Personality Disorders Therapists in 10003

Mary F Ekwall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10003
I am NYS Board Qualified Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Family Therapist and NYS Certified Gestalt Psychotherapist specializing in bilingual (Spanish/English) adolescents and their families, couples and individuals suffering from relationship dysfunction, attachment trauma, self dys-regulation, intergenerational issues, mood disorders, trauma related disorders, addiction, personality disorders and problems with acculturation. As a professional I bring perseverance and dedication to my chosen field, as well as a deep regard for personal improvement and the hope that my dedication and sense of justice make even a small but meaningful difference in the lives of the families I treat. .
I am NYS Board Qualified Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Family Therapist and NYS Certified Gestalt Psychotherapist specializing in bilingual (Spanish/English) adolescents and their families, couples and individuals suffering from relationship dysfunction, attachment trauma, self dys-regulation, intergenerational issues, mood disorders, trauma related disorders, addiction, personality disorders and problems with acculturation. As a professional I bring perseverance and dedication to my chosen field, as well as a deep regard for personal improvement and the hope that my dedication and sense of justice make even a small but meaningful difference in the lives of the families I treat. .
(646) 681-2983 View (646) 681-2983
Photo of Rachel Guerrero, Psychologist in 10003, NY
Rachel Guerrero
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10003
Sinai-Beth Israel's Addiction Inpatient unit and at Roosevelt's Center for Intensive Treatment of Personality Disorders.
Are depression and anxiety interfering in your life? Do you find yourself hitting roadblocks and wondering why? I can help you understand how your mood, behavior, thoughts, and relational patterns influence your choices. Through increased awareness, support, and gentle pushing, I help my clients move towards their goals. I help individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, addiction, self-harming behavior, impulsivity, relationship difficulties, work problems, issues with eating, as well as those struggling with creative blocks.
Sinai-Beth Israel's Addiction Inpatient unit and at Roosevelt's Center for Intensive Treatment of Personality Disorders.
Are depression and anxiety interfering in your life? Do you find yourself hitting roadblocks and wondering why? I can help you understand how your mood, behavior, thoughts, and relational patterns influence your choices. Through increased awareness, support, and gentle pushing, I help my clients move towards their goals. I help individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, addiction, self-harming behavior, impulsivity, relationship difficulties, work problems, issues with eating, as well as those struggling with creative blocks.
(646) 762-0613 View (646) 762-0613
Photo of Kerin Nadler Therapy, Art Therapist in 10003, NY
Kerin Nadler Therapy
Art Therapist, MS, LCAT, BC-DMT, CGP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10003
Kerin Nadler is a Psychoanalyst, Group Psychotherapist and Creative Arts Therapist. Kerin provides individual and group psychotherapy for people struggling with depression, psychosis, mood disorders, PTSD, personality disorders, anxiety and relationship issues. She received an MS from Pratt Institute. In addition to her private practice, Kerin is an individual and group therapist at Mt. Sinai Hospital and the Institute for Contemporary Psychotherapy. Kerin has been a guest lecturer at Mt. Sinai School of Medicine and Albert Einstein College of Medicine. She has also presented at local and national group psychotherapy conferences.
Kerin Nadler is a Psychoanalyst, Group Psychotherapist and Creative Arts Therapist. Kerin provides individual and group psychotherapy for people struggling with depression, psychosis, mood disorders, PTSD, personality disorders, anxiety and relationship issues. She received an MS from Pratt Institute. In addition to her private practice, Kerin is an individual and group therapist at Mt. Sinai Hospital and the Institute for Contemporary Psychotherapy. Kerin has been a guest lecturer at Mt. Sinai School of Medicine and Albert Einstein College of Medicine. She has also presented at local and national group psychotherapy conferences.
(917) 563-4932 View (917) 563-4932
Photo of Sharlene Denise Jackson, Psychologist in 10003, NY
Sharlene Denise Jackson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10003
I am a psychodynamically oriented, licensed clinical psychologist that specializes in treating depression, anxiety and personality disorders.
