Personality Disorders Therapists in El Mirage, AZ

Photo of Tara Looney, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tara Looney
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
El Mirage, AZ 85335
I have been practicing counseling for six years. I specialize in trauma, CPTSD, and personality disorders by using integrated trauma-informed modalities. I have experience with individuals transitioning through major life changes, mood disorders, ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorder. After working with children and families in-home, I worked with individuals gaining what I believe are the most important tools in therapy; patience and acceptance. I am passionate about system issues impacting our culture, providing holistic care, and being genuine with my clients.
I have been practicing counseling for six years. I specialize in trauma, CPTSD, and personality disorders by using integrated trauma-informed modalities. I have experience with individuals transitioning through major life changes, mood disorders, ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorder. After working with children and families in-home, I worked with individuals gaining what I believe are the most important tools in therapy; patience and acceptance. I am passionate about system issues impacting our culture, providing holistic care, and being genuine with my clients.
(623) 439-7634 View (623) 439-7634
Christopher L Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC, LISAC
Verified Verified
El Mirage, AZ 85335
I provide individual counseling services for those affected by gambling addiction. I focus on assisting the gambler to decrease or eliminate gambling activities. I have developed multiple interventions over the past 15 years counseling gamblers. Many of those services can be covered by the Arizona Department of Gaming Office of Problem Gambling, Treatment Assistance Program if certain criteria is met. Additionally, provide counseling for Veterans and narcissistic abuse recovery. Most major insurance is accepted.
I provide individual counseling services for those affected by gambling addiction. I focus on assisting the gambler to decrease or eliminate gambling activities. I have developed multiple interventions over the past 15 years counseling gamblers. Many of those services can be covered by the Arizona Department of Gaming Office of Problem Gambling, Treatment Assistance Program if certain criteria is met. Additionally, provide counseling for Veterans and narcissistic abuse recovery. Most major insurance is accepted.
(602) 900-9685 View (602) 900-9685
Photo of Danielle Weeks, MS, LAC, Counselor
Danielle Weeks
Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
El Mirage, AZ 85335
Where there is judgment, there is no space for growth. I offer a safe and nonjudgmental space for clients to explore, heal, and thrive without fear of criticism or bias. My approach is client-centered and strength-based, focusing on empowering individuals to achieve their goals and overcome obstacles. I have training in various therapeutic modalities, including CBT, DBT, ACT, MI, and REBT; specializing in the treatment of mental health and addictions.
Where there is judgment, there is no space for growth. I offer a safe and nonjudgmental space for clients to explore, heal, and thrive without fear of criticism or bias. My approach is client-centered and strength-based, focusing on empowering individuals to achieve their goals and overcome obstacles. I have training in various therapeutic modalities, including CBT, DBT, ACT, MI, and REBT; specializing in the treatment of mental health and addictions.
(928) 363-3533 View (928) 363-3533

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Carol Dickinson - Emdr And Trauma Specialist, MS, LPC, CCTS-I, CRP, Counselor
Carol Dickinson - Emdr And Trauma Specialist
Counselor, MS, LPC, CCTS-I, CRP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glendale, AZ 85308
We may also use Dialectical Behavior Therapy and other interventions for PTSD, OCD, addiction, anxiety, personality disorders, bipolar disorders, grief, self-harm, and dissociation.
What constitutes a traumatic event is a very personal experience. Often it isn’t until you are in therapy that you discover the full implications and impact on the quality of your life. The footprint of trauma can show itself as difficulty at work, unhealthy relationship patterns, anxiety, depression, or a lack of sleep. It can also be the total and complete interruption of your life. What you may think is anxiety or depression could be early trauma or developmental trauma. It can also be complex trauma created after multiple events and experiences. It is never what's wrong with you but what's happened to you!
We may also use Dialectical Behavior Therapy and other interventions for PTSD, OCD, addiction, anxiety, personality disorders, bipolar disorders, grief, self-harm, and dissociation.
What constitutes a traumatic event is a very personal experience. Often it isn’t until you are in therapy that you discover the full implications and impact on the quality of your life. The footprint of trauma can show itself as difficulty at work, unhealthy relationship patterns, anxiety, depression, or a lack of sleep. It can also be the total and complete interruption of your life. What you may think is anxiety or depression could be early trauma or developmental trauma. It can also be complex trauma created after multiple events and experiences. It is never what's wrong with you but what's happened to you!
