a skilled professional licensed psychotherapist, experienced in working with individuals, couples and families from diverse backgrounds, providing a full range of powerful techniques for personal change, emotional recovery, and relationship rebuilding. Begin your personal journey with me, learning how to gain control over stress, worry and perfectionism, self-defeating thoughts, and fears. Discover powerful new ways to emotionally heal, relax, refresh and renew your spirits, using my research-proven techniques. Let me help you reach your goals.
(408) 465-9906 View (408) 465-9906
Photo of Kristin Lokey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Jose, CA
Kristin Lokey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified
San Jose, CA 95120
Additionally, I am skilled in approaches that work with adjusting to personality disorders as well.
Hi, my name is Kristin Lokey and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Fresno, California, and supporting clients through telehealth. I am committed to finding a supportive path to help support my clients in the progression and just help them feel better! My focus is helping clients see the root of their distress and the problems that come with it. My approach allows for internal problem-solving with the tools to work through those things.
Additionally, I am skilled in approaches that work with adjusting to personality disorders as well.
Hi, my name is Kristin Lokey and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Fresno, California, and supporting clients through telehealth. I am committed to finding a supportive path to help support my clients in the progression and just help them feel better! My focus is helping clients see the root of their distress and the problems that come with it. My approach allows for internal problem-solving with the tools to work through those things.
(408) 676-3362 View (408) 676-3362
Photo of Melinda Carlisle Brackett, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Melinda Carlisle Brackett
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified
San Jose, CA 95126
I also have a comprehensive DBT program that utilizes the most cutting edge therapy techniques for Anxiety,Depression and Personality Disorders .
Are you looking for therapy that is efficient, time-sensitive, and focused on practical strategies? I am a Behavioral Therapist whose approach includes short-term, evidence-based therapies for adults, couples, parents, adolescents and groups. My style is collaborative and includes skill-building in critical areas such as communication and relationship repair. I treat complex Mood Disorders, Anxiety, Panic, Bipolar, Depression, and Borderline Personality Disorder. I'm clear and direct- keeping our work on track so you meet your goals- while building in you the capacity for flexibility in order to have a peaceful and enjoyable life.
I also have a comprehensive DBT program that utilizes the most cutting edge therapy techniques for Anxiety,Depression and Personality Disorders .
Are you looking for therapy that is efficient, time-sensitive, and focused on practical strategies? I am a Behavioral Therapist whose approach includes short-term, evidence-based therapies for adults, couples, parents, adolescents and groups. My style is collaborative and includes skill-building in critical areas such as communication and relationship repair. I treat complex Mood Disorders, Anxiety, Panic, Bipolar, Depression, and Borderline Personality Disorder. I'm clear and direct- keeping our work on track so you meet your goals- while building in you the capacity for flexibility in order to have a peaceful and enjoyable life.
(408) 641-6424 View (408) 641-6424
Photo of Jason Wu, Psychologist in San Jose, CA
Jason Wu
Psychologist, PhD
Verified
10 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95128  (Online Only)
Though I work with most issues, I specialize in helping people recover from complex trauma. People with narcissistic , abusive, or neglectful parents or partners sometimes develop issues with trusting themselves, have difficulty maintaining close relationships, struggle with an inner critic, vacillate often between depression and anxiety, lack a solid sense of identity, or feel a sense of emptiness when their lives seem great on paper. Sometimes that trauma can even become part of one's identity - I work with clients to build insight, boundaries, self-compassion, and acceptance to free themselves from it & live more fulfilling lives.
Though I work with most issues, I specialize in helping people recover from complex trauma. People with narcissistic , abusive, or neglectful parents or partners sometimes develop issues with trusting themselves, have difficulty maintaining close relationships, struggle with an inner critic, vacillate often between depression and anxiety, lack a solid sense of identity, or feel a sense of emptiness when their lives seem great on paper. Sometimes that trauma can even become part of one's identity - I work with clients to build insight, boundaries, self-compassion, and acceptance to free themselves from it & live more fulfilling lives.
(415) 423-2518 View (415) 423-2518
Photo of Monica Lyn Brandtman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Jose, CA
Monica Lyn Brandtman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified
San Jose, CA 95131  (Online Only)
I've served clients across the age spectrum and have experience treating depression, addiction, anxiety, psychosis, adjustments to life cycle changes, relationships, personality disorders , impostor syndrome/perfectionism, body image issues, eating disorders, trauma and more.
Even in these uncertain times we all have the potential to do and feel better. It can take a creative approach in a world that keeps you guessing and the right support. I believe a safe and trusting relationship is the cornerstone of treatment and that you are the expert on your life. I'll help you define what success looks like for you and I will help you to set realistic and achievable goals to get there. I'll be your temporary co-pilot as you face life's challenges. I'll be there to share tools that will help you to live your best life.
