Personality Disorders Therapists in Pittsburgh, PA

Photo of Christina Calkins, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christina Calkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
Are you feeling overwhelmed by emotional challenges, struggling with past trauma, or navigating complex relationships? I’m here to help. As an LPC specializing in Mood Disorders, Personality Disorders, and Trauma/PTSD, my passion lies in supporting individuals who have experienced traumatic events. I create a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore your feelings, identify triggers, and develop positive coping skills. Together, we'll address your unique needs and work towards a more balanced, fulfilling life.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by emotional challenges, struggling with past trauma, or navigating complex relationships? I’m here to help. As an LPC specializing in Mood Disorders, Personality Disorders, and Trauma/PTSD, my passion lies in supporting individuals who have experienced traumatic events. I create a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore your feelings, identify triggers, and develop positive coping skills. Together, we'll address your unique needs and work towards a more balanced, fulfilling life.
(856) 437-5737 View (856) 437-5737
Photo of Elizabeth Simmons, LCSW , DBT-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Simmons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW , DBT-C
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
I specialize in trauma, personality disorders, addiction disorders, LGBTQIA+ issues, body positivity, HIV/AIDS, forensic issues, immigrant/refugee issues, women's issues, and civil rights/social justice.
I will teach you how to live fully in each moment, be unapologetically and authentically you, cope with stress more effectively, regulate your emotions, and improve your relationships with others. My ideal client is ready to work with me, as i support and guide them. I will work with you if you feel like you're doing mostly ok, and I will work with you if you feel like you are a mess and don't even know where to start. Healing is hard work, but it's so worthwhile and I'd love to help you get to the other side and be able to live your best life as your best, most authentic self.
I specialize in trauma, personality disorders, addiction disorders, LGBTQIA+ issues, body positivity, HIV/AIDS, forensic issues, immigrant/refugee issues, women's issues, and civil rights/social justice.
I will teach you how to live fully in each moment, be unapologetically and authentically you, cope with stress more effectively, regulate your emotions, and improve your relationships with others. My ideal client is ready to work with me, as i support and guide them. I will work with you if you feel like you're doing mostly ok, and I will work with you if you feel like you are a mess and don't even know where to start. Healing is hard work, but it's so worthwhile and I'd love to help you get to the other side and be able to live your best life as your best, most authentic self.
(412) 293-0459 View (412) 293-0459
Photo of Maria Ximena Cortada, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maria Ximena Cortada
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I specialize in anxiety and depressive disorders, codependency and relationship issues, self-esteem, phase of life transitions, personality disorders, and forensics among others.
Hi, my name is Maria Ximena, a licensed psychotherapist, that's passionate about improving the lives of others by fostering mental health well-being. If you're seeking a therapist that works with you side by side, focusing on your strengths while intervening in areas that need attention, then you are in the right place.
I specialize in anxiety and depressive disorders, codependency and relationship issues, self-esteem, phase of life transitions, personality disorders, and forensics among others.
Hi, my name is Maria Ximena, a licensed psychotherapist, that's passionate about improving the lives of others by fostering mental health well-being. If you're seeking a therapist that works with you side by side, focusing on your strengths while intervening in areas that need attention, then you are in the right place.
(484) 739-8277 View (484) 739-8277
Photo of Tracey Lynn Boyle - Tracey Lynn Boyle, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tracey Lynn Boyle
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15201
Areas of specialty include personality disorders, abuse, and behavioral disruptions.
I offer a judgement free ear for listening to all of life's hardships. I promote responsibility taking and accountability, while encouraging self-development and expression. I work to connect with individuals and create an open forum to explore topics and situations that may have long been misinterpreted as shameful or embarrassing.
Areas of specialty include personality disorders, abuse, and behavioral disruptions.
I offer a judgement free ear for listening to all of life's hardships. I promote responsibility taking and accountability, while encouraging self-development and expression. I work to connect with individuals and create an open forum to explore topics and situations that may have long been misinterpreted as shameful or embarrassing.
