Personality Disorders Therapists in San Francisco, CA

Photo of Jacqueline Gravell-O’Kane, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jacqueline Gravell-O’Kane
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94105  (Online Only)
You are already resilient and brave, let us use those characteristics to define the kind of life you have always wanted to live. The process to find and live the life you want can be difficult, I am here to help. Through our work together we will identify the obstacles in your path and design a treatment plan and goals to tackle them. I have worked with a wide range of diagnoses and clinical issues including depression, anxiety, personality disorders, mood disorders, couples counseling, addiction issues, codependency, trauma, family conflict, and psychosis.
You are already resilient and brave, let us use those characteristics to define the kind of life you have always wanted to live. The process to find and live the life you want can be difficult, I am here to help. Through our work together we will identify the obstacles in your path and design a treatment plan and goals to tackle them. I have worked with a wide range of diagnoses and clinical issues including depression, anxiety, personality disorders, mood disorders, couples counseling, addiction issues, codependency, trauma, family conflict, and psychosis.
(415) 965-5442 View (415) 965-5442
Photo of Samuel Khanukayev, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Samuel Khanukayev
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102
Most of my clinical experience focused on treating: complex trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, personality disorders, anxiety, and depression.
I strive to facilitate a reflective and explorative environment where the unbearable can be held and truth can be spoken. Multicultural and bilingual elements of my identity, and a history of enduring ethnic discrimination and immigration, significantly inform how I listen to my clients, think through trauma and fragmentation with them. Unconscious repetitions of aversion, clinging, and reenactments of familiar/familial ways of being bind us in suffering. Through psychotherapy, rigid frames of being can be deconstructed and psychological space can be reclaimed for creativity, desire and becoming.
Most of my clinical experience focused on treating: complex trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, personality disorders, anxiety, and depression.
I strive to facilitate a reflective and explorative environment where the unbearable can be held and truth can be spoken. Multicultural and bilingual elements of my identity, and a history of enduring ethnic discrimination and immigration, significantly inform how I listen to my clients, think through trauma and fragmentation with them. Unconscious repetitions of aversion, clinging, and reenactments of familiar/familial ways of being bind us in suffering. Through psychotherapy, rigid frames of being can be deconstructed and psychological space can be reclaimed for creativity, desire and becoming.
(510) 982-6497 View (510) 982-6497
Photo of Gaelle Carey, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gaelle Carey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94121  (Online Only)
Welcome! My name is Gaëlle Carey and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have worked with all types of people, from CEOs to stay-at-home parents. My ideal client is anyone who is interested in empowering their life. I am a direct person and like to get right down to business, but I also genuinely care about my clients' success. I have experience providing clinical assessment and therapeutic care to adolescents and adults seeking help with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use disorders, anger management, Post-traumatic stress disorder, Personality Disorders, ADHD management, and LGBTQ+ issues.
Welcome! My name is Gaëlle Carey and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have worked with all types of people, from CEOs to stay-at-home parents. My ideal client is anyone who is interested in empowering their life. I am a direct person and like to get right down to business, but I also genuinely care about my clients' success. I have experience providing clinical assessment and therapeutic care to adolescents and adults seeking help with depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use disorders, anger management, Post-traumatic stress disorder, Personality Disorders, ADHD management, and LGBTQ+ issues.
(619) 329-8438 View (619) 329-8438
Photo of Kelly Albrecht, ASW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kelly Albrecht
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
With expertise in substance use disorder, ADHD, bipolar and personality disorders, my holistic approach to therapy prioritizes safety and healing, with trauma-informed care.
Are you struggling to process depression, anxiety, relationship/family issues, and trauma? These emotional ruptures can cause major disruptions in our lives. The work to process these types of life events is multifaceted, and I can help you identify your feelings and potential relational patterns, build tolerance and acceptance around challenging ones, and set meaningful goals. In order to do so, I utilize various therapeutic approaches consisting of ACT, CBT, and Problem Solving Therapy and somatic interventions.
With expertise in substance use disorder, ADHD, bipolar and personality disorders, my holistic approach to therapy prioritizes safety and healing, with trauma-informed care.
Are you struggling to process depression, anxiety, relationship/family issues, and trauma? These emotional ruptures can cause major disruptions in our lives. The work to process these types of life events is multifaceted, and I can help you identify your feelings and potential relational patterns, build tolerance and acceptance around challenging ones, and set meaningful goals. In order to do so, I utilize various therapeutic approaches consisting of ACT, CBT, and Problem Solving Therapy and somatic interventions.
