Personality Disorders Therapists in Baltimore, MD

Photo of Alex Samets, LCSW-C, MSW, MFA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alex Samets
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MSW, MFA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21211
My areas of clinical interest include: personality disorders, depression & mood disorders, anxiety, loss & bereavement, trauma - especially trauma occurring in the context of college fraternity structures - relationship & intimacy issues, creative/artistic blocks and issues specific to athletes and athletic performance, and individual & family transitions.
I am trained as a psychoanalyst and practice a relational form of psychodynamic therapy that views the therapeutic relationship as the site of potential transformation. I often have success working with people who have had negative or lackluster experiences in previous therapies and those who are ambivalent about beginning therapy. I specialize in longterm relational work and in working with adult men and athletes.
My areas of clinical interest include: personality disorders, depression & mood disorders, anxiety, loss & bereavement, trauma - especially trauma occurring in the context of college fraternity structures - relationship & intimacy issues, creative/artistic blocks and issues specific to athletes and athletic performance, and individual & family transitions.
I am trained as a psychoanalyst and practice a relational form of psychodynamic therapy that views the therapeutic relationship as the site of potential transformation. I often have success working with people who have had negative or lackluster experiences in previous therapies and those who are ambivalent about beginning therapy. I specialize in longterm relational work and in working with adult men and athletes.
(443) 843-0422 View (443) 843-0422
Photo of Kris T Gebhard, PhD, Psychologist
Kris T Gebhard
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21211
Waitlist for new clients
My specialties include gender-affirming care, supporting individuals dealing with traumatic stress (including cultural trauma), PTSD, personality disorders, bipolar disorder, gender dysphoria, depression, and anxiety.
I aim to garden healing so that my clients can more vibrantly and intentionally shape change as their truest selves. I'm genderqueer, transmasculine, queer, and enjoy working with clients across the gender and sexuality spectrum, including trans, genderqueer, non-binary, intersex, LGB and pansexual-identified individuals, and individuals in diverse relationship structures including polyamory and ethical non-monogamy. I'm kink/BDSM-affirming, sex and body-positive. I've worked w/artists, professionals, organizers/activists, students, and disabled individuals and couples. I am trained in Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples.
My specialties include gender-affirming care, supporting individuals dealing with traumatic stress (including cultural trauma), PTSD, personality disorders, bipolar disorder, gender dysphoria, depression, and anxiety.
I aim to garden healing so that my clients can more vibrantly and intentionally shape change as their truest selves. I'm genderqueer, transmasculine, queer, and enjoy working with clients across the gender and sexuality spectrum, including trans, genderqueer, non-binary, intersex, LGB and pansexual-identified individuals, and individuals in diverse relationship structures including polyamory and ethical non-monogamy. I'm kink/BDSM-affirming, sex and body-positive. I've worked w/artists, professionals, organizers/activists, students, and disabled individuals and couples. I am trained in Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples.
(240) 443-3726 View (240) 443-3726
Photo of Madeline Janssen, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Madeline Janssen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21211
I specialize in children, adolescents, and adults who are impacted by anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, or personality disorders.
As a therapist, facilitating goal achievement involves fostering a collaborative relationship, clarifying objectives, and tailoring interventions to the client's strengths and needs. Employing evidence-based techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or motivational interviewing can empower clients to identify barriers, develop coping strategies, and sustain progress. Cultivating a supportive environment and celebrating milestones can further motivate clients on their journey towards self-improvement and fulfillment.
I specialize in children, adolescents, and adults who are impacted by anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, or personality disorders.
As a therapist, facilitating goal achievement involves fostering a collaborative relationship, clarifying objectives, and tailoring interventions to the client's strengths and needs. Employing evidence-based techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or motivational interviewing can empower clients to identify barriers, develop coping strategies, and sustain progress. Cultivating a supportive environment and celebrating milestones can further motivate clients on their journey towards self-improvement and fulfillment.
(410) 936-4135 View (410) 936-4135
Photo of Amanda Menke, LCSW-C, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Menke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21230  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My experience includes working with clients diagnosed with ASD, Personality Disorders, ADHD, DMDD, ODD, Bipolar Disorder, BPD, Depression, PTSD and Anxiety.