(724) 973-2790 View (724) 973-2790
Photo of Dr. Cydney V. Quinn, PhD, NCSP
Dr. Cydney V. Quinn
PhD, NCSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Waitlist for new clients
Dr. Cydney V. Quinn, PhD, NCSP who conducts neuropsychological, psychological, academic, and independent educational evaluations. Dr. Quinn has over 10 years of experience in the field supporting clients with concerns related to ADHD, learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), mood disorders (e.g., bipolar, depression, anxiety), behavioral disorders (e.g., conduct, ODD, DMDD), personality disorders (e.g., BPD), trauma, and other diagnoses such as memory concerns, eating disorders, and OCD. She works with the individuals who are between 2 years and 65 years old
Dr. Cydney V. Quinn, PhD, NCSP who conducts neuropsychological, psychological, academic, and independent educational evaluations. Dr. Quinn has over 10 years of experience in the field supporting clients with concerns related to ADHD, learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), mood disorders (e.g., bipolar, depression, anxiety), behavioral disorders (e.g., conduct, ODD, DMDD), personality disorders (e.g., BPD), trauma, and other diagnoses such as memory concerns, eating disorders, and OCD. She works with the individuals who are between 2 years and 65 years old
(412) 447-5306 View (412) 447-5306
Photo of Sarah Marie Miller, MSW, MA, LPC, CFRC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Marie Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSW, MA, LPC, CFRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I work from a humanistic approach, but believe in being holistic and pulling from a variety of counseling theories and techniques to meet clients where they are at. I work with children and adults from diverse backgrounds and with a ranges of concerns. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, personality disorders, dual diagnosis clients, etc. I have a special interest in military, first responders, and children from the child welfare system. I believe that counseling is a partnership of sorts and try to help individual meet their full potential by understanding their life experiences from their perspective.
I work from a humanistic approach, but believe in being holistic and pulling from a variety of counseling theories and techniques to meet clients where they are at. I work with children and adults from diverse backgrounds and with a ranges of concerns. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, personality disorders, dual diagnosis clients, etc. I have a special interest in military, first responders, and children from the child welfare system. I believe that counseling is a partnership of sorts and try to help individual meet their full potential by understanding their life experiences from their perspective.
(878) 213-4746 View (878) 213-4746
Photo of Anita Cilia, LCSW , BA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anita Cilia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW , BA
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15236
I work with many different issues, including, but not limited to: autism, mood disorders, personality disorders, intellectual disabilities and dual diagnosis with significant behaviors, PTSD, grief and loss, trauma/abuse victims, and codependency.
Have you been feeling overwhelmed, like you are drowning and not able to catch your breath? Are you having trouble managing your thoughts and feelings? Are you having difficulty dealing with the loss of a loved one? Are you sad and unsure why or what to do about it? Do you ever find yourself talking and no matter how loudly you talk it seems like nobody is listening? Do you feel irritated and angry or are having trouble controlling your temper and it’s causing you difficulties at home or work?
I work with many different issues, including, but not limited to: autism, mood disorders, personality disorders, intellectual disabilities and dual diagnosis with significant behaviors, PTSD, grief and loss, trauma/abuse victims, and codependency.
Have you been feeling overwhelmed, like you are drowning and not able to catch your breath? Are you having trouble managing your thoughts and feelings? Are you having difficulty dealing with the loss of a loved one? Are you sad and unsure why or what to do about it? Do you ever find yourself talking and no matter how loudly you talk it seems like nobody is listening? Do you feel irritated and angry or are having trouble controlling your temper and it’s causing you difficulties at home or work?
(878) 213-4840 View (878) 213-4840
Photo of Ryan J. King, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ryan J. King
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15238
Ryan King is a state licensed Social Worker with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Indiana University of Pennsylvania, and a Master's degree in Social Work from University of Pittsburgh, with a focus on Mental Health. Ryan works with individuals with severe and persistent mental illness including Schizophrenia, Mood Disorders (Depression, Bi-Polar), Anxiety, Personality Disorders, Substance Abuse and Crisis Intervention. In addition, Ryan works with anger, social skills, and stress management as well as crisis management. Ryan is trained in EMDR therapy used for addressing past trauma
Ryan King is a state licensed Social Worker with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Indiana University of Pennsylvania, and a Master's degree in Social Work from University of Pittsburgh, with a focus on Mental Health. Ryan works with individuals with severe and persistent mental illness including Schizophrenia, Mood Disorders (Depression, Bi-Polar), Anxiety, Personality Disorders, Substance Abuse and Crisis Intervention. In addition, Ryan works with anger, social skills, and stress management as well as crisis management. Ryan is trained in EMDR therapy used for addressing past trauma
(878) 645-3546 View (878) 645-3546
Photo of Anita Barnhart, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anita Barnhart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
My professional experience includes work with addiction, anxiety, depression, difficult life/work transitions, grief/loss, personality disorders, relationship issues, and trauma.