(623) 257-5198 View (623) 257-5198
Photo of Erica Sims - Dynamic Counseling and Coaching Solutions, MAPC, LPC, CCTP, CAGSSAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dynamic Counseling and Coaching Solutions
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAPC, LPC, CCTP, CAGSSAC
Verified Verified
Glendale, AZ 85308
Our clinicians specialize in the treatment of a wide array of issues such as the effects of trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, personality disorders, family conflict, life/career changes and much more.
At Dynamic Counseling and Coaching Solutions we believe whole people connecting with one another enhances the well-being of the family and the community. Similarly, people living and working together as whole communities will make the world better for all of us. Additionally, we all need places where we can speak without fear of judgement or rejection. When these needs are met, barriers to growth and well being can be removed. Our goal is to provide an environment that fosters the kind of individual growth that comes from intentional change by promoting health, healing and restoration.
Our clinicians specialize in the treatment of a wide array of issues such as the effects of trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, personality disorders, family conflict, life/career changes and much more.
At Dynamic Counseling and Coaching Solutions we believe whole people connecting with one another enhances the well-being of the family and the community. Similarly, people living and working together as whole communities will make the world better for all of us. Additionally, we all need places where we can speak without fear of judgement or rejection. When these needs are met, barriers to growth and well being can be removed. Our goal is to provide an environment that fosters the kind of individual growth that comes from intentional change by promoting health, healing and restoration.
(602) 598-5373 View (602) 598-5373
Photo of Samantha Juliene, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Juliene
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Glendale, AZ 85308  (Online Only)
I specialize in Dissociative Disorders, Trauma, LGBTQ+ individuals/couples, and personality disorders.
Hi! I first want to welcome you to my practice and congratulate you on your courage! As a therapist, my goal is to provide a space for you to be authentically who you are without judgment. I provide support during the hard times, ask tough questions when necessary, and work with you to find practical solutions to your challenges. I aim to forge a deep and trusting relationship so that you feel comfortable discussing your most protected thoughts and feelings. There are no quick fixes, but developing the life skills, improving self-respect, and connecting deeply with loved ones are key in building wholeness in mind, body, and spirit!
I specialize in Dissociative Disorders, Trauma, LGBTQ+ individuals/couples, and personality disorders.
Hi! I first want to welcome you to my practice and congratulate you on your courage! As a therapist, my goal is to provide a space for you to be authentically who you are without judgment. I provide support during the hard times, ask tough questions when necessary, and work with you to find practical solutions to your challenges. I aim to forge a deep and trusting relationship so that you feel comfortable discussing your most protected thoughts and feelings. There are no quick fixes, but developing the life skills, improving self-respect, and connecting deeply with loved ones are key in building wholeness in mind, body, and spirit!
(747) 207-4454 View (747) 207-4454
Photo of Bonnie A DenDooven, EMDR, CBT, ISTDP, LPC, Brief, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bonnie A DenDooven
Licensed Professional Counselor, EMDR, CBT, ISTDP, LPC, Brief
Verified Verified
Surprise, AZ 85374
I work with EMPATHs and Narcissistic abuse.
I'm passionate about helping people heal. I'll meet you where you are in pain, SEVERE DEPRESSION, ANXIETY, life struggles. My approach is SHORT-TERM with ISTDP -- "Intensive Short Term Dynamic Psychotherapy" -- based on empathy, genuineness, and it works QUICKLY to facilitate permanent change -- sometimes in a single session. Dramatic change in less than 5 sessions. Compassion and Empathy for you. Let's try something different to make a change in life. . . . . . . . . . . . “The greatest discovery of my generation is that human beings can alter their lives by altering their attitudes of mind.” —William James.
I work with EMPATHs and Narcissistic abuse.
I'm passionate about helping people heal. I'll meet you where you are in pain, SEVERE DEPRESSION, ANXIETY, life struggles. My approach is SHORT-TERM with ISTDP -- "Intensive Short Term Dynamic Psychotherapy" -- based on empathy, genuineness, and it works QUICKLY to facilitate permanent change -- sometimes in a single session. Dramatic change in less than 5 sessions. Compassion and Empathy for you. Let's try something different to make a change in life. . . . . . . . . . . . “The greatest discovery of my generation is that human beings can alter their lives by altering their attitudes of mind.” —William James.
