Personality Disorders Therapists in Kitchener, ON

Photo of Kayla Holliday, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Kayla Holliday
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2H
Waitlist for new clients
I have also worked with members of the LGBTQ community, Indigenous folks, those with ADHD, autism, depression, anxiety, personality disorders, and more.
I became a Social Worker because of this intrinsic desire to walk alongside people through their pain and into their growth. As I’ve continued my own growth, both personally and professionally, I have developed a deep passion for working with folks across the lifespan, from ages 8 to 90, as they work towards healing and peace. I have worked with folks with various neurotypes, substance use and addiction, those experiencing housing insecurity and poverty, intimate partner violence/domestic violence, trauma and attachment challenges, self-esteem, emotion regulation, self-harm, suicidal ideation/suicidality, Dementia, and TBI/ABIs.
I have also worked with members of the LGBTQ community, Indigenous folks, those with ADHD, autism, depression, anxiety, personality disorders, and more.
I became a Social Worker because of this intrinsic desire to walk alongside people through their pain and into their growth. As I’ve continued my own growth, both personally and professionally, I have developed a deep passion for working with folks across the lifespan, from ages 8 to 90, as they work towards healing and peace. I have worked with folks with various neurotypes, substance use and addiction, those experiencing housing insecurity and poverty, intimate partner violence/domestic violence, trauma and attachment challenges, self-esteem, emotion regulation, self-harm, suicidal ideation/suicidality, Dementia, and TBI/ABIs.
(548) 483-6734 View (548) 483-6734
Photo of Heidi Sasek - KW Mental Health and Wellness, RP, MA, Registered Psychotherapist
KW Mental Health and Wellness
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2M
Some areas of specialty include: relationship /interpersonal, personality disorders, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, stress, self-harm, suicidal ideation, trauma, gender, identity, and finding balance, difficult life transitions, emotional dysregulation, and LGBTQ+.
We offer counselling with professional registered psychotherapists over the phone, online and in-person in Kitchener-Waterloo. Some of our therapists work includes: looking at how the past may be influencing the present, unpacking behaviours, regulating emotions, interpersonal relationships, impulsivity, and increasing mindfulness. We provide support that looks at people as a whole: physical, emotional, social and spiritual wellbeing. Some of our therapists have worked alongside individuals with a range of concerns and have worked specifically with borderline personality disorder, personality disorders, trauma and complex trauma.
Some areas of specialty include: relationship /interpersonal, personality disorders, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, stress, self-harm, suicidal ideation, trauma, gender, identity, and finding balance, difficult life transitions, emotional dysregulation, and LGBTQ+.
We offer counselling with professional registered psychotherapists over the phone, online and in-person in Kitchener-Waterloo. Some of our therapists work includes: looking at how the past may be influencing the present, unpacking behaviours, regulating emotions, interpersonal relationships, impulsivity, and increasing mindfulness. We provide support that looks at people as a whole: physical, emotional, social and spiritual wellbeing. Some of our therapists have worked alongside individuals with a range of concerns and have worked specifically with borderline personality disorder, personality disorders, trauma and complex trauma.
(226) 407-8589 View (226) 407-8589
Photo of Amelia Di Tomasso, RP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Amelia Di Tomasso
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2P
Now Accepting New Clients! Do you feel unable to handle your everyday life and relationships and find yourself wanting to escape? As a Certified Trauma Integration Clinician from the ATTCH Academy, I specialize in supporting individuals confronting difficulties including trauma, attachment wounds, addiction, complex grief and loss, eating disorders, body image, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, and personality disorders. My therapeutic approach is holistic, integrative, and informed by neuroscience while being grounded in anti-oppressive and harm-reduction frameworks for healing.
Now Accepting New Clients! Do you feel unable to handle your everyday life and relationships and find yourself wanting to escape? As a Certified Trauma Integration Clinician from the ATTCH Academy, I specialize in supporting individuals confronting difficulties including trauma, attachment wounds, addiction, complex grief and loss, eating disorders, body image, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, and personality disorders. My therapeutic approach is holistic, integrative, and informed by neuroscience while being grounded in anti-oppressive and harm-reduction frameworks for healing.
(226) 212-7744 View (226) 212-7744
Photo of Ashley Murphy Kilgar, BA hons, MSW, RSW
Ashley Murphy Kilgar
Registered Social Worker, Psychotherapist, BA hons, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Kitchener, ON N2A
I have expertise working with mental health (anxiety, depression, psychosis, bipolar, & personality disorders).