Life can present us with challenging and stressful situations. And yet, "We are made to persist. That is how we find out who we are"-Tobias Wolff. This philosophy provides the reassurance that each person has the power and potential to surpass many difficult situations. In therapeutic practice, I work with clients to identify and cultivate their innate strengths and resources, inspiring positive change and a more meaningful, rewarding life.
My professional experience includes work with addiction, anxiety, depression, difficult life/work transitions, grief/loss, personality disorders, relationship issues, and trauma.
Life can present us with challenging and stressful situations. And yet, "We are made to persist. That is how we find out who we are"-Tobias Wolff. This philosophy provides the reassurance that each person has the power and potential to surpass many difficult situations. In therapeutic practice, I work with clients to identify and cultivate their innate strengths and resources, inspiring positive change and a more meaningful, rewarding life.
(878) 205-8297 View (878) 205-8297
Photo of Brian Joseph Nuckols, LPC Intern
Brian Joseph Nuckols
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15221
I specialize in treating issues stemming from narcissistic abuse, complex trauma, childhood PTSD.
I specialize in working with people suffering from Childhood PTSD & narcissistic abuse. If you're seeking a fresh approach to healing from narcissistic abuse, complex trauma, or childhood PTSD, you're in the right place. I focus on addressing the root causes of these experiences, not just the symptoms. I enjoy working with clients to uncover deeper issues and use body-based and relational methods for profound healing. Together, we'll develop vibrant, healthy coping mechanisms for sustainable recovery and a fulfilling life. I will never ask you to abandon a coping mechanism without first he
I specialize in treating issues stemming from narcissistic abuse, complex trauma, childhood PTSD.
I specialize in working with people suffering from Childhood PTSD & narcissistic abuse. If you're seeking a fresh approach to healing from narcissistic abuse, complex trauma, or childhood PTSD, you're in the right place. I focus on addressing the root causes of these experiences, not just the symptoms. I enjoy working with clients to uncover deeper issues and use body-based and relational methods for profound healing. Together, we'll develop vibrant, healthy coping mechanisms for sustainable recovery and a fulfilling life. I will never ask you to abandon a coping mechanism without first he
(412) 903-3606 View (412) 903-3606
Photo of Savanna Stanton-Ameisen, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Savanna Stanton-Ameisen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, adults, and families who struggle with eating disorders, substance use disorders, trauma, depression, anxiety, and personality disorders.
My ideal client would be someone motivated to engage in motivational interviewing and change work.
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, adults, and families who struggle with eating disorders, substance use disorders, trauma, depression, anxiety, and personality disorders.
My ideal client would be someone motivated to engage in motivational interviewing and change work.
(412) 538-6393 View (412) 538-6393
Photo of Tess Kenney - HandinHand Counseling Services, LLC, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
HandinHand Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15235
Specialties include: We have helped clients successfully address issues related to Anxiety, Depression, Trauma/PTSD, Attachment Issues, Grief and Loss/Bereavement, Mood Disorders, Family Conflict, Personality Disorders, Self-Esteem issues and Stress Management.
At HandinHand Counseling, LLC our GOAL is to promote HOPE, HEALTH and HEALING to individuals and families dealing with generational and situational obstacles. We are a practice with a 21st century approach to counseling devoted to removing the stigma attached to mental health counseling. We see peace in the place of chaos. We see function where there appears to be dysfunction. Our goal is to tap into the strengths you possess, that are often times masked by life's complexities through therapeutic intervention and resource building. Let us assist you in bridging the gap between the problem and the solution.
Specialties include: We have helped clients successfully address issues related to Anxiety, Depression, Trauma/PTSD, Attachment Issues, Grief and Loss/Bereavement, Mood Disorders, Family Conflict, Personality Disorders, Self-Esteem issues and Stress Management.
At HandinHand Counseling, LLC our GOAL is to promote HOPE, HEALTH and HEALING to individuals and families dealing with generational and situational obstacles. We are a practice with a 21st century approach to counseling devoted to removing the stigma attached to mental health counseling. We see peace in the place of chaos. We see function where there appears to be dysfunction. Our goal is to tap into the strengths you possess, that are often times masked by life's complexities through therapeutic intervention and resource building. Let us assist you in bridging the gap between the problem and the solution.
(412) 444-7250 View (412) 444-7250
Photo of E River Goodman, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
E River Goodman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15218
I specialize in working with folks who are: adhd, autistic, queer/LGBTQIA2, poly, kink, struggling with chronic depression, chronic suicidality or self-harm, personality disorders, trauma & childhood abuse, chronic pain, illness, or disability, in academia, gifted or formerly gifted, grief & loss, relationships, life transitions, & explorations of identity.