(415) 275-6276 View (415) 275-6276
Photo of Jessica McGowen, MS, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jessica McGowen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104  (Online Only)
If you’re in or have been in a narcissistic relationship, I understand exactly what you have experienced.
I have 20 years of experience but I don't believe that says anything unless I can relate, connect and feel with my clients. I can be professional when necessary but I am better at just being real. I am not everyones therapist and I am okay with it. I engage in the conversation with respect and authenticity. I'm direct with the intention to help and shift the issues in a place for change . I am good at what I do and passionate about helping people through pain.
If you’re in or have been in a narcissistic relationship, I understand exactly what you have experienced.
I have 20 years of experience but I don't believe that says anything unless I can relate, connect and feel with my clients. I can be professional when necessary but I am better at just being real. I am not everyones therapist and I am okay with it. I engage in the conversation with respect and authenticity. I'm direct with the intention to help and shift the issues in a place for change . I am good at what I do and passionate about helping people through pain.
(415) 529-8891 View (415) 529-8891
Photo of Lisa Abdilova Andresen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Abdilova Andresen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94107
Specialties include the links between trauma & achievement, narcissistic relationships, and family estrangement.
Even the most successful people could benefit from support sometimes. Are you getting sick of what's bothering you? Feeling unlike yourself, beating yourself up, disappointed in your relationships, or frustrated with your family? Learn how to redirect unproductive thoughts. What if therapy could help you unwind and have fun — even when you're stressed? It's okay to set boundaries, prioritize your values, and make space to clarify what you want and need to be happy. Together, we can problem-solve what doesn't seem right in your job, life, or business, and develop personalized tools and strategies to help you reach your goals.
Specialties include the links between trauma & achievement, narcissistic relationships, and family estrangement.
Even the most successful people could benefit from support sometimes. Are you getting sick of what's bothering you? Feeling unlike yourself, beating yourself up, disappointed in your relationships, or frustrated with your family? Learn how to redirect unproductive thoughts. What if therapy could help you unwind and have fun — even when you're stressed? It's okay to set boundaries, prioritize your values, and make space to clarify what you want and need to be happy. Together, we can problem-solve what doesn't seem right in your job, life, or business, and develop personalized tools and strategies to help you reach your goals.
(628) 200-3816 View (628) 200-3816
Photo of Jennifer Fernandez - California Center for Change, PhD, Psychologist
California Center for Change
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94134  (Online Only)
How we can help: reducing the negative consequences of substance use; treating co-occurring disorders such as depression, grief, anxiety, trauma, or personality disorders; teaching mindfulness skills to manage the urge for immediate gratification; and working with friends and families to help them understand addiction and address codependency.
If previous attempts to stop substance misuse haven’t been successful, or if you’re interested in learning how to moderate rather than abstain, we invite you to contact us for a free phone consultation. We use a compassionate, evidence-based approach to treat addiction, guided by the biopsychosocial model to help you understand the biological, emotional, and behavioral factors underlying substance use. Our therapeutic style is empathetic, non-judgmental, and direct, helping you gain a deep understanding of yourself. We are committed to creating a safe, confidential environment where you can comfortably explore your options.
How we can help: reducing the negative consequences of substance use; treating co-occurring disorders such as depression, grief, anxiety, trauma, or personality disorders; teaching mindfulness skills to manage the urge for immediate gratification; and working with friends and families to help them understand addiction and address codependency.
If previous attempts to stop substance misuse haven’t been successful, or if you’re interested in learning how to moderate rather than abstain, we invite you to contact us for a free phone consultation. We use a compassionate, evidence-based approach to treat addiction, guided by the biopsychosocial model to help you understand the biological, emotional, and behavioral factors underlying substance use. Our therapeutic style is empathetic, non-judgmental, and direct, helping you gain a deep understanding of yourself. We are committed to creating a safe, confidential environment where you can comfortably explore your options.
(415) 969-3982 View (415) 969-3982
Photo of Taylor Wikel, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Taylor Wikel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94105  (Online Only)
Coming to therapy can be a vulnerable experience, which is why I aim to provide a safe, supportive, empathetic and nonjudgmental environment. My professional background and experience applying Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) has given me a passion to work with individuals with severe mental illness and personality disorders.
Coming to therapy can be a vulnerable experience, which is why I aim to provide a safe, supportive, empathetic and nonjudgmental environment. My professional background and experience applying Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) has given me a passion to work with individuals with severe mental illness and personality disorders.