Not currently able to accept new clients. I firmly believe in holistic wellness and cater my practice towards helping my clients to achieve their goals. Therapy is only effective when it meets your needs and caters towards you as your own unique self. Therapy is also an expenditure when it comes to time, money and energy. I work collaboratively with my clients to ensure you receive the quality care you deserve. When we combine our strengths, we can create a well-balanced therapeutic relationship.
My experience includes working with clients diagnosed with ASD, Personality Disorders, ADHD, DMDD, ODD, Bipolar Disorder, BPD, Depression, PTSD and Anxiety.
Not currently able to accept new clients. I firmly believe in holistic wellness and cater my practice towards helping my clients to achieve their goals. Therapy is only effective when it meets your needs and caters towards you as your own unique self. Therapy is also an expenditure when it comes to time, money and energy. I work collaboratively with my clients to ensure you receive the quality care you deserve. When we combine our strengths, we can create a well-balanced therapeutic relationship.
(667) 217-2370 View (667) 217-2370
Photo of Cara Baltimore, LCSW-C, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cara Baltimore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21208  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (MD, VA, & DC) specializing in children, adolescents, and families. I have a passion for helping others reach their highest self and offer a safe, comfortable, and culturally competent atmosphere. I have experience working with individuals who struggle with trauma, addiction, depression, anxiety, mood, psychosis, adjustment, and personality disorders. I also have worked with individuals impacted by co-occurring conditions. I also have extensive knowledge of MD Behavioral Health Administration (BHA), Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF), and The Joint Commission.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (MD, VA, & DC) specializing in children, adolescents, and families. I have a passion for helping others reach their highest self and offer a safe, comfortable, and culturally competent atmosphere. I have experience working with individuals who struggle with trauma, addiction, depression, anxiety, mood, psychosis, adjustment, and personality disorders. I also have worked with individuals impacted by co-occurring conditions. I also have extensive knowledge of MD Behavioral Health Administration (BHA), Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF), and The Joint Commission.
(443) 218-9647 View (443) 218-9647
Photo of Julie A Stukey, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie A Stukey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21230  (Online Only)
I work supportively and collaboratively with my clients to create a warm, inviting atmosphere that allows us to work towards your goals together. I work with adolescents, young adults, and adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, oppositional defiant disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, school challenges, family conflict, life transitions, disordered eating, grief and loss, substance abuse, sports performance concerns, personality disorders, and severe mental illness.
I work supportively and collaboratively with my clients to create a warm, inviting atmosphere that allows us to work towards your goals together. I work with adolescents, young adults, and adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, oppositional defiant disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, school challenges, family conflict, life transitions, disordered eating, grief and loss, substance abuse, sports performance concerns, personality disorders, and severe mental illness.
(443) 251-3992 View (443) 251-3992
Photo of Heidi Hanes, LCPC, LCADC, NCC
Heidi Hanes
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LCADC, NCC
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21214  (Online Only)
I am certified as a high conflict divorce consultant, providing coaching, skills and tools that serve to decrease overall distress from narcissistic abuse, navigate divorce, and manage custody or co-parenting issues.
Welcome! Congratulations on beginning therapy and taking a brave step toward creating the life you want to live! As your therapist, I will utilize integrated treatment approaches and "outside of the box" techniques to move at your pace and facilitate change to meet your goals. I strive to provide a caring environment and supportive emotional space in which to safely explore and heal personal issues. There is no such thing as too big or too small when it comes to your goals for health and wellness. I am specialized in the treatment of co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders, as well as trauma, grief and loss.
I am certified as a high conflict divorce consultant, providing coaching, skills and tools that serve to decrease overall distress from narcissistic abuse, navigate divorce, and manage custody or co-parenting issues.
Welcome! Congratulations on beginning therapy and taking a brave step toward creating the life you want to live! As your therapist, I will utilize integrated treatment approaches and "outside of the box" techniques to move at your pace and facilitate change to meet your goals. I strive to provide a caring environment and supportive emotional space in which to safely explore and heal personal issues. There is no such thing as too big or too small when it comes to your goals for health and wellness. I am specialized in the treatment of co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders, as well as trauma, grief and loss.
(667) 220-6681 View (667) 220-6681
Photo of Kathryn (Kat) Skalski, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathryn (Kat) Skalski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21218
Waitlist for new clients
My focus is with clients ages 16 and older, who struggle with mood and personality disorders, interpersonal issues, and difficult life transitions.
