Personality Disorders Therapists in Los Angeles, CA

Photo of Bita Rahbar, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Bita Rahbar
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90024
I am a clinical psychologist working in private practice for over two decades. My practice welcomes adolescents and adults seeking help for a variety of issues. While I work with clients suffering from anxiety, depression, relationship, and adjustment issues, I maintain a specialty in eating disorders and personality disorders. I have worked in a number of treatment settings including inpatient and intensive outpatient programs. I worked as the Associate Director of the UCLA Intensive Outpatient Eating Disorders Program before starting my private practice.
I am a clinical psychologist working in private practice for over two decades. My practice welcomes adolescents and adults seeking help for a variety of issues. While I work with clients suffering from anxiety, depression, relationship, and adjustment issues, I maintain a specialty in eating disorders and personality disorders. I have worked in a number of treatment settings including inpatient and intensive outpatient programs. I worked as the Associate Director of the UCLA Intensive Outpatient Eating Disorders Program before starting my private practice.
(310) 928-9568 View (310) 928-9568
Photo of Kristin L Walker, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Kristin L Walker
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90024
At PEAKPsychLA, I specialize in suicide prevention, mood disorders, and personality disorders (including Borderline PD and Narcissistic PD).
Hello! I am a Licensed Psychologist and the founder of PEAKPsychLA - a private psychotherapy practice in Westwood near UCLA. I work with teenagers, adolescents, and adults who are experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, intense or overwhelming emotions, and alcohol/drug misuse. I also work with people living with major mood disorders and personality disorders. If you are struggling with any of these experiences, want to feel better, and are looking for someone you can trust to help, I provide individual therapy, couples, and/or family therapy, in person and via remote telehealth services.
At PEAKPsychLA, I specialize in suicide prevention, mood disorders, and personality disorders (including Borderline PD and Narcissistic PD).
Hello! I am a Licensed Psychologist and the founder of PEAKPsychLA - a private psychotherapy practice in Westwood near UCLA. I work with teenagers, adolescents, and adults who are experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, intense or overwhelming emotions, and alcohol/drug misuse. I also work with people living with major mood disorders and personality disorders. If you are struggling with any of these experiences, want to feel better, and are looking for someone you can trust to help, I provide individual therapy, couples, and/or family therapy, in person and via remote telehealth services.
(310) 340-0360 View (310) 340-0360
Photo of Elinor Bawnik, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Elinor Bawnik, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90016  (Online Only)
​I work towards supporting my clients in developing insights, overcome obstacles, and uncovering the version of themselves they seek to find. I understand that in the face of challenges, this becomes an incredibly daunting task. I offer a non-judgmental and compassionate space for clients to feel heard and understood. I work with individuals, couples, and families dealing with anxiety, OCD, personality disorders, relationship issues, and life transitions. I utilize DBT, CBT and ACT along with Narrative Therapy, and Family Systems approaches, incorporating behavioral techniques as needed.
​I work towards supporting my clients in developing insights, overcome obstacles, and uncovering the version of themselves they seek to find. I understand that in the face of challenges, this becomes an incredibly daunting task. I offer a non-judgmental and compassionate space for clients to feel heard and understood. I work with individuals, couples, and families dealing with anxiety, OCD, personality disorders, relationship issues, and life transitions. I utilize DBT, CBT and ACT along with Narrative Therapy, and Family Systems approaches, incorporating behavioral techniques as needed.
(323) 765-3872 View (323) 765-3872
Photo of Ashley Dawn Newman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Ashley Dawn Newman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071  (Online Only)
The pressures of the modern world seem never ending, particularly when you deal with an untreated or difficult to treat mental health or substance use issue. I specialize in certain mental health diagnoses including personality disorders, postpartum issues, depression/anxiety, self harm/suicidal ideation. I am prepared to assist you in offering helpful coping strategies, understanding the psychology behind your experiences/symptoms, processing feelings and thoughts, and gaining better traction on your life.
The pressures of the modern world seem never ending, particularly when you deal with an untreated or difficult to treat mental health or substance use issue. I specialize in certain mental health diagnoses including personality disorders, postpartum issues, depression/anxiety, self harm/suicidal ideation. I am prepared to assist you in offering helpful coping strategies, understanding the psychology behind your experiences/symptoms, processing feelings and thoughts, and gaining better traction on your life.