(415) 949-3187 View (415) 949-3187
Photo of Robynne Herron, LPCC
Robynne Herron
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
I have experience working with clients experiencing mental illness such as: depression, anxiety, PTSD, personality disorders, co-occurring disorders, substance use, Schizophrenia, BiPolar disorder, and ADHD.
Hello, I am Robynne (Robin üòâ) Herron. I am a Licensed Profession Clinical Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My approach is relaxed with a gratuitous use of humor. I favor existential and client-centered approaches. Typically, I work with clients that are focused on figuring out how to feel better; however, I have worked with many clients that weren't sure what feeling better would look like or that were stuck thinking it couldn't get better at all.
I have experience working with clients experiencing mental illness such as: depression, anxiety, PTSD, personality disorders, co-occurring disorders, substance use, Schizophrenia, BiPolar disorder, and ADHD.
Hello, I am Robynne (Robin üòâ) Herron. I am a Licensed Profession Clinical Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My approach is relaxed with a gratuitous use of humor. I favor existential and client-centered approaches. Typically, I work with clients that are focused on figuring out how to feel better; however, I have worked with many clients that weren't sure what feeling better would look like or that were stuck thinking it couldn't get better at all.
(415) 340-7922 View (415) 340-7922
Photo of James Milner, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
James Milner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94110  (Online Only)
For the past 15 years, I have been working with individuals, couples, and families helping with substance misuse disorder, trauma, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, personality disorders, and thoughts disorders.
My name is James Milner. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist from the San Francisco Bay Area. I have extensive training and experience in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). I believe in helping people live better lives.
For the past 15 years, I have been working with individuals, couples, and families helping with substance misuse disorder, trauma, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, personality disorders, and thoughts disorders.
My name is James Milner. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist from the San Francisco Bay Area. I have extensive training and experience in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). I believe in helping people live better lives.
(415) 895-9505 View (415) 895-9505
Photo of Jenifer Butera, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jenifer Butera
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94105  (Online Only)
My approach to therapy is client-centered, with mindful tending to each client's psychological space, exploring answers to problems, and discovering how to respond most effectively to changes. I am person-centered, trauma-informed, and strength-based in my approach, and I work with all mental health concerns in adults, especially with trauma, anxiety, work-related stress, disordered thinking, personality disorders, and depression.
My approach to therapy is client-centered, with mindful tending to each client's psychological space, exploring answers to problems, and discovering how to respond most effectively to changes. I am person-centered, trauma-informed, and strength-based in my approach, and I work with all mental health concerns in adults, especially with trauma, anxiety, work-related stress, disordered thinking, personality disorders, and depression.
(415) 322-3706 View (415) 322-3706
Photo of Dr. Karimah N Adisathomas - Bridges To Mental Wellness. Lic. In Ca. and Ga., EdD, LPCC/, MFT, MS
Bridges To Mental Wellness. Lic. In Ca. and Ga.
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, EdD, LPCC/, MFT, MS
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94112
Karimah AdisaThomas is a highly skilled and dedicated mental health professional with a wealth of experience in helping clients of all ages and backgrounds manage the challenges of life. As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, she is well-versed in a variety of evidence-based practices, including CBT, DBT, and mindfulness. She is particularly skilled in working with clients dealing with crisis and trauma, anxiety, coping skills, depression, emotional disturbance, life coaching, stress, and personality disorders. As a clinician, she begins by listening to her client's stories while providing a safe and supportive space.
Karimah AdisaThomas is a highly skilled and dedicated mental health professional with a wealth of experience in helping clients of all ages and backgrounds manage the challenges of life. As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, she is well-versed in a variety of evidence-based practices, including CBT, DBT, and mindfulness. She is particularly skilled in working with clients dealing with crisis and trauma, anxiety, coping skills, depression, emotional disturbance, life coaching, stress, and personality disorders. As a clinician, she begins by listening to her client's stories while providing a safe and supportive space.
(628) 209-5370 View (628) 209-5370
Photo of Kathlynn Gates, ASW
Kathlynn Gates
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
I have experience working with individuals who struggle with issues stemming from substance abuse, LGBTQIA+ issues, and personality disorders.
Are you experiencing challenges dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship/family issues, and trauma/PTSD? Due to these symptoms, we can be in too much emotional pain and feel too stuck to reframe our perceptions or to find solutions to our problems. Childhood or recent trauma can cause emotional distress that can be difficult to process. I am here to support you in working through unresolved trauma and guide you toward healing. Therefore, you can feel empowered, rejuvenated, and enthusiastic about life again.
