Personality Disorders Therapists in Midtown East, New York, NY

Photo of Mona Lee Yousef, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Midtown East, New York, NY
Mona Lee Yousef
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW NY, LCSW NJ, CASAC, CCDC, MAC
Verified Verified
Midtown East, New York, NY 10017
I am a dedicated, perceptive and highly competent clinician with 32 years experience. Certified in Psychoanalysis and Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy, I also hold multiple certifications in addictions treatment and have taught in the areas of addiction, HIV/AIDS and personality disorders. I have worked intensively and extensively with those struggling with (and/or recovering from) all forms of addictive disorders: alcohol/drugs, sexual compulsion, eating disorders, gambling. I am also strongly experienced in -- and sensitive to -- issues of grief, trauma, identity, illness as well as interpersonal, attachment and sexual difficulties.
I am a dedicated, perceptive and highly competent clinician with 32 years experience. Certified in Psychoanalysis and Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy, I also hold multiple certifications in addictions treatment and have taught in the areas of addiction, HIV/AIDS and personality disorders. I have worked intensively and extensively with those struggling with (and/or recovering from) all forms of addictive disorders: alcohol/drugs, sexual compulsion, eating disorders, gambling. I am also strongly experienced in -- and sensitive to -- issues of grief, trauma, identity, illness as well as interpersonal, attachment and sexual difficulties.
(718) 748-7484 View (718) 748-7484
Photo of Lauren Laguna, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Midtown East, New York, NY
Lauren Laguna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BFA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midtown East, New York, NY 10017  (Online Only)
Authentic and empathetic therapist, here to help you feel empowered, safe, worthy, and free to live your life. I'm passionate about empowering my clients in achieving their goals, whatever that may look like. I have worked with a wide range of clients. Some looking to process and heal trauma; learn how to manage anxiety, stress, and overwhelming emotions; improve relationships; improve self-esteem, build self-confidence, learn self-compassion; build insight into unhelpful behaviors. I work with adults, teens, and children, struggling with trauma, anxiety, panic attacks, personality disorders, depression, and body image issues.
Authentic and empathetic therapist, here to help you feel empowered, safe, worthy, and free to live your life. I'm passionate about empowering my clients in achieving their goals, whatever that may look like. I have worked with a wide range of clients. Some looking to process and heal trauma; learn how to manage anxiety, stress, and overwhelming emotions; improve relationships; improve self-esteem, build self-confidence, learn self-compassion; build insight into unhelpful behaviors. I work with adults, teens, and children, struggling with trauma, anxiety, panic attacks, personality disorders, depression, and body image issues.
(347) 754-3702 View (347) 754-3702
Photo of Jessica Giordano, Pre-Licensed Professional in Midtown East, New York, NY
Jessica Giordano
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midtown East, New York, NY 10022
Do you struggle to shift out of patterns that you are stuck in? Are you a sensitive person, seeking a warm empathetic approach? I approach clients from a trauma informed lens, creating a safe space together and working to understand the narrative of your life. I bring in my experience with EMDR therapy among other modalities to help facilitate healing and growth. Helping clients who struggle with trauma related difficulties, personality disorders, life transitions and more
Do you struggle to shift out of patterns that you are stuck in? Are you a sensitive person, seeking a warm empathetic approach? I approach clients from a trauma informed lens, creating a safe space together and working to understand the narrative of your life. I bring in my experience with EMDR therapy among other modalities to help facilitate healing and growth. Helping clients who struggle with trauma related difficulties, personality disorders, life transitions and more
(929) 494-1671 View (929) 494-1671
Photo of Jessica Diller Kovler, Psychologist in Midtown East, New York, NY
Jessica Diller Kovler
Psychologist, PhD, AM, MA
Verified Verified
Midtown East, New York, NY 10022
I like to describe coaching and therapy a bit like "The Wizard of Oz." You have it in you; I am here to help you learn to "click your heels" using evidence-based, targeted approaches to help you achieve your potential. A scholar-practitioner, I specialize in the implementation of short-term, evidence-based cognitive approaches (CBT/DBT) to mental health care, with expertise in medical-health psychology, weight management/bariatrics, depression, anxiety, and personality disorders. I also offer neuropsychological and forensic assessment services.
I like to describe coaching and therapy a bit like "The Wizard of Oz." You have it in you; I am here to help you learn to "click your heels" using evidence-based, targeted approaches to help you achieve your potential. A scholar-practitioner, I specialize in the implementation of short-term, evidence-based cognitive approaches (CBT/DBT) to mental health care, with expertise in medical-health psychology, weight management/bariatrics, depression, anxiety, and personality disorders. I also offer neuropsychological and forensic assessment services.
