Photo of Sara Johnson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Pittsburgh, PA
Sara Johnson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPCA
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
If you'd like to get free from relational trauma, I would love to help you. I specialize in anxiety, depression, emotional and narcissistic abuse, Trauma/PTSD, ACA / ACoA recovery for adult children of alcoholics and family dysfunction, Personality Disorders, and ADHD. I've worked in substance abuse recovery for 8 years and led a group for adults with ADHD with the national organization CHADD for 3 years. I work with abuse survivors and I lead an ongoing group for recovery from gaslighting, narcissistic and emotional abuse, betrayal trauma, and intimate partner violence. If you're going through hell, keep going.
If you'd like to get free from relational trauma, I would love to help you. I specialize in anxiety, depression, emotional and narcissistic abuse, Trauma/PTSD, ACA / ACoA recovery for adult children of alcoholics and family dysfunction, Personality Disorders, and ADHD. I've worked in substance abuse recovery for 8 years and led a group for adults with ADHD with the national organization CHADD for 3 years. I work with abuse survivors and I lead an ongoing group for recovery from gaslighting, narcissistic and emotional abuse, betrayal trauma, and intimate partner violence. If you're going through hell, keep going.
(215) 910-4075 View (215) 910-4075
Photo of Anita Barnhart, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Anita Barnhart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
My professional experience includes work with addiction, anxiety, depression, difficult life/work transitions, grief/loss, personality disorders, relationship issues, and trauma.
Life can present us with challenging and stressful situations. And yet, "We are made to persist. That is how we find out who we are"-Tobias Wolff. This philosophy provides the reassurance that each person has the power and potential to surpass many difficult situations. In therapeutic practice, I work with clients to identify and cultivate their innate strengths and resources, inspiring positive change and a more meaningful, rewarding life.
My professional experience includes work with addiction, anxiety, depression, difficult life/work transitions, grief/loss, personality disorders, relationship issues, and trauma.
Life can present us with challenging and stressful situations. And yet, "We are made to persist. That is how we find out who we are"-Tobias Wolff. This philosophy provides the reassurance that each person has the power and potential to surpass many difficult situations. In therapeutic practice, I work with clients to identify and cultivate their innate strengths and resources, inspiring positive change and a more meaningful, rewarding life.
(878) 205-8297 View (878) 205-8297
Photo of Melody Dascanio, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Melody Dascanio
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, C-PD, CCTP-II, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15203  (Online Only)
Will I ever be good enough?....Maybe I AM the crazy one?... Have you had these thoughts? Are you anxious, depressed, a chronic people pleaser? Have your "loved ones" blamed you for "everything that is wrong"? Do you hate the way they act around you, but then a few memories of when they were nice make you feel guilty for having those thoughts (cognitive dissonance)? This is all normal if you have experienced narcissistic abuse or emotionally immature parents. This is where I come in. Healing is a real possibility. You deserve it and I'm dedicated to helping you move from surviving to thriving!
Will I ever be good enough?....Maybe I AM the crazy one?... Have you had these thoughts? Are you anxious, depressed, a chronic people pleaser? Have your "loved ones" blamed you for "everything that is wrong"? Do you hate the way they act around you, but then a few memories of when they were nice make you feel guilty for having those thoughts (cognitive dissonance)? This is all normal if you have experienced narcissistic abuse or emotionally immature parents. This is where I come in. Healing is a real possibility. You deserve it and I'm dedicated to helping you move from surviving to thriving!
(484) 380-9979 View (484) 380-9979
Photo of Mark Shoaf, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Mark Shoaf
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CCSIM
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15238
The funny things about life's hurts, they generally do not just get better on their own. Running from a problem is a race we will never win. My goal is to create a warm safe and relaxed place for you to explore, to discuss, to learn and maybe laugh. The outcome is for you to feel empowered in your life and to have HOPE. Changing or healing often require learning new skills so my approach is as much about coaching as it is about counseling. My primary counseling modes are Cognitive Dissonance and Reframing and REBT (Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy). Together we create the tools for HOPE that are custom made for you.