I have experience working with individuals who struggle with issues stemming from substance abuse, LGBTQIA+ issues, and personality disorders.
Are you experiencing challenges dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship/family issues, and trauma/PTSD? Due to these symptoms, we can be in too much emotional pain and feel too stuck to reframe our perceptions or to find solutions to our problems. Childhood or recent trauma can cause emotional distress that can be difficult to process. I am here to support you in working through unresolved trauma and guide you toward healing. Therefore, you can feel empowered, rejuvenated, and enthusiastic about life again.
(415) 943-5956 View (415) 943-5956
Photo of Claudia Sinay-Mosias - Claudia Sinay-Mosias, Mft Online Psychotherapy, MA, MHS, LFMT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Claudia Sinay-Mosias, Mft Online Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MHS, LFMT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118
I specialize in treating survivors of narcissistic abuse, relationship issues, anxiety and depression. I am also very interested in what it means and how to become, a fully functioning human being, emotionally, mentally, physically and spiritually. In this world that has been accelerating at a pace beyond our expectations and sometimes our ability to cope,how do we find peace, happiness and fulfillment, or at least the absence of anxiety and depression? Locked within our own personal stories lie the answer to these questions. Whatever "pathology" you present with can be turned into a "path" toward healing.
I specialize in treating survivors of narcissistic abuse, relationship issues, anxiety and depression. I am also very interested in what it means and how to become, a fully functioning human being, emotionally, mentally, physically and spiritually. In this world that has been accelerating at a pace beyond our expectations and sometimes our ability to cope,how do we find peace, happiness and fulfillment, or at least the absence of anxiety and depression? Locked within our own personal stories lie the answer to these questions. Whatever "pathology" you present with can be turned into a "path" toward healing.
(628) 600-1629 View (628) 600-1629
Photo of Kristy Davis, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kristy Davis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109  (Online Only)
With over 20 years of experience in the mental health and social services fields, I have been able to support clients with a variety of challenges- including anxiety, depression, mood and personality disorders, addiction, loss and trauma.
I believe as individuals, we are constantly evolving and naturally with these changes, they can bring up feelings of uncertainty, resurfacing of past hurts and challenges in adapting- especially when the world and others tend to be changing at different speeds than we are. In these times of struggle it can be difficult asking for help from others so you should feel proud of yourself for taking this first step by looking for that support! My decision to become a therapist derived from my own journey with life's transitions along with my desire to continue to further meet my innate passion for helping others in their times of need.
With over 20 years of experience in the mental health and social services fields, I have been able to support clients with a variety of challenges- including anxiety, depression, mood and personality disorders, addiction, loss and trauma.
I believe as individuals, we are constantly evolving and naturally with these changes, they can bring up feelings of uncertainty, resurfacing of past hurts and challenges in adapting- especially when the world and others tend to be changing at different speeds than we are. In these times of struggle it can be difficult asking for help from others so you should feel proud of yourself for taking this first step by looking for that support! My decision to become a therapist derived from my own journey with life's transitions along with my desire to continue to further meet my innate passion for helping others in their times of need.
(341) 895-5681 View (341) 895-5681
Photo of Nate Hinerman, PhD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nate Hinerman
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118
I routinely treat depression and anxiety, addiction, trauma, PTSD, and a variety of personality disorders, in addition to grief and loss.
Nate Hinerman, PhD, LMFT, is Dean of Undergraduate Programs at Golden Gate University, San Francisco, where he is also a tenured Professor of Psychology, as well as the Chair of the Psychology Department. He is also on the faculty at the University of San Francisco, teaching in the Nursing School, and in the Religious Studies Department. He serves as Chair of the San Francisco End of Life Network, a community-based support and education group for hospice and palliative care professionals and patients, now in its 23rd year (www.sfeol.org).
I routinely treat depression and anxiety, addiction, trauma, PTSD, and a variety of personality disorders, in addition to grief and loss.
Nate Hinerman, PhD, LMFT, is Dean of Undergraduate Programs at Golden Gate University, San Francisco, where he is also a tenured Professor of Psychology, as well as the Chair of the Psychology Department. He is also on the faculty at the University of San Francisco, teaching in the Nursing School, and in the Religious Studies Department. He serves as Chair of the San Francisco End of Life Network, a community-based support and education group for hospice and palliative care professionals and patients, now in its 23rd year (www.sfeol.org).