(646) 916-3915 View (646) 916-3915
Photo of Karen Chuzmir, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Midtown East, New York, NY
Karen Chuzmir
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CASAC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Midtown East, New York, NY 10022  (Online Only)
I work with adults, couples and families to address life challenges related to mood & personality disorders, addiction & dependency-based issues, cultivating ones' self-worth, building positive relationships and enhancing communication skills.
Do you find yourself feeling stuck or with the sense that you are just going through the motions? I can help guide you to participate more fully in life and reach your maximum potential. We will work collaboratively to increase self-awareness, identify recurring patterns, and minimize maladaptive behaviors through the use of coping skills and resources at hand. With insight, confidence and tools in hand, you will be better equipped to effectively navigate through various road bumps in life and stop getting in your own way. I'm very collaborative, directive and strengths-based in my work with clients.
I work with adults, couples and families to address life challenges related to mood & personality disorders, addiction & dependency-based issues, cultivating ones' self-worth, building positive relationships and enhancing communication skills.
Do you find yourself feeling stuck or with the sense that you are just going through the motions? I can help guide you to participate more fully in life and reach your maximum potential. We will work collaboratively to increase self-awareness, identify recurring patterns, and minimize maladaptive behaviors through the use of coping skills and resources at hand. With insight, confidence and tools in hand, you will be better equipped to effectively navigate through various road bumps in life and stop getting in your own way. I'm very collaborative, directive and strengths-based in my work with clients.
(646) 760-5132 View (646) 760-5132
Photo of Elizabeth Mulhare, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Midtown East, New York, NY
Elizabeth Mulhare
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Midtown East, New York, NY 10022  (Online Only)
I am a psychotherapist in New York City with over ten years experience working in both private practice and at New York Presbyterian Hospital, treating adults with mood, anxiety, and personality disorders. I use evidence based therapies to help clients reach their goals and reduce their suffering. Clients learn to change maladaptive, self defeating patterns of thinking and behaving.
I am a psychotherapist in New York City with over ten years experience working in both private practice and at New York Presbyterian Hospital, treating adults with mood, anxiety, and personality disorders. I use evidence based therapies to help clients reach their goals and reduce their suffering. Clients learn to change maladaptive, self defeating patterns of thinking and behaving.
(718) 806-9376 View (718) 806-9376
Photo of Jesyca Vilensky, PsyD PLLC, Psychologist in Midtown East, New York, NY
Jesyca Vilensky, PsyD PLLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Midtown East, New York, NY 10022
Treatment for trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, OCD, fears/phobias, personality disorders, addictions, eating disorders, and more.
People experience different challenges in their lives that are sometimes difficult to work through alone. But together we can make sense of it, and achieve a healthier, happier life. By providing a safe and empathic space, we can explore those challenges. My approach to each and every session is to be with you, through truly listening, providing a judgment-free environment, respectful challenge, and mutual participation throughout the therapeutic process. As a team, you and I will process the emotional, cognitive, physical, familial, and spiritual factors impacting your life, and preventing you from achieving your goals.
Treatment for trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, OCD, fears/phobias, personality disorders, addictions, eating disorders, and more.
People experience different challenges in their lives that are sometimes difficult to work through alone. But together we can make sense of it, and achieve a healthier, happier life. By providing a safe and empathic space, we can explore those challenges. My approach to each and every session is to be with you, through truly listening, providing a judgment-free environment, respectful challenge, and mutual participation throughout the therapeutic process. As a team, you and I will process the emotional, cognitive, physical, familial, and spiritual factors impacting your life, and preventing you from achieving your goals.
(845) 521-7629 View (845) 521-7629
Photo of Christiana Roberts in Midtown East, New York, NY
Christiana Roberts
MHC-LP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Midtown East, New York, NY 10017  (Online Only)
My areas of interest include supporting children, adolescents and adults with depression, anxiety, panic attacks, trauma, OCD, personality disorders, eating disorders, ADHD, gender and identity concerns, and relationship stressors.
I am passionate about creating a warm, safe, and inclusive atmosphere for all persons. I empower individuals to feel seen and freely express themselves throughout our work together. In my clinical work, I collaborate with clients to identify their personal goals and strengths, deepen insight, and navigate various life experiences. With all clients, I aim to cultivate acceptance and self-compassion. My hope is for all clients, including those who have endured trauma, to feel safe in their body and supported in their experience. I am patient, humble, and continuously inspired by the opportunity to sit with others on their journey.
My areas of interest include supporting children, adolescents and adults with depression, anxiety, panic attacks, trauma, OCD, personality disorders, eating disorders, ADHD, gender and identity concerns, and relationship stressors.
