Personality Disorders Therapists in Chicago, IL

Photo of Nicole Tyrpak - Somatic And Nervous System Trauma Healing, LCPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicole Tyrpak - Somatic And Nervous System Trauma Healing
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I specialize in working with individuals who are experiencing difficulties with traumas, their relationship with food and eating disorders, as well as mood and personality disorders.
Hi! I'm Nicole. Whether it's unraveling the impact of trauma, managing the complexities of eating disorders, or navigating the depths of depression and anxiety, I'm here to provide you with tailored, evidence-based strategies for healing.I understand the unique struggles associated with identity and stigma in the context of these conditions. I prioritize feelings of safety and belonging. Together, we'll explore ways to develop a strong and resilient sense of self, free from the burdens of societal judgment.My ultimate goal is to empower you to not only overcome your challenges but to thrive and find a path to a more fulfilling life.
I specialize in working with individuals who are experiencing difficulties with traumas, their relationship with food and eating disorders, as well as mood and personality disorders.
Hi! I'm Nicole. Whether it's unraveling the impact of trauma, managing the complexities of eating disorders, or navigating the depths of depression and anxiety, I'm here to provide you with tailored, evidence-based strategies for healing.I understand the unique struggles associated with identity and stigma in the context of these conditions. I prioritize feelings of safety and belonging. Together, we'll explore ways to develop a strong and resilient sense of self, free from the burdens of societal judgment.My ultimate goal is to empower you to not only overcome your challenges but to thrive and find a path to a more fulfilling life.
(773) 249-9314 View (773) 249-9314
Photo of Dr. Steven Jennings, MA, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dr. Steven Jennings
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Online Only
As a therapist, my focus is schizophrenia/psychosis and personality disorders.
When you are in psychological distress and someone really hears you without passing judgement, without trying to take responsibility, without trying to mold you, the impact can be profound. I strive to be authentic, accepting, and empathetic in the therapeutic relationship to provide a safe space that allows for you to be truly heard. My ideal client is one who is open to doing the difficult work. Yes, if we do the work then life becomes an opportunity to love, and live.
As a therapist, my focus is schizophrenia/psychosis and personality disorders.
When you are in psychological distress and someone really hears you without passing judgement, without trying to take responsibility, without trying to mold you, the impact can be profound. I strive to be authentic, accepting, and empathetic in the therapeutic relationship to provide a safe space that allows for you to be truly heard. My ideal client is one who is open to doing the difficult work. Yes, if we do the work then life becomes an opportunity to love, and live.
(312) 625-6604 View (312) 625-6604
Photo of Allison Fosheim, MS, LPC, LCPC, LPC-MH
Allison Fosheim
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCPC, LPC-MH
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi, my name is Allison and I am a mental health therapist licensed in Texas, Illinois, South Dakota, Georgia, and Florida. I most enjoy working with people who experience high emotion dysregulation. These might include people with personality disorders, self-harm, ADHD, PTSD, anger issues, anxiety, and/or depression. I help my clients learn skills to gain control over their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors so they can build successful lives.
Hi, my name is Allison and I am a mental health therapist licensed in Texas, Illinois, South Dakota, Georgia, and Florida. I most enjoy working with people who experience high emotion dysregulation. These might include people with personality disorders, self-harm, ADHD, PTSD, anger issues, anxiety, and/or depression. I help my clients learn skills to gain control over their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors so they can build successful lives.
(224) 243-7257 View (224) 243-7257
Photo of Lauren Ewart - Lauren Ewart - Trauma, Psychosis & Somatic Healing, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauren Ewart - Trauma, Psychosis & Somatic Healing
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have experience supporting people through more complex challenges, like psychosis, trauma, and personality disorders.
Hi, I’m Lauren! I’m all about helping people take charge of their mental health and live their best lives. I’m here to support you in a way that works for you, because everyone’s journey is unique. My goal is to help you heal, grow, and feel more at peace with yourself. We’ll work together to understand and move through any past experiences that might still be affecting you today—because when we heal the past, we can change the present. I believe that trauma lives in both our minds and our bodies, and I’m here to help you rewrite your story in a way that empowers you. Let’s make your mental well-being a priority!
I have experience supporting people through more complex challenges, like psychosis, trauma, and personality disorders.
