Personality Disorders Therapists in Chicago, IL

Photo of Dr. Steven Jennings, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Dr. Steven Jennings
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60622  (Online Only)
As a therapist, my focus is schizophrenia/psychosis and personality disorders.
When you are in psychological distress and someone really hears you without passing judgement, without trying to take responsibility, without trying to mold you, the impact can be profound. I strive to be authentic, accepting, and empathetic in the therapeutic relationship to provide a safe space that allows for you to be truly heard. My ideal client is one who is open to doing the difficult work. Yes, if we do the work then life becomes an opportunity to love, and live.
As a therapist, my focus is schizophrenia/psychosis and personality disorders.
When you are in psychological distress and someone really hears you without passing judgement, without trying to take responsibility, without trying to mold you, the impact can be profound. I strive to be authentic, accepting, and empathetic in the therapeutic relationship to provide a safe space that allows for you to be truly heard. My ideal client is one who is open to doing the difficult work. Yes, if we do the work then life becomes an opportunity to love, and live.
(312) 625-6604 View (312) 625-6604
Photo of Melissa A. Novak, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Melissa A. Novak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
Waitlist for new clients
The therapeutic relationship is a safe place to explore, examine, and assess where you are today versus where you want to be in future. Together, we will identify the challenges that keep you from living a more satisfying life and develop concrete plans and skills to address these obstacles. My approach is always collaborative, in which you are the expert of your own experience and strengths. I work with couples and adults with a variety of issues such as sexual dysfunction, anxiety, phobias, obsessive-compulsive disorder, personality disorders, and PTSD.
The therapeutic relationship is a safe place to explore, examine, and assess where you are today versus where you want to be in future. Together, we will identify the challenges that keep you from living a more satisfying life and develop concrete plans and skills to address these obstacles. My approach is always collaborative, in which you are the expert of your own experience and strengths. I work with couples and adults with a variety of issues such as sexual dysfunction, anxiety, phobias, obsessive-compulsive disorder, personality disorders, and PTSD.
(773) 922-6527 View (773) 922-6527
Photo of Nicole Tyrpak, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Nicole Tyrpak
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60622  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with individuals who are experiencing difficulties with their relationship with food and eating disorders, mood and personality disorders, and trauma.
Hi! I'm Nicole. Whether it's unraveling the impact of trauma, managing the complexities of eating disorders, or navigating the depths of depression and anxiety, I'm here to provide you with tailored, evidence-based strategies for healing.I understand the unique struggles associated with identity and stigma in the context of these conditions. I prioritize feelings of safety and belonging. Together, we'll explore ways to develop a strong and resilient sense of self, free from the burdens of societal judgment.My ultimate goal is to empower you to not only overcome your challenges but to thrive and find a path to a more fulfilling life.
I specialize in working with individuals who are experiencing difficulties with their relationship with food and eating disorders, mood and personality disorders, and trauma.
Hi! I'm Nicole. Whether it's unraveling the impact of trauma, managing the complexities of eating disorders, or navigating the depths of depression and anxiety, I'm here to provide you with tailored, evidence-based strategies for healing.I understand the unique struggles associated with identity and stigma in the context of these conditions. I prioritize feelings of safety and belonging. Together, we'll explore ways to develop a strong and resilient sense of self, free from the burdens of societal judgment.My ultimate goal is to empower you to not only overcome your challenges but to thrive and find a path to a more fulfilling life.
(773) 249-9314 View (773) 249-9314
Photo of Stephanie Czarnecki, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Stephanie Czarnecki
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT Ca, MVF-CSW, C-CATOD, CGC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60607  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed therapist, CSAT candidate focused on individuals dealing with trauma (PTSD, betrayal trauma, etc.), sex and porn addiction, substance use/addiction, and personality disorders. If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or struggling to cope with life's challenges, you're not alone. Many people go through difficult periods in their lives where they need extra support and guidance. Therapy can be a transformative experience that helps individuals improve their mental health, build resilience, and live a more fulfilling life.
I am a licensed therapist, CSAT candidate focused on individuals dealing with trauma (PTSD, betrayal trauma, etc.), sex and porn addiction, substance use/addiction, and personality disorders. If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or struggling to cope with life's challenges, you're not alone. Many people go through difficult periods in their lives where they need extra support and guidance. Therapy can be a transformative experience that helps individuals improve their mental health, build resilience, and live a more fulfilling life.