I've served clients across the age spectrum and have experience treating depression, addiction, anxiety, psychosis, adjustments to life cycle changes, relationships, personality disorders , impostor syndrome/perfectionism, body image issues, eating disorders, trauma and more.
Even in these uncertain times we all have the potential to do and feel better. It can take a creative approach in a world that keeps you guessing and the right support. I believe a safe and trusting relationship is the cornerstone of treatment and that you are the expert on your life. I'll help you define what success looks like for you and I will help you to set realistic and achievable goals to get there. I'll be your temporary co-pilot as you face life's challenges. I'll be there to share tools that will help you to live your best life.
(408) 692-2586 View (408) 692-2586
Photo of Kelly Albrecht, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Jose, CA
Kelly Albrecht
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ASW
Verified
San Jose, CA 95129
With expertise in substance use disorder, ADHD, bipolar and personality disorders , my holistic approach to therapy prioritizes safety and healing, with trauma-informed care.
Are you struggling to process depression, anxiety, relationship/family issues, and trauma? These emotional ruptures can cause major disruptions in our lives. The work to process these types of life events is multifaceted, and I can help you identify your feelings and potential relational patterns, build tolerance and acceptance around challenging ones, and set meaningful goals. In order to do so, I utilize various therapeutic approaches consisting of ACT, CBT, and Problem-Solving Therapy, and somatic interventions.
With expertise in substance use disorder, ADHD, bipolar and personality disorders , my holistic approach to therapy prioritizes safety and healing, with trauma-informed care.
Are you struggling to process depression, anxiety, relationship/family issues, and trauma? These emotional ruptures can cause major disruptions in our lives. The work to process these types of life events is multifaceted, and I can help you identify your feelings and potential relational patterns, build tolerance and acceptance around challenging ones, and set meaningful goals. In order to do so, I utilize various therapeutic approaches consisting of ACT, CBT, and Problem-Solving Therapy, and somatic interventions.
(650) 436-4565 View (650) 436-4565
Photo of Veronica Ghabour, Counselor in San Jose, CA
Veronica Ghabour
Counselor, APCC
Verified
San Jose, CA 95129
Mental health challenges are due to the aftereffects of traumatic experiences. Trauma can place a strain on your family, work, relationships, and even cause issues with self-worth. I specialize in trauma therapy along with treating personality disorders , depression, mood disorders, anxiety, and addiction. All these disorders can look different from person to person, and that is where our therapeutic journey of empowerment and self-exploration begins. I concentrate on creating a safe space of growth and self-discovery through unconditional positive regard, emotional regulation, and guided activities.
Mental health challenges are due to the aftereffects of traumatic experiences. Trauma can place a strain on your family, work, relationships, and even cause issues with self-worth. I specialize in trauma therapy along with treating personality disorders , depression, mood disorders, anxiety, and addiction. All these disorders can look different from person to person, and that is where our therapeutic journey of empowerment and self-exploration begins. I concentrate on creating a safe space of growth and self-discovery through unconditional positive regard, emotional regulation, and guided activities.
(650) 910-4414 View (650) 910-4414
Photo of Kristine Villanueva, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Kristine Villanueva
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified
San Jose, CA 95120
My name is Kristine Villanueva, and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (MFT 91314) providing therapy to adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. I value a person-centered approach and provide a non-judgmental and supportive environment for growth and healing. I typically work with individuals with anxiety, depression, survivors of trauma, or individuals diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders .
My name is Kristine Villanueva, and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (MFT 91314) providing therapy to adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. I value a person-centered approach and provide a non-judgmental and supportive environment for growth and healing. I typically work with individuals with anxiety, depression, survivors of trauma, or individuals diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders .
(949) 806-5160 View (949) 806-5160
Photo of Aimee Mikalinis, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Aimee Mikalinis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified
San Jose, CA 95118
Hi there, I'm Aimee! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I was a peer counselor in high school and have worked in some form of mental health care for 16 years. I typically work with adolescents, adults, and mature adults. I am most comfortable treating PTSD, other trauma and stressor-related disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders , self-harm, dissociative disorders, and paraphilic disorders. I most commonly use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy as my therapeutic approach. I am also well-trained in CBT, EMDR, and Strength-based therapy. I am also a registered Art Therapist and I specialize in trauma.
Hi there, I'm Aimee! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I was a peer counselor in high school and have worked in some form of mental health care for 16 years. I typically work with adolescents, adults, and mature adults. I am most comfortable treating PTSD, other trauma and stressor-related disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders , self-harm, dissociative disorders, and paraphilic disorders. I most commonly use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy as my therapeutic approach. I am also well-trained in CBT, EMDR, and Strength-based therapy. I am also a registered Art Therapist and I specialize in trauma.
