Personality Disorders Therapists in Miami, FL

Photo of Lynnell Moss, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lynnell Moss
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33130  (Online Only)
I am board certified psychotherapist with 20+ years of education, 10+ years as a clinician. I have advanced training and experience in the management and treatment of: Trauma and PTSD, Borderline personality Disorder, Personality Disorder ( Paranoid, Histrionic, Narcissistic, Avoidant, Schizoid, Schizotypal), Bipolar Disorder Anger.
I am board certified psychotherapist with 20+ years of education, 10+ years as a clinician. I have advanced training and experience in the management and treatment of: Trauma and PTSD, Borderline personality Disorder, Personality Disorder ( Paranoid, Histrionic, Narcissistic, Avoidant, Schizoid, Schizotypal), Bipolar Disorder Anger.
(786) 713-1642 View (786) 713-1642
Photo of Kristy Mena Kolev, LMHC, Counselor
Kristy Mena Kolev
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33137
As a Licensed Mental Counselor, I have worked in several different levels of care ranging from outpatient services, in-home therapy, residential and partial hospitalization. My experience has provided me with extensive knowledge in crisis management and effective treatment with a wide range of issues such as eating disorders, anxiety, depression, personality disorders, OCD, impulsive behavior, trauma, self-esteem and body image issues. I currently provide individual therapy, group therapy and family consultation to address individual behaviors and family dynamics that lead to dysfunction.
As a Licensed Mental Counselor, I have worked in several different levels of care ranging from outpatient services, in-home therapy, residential and partial hospitalization. My experience has provided me with extensive knowledge in crisis management and effective treatment with a wide range of issues such as eating disorders, anxiety, depression, personality disorders, OCD, impulsive behavior, trauma, self-esteem and body image issues. I currently provide individual therapy, group therapy and family consultation to address individual behaviors and family dynamics that lead to dysfunction.
(305) 676-2323 x4 View (305) 676-2323 x4
Photo of Michael C Thompson, MA, LPC
Michael C Thompson
MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33130  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping people with addictive behaviors, depression, personality disorders, persistent mental illness, anxiety, life changes, low self-esteem, relationship issues, and finding their identity and purpose.
Empowering Your Journey to Mental Well-Being: I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over ten years of experience assisting individuals and couples in navigating difficult times. I believe in the power of personal autonomy and self-determination, and my mission is to assist you in attaining optimal mental health, emotional well-being, and personal empowerment. I create a safe space in therapy for you to freely explore your thoughts and feelings, discover your strengths, and overcome any obstacles in your path.
I specialize in helping people with addictive behaviors, depression, personality disorders, persistent mental illness, anxiety, life changes, low self-esteem, relationship issues, and finding their identity and purpose.
Empowering Your Journey to Mental Well-Being: I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over ten years of experience assisting individuals and couples in navigating difficult times. I believe in the power of personal autonomy and self-determination, and my mission is to assist you in attaining optimal mental health, emotional well-being, and personal empowerment. I create a safe space in therapy for you to freely explore your thoughts and feelings, discover your strengths, and overcome any obstacles in your path.
(512) 200-2256 View (512) 200-2256
Photo of Alissa Vitale, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Alissa Vitale
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33143  (Online Only)
I am passionate about exploring and understanding personality disorders, trauma, and effective emotion management.
Welcome to a space where healing begins and personal growth thrives! As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I am here to offer you a warm embrace on your journey to well-being. Whether you're navigating the complexities of eating disorders, overcoming trauma, managing anxiety, or healing from narcissistic abuse, this is a place where you're heard and understood. My focus on eating disorders allows me to provide specialized support for those seeking to develop a healthier relationship with food and their bodies. Considering the complexities surrounding these issues, I offer a non-judgmental space for exploration and growth.
I am passionate about exploring and understanding personality disorders, trauma, and effective emotion management.
Welcome to a space where healing begins and personal growth thrives! As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I am here to offer you a warm embrace on your journey to well-being. Whether you're navigating the complexities of eating disorders, overcoming trauma, managing anxiety, or healing from narcissistic abuse, this is a place where you're heard and understood. My focus on eating disorders allows me to provide specialized support for those seeking to develop a healthier relationship with food and their bodies. Considering the complexities surrounding these issues, I offer a non-judgmental space for exploration and growth.
(929) 309-2301 View (929) 309-2301
Photo of E Laverne Williams, LMHC, Counselor
E Laverne Williams
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33130  (Online Only)
I have been successful and quite effective in working with Addictions, Individuals, Couples, Families, school issues, Christian Counseling, and personality disorders.
