Personality Disorders Therapists in Minneapolis, MN

Photo of Holly McKinley - Paradigm Psychotherapy, PLLC, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Paradigm Psychotherapy, PLLC
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55417  (Online Only)
Holly McKinley, PsyD is a licensed clinical psychologist who utilizes evidence-based principles to help people feel effective in managing their mental health and build a life congruent with their values and goals. Dr. McKinley primarily utilizes cognitive-behavioral and mindfulness-based therapies to build treatments tailored to each person’s needs. She specializes in treatment of serious mental health conditions, including psychosis spectrum disorders, mood disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and personality disorders. In addition, she specializes in providing gender-affirming care to TGD individuals.
Holly McKinley, PsyD is a licensed clinical psychologist who utilizes evidence-based principles to help people feel effective in managing their mental health and build a life congruent with their values and goals. Dr. McKinley primarily utilizes cognitive-behavioral and mindfulness-based therapies to build treatments tailored to each person’s needs. She specializes in treatment of serious mental health conditions, including psychosis spectrum disorders, mood disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and personality disorders. In addition, she specializes in providing gender-affirming care to TGD individuals.
(612) 887-9454 View (612) 887-9454
Photo of Taryn Ignaszewski, LICSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Taryn Ignaszewski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55441
I have significant experience facilitating Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) for adults living with personality disorders as well as adolescents struggling with mood disorders and self-harm behaviors. I enjoy working with adolescents to effectively manage depression and anxiety symptoms, irritability, reactivity, relational stressors, communication issues, grief and loss, and self-esteem issues. I also like teaching skills and strategies to their parents and caregivers to they can feel resourced when supporting their young loved one outside of therapy.
I have significant experience facilitating Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) for adults living with personality disorders as well as adolescents struggling with mood disorders and self-harm behaviors. I enjoy working with adolescents to effectively manage depression and anxiety symptoms, irritability, reactivity, relational stressors, communication issues, grief and loss, and self-esteem issues. I also like teaching skills and strategies to their parents and caregivers to they can feel resourced when supporting their young loved one outside of therapy.
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Photo of Kaila Park, MA, LPCC, LADC, Counselor
Kaila Park
Counselor, MA, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55416
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience applying Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) in group and individual settings working with clients who struggle with addiction, mood disorders, and personality disorders.
Life can seem overwhelming at times which may lead to feelings of loneliness, pain, and fear. I work with clients and help them to be mindful in the present moment, utilize healthy coping skills during times of distress, regulate emotions, and teach individuals how to build and maintain healthy relationships with themselves and others.
I have experience applying Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) in group and individual settings working with clients who struggle with addiction, mood disorders, and personality disorders.
Life can seem overwhelming at times which may lead to feelings of loneliness, pain, and fear. I work with clients and help them to be mindful in the present moment, utilize healthy coping skills during times of distress, regulate emotions, and teach individuals how to build and maintain healthy relationships with themselves and others.
(651) 376-3687 View (651) 376-3687
Photo of Heather Smith, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55403
I enjoy working with a diverse population of people dealing with depression, anxiety and fears, personality disorders, grief and relationship problems.
So often in life we think the key to finding happiness exists in something outside of ourselves. We change jobs, partners, friends and cities only to find ourselves exactly as we were, living with the same problems and patterns, and ultimately in the same self-imposed prisons. As children, we intuitively develop adaptive solutions to maladaptive situations that enable us to protect our hearts and minds. Unbeknownst to our consciousness, these self-deceptions no longer protect us, but in fact compromise our capacity for growth.
I enjoy working with a diverse population of people dealing with depression, anxiety and fears, personality disorders, grief and relationship problems.
So often in life we think the key to finding happiness exists in something outside of ourselves. We change jobs, partners, friends and cities only to find ourselves exactly as we were, living with the same problems and patterns, and ultimately in the same self-imposed prisons. As children, we intuitively develop adaptive solutions to maladaptive situations that enable us to protect our hearts and minds. Unbeknownst to our consciousness, these self-deceptions no longer protect us, but in fact compromise our capacity for growth.
(612) 223-7680 View (612) 223-7680
Photo of Anders Jader, MA, LGSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Anders Jader
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LGSW
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55416
I have experience working with a wide range of challenges such as anxiety, depression, personality disorders, addiction, psychosis, and trauma.