I am a caring and skilled therapist. I work with individuals, couples and families who are having difficulty coping with life stressors, addiction and mental health concerns. I support people to work through relationship, work, family and other life challenges. Using a non-judgmental approach I support you to move forward and make difficult but positive changes in your life. Each person I support is unique and will receive individualized treatment based on needs. I value in depth assessments to ensure that your situation and needs are understood. We will work together in a way that ensures your comfort and satisfaction with therapy.
I have expertise working with mental health (anxiety, depression, psychosis, bipolar, & personality disorders).
I am a caring and skilled therapist. I work with individuals, couples and families who are having difficulty coping with life stressors, addiction and mental health concerns. I support people to work through relationship, work, family and other life challenges. Using a non-judgmental approach I support you to move forward and make difficult but positive changes in your life. Each person I support is unique and will receive individualized treatment based on needs. I value in depth assessments to ensure that your situation and needs are understood. We will work together in a way that ensures your comfort and satisfaction with therapy.
(226) 962-2242 View (226) 962-2242
Photo of Sheri Clark, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Sheri Clark
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Kitchener, ON N2E  (Online Only)
Have you found yourself wanting help and support, yet others in your life think of you as the “strong” one and don't see your pain? Perhaps you work in a helping profession and don’t know where to turn for your own therapy. Anxiety, depression, or even burn out can lead to feeling lost and lonely. Maybe you have people with personality disorders in your life that make you doubt yourself or make the “easy” things very difficult. Many people are feeling disconnected from their community, themselves and the larger "something more". Creating a safe space where you can be heard and understood is the foundation of my work.
Have you found yourself wanting help and support, yet others in your life think of you as the “strong” one and don't see your pain? Perhaps you work in a helping profession and don’t know where to turn for your own therapy. Anxiety, depression, or even burn out can lead to feeling lost and lonely. Maybe you have people with personality disorders in your life that make you doubt yourself or make the “easy” things very difficult. Many people are feeling disconnected from their community, themselves and the larger "something more". Creating a safe space where you can be heard and understood is the foundation of my work.
(226) 212-1733 View (226) 212-1733
Photo of Rajan Chhatkuli, MA, MSc, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Rajan Chhatkuli
Registered Social Worker, MA, MSc, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Kitchener, ON N2A
With more than five years of assisting individuals with various challenges in different social work settings has given me a deeper understanding of current issues and expertise that impacts clients.I've been able to use my clinical skills to assist vulnerable individuals experiencing mental health issues with many barriers; and mental illness such as clinical depression, anxiety disorders, personality disorders, substance use, inclusive of co-morbid conditions and history of trauma,The prime focus while serving these clients are to assist them to manage their issues and stabilize their reintegration back into their normal setting.
With more than five years of assisting individuals with various challenges in different social work settings has given me a deeper understanding of current issues and expertise that impacts clients.I've been able to use my clinical skills to assist vulnerable individuals experiencing mental health issues with many barriers; and mental illness such as clinical depression, anxiety disorders, personality disorders, substance use, inclusive of co-morbid conditions and history of trauma,The prime focus while serving these clients are to assist them to manage their issues and stabilize their reintegration back into their normal setting.
(226) 457-6863 View (226) 457-6863
Photo of Koye Oyerinde, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Koye Oyerinde
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Kitchener, ON N2A  (Online Only)
I facilitated Cognitive Behavioural Therapy treatments for Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Social and Generalized Anxiety, Panic Disorder, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorders and also facilitated Dialectical Behavioural Therapy programs for Borderline Personality Disorders.
I enjoy working with individuals, families, and couples. This might be the first time you are seeking counselling or you may be seeking for a different counselling experience, picking the right counsellor for you is important. It is important to understand how we interpret our experiences and how they affects us. Our environments also have the ability to impact the way we interpret our experiences and interactions; it can be helpful to develop an awareness of the common miscommunication we experience based on our past experiences and in challenging ourselves to take steps towards wellness.
I facilitated Cognitive Behavioural Therapy treatments for Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Social and Generalized Anxiety, Panic Disorder, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorders and also facilitated Dialectical Behavioural Therapy programs for Borderline Personality Disorders.
I enjoy working with individuals, families, and couples. This might be the first time you are seeking counselling or you may be seeking for a different counselling experience, picking the right counsellor for you is important. It is important to understand how we interpret our experiences and how they affects us. Our environments also have the ability to impact the way we interpret our experiences and interactions; it can be helpful to develop an awareness of the common miscommunication we experience based on our past experiences and in challenging ourselves to take steps towards wellness.