(909) 362-8213 View (909) 362-8213
Photo of Lacey Palmer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Lacey Palmer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90047
I specialize in both childhood and adult trauma, personality disorders (for both the diagnosed individual or their loved ones learning to navigate this diagnosis), mood disorders, and self-directed harm including suicidal ideation.
I completed the Ph.D. program in Psychology, Public Policy, and Law with an emphasis on Criminal Behavior under the umbrella of Forensic Psychology in March 2023, which has increased insight and awareness of the intersection between mental health and criminal justice systems. Additionally, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), I have a Master's degree in Counseling Psychology with an emphasis on Mindfulness, I am a certified Personality Disorder Provider (C-PD) and Chemical Dependency Specialist (CDS), and I have a Bachelor's degree in Psychology with a minor in Criminal Justice.
I specialize in both childhood and adult trauma, personality disorders (for both the diagnosed individual or their loved ones learning to navigate this diagnosis), mood disorders, and self-directed harm including suicidal ideation.
I completed the Ph.D. program in Psychology, Public Policy, and Law with an emphasis on Criminal Behavior under the umbrella of Forensic Psychology in March 2023, which has increased insight and awareness of the intersection between mental health and criminal justice systems. Additionally, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), I have a Master's degree in Counseling Psychology with an emphasis on Mindfulness, I am a certified Personality Disorder Provider (C-PD) and Chemical Dependency Specialist (CDS), and I have a Bachelor's degree in Psychology with a minor in Criminal Justice.
(951) 467-4894 View (951) 467-4894
Photo of Emily Keehn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Emily Keehn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90045  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Emily Keehn, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based out of Sacramento, but working virtually to better assist clients throughout California. I work with adults 18-65, specializing in anxiety, depression, trauma, and personality disorders using a variety of therapeutic techniques including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to help clients overcome barriers and feel better.
Hi, I'm Emily Keehn, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based out of Sacramento, but working virtually to better assist clients throughout California. I work with adults 18-65, specializing in anxiety, depression, trauma, and personality disorders using a variety of therapeutic techniques including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to help clients overcome barriers and feel better.
(916) 432-2437 View (916) 432-2437
Photo of Asher Johnson, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Asher Johnson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
If you struggle with anger management, sexual aggression, sex/pornography addiction, poor self-regulation/impulse control, anxiety, depression, trauma, antisocial, narcissistic, and psychopathic/sociopathic personalities, in need of a forensic psychological evaluation or testing, have a criminal record and/or required to register as a sex offender, have adult ADHD, difficulty with maintaining healthy relationships, low self-esteem, problems with healthy masculine expression, then you have found someone with the expertise, ability, and willingness to help.
If you struggle with anger management, sexual aggression, sex/pornography addiction, poor self-regulation/impulse control, anxiety, depression, trauma, antisocial, narcissistic, and psychopathic/sociopathic personalities, in need of a forensic psychological evaluation or testing, have a criminal record and/or required to register as a sex offender, have adult ADHD, difficulty with maintaining healthy relationships, low self-esteem, problems with healthy masculine expression, then you have found someone with the expertise, ability, and willingness to help.
(619) 815-8501 View (619) 815-8501
Photo of Hannah Schaler, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Hannah Schaler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90064
I am a trained LMFT and art therapist with experience treating trauma, neurodivergence, eating disorders, and personality disorders.
Being a human these days is hard, and even more so when you get into complicated dynamics with your relationships, job, or family. Perhaps it's all feeling like too much? Or maybe you have a hunch that you can live a fuller life? Reaching out to a therapist does not mean that you are broken; it means that you are ready to evolve. With my background in art and extensive therapeutic training, I offer a dynamic healing experience that addresses old patterns in both mind and body. I can provide a supportive and creative space for you to explore yourself, practice relational skills, and grow into a life that you truly want to be living.
I am a trained LMFT and art therapist with experience treating trauma, neurodivergence, eating disorders, and personality disorders.
Being a human these days is hard, and even more so when you get into complicated dynamics with your relationships, job, or family. Perhaps it's all feeling like too much? Or maybe you have a hunch that you can live a fuller life? Reaching out to a therapist does not mean that you are broken; it means that you are ready to evolve. With my background in art and extensive therapeutic training, I offer a dynamic healing experience that addresses old patterns in both mind and body. I can provide a supportive and creative space for you to explore yourself, practice relational skills, and grow into a life that you truly want to be living.