Our lives are a narrative woven by our experiences, identity, and beliefs. Exploring who we are and who we want to be is one of the central works of life, and of therapy in particular. Through speaking and reflecting on your unique story - past, present, and expectations of the future - you gain the insight, healing, and power to live your life with newfound fulfillment and peace. As a Queer, Trans, AuDHD, liberation & abolitionist focused therapist, I welcome you to a space where your pain and joys can be heard and validated, where you can be yourself without fear of judgment - where you can grow and heal.
I specialize in working with folks who are: adhd, autistic, queer/LGBTQIA2, poly, kink, struggling with chronic depression, chronic suicidality or self-harm, personality disorders, trauma & childhood abuse, chronic pain, illness, or disability, in academia, gifted or formerly gifted, grief & loss, relationships, life transitions, & explorations of identity.
Our lives are a narrative woven by our experiences, identity, and beliefs. Exploring who we are and who we want to be is one of the central works of life, and of therapy in particular. Through speaking and reflecting on your unique story - past, present, and expectations of the future - you gain the insight, healing, and power to live your life with newfound fulfillment and peace. As a Queer, Trans, AuDHD, liberation & abolitionist focused therapist, I welcome you to a space where your pain and joys can be heard and validated, where you can be yourself without fear of judgment - where you can grow and heal.
(412) 534-5181 View (412) 534-5181
Photo of Tristyn Tabb, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tristyn Tabb
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15241
I have experience working with adult populations with a variety of presenting illnesses, including depression, anxiety, substance use, trauma, mania, and personality disorders.
Hello! You have taken the first step in moving towards a life you can be proud of; congratulations. Life has a way of placing obstacles in our path and sometimes these challenges can seem insurmountable. Know that you don’t have to face these challenges alone and that with some help the things that seem impossible can become possible. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Nationally Certified Counselor. I earned my master’s in professional counseling from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania. My professional career consists of working in community mental health and outpatient treatment settings.
I have experience working with adult populations with a variety of presenting illnesses, including depression, anxiety, substance use, trauma, mania, and personality disorders.
Hello! You have taken the first step in moving towards a life you can be proud of; congratulations. Life has a way of placing obstacles in our path and sometimes these challenges can seem insurmountable. Know that you don’t have to face these challenges alone and that with some help the things that seem impossible can become possible. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Nationally Certified Counselor. I earned my master’s in professional counseling from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania. My professional career consists of working in community mental health and outpatient treatment settings.
(412) 547-5448 View (412) 547-5448
Photo of Erin Swab - Touchstone Clinical Associates, LCSW, LSW, LPC, NCC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Touchstone Clinical Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSW, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
Our team has extensive training in treating eating disorders, mood disorders, co-occurring disorders, and personality disorders.
"The journey of a thousand miles begins with the first step." -Lao Tzu. If your journey could benefit from the most progressive, evidenced-based treatments currently available, Touchstone Clinical Associates can help. Our team has a rare depth of experience treating eating disorders, mood disorders, and trauma that cannot be found anywhere else in the area. With a wealth of empathy, Touchstone Clinical Associates has the knowledge and technical expertise to get your journey started on the right path.
Our team has extensive training in treating eating disorders, mood disorders, co-occurring disorders, and personality disorders.
"The journey of a thousand miles begins with the first step." -Lao Tzu. If your journey could benefit from the most progressive, evidenced-based treatments currently available, Touchstone Clinical Associates can help. Our team has a rare depth of experience treating eating disorders, mood disorders, and trauma that cannot be found anywhere else in the area. With a wealth of empathy, Touchstone Clinical Associates has the knowledge and technical expertise to get your journey started on the right path.
(412) 214-7037 View (412) 214-7037
Photo of Carlos Eduardo Golfetto, PhD, LPC, CST, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carlos Eduardo Golfetto
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CST
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
My focus is trauma, sexual trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, mood and personality disorders.
I am pleased that you are here. I know it is not easy to take this first step, but I want you to know first and foremost, that I take great care and pride in creating a safe place for my clients to talk about their internal conflicts, interpersonal problems, traumas, and whatever is interfering with living a fuller, richer life. I bring to my clinical practice a great deal of skills coupled with passion to engage in a meaningful therapeutic relationship. I invite clients to increase their self-awareness while aspiring to high levels of wellness: biologically, psychologically, relationally, sexually and spiritually.