Therapy is a space that should welcome the full depth of our human experience, rather than just focusing on a collection of symptoms. I offer a space for you to explore and better understand the whole spectrum of your experience: ranging from your greatest strengths and joys to your greatest challenges and pains. From a place of safety and warmth, we can begin to meet whatever it is that needs to be said, felt, expressed, or understood within you.
I have experience working with a wide range of challenges such as anxiety, depression, personality disorders, addiction, psychosis, and trauma.
Therapy is a space that should welcome the full depth of our human experience, rather than just focusing on a collection of symptoms. I offer a space for you to explore and better understand the whole spectrum of your experience: ranging from your greatest strengths and joys to your greatest challenges and pains. From a place of safety and warmth, we can begin to meet whatever it is that needs to be said, felt, expressed, or understood within you.
(612) 688-3111 View (612) 688-3111
Photo of Nicholas Bennett, MSW, LGSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Nicholas Bennett
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55415
My experience spans a broad spectrum of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia/schizoaffective disorder, personality disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorder (Levels 1 and 2), ADHD, PTSD, grief, addiction, and LGBTQIA+ issues, among others.
Life can often feel overwhelming and exhausting, with relentless pressures and uncertainties leading to mental, emotional, and physical strain. Having personally faced homelessness, addiction, and redemption, I understand these struggles deeply and am committed to guiding others from despair to healing and renewal. As a therapist, I bring a unique perspective shaped by my journey and 13 years of sobriety. I believe in keeping things real and value honest, direct communication. My approach is grounded in empathy, respect, and a commitment to helping you find your path forward. I work with individuals 13+, couples and families.
My experience spans a broad spectrum of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia/schizoaffective disorder, personality disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorder (Levels 1 and 2), ADHD, PTSD, grief, addiction, and LGBTQIA+ issues, among others.
Life can often feel overwhelming and exhausting, with relentless pressures and uncertainties leading to mental, emotional, and physical strain. Having personally faced homelessness, addiction, and redemption, I understand these struggles deeply and am committed to guiding others from despair to healing and renewal. As a therapist, I bring a unique perspective shaped by my journey and 13 years of sobriety. I believe in keeping things real and value honest, direct communication. My approach is grounded in empathy, respect, and a commitment to helping you find your path forward. I work with individuals 13+, couples and families.
(651) 467-4015 View (651) 467-4015
Photo of Bridget McGuinness - City of Lakes Counseling LLC, MPS, LPCC, LADC
City of Lakes Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MPS, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55419  (Online Only)
Bridget is a Board Clinical Supervisor and Psychotherapist with her LPCC and LADC. Her work experience includes, teens and pre-teens, adult co-occurring populations, such as Severe and Persistent Mental Illness (SPMI), severe substance use, personality disorders, and court ordered and Drug Court clients. She has worked within inpatient, intensive outpatient, aftercare settings and now private practice. Ideal future clients include anyone identifying they would like and benefit from extra support in their lives. GLBTQIA and BIPOC clients are especially encouraged to connect for services.
Bridget is a Board Clinical Supervisor and Psychotherapist with her LPCC and LADC. Her work experience includes, teens and pre-teens, adult co-occurring populations, such as Severe and Persistent Mental Illness (SPMI), severe substance use, personality disorders, and court ordered and Drug Court clients. She has worked within inpatient, intensive outpatient, aftercare settings and now private practice. Ideal future clients include anyone identifying they would like and benefit from extra support in their lives. GLBTQIA and BIPOC clients are especially encouraged to connect for services.
(651) 564-9279 View (651) 564-9279
Photo of Martha Sorenson, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Martha Sorenson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55407
My work focuses on healing from complex trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use, personality disorders, and life transitions.
I believe it takes courage to begin the process of change. With that spirit, I try to embody the African Proverb: “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” I believe we can all heal, change and grow, particularly when we have support and love in the process. I feel deeply honored to walk arm in arm in therapy with the clients I see. In both my therapeutic work and personally, I value humor, compassion, and sincerity. The therapist you choose is someone whom you’ve entrusted to build a safe and healing relationship.
My work focuses on healing from complex trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use, personality disorders, and life transitions.
I believe it takes courage to begin the process of change. With that spirit, I try to embody the African Proverb: “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” I believe we can all heal, change and grow, particularly when we have support and love in the process. I feel deeply honored to walk arm in arm in therapy with the clients I see. In both my therapeutic work and personally, I value humor, compassion, and sincerity. The therapist you choose is someone whom you’ve entrusted to build a safe and healing relationship.