(226) 400-6910 View (226) 400-6910
Photo of Carolyn Nonkes - Carolyn Nonkes at New Mind Therapy , MEd, RP, CCC, Registered Psychotherapist
Carolyn Nonkes at New Mind Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2A
If you often find yourself putting the happiness of others before your own, or if a critical inner voice seems to be holding you back, I'm here to help. Together, with compassion and proven methods, we'll explore the foundational beliefs and life patterns that are shaping your world. Our shared aim in therapy is to nurture a healthy sense of self, so you can feel more content and at peace in your own skin. Let's embark on this journey towards a more joyful and self-fulfilled you.
If you often find yourself putting the happiness of others before your own, or if a critical inner voice seems to be holding you back, I'm here to help. Together, with compassion and proven methods, we'll explore the foundational beliefs and life patterns that are shaping your world. Our shared aim in therapy is to nurture a healthy sense of self, so you can feel more content and at peace in your own skin. Let's embark on this journey towards a more joyful and self-fulfilled you.
(365) 800-4914 View (365) 800-4914
Photo of Niomi Anna Cherney, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Niomi Anna Cherney
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Kitchener, ON N2G
In our daily lives, we can run up against challenges that hold us back from living our lives to the fullest. These barriers and challenges have profound impacts on our mental health and wellbeing. I believe that truly seeing your identity in its complex layers can help you to develop advocacy skills, equipping you to be an advocate in your own life or your child's life. When working with children and young adults, I aim to understand the perspectives of child and parent together, seeking to collaboratively develop treatment goals that are client centred.
In our daily lives, we can run up against challenges that hold us back from living our lives to the fullest. These barriers and challenges have profound impacts on our mental health and wellbeing. I believe that truly seeing your identity in its complex layers can help you to develop advocacy skills, equipping you to be an advocate in your own life or your child's life. When working with children and young adults, I aim to understand the perspectives of child and parent together, seeking to collaboratively develop treatment goals that are client centred.
(548) 918-1175 View (548) 918-1175
Photo of Jennifer Henderson, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Jennifer Henderson
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Kitchener, ON N2C  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
How many of us focus solely on the problems we experience in our lives, while leaving out so much of our narrative, such as our hopes for ourselves, the ways that we survive life's challenges and our commitment to doing the work of healing even when it feels hard? Rather than focusing on “problems/behaviours”, I will explore with you the needs that your coping skills meet, and work on developing more adaptive ways of meeting those same needs. I will work collaboratively with you to explore stuck points, and look at the many different social factors that precipitate and maintain your sense of "stuckness"
How many of us focus solely on the problems we experience in our lives, while leaving out so much of our narrative, such as our hopes for ourselves, the ways that we survive life's challenges and our commitment to doing the work of healing even when it feels hard? Rather than focusing on “problems/behaviours”, I will explore with you the needs that your coping skills meet, and work on developing more adaptive ways of meeting those same needs. I will work collaboratively with you to explore stuck points, and look at the many different social factors that precipitate and maintain your sense of "stuckness"
(647) 370-3267 View (647) 370-3267
Photo of Megan-Fay Rothschild - Healing Hearth Counselling: Megan-Fay Rothschild , MA, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Healing Hearth Counselling: Megan-Fay Rothschild
Registered Social Worker, MA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2G
Being a person can be confusing. Sometimes we have a clear sense of what is wrong or needs to change, but we don't know how to get there. Other times we feel completely at sea, not even knowing how to name what we are feeling or what we want. There is no right way to approach this work: bring your self and we can work together to sort out the rest. Of course, we do not exist in a vacuum. Our identities, relationships, cultures and beliefs are a part of who we are and impact our experiences. Let's explore who you are, your challenges, what you feel, and what you need to help you to navigate life in a way that feels important to you.
Being a person can be confusing. Sometimes we have a clear sense of what is wrong or needs to change, but we don't know how to get there. Other times we feel completely at sea, not even knowing how to name what we are feeling or what we want. There is no right way to approach this work: bring your self and we can work together to sort out the rest. Of course, we do not exist in a vacuum. Our identities, relationships, cultures and beliefs are a part of who we are and impact our experiences. Let's explore who you are, your challenges, what you feel, and what you need to help you to navigate life in a way that feels important to you.
(548) 490-5233 View (548) 490-5233
Photo of Des Mc Enaney, BSW, RSW, MSc, EMDRC, Registered Social Worker
Des Mc Enaney
Registered Social Worker, BSW, RSW, MSc, EMDRC
Verified Verified
Kitchener, ON N2H  (Online Only)
Do you struggle with trauma or PTSD? Does stress, anxiety, depression, or grief impact your relationships or ability to function day to day? Do you feel ‘stuck’ or overwhelmed by it all? With over twenty years of clinical experience as a social worker and psychotherapist, coupled with extensive training, I know that change is possible and that your present situation can change for the better. Trauma used to be thought of as a permanent state but not anymore. I have spent thousands of hours helping people get past their past and recover from trauma.