(623) 552-3868 View (623) 552-3868
Photo of Bethany Rosenfeld, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bethany Rosenfeld
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Glendale, AZ 85308
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners. I graduated from Argosy University Phoenix with my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I work with children, adolescents, and adults and provide individual, couples, and family therapy. I have worked with individuals with an array of behavioral and mental health issues including: anxiety and mood disorders, post-traumatic stress, personality disorders, trauma-related difficulties, suicidality and self harm, grief, adjustment disorders, couples and family conflicts, and other phase of life issues.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners. I graduated from Argosy University Phoenix with my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I work with children, adolescents, and adults and provide individual, couples, and family therapy. I have worked with individuals with an array of behavioral and mental health issues including: anxiety and mood disorders, post-traumatic stress, personality disorders, trauma-related difficulties, suicidality and self harm, grief, adjustment disorders, couples and family conflicts, and other phase of life issues.
(623) 300-1521 View (623) 300-1521
Photo of Nicole Crist, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Crist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glendale, AZ 85305
In my practice, no topic or challenge is off-limits, including trauma, burnout, anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, relationship or attachment style issues, and personality disorders.
I specialize in supporting couples and individuals on their unique journey of healing. If you're grappling with emotional uncertainty or finding it difficult to connect with your feelings, or are constantly running into the same patterns and challenges, therapy offers a transformative path forward. I'd be honored to assist you on your path to discover your authentic selves and live a life in alignment with your core values.
In my practice, no topic or challenge is off-limits, including trauma, burnout, anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, relationship or attachment style issues, and personality disorders.
I specialize in supporting couples and individuals on their unique journey of healing. If you're grappling with emotional uncertainty or finding it difficult to connect with your feelings, or are constantly running into the same patterns and challenges, therapy offers a transformative path forward. I'd be honored to assist you on your path to discover your authentic selves and live a life in alignment with your core values.
(602) 932-2762 View (602) 932-2762
Photo of Morgan M Devlin, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Morgan M Devlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Glendale, AZ 85302
My specialty is transitional aged youth (aged 14-25). I have vast experience with children in the foster care system as I was a case manager for the state prior to becoming a therapist. I also have advanced degrees in anthropology and work well with the Native American population. I have extensive training in trauma therapy, but have also treated people diagnosed with depression, anxiety, personality disorders (most notably borderline personality disorder), and psychosis. I do have experience treating those with substance abuse issues but these are typically secondary diagnoses.
My specialty is transitional aged youth (aged 14-25). I have vast experience with children in the foster care system as I was a case manager for the state prior to becoming a therapist. I also have advanced degrees in anthropology and work well with the Native American population. I have extensive training in trauma therapy, but have also treated people diagnosed with depression, anxiety, personality disorders (most notably borderline personality disorder), and psychosis. I do have experience treating those with substance abuse issues but these are typically secondary diagnoses.
(602) 693-1604 View (602) 693-1604
Photo of Alexander Gandhi Puca, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexander Gandhi Puca
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, AZ 85345  (Online Only)
I am a LMSW (Licensed Master Social Worker) and a CCTP (Certified Clinical Trauma Professional) I have extensive experience with SMI (Serious Mental Illness), Autism, DID/ Personality disorders, Traumatic Brain Iniury (TBI), Substance abuse/addiction, Depression/Anxiety, and Anger management.
No matter the issue, need, or goal, please allow therapy to be an outlet to addressing and achieving a better understanding of where our next steps are going to take us, as well as the tools and coping strategies that will get us there. Whether it be inner work and healing from traumas, or healthy navigation of the ever challenging world around you, let’s dive into what has been standing in your way. Positive, forward growth in this partnership is key.
I am a LMSW (Licensed Master Social Worker) and a CCTP (Certified Clinical Trauma Professional) I have extensive experience with SMI (Serious Mental Illness), Autism, DID/ Personality disorders, Traumatic Brain Iniury (TBI), Substance abuse/addiction, Depression/Anxiety, and Anger management.
No matter the issue, need, or goal, please allow therapy to be an outlet to addressing and achieving a better understanding of where our next steps are going to take us, as well as the tools and coping strategies that will get us there. Whether it be inner work and healing from traumas, or healthy navigation of the ever challenging world around you, let’s dive into what has been standing in your way. Positive, forward growth in this partnership is key.
(928) 365-9216 View (928) 365-9216
Photo of Lori Mockler, LPC , CTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lori Mockler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC , CTP
Verified Verified
Peoria, AZ 85382  (Online Only)
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I provide a compassionate and supportive environment where clients can explore their personal challenges and develop practical strategies for growth. I provide multiple modalities to my clients to help them overcome their challenges and make lasting changes. I have experience working with clients who struggle with depression, anxiety, mood dysregulation, motivation, self-esteem, and trauma. I also work with personality disorders such as bipolar and borderline. If you want to be better at managing your symptoms lets discuss how we can start towards the path of self-awareness and personal growth.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I provide a compassionate and supportive environment where clients can explore their personal challenges and develop practical strategies for growth. I provide multiple modalities to my clients to help them overcome their challenges and make lasting changes. I have experience working with clients who struggle with depression, anxiety, mood dysregulation, motivation, self-esteem, and trauma. I also work with personality disorders such as bipolar and borderline. If you want to be better at managing your symptoms lets discuss how we can start towards the path of self-awareness and personal growth.