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Photo of Rylee A Rae, MS, LPCC, Counselor
Rylee A Rae
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55429  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I currently work with individuals, partners, and families. My area of passion and expertise is gender and sexuality. I also view therapy and self-care as an act of resistance and believe it can help individuals with marginalized identities cope with minority stress and systemic oppression. I am currently seeing clients virtually if you live in MN. I work with almost all mental health diagnoses including anxiety, depression, panic disorders, PTSD/CPTSD, bipolar, personality disorders, DID, and schizophrenia/delusional disorders. I also have specialized experience in substance use and eating disorders.
I currently work with individuals, partners, and families. My area of passion and expertise is gender and sexuality. I also view therapy and self-care as an act of resistance and believe it can help individuals with marginalized identities cope with minority stress and systemic oppression. I am currently seeing clients virtually if you live in MN. I work with almost all mental health diagnoses including anxiety, depression, panic disorders, PTSD/CPTSD, bipolar, personality disorders, DID, and schizophrenia/delusional disorders. I also have specialized experience in substance use and eating disorders.
(929) 888-7267 View (929) 888-7267
Photo of Nora Gyarfas, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Nora Gyarfas
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55407
I specialize in pregnancy and postpartum issues, grief and loss, immigration, relationship issues, and developmental trauma (formerly referred to as personality disorders).
I welcome the unfiltered essence of You. I enjoy working with couples, polycules, and families. As an immigrant, I am passionate about issues regarding ambiguous loss and intergenerational trauma. I practice through a non-pathologizing lens that respects the social and environmental context of your experience. Using Narrative, Cognitive Behavioral, and Attachment theories, I work collaboratively with your past and explore how it informs your present. Together, we can take inventory of ideologies you want to keep, and shed those that were passed down to you without your consent.
I specialize in pregnancy and postpartum issues, grief and loss, immigration, relationship issues, and developmental trauma (formerly referred to as personality disorders).
I welcome the unfiltered essence of You. I enjoy working with couples, polycules, and families. As an immigrant, I am passionate about issues regarding ambiguous loss and intergenerational trauma. I practice through a non-pathologizing lens that respects the social and environmental context of your experience. Using Narrative, Cognitive Behavioral, and Attachment theories, I work collaboratively with your past and explore how it informs your present. Together, we can take inventory of ideologies you want to keep, and shed those that were passed down to you without your consent.
(612) 324-0863 View (612) 324-0863
Photo of Justine Uran, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Justine Uran
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55419
Now Accepting New Clients! Hope, insight, validation, and change are things I strive to provide the individuals that I work with. With over 15 years of experience as a therapist working with adults (18+) who experience PTSD, eating disorder, personality disorders and mood disorders, I believe it is crucial to create a safe, non-judgmental space to practice therapy. I approach therapy from a client centered approach to build a solid, therapeutic relationship and practice from a trauma-informed perspective.
Now Accepting New Clients! Hope, insight, validation, and change are things I strive to provide the individuals that I work with. With over 15 years of experience as a therapist working with adults (18+) who experience PTSD, eating disorder, personality disorders and mood disorders, I believe it is crucial to create a safe, non-judgmental space to practice therapy. I approach therapy from a client centered approach to build a solid, therapeutic relationship and practice from a trauma-informed perspective.
(612) 439-3776 View (612) 439-3776
Photo of Bethany Grace Kepler, ATR, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Bethany Grace Kepler
Pre-Licensed Professional, ATR, MA
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55406
Bethany is deeply committed to social equality and actively tries to establish an inclusive, safe environment for all people, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, political affiliation, race, ethnicity, religious or spiritual origin, or other factors. Bethany particularly enjoys supporting & working with LGBTQ and transgender people of all ages. Bethany provides therapy for humans experiencing relationship conflict, anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief, schizophrenia, personality disorders, mood disorders, attachment trauma, survivors of complex trauma, & adjustment disorders.
Bethany is deeply committed to social equality and actively tries to establish an inclusive, safe environment for all people, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, political affiliation, race, ethnicity, religious or spiritual origin, or other factors. Bethany particularly enjoys supporting & working with LGBTQ and transgender people of all ages. Bethany provides therapy for humans experiencing relationship conflict, anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief, schizophrenia, personality disorders, mood disorders, attachment trauma, survivors of complex trauma, & adjustment disorders.