Everyone goes through difficult times in their life and sometimes asking for help can be scary! My goal is to help you navigate trying times in your life by processing difficult emotions and working toward goals that are important to you. I use a conversational, person-centered approach to therapy and believe that the therapeutic relationship is the most important piece of the therapeutic puzzle. If you're open to building an honest connection and willing to work hard, I am here to support you!
My focus is with clients ages 16 and older, who struggle with mood and personality disorders, interpersonal issues, and difficult life transitions.
Everyone goes through difficult times in their life and sometimes asking for help can be scary! My goal is to help you navigate trying times in your life by processing difficult emotions and working toward goals that are important to you. I use a conversational, person-centered approach to therapy and believe that the therapeutic relationship is the most important piece of the therapeutic puzzle. If you're open to building an honest connection and willing to work hard, I am here to support you!
(410) 337-7772 x6406 View (410) 337-7772 x6406
Photo of Zena White, LGPC, NCC, Counselor
Zena White
Counselor, LGPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21202  (Online Only)
I have clinical experience in the areas of codependency, mood and anxiety disorders, family conflict, narcissistic abuse, gender dysphoria, career changes, childhood trauma, and suicidal ideations.
Are you experiencing depression/anxiety symptoms? Experiencing difficulties with healthy communication in your relationships? Gender dysphoria or learning to accept a new identity? Desiring to progress but feeling stagnant in several areas in your life? Therapy is a relationship, and it is important to me that you feel seen, heard, and understood. I am empathetically direct, and I encourage my clients to express themselves in a way that feels authentic to them. We can create goals and explore past childhood trauma or issues that may impact who you are today. Therapy works best when we work together.
I have clinical experience in the areas of codependency, mood and anxiety disorders, family conflict, narcissistic abuse, gender dysphoria, career changes, childhood trauma, and suicidal ideations.
Are you experiencing depression/anxiety symptoms? Experiencing difficulties with healthy communication in your relationships? Gender dysphoria or learning to accept a new identity? Desiring to progress but feeling stagnant in several areas in your life? Therapy is a relationship, and it is important to me that you feel seen, heard, and understood. I am empathetically direct, and I encourage my clients to express themselves in a way that feels authentic to them. We can create goals and explore past childhood trauma or issues that may impact who you are today. Therapy works best when we work together.
(443) 720-7051 View (443) 720-7051
Photo of Nicole Twaalfhoven, LCPC-S, NCC, Counselor
Nicole Twaalfhoven
Counselor, LCPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21210  (Online Only)
Thank you for your interest in my profile! I work with clients who need support, a clearer understanding of themselves and their environment, and are ready for change. Clients struggling with depression, anxiety, self-esteem, PTSD, grief, schizophrenia, bipolar, and personality disorders, as well as relationships, career support, aging, and other daily life issues are great candidates for therapy with me. I see individual clients of any age (however under the age of 16, parent/caregiver collaboration is required), families, and couples. I offer a kind, supportive approach, with plenty structure and self-empowerment.
Thank you for your interest in my profile! I work with clients who need support, a clearer understanding of themselves and their environment, and are ready for change. Clients struggling with depression, anxiety, self-esteem, PTSD, grief, schizophrenia, bipolar, and personality disorders, as well as relationships, career support, aging, and other daily life issues are great candidates for therapy with me. I see individual clients of any age (however under the age of 16, parent/caregiver collaboration is required), families, and couples. I offer a kind, supportive approach, with plenty structure and self-empowerment.
(240) 201-2371 View (240) 201-2371
Photo of Caitlin Farha, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caitlin Farha
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21201  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience in the treatment of anxiety disorders, mood disorders, trauma disorders, personality disorders, and parent child relational problems.
Entering therapy can be overwhelming and intimidating. Whether it is your first time or 100th time, reflecting on painful experiences, facing your struggles, and sharing your life story with someone else is extremely difficult. I strive to provide a safe, collaborative, judgment-free environment for individuals to gain support in navigating life's ups and downs. I believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to be heard, validated, and reminded of their strengths, so that they feel empowered to achieve their personal goals.
I have extensive experience in the treatment of anxiety disorders, mood disorders, trauma disorders, personality disorders, and parent child relational problems.
Entering therapy can be overwhelming and intimidating. Whether it is your first time or 100th time, reflecting on painful experiences, facing your struggles, and sharing your life story with someone else is extremely difficult. I strive to provide a safe, collaborative, judgment-free environment for individuals to gain support in navigating life's ups and downs. I believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to be heard, validated, and reminded of their strengths, so that they feel empowered to achieve their personal goals.