Hi, I’m Lauren! I’m all about helping people take charge of their mental health and live their best lives. I’m here to support you in a way that works for you, because everyone’s journey is unique. My goal is to help you heal, grow, and feel more at peace with yourself. We’ll work together to understand and move through any past experiences that might still be affecting you today—because when we heal the past, we can change the present. I believe that trauma lives in both our minds and our bodies, and I’m here to help you rewrite your story in a way that empowers you. Let’s make your mental well-being a priority!
(708) 773-8047 View (708) 773-8047
Photo of Melissa A. Novak, LCSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa A. Novak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
Waitlist for new clients
The therapeutic relationship is a safe place to explore, examine, and assess where you are today versus where you want to be in future. Together, we will identify the challenges that keep you from living a more satisfying life and develop concrete plans and skills to address these obstacles. My approach is always collaborative, in which you are the expert of your own experience and strengths. I work with couples and adults with a variety of issues such as sexual dysfunction, anxiety, phobias, obsessive-compulsive disorder, personality disorders, and PTSD.
The therapeutic relationship is a safe place to explore, examine, and assess where you are today versus where you want to be in future. Together, we will identify the challenges that keep you from living a more satisfying life and develop concrete plans and skills to address these obstacles. My approach is always collaborative, in which you are the expert of your own experience and strengths. I work with couples and adults with a variety of issues such as sexual dysfunction, anxiety, phobias, obsessive-compulsive disorder, personality disorders, and PTSD.
(773) 922-6527 View (773) 922-6527
Photo of Amanda Sharp-Potter, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Sharp-Potter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
A large portion of my focus has been personality disorders and professional burnout.
I spent 2 years working in crisis intervention. While meeting clients in the community I realized how important being part of a person’s follow up/ recovery was for me. This brought me to my 7 years as a therapist.
A large portion of my focus has been personality disorders and professional burnout.
I spent 2 years working in crisis intervention. While meeting clients in the community I realized how important being part of a person’s follow up/ recovery was for me. This brought me to my 7 years as a therapist.
(309) 703-3472 View (309) 703-3472
Photo of David E. Briggs, MA, LCPC, Counselor
David E. Briggs
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60630
I have comprehensive training and experience working with men and women struggling with complicated grief, depression, anxiety, anger, addiction, personality disorders and traumatic childhood experiences.
All of us experience the feeling of being stuck in some way, perhaps frustrated by challenging life circumstances, discouraged by unfulfilling relationships or just generally stirred up by the vague sense that something is just not working. Through the course of my experience, I have come to believe deeply in the power of the therapeutic relationship and the way in which a collaboration with a thoughtful, compassionate and dedicated therapist can be the catalyst for real change.
I have comprehensive training and experience working with men and women struggling with complicated grief, depression, anxiety, anger, addiction, personality disorders and traumatic childhood experiences.
All of us experience the feeling of being stuck in some way, perhaps frustrated by challenging life circumstances, discouraged by unfulfilling relationships or just generally stirred up by the vague sense that something is just not working. Through the course of my experience, I have come to believe deeply in the power of the therapeutic relationship and the way in which a collaboration with a thoughtful, compassionate and dedicated therapist can be the catalyst for real change.
(847) 379-5124 View (847) 379-5124
Photo of Susan Rohr, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Rohr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
This provided me with extensive experience in working with persons suffering from mood disorders, eating disorders, self- injuring behaviors, personality disorders, etc.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Illinois and have been practicing for over 30 years. I worked for 8 years on an inpatient psychiatric unit and for nearly 13 years at an outpatient behavioral health clinic.
This provided me with extensive experience in working with persons suffering from mood disorders, eating disorders, self- injuring behaviors, personality disorders, etc.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Illinois and have been practicing for over 30 years. I worked for 8 years on an inpatient psychiatric unit and for nearly 13 years at an outpatient behavioral health clinic.
(815) 446-3677 View (815) 446-3677
Photo of Pari R Shah - Pari Shah, LCSW, LCSW, C-PD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pari Shah, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, C-PD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60646
My primary experience has been with adolescents and adults suffering from domestic violence, sexual trauma, personality disorders, anxiety, depression, and sexual kinks in individual and group settings.