The funny things about life's hurts, they generally do not just get better on their own. Running from a problem is a race we will never win. My goal is to create a warm safe and relaxed place for you to explore, to discuss, to learn and maybe laugh. The outcome is for you to feel empowered in your life and to have HOPE. Changing or healing often require learning new skills so my approach is as much about coaching as it is about counseling. My primary counseling modes are Cognitive Dissonance and Reframing and REBT (Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy). Together we create the tools for HOPE that are custom made for you.
(412) 407-4070 View (412) 407-4070
Photo of Building Happiness Counseling Services, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Building Happiness Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
Everyone has their capacity for happiness and I want to help you find it. Happiness comes from creating connection to ourselves, our environments, our purpose, and others. I help adults looking for assistance in improving their lives and breaking through old patterns of behaviors. I help those looking for direction, purpose, and answers to questions about their experiences. People ask themselves why they keep having the same things happen over and over in their life, I can help figure out those patterns and help to eliminate them so that you can move forward.
Everyone has their capacity for happiness and I want to help you find it. Happiness comes from creating connection to ourselves, our environments, our purpose, and others. I help adults looking for assistance in improving their lives and breaking through old patterns of behaviors. I help those looking for direction, purpose, and answers to questions about their experiences. People ask themselves why they keep having the same things happen over and over in their life, I can help figure out those patterns and help to eliminate them so that you can move forward.
(878) 787-6980 View (878) 787-6980
Photo of April Faust, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
April Faust
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15220
As a therapist in private mental health practice, I strive to provide support and guidance to a diverse range of individuals seeking help and healing. My ideal client seeks a safe and nonjudgmental space to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. They want to develop a deeper understanding of themselves, gain insight into their patterns and behaviors, and learn effective coping strategies. They value personal growth and are committed to investing time and effort into their therapeutic journey. Their needs revolve around finding a compassionate therapist who can provide empathy, active listening, and validation.
As a therapist in private mental health practice, I strive to provide support and guidance to a diverse range of individuals seeking help and healing. My ideal client seeks a safe and nonjudgmental space to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. They want to develop a deeper understanding of themselves, gain insight into their patterns and behaviors, and learn effective coping strategies. They value personal growth and are committed to investing time and effort into their therapeutic journey. Their needs revolve around finding a compassionate therapist who can provide empathy, active listening, and validation.
(610) 467-9963 View (610) 467-9963
Photo of Brittany M. Kiefer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Brittany M. Kiefer
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
At times we may struggle with intense and confusing emotions that interfere with reaching our daily goals and aspirations. By working collaboratively within in a calm, supportive and non-judgmental atmosphere, we can begin to become more curious about desired changes. Therapy can serve as a guide to help you gain a better understanding of yourself, how you relate and navigate the interpersonal relationships in your life, and within your environment. I also believe it is imperative to view therapy through the lens of trauma-informed care, while respecting each individual's background, where trauma's may have left unspoken words.
At times we may struggle with intense and confusing emotions that interfere with reaching our daily goals and aspirations. By working collaboratively within in a calm, supportive and non-judgmental atmosphere, we can begin to become more curious about desired changes. Therapy can serve as a guide to help you gain a better understanding of yourself, how you relate and navigate the interpersonal relationships in your life, and within your environment. I also believe it is imperative to view therapy through the lens of trauma-informed care, while respecting each individual's background, where trauma's may have left unspoken words.
(412) 207-3438 View (412) 207-3438
Photo of Kyle Hulsebus, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Kyle Hulsebus
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15217  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with teens and adults, especially those struggling to navigate some of the tougher moments of life. I have a lot of experience working with folks on emotional management - especially anger and anxiety - as well as exploring relationships and their impact on a person's life. I seek to help people find the best way forward and to overcome the stumbling blocks on their way. As a therapist, I also try to help challenge people's thoughts and help them gain new perspectives on the issues they're facing.