(667) 222-5129 View (667) 222-5129
Photo of James W Brunson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
James W Brunson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21224  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have helped support those who have experienced many forms of trauma, mood/personality disorders, relationship conflict, issues pertaining to gender and sexuality.
First and foremost, my responsibility is to create an environment where you feel welcomed, safe and supported. In our sessions, you can expect that I will spend a lot of time engaging in stimulating conversation that helps me to learn who you are, how you show up in the world, and what path(s) to take in helping you achieve your goals and desirable outcomes. As your therapist, you can expect for me to be actively present with you, while encouraging and supporting you along the journey of creating the life you desire.
I have helped support those who have experienced many forms of trauma, mood/personality disorders, relationship conflict, issues pertaining to gender and sexuality.
First and foremost, my responsibility is to create an environment where you feel welcomed, safe and supported. In our sessions, you can expect that I will spend a lot of time engaging in stimulating conversation that helps me to learn who you are, how you show up in the world, and what path(s) to take in helping you achieve your goals and desirable outcomes. As your therapist, you can expect for me to be actively present with you, while encouraging and supporting you along the journey of creating the life you desire.
(202) 919-7794 View (202) 919-7794
Photo of Jess Dunn, PhD, Psychologist
Jess Dunn
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21230
----NO LONGER ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS. WILL UPDATE WHEN AVAILABLE.----- Maybe you are suffering, but are not sure why or have trouble speaking about it. Perhaps you've noticed that you keep repeating the same patterns, but are not certain how. I have worked for over eight years with people suffering from a range of symptoms, those who have suffered with trauma and loss, and those dealing with problems in loving and/or working. I enjoy working with those who identify as LGBT+, queer or kinky, with racial, ethnic, and religious minority individuals, and those from a range of socio-economic backgrounds.
----NO LONGER ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS. WILL UPDATE WHEN AVAILABLE.----- Maybe you are suffering, but are not sure why or have trouble speaking about it. Perhaps you've noticed that you keep repeating the same patterns, but are not certain how. I have worked for over eight years with people suffering from a range of symptoms, those who have suffered with trauma and loss, and those dealing with problems in loving and/or working. I enjoy working with those who identify as LGBT+, queer or kinky, with racial, ethnic, and religious minority individuals, and those from a range of socio-economic backgrounds.
(410) 983-3306 View (410) 983-3306
Photo of Miriam F. Godfrey, LCSW-C, MSW, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Miriam F. Godfrey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21210  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Therapy can be a powerful tool to help people who have been struggling with anxiety, depression, and dissatisfaction. These struggles may have been recent, or they may reflect traumatic experiences or parts of our lives that have been problematic for many years. I work with adults of all ages--individuals and couples--to help them understand what has brought them to this point in their lives.
Therapy can be a powerful tool to help people who have been struggling with anxiety, depression, and dissatisfaction. These struggles may have been recent, or they may reflect traumatic experiences or parts of our lives that have been problematic for many years. I work with adults of all ages--individuals and couples--to help them understand what has brought them to this point in their lives.
(301) 684-5204 View (301) 684-5204
Photo of James M Ryan, LCPC, Counselor
James M Ryan
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21210
I've been working in the behavioral health field for over 10 years and enjoy helping people learn how their minds work. Throughout my career, I've worked with adolescents and adults of all ages, individuals, couples and families. I offer psychodynamic psychotherapy. My counseling philosophy is rooted in existential and spiritual traditions with particular emphasis on the inherent human need for meaningful connection in life. From this perspective, the ultimate goal of therapy is to optimize our connection to ourselves, others, and a meaningful spiritual life.
I've been working in the behavioral health field for over 10 years and enjoy helping people learn how their minds work. Throughout my career, I've worked with adolescents and adults of all ages, individuals, couples and families. I offer psychodynamic psychotherapy. My counseling philosophy is rooted in existential and spiritual traditions with particular emphasis on the inherent human need for meaningful connection in life. From this perspective, the ultimate goal of therapy is to optimize our connection to ourselves, others, and a meaningful spiritual life.
