Personality Disorders Therapists in San Diego, CA

Photo of Gaelle Carey, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Gaelle Carey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92104  (Online Only)
Welcome! My name is Gaëlle Carey and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have worked with all types of people, from CEOs to stay-at-home parents. My ideal client is anyone who is interested in empowering their life. I am a direct person and like to get right down to business, but I also genuinely care about my clients' success. I have experience providing clinical assessment and therapeutic care to adolescents and adults seeking help with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use disorders, anger management, Post-traumatic stress disorder, Personality Disorders, ADHD management, and LGBTQ+ issues.
Welcome! My name is Gaëlle Carey and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have worked with all types of people, from CEOs to stay-at-home parents. My ideal client is anyone who is interested in empowering their life. I am a direct person and like to get right down to business, but I also genuinely care about my clients' success. I have experience providing clinical assessment and therapeutic care to adolescents and adults seeking help with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use disorders, anger management, Post-traumatic stress disorder, Personality Disorders, ADHD management, and LGBTQ+ issues.
(619) 329-8438 View (619) 329-8438
Photo of Asher Johnson, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
Asher Johnson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92101
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 Brenda Stephens - Author - Founder - Therapist, Counselor in San Diego, CA
Brenda Stephens - Author - Founder - Therapist
Counselor, MS, LPCC, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92123
Helping and guiding those who have experienced trauma, including the trauma of being in narcissistic or other toxic and antagonoistic relationships, is my focus as a therpaist. My training, skills, and tools are honed to help people heal from these experiences. With the use of Internal Family Systems (IFS), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), extensive training to treat all levels of dissociation (including DID), and regulating the nervous system to a more calm state, I can help my clients to manage the day to day much more effectively and start to live with more peace in their bodies and their lives.
Helping and guiding those who have experienced trauma, including the trauma of being in narcissistic or other toxic and antagonoistic relationships, is my focus as a therpaist. My training, skills, and tools are honed to help people heal from these experiences. With the use of Internal Family Systems (IFS), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), extensive training to treat all levels of dissociation (including DID), and regulating the nervous system to a more calm state, I can help my clients to manage the day to day much more effectively and start to live with more peace in their bodies and their lives.
(619) 304-4031 View (619) 304-4031
Photo of Reina Remigio, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
Reina Remigio
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92129  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with individuals, couples, and families struggling with overcontrol/excessive self-control. This can show up as rumination, hyper-perfectionism, rigidity, difficulty relaxing, and emotional loneliness (even with loved ones around). These challenges can intersect with substance abuse, suicidal ideation or attempts, and/or self-harm. Often, an overcontrolled coping style is central to conditions such as chronic anxiety/depression, eating disorders, and personality disorders like obsessive-compulsive and avoidant personalities. This way of coping may exacerbate or perpetuate trauma and grief symptoms as well.
I specialize in working with individuals, couples, and families struggling with overcontrol/excessive self-control. This can show up as rumination, hyper-perfectionism, rigidity, difficulty relaxing, and emotional loneliness (even with loved ones around). These challenges can intersect with substance abuse, suicidal ideation or attempts, and/or self-harm. Often, an overcontrolled coping style is central to conditions such as chronic anxiety/depression, eating disorders, and personality disorders like obsessive-compulsive and avoidant personalities. This way of coping may exacerbate or perpetuate trauma and grief symptoms as well.
(341) 899-1605 View (341) 899-1605
Photo of Ashley Dawn Newman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Ashley Dawn Newman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92182  (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 Marisa Farnsworth, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Marisa Farnsworth
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92132  (Online Only)
Encouraging and reinforcing positive self-talk and experiences, teaching problem-solving strategies to support independence, and increasing self-esteem are my biggest strengths and are effective in combating depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and personality disorders.
My name is Marisa and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I believe that you deserve a compassionate therapist, someone you can connect with and feel safe, supported, and understood as you move through the healing process. I love helping others discover and feel comfortable and accepting of their true selves without judgment. Utilizing an integrated and collaborative approach to therapy puts your role as the expert of your own life and my role as a guide to highlight your strengths and provide support. My goal is to empower you by helping you develop tools, skills, and strategies to achieve your goals.