(424) 283-9321 View (424) 283-9321
Photo of Kristen Sherman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Kristen Sherman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90061  (Online Only)
I specialize in Mood disorders, ADHD, Substance use, and personality disorders.
Do you often feel overwhelmed, anxious, or hopeless? Do you struggle with finishing small tasks, getting out of bed, or freeze and can't get anything done?
I specialize in Mood disorders, ADHD, Substance use, and personality disorders.
Do you often feel overwhelmed, anxious, or hopeless? Do you struggle with finishing small tasks, getting out of bed, or freeze and can't get anything done?
(310) 987-4873 View (310) 987-4873
Photo of Catherine Speckmann, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Catherine Speckmann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90063
I am comfortable and have experience treating Addictions, ADHD, Adjustment Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Behavior Disorders, Borderline Personality Disorders, Dual Diagnosis, Grief and Loss, LGBTQIA+ Populations, Mood Disorders, Self-harm, Trauma and PTSD.
My name is Catherine, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker/Psychotherapist with a solid background working with clients that are experiencing Substance Use Disorders, Mood Disorders, Anxiety, and Grief Issues. I accept clients at all stages of the lifespan from 12 and up. My approach is client-centered and focused on empowerment. I use a strength-based philosophy and feel that the therapeutic relationship is of utmost importance. I use Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Behavioral Therapies to improve coping strategies. I meet my clients where they are and assist them to get to where they want to be.
I am comfortable and have experience treating Addictions, ADHD, Adjustment Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Behavior Disorders, Borderline Personality Disorders, Dual Diagnosis, Grief and Loss, LGBTQIA+ Populations, Mood Disorders, Self-harm, Trauma and PTSD.
My name is Catherine, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker/Psychotherapist with a solid background working with clients that are experiencing Substance Use Disorders, Mood Disorders, Anxiety, and Grief Issues. I accept clients at all stages of the lifespan from 12 and up. My approach is client-centered and focused on empowerment. I use a strength-based philosophy and feel that the therapeutic relationship is of utmost importance. I use Cognitive Behavioral and Dialectical Behavioral Therapies to improve coping strategies. I meet my clients where they are and assist them to get to where they want to be.
(323) 529-0964 View (323) 529-0964
Photo of Re-discovering You, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Re-discovering You
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Lila Galustian is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and the owner of Re-Discovering You, specializing in working with personality disorders and clients who struggle with regulating emotional distress and lack of self-esteem. They primarily work with adults and adolescents who have personality disorder diagnoses or multiple diagnoses of ADHD, anxiety, trauma and lack of self-esteem. Lila provides outpatient therapy helping clients navigate their symptoms by teaching implementation of CBT and DBT skills in skills application groups & individual therapy. They are an informed behavioral program and do not provide phone coaching.
Lila Galustian is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and the owner of Re-Discovering You, specializing in working with personality disorders and clients who struggle with regulating emotional distress and lack of self-esteem. They primarily work with adults and adolescents who have personality disorder diagnoses or multiple diagnoses of ADHD, anxiety, trauma and lack of self-esteem. Lila provides outpatient therapy helping clients navigate their symptoms by teaching implementation of CBT and DBT skills in skills application groups & individual therapy. They are an informed behavioral program and do not provide phone coaching.
(424) 283-9810 View (424) 283-9810
Photo of Kelly Albrecht, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Kelly Albrecht
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
With expertise in substance use disorder, ADHD, bipolar and personality disorders, my holistic approach to therapy prioritizes safety and healing, with trauma-informed care.
Are you struggling to process depression, anxiety, relationship/family issues, and trauma? These emotional ruptures can cause major disruptions in our lives. The work to process these types of life events is multifaceted, and I can help you identify your feelings and potential relational patterns, build tolerance and acceptance around challenging ones, and set meaningful goals. In order to do so, I utilize various therapeutic approaches consisting of ACT, CBT, and Problem-Solving Therapy, and somatic interventions.
With expertise in substance use disorder, ADHD, bipolar and personality disorders, my holistic approach to therapy prioritizes safety and healing, with trauma-informed care.