I am a mental health clinician. I have worked in the field of mental health for 28 years. I am a retired public school educator/administrator, 48 years! I am an American Red Cross volunteer, 12 years. I volunteer in Disaster Mental Health, Services to the Armed Forces, Yellow Ribbons, as well as facilitate Reconnection Workshops for Deployed and Re-Deployed soldiers and veterans.
I have been successful and quite effective in working with Addictions, Individuals, Couples, Families, school issues, Christian Counseling, and personality disorders.
I am a mental health clinician. I have worked in the field of mental health for 28 years. I am a retired public school educator/administrator, 48 years! I am an American Red Cross volunteer, 12 years. I volunteer in Disaster Mental Health, Services to the Armed Forces, Yellow Ribbons, as well as facilitate Reconnection Workshops for Deployed and Re-Deployed soldiers and veterans.
(407) 720-9135 View (407) 720-9135
Photo of Kanilina Clerge, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kanilina Clerge
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33179
Starting counseling with a new therapist can be intimidating so I want to take the time to tell you about myself and my approach to counseling. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with extensive experience working with individuals, couples, and families. I take a collaborative role to counseling and individualize treatment to fit your unique needs. I understand your mental health journey is unique to you and treatment should be tailored to meet those unique needs. I specialize in childhood trauma, emotional dysregulation, personality disorders, marital issues, couples counseling, and pre-marital counseling.
Starting counseling with a new therapist can be intimidating so I want to take the time to tell you about myself and my approach to counseling. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with extensive experience working with individuals, couples, and families. I take a collaborative role to counseling and individualize treatment to fit your unique needs. I understand your mental health journey is unique to you and treatment should be tailored to meet those unique needs. I specialize in childhood trauma, emotional dysregulation, personality disorders, marital issues, couples counseling, and pre-marital counseling.
(813) 686-5942 View (813) 686-5942
Photo of Vannia Arana, MA, RMHCI
Vannia Arana
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MA, RMHCI
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33101
I have a particular interest in helping those who are dealing with narcissistic relationships and are looking for the meaning of life.
Have you ever found yourself wishing your life looked different? A different job, a different relationship, or different circumstances? Chronic issues can wear a person down and keep you in fight/flight/freeze. If you have experienced toxic relationships, then you understand how difficult it is to trust again. If you have experienced trauma, then you know how triggers can disrupt your day. No matter what stage of life you are in, therapy can help you get unstuck from debilitating thoughts and emotions. Having a compassionate and knowledgeable therapist can make all the difference!
I have a particular interest in helping those who are dealing with narcissistic relationships and are looking for the meaning of life.
Have you ever found yourself wishing your life looked different? A different job, a different relationship, or different circumstances? Chronic issues can wear a person down and keep you in fight/flight/freeze. If you have experienced toxic relationships, then you understand how difficult it is to trust again. If you have experienced trauma, then you know how triggers can disrupt your day. No matter what stage of life you are in, therapy can help you get unstuck from debilitating thoughts and emotions. Having a compassionate and knowledgeable therapist can make all the difference!
(954) 419-3157 View (954) 419-3157
Photo of Noel James, LMHC, Counselor
Noel James
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33196
Hello, my name is Noel James and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida with over 20 years of experience providing counseling and psycho-therapy. I have a dual master's degree in Mental Health Counseling and School Guidance Counseling. I work with clients who suffer from all different types of psychological disorders, including mood and anxiety disorders, Psychotic and personality disorders, trauma, and stress-related disorders, Behavioral and sexual disorders.
Hello, my name is Noel James and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida with over 20 years of experience providing counseling and psycho-therapy. I have a dual master's degree in Mental Health Counseling and School Guidance Counseling. I work with clients who suffer from all different types of psychological disorders, including mood and anxiety disorders, Psychotic and personality disorders, trauma, and stress-related disorders, Behavioral and sexual disorders.
(786) 692-4213 View (786) 692-4213
Photo of Dr. Amanda Clark, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Amanda Clark
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33131
I have experience delivering treatment for a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, personality disorders, life transitions, relationship difficulties, stress and burnout, work/life integration, navigating identity, grief/loss, and insomnia/sleep difficulties, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, and treatment-resistant depression.