(310) 596-1849 View (310) 596-1849
Photo of Sara Helseth, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Sara Helseth
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified
San Jose, CA 95148
I enjoy working with pre-teens, adolescents, and young adults dealing with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, personality disorders , and life transitions.
My name is Sara Helseth, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the state of California working with clients statewide via Telehealth. I work with pre-teens, adolescents, and young adults, specializing in anxiety, depression, life transitions, and serious mental illness. I use Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and a strengths-based approach to help my clients face the challenges of life with the confidence and tools these therapies provide.
I enjoy working with pre-teens, adolescents, and young adults dealing with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, personality disorders , and life transitions.
My name is Sara Helseth, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the state of California working with clients statewide via Telehealth. I work with pre-teens, adolescents, and young adults, specializing in anxiety, depression, life transitions, and serious mental illness. I use Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and a strengths-based approach to help my clients face the challenges of life with the confidence and tools these therapies provide.
(909) 280-8872 View (909) 280-8872
Photo of Judy Miser, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Jose, CA
Judy Miser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified
San Jose, CA 95127
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10 years of experience working with adults and adolescents with mental health concerns, substance abuse conditions, and disabilities. I specialize in trauma, depression, anxiety, personality disorders , perinatal mood disorders, domestic violence, family conflict, and parenting. I take a psychodynamic, CBT, DBT, trauma-focused, and solution-focused approach to therapy. My passion is helping individuals reach their true potential by focusing on their strengths and abilities.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10 years of experience working with adults and adolescents with mental health concerns, substance abuse conditions, and disabilities. I specialize in trauma, depression, anxiety, personality disorders , perinatal mood disorders, domestic violence, family conflict, and parenting. I take a psychodynamic, CBT, DBT, trauma-focused, and solution-focused approach to therapy. My passion is helping individuals reach their true potential by focusing on their strengths and abilities.
(442) 248-5312 View (442) 248-5312
Photo of Tammy Casiano, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Tammy Casiano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified
San Jose, CA 95111
Most of the adults I've worked with have been diagnosed with severe and persistent mental illnesses or personality disorders .
Hello! My name is Tammy Casiano. I'm a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in California. I'm working on completing my Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology with a focus on psychological testing. I've done a lot of trauma & dissociative work. I primarily work on getting to know who you are and what your strengths are, which will be used in any approach we take. I value you as a unique individual - you are the expert & I'm your filter to figure out what is best for you.
Most of the adults I've worked with have been diagnosed with severe and persistent mental illnesses or personality disorders .
Hello! My name is Tammy Casiano. I'm a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in California. I'm working on completing my Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology with a focus on psychological testing. I've done a lot of trauma & dissociative work. I primarily work on getting to know who you are and what your strengths are, which will be used in any approach we take. I value you as a unique individual - you are the expert & I'm your filter to figure out what is best for you.
(559) 242-9083 View (559) 242-9083
Photo of Brenda Barba, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Jose, CA
Brenda Barba
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified
San Jose, CA 95126
I am so glad you are taking the first step in this journey! Now Let me introduce myself. My name is Brenda Barba, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have been in the mental health profession for 5 years, but in the field for nearly 10. I enjoy what I do and constantly continue to educate myself to provide the best service to individuals who want to grow, heal, control their emotions, increase self-awareness and confidence, and learn coping skills to reach the best version of themselves. I have worked with a wide range of mental health diagnoses including but not limited to personality disorders , bipolar disorder, PTSD, anxiety.
I am so glad you are taking the first step in this journey! Now Let me introduce myself. My name is Brenda Barba, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have been in the mental health profession for 5 years, but in the field for nearly 10. I enjoy what I do and constantly continue to educate myself to provide the best service to individuals who want to grow, heal, control their emotions, increase self-awareness and confidence, and learn coping skills to reach the best version of themselves. I have worked with a wide range of mental health diagnoses including but not limited to personality disorders , bipolar disorder, PTSD, anxiety.
(510) 871-8689 View (510) 871-8689
Photo of Matthew Ortega, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Matthew Ortega
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified
San Jose, CA 95128
Hi, I am a Marriage & Family Therapist licensed in California with over 11 years of experience working as a mental health counselor, therapist, mentor to at-risk youth, and life coach. I have worked with clients (ages 4-70+) with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, personality disorders , relationship issues, career challenges, OCD, and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced anger control issues and eating disorders.
Hi, I am a Marriage & Family Therapist licensed in California with over 11 years of experience working as a mental health counselor, therapist, mentor to at-risk youth, and life coach. I have worked with clients (ages 4-70+) with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, personality disorders , relationship issues, career challenges, OCD, and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced anger control issues and eating disorders.