(309) 305-9670 View (309) 305-9670
Photo of Amanda Sharp-Potter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Amanda Sharp-Potter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60606  (Online Only)
A large portion of my focus has been personality disorders and professional burnout.
I spent 2 years working in crisis intervention. While meeting clients in the community I realized how important being part of a person’s follow up/ recovery was for me. This brought me to my 7 years as a therapist.
A large portion of my focus has been personality disorders and professional burnout.
I spent 2 years working in crisis intervention. While meeting clients in the community I realized how important being part of a person’s follow up/ recovery was for me. This brought me to my 7 years as a therapist.
(309) 703-3472 View (309) 703-3472
Photo of David E. Briggs, Counselor in Chicago, IL
David E. Briggs
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60630
I have comprehensive training and experience working with men and women struggling with complicated grief, depression, anxiety, anger, addiction, personality disorders and traumatic childhood experiences.
All of us experience the feeling of being stuck in some way, perhaps frustrated by challenging life circumstances, discouraged by unfulfilling relationships or just generally stirred up by the vague sense that something is just not working. Through the course of my experience, I have come to believe deeply in the power of the therapeutic relationship and the way in which a collaboration with a thoughtful, compassionate and dedicated therapist can be the catalyst for real change.
I have comprehensive training and experience working with men and women struggling with complicated grief, depression, anxiety, anger, addiction, personality disorders and traumatic childhood experiences.
All of us experience the feeling of being stuck in some way, perhaps frustrated by challenging life circumstances, discouraged by unfulfilling relationships or just generally stirred up by the vague sense that something is just not working. Through the course of my experience, I have come to believe deeply in the power of the therapeutic relationship and the way in which a collaboration with a thoughtful, compassionate and dedicated therapist can be the catalyst for real change.
(847) 379-5124 View (847) 379-5124
Photo of Mandy Eisenberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Mandy Eisenberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60604  (Online Only)
Throughout my time working in mental health I have worked with clients with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, personality disorders, and substance and alcohol use disorders. My greatest skill as a therapist is being able to work with clients and help them feel accepted, heard, and understood. I have been trained in many therapy modalities and use these skills to help clients learn coping skills to better manage and cope with daily stress and symptoms they have previously suffered from. I believe change is possible.
Throughout my time working in mental health I have worked with clients with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, personality disorders, and substance and alcohol use disorders. My greatest skill as a therapist is being able to work with clients and help them feel accepted, heard, and understood. I have been trained in many therapy modalities and use these skills to help clients learn coping skills to better manage and cope with daily stress and symptoms they have previously suffered from. I believe change is possible.
(815) 248-5604 View (815) 248-5604
Photo of Andrea D. Coulter, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Andrea D. Coulter
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60603  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive training and experience helping individuals with symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD, complex (childhood) trauma, sexual assault survivors, relationship difficulties, as well as, those who struggle with personality disorders.
I commend you for contemplating this important step toward attending to your own wellbeing. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois with 10 years of experience. I would describe my approach as warm and compassionate, but I will also challenge you when needed. My ultimate goal is to help you gain the tools and insight to meet your goals. I meet my clients where they are and work collaboratively with them to develop a plan for getting them where they want to be. If you are suffering psychologically, emotionally, or relationally, therapy can be an excellent way to move toward greater wellness.
I have extensive training and experience helping individuals with symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD, complex (childhood) trauma, sexual assault survivors, relationship difficulties, as well as, those who struggle with personality disorders.
I commend you for contemplating this important step toward attending to your own wellbeing. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois with 10 years of experience. I would describe my approach as warm and compassionate, but I will also challenge you when needed. My ultimate goal is to help you gain the tools and insight to meet your goals. I meet my clients where they are and work collaboratively with them to develop a plan for getting them where they want to be. If you are suffering psychologically, emotionally, or relationally, therapy can be an excellent way to move toward greater wellness.
(618) 565-9118 View (618) 565-9118
Photo of Tricia Dwyer, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Tricia Dwyer
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60647
I have experience with depression, anxiety, non-suicidal self-injury, eating disorders, self-esteem, substance abuse, suicidal thoughts, psychosis, personality disorders, LGBTQIA issues, interpersonal issues, and trauma/PTSD.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and hold a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Northeastern Illinois University. I believe everyone deserves to live a life worth living and it's my role to help clients achieve that goal. I believe in a very collaborative relationship with clients to help build an open and honest relationship. I will work very hard to provide you with a nonjudgmental space to allow for safe self-expression while processing and gaining an understanding of behaviors, thought patterns, and core beliefs.