Encouraging and reinforcing positive self-talk and experiences, teaching problem-solving strategies to support independence, and increasing self-esteem are my biggest strengths and are effective in combating depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and personality disorders.
My name is Marisa and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I believe that you deserve a compassionate therapist, someone you can connect with and feel safe, supported, and understood as you move through the healing process. I love helping others discover and feel comfortable and accepting of their true selves without judgment. Utilizing an integrated and collaborative approach to therapy puts your role as the expert of your own life and my role as a guide to highlight your strengths and provide support. My goal is to empower you by helping you develop tools, skills, and strategies to achieve your goals.
(657) 837-6749 View (657) 837-6749
Photo of Julia Mendoza, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Julia Mendoza
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92110  (Online Only)
Hello I'm Julia Mendoza, a therapist providing therapy throughout the state of California. I have experience working with children and adults, in the areas of depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, LGBT+ issues, OCD, personality disorders, family problems, relationship and partner conflict, and traumas. I truly enjoy helping others and I have been told that I am funny, genuine, open-minded, and a good listener. Se habla Español!
Hello I'm Julia Mendoza, a therapist providing therapy throughout the state of California. I have experience working with children and adults, in the areas of depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, LGBT+ issues, OCD, personality disorders, family problems, relationship and partner conflict, and traumas. I truly enjoy helping others and I have been told that I am funny, genuine, open-minded, and a good listener. Se habla Español!
(951) 438-7873 View (951) 438-7873
Photo of Shari L Turner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Shari L Turner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92123  (Online Only)
Whatever suffering has brought you here, welcome. You may be exhausted from feeling “Never Good Enough”, overwhelmed with shame, worry or sadness, hopeless about things getting better…or just need a safe, supportive place to heal? I would be honored to help. My clients tell me they feel “heard", listened to without being judged and feel better able to cope. I'm passionate about helping people struggling due to Narcissistic Abuse, Trauma & complex PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD & Autism Neurodivergence, Relationship concerns, Suicidal thoughts, Borderline Personality traits, Alcohol & Drug problems, and LGBTQ / Diversity issues.
Whatever suffering has brought you here, welcome. You may be exhausted from feeling “Never Good Enough”, overwhelmed with shame, worry or sadness, hopeless about things getting better…or just need a safe, supportive place to heal? I would be honored to help. My clients tell me they feel “heard", listened to without being judged and feel better able to cope. I'm passionate about helping people struggling due to Narcissistic Abuse, Trauma & complex PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD & Autism Neurodivergence, Relationship concerns, Suicidal thoughts, Borderline Personality traits, Alcohol & Drug problems, and LGBTQ / Diversity issues.
(858) 251-6552 View (858) 251-6552
Photo of Valerie Jennison, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Diego, CA
Valerie Jennison
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92127  (Online Only)
Do you feel stuck, hopeless, alone? Are you ready to move forward to a happier and more fulfilling life? I believe that with support, growth and change can happen naturally and gradually, and we can evolve into healthier and happier versions of ourselves. My areas of specialty focus on adults and adolescents struggling with substance use, mood disorders, personality disorders, grief and loss, and a variety of other challenges and life transitions. I use Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness techniques to aid in therapy.
Do you feel stuck, hopeless, alone? Are you ready to move forward to a happier and more fulfilling life? I believe that with support, growth and change can happen naturally and gradually, and we can evolve into healthier and happier versions of ourselves. My areas of specialty focus on adults and adolescents struggling with substance use, mood disorders, personality disorders, grief and loss, and a variety of other challenges and life transitions. I use Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness techniques to aid in therapy.
(858) 879-3029 View (858) 879-3029
Photo of Emily Walton, Counselor in San Diego, CA
Emily Walton
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101
I specialize in Narcissistic abuse recovery.