Do you struggle with trauma or PTSD? Does stress, anxiety, depression, or grief impact your relationships or ability to function day to day? Do you feel ‘stuck’ or overwhelmed by it all? With over twenty years of clinical experience as a social worker and psychotherapist, coupled with extensive training, I know that change is possible and that your present situation can change for the better. Trauma used to be thought of as a permanent state but not anymore. I have spent thousands of hours helping people get past their past and recover from trauma.
(226) 799-2467 View (226) 799-2467
Photo of Sunna Murphy - Sanctuary Counselling and Training, HBA, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Sanctuary Counselling and Training
Registered Social Worker, HBA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2G
Waitlist for new clients
A Sanctuary is a place of comfort, safety and healing, a refuge from the storms of our life. I aim not only to provide a sanctuary for my clients but to help them build one within themselves. Whatever you are struggling with I can help you to navigate by providing a safe & comforting environment where you can explore your own unique path to healing, growth and change. Together we will address the current issues as well as the relational patterns, experiences and beliefs that wound your sense of belonging and create obstacles to building a life worth living.
A Sanctuary is a place of comfort, safety and healing, a refuge from the storms of our life. I aim not only to provide a sanctuary for my clients but to help them build one within themselves. Whatever you are struggling with I can help you to navigate by providing a safe & comforting environment where you can explore your own unique path to healing, growth and change. Together we will address the current issues as well as the relational patterns, experiences and beliefs that wound your sense of belonging and create obstacles to building a life worth living.
(548) 290-7786 View (548) 290-7786
Photo of Sodaba Surush, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Sodaba Surush
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2H
I am a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario. I take a client-centered and compassionate approach to my work and uphold the values of dignity and respect for all. I specialize in working with individuals and couples coping with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, life transitions (including immigration), addictions, and identity related issues. My practice is influenced by evidence-based modalities of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Gottman Method, and incorporates both mindfulness and meditation practices.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario. I take a client-centered and compassionate approach to my work and uphold the values of dignity and respect for all. I specialize in working with individuals and couples coping with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, life transitions (including immigration), addictions, and identity related issues. My practice is influenced by evidence-based modalities of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Gottman Method, and incorporates both mindfulness and meditation practices.
(548) 488-4207 View (548) 488-4207
Photo of Brooke Hill, RP, MEd, Registered Psychotherapist
Brooke Hill
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2P
I am a Clinic Director and Psychotherapist, highly experienced in Canada and abroad, in providing individualized care for a variety of mental issues and illnesses. An ideal client would be someone who is willing to put in the work to take a step towards change. Yet, you may not be ready for change, either way therapy is a safe form to find out. I want to help clients achieve their mental health goals through empowerment, awareness, acceptance and healing, with the use scientifically-based techniques that have been proven to be highly effective. You'll acquire the necessary tools to achieve a mind-body-soul approach to health.
I am a Clinic Director and Psychotherapist, highly experienced in Canada and abroad, in providing individualized care for a variety of mental issues and illnesses. An ideal client would be someone who is willing to put in the work to take a step towards change. Yet, you may not be ready for change, either way therapy is a safe form to find out. I want to help clients achieve their mental health goals through empowerment, awareness, acceptance and healing, with the use scientifically-based techniques that have been proven to be highly effective. You'll acquire the necessary tools to achieve a mind-body-soul approach to health.
(289) 210-6205 View (289) 210-6205
Photo of Theresa Will, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Theresa Will
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2H
Reaching out for help, especially from a stranger, is incredibly scary and courageous - the first step is often the hardest. I always feel honoured to join my clients on their journey to wellness and I welcome the opportunity to work with you. I am committed to working with you at your pace. My approach is down to earth and collaborative, always. I strive to maintain an emotionally safe and judgment free space so that you may feel respected and heard. I am extensively trained in trauma therapy and have participated in Phases 1, 2, 3, 4 and Masters level of Brainspotting, as well as the specialty Children and Adolescents training.
Reaching out for help, especially from a stranger, is incredibly scary and courageous - the first step is often the hardest. I always feel honoured to join my clients on their journey to wellness and I welcome the opportunity to work with you. I am committed to working with you at your pace. My approach is down to earth and collaborative, always. I strive to maintain an emotionally safe and judgment free space so that you may feel respected and heard. I am extensively trained in trauma therapy and have participated in Phases 1, 2, 3, 4 and Masters level of Brainspotting, as well as the specialty Children and Adolescents training.