Change is inevitable and it can be difficult to embrace these persistent ups and downs while learning to thrive on this roller coaster of transition. Sometimes we need a little help navigating ways in managing these challenging emotions. Hence, I take a warm, empathetic, and “real” approach to therapy. I believe maintaining a personable, professional relationship helps build a strong therapeutic alliance with my clients. I've found that creating a safe non-judgemental space has empowered my clients to regain control of their lives. My clients come from all walks of life. Each with their own unique experiences.
My primary experience has been with adolescents and adults suffering from domestic violence, sexual trauma, personality disorders, anxiety, depression, and sexual kinks in individual and group settings.
Change is inevitable and it can be difficult to embrace these persistent ups and downs while learning to thrive on this roller coaster of transition. Sometimes we need a little help navigating ways in managing these challenging emotions. Hence, I take a warm, empathetic, and “real” approach to therapy. I believe maintaining a personable, professional relationship helps build a strong therapeutic alliance with my clients. I've found that creating a safe non-judgemental space has empowered my clients to regain control of their lives. My clients come from all walks of life. Each with their own unique experiences.
(224) 263-1873 View (224) 263-1873
Photo of Andrea D. Coulter, LCPC, CCTP
Andrea D. Coulter
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive training and experience helping individuals with symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD, complex (childhood) trauma, sexual assault survivors, relationship difficulties, as well as, those who struggle with personality disorders.
I commend you for contemplating this important step toward attending to your own wellbeing. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois with 10 years of experience. I would describe my approach as warm and compassionate, but I will also challenge you when needed. My ultimate goal is to help you gain the tools and insight to meet your goals. I meet my clients where they are and work collaboratively with them to develop a plan for getting them where they want to be. If you are suffering psychologically, emotionally, or relationally, therapy can be an excellent way to move toward greater wellness.
I have extensive training and experience helping individuals with symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD, complex (childhood) trauma, sexual assault survivors, relationship difficulties, as well as, those who struggle with personality disorders.
I commend you for contemplating this important step toward attending to your own wellbeing. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois with 10 years of experience. I would describe my approach as warm and compassionate, but I will also challenge you when needed. My ultimate goal is to help you gain the tools and insight to meet your goals. I meet my clients where they are and work collaboratively with them to develop a plan for getting them where they want to be. If you are suffering psychologically, emotionally, or relationally, therapy can be an excellent way to move toward greater wellness.
(618) 565-9118 View (618) 565-9118
Photo of Jodi Craft Bates, LPC, CSAT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jodi Craft Bates
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60622
I have experience in the treatment of addictions, anxiety, and depression. I am also experienced working with trauma, bipolar and borderline personality disorders. I graduated from Colorado Christian University in 2020 with my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I am currently working on my CSAT certification. Prior to gaining my Master's in Clinical Mental Health, I worked in non-profit outreach providing services such as psychoeducation in anger management to marginalized population groups and people operations providing recruiting, career development, and human resources support.
I have experience in the treatment of addictions, anxiety, and depression. I am also experienced working with trauma, bipolar and borderline personality disorders. I graduated from Colorado Christian University in 2020 with my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I am currently working on my CSAT certification. Prior to gaining my Master's in Clinical Mental Health, I worked in non-profit outreach providing services such as psychoeducation in anger management to marginalized population groups and people operations providing recruiting, career development, and human resources support.
(872) 219-1683 View (872) 219-1683
Photo of Jenna Cronin, LCSW, CDMDTP, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenna Cronin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CDMDTP, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
Jenna enjoys working with individuals who have SI, SH, trauma, anxiety, depression, or psychosis. She also likes to work with individuals with personality disorders and interpersonal struggles. Jenna is trained in DBT (dialectical behavior therapy), ACT (acceptance and commitment therapy), CBT (cognitive behavior therapy), RODBT (radically open dialectical behavior therapy), and certified in CPT (cognitive processing therapy), which is an evidenced based intervention used for individuals with PTSD.
Jenna enjoys working with individuals who have SI, SH, trauma, anxiety, depression, or psychosis. She also likes to work with individuals with personality disorders and interpersonal struggles. Jenna is trained in DBT (dialectical behavior therapy), ACT (acceptance and commitment therapy), CBT (cognitive behavior therapy), RODBT (radically open dialectical behavior therapy), and certified in CPT (cognitive processing therapy), which is an evidenced based intervention used for individuals with PTSD.