I enjoy working with teens and adults, especially those struggling to navigate some of the tougher moments of life. I have a lot of experience working with folks on emotional management - especially anger and anxiety - as well as exploring relationships and their impact on a person's life. I seek to help people find the best way forward and to overcome the stumbling blocks on their way. As a therapist, I also try to help challenge people's thoughts and help them gain new perspectives on the issues they're facing.
(878) 216-7524 View (878) 216-7524
Photo of Ben Hearn in Pittsburgh, PA
Ben Hearn
PhD, NCC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15209
I specialize in working with members of the LGBTQ+ community and their families on a range of issues including trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, spiritual development, identity exploration, and psychedelic integration. I work with clients such as yourself deep-seated respect and acknowledgment of your humanity and right to be treated with dignity, care, and respect. I assist clients develop their curiosity and courage for introspection to work through the "hard stuff". Overall, I hope to help my clients become more open and whole in their relationships with themselves, others, and the world around them.
I specialize in working with members of the LGBTQ+ community and their families on a range of issues including trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, spiritual development, identity exploration, and psychedelic integration. I work with clients such as yourself deep-seated respect and acknowledgment of your humanity and right to be treated with dignity, care, and respect. I assist clients develop their curiosity and courage for introspection to work through the "hard stuff". Overall, I hope to help my clients become more open and whole in their relationships with themselves, others, and the world around them.
(412) 419-2772 View (412) 419-2772
Photo of Dr. Yisroel (Jonathan) King, Pre-Licensed Professional in Pittsburgh, PA
Dr. Yisroel (Jonathan) King
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Yisroel is a clinician at Cardigan Psychological, LLC. He has had extensive training in providing child and adolescent individual therapy, structural family therapy, and school and home-based interventions. His experience includes working in therapeutic and educational settings with children and adolescents struggling with a variety of difficulties including behavioral disorders, depression, trauma, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, anxiety, and many other mental health concerns.
Yisroel is a clinician at Cardigan Psychological, LLC. He has had extensive training in providing child and adolescent individual therapy, structural family therapy, and school and home-based interventions. His experience includes working in therapeutic and educational settings with children and adolescents struggling with a variety of difficulties including behavioral disorders, depression, trauma, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, anxiety, and many other mental health concerns.
(724) 573-3647 View (724) 573-3647
Photo of Sam Wilshire, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Sam Wilshire
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15203  (Online Only)
Life is a winding path- I know how difficult it can often be adjusting to challenges in the moment and over time. I have been helping clients for several years confront the tasks of personal integration and expansion in response to life's unhelpful habits, patterns and circumstances. My approach and style are effective at helping heal dysregulation in all forms, regardless of whether they stem from health conditions, interpersonal disruptions, or other historical factors. Let us work together on your terms to restore vitality and depth in your world. Relief and wisdom lie closely within our grasp!
Life is a winding path- I know how difficult it can often be adjusting to challenges in the moment and over time. I have been helping clients for several years confront the tasks of personal integration and expansion in response to life's unhelpful habits, patterns and circumstances. My approach and style are effective at helping heal dysregulation in all forms, regardless of whether they stem from health conditions, interpersonal disruptions, or other historical factors. Let us work together on your terms to restore vitality and depth in your world. Relief and wisdom lie closely within our grasp!
(412) 313-5149 View (412) 313-5149
Photo of Leah Herman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Leah Herman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15241
There are many reasons clients decide to work with a therapist. Developing healthy life habits, working on overcoming challenges, exploring patterns and behaviors, expanding communication skills are some preferred goals. An ideal client has both curiosity and the courage to gain perspective and insight into how they relate to themselves and others. I work with children, teens, and adults and welcome the opportunity to explore life’s challenges alongside you. I recognize the courage it takes to explore history and patterns, and it is my goal to create a space of hope and connection within the therapeutic relationship.
There are many reasons clients decide to work with a therapist. Developing healthy life habits, working on overcoming challenges, exploring patterns and behaviors, expanding communication skills are some preferred goals. An ideal client has both curiosity and the courage to gain perspective and insight into how they relate to themselves and others. I work with children, teens, and adults and welcome the opportunity to explore life’s challenges alongside you. I recognize the courage it takes to explore history and patterns, and it is my goal to create a space of hope and connection within the therapeutic relationship.