Whether you are looking for support to resolve a challenging problem that you have identified but just can't seem to resolve, experiencing interpersonal or family conflict or feel a lack of fulfillment in your life, I can help you to move forward. My academic and clinical training, maturity, more than two decades of experience and rich, as well as varied interpersonal experiences, allow me to provide a comfortable environment where you can achieve the insight and knowledge of self and others that will allow you to make the choices that will lead to greater self control, well being and life satisfaction.
I am a psychodynamically oriented, licensed clinical psychologist that specializes in treating depression, anxiety and personality disorders.
Whether you are looking for support to resolve a challenging problem that you have identified but just can't seem to resolve, experiencing interpersonal or family conflict or feel a lack of fulfillment in your life, I can help you to move forward. My academic and clinical training, maturity, more than two decades of experience and rich, as well as varied interpersonal experiences, allow me to provide a comfortable environment where you can achieve the insight and knowledge of self and others that will allow you to make the choices that will lead to greater self control, well being and life satisfaction.
(917) 633-7107 View (917) 633-7107
Photo of Lawrence Ian Reed, Psychologist in 10003, NY
Lawrence Ian Reed
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10003
I take a client-centered and cognitive behavioral approach to working with clients. I specialize in the treatment of mood disorders (particularly depression and anxiety) and personality disorders (specifically borderline personality disorder).
I take a client-centered and cognitive behavioral approach to working with clients. I specialize in the treatment of mood disorders (particularly depression and anxiety) and personality disorders (specifically borderline personality disorder).
(646) 681-7207 View (646) 681-7207
Photo of Lauren Laguna, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10003, NY
Lauren Laguna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BFA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10003  (Online Only)
Authentic and empathetic therapist, here to help you feel empowered, safe, worthy, and free to live your life. I'm passionate about empowering my clients in achieving their goals, whatever that may look like. I have worked with a wide range of clients. Some looking to process and heal trauma; learn how to manage anxiety, stress, and overwhelming emotions; improve relationships; improve self-esteem, build self-confidence, learn self-compassion; build insight into unhelpful behaviors. I work with adults, teens, and children, struggling with trauma, anxiety, panic attacks, personality disorders, depression, and body image issues.
Authentic and empathetic therapist, here to help you feel empowered, safe, worthy, and free to live your life. I'm passionate about empowering my clients in achieving their goals, whatever that may look like. I have worked with a wide range of clients. Some looking to process and heal trauma; learn how to manage anxiety, stress, and overwhelming emotions; improve relationships; improve self-esteem, build self-confidence, learn self-compassion; build insight into unhelpful behaviors. I work with adults, teens, and children, struggling with trauma, anxiety, panic attacks, personality disorders, depression, and body image issues.
(347) 754-3702 View (347) 754-3702
Photo of Sally Roesch, Licensed Professional Counselor in 10003, NY
Sally Roesch
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10003  (Online Only)
I have experience helping people with a variety of issues including (but not limited to): relationship distress, mood disorders, anxiety, impulsive behavior, Narcissistic Personality Disorder, and teens at risk for personality disorders.
I love working with people who are having relationship issues— romantic or otherwise. I can help you figure out the things you truly want, where you get stuck, or where you get in your own way. We will work together to make change happen fast so that what you want is more likely to become reality. I won’t just nod and smile, so if you're looking for someone who doesn't tiptoe around things, you're on the right profile.
I have experience helping people with a variety of issues including (but not limited to): relationship distress, mood disorders, anxiety, impulsive behavior, Narcissistic Personality Disorder, and teens at risk for personality disorders.
I love working with people who are having relationship issues— romantic or otherwise. I can help you figure out the things you truly want, where you get stuck, or where you get in your own way. We will work together to make change happen fast so that what you want is more likely to become reality. I won’t just nod and smile, so if you're looking for someone who doesn't tiptoe around things, you're on the right profile.