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Photo of Bolanle Oyesile, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Bolanle Oyesile
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55415  (Online Only)
Now Accepting New Clients! My area of expertise is centered around working with individuals with a history of mental health disorders such as anxiety, ADHD, depression, bipolar disorders, obsessive compulsive disorders, personality disorders, PTSD, schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. In addition, I have ample experience working with clients dealing with self-harm behaviors, suicidal ideations, chronic stress, family conflict, and low self-esteem. Clients who see me aim to develop coping and adaptive skills to manage life difficulties, resolve conflicts, heal traumatic experiences, and develop a healthier sense of self.
Now Accepting New Clients! My area of expertise is centered around working with individuals with a history of mental health disorders such as anxiety, ADHD, depression, bipolar disorders, obsessive compulsive disorders, personality disorders, PTSD, schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. In addition, I have ample experience working with clients dealing with self-harm behaviors, suicidal ideations, chronic stress, family conflict, and low self-esteem. Clients who see me aim to develop coping and adaptive skills to manage life difficulties, resolve conflicts, heal traumatic experiences, and develop a healthier sense of self.
(612) 808-5384 View (612) 808-5384
Photo of Stacie Peckels, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Stacie Peckels
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55415
Now Accepting New Clients! Life can be challenging and even traumatic, but it can also be beautiful and fulfilling. My goal is to provide a judgment-free space where you can heal and move toward that place of fulfillment. I specialize in Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Personality Disorders, PTSD, Schizophrenia, Relationships, Family Conflict, and significant life events such as Divorce and Grief/Loss.
Now Accepting New Clients! Life can be challenging and even traumatic, but it can also be beautiful and fulfilling. My goal is to provide a judgment-free space where you can heal and move toward that place of fulfillment. I specialize in Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Personality Disorders, PTSD, Schizophrenia, Relationships, Family Conflict, and significant life events such as Divorce and Grief/Loss.
(612) 324-5264 View (612) 324-5264
Photo of Bruce E Fischer, PhD, LP, LMFT, Psychologist
Bruce E Fischer
Psychologist, PhD, LP, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55408  (Online Only)
I work with all types of addictions, depression, anxiety, personality disorders and grief.
I've been working with adults and teens for over 47 years. My approach is empathic, direct, and thoughtful. Given I have a wide background in my training, I adapt my therapeutic approach to your needs. I find that effective therapy is a collaborative approach where we work together to understand your concerns, their origins and most importantly what can be done to bring about both the internal and behavioral changes that will be beneficial to you. My goal in therapy is to help integrate your shame and vulnerabilities into a healthy identity grounded in self-esteem and pride.
I work with all types of addictions, depression, anxiety, personality disorders and grief.
I've been working with adults and teens for over 47 years. My approach is empathic, direct, and thoughtful. Given I have a wide background in my training, I adapt my therapeutic approach to your needs. I find that effective therapy is a collaborative approach where we work together to understand your concerns, their origins and most importantly what can be done to bring about both the internal and behavioral changes that will be beneficial to you. My goal in therapy is to help integrate your shame and vulnerabilities into a healthy identity grounded in self-esteem and pride.
(612) 223-7345 View (612) 223-7345
Photo of Balfour Laura - Balfour Therapy, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Balfour Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55410
Hi! I’m an inter-section theorist. I’m a mixed race person. I come from a social justice lens and work from a diversity, race, cultural and also non-binary foundation. I work with all ages, individuals, families and couples. I treat anxiety & depression, behavior/defiance issues, offer parenting support, holistic health, nutrition planning, eating disorders, chemical dependency, intelligence/gifted/sensitivity issues, and personality disorders. I have experience in attachment/adoption and autism in women. I have an efficient, compassionate approach and sense of humor. I’m passionate and interested in your story.
Hi! I’m an inter-section theorist. I’m a mixed race person. I come from a social justice lens and work from a diversity, race, cultural and also non-binary foundation. I work with all ages, individuals, families and couples. I treat anxiety & depression, behavior/defiance issues, offer parenting support, holistic health, nutrition planning, eating disorders, chemical dependency, intelligence/gifted/sensitivity issues, and personality disorders. I have experience in attachment/adoption and autism in women. I have an efficient, compassionate approach and sense of humor. I’m passionate and interested in your story.