I have experience with depression, anxiety, non-suicidal self-injury, eating disorders, self-esteem, substance abuse, suicidal thoughts, psychosis, personality disorders, LGBTQIA issues, interpersonal issues, and trauma/PTSD.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and hold a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Northeastern Illinois University. I believe everyone deserves to live a life worth living and it's my role to help clients achieve that goal. I believe in a very collaborative relationship with clients to help build an open and honest relationship. I will work very hard to provide you with a nonjudgmental space to allow for safe self-expression while processing and gaining an understanding of behaviors, thought patterns, and core beliefs.
(773) 923-3631 View (773) 923-3631
Photo of Evolve Counseling & Consults, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Evolve Counseling & Consults
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60615
Evolve Counseling is a Chicago-based group practice of professional counselors providing psychotherapy treatment in-person and (virtual) online. We stand ready to assist clients that present with discomfort due to life’s challenges including relationship problems, loneliness, relocation, job stress, grief, discrimination, etc. We also treat clinical disorders that have symptoms of anxiety, depression, bipolar, trauma, postpartum, anger, personality disorders, and ADHD to name a few.
Evolve Counseling is a Chicago-based group practice of professional counselors providing psychotherapy treatment in-person and (virtual) online. We stand ready to assist clients that present with discomfort due to life’s challenges including relationship problems, loneliness, relocation, job stress, grief, discrimination, etc. We also treat clinical disorders that have symptoms of anxiety, depression, bipolar, trauma, postpartum, anger, personality disorders, and ADHD to name a few.
(872) 276-8688 View (872) 276-8688
Photo of Hannah Waldman, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Hannah Waldman
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
Hannah’s clinical interests include mood disorders, personality disorders, and religious trauma.
Hannah is a fourth-year doctoral student in clinical psychology at Adler University. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in psychology, neuroscience, and political science from Hiram College in 2020. Prior to Allow Wellness, she provided therapeutic services at a private practice where she worked with families and individuals on issues related to aging, parental loss/grief, chronic pain, school and workplace accommodations, and accessing gender affirming medical care. She also conducted psychological assessments and facilitated group therapy at an inpatient psychiatric hospital with primarily adolescents and adults.
Hannah’s clinical interests include mood disorders, personality disorders, and religious trauma.
Hannah is a fourth-year doctoral student in clinical psychology at Adler University. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in psychology, neuroscience, and political science from Hiram College in 2020. Prior to Allow Wellness, she provided therapeutic services at a private practice where she worked with families and individuals on issues related to aging, parental loss/grief, chronic pain, school and workplace accommodations, and accessing gender affirming medical care. She also conducted psychological assessments and facilitated group therapy at an inpatient psychiatric hospital with primarily adolescents and adults.
(312) 467-7544 View (312) 467-7544
Photo of Mallory Price, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Mallory Price
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60615
Waitlist for new clients
I work with many college-age and grad students, adults, and older adults who have experienced complex trauma, struggled with depression, anxiety, grief issues, substance use and/or personality disorders.
I strive to develop a collaborative environment with each client so they can feel safe and comfortable discussing what brought them to therapy, identify their goals, and take steps to building a meaningful and rich life. I am interactive in the therapy process and support clients with practical tools and strategies to challenge old patterns, while incorporating new skills that aim to improve the client's ability to live more intentionally and authentically. I employ elements of ACT, DBT, and CBT to respond to the unique needs of the individual.
I work with many college-age and grad students, adults, and older adults who have experienced complex trauma, struggled with depression, anxiety, grief issues, substance use and/or personality disorders.
I strive to develop a collaborative environment with each client so they can feel safe and comfortable discussing what brought them to therapy, identify their goals, and take steps to building a meaningful and rich life. I am interactive in the therapy process and support clients with practical tools and strategies to challenge old patterns, while incorporating new skills that aim to improve the client's ability to live more intentionally and authentically. I employ elements of ACT, DBT, and CBT to respond to the unique needs of the individual.