(628) 215-8084 View (628) 215-8084
Photo of Evan Wassarman, PsyD, Psychologist
Evan Wassarman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
I work with adults to address issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar, relational difficulties, career and life transitions, personality disorders, psychotic disorders, substance use, and personal growth.
There is no one reason to enter therapy that is more meaningful or valid than any other. In my approach, all of your experiences matter and there are no wrong answers. I view each person as unique and multi-dimensional–not just a diagnosis or a set of symptoms. You and I will discuss and think together about your past, present, and future to gain a deeper understanding of how you experience the world. Through this process we can uncover thoughts and feelings you may not have realized you had, and help you to gain a new understanding of yourself and your relationships that improves your quality of life and sense of peace of mind.
I work with adults to address issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar, relational difficulties, career and life transitions, personality disorders, psychotic disorders, substance use, and personal growth.
There is no one reason to enter therapy that is more meaningful or valid than any other. In my approach, all of your experiences matter and there are no wrong answers. I view each person as unique and multi-dimensional–not just a diagnosis or a set of symptoms. You and I will discuss and think together about your past, present, and future to gain a deeper understanding of how you experience the world. Through this process we can uncover thoughts and feelings you may not have realized you had, and help you to gain a new understanding of yourself and your relationships that improves your quality of life and sense of peace of mind.
(415) 997-0929 View (415) 997-0929
Photo of Matt McKeithan, PsyD, MA, LPC-A, Psychologist
Matt McKeithan
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94121  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating those with various mental disorders and behavioral issues to include: ADHD, PTSD, Anxiety, and Personality Disorders. I utilize detailed Psychological Assessment, and empirically supported treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness. I am certified as a DBT practitioner and a life coach. Lastly, I integrate a holistic mindset into my practice, where emphasis is placed on gut/brain health, sleep quality, lifestyle, and diet.
I specialize in treating those with various mental disorders and behavioral issues to include: ADHD, PTSD, Anxiety, and Personality Disorders. I utilize detailed Psychological Assessment, and empirically supported treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness. I am certified as a DBT practitioner and a life coach. Lastly, I integrate a holistic mindset into my practice, where emphasis is placed on gut/brain health, sleep quality, lifestyle, and diet.
(628) 214-2794 View (628) 214-2794
Photo of Devon Hill, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Devon Hill
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94134  (Online Only)
As an associate therapist, I strive to help my clients rewrite their personal narratives and work to create a relationship built on understanding, compassion and trust. It’s my goal to help you better understand yourself, navigate your experiences and learn self-compassion. Join me and let’s rewrite your story together. My interests within the field of mental health include assisting those with anxiety and depression, eating disorders, grief and loss, and substance misuse. In particular, I specialize in helping clients with traumatic experiences, with a focus on helping survivors of narcissistic abuse.
As an associate therapist, I strive to help my clients rewrite their personal narratives and work to create a relationship built on understanding, compassion and trust. It’s my goal to help you better understand yourself, navigate your experiences and learn self-compassion. Join me and let’s rewrite your story together. My interests within the field of mental health include assisting those with anxiety and depression, eating disorders, grief and loss, and substance misuse. In particular, I specialize in helping clients with traumatic experiences, with a focus on helping survivors of narcissistic abuse.
(628) 444-4530 View (628) 444-4530
Photo of Hong Guo, PsyD, Psychologist
Hong Guo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102  (Online Only)
As a licensed clinical psychologist fluent in both English and Mandarin, I provide individual psychotherapy. In addition to my general therapy practice, where I treat people struggling with anxiety, depression, work and relationship issues, I also specialize in the treatment of trauma, personality disorders, grief, bereavement, gender issues, major life transitions, and cross-cultural adjustment. Therapy can be beneficial for people seeking understanding of their internal struggles, overwhelming emotional distress, or confusing symptoms and recurring negative experiences.
As a licensed clinical psychologist fluent in both English and Mandarin, I provide individual psychotherapy. In addition to my general therapy practice, where I treat people struggling with anxiety, depression, work and relationship issues, I also specialize in the treatment of trauma, personality disorders, grief, bereavement, gender issues, major life transitions, and cross-cultural adjustment. Therapy can be beneficial for people seeking understanding of their internal struggles, overwhelming emotional distress, or confusing symptoms and recurring negative experiences.
(628) 265-8448 View (628) 265-8448
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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.