(928) 460-7940 View (928) 460-7940
Photo of Lisa Ruelas, LAC, Counselor
Lisa Ruelas
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Glendale, AZ 85301
I enjoy using different therapy modalities to target depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, personality disorders, life transitions, and different forms of abuse.
Sit back, relax and let's get comfy! My counseling style is like a cozy couch, non-judgy, super empathetic, with lots of smiles and laughs. I strive to create a safe space where you feel heard and understood. I am committed to taking part of the journey with each client, I am here to listen with an open heart and mind. Being a mother of 4, gives me a unique perspective on life’s challenges. I believe even through the toughest times anyone is capable of unlocking new levels of fulfillment, purpose and true happiness. You have what it takes to conquer life's hurdles! Together we'll navigate this journey towards a brighter future.
I enjoy using different therapy modalities to target depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, personality disorders, life transitions, and different forms of abuse.
Sit back, relax and let's get comfy! My counseling style is like a cozy couch, non-judgy, super empathetic, with lots of smiles and laughs. I strive to create a safe space where you feel heard and understood. I am committed to taking part of the journey with each client, I am here to listen with an open heart and mind. Being a mother of 4, gives me a unique perspective on life’s challenges. I believe even through the toughest times anyone is capable of unlocking new levels of fulfillment, purpose and true happiness. You have what it takes to conquer life's hurdles! Together we'll navigate this journey towards a brighter future.
(623) 303-4803 View (623) 303-4803
Photo of Rosina Salerno, MA, LPC, LCPC
Rosina Salerno
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Glendale, AZ 85301  (Online Only)
I have specialized training in treating individuals who have experienced depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, grief, bi-polar disorder, life transitions, relationship issues, personality disorders (borderline personality disorder), and low self-esteem.
Are you feeling lost, anxious, depressed? Looking to process trauma or adverse childhood experiences? When life challenges are overwhelming, maintaining a productive, and happy life can be difficult. You deserve to feel your best. You deserve to be content, have peace, and most importantly, have self-love. My job is to help you learn and develop long-lasting, effective skills for handling overwhelming emotions, coping with distress or trauma, communicating more assertively, and feeling strong and capable in your everyday life.
I have specialized training in treating individuals who have experienced depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, grief, bi-polar disorder, life transitions, relationship issues, personality disorders (borderline personality disorder), and low self-esteem.
Are you feeling lost, anxious, depressed? Looking to process trauma or adverse childhood experiences? When life challenges are overwhelming, maintaining a productive, and happy life can be difficult. You deserve to feel your best. You deserve to be content, have peace, and most importantly, have self-love. My job is to help you learn and develop long-lasting, effective skills for handling overwhelming emotions, coping with distress or trauma, communicating more assertively, and feeling strong and capable in your everyday life.
(708) 847-9259 View (708) 847-9259
Photo of Doug Malm, PsyD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Doug Malm
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glendale, AZ 85301
I am truly sorry for any pain you may be feeling. As a compassionate and caring therapist, I understand the deep hurt and confusion that life can bring. My empathetic approach is designed to provide a safe and supportive space where you can heal and center yourself. I specialize in providing treatment for relationship problems, dating, divorce, loneliness, depression, anxiety, family conflicts, trauma, emotional overwhelm, being overweight, and coping with fear and avoidance. I also aid in healing the overwhelm and uncertainty of gaslighting or emotional abuse inflicted by narcissistic, domineering or controlling others.
I am truly sorry for any pain you may be feeling. As a compassionate and caring therapist, I understand the deep hurt and confusion that life can bring. My empathetic approach is designed to provide a safe and supportive space where you can heal and center yourself. I specialize in providing treatment for relationship problems, dating, divorce, loneliness, depression, anxiety, family conflicts, trauma, emotional overwhelm, being overweight, and coping with fear and avoidance. I also aid in healing the overwhelm and uncertainty of gaslighting or emotional abuse inflicted by narcissistic, domineering or controlling others.