My focus is trauma, sexual trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, mood and personality disorders.
I am pleased that you are here. I know it is not easy to take this first step, but I want you to know first and foremost, that I take great care and pride in creating a safe place for my clients to talk about their internal conflicts, interpersonal problems, traumas, and whatever is interfering with living a fuller, richer life. I bring to my clinical practice a great deal of skills coupled with passion to engage in a meaningful therapeutic relationship. I invite clients to increase their self-awareness while aspiring to high levels of wellness: biologically, psychologically, relationally, sexually and spiritually.
(412) 212-0918 View (412) 212-0918
Photo of Andrea Schachner, PsyD, NCSP, Psychologist
Andrea Schachner
Psychologist, PsyD, NCSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I works with clients who have a range of backgrounds and disorders, including anxiety, depression, personality disorders, and other adjustment concerns.
My focus is to work with children and families to form caring and supportive relationships that are solution focused and trauma informed. I work with children and adolescents providing individual therapy, family therapy, psychological and psycho-educational assessments, and consultation. I utilize cognitive-behavior therapy and play interventions in the service of providing a safe environment in which clients can better understand themselves and their relationships in order to foster growth and success.
I works with clients who have a range of backgrounds and disorders, including anxiety, depression, personality disorders, and other adjustment concerns.
My focus is to work with children and families to form caring and supportive relationships that are solution focused and trauma informed. I work with children and adolescents providing individual therapy, family therapy, psychological and psycho-educational assessments, and consultation. I utilize cognitive-behavior therapy and play interventions in the service of providing a safe environment in which clients can better understand themselves and their relationships in order to foster growth and success.
(412) 214-8913 View (412) 214-8913
Photo of Kathryn Nevin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathryn Nevin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, I'm Kathryn Nevin, LCSW, CCTP. It's wonderful to see you seeking support and making strides to connect here! I'm here to assist with various challenges like anxiety, depression, anger, grief and loss, self-harm, and personality disorders. My focus lies particularly in trauma therapy. In our first session, I'll tailor our approach to suit your needs and optimize outcomes.
Hello, I'm Kathryn Nevin, LCSW, CCTP. It's wonderful to see you seeking support and making strides to connect here! I'm here to assist with various challenges like anxiety, depression, anger, grief and loss, self-harm, and personality disorders. My focus lies particularly in trauma therapy. In our first session, I'll tailor our approach to suit your needs and optimize outcomes.
(215) 608-5627 View (215) 608-5627
Photo of Irina Sundukova, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Irina Sundukova
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I work with past traumas, eating disorders, relationship conflicts, personality disorders, anxiety, and depression.
Let’s explore some endless possibilities to empower your search for inner balance and peace, looking at your thoughts, core beliefs, how you view the world, and what’s holding you back. Let’s break free from past fears and outdated perceptions. I would like to help you work through challenging times and feelings, as well as celebrating your self-discoveries.
I work with past traumas, eating disorders, relationship conflicts, personality disorders, anxiety, and depression.
Let’s explore some endless possibilities to empower your search for inner balance and peace, looking at your thoughts, core beliefs, how you view the world, and what’s holding you back. Let’s break free from past fears and outdated perceptions. I would like to help you work through challenging times and feelings, as well as celebrating your self-discoveries.
(484) 969-9717 View (484) 969-9717
Photo of Kathleen Hoffmann, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathleen Hoffmann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15229
Now accepting new clients. Life hands each of us all types of challenges. Therapy can help when we feel the need to 'update' our skills in our own 'toolbox' for coping or to make a changes in our behaviors to reduce any negative impact certain situations can have on our mood and on our lives! I have over 25 years experience working as a therapist with mental health and substance issues, coping with trauma, relationship issues, chronic illness, stress reactions, diabetes, breast cancer, codependency, personality disorders, grief and loss, thought disorders and mood disorders.
Now accepting new clients. Life hands each of us all types of challenges. Therapy can help when we feel the need to 'update' our skills in our own 'toolbox' for coping or to make a changes in our behaviors to reduce any negative impact certain situations can have on our mood and on our lives! I have over 25 years experience working as a therapist with mental health and substance issues, coping with trauma, relationship issues, chronic illness, stress reactions, diabetes, breast cancer, codependency, personality disorders, grief and loss, thought disorders and mood disorders.
(412) 913-8322 View (412) 913-8322
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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.