(612) 255-9037 View (612) 255-9037
Photo of Elizabeth Volkman, MA, LPCC, LADC, Counselor
Elizabeth Volkman
Counselor, MA, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55406
I believe that understanding, accepting, and committing to our values is an integral part of recovery and creating a meaningful life. I aim to provide tools and support that allow individuals to resolve their past and thrive in the present. My professional experience and training is focused on providing advocacy and guidance for adults seeking management and relief from PTSD, substance use concerns, mood and anxiety disorders, and personality disorders.
I believe that understanding, accepting, and committing to our values is an integral part of recovery and creating a meaningful life. I aim to provide tools and support that allow individuals to resolve their past and thrive in the present. My professional experience and training is focused on providing advocacy and guidance for adults seeking management and relief from PTSD, substance use concerns, mood and anxiety disorders, and personality disorders.
(612) 441-2828 View (612) 441-2828
Photo of Andrea J Steele, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea J Steele
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55403  (Online Only)
I am particularly interested in helping people address the following areas: depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship difficulties, stage of life issues, chemical dependency, personality disorders, and issues related to one's family of origin.
Entering therapy is a bold, brave commitment to examining your life as it is and creating the life you choose to live. As a therapist I use a variety of modalities to assist you in reaching your particular goals. Cognitive behavioral therapies are effective for treating a variety of issues and insight-oriented therapies are better suited for other issues. You and I will map the therapy course together, collaboratively. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is extremely important and strive to create a warm, approachable and genuine therapeutic alliance.
I am particularly interested in helping people address the following areas: depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship difficulties, stage of life issues, chemical dependency, personality disorders, and issues related to one's family of origin.
Entering therapy is a bold, brave commitment to examining your life as it is and creating the life you choose to live. As a therapist I use a variety of modalities to assist you in reaching your particular goals. Cognitive behavioral therapies are effective for treating a variety of issues and insight-oriented therapies are better suited for other issues. You and I will map the therapy course together, collaboratively. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is extremely important and strive to create a warm, approachable and genuine therapeutic alliance.
(952) 260-1536 View (952) 260-1536
Photo of Terry M Post, MS, LPCC, LADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Terry M Post
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55408
I help people overcome life’s challenges to grow and find their desired happiness. I have a long history of working with those struggling with addiction as well as concerns related to sex and intimacy. From a mental health perspective, I work with clients who have anxiety, depression, trauma, intimacy, relationship problems, and some personality disorders. I believe that our mental health, compulsive behaviors, relationships, sex, and intimacy all interact and influence one another to create who and how we show up today. I have an extensive history of working with individuals in the LGBT+ community and specialize in treating Chemsex
I help people overcome life’s challenges to grow and find their desired happiness. I have a long history of working with those struggling with addiction as well as concerns related to sex and intimacy. From a mental health perspective, I work with clients who have anxiety, depression, trauma, intimacy, relationship problems, and some personality disorders. I believe that our mental health, compulsive behaviors, relationships, sex, and intimacy all interact and influence one another to create who and how we show up today. I have an extensive history of working with individuals in the LGBT+ community and specialize in treating Chemsex
(952) 213-6554 View (952) 213-6554
Photo of Dr. Tanya Holthus, PsyD, LP, RPT, SEP, Psychologist
Dr. Tanya Holthus
Psychologist, PsyD, LP, RPT, SEP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55408
Waitlist for new clients
Hi. I know you're ready for this. I see most everyone for most everything. I enjoy working with a wide variety of clients and specialize in healing trauma and helping people with many types of issues, including post-traumatic stress, attachment/connection, sexual/physical/emotional abuse, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. I am most passionate about helping people overcome relationships involving narcissistic abuse and strengthening parent-child relationships. I also have a special place in my heart for people suffering with fertility issues.
Hi. I know you're ready for this. I see most everyone for most everything. I enjoy working with a wide variety of clients and specialize in healing trauma and helping people with many types of issues, including post-traumatic stress, attachment/connection, sexual/physical/emotional abuse, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. I am most passionate about helping people overcome relationships involving narcissistic abuse and strengthening parent-child relationships. I also have a special place in my heart for people suffering with fertility issues.
(952) 260-9896 View (952) 260-9896
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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.