This may be your first time reaching out for help, which can feel really anxiety-provoking. Whether you desire to gain a deeper understanding of yourself, improve your relationships, live a more fulfilled life, or address specific concerns, you are not alone and I can help you. I place a heavy emphasis on creating a non-judgmental, warm, and supportive space for you to address what may be weighing on you. You may find that you prefer a more directive approach where I offer more guidance or specific skills, or a more non-directive approach where you lead the way and together we explore your different feelings, thoughts, and values.
I have experience delivering treatment for a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, personality disorders, life transitions, relationship difficulties, stress and burnout, work/life integration, navigating identity, grief/loss, and insomnia/sleep difficulties, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, and treatment-resistant depression.
This may be your first time reaching out for help, which can feel really anxiety-provoking. Whether you desire to gain a deeper understanding of yourself, improve your relationships, live a more fulfilled life, or address specific concerns, you are not alone and I can help you. I place a heavy emphasis on creating a non-judgmental, warm, and supportive space for you to address what may be weighing on you. You may find that you prefer a more directive approach where I offer more guidance or specific skills, or a more non-directive approach where you lead the way and together we explore your different feelings, thoughts, and values.
(786) 460-7576 View (786) 460-7576
Photo of Lauren Mackie, LMSW
Lauren Mackie
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33131  (Online Only)
I fundamentally believe everyone, given the right tools, has the ability to thrive and fully experience life. Using DBT, I will immediately provide you with transformative skills to navigate stressful life circumstances, adapt to and stabilize dysregulated emotions, and that will encourage you to create the changes you envision. DBT is a short-term therapy, with long-term benefits. My focus is working with adolescents and adults, both individually and in groups, with mood disorders, anxiety/panic disorders, depression, suicidal thoughts or suicide attempts, schizophrenia, personality disorders, and in need of crisis intervention.
I fundamentally believe everyone, given the right tools, has the ability to thrive and fully experience life. Using DBT, I will immediately provide you with transformative skills to navigate stressful life circumstances, adapt to and stabilize dysregulated emotions, and that will encourage you to create the changes you envision. DBT is a short-term therapy, with long-term benefits. My focus is working with adolescents and adults, both individually and in groups, with mood disorders, anxiety/panic disorders, depression, suicidal thoughts or suicide attempts, schizophrenia, personality disorders, and in need of crisis intervention.
(929) 207-6956 View (929) 207-6956
Photo of Jenniffer M Sherrill - Transcending Trauma Therapy, PhD, LMHC, Counselor
Transcending Trauma Therapy
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33155  (Online Only)
Holding a Doctorate in Human Behavior and a Master's in Mental Health Counseling, our practice specializes in trauma therapy for adults with PTSD, anxiety, personality disorders, and depression.
Our ideal client is someone facing the challenges of trauma, PTSD, C-PTSD, or navigating relationship complexities, including marriage counseling needs. They are on a journey to heal from past wounds and build resilience against life's adversities. Their goal is to cultivate a balanced and fulfilling life, overcoming anxiety and depression through self-discovery and improved coping strategies. In therapy, they seek a safe space to process and grow, aspiring to transform their trauma and relationship challenges into catalysts for personal development, stronger self-esteem, and healthier, more meaningful connections.
Holding a Doctorate in Human Behavior and a Master's in Mental Health Counseling, our practice specializes in trauma therapy for adults with PTSD, anxiety, personality disorders, and depression.
Our ideal client is someone facing the challenges of trauma, PTSD, C-PTSD, or navigating relationship complexities, including marriage counseling needs. They are on a journey to heal from past wounds and build resilience against life's adversities. Their goal is to cultivate a balanced and fulfilling life, overcoming anxiety and depression through self-discovery and improved coping strategies. In therapy, they seek a safe space to process and grow, aspiring to transform their trauma and relationship challenges into catalysts for personal development, stronger self-esteem, and healthier, more meaningful connections.
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Photo of Nicole Blank Koles, PsyD, Psychologist
Nicole Blank Koles
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33129
My clinical expertise includes a range of problems including anxiety, panic, worry, depression, substance abuse, trauma and personality disorders.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist, and I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). CBT and DBT are forms of therapy that have been validated by extensive research and are proven to work. I am committed to helping people solve problems, achieve personal growth and make desired changes to enhance their lives. I provide these services in a private and peaceful environment, where I collaborate with my clients to tailor treatment to their specific needs. I am here to help you enhance your daily living through therapy that is grounded in compassion, understanding and empathy.