I am passionate about creating a warm, safe, and inclusive atmosphere for all persons. I empower individuals to feel seen and freely express themselves throughout our work together. In my clinical work, I collaborate with clients to identify their personal goals and strengths, deepen insight, and navigate various life experiences. With all clients, I aim to cultivate acceptance and self-compassion. My hope is for all clients, including those who have endured trauma, to feel safe in their body and supported in their experience. I am patient, humble, and continuously inspired by the opportunity to sit with others on their journey.
(646) 450-3064 View (646) 450-3064
Photo of Lauren Mackie, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Midtown East, New York, NY
Lauren Mackie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Midtown East, New York, NY 10166
I fundamentally believe everyone, given the right tools, has the ability to thrive and fully experience life. Using DBT, I will immediately provide you with transformative skills to navigate stressful life circumstances, adapt to and stabilize dysregulated emotions, and that will encourage you to create the changes you envision. DBT is a short-term therapy, with long-term benefits. My focus is working with adolescents and adults, both individually and in groups, with mood disorders, anxiety/panic disorders, depression, suicidal thoughts or suicide attempts, schizophrenia, personality disorders, and in need of crisis intervention.
I fundamentally believe everyone, given the right tools, has the ability to thrive and fully experience life. Using DBT, I will immediately provide you with transformative skills to navigate stressful life circumstances, adapt to and stabilize dysregulated emotions, and that will encourage you to create the changes you envision. DBT is a short-term therapy, with long-term benefits. My focus is working with adolescents and adults, both individually and in groups, with mood disorders, anxiety/panic disorders, depression, suicidal thoughts or suicide attempts, schizophrenia, personality disorders, and in need of crisis intervention.
(929) 207-6956 View (929) 207-6956
Photo of Vanessa Reiser Narcissism Expert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Midtown East, New York, NY
Vanessa Reiser Narcissism Expert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Midtown East, New York, NY 10177
Vanessa is a solution-focused psychotherapist licensed in NY, NJ, MA and FL specializing in Narcissistic Abuse and Cult Abuse, whose mission is to help individuals uncover their true potential and move forward toward all of their goals. Her team specializes in working with individuals and couples focusing on the treatment of trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief/loss, eating disorders, marriage or interpersonal relationship problems, alcohol or drug abuse, low self-esteem, or anyone in need of developing new ways to cope with life’s every day challenges. Go to tellatherapist.net or Insta: vanessareiserlcsw TikTok:vanessareiser
Vanessa is a solution-focused psychotherapist licensed in NY, NJ, MA and FL specializing in Narcissistic Abuse and Cult Abuse, whose mission is to help individuals uncover their true potential and move forward toward all of their goals. Her team specializes in working with individuals and couples focusing on the treatment of trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief/loss, eating disorders, marriage or interpersonal relationship problems, alcohol or drug abuse, low self-esteem, or anyone in need of developing new ways to cope with life’s every day challenges. Go to tellatherapist.net or Insta: vanessareiserlcsw TikTok:vanessareiser
(732) 307-9559 View (732) 307-9559
Photo of Bruce Berman, Psychologist in Midtown East, New York, NY
Bruce Berman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Midtown East, New York, NY 10017  (Online Only)
I have a general practice and have experience and interest in treating a variety of issues including relationship problems, sexual difficulties, symptoms of anxiety and depression, problems with occupational performance, work-related stress, and career advancement, gay and lesbian issues, helping individuals maintain recovery from substance abuse, personality disorders, and anger management.
I have a general practice and have experience and interest in treating a variety of issues including relationship problems, sexual difficulties, symptoms of anxiety and depression, problems with occupational performance, work-related stress, and career advancement, gay and lesbian issues, helping individuals maintain recovery from substance abuse, personality disorders, and anger management.
(646) 600-9249 View (646) 600-9249
Photo of Shira Dinar Alani, Psychologist in Midtown East, New York, NY
Shira Dinar Alani
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Midtown East, New York, NY 10017  (Online Only)
As a cognitive-behavioral practitioner, I utilize a goal oriented, symptom-focused approach while understanding the importance of a warm, trusting relationship with one's therapist. I specialize in the treatment of adults with various anxiety, depressive, and personality disorders including OCD, social anxiety, panic, generalized anxiety disorder, perfectionism, phobias, depression, and interpersonal difficulties. My patients often tell me that I have allowed them to feel comfortable due to my warm and compassionate demeanor while still challenging and motivating them therapeutically. I believe that developing this trust with a therapist is imperative for successful treatment.