Welcome to Whole Integration Therapy! I'm Emily Walton, and I am a Licensed Clinicial Professional Counselor (LPCC). I work from a Relational approach to understand how your past is impacting your present. Working together, we can try new ways of relating in a safe and confidential space. While it is beneficial to work beyond the past, we must first know what we are working with. Once known, we move into targeted skills that focus on boundary development, interpersonal skills, communication, challenging unhelpful thoughts, self esteem/self concept/self identity, secure attachment within the therapeutic relationship.
I specialize in Narcissistic abuse recovery.
Welcome to Whole Integration Therapy! I'm Emily Walton, and I am a Licensed Clinicial Professional Counselor (LPCC). I work from a Relational approach to understand how your past is impacting your present. Working together, we can try new ways of relating in a safe and confidential space. While it is beneficial to work beyond the past, we must first know what we are working with. Once known, we move into targeted skills that focus on boundary development, interpersonal skills, communication, challenging unhelpful thoughts, self esteem/self concept/self identity, secure attachment within the therapeutic relationship.
(619) 314-8621 View (619) 314-8621
Photo of Nancy Phung-Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Nancy Phung-Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92120
The majority of my work has been with veterans; those recovering from addiction; individuals & families struggling with personality disorders; and Asian-Americans (students, professionals, trailblazers, and couples).
I am a body-centered therapist who specializes in working with trauma and emotion instability/intensity—this includes interpersonal relationships, depression, anger & anxiety. With this approach, we can get to a deeper understanding of diagnosis like Bipolar, Borderline Personality Disorder, and adult ADHD. Therapy is a two-pong approach: the skills & tools to get you through the day-to-day; and psychodynamic work of getting to the root of the issues (trauma-informed lens). I combine DBT/CBT skills and tools, with EMDR and tenants of IFS to stabilize symptoms, make way for healing, and a deeper understanding & connection to self.
The majority of my work has been with veterans; those recovering from addiction; individuals & families struggling with personality disorders; and Asian-Americans (students, professionals, trailblazers, and couples).
I am a body-centered therapist who specializes in working with trauma and emotion instability/intensity—this includes interpersonal relationships, depression, anger & anxiety. With this approach, we can get to a deeper understanding of diagnosis like Bipolar, Borderline Personality Disorder, and adult ADHD. Therapy is a two-pong approach: the skills & tools to get you through the day-to-day; and psychodynamic work of getting to the root of the issues (trauma-informed lens). I combine DBT/CBT skills and tools, with EMDR and tenants of IFS to stabilize symptoms, make way for healing, and a deeper understanding & connection to self.
(619) 413-9507 View (619) 413-9507
Photo of Jay Alarcon, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Jay Alarcon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CEDS, MBA
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92120
I specialize in DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) for the treatment of especially difficult to treat issues such as: PTSD, Severe Depression, Eating Disorders, Self-Harm, Suicidal Ideation, and Personality Disorders.
Coming to therapy can feel vulnerable and scary, but it is a brave step towards the life you want and deserve. I am guided by evidence based techniques, educated insight, and genuine curiosity. I work to nurture my clients’ sensitivities, strengths, hopes, and desires for a meaningful and fulfilling existence. I help individuals tap into their inner strength and thrive, to connect to their passions, couples seeking effective communication techniques and highly sensitive people understand their trait and harness their superpower! I support individuals from diverse backgrounds and sexual orientations, navigate cultural challenges
I specialize in DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) for the treatment of especially difficult to treat issues such as: PTSD, Severe Depression, Eating Disorders, Self-Harm, Suicidal Ideation, and Personality Disorders.