(872) 253-0954 View (872) 253-0954
Photo of Felicia Muhammad, MA, MEd, LCPC
Felicia Muhammad
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
My professional background includes working with a wide variety of clients ranging from children to older adults. I have provided mental health counseling including individual, group and family therapy. I have worked with a broad range of presenting issues including anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, adjustment difficulties, grief and loss, relationship problems, family conflict, mood disorders, personality disorders, psychosis, thinking disorders, codependency, domestic violence, self-esteem, women’s issues, spirituality, chronic illness, chronic pain, dual diagnosis, and addictions.
My professional background includes working with a wide variety of clients ranging from children to older adults. I have provided mental health counseling including individual, group and family therapy. I have worked with a broad range of presenting issues including anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, adjustment difficulties, grief and loss, relationship problems, family conflict, mood disorders, personality disorders, psychosis, thinking disorders, codependency, domestic violence, self-esteem, women’s issues, spirituality, chronic illness, chronic pain, dual diagnosis, and addictions.
(773) 825-3667 View (773) 825-3667
Photo of Dr. Adam Bodner, PsyD , Pre-Licensed Professional
Dr. Adam Bodner
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
I have experience working with clients from a wide range of backgrounds and presenting problems, including depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, trauma, as well as personality disorders.
Regardless of our problems, we all deserve the chance to feel supported and empowered. My approach to therapy starts by cultivating a safe environment and a positive relationship with my clients, and I like to approach treatment collaboratively. I have many ways to help you achieve your goals in therapy, but only you can be the expert on your own life. Together, we can find ways for you to live a happier, healthier life.
I have experience working with clients from a wide range of backgrounds and presenting problems, including depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, trauma, as well as personality disorders.
Regardless of our problems, we all deserve the chance to feel supported and empowered. My approach to therapy starts by cultivating a safe environment and a positive relationship with my clients, and I like to approach treatment collaboratively. I have many ways to help you achieve your goals in therapy, but only you can be the expert on your own life. Together, we can find ways for you to live a happier, healthier life.
(872) 224-4004 View (872) 224-4004
Photo of Hardik Kotak, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Hardik Kotak
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in helping people heal from trauma (PTSD, racial, identity based, complex, narcissistic abuse, childhood, sexual, etc). I am a good fit for people who struggle with identifying their internal feelings and needs, and are prone to feeling a sense of abandonment and chronic loneliness. I help folks, especially in the marginalized or minority communities, come to terms with the hurt that exists in the world, and help them build a sense of self that is independent of external circumstances. My work is present-focused, past-honoring, and future-oriented
I specialize in helping people heal from trauma (PTSD, racial, identity based, complex, narcissistic abuse, childhood, sexual, etc). I am a good fit for people who struggle with identifying their internal feelings and needs, and are prone to feeling a sense of abandonment and chronic loneliness. I help folks, especially in the marginalized or minority communities, come to terms with the hurt that exists in the world, and help them build a sense of self that is independent of external circumstances. My work is present-focused, past-honoring, and future-oriented
(872) 326-8312 View (872) 326-8312
Photo of Stephanie Gielniewski-Zawadzki, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Stephanie Gielniewski-Zawadzki
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60631
I work with individuals and families and specialize in treating depression, anxiety, personality disorders, and codependency as well as family problems.
I am a counselor with wide-ranging experience offering in-person and online counseling. My life’s passion is helping teens and young adults to reclaim their emotional wellbeing and strengthen their relationships. Working on feeling connected, at peace, safe, and supported have proven to be cornerstones to lasting change and healthier living.
I work with individuals and families and specialize in treating depression, anxiety, personality disorders, and codependency as well as family problems.
I am a counselor with wide-ranging experience offering in-person and online counseling. My life’s passion is helping teens and young adults to reclaim their emotional wellbeing and strengthen their relationships. Working on feeling connected, at peace, safe, and supported have proven to be cornerstones to lasting change and healthier living.
(773) 693-2549 View (773) 693-2549
Photo of Bryan Russo - Bryan Russo, LMFT, MS, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bryan Russo, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, PhD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have extensive professional experience working with anxiety, mood and personality disorders.
Too often psychotherapy focuses on causality, pathology and cures. However, rather than being "sick" or 'broken", often we are just lost inside ourselves or relationships. Everyone is a unique person with their own story, experience and perspective. The goal of therapy is to achieve a deeper awareness of where we are, to discover internal meaning for our many experiences, and to experience a life worth living. While working towards that awareness, I feel that it's also important to teach healthier coping skills to assist in dealing with the anxiety and day to day stressors that bring individuals to therapy.