(773) 345-9515 View (773) 345-9515
Photo of Mercedes Cisneros-Watson, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Mercedes Cisneros-Watson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60609
Thank you for choosing me, Mercedes P Cisneros Watson -Watson MA., LCPC and Path for your Counseling needs. I “Mercedes” a Native of Chicago, am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), in the State of Illinois Department of Professional Regulations since 1998. My Clinical counseling experience spans over 30 years. My areas of clinical interest include addressing adult Women’s and Men’s life issues such as Intergenerational Trauma Survivors, Grief/ Loss, Divorce, Abusive relationships and, General Mood Disorders ie, Depression, General Anxiety Disorders. Gender Dysphoria, and Various personality disorders.
Thank you for choosing me, Mercedes P Cisneros Watson -Watson MA., LCPC and Path for your Counseling needs. I “Mercedes” a Native of Chicago, am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), in the State of Illinois Department of Professional Regulations since 1998. My Clinical counseling experience spans over 30 years. My areas of clinical interest include addressing adult Women’s and Men’s life issues such as Intergenerational Trauma Survivors, Grief/ Loss, Divorce, Abusive relationships and, General Mood Disorders ie, Depression, General Anxiety Disorders. Gender Dysphoria, and Various personality disorders.
(773) 207-2790 View (773) 207-2790
Photo of Thomas Vittoria, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Chicago, IL
Thomas Vittoria
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614
I have been providing mental and behavioral support to children, adolescents, and adults for over 20 years. I enjoy helping couples (particularly neurodiverse), find common ground and connection. I have extensive experience working with individuals on the Autism Spectrum. I also work with folks living with Schizophrenia, Bipolar, and Personality Disorders. I enjoy using play therapy with children to build strength through their understanding of the world. My work with different client needs and strengths keeps me excited, engaged, and active in each journey toward stability and wellness.
I have been providing mental and behavioral support to children, adolescents, and adults for over 20 years. I enjoy helping couples (particularly neurodiverse), find common ground and connection. I have extensive experience working with individuals on the Autism Spectrum. I also work with folks living with Schizophrenia, Bipolar, and Personality Disorders. I enjoy using play therapy with children to build strength through their understanding of the world. My work with different client needs and strengths keeps me excited, engaged, and active in each journey toward stability and wellness.
(872) 259-5215 View (872) 259-5215
Photo of Jessica L. Hudson, PhD, PLLC, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Jessica L. Hudson, PhD, PLLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60660
Some of my specialty areas include: depression, anxiety, relationship issues, identity development, life transitions, coming out, gender identity, personality disorders, and behavior disorders.
I am a Clinical Psychologist in private practice in the Andersonville/Edgewater neighborhood of Chicago. I provide individual, family and/or couples therapy with adults, adolescents, and children age five and up. My style is warm, non-judgmental, compassionate, and direct. I believe a strong, trusting, collaborative relationship with one's therapist is vital to realizing change and experiencing growth. I take particular care in tailoring interventions to meet an individual's needs and emphasize their strengths. My approach is largely based on cognitive-behavioral and relational techniques.
Some of my specialty areas include: depression, anxiety, relationship issues, identity development, life transitions, coming out, gender identity, personality disorders, and behavior disorders.
I am a Clinical Psychologist in private practice in the Andersonville/Edgewater neighborhood of Chicago. I provide individual, family and/or couples therapy with adults, adolescents, and children age five and up. My style is warm, non-judgmental, compassionate, and direct. I believe a strong, trusting, collaborative relationship with one's therapist is vital to realizing change and experiencing growth. I take particular care in tailoring interventions to meet an individual's needs and emphasize their strengths. My approach is largely based on cognitive-behavioral and relational techniques.
(773) 657-4142 View (773) 657-4142
Photo of Devin Teicher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Devin Teicher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60617
Hello to all! My name is Devin Teicher and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both Illinois and Colorado. I believe that building a trusting relationship and safe environment is the centerpiece of all therapeutic collaboration. My background is primarily in behavioral health, specifically outpatient therapy, crisis counseling, and substance use disorder treatment. I have worked with clients who experience a range of behavioral health concerns, to include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, adjustment disorders, personality disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and substance use disorders.
Hello to all! My name is Devin Teicher and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both Illinois and Colorado. I believe that building a trusting relationship and safe environment is the centerpiece of all therapeutic collaboration. My background is primarily in behavioral health, specifically outpatient therapy, crisis counseling, and substance use disorder treatment. I have worked with clients who experience a range of behavioral health concerns, to include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, adjustment disorders, personality disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and substance use disorders.