As a cognitive-behavioral practitioner, I utilize a goal oriented, symptom-focused approach while understanding the importance of a warm, trusting relationship with one's therapist. I specialize in the treatment of adults with various anxiety, depressive, and personality disorders including OCD, social anxiety, panic, generalized anxiety disorder, perfectionism, phobias, depression, and interpersonal difficulties. My patients often tell me that I have allowed them to feel comfortable due to my warm and compassionate demeanor while still challenging and motivating them therapeutically. I believe that developing this trust with a therapist is imperative for successful treatment.
(646) 480-7235 View (646) 480-7235
Photo of Kenneth Starger LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Midtown East, New York, NY
Kenneth Starger LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CASAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midtown East, New York, NY 10022
I specialize in working with individuals who are feeling depressed, anxious or have been diagnosed with Bi Polar and/or Borderline Personality disorders.
I use Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Anger Management interventions to help you improve your daily functioning. You will learn to tolerate ambiguity and ambivalence, make meaning from experience, and expand your understanding of self. If you are depressed, anxious or have issues with anger, I can help you.
I specialize in working with individuals who are feeling depressed, anxious or have been diagnosed with Bi Polar and/or Borderline Personality disorders.
I use Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Anger Management interventions to help you improve your daily functioning. You will learn to tolerate ambiguity and ambivalence, make meaning from experience, and expand your understanding of self. If you are depressed, anxious or have issues with anger, I can help you.
(646) 490-0382 View (646) 490-0382
Photo of Eleni Toumarides, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Midtown East, New York, NY
Eleni Toumarides
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Midtown East, New York, NY 10017
I help patients struggling with death anxiety, narcissistic abuse, and relationship issues, seeking freedom from toxic dynamics, a robust sense of self, and healthy relationships built on mutual respect. They desire empowerment, self-worth, and confidence.
I help patients struggling with death anxiety, narcissistic abuse, and relationship issues, seeking freedom from toxic dynamics, a robust sense of self, and healthy relationships built on mutual respect. They desire empowerment, self-worth, and confidence.
(646) 553-6346 View (646) 553-6346
Photo of Counseling For You NYC, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Midtown East, New York, NY
Counseling For You NYC
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, CAMSll, TS, DVS, CASAC
Verified Verified
Midtown East, New York, NY 10017
The therapists in our practice specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, anger management, domestic violence, couples, adolescents, and personality disorders.
Counseling For You NYC is a group of therapists that have a passion for helping others. They are devoted to helping people through difficulties they are experiencing and are nonjudgemental, supportive and knowledgeable about the issues people face in the world today. Whether you are dealing with trauma, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, or any other issues that cause stress or get in the way of leading a healthy and happy life, there is someone here to help you.
The therapists in our practice specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, anger management, domestic violence, couples, adolescents, and personality disorders.
Counseling For You NYC is a group of therapists that have a passion for helping others. They are devoted to helping people through difficulties they are experiencing and are nonjudgemental, supportive and knowledgeable about the issues people face in the world today. Whether you are dealing with trauma, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, or any other issues that cause stress or get in the way of leading a healthy and happy life, there is someone here to help you.
(929) 547-9874 View (929) 547-9874
Photo of Antoinette Bonafede, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Midtown East, New York, NY
Antoinette Bonafede
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, DBT, REBT, CBT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Midtown East, New York, NY 10022
I specialize in personality disorders, depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, & ADHD; I offer a humanistic perspective as we sort through your feelings and learn to navigate them more effectively.
Antoinette Bonafede, LMSW, DBT, CBT, REBT is an experienced clinician that treats people of all ages. A client is usually struggling but feels connected enough with me as their therapist to speak openly and freely about their experience. They can accept feedback with an understanding that we are both on the same team. When we touch on something out of their comfort zone, I hope they recognize they are safe and can stay engaged in the process. Together, we push past the barriers preventing them from feeling better, and they gain a better understanding of themselves to meet their potential.
I specialize in personality disorders, depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, & ADHD; I offer a humanistic perspective as we sort through your feelings and learn to navigate them more effectively.
Antoinette Bonafede, LMSW, DBT, CBT, REBT is an experienced clinician that treats people of all ages. A client is usually struggling but feels connected enough with me as their therapist to speak openly and freely about their experience. They can accept feedback with an understanding that we are both on the same team. When we touch on something out of their comfort zone, I hope they recognize they are safe and can stay engaged in the process. Together, we push past the barriers preventing them from feeling better, and they gain a better understanding of themselves to meet their potential.
(646) 791-4260 View (646) 791-4260
Photo of Antoinette Bonafede, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Midtown East, New York, NY
Antoinette Bonafede
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CBT, DBT, REBT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Midtown East, New York, NY 10022
I specialize in personality disorders, anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, & ADHD; I offer a humanistic perspective as we sort through your feelings and learn to navigate them more effectively.