Coming to therapy can feel vulnerable and scary, but it is a brave step towards the life you want and deserve. I am guided by evidence based techniques, educated insight, and genuine curiosity. I work to nurture my clients’ sensitivities, strengths, hopes, and desires for a meaningful and fulfilling existence. I help individuals tap into their inner strength and thrive, to connect to their passions, couples seeking effective communication techniques and highly sensitive people understand their trait and harness their superpower! I support individuals from diverse backgrounds and sexual orientations, navigate cultural challenges
(858) 360-8251 View (858) 360-8251
Photo of Ashlee Wilson, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in San Diego, CA
Ashlee Wilson
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92122
I utilize evidence based practices to treat depression, anxiety, addictions, personality disorders, and trauma.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who specializes in co-occurring (mental health and substance abuse) disorders. I have been practicing for several years and believe in treating clients with mental health and/or substance abuse issues from a holistic approach. While medicine management can be a crucial aspect of treatment, I believe, to aid healing one must consider the human as a whole.
I utilize evidence based practices to treat depression, anxiety, addictions, personality disorders, and trauma.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who specializes in co-occurring (mental health and substance abuse) disorders. I have been practicing for several years and believe in treating clients with mental health and/or substance abuse issues from a holistic approach. While medicine management can be a crucial aspect of treatment, I believe, to aid healing one must consider the human as a whole.
(858) 289-0160 View (858) 289-0160
Photo of Sarah Mugford, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in San Diego, CA
Sarah Mugford
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, AMFT, APC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92121
My experience has given me the privilege to work with adults of all ages and adolescents with co-occurring disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, addictive disorders, and some personality disorders. I have a passion for working with young people and their families to get through difficult times. I often work with folx who are survivors of trauma including PTSD and CPTSD. I am knowledgeable in many subcultures, sexualities and societal challenges that face many individuals.
My experience has given me the privilege to work with adults of all ages and adolescents with co-occurring disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, addictive disorders, and some personality disorders. I have a passion for working with young people and their families to get through difficult times. I often work with folx who are survivors of trauma including PTSD and CPTSD. I am knowledgeable in many subcultures, sexualities and societal challenges that face many individuals.
(858) 682-1460 View (858) 682-1460
Photo of Jordan D Danly, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Jordan D Danly
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92121
I have extensive experience working with mood/anxiety disorders, personality disorders, gender issues, and high conflict couples.
I provide comprehensive Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) for adults and adolescents with difficulty regulating emotions, maintaining healthy and close relationships, and tolerating distress. I have experience and training working with those who have thoughts or urges for suicide and self harm. I want to help you build the life you have always desired! I am also a trained Gender Therapist and enjoy working with gender-expansive and transgender youth and adults seeking support for their gender identity and/or transition process. In addition, I am a Level 2 Gottman trained Couples Therapist.
I have extensive experience working with mood/anxiety disorders, personality disorders, gender issues, and high conflict couples.
I provide comprehensive Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) for adults and adolescents with difficulty regulating emotions, maintaining healthy and close relationships, and tolerating distress. I have experience and training working with those who have thoughts or urges for suicide and self harm. I want to help you build the life you have always desired! I am also a trained Gender Therapist and enjoy working with gender-expansive and transgender youth and adults seeking support for their gender identity and/or transition process. In addition, I am a Level 2 Gottman trained Couples Therapist.
(858) 252-0503 View (858) 252-0503
Photo of Katie Tran Aguiar, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Katie Tran Aguiar
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108  (Online Only)
I strive to pursue an authentic relationship with my clients using strong communication skills and complete transparency. I believe each individual is an expert in their own life, and therefore collaboration is highly valued in my work process. I specialize in young adults, adults, couples, and families with emphasis on trauma, anxiety/depression, life transitions, and other personality disorders.
I strive to pursue an authentic relationship with my clients using strong communication skills and complete transparency. I believe each individual is an expert in their own life, and therefore collaboration is highly valued in my work process. I specialize in young adults, adults, couples, and families with emphasis on trauma, anxiety/depression, life transitions, and other personality disorders.
(619) 292-0301 View (619) 292-0301
Photo of Shawna Bethel, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Shawna Bethel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92121  (Online Only)
My team provides specialized treatment that is evidenced based for persons and family members with personality disorders, mood disorders and those impacted by trauma.