I have extensive professional experience working with anxiety, mood and personality disorders.
Too often psychotherapy focuses on causality, pathology and cures. However, rather than being "sick" or 'broken", often we are just lost inside ourselves or relationships. Everyone is a unique person with their own story, experience and perspective. The goal of therapy is to achieve a deeper awareness of where we are, to discover internal meaning for our many experiences, and to experience a life worth living. While working towards that awareness, I feel that it's also important to teach healthier coping skills to assist in dealing with the anxiety and day to day stressors that bring individuals to therapy.
(872) 231-3669 View (872) 231-3669
Photo of Greg Rosen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Greg Rosen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60615
In addition to seeing a wide range of clients, I have two areas of specialization: 1) Intensive psychotherapy of 'severe mental illness' and personality disorders (with or without medications) including schizophrenia, bi-polar, or borderline personality disorder.
Do you know what you need to do or think, but still can't do it? Do you understand how to move forward but find yourself stuck nonetheless? Maybe you have medically unexplained health problems, or doctors telling you it's in your head? These are some of the reasons people seek psychoanalytic psychotherapy. I have been practicing psychotherapy for over 20 years in various settings including a university student counseling center and public mental health clinics for the seriously mentally ill and have effectively worked with clients struggling with conditions ranging from adjustment disorders (reactions to stress) to schizophrenia.
In addition to seeing a wide range of clients, I have two areas of specialization: 1) Intensive psychotherapy of 'severe mental illness' and personality disorders (with or without medications) including schizophrenia, bi-polar, or borderline personality disorder.
Do you know what you need to do or think, but still can't do it? Do you understand how to move forward but find yourself stuck nonetheless? Maybe you have medically unexplained health problems, or doctors telling you it's in your head? These are some of the reasons people seek psychoanalytic psychotherapy. I have been practicing psychotherapy for over 20 years in various settings including a university student counseling center and public mental health clinics for the seriously mentally ill and have effectively worked with clients struggling with conditions ranging from adjustment disorders (reactions to stress) to schizophrenia.
(773) 752-8808 View (773) 752-8808
Photo of Lola Wang, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lola Wang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661
My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, POC mental health, LGBTQ+, self-esteem, and personality disorders.
I appreciate your willingness to take the time to put yourself first and look for a new therapist. In working with me, you will find a safe space where differences are honored. Together, we will explore challenging topics while incorporating different skills and tools that you can utilize regularly. My approach to psychotherapy is trauma-informed, client-centered, with a social justice lens. The goal is to have a holistic approach to healing so that you can reduce symptoms, meet goals, strengthen supports and overcome everyday stress as well as past trauma.
My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, POC mental health, LGBTQ+, self-esteem, and personality disorders.
I appreciate your willingness to take the time to put yourself first and look for a new therapist. In working with me, you will find a safe space where differences are honored. Together, we will explore challenging topics while incorporating different skills and tools that you can utilize regularly. My approach to psychotherapy is trauma-informed, client-centered, with a social justice lens. The goal is to have a holistic approach to healing so that you can reduce symptoms, meet goals, strengthen supports and overcome everyday stress as well as past trauma.
(312) 262-2487 View (312) 262-2487
Photo of Lori A Rush, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lori A Rush
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have been a therapist for over 25 years working with adult clients around issues of mood disorders, trauma, personality disorders and relationship difficulties. I believe people have the power within themselves for change but sometimes need a facilitator and coach to help them find additional coping skills or to process something with an objective party. I offer empathy, experience and a non-judgmental stance in the therapeutic relationship. My style is eclectic depending on an individual’s needs, with foundations in DBT, CBT, motivational interviewing and best practice models for psychotherapy.
I have been a therapist for over 25 years working with adult clients around issues of mood disorders, trauma, personality disorders and relationship difficulties. I believe people have the power within themselves for change but sometimes need a facilitator and coach to help them find additional coping skills or to process something with an objective party. I offer empathy, experience and a non-judgmental stance in the therapeutic relationship. My style is eclectic depending on an individual’s needs, with foundations in DBT, CBT, motivational interviewing and best practice models for psychotherapy.
(872) 704-1720 View (872) 704-1720
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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.