(412) 906-4526 View (412) 906-4526
Photo of Amber Moskowitz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Amber Moskowitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15221
I opened a mental health practice because after a decade working in traditional counseling settings, I am most drawn to supporting individuals interested in empathically instilling acceptance for themselves and the way they have learned to survive within their environment. I work best with teens and young adults who tend to over-think and want to lean to befriend their feelings. If you find yourself struggling with transitions, managing emotions or trusting yourself and others, I would be honored to support you in discovering ways to reduce tension and increase understanding around what your “symptoms” are trying to tell you.
I opened a mental health practice because after a decade working in traditional counseling settings, I am most drawn to supporting individuals interested in empathically instilling acceptance for themselves and the way they have learned to survive within their environment. I work best with teens and young adults who tend to over-think and want to lean to befriend their feelings. If you find yourself struggling with transitions, managing emotions or trusting yourself and others, I would be honored to support you in discovering ways to reduce tension and increase understanding around what your “symptoms” are trying to tell you.
(412) 435-1225 View (412) 435-1225
Photo of Kayla Harris, Pre-Licensed Professional in Pittsburgh, PA
Kayla Harris
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15206  (Online Only)
Health is Wealth! Mental clarity and peace are among the greatest values and gifts we can offer ourselves. We can explore areas in your life where you feel like you can grow in, while safely navigating through the traumatic experiences and challenges that have caused cracks in your foundation. This is your time to reclaim your narrative and write the story you want for yourself! I believe in the resilience that exists within all of us and the healing power of the therapeutic relationship. I am dedicated to understanding my clients' unique and multi-faceted identities and experiences as well as cultivating their strengths.
Health is Wealth! Mental clarity and peace are among the greatest values and gifts we can offer ourselves. We can explore areas in your life where you feel like you can grow in, while safely navigating through the traumatic experiences and challenges that have caused cracks in your foundation. This is your time to reclaim your narrative and write the story you want for yourself! I believe in the resilience that exists within all of us and the healing power of the therapeutic relationship. I am dedicated to understanding my clients' unique and multi-faceted identities and experiences as well as cultivating their strengths.
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Photo of Heather Martin LCSW / Alliance Therapy Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Heather Martin LCSW / Alliance Therapy Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Therapists at Alliance Therapy Center have immediate openings for clients, now including children ages 3 and up! Click our website link to request an appointment. We look forward to working with you!
Therapists at Alliance Therapy Center have immediate openings for clients, now including children ages 3 and up! Click our website link to request an appointment. We look forward to working with you!
(412) 212-8805 View (412) 212-8805
Photo of Sarah Paolino, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Sarah Paolino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
I believe that therapy is a co-created process meant to bring awareness within ourselves and our relationships to create meaningful change. I believe that everyone has the natural capacity to have a fulfilling and desired quality of life. Healing comes into play to meet life’s obstacles so that growth and integration can happen. I look at relative trauma as well as the impact of larger systems. I use mind-body awareness practices to help bring alignment within authentic self. I work to bring non-judgment and trust as transformation occurs. I look to help you explore within yourself, in relationships, families, and society.
I believe that therapy is a co-created process meant to bring awareness within ourselves and our relationships to create meaningful change. I believe that everyone has the natural capacity to have a fulfilling and desired quality of life. Healing comes into play to meet life’s obstacles so that growth and integration can happen. I look at relative trauma as well as the impact of larger systems. I use mind-body awareness practices to help bring alignment within authentic self. I work to bring non-judgment and trust as transformation occurs. I look to help you explore within yourself, in relationships, families, and society.
(412) 903-9706 View (412) 903-9706
Photo of Kevin Debow, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pittsburgh, PA
Kevin Debow
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
A lot of people see therapy as a one-sided conversation with little opportunity for interaction or getting to experience each other as real people. I owe it to you to be as real as possible. I want to help you achieve whatever solutions and life changes you are looking for while enjoying the process as much as possible and experiencing yourself in new ways. I do not believe therapy has to always be a painful experience. I understand that making that call to a therapist can be intimidating, but I hope you will take a moment to call and see how I can help.