My clinical expertise includes a range of problems including anxiety, panic, worry, depression, substance abuse, trauma and personality disorders.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist, and I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). CBT and DBT are forms of therapy that have been validated by extensive research and are proven to work. I am committed to helping people solve problems, achieve personal growth and make desired changes to enhance their lives. I provide these services in a private and peaceful environment, where I collaborate with my clients to tailor treatment to their specific needs. I am here to help you enhance your daily living through therapy that is grounded in compassion, understanding and empathy.
(786) 207-1820 View (786) 207-1820
Photo of Larissa Duran, MS, RMHC-i, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Larissa Duran
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MS, RMHC-i
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33156
I specialize in relationships, domestic and sexual violence, narcissistic abuse, complex trauma, ptsd, adult ADHD in females, and neuro-linguistic programming (NLP). Recognizing the distinctiveness of each individual, I personalize interventions to meet their specific needs, ensuring a compassionate and tailored path to healing. My focus extends beyond addressing immediate concerns; it's about promoting transformative change and empowering clients with skills to navigate beyond our sessions. I invite you to embark on a personalized journey towards growth, self-discovery and transcendence.
I specialize in relationships, domestic and sexual violence, narcissistic abuse, complex trauma, ptsd, adult ADHD in females, and neuro-linguistic programming (NLP). Recognizing the distinctiveness of each individual, I personalize interventions to meet their specific needs, ensuring a compassionate and tailored path to healing. My focus extends beyond addressing immediate concerns; it's about promoting transformative change and empowering clients with skills to navigate beyond our sessions. I invite you to embark on a personalized journey towards growth, self-discovery and transcendence.
(786) 882-3424 View (786) 882-3424
Photo of Jennie Robinson, LGPC, RMHCI
Jennie Robinson
LGPC, RMHCI
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33131
I am passionate about working with adults and teens who may struggle with anxiety, trauma and PTSD, specific phobias, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem issues, life transitions, self-harm, dissociation, and mood and personality disorders. I use a variety of treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and I specialize in trauma work with training in both Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART). I currently have openings for clients in Florida or Maryland.
I am passionate about working with adults and teens who may struggle with anxiety, trauma and PTSD, specific phobias, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem issues, life transitions, self-harm, dissociation, and mood and personality disorders. I use a variety of treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and I specialize in trauma work with training in both Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART). I currently have openings for clients in Florida or Maryland.
(786) 891-2248 View (786) 891-2248
Photo of Dr. Tom Bonner, PhD, PA, ABPP, Psychologist
Dr. Tom Bonner
Psychologist, PhD, PA, ABPP
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33156
I have undergone advanced training in Transference Focused Psychotherapy, which research has shown to have significant long-term benefits for those suffering from personality disorders, especially narcissistic and borderline types.
I offer video or in-person sessions. Trained at Princeton, University of Miami, and University of Texas--in practice over 30 years. Board certified in clinical psychology by the American Board of Professional Psychology--a credential obtained by only 5% of all psychologists in the nation. I was President (for 2020) of the Florida Psychological Association, and past Training Director at Citrus Health Network mental health center. I'm trained to treat borderline and narcissistic personality disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, relationship conflicts, school/work underachievement, autism/Asperger's disorders, and ADHD.
I have undergone advanced training in Transference Focused Psychotherapy, which research has shown to have significant long-term benefits for those suffering from personality disorders, especially narcissistic and borderline types.
I offer video or in-person sessions. Trained at Princeton, University of Miami, and University of Texas--in practice over 30 years. Board certified in clinical psychology by the American Board of Professional Psychology--a credential obtained by only 5% of all psychologists in the nation. I was President (for 2020) of the Florida Psychological Association, and past Training Director at Citrus Health Network mental health center. I'm trained to treat borderline and narcissistic personality disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, relationship conflicts, school/work underachievement, autism/Asperger's disorders, and ADHD.
(786) 373-1719 View (786) 373-1719
Photo of Alma Lovaton Quagliato, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alma Lovaton Quagliato
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33129
It has always been our goal at The Counseling Group to help people navigate the difficult cycles of their lives by discovering their own unique abilities to heal and grow. We have specialists who treat a wide variety of problems such as depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, ADHD, PTSD,eating disorders, and personality disorders.
It has always been our goal at The Counseling Group to help people navigate the difficult cycles of their lives by discovering their own unique abilities to heal and grow. We have specialists who treat a wide variety of problems such as depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, ADHD, PTSD,eating disorders, and personality disorders.
