Therapists in 10285
Kathryn B Klingenstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, JD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10285
Not accepting new clients
We cannot change what happens to us, but we absolutely can change how we experience and respond to it. We all develop survival strategies to cope with the problems we have in life, but sometimes these strategies do not serve us well, or they end up harming our relationships. If you feel stuck: bogged down by thoughts and feelings that cause you to suffer, or trapped in an unhealthy relationship dynamic with a partner or family member, do not lose hope. I can help you become more aware of your internal emotional experience and work towards positive change.
We cannot change what happens to us, but we absolutely can change how we experience and respond to it. We all develop survival strategies to cope with the problems we have in life, but sometimes these strategies do not serve us well, or they end up harming our relationships. If you feel stuck: bogged down by thoughts and feelings that cause you to suffer, or trapped in an unhealthy relationship dynamic with a partner or family member, do not lose hope. I can help you become more aware of your internal emotional experience and work towards positive change.
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.