(410) 469-7498 View (410) 469-7498
Photo of Marilyn L Brooks, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marilyn L Brooks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21208
I am a compassionate therapist with extensive knowledge and experience in mental health and substance abuse management through using a wide range of treatment modalities. My clients range from ages 18 to 65 years with a wide range of mental health concerns. I believe in a positive, supportive approach in working with each individual client to develop their own unique treatment goals for the best possible outcome.
I am a compassionate therapist with extensive knowledge and experience in mental health and substance abuse management through using a wide range of treatment modalities. My clients range from ages 18 to 65 years with a wide range of mental health concerns. I believe in a positive, supportive approach in working with each individual client to develop their own unique treatment goals for the best possible outcome.
(410) 846-4943 View (410) 846-4943
Photo of Alana Prato-Shein, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alana Prato-Shein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21204
I work with clients to develop deeper insights into thought and behavior patterns and to help them find strategies to improve their relationships. My passion lies in helping individuals manage their mental health and helping couples manage mental health struggles, gender transitions, and polyamory. In Towson, I work with my four-legged partner, a samoyed therapy dog named Eir, who provides comfort and support and takes an active role in play therapy with our younger clients. In Bel Air, I work with horses of Bay Meadow Farm to provide equine-assisted psychotherapy.
I work with clients to develop deeper insights into thought and behavior patterns and to help them find strategies to improve their relationships. My passion lies in helping individuals manage their mental health and helping couples manage mental health struggles, gender transitions, and polyamory. In Towson, I work with my four-legged partner, a samoyed therapy dog named Eir, who provides comfort and support and takes an active role in play therapy with our younger clients. In Bel Air, I work with horses of Bay Meadow Farm to provide equine-assisted psychotherapy.
(443) 727-1055 View (443) 727-1055
Photo of Kate Gerwin, MS, LCPC
Kate Gerwin
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21211
Whether it is a codependent relationship, healing from trauma, a major illness, the loss of a loved one or you're not quite sure what "it" is yet, I can support you in gaining a deeper sense of wholeness and well-being. My starting point for all of my work is simple: you matter. Your story matters, your experience matters, your desire to heal, grow, and thrive matters. In all of our lives there are times where we need help making sense of our stories and experiences and I am here to journey with you in that process. I look forward to connecting with you!
Whether it is a codependent relationship, healing from trauma, a major illness, the loss of a loved one or you're not quite sure what "it" is yet, I can support you in gaining a deeper sense of wholeness and well-being. My starting point for all of my work is simple: you matter. Your story matters, your experience matters, your desire to heal, grow, and thrive matters. In all of our lives there are times where we need help making sense of our stories and experiences and I am here to journey with you in that process. I look forward to connecting with you!
(703) 991-2421 View (703) 991-2421
Photo of Mary Tia Williams, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Tia Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21224  (Online Only)
Greetings! Welcome to my page. If you are here it means that you are on the path to being the best version of you. Have difficulty with relationships/communication skills? Do you feel misunderstood by others? Is it difficult to relax even when you are exhausted? Do you feel overwhelmed, lost, confused, or just unsure of yourself at times? Do you experience negative thoughts (or actions) that you find difficult expressing to others? Flashbacks of difficult memories? I am here to travel a path to wellness with you. Here you will find a safe, confidential, non-judgmental place to unpack.
Greetings! Welcome to my page. If you are here it means that you are on the path to being the best version of you. Have difficulty with relationships/communication skills? Do you feel misunderstood by others? Is it difficult to relax even when you are exhausted? Do you feel overwhelmed, lost, confused, or just unsure of yourself at times? Do you experience negative thoughts (or actions) that you find difficult expressing to others? Flashbacks of difficult memories? I am here to travel a path to wellness with you. Here you will find a safe, confidential, non-judgmental place to unpack.
(667) 222-2593 View (667) 222-2593
Photo of Mark Huffman, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mark Huffman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21212  (Online Only)
The hurts of the past are making it harder and harder to function let alone find happiness. The present has lost meaning and things you used to love no longer satisfy. You fear your best days are behind you. You long for something else, something more but don't know what it is or how to get there. You feel you will never measure up. You fear you will never be enough.
The hurts of the past are making it harder and harder to function let alone find happiness. The present has lost meaning and things you used to love no longer satisfy. You fear your best days are behind you. You long for something else, something more but don't know what it is or how to get there. You feel you will never measure up. You fear you will never be enough.
(443) 234-0025 View (443) 234-0025
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.