(773) 557-7202 View (773) 557-7202
Photo of Patrick Dawley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Patrick Dawley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60618
As your psychotherapist, you can expect I'll collaborate with you from our first point of contact to understand what's getting in the way of a higher quality of life. I work with warmth and emotional authenticity, drawing on advanced psychoanalytic training to thoughtfully treat depression, anxiety, psychosis, personality disorders, and chronic relationship stress. All of your thoughts, feelings, perceptions, and fantasies are welcome in therapy - nothing is off limits. I approach each treatment with highly individualized care, and I'll work with you to chart a course for growth based on your unique needs.
As your psychotherapist, you can expect I'll collaborate with you from our first point of contact to understand what's getting in the way of a higher quality of life. I work with warmth and emotional authenticity, drawing on advanced psychoanalytic training to thoughtfully treat depression, anxiety, psychosis, personality disorders, and chronic relationship stress. All of your thoughts, feelings, perceptions, and fantasies are welcome in therapy - nothing is off limits. I approach each treatment with highly individualized care, and I'll work with you to chart a course for growth based on your unique needs.
(773) 645-1707 View (773) 645-1707
Photo of Christine Collins, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Christine Collins
Counselor, LCPC, NCC, CADC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60610
It is my goal as a therapist to create a trusting, supportive, non-judgmental relationship with you. I work with adults of all ages, and I focus on your strengths to move you towards the future you desire. I specialize in helping individuals navigate their way to sobriety, I understand that it takes time for behavior change and inner healing. I also work with other disorders, mood disorders, depression, anxiety and personality disorders which may or may not present with addiction concerns. I integrate spirituality and Christian perspectives when requested.
It is my goal as a therapist to create a trusting, supportive, non-judgmental relationship with you. I work with adults of all ages, and I focus on your strengths to move you towards the future you desire. I specialize in helping individuals navigate their way to sobriety, I understand that it takes time for behavior change and inner healing. I also work with other disorders, mood disorders, depression, anxiety and personality disorders which may or may not present with addiction concerns. I integrate spirituality and Christian perspectives when requested.
(872) 241-2189 View (872) 241-2189
Photo of Felicia Muhammad, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Felicia Muhammad
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60636  (Online Only)
My professional background includes working with a wide variety of clients ranging from children to older adults. I have provided mental health counseling including individual, group and family therapy. I have worked with a broad range of presenting issues including anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, adjustment difficulties, grief and loss, relationship problems, family conflict, mood disorders, personality disorders, psychosis, thinking disorders, codependency, domestic violence, self-esteem, women’s issues, spirituality, chronic illness, chronic pain, dual diagnosis, and addictions.
My professional background includes working with a wide variety of clients ranging from children to older adults. I have provided mental health counseling including individual, group and family therapy. I have worked with a broad range of presenting issues including anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, adjustment difficulties, grief and loss, relationship problems, family conflict, mood disorders, personality disorders, psychosis, thinking disorders, codependency, domestic violence, self-esteem, women’s issues, spirituality, chronic illness, chronic pain, dual diagnosis, and addictions.
(773) 825-3667 View (773) 825-3667
Photo of Carolyn A Braverman, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Carolyn A Braverman
Counselor, MA, LCPC, DTR
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60603
Carolyn has a particular interest in working with depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, trauma, and substance abuse.
With over 20 years of experience in the field of mental health, Carolyn has come to trust that the therapeutic bond is crucial to a feeling of safety for the client. Because therapy is an intimate experience, she tailors treatment plans as a co-created process, ensuring that the client’s needs are prioritized. Carolyn integrates techniques to tailor solutions that are not only practical but create lasting change. As a psychotherapist, Carolyn works with individuals, couples, and families.
Carolyn has a particular interest in working with depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, trauma, and substance abuse.
With over 20 years of experience in the field of mental health, Carolyn has come to trust that the therapeutic bond is crucial to a feeling of safety for the client. Because therapy is an intimate experience, she tailors treatment plans as a co-created process, ensuring that the client’s needs are prioritized. Carolyn integrates techniques to tailor solutions that are not only practical but create lasting change. As a psychotherapist, Carolyn works with individuals, couples, and families.
(773) 537-4118 View (773) 537-4118
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.