(615) 240-2841 View (615) 240-2841
Photo of Maria Rocio Hernandez, Psychologist in 10003, NY
Maria Rocio Hernandez
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10003
I work with adolescents, young adults, and adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, personality disorders, trauma, self-harm, and suicidality.
Hello there, I'm Maria, a compassionate ally committed to guiding you on your path to emotional well-being. Life can be overwhelming, and seeking support is a courageous step. In our shared space, free from judgment, we'll explore your unique narrative. As a behavioral psychologist, I blend evidence-based practices with empathy to help you navigate challenges, fostering growth and resilience. Whatever your challenges are, I'm here to accompany you towards a more fulfilling and authentic life.
I work with adolescents, young adults, and adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, personality disorders, trauma, self-harm, and suicidality.
Hello there, I'm Maria, a compassionate ally committed to guiding you on your path to emotional well-being. Life can be overwhelming, and seeking support is a courageous step. In our shared space, free from judgment, we'll explore your unique narrative. As a behavioral psychologist, I blend evidence-based practices with empathy to help you navigate challenges, fostering growth and resilience. Whatever your challenges are, I'm here to accompany you towards a more fulfilling and authentic life.
(646) 722-6832 View (646) 722-6832
Photo of Constance Drogoul Bickson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10003, NY
Constance Drogoul Bickson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10003
I believe that people come to therapy because they want to change their life for the better. I work with individuals to lighten sadness, grief or anxiety, or to gain a greater understanding of one's self. I believe that the root causes of difficulty are developmental or situational, circumstantial, or a trauma. I strive to provide a non-judgmental, nurturing, safe space to explore insights, strengths and challenges. I specialize with multi-cultural and multi-racial adults, expatriates, those in multi-racial relationships, and those struggling with anxiety, depression, personality disorders and addiction.
I believe that people come to therapy because they want to change their life for the better. I work with individuals to lighten sadness, grief or anxiety, or to gain a greater understanding of one's self. I believe that the root causes of difficulty are developmental or situational, circumstantial, or a trauma. I strive to provide a non-judgmental, nurturing, safe space to explore insights, strengths and challenges. I specialize with multi-cultural and multi-racial adults, expatriates, those in multi-racial relationships, and those struggling with anxiety, depression, personality disorders and addiction.
(646) 766-8342 View (646) 766-8342
Photo of Elisabeth C White, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10003, NY
Elisabeth C White
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10003
In her private practice, Elisabeth works with mood disorders, personality disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, substance issues, relationship/marital conflict, divorce, parenting issues, grief and loss, school/career stagnation/inhibition, and maladaptive patterns of behavior.
Elisabeth is a New York State Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She holds a BA with a major in Psychology from Emory University, and an MA from New York University's School of Social Work, a post-graduate certificate in Psychodynamic Psychotherapy from the New York Freudian Society, and a post-graduate certificate in Psychoanalysis from the Contemporary Freudian Society. She is a member of NASW, WMHC and is a fellow of the IPA. Elisabeth has over 15 years experience treating children, adults and families in settings such as inpatient psychiatric units, outpatient hospital clinics, schools and in her private practice.
In her private practice, Elisabeth works with mood disorders, personality disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, substance issues, relationship/marital conflict, divorce, parenting issues, grief and loss, school/career stagnation/inhibition, and maladaptive patterns of behavior.
Elisabeth is a New York State Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She holds a BA with a major in Psychology from Emory University, and an MA from New York University's School of Social Work, a post-graduate certificate in Psychodynamic Psychotherapy from the New York Freudian Society, and a post-graduate certificate in Psychoanalysis from the Contemporary Freudian Society. She is a member of NASW, WMHC and is a fellow of the IPA. Elisabeth has over 15 years experience treating children, adults and families in settings such as inpatient psychiatric units, outpatient hospital clinics, schools and in her private practice.