(480) 409-2454 View (480) 409-2454
Photo of Todd Basta, MBA, LPC, BC-TMH, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Todd Basta
Licensed Professional Counselor, MBA, LPC, BC-TMH, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85037
Hello and welcome. I am an experienced psychotherapist; serving diverse populations. My theoretical orientation (approach) is based on Carl Rogers "Person Centered". My education and training in ‘community health’ has enabled me the opportunity to serve high-need populations with a wide variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, personality disorders, Bipolar, (OCD), and neurodiverse populations. I use a direct and clinical approach with my clients; identifying and addressing key client issues, quickly, in an ethical and confidential manner.
Hello and welcome. I am an experienced psychotherapist; serving diverse populations. My theoretical orientation (approach) is based on Carl Rogers "Person Centered". My education and training in ‘community health’ has enabled me the opportunity to serve high-need populations with a wide variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, personality disorders, Bipolar, (OCD), and neurodiverse populations. I use a direct and clinical approach with my clients; identifying and addressing key client issues, quickly, in an ethical and confidential manner.
(480) 485-6708 View (480) 485-6708
Photo of Deborah Partington, MA, MFA, PsyD, Psychologist
Deborah Partington
Psychologist, MA, MFA, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glendale, AZ 85305
For the past 20 years I have worked with individuals experiencing a variety of life challenges, including chronic mental illness. In my practice, I work with adults struggling with depression and/or anxiety and feel locked into a less-than-optimal way of being. My practice is based on Existential-Humanistic principles. I believe all people hold within themselves the path to healthier living. Through learning to focus on the Present, I help individuals find deeper understanding and satisfaction in themselves, their relationships, and their daily lives.
For the past 20 years I have worked with individuals experiencing a variety of life challenges, including chronic mental illness. In my practice, I work with adults struggling with depression and/or anxiety and feel locked into a less-than-optimal way of being. My practice is based on Existential-Humanistic principles. I believe all people hold within themselves the path to healthier living. Through learning to focus on the Present, I help individuals find deeper understanding and satisfaction in themselves, their relationships, and their daily lives.
(602) 857-8503 View (602) 857-8503
Photo of Michael Richard Rose - Michael R Rose PhD LCSW, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael R Rose PhD LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Glendale, AZ 85308
I assist individuals and couples over the age of 21 to gain understanding and management of the issues causing conflict.
I assist individuals and couples over the age of 21 to gain understanding and management of the issues causing conflict.
(602) 483-4682 View (602) 483-4682
Photo of Jenny Baumgardner, PhD, Psychologist
Jenny Baumgardner
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Litchfield Park, AZ 85340  (Online Only)
Feeling anxious, depressed or don't know how to cope? You may feel frustrated, but determined to find relief. Using best practices, including teletherapy, you can have confidence in working with me to be happy again! We will work to clear up your problem and return you quickly to your work and hobbies. I often tell new patients, "You're not telling me anything I don't think we can work through". E-mail and find out how I can help you! I want you to thrive and be happy!
Feeling anxious, depressed or don't know how to cope? You may feel frustrated, but determined to find relief. Using best practices, including teletherapy, you can have confidence in working with me to be happy again! We will work to clear up your problem and return you quickly to your work and hobbies. I often tell new patients, "You're not telling me anything I don't think we can work through". E-mail and find out how I can help you! I want you to thrive and be happy!
(520) 457-7837 View (520) 457-7837
Photo of Kari Hall, MS, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kari Hall
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Glendale, AZ 85304  (Online Only)
I am so glad you are finding my page! Your well-being is worth investing in, and finding a therapist that is right for YOU is a powerful act of self-care and self-improvement. My name is Kari, and I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who specializes in working with teens and adults struggling with complex trauma, PTSD, dissociation, addictions, and eating disorders. Incorporating evidence-based approaches, such as EMDR and Somatic Psychology, I assist my clients in creating practical and achievable strategies to enhance self-regulation and transform emotions and negative beliefs stemming from difficult life experiences.
I am so glad you are finding my page! Your well-being is worth investing in, and finding a therapist that is right for YOU is a powerful act of self-care and self-improvement. My name is Kari, and I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who specializes in working with teens and adults struggling with complex trauma, PTSD, dissociation, addictions, and eating disorders. Incorporating evidence-based approaches, such as EMDR and Somatic Psychology, I assist my clients in creating practical and achievable strategies to enhance self-regulation and transform emotions and negative beliefs stemming from difficult life experiences.
(623) 288-5372 View (623) 288-5372

See more therapy options for El Mirage

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.