Are you struggling to process depression, anxiety, relationship/family issues, and trauma? These emotional ruptures can cause major disruptions in our lives. The work to process these types of life events is multifaceted, and I can help you identify your feelings and potential relational patterns, build tolerance and acceptance around challenging ones, and set meaningful goals. In order to do so, I utilize various therapeutic approaches consisting of ACT, CBT, and Problem-Solving Therapy, and somatic interventions.
(424) 688-3262 View (424) 688-3262
Photo of Sophia Giselle Rodriguez, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles, CA
Sophia Giselle Rodriguez
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90066
Life’s journey can lead us through challenging and unfamiliar terrain where feelings of being lost, discouraged, or in need of support become familiar. If you are navigating through these moments, I invite you to come work with me as you are. As an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, I specialize in working with clients dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, identity development, personality disorders, and relationship issues. I’m here to walk alongside you and help you to prioritize your personal goals and needs. In our sessions, you can expect an inclusive and authentic environment where you will feel welcome and heard.
Life’s journey can lead us through challenging and unfamiliar terrain where feelings of being lost, discouraged, or in need of support become familiar. If you are navigating through these moments, I invite you to come work with me as you are. As an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, I specialize in working with clients dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, identity development, personality disorders, and relationship issues. I’m here to walk alongside you and help you to prioritize your personal goals and needs. In our sessions, you can expect an inclusive and authentic environment where you will feel welcome and heard.
(424) 217-3696 View (424) 217-3696
Photo of Dr. Maria del Carmen Gutierrez, Psychological Associate in Los Angeles, CA
Dr. Maria del Carmen Gutierrez
Psychological Associate, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90048
I help clients with eating disorders, depression, anxiety, grief, life transitions, parenting, personality disorders, PTSD, recent immigrants, adjustment, domestic violence and childhood trauma.
Would you like to have a better relationship with yourself and with your body? I take a depth-oriented approach to helping you resolve early trauma, release shame, and develop a more secure way of relating to yourself and to others. The more deeply you understand yourself, the more you will be empowered to make healthier choices and live more present in the moment. I believe it is possible to connect to the joy in your life. As we work together in therapy, I will help you connect with your emotions, so they stop affecting your body, behavior, and relationships.
I help clients with eating disorders, depression, anxiety, grief, life transitions, parenting, personality disorders, PTSD, recent immigrants, adjustment, domestic violence and childhood trauma.
Would you like to have a better relationship with yourself and with your body? I take a depth-oriented approach to helping you resolve early trauma, release shame, and develop a more secure way of relating to yourself and to others. The more deeply you understand yourself, the more you will be empowered to make healthier choices and live more present in the moment. I believe it is possible to connect to the joy in your life. As we work together in therapy, I will help you connect with your emotions, so they stop affecting your body, behavior, and relationships.
(323) 616-1717 View (323) 616-1717
Photo of Aimee Mikalinis, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Aimee Mikalinis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90011
Hi there, I'm Aimee! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I was a peer counselor in high school and have worked in some form of mental health care for 16 years. I typically work with adolescents, adults, and mature adults. I am most comfortable treating PTSD, other trauma and stressor-related disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders, self-harm, dissociative disorders, and paraphilic disorders. I most commonly use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy as my therapeutic approach. I am also well-trained in CBT, EMDR, and Strength-based therapy. I am also a registered Art Therapist and I specialize in trauma.
Hi there, I'm Aimee! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I was a peer counselor in high school and have worked in some form of mental health care for 16 years. I typically work with adolescents, adults, and mature adults. I am most comfortable treating PTSD, other trauma and stressor-related disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders, self-harm, dissociative disorders, and paraphilic disorders. I most commonly use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy as my therapeutic approach. I am also well-trained in CBT, EMDR, and Strength-based therapy. I am also a registered Art Therapist and I specialize in trauma.
(310) 596-1849 View (310) 596-1849
Photo of Michelle Matthews, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Michelle Matthews
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MPA
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
I specialize working with adults suffering from Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar I/II, Psychotic Disorders and Personality Disorders.
NOW OFFERING TELETHERAPY TUESDAY-FRIDAY 6 PM- 8 PM! We are living in a unique political climate. Going through life transitions, and having trouble adjusting? How about ongoing fatigue and stress caring for family? Experiencing increasing worry, anxiety or depression? We all struggle sometimes. It can feel debilitating trying to keep everything to yourself and master every problem. Utilize self care and give me a call. Therapy is a safe space to process deep emotional material. So many of us spend so much time caring for everyone else. But, forget to save a little energy for ourselves, to address our own needs. It's time.