(646) 571-0962 View (646) 571-0962
Photo of John Marchini, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10003, NY
John Marchini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWR, CSAT
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10003
My clients are adults of all genders and sexual orientation.Sex positive, I am knowledgeable and familiar with LGBTQAI issues as well as non-heteronormative sexuality, including kink, BDSM, polyamory, and fetishes. I have expertise and specialized training in treating alcohol and substance use disorders, sexual compulsivity, PTSD, depression, anxiety, and personality disorders. I utilize a varied range of treatment modalities, including EMDR. I have worked in the field for 15 years and I'm a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist. I worked with the Fire Department of New York Counseling Service Unit, where I started the day before 9/11.
My clients are adults of all genders and sexual orientation.Sex positive, I am knowledgeable and familiar with LGBTQAI issues as well as non-heteronormative sexuality, including kink, BDSM, polyamory, and fetishes. I have expertise and specialized training in treating alcohol and substance use disorders, sexual compulsivity, PTSD, depression, anxiety, and personality disorders. I utilize a varied range of treatment modalities, including EMDR. I have worked in the field for 15 years and I'm a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist. I worked with the Fire Department of New York Counseling Service Unit, where I started the day before 9/11.
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Photo of Mia A. Lee, Psychologist in 10003, NY
Mia A. Lee
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10003
I aim to help people reduce suffering while nurturing strengths and potential in a collaborative pursuit of their life goals. Together we'll create a comfortable, culturally sensitive environment where you can work on increasing self-compassion through understanding your thoughts and behaviors. Using validation and change strategies, I can help you achieve your goals and build meaning in your life. I help clients work through emotion dysregulation that occurs from personality disorders, PTSD, mood and anxiety disorders, as well as the demands of our face-paced, sometimes stressful, world.
I aim to help people reduce suffering while nurturing strengths and potential in a collaborative pursuit of their life goals. Together we'll create a comfortable, culturally sensitive environment where you can work on increasing self-compassion through understanding your thoughts and behaviors. Using validation and change strategies, I can help you achieve your goals and build meaning in your life. I help clients work through emotion dysregulation that occurs from personality disorders, PTSD, mood and anxiety disorders, as well as the demands of our face-paced, sometimes stressful, world.
(646) 798-4818 View (646) 798-4818
Photo of Ellie Lord in 10003, NY
Ellie Lord
PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10003
I use evidence-based treatments to work with individuals facing a range of problems, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, personality disorders, body image dissatisfaction, and mood disorders.
I am a psychologist at NYCBT, a private group psychology practice in downtown Manhattan. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), working primarily with adults. I work in partnership with my clients to help them identify and achieve their goals by drawing on their unique individual strengths, while addressing their challenges with compassion. These changes usually involve addressing unhelpful thoughts and behaviors by learning to manage difficult emotions.
I use evidence-based treatments to work with individuals facing a range of problems, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, personality disorders, body image dissatisfaction, and mood disorders.
I am a psychologist at NYCBT, a private group psychology practice in downtown Manhattan. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), working primarily with adults. I work in partnership with my clients to help them identify and achieve their goals by drawing on their unique individual strengths, while addressing their challenges with compassion. These changes usually involve addressing unhelpful thoughts and behaviors by learning to manage difficult emotions.
(646) 402-6608 View (646) 402-6608
Photo of Josh Weinstein, Psychologist in 10003, NY
Josh Weinstein
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10003
I have experience working with those who have suffered emotional, physical, and sexual trauma, depression, anxiety, obsessive and compulsive tendencies, personality disorders and ongoing complex autoimmune diseases, such as Lyme.
The experience of suffering is unique for each individual and deserves respect and attention. I work to create a safe, non-judgmental environment where you can speak openly and be heard. Using language as our medium, I listen closely and with curiosity to hear your questions, fears, and desires. I wonder with you in a collaborative process about how your narratives have been formed and intervene to support revisions, bringing you into greater alignment with your personal truths. Putting words to experience lays the groundwork for greater mental freedom and lasting change to take place.