(925) 633-6197 View (925) 633-6197
Photo of Claudia Sinay-Mosias, Mft Online Psychotherapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Claudia Sinay-Mosias, Mft Online Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MHS, LFMT
Verified
San Jose, CA 95125
I specialize in treating survivors of narcissistic abuse, relationship issues, anxiety and depression. I am also very interested in what it means and how to become, a fully functioning human being, emotionally, mentally, physically and spiritually. In this world that has been accelerating at a pace beyond our expectations and sometimes our ability to cope,how do we find peace, happiness and fulfillment, or at least the absence of anxiety and depression? Locked within our own personal stories lie the answer to these questions. Whatever "pathology" you present with can be turned into a "path" toward healing.
I specialize in treating survivors of narcissistic abuse, relationship issues, anxiety and depression. I am also very interested in what it means and how to become, a fully functioning human being, emotionally, mentally, physically and spiritually. In this world that has been accelerating at a pace beyond our expectations and sometimes our ability to cope,how do we find peace, happiness and fulfillment, or at least the absence of anxiety and depression? Locked within our own personal stories lie the answer to these questions. Whatever "pathology" you present with can be turned into a "path" toward healing.
(628) 600-1629 View (628) 600-1629
Photo of Deidre R Popolizio, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Deidre R Popolizio
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified
San Jose, CA 95126
Therapy offers a safe support system as you navigate some of life's more difficult challenges. Are you seeking therapy for problems including relationship issues, trauma, depression/anxiety, grief over any type of loss, chronic illness, divorce, retirement or even facing mortality? As your therapist, I will help you process events and relationships, both current and past, that influence your current challenges. Therapy is a collaborative effort and not a quick fix. Along with empathy, I offer a safe and supportive environment to discuss your concerns and take progressive steps toward adaptation and acceptance to enhance your life.
Therapy offers a safe support system as you navigate some of life's more difficult challenges. Are you seeking therapy for problems including relationship issues, trauma, depression/anxiety, grief over any type of loss, chronic illness, divorce, retirement or even facing mortality? As your therapist, I will help you process events and relationships, both current and past, that influence your current challenges. Therapy is a collaborative effort and not a quick fix. Along with empathy, I offer a safe and supportive environment to discuss your concerns and take progressive steps toward adaptation and acceptance to enhance your life.
(408) 703-5298 View (408) 703-5298
Photo of Angelita M. Pabros, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Jose, CA
Angelita M. Pabros
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95126  (Online Only)
Life is a challenge and may be overwhelming at times for you as you are suffering from depression. Even the brave step in finding emotional support through therapy may be difficult to initiate for some people. My goal is to assist clients in helping them understand that there is a process of recovery of depression and to raise their awareness that they are not alone.
Life is a challenge and may be overwhelming at times for you as you are suffering from depression. Even the brave step in finding emotional support through therapy may be difficult to initiate for some people. My goal is to assist clients in helping them understand that there is a process of recovery of depression and to raise their awareness that they are not alone.
(650) 667-7872 x425 View (650) 667-7872 x425
Photo of Simi Bhaurla, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in San Jose, CA
Simi Bhaurla
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified
San Jose, CA 95126  (Online Only)
Struggling with mental health is a difficult task to handle alone. With my clients, not only do I listen to their story I also teach clients coping skills to help them manage their symptoms. My clients typically experience anxiety, depression, substance use issues, or are struggling with difficult life transitions. I provide clients with the tools they need to help improve their lives and become the best version of themselves. The most important part of this process is to find the right therapist for you. Feel free to send me an email or leave a voicemail and we can see if we would be a good fit for each other!
Struggling with mental health is a difficult task to handle alone. With my clients, not only do I listen to their story I also teach clients coping skills to help them manage their symptoms. My clients typically experience anxiety, depression, substance use issues, or are struggling with difficult life transitions. I provide clients with the tools they need to help improve their lives and become the best version of themselves. The most important part of this process is to find the right therapist for you. Feel free to send me an email or leave a voicemail and we can see if we would be a good fit for each other!
(408) 413-4512 View (408) 413-4512
Photo of Rahel Sandra Price, Psychologist in San Jose, CA
Rahel Sandra Price
Psychologist, PhD
Verified
San Jose, CA 95101  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Hi I am Dr. Rahel Price, a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience. I have received my training and earned a Ph.D. at the University of Zurich, Switzerland and at the Professional School for Psychology in San Diego and am fluent in English and German. I am trained in a variety of evidence based treatment approaches providing mental including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Treatment, Motivational Interviewing as well as Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy and has experience working with a broad variety of concerns and issues.
Hi I am Dr. Rahel Price, a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience. I have received my training and earned a Ph.D. at the University of Zurich, Switzerland and at the Professional School for Psychology in San Diego and am fluent in English and German. I am trained in a variety of evidence based treatment approaches providing mental including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Treatment, Motivational Interviewing as well as Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy and has experience working with a broad variety of concerns and issues.
(831) 304-3753 View (831) 304-3753

See more therapy options for San Jose

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.