(305) 834-4361 View (305) 834-4361
Photo of Pam Snyder, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pam Snyder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33131  (Online Only)
I work with adult children, partners and siblings of individuals with Narcissistic and Borderline Personality Disorder traits. It can be difficult to find a therapist who truly understands the impact and wounds of being raised in a home or being in a relationship with someone who has narcissistic traits or borderline traits. My work includes creating a healthy psychological separation, changing the negative internal messages, learning how to respond to others, creating healthy boundaries, stopping the legacy of distorted love and becoming your true and authentic self.
I work with adult children, partners and siblings of individuals with Narcissistic and Borderline Personality Disorder traits. It can be difficult to find a therapist who truly understands the impact and wounds of being raised in a home or being in a relationship with someone who has narcissistic traits or borderline traits. My work includes creating a healthy psychological separation, changing the negative internal messages, learning how to respond to others, creating healthy boundaries, stopping the legacy of distorted love and becoming your true and authentic self.
(720) 838-4531 View (720) 838-4531
Photo of Nicole Rojas, PsyD, Psychologist
Nicole Rojas
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33156  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of emotional and behavioral issues as well as histories of trauma and personality disorders. I have a nurturing yet directive style that helps individuals to feel at ease as they embark on their journey of exploring and understanding their unique experiences. I work collaboratively with my clients to identify their goals to aid them in building a life worth living. I believe that therapy can enrich people's lives and relationships. I have seen clients overcome challenges and dramatically improve their lives.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of emotional and behavioral issues as well as histories of trauma and personality disorders. I have a nurturing yet directive style that helps individuals to feel at ease as they embark on their journey of exploring and understanding their unique experiences. I work collaboratively with my clients to identify their goals to aid them in building a life worth living. I believe that therapy can enrich people's lives and relationships. I have seen clients overcome challenges and dramatically improve their lives.
(305) 330-9495 View (305) 330-9495
Photo of Billie Beech-Mavrantzas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Billie Beech-Mavrantzas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33133  (Online Only)
I work best with clients who suffer from mood and personality disorders.
My name is Ashley Beech-Mavrantzas, and I've been in mental health practice for 10 years. I believe that mental health is just as important as physical health and that they go hand in hand. My name is Ashley Beech-Mavrantzas, and I've been in mental health practice for 10 years. I specialize in Mood disorders, bipolar disorder, and borderline personality disorder. I also have experience in grief therapy. Furthermore, I use many modalities to treat these disorders such as DBT, CBT, and EMDR. Additionally, I use different eclectic modalities based on the client's needs.
I work best with clients who suffer from mood and personality disorders.
My name is Ashley Beech-Mavrantzas, and I've been in mental health practice for 10 years. I believe that mental health is just as important as physical health and that they go hand in hand. My name is Ashley Beech-Mavrantzas, and I've been in mental health practice for 10 years. I specialize in Mood disorders, bipolar disorder, and borderline personality disorder. I also have experience in grief therapy. Furthermore, I use many modalities to treat these disorders such as DBT, CBT, and EMDR. Additionally, I use different eclectic modalities based on the client's needs.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Victoria Bustamante Avellaneda, PsyD, Psychologist
Victoria Bustamante Avellaneda
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33134  (Online Only)
I have experience treating depression, anxiety, panic, psychosis, PTSD, trauma, abuse, relationship issues, personality disorders, and concurrent substance abuse.
After serving as a faculty member for the University of Miami, School of Medicine, and the Jackson Health System for over 20 years, I am happy to announce that I am continuing my professional journey through my private practice, providing bilingual (English / Spanish) psychological services to Florida residents via telehealth. I offer a compassionate approach to help my clients heal their emotional pain and change negative patterns to bring more enjoyment and success into their lives. In addition, I provide evidence-based interventions and holistic mind-body approaches to address the multifactorial aspects of emotional disorders.
I have experience treating depression, anxiety, panic, psychosis, PTSD, trauma, abuse, relationship issues, personality disorders, and concurrent substance abuse.
After serving as a faculty member for the University of Miami, School of Medicine, and the Jackson Health System for over 20 years, I am happy to announce that I am continuing my professional journey through my private practice, providing bilingual (English / Spanish) psychological services to Florida residents via telehealth. I offer a compassionate approach to help my clients heal their emotional pain and change negative patterns to bring more enjoyment and success into their lives. In addition, I provide evidence-based interventions and holistic mind-body approaches to address the multifactorial aspects of emotional disorders.
(305) 439-6014 View (305) 439-6014
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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.