I have experience working with those who have suffered emotional, physical, and sexual trauma, depression, anxiety, obsessive and compulsive tendencies, personality disorders and ongoing complex autoimmune diseases, such as Lyme.
The experience of suffering is unique for each individual and deserves respect and attention. I work to create a safe, non-judgmental environment where you can speak openly and be heard. Using language as our medium, I listen closely and with curiosity to hear your questions, fears, and desires. I wonder with you in a collaborative process about how your narratives have been formed and intervene to support revisions, bringing you into greater alignment with your personal truths. Putting words to experience lays the groundwork for greater mental freedom and lasting change to take place.
(929) 407-3705 View (929) 407-3705
Photo of Brianne Rose-Baker, Counselor in 10003, NY
Brianne Rose-Baker
Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
New York, NY 10003  (Online Only)
In addition to this, I have a significant amount of experience in working with clients with personality disorders.
Hey there! My name is Bri and I’m excited that you’re here ready to start something great for yourself. If you're noticing that you resort to anger more often and faster, having difficulties finding enjoyment in your day to day life, or feeling disconnected from yourself and those around you, I can help you address all of these concerns. My role is to support you through all the ups, downs, triumphs, and challenges! I offer emotion and behavior based counseling that moves you towards feeling less overwhelmed by your feelings, more clear in how you process what you’re experiencing, and effectively expressing yourself.
In addition to this, I have a significant amount of experience in working with clients with personality disorders.
Hey there! My name is Bri and I’m excited that you’re here ready to start something great for yourself. If you're noticing that you resort to anger more often and faster, having difficulties finding enjoyment in your day to day life, or feeling disconnected from yourself and those around you, I can help you address all of these concerns. My role is to support you through all the ups, downs, triumphs, and challenges! I offer emotion and behavior based counseling that moves you towards feeling less overwhelmed by your feelings, more clear in how you process what you’re experiencing, and effectively expressing yourself.
(347) 712-3721 View (347) 712-3721
Photo of Larissa Portnoff, Psychologist in 10003, NY
Larissa Portnoff
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10003  (Online Only)
In terms of diagnosis, I am open to seeing all patients, however, have specialization in the treatment of mood disorders, anxiety, personality disorders, family issues, couple's counseling, severe trauma, and eating disorders.
I am a clinical psychologist with an extensive research background. Therefore, my therapeutic approach includes evidence-based techniques such as psychodynamic psychotherapy, CBT, and DBT. My hope is that mental health treatment becomes part of your routine, the same way we make plans to exercise or see a primary care specialist. Warmth and compassion I believe are keys to establishing a therapeutic sense of safety and trust. Then we can explore deeper issues such as shame, fear, sadness, and self-doubt. Together, we will make goals that lead to the changes you want in life.
In terms of diagnosis, I am open to seeing all patients, however, have specialization in the treatment of mood disorders, anxiety, personality disorders, family issues, couple's counseling, severe trauma, and eating disorders.
I am a clinical psychologist with an extensive research background. Therefore, my therapeutic approach includes evidence-based techniques such as psychodynamic psychotherapy, CBT, and DBT. My hope is that mental health treatment becomes part of your routine, the same way we make plans to exercise or see a primary care specialist. Warmth and compassion I believe are keys to establishing a therapeutic sense of safety and trust. Then we can explore deeper issues such as shame, fear, sadness, and self-doubt. Together, we will make goals that lead to the changes you want in life.
(332) 239-1448 View (332) 239-1448
Photo of Melody Clemons-Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10003, NY
Melody Clemons-Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10003
Melody Clemons-Smith, LCSW. Melody Clemons-Smith is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has a certification in working with the Forensic population. Melody is committed to providing therapy to individuals, couples and families. Some of Melody's clinical interests include working with high-conflict couples, socio-cultural issues, trauma, personality disorders, and cultural identity disorders. Melody utilizes an integrative and collaborative approach and tailors her work to each client’s specific needs and goals in the context of their life.