I specialize working with adults suffering from Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar I/II, Psychotic Disorders and Personality Disorders.
NOW OFFERING TELETHERAPY TUESDAY-FRIDAY 6 PM- 8 PM! We are living in a unique political climate. Going through life transitions, and having trouble adjusting? How about ongoing fatigue and stress caring for family? Experiencing increasing worry, anxiety or depression? We all struggle sometimes. It can feel debilitating trying to keep everything to yourself and master every problem. Utilize self care and give me a call. Therapy is a safe space to process deep emotional material. So many of us spend so much time caring for everyone else. But, forget to save a little energy for ourselves, to address our own needs. It's time.
(213) 261-8785 View (213) 261-8785
Photo of Shenae Brown, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Shenae Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90063
I have experience treating issues related to depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use disorders, bipolar, personality disorders, interpersonal violence, grief and loss, culture, cultural and systemic oppression, family or origin, and life purpose.
I am client-centered, compassionate, empathetic, hopeful and believe we all need help and support during life. I believe it's important to have a working and collaborative professional therapeutic relationship.
I have experience treating issues related to depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use disorders, bipolar, personality disorders, interpersonal violence, grief and loss, culture, cultural and systemic oppression, family or origin, and life purpose.
I am client-centered, compassionate, empathetic, hopeful and believe we all need help and support during life. I believe it's important to have a working and collaborative professional therapeutic relationship.
(323) 794-0939 View (323) 794-0939
Photo of Jessica Dineen, Pre-Licensed Professional in Los Angeles, CA
Jessica Dineen
Pre-Licensed Professional, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90067  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I treat survivors of Narcissistic abuse, codependency, divorce, coparenting, anxiety, women's issues, CPTSD, and trauma survivors. Clients often come to me tired of living in survival mode. They want someone to see them for who they really are, without feeling like they need to say the right things in therapy, or hold back parts of themselves. While working with me, I encourage you to show up as your truest self, free from judgment. If you can't be honest about who you really are in therapy, where can you?
I treat survivors of Narcissistic abuse, codependency, divorce, coparenting, anxiety, women's issues, CPTSD, and trauma survivors. Clients often come to me tired of living in survival mode. They want someone to see them for who they really are, without feeling like they need to say the right things in therapy, or hold back parts of themselves. While working with me, I encourage you to show up as your truest self, free from judgment. If you can't be honest about who you really are in therapy, where can you?
(949) 776-8353 View (949) 776-8353
Photo of Jesse Berkin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Jesse Berkin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in anxiety, depression, addiction, PTSD/C-PTSD, relationship/intimacy issues, family issues, grief/loss, life transitions, mood/personality disorders, co-occurring disorders, and I have experience working with clients of culturally diverse backgrounds. I bring forward a compassionate and inquisitive presence to create a safe space for the more intimate and vulnerable parts of yourself to be explored.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in anxiety, depression, addiction, PTSD/C-PTSD, relationship/intimacy issues, family issues, grief/loss, life transitions, mood/personality disorders, co-occurring disorders, and I have experience working with clients of culturally diverse backgrounds. I bring forward a compassionate and inquisitive presence to create a safe space for the more intimate and vulnerable parts of yourself to be explored.
(424) 352-8521 View (424) 352-8521
Photo of Tracy Santomarco, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Tracy Santomarco
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, #118841
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90048  (Online Only)
Are you beginning your path of healing after discovering you have been entwined in a narcissistic relationship? Whether it was with a romantic partner, family member, boss, or friend, the wounds left behind can run deep. Let's work together to rebuild your sense of self so you can emerge feeling stronger and more connected to who you are meant to be. I offer interactive and supportive sessions where open, honest communication thrive. Laughter and tears also find their place in our sessions as humor can offer perspective alongside compassion and healing.
Are you beginning your path of healing after discovering you have been entwined in a narcissistic relationship? Whether it was with a romantic partner, family member, boss, or friend, the wounds left behind can run deep. Let's work together to rebuild your sense of self so you can emerge feeling stronger and more connected to who you are meant to be. I offer interactive and supportive sessions where open, honest communication thrive. Laughter and tears also find their place in our sessions as humor can offer perspective alongside compassion and healing.
(424) 302-5444 View (424) 302-5444

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.