Antoinette Bonafede, LMSW, DBT, CBT, REBT is an experienced clinician that treats people of all ages. A client usually is struggling but feels connected enough with me as their therapist to speak openly and freely about their experience. They can accept feedback with an understanding that we are both on the same team. When we touch on something out of their comfort zone, I hope they recognize they are safe and can stay engaged in the process. Together, we push past the barriers preventing them from feeling better, and they gain a better understanding of themselves to meet their potential.
I specialize in personality disorders, anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, & ADHD; I offer a humanistic perspective as we sort through your feelings and learn to navigate them more effectively.
Antoinette Bonafede, LMSW, DBT, CBT, REBT is an experienced clinician that treats people of all ages. A client usually is struggling but feels connected enough with me as their therapist to speak openly and freely about their experience. They can accept feedback with an understanding that we are both on the same team. When we touch on something out of their comfort zone, I hope they recognize they are safe and can stay engaged in the process. Together, we push past the barriers preventing them from feeling better, and they gain a better understanding of themselves to meet their potential.
(917) 746-3628 View (917) 746-3628
Photo of Alana Barlia, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Midtown East, New York, NY
Alana Barlia
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, MA, EdM
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Midtown East, New York, NY 10017
This includes expertise in helping clients heal from codependency & narcissistic relationships.
Hi! I am an NYC-based therapist providing warm, inviting, and effective therapy for adults and couples. My clients find solace and relief through our work together by learning deeply about themselves, addressing the root cause of their distress, and moving through their difficult emotions. I believe that if you invest in yourself & your relationships today - you have the capacity to change your entire life. Remember, you deserve to live a life that brings you joy, satisfaction, and a sense of purpose.
This includes expertise in helping clients heal from codependency & narcissistic relationships.
Hi! I am an NYC-based therapist providing warm, inviting, and effective therapy for adults and couples. My clients find solace and relief through our work together by learning deeply about themselves, addressing the root cause of their distress, and moving through their difficult emotions. I believe that if you invest in yourself & your relationships today - you have the capacity to change your entire life. Remember, you deserve to live a life that brings you joy, satisfaction, and a sense of purpose.
(914) 326-2804 View (914) 326-2804
Photo of Kyle William McEvoy, Mental Health Counselor in Midtown East, New York, NY
Kyle William McEvoy
Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC, CCMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Midtown East, New York, NY 10001
I specialize in working with those with emerging and diagnosed personality disorders.
Kyle is the Founder and President of Collaborative, a multidisciplinary clinical community focused on establishing effective, evidence-based treatment founded on an adaptive mentalization-based treatment model. He holds advanced training in mentalization-based and adaptive mentalization-based integrative treatment through the Anna Freud Centre for Children and Families. He specializes in complex attachment and identity-related disorders such as borderline, avoidant, antisocial, dependent, and obsessive-compulsive personalities, along with gender-diverse individuals.
I specialize in working with those with emerging and diagnosed personality disorders.
Kyle is the Founder and President of Collaborative, a multidisciplinary clinical community focused on establishing effective, evidence-based treatment founded on an adaptive mentalization-based treatment model. He holds advanced training in mentalization-based and adaptive mentalization-based integrative treatment through the Anna Freud Centre for Children and Families. He specializes in complex attachment and identity-related disorders such as borderline, avoidant, antisocial, dependent, and obsessive-compulsive personalities, along with gender-diverse individuals.
(929) 226-6119 View (929) 226-6119
Photo of Melita T. Stancil, Psychologist in Midtown East, New York, NY
Melita T. Stancil
Psychologist, PhD, LPsych
Verified Verified
Midtown East, New York, NY 10022
Greetings! I am Dr. Melita T. Stancil, a Licensed Clinical Psychologist. I am passionate about providing practical and effective treatment that serves the individual as a whole person. My treatment for individuals and families is fueled by results from my own experience, scientific evidence and incorporating the patient’s values. In essence, each patient is cared for as a human being with unique needs. I received a Master of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical-Community Psychology at the University of South Carolina.
Greetings! I am Dr. Melita T. Stancil, a Licensed Clinical Psychologist. I am passionate about providing practical and effective treatment that serves the individual as a whole person. My treatment for individuals and families is fueled by results from my own experience, scientific evidence and incorporating the patient’s values. In essence, each patient is cared for as a human being with unique needs. I received a Master of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical-Community Psychology at the University of South Carolina.
(917) 983-6265 View (917) 983-6265

See more therapy options for Midtown East, New York

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.