People often feel vulnerable and overwhelmed when starting therapy. My approach to therapy is that therapy is a partnership between the client and the therapist. I believe it is important that we both are working towards the same goal and that you feel comfortable enough to be honest and open to my help. Creating a partnership will help the two of us make progress together and empower you to be aware of your own potential. I provide individual, couples, family and group therapies. All therapies focus on developing skills to make lasting change and to improve self esteem.
My team provides specialized treatment that is evidenced based for persons and family members with personality disorders, mood disorders and those impacted by trauma.
People often feel vulnerable and overwhelmed when starting therapy. My approach to therapy is that therapy is a partnership between the client and the therapist. I believe it is important that we both are working towards the same goal and that you feel comfortable enough to be honest and open to my help. Creating a partnership will help the two of us make progress together and empower you to be aware of your own potential. I provide individual, couples, family and group therapies. All therapies focus on developing skills to make lasting change and to improve self esteem.
(619) 404-6210 View (619) 404-6210
Photo of Chris Cade, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in San Diego, CA
Chris Cade
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92116
I specialize in processing trauma, building self-esteem, relationship issues, men's issues, anxiety, disordered eating, and narcissistic abuse.
Seeking help can be a vulnerable and overwhelming experience for many people, and it is courageous to take those steps forward. I tailor our sessions to your unique needs, working collaboratively to foster insight and promote positive change and self growth. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or simply seeking personal growth, we will work together to develop strategies to effectively reach your goals. Our therapeutic relationship is built on trust, empathy, and non-judgment, providing you with a nurturing environment to explore your thoughts and emotions openly.
I specialize in processing trauma, building self-esteem, relationship issues, men's issues, anxiety, disordered eating, and narcissistic abuse.
Seeking help can be a vulnerable and overwhelming experience for many people, and it is courageous to take those steps forward. I tailor our sessions to your unique needs, working collaboratively to foster insight and promote positive change and self growth. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or simply seeking personal growth, we will work together to develop strategies to effectively reach your goals. Our therapeutic relationship is built on trust, empathy, and non-judgment, providing you with a nurturing environment to explore your thoughts and emotions openly.
(858) 682-1554 View (858) 682-1554
Photo of Natalie Wilson, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Natalie Wilson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92130  (Online Only)
Your potential to reclaim your happiness starts here. Our therapy services offer personalized support for adults facing depression, anxiety, PTSD, relationship challenges, narcissistic abuse recovery, and life transitions. With unwavering support and personalized strategies tailored to your unique needs, we'll guide you towards lasting healing and a renewed sense of self. Step into your full potential today!
Your potential to reclaim your happiness starts here. Our therapy services offer personalized support for adults facing depression, anxiety, PTSD, relationship challenges, narcissistic abuse recovery, and life transitions. With unwavering support and personalized strategies tailored to your unique needs, we'll guide you towards lasting healing and a renewed sense of self. Step into your full potential today!
(858) 251-7870 View (858) 251-7870
Photo of Lindsay Kramer Damoose, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Lindsay Kramer Damoose
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in treating substance use disorders, trauma, mood/anxiety, and relational issues. I have spent my career working with adolescents and adults in various treatment settings and have worked with a variety of issues in my private practice. I have been happily employed within the Sharp Healthcare system since 2013, and I currently support the overall wellness of frontline staff at one of our medical hospitals. My previous work through Sharp has been providing trauma-informed care to patients with substance use disorders, severe mental illness, personality disorders, and other phase-of-life issues.
I specialize in treating substance use disorders, trauma, mood/anxiety, and relational issues. I have spent my career working with adolescents and adults in various treatment settings and have worked with a variety of issues in my private practice. I have been happily employed within the Sharp Healthcare system since 2013, and I currently support the overall wellness of frontline staff at one of our medical hospitals. My previous work through Sharp has been providing trauma-informed care to patients with substance use disorders, severe mental illness, personality disorders, and other phase-of-life issues.
(619) 329-9662 View (619) 329-9662

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.