Melody Clemons-Smith, LCSW. Melody Clemons-Smith is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has a certification in working with the Forensic population. Melody is committed to providing therapy to individuals, couples and families. Some of Melody's clinical interests include working with high-conflict couples, socio-cultural issues, trauma, personality disorders, and cultural identity disorders. Melody utilizes an integrative and collaborative approach and tailors her work to each client’s specific needs and goals in the context of their life.
(646) 970-1767 View (646) 970-1767
Photo of Noah Bach Bar-Tura, Psychologist in 10003, NY
Noah Bach Bar-Tura
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10003
I work extensively with clients coping with relational difficulties, mood and anxiety concerns, traumatic events, adjustment difficulties, significant life transitions (such as immigration, transitioning to high school and college, international and first generation students, pregnancy, parenthood and adoption), and personality disorders.
Entering psychotherapy is an important and courageous decision. I view therapy primarily as an opportunity for a human encounter, and believe that through the therapeutic work you can grow, heal and develop healthier and more adaptive ways to deal with ongoing and new challenges. Our work will be based on your unique needs and the difficulties you are facing. I have an empathic, collaborative and direct approach to therapy that will allow you to see improvements. I am dedicated to assisting you in overcoming difficulties in your life, and will work with you to identify goals you wish to achieve.
I work extensively with clients coping with relational difficulties, mood and anxiety concerns, traumatic events, adjustment difficulties, significant life transitions (such as immigration, transitioning to high school and college, international and first generation students, pregnancy, parenthood and adoption), and personality disorders.
Entering psychotherapy is an important and courageous decision. I view therapy primarily as an opportunity for a human encounter, and believe that through the therapeutic work you can grow, heal and develop healthier and more adaptive ways to deal with ongoing and new challenges. Our work will be based on your unique needs and the difficulties you are facing. I have an empathic, collaborative and direct approach to therapy that will allow you to see improvements. I am dedicated to assisting you in overcoming difficulties in your life, and will work with you to identify goals you wish to achieve.
(341) 999-7770 View (341) 999-7770
Photo of Ami B. Kaplan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10003, NY
Ami B. Kaplan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10003
Specialties: Difficult or narcissistic parents, Gender Variance/Transgender issues, Relationships, Assertion. I help people feel more comfortable with their own agenda, deal with difficult individuals and change entrenched roles in relationships.
Specialties: Difficult or narcissistic parents, Gender Variance/Transgender issues, Relationships, Assertion. I help people feel more comfortable with their own agenda, deal with difficult individuals and change entrenched roles in relationships.
(646) 583-1185 View (646) 583-1185
Photo of Alexander Kriss, Psychologist in 10003, NY
Alexander Kriss
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10003
I have expertise treating various conditions, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, personality disorders, and digital addictions.
I work well with professional and creative individuals who want to learn more about themselves and their concerns in order to lead more fully realized and meaningful lives. The issues that bring you to therapy may have come up suddenly or been a part of your life for years; they may be easy to explain or seem impossibly complex. Regardless, my philosophy is to meet you where you are and build a treatment plan that makes sense for you, with a focus on empowering you to choose the life you want to live.
I have expertise treating various conditions, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, personality disorders, and digital addictions.
I work well with professional and creative individuals who want to learn more about themselves and their concerns in order to lead more fully realized and meaningful lives. The issues that bring you to therapy may have come up suddenly or been a part of your life for years; they may be easy to explain or seem impossibly complex. Regardless, my philosophy is to meet you where you are and build a treatment plan that makes sense for you, with a focus on empowering you to choose the life you want to live.
(646) 798-6099 View (646) 798-6099
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.