(226) 400-8579 View (226) 400-8579
Photo of Mehdi 'aras' Nasrin, RP , MACP, CHyp, PhD, Registered Psychotherapist
Mehdi 'aras' Nasrin
Registered Psychotherapist, RP , MACP, CHyp, PhD
Verified Verified
Kitchener, ON N2B
I believe that we are all in a continuous process of identifying our internal resources, embracing our own creativity and mobilizing our psychic energy. My aim for therapy is to help my clients arrive at a personal, yet structured and novel, understanding of themselves, others and the world around them. I invite my clients to enrich their personal narratives and use their own unique abilities and skills. Each session is a collaborative attempt to elaborate on the client’s mental map. Each conversation is a mutual dialogue on how you could experience yourself differently.
I believe that we are all in a continuous process of identifying our internal resources, embracing our own creativity and mobilizing our psychic energy. My aim for therapy is to help my clients arrive at a personal, yet structured and novel, understanding of themselves, others and the world around them. I invite my clients to enrich their personal narratives and use their own unique abilities and skills. Each session is a collaborative attempt to elaborate on the client’s mental map. Each conversation is a mutual dialogue on how you could experience yourself differently.
(226) 774-0695 View (226) 774-0695
Photo of Farrah Hemani, BA, ECE, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Farrah Hemani
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, ECE
Verified Verified
Kitchener, ON N2H
As a child psychotherapist, my approach involves keen observation of a child's play, drawings, words, and behavior. Through this process, I help children verbalize the thoughts and emotions underlying their challenging behaviors. I tailor my methods to each individual child or family, ensuring an age-appropriate approach. Maintaining a neutral and non-directive stance, I create an atmosphere where children and adolescents feel free to express themselves without fear of punishment or rejection. This fosters trust and understanding, allowing them to communicate their hopes and fears ultimately shaping their perception of the world.
As a child psychotherapist, my approach involves keen observation of a child's play, drawings, words, and behavior. Through this process, I help children verbalize the thoughts and emotions underlying their challenging behaviors. I tailor my methods to each individual child or family, ensuring an age-appropriate approach. Maintaining a neutral and non-directive stance, I create an atmosphere where children and adolescents feel free to express themselves without fear of punishment or rejection. This fosters trust and understanding, allowing them to communicate their hopes and fears ultimately shaping their perception of the world.
(289) 207-6687 View (289) 207-6687
Photo of Kaitlyn Power, MSW, RSW, TCTSY-F, Registered Social Worker
Kaitlyn Power
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, TCTSY-F
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2H
My clinical work has been offering individual and group therapy to those who are navigating various life obstacle ages 15+. Whether it is impacting life engagement, decision making or emotional capacity I work along side folks experiencing trauma, depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, eating disorder, addiction, grief, stress or those suffering with persistent or chronic pain. My clinical work and training in trauma has been supporting those who have experiences of childhood or adult sexual abuse, intimate partner violence, workplace trauma including first responders and military personnel, medical/dental trauma.
My clinical work has been offering individual and group therapy to those who are navigating various life obstacle ages 15+. Whether it is impacting life engagement, decision making or emotional capacity I work along side folks experiencing trauma, depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, eating disorder, addiction, grief, stress or those suffering with persistent or chronic pain. My clinical work and training in trauma has been supporting those who have experiences of childhood or adult sexual abuse, intimate partner violence, workplace trauma including first responders and military personnel, medical/dental trauma.
(226) 407-6039 View (226) 407-6039
Photo of Josh Wade, MSW, BSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Josh Wade
Registered Social Worker, MSW, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2H
Would you like to learn skills that will help you process anxiety, depression, or trauma? Do you feel overwhelmed or desire more structure in your life? Do you often feel lonely or stuck inside your head? It’s normal to feel overwhelmed when life moves so quickly, which is why it can be helpful to have support with slowing things down and formulating a plan. Improving your mental health and well-being can be as simple as developing a daily routine that reduces stress and increases energy. It can also include processing difficult experiences, learning skills to cope with life challenges, or simply having someone to talk to.
Would you like to learn skills that will help you process anxiety, depression, or trauma? Do you feel overwhelmed or desire more structure in your life? Do you often feel lonely or stuck inside your head? It’s normal to feel overwhelmed when life moves so quickly, which is why it can be helpful to have support with slowing things down and formulating a plan. Improving your mental health and well-being can be as simple as developing a daily routine that reduces stress and increases energy. It can also include processing difficult experiences, learning skills to cope with life challenges, or simply having someone to talk to.
(548) 900-9605 View (548) 900-9605

See more therapy options for Kitchener

Personality Disorders Counsellors

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 specialises 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.