A lot of people see therapy as a one-sided conversation with little opportunity for interaction or getting to experience each other as real people. I owe it to you to be as real as possible. I want to help you achieve whatever solutions and life changes you are looking for while enjoying the process as much as possible and experiencing yourself in new ways. I do not believe therapy has to always be a painful experience. I understand that making that call to a therapist can be intimidating, but I hope you will take a moment to call and see how I can help.
(412) 866-1015 View (412) 866-1015
Photo of Dr. Samantha Marino, Psychologist in Pittsburgh, PA
Dr. Samantha Marino
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
I have been most helpful with clients who have clear goals or specific issues they want to address. I can work with you in a brief, specific and time-limited ways to help faciliate problem-solving and behavioral changes as needed. I can also work with you long-term to address chronic or longer standing issues of past trauma, family conflict, or issues with self and identity. Most importantly, I work collaboratively to help you meet your own needs by matching the treatment modality and plan with your stated needs and learning/attachment style. I am direct and honest, but always with permission and gentleness. I respect and value all.
I have been most helpful with clients who have clear goals or specific issues they want to address. I can work with you in a brief, specific and time-limited ways to help faciliate problem-solving and behavioral changes as needed. I can also work with you long-term to address chronic or longer standing issues of past trauma, family conflict, or issues with self and identity. Most importantly, I work collaboratively to help you meet your own needs by matching the treatment modality and plan with your stated needs and learning/attachment style. I am direct and honest, but always with permission and gentleness. I respect and value all.
(412) 899-2191 View (412) 899-2191
Photo of Ann Adams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pittsburgh, PA
Ann Adams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MPH, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
As a psychodynamic, trauma-focused therapist, I can help you process past experiences in a safe environment - working with you to calm the unwanted noise that is anxiety. I can also help you address and resolve the depression that too often obscures our truest selves. Perhaps you’ve experienced a major upheaval or maybe you’re grappling with more subtle, disruptive changes to your day-to-day functioning. Either way, such shifts can be destabilizing, causing us to question core beliefs and ask: Am I even on the right path? New traumas may unfold, and older ones may awaken but we still have a very real need to feel grounded.
As a psychodynamic, trauma-focused therapist, I can help you process past experiences in a safe environment - working with you to calm the unwanted noise that is anxiety. I can also help you address and resolve the depression that too often obscures our truest selves. Perhaps you’ve experienced a major upheaval or maybe you’re grappling with more subtle, disruptive changes to your day-to-day functioning. Either way, such shifts can be destabilizing, causing us to question core beliefs and ask: Am I even on the right path? New traumas may unfold, and older ones may awaken but we still have a very real need to feel grounded.
(412) 754-7890 View (412) 754-7890
Photo of Bernadette Callaghan, Pre-Licensed Professional in Pittsburgh, PA
Bernadette Callaghan
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15201
When people feel weighed down by the heaviness that seems to consume them, providing a sense of space and reconstruction that allows a shift to occur is vital. In that shift, I hope to provide a supportive environment where they will feel that weight move and become the foundation on which they can rebuild their life. This heaviness is a unilateral condition experienced by all human beings. The secret is to create a skillset that permits the transition from weight being carried to weight being conquered. In my opinion, there is no ideal client, however, there is a blueprint of individual success for everyone.
When people feel weighed down by the heaviness that seems to consume them, providing a sense of space and reconstruction that allows a shift to occur is vital. In that shift, I hope to provide a supportive environment where they will feel that weight move and become the foundation on which they can rebuild their life. This heaviness is a unilateral condition experienced by all human beings. The secret is to create a skillset that permits the transition from weight being carried to weight being conquered. In my opinion, there is no ideal client, however, there is a blueprint of individual success for everyone.
(412) 899-1832 View (412) 899-1832
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.