Personality Disorders Psychiatrists in Los Angeles County, CA

Photo of Serena Puga, Psychiatrist in Los Angeles County, CA
Serena Puga
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
I provide comprehensive mental health services to adults, adolescents and couples. For patients who have complex needs such as multiple medical or mental health diagnoses, who have seen many previous practitioners with no results, or who do not want to see multiple providers or need integrated care with a single person they trust, my practice is an ideal fit. I have specialty training in mood disorders, personality disorders, neurodivergence in all its forms, and working with other providers including physicians, lawyers, estate planners, neuropsychologists, and care managers as well as . I am happy to provide in-home services.
I provide comprehensive mental health services to adults, adolescents and couples. For patients who have complex needs such as multiple medical or mental health diagnoses, who have seen many previous practitioners with no results, or who do not want to see multiple providers or need integrated care with a single person they trust, my practice is an ideal fit. I have specialty training in mood disorders, personality disorders, neurodivergence in all its forms, and working with other providers including physicians, lawyers, estate planners, neuropsychologists, and care managers as well as . I am happy to provide in-home services.
(310) 341-0702 View (310) 341-0702
Photo of Luis Enrique Gonzalez, Psychiatrist in Los Angeles County, CA
Luis Enrique Gonzalez
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90026  (Online Only)
Welcome. I’m Dr. Luis Gonzalez, a board-certified psychiatrist with extensive experience in treating ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, thought disorders, and personality disorders among others. I have experience with patients of diverse ages and backgrounds including undergraduates, U.S. veterans, and working professionals. Whether you're curious about medications or seeking ongoing management, I look forward to working with you on your journey toward achieving your mental health goals. ​
Welcome. I’m Dr. Luis Gonzalez, a board-certified psychiatrist with extensive experience in treating ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, thought disorders, and personality disorders among others. I have experience with patients of diverse ages and backgrounds including undergraduates, U.S. veterans, and working professionals. Whether you're curious about medications or seeking ongoing management, I look forward to working with you on your journey toward achieving your mental health goals. ​
(818) 805-1395 View (818) 805-1395
Photo of Adaljiza Tavera, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Los Angeles County, CA
Adaljiza Tavera
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Gardena, CA 90248  (Online Only)
I have many years of treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder or schizophrenia, personality disorders, and those with intellectual developmental disorders and substance use disorders.
I am passionately led to psychiatry because I cherish this personal approach to medicine and thrive in the process of building relationships with patients. I am dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-centered care to my patients.
I have many years of treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder or schizophrenia, personality disorders, and those with intellectual developmental disorders and substance use disorders.
I am passionately led to psychiatry because I cherish this personal approach to medicine and thrive in the process of building relationships with patients. I am dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-centered care to my patients.
(424) 349-4830 View (424) 349-4830
Photo of Michael Mahgerefteh, Psychiatrist in Los Angeles County, CA
Michael Mahgerefteh
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Meet Michael Mahgerefteh, MD - better known to his patients as Dr. Mike Mah. Through training and active treatment, Dr. Mike has honed his expertise in providing comprehensive psychiatric care for a variety of mental illnesses including, but not limited to: depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, psychosis, addiction, and personality disorders.
Meet Michael Mahgerefteh, MD - better known to his patients as Dr. Mike Mah. Through training and active treatment, Dr. Mike has honed his expertise in providing comprehensive psychiatric care for a variety of mental illnesses including, but not limited to: depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, psychosis, addiction, and personality disorders.
(323) 379-1237 View (323) 379-1237
Photo of BiBi Psych, Psychiatrist in Los Angeles County, CA
BiBi Psych
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
We effectively treat Depression & Anxiety disorders, Bipolar disorders, OCD, PTSD, ADHD,Psychotic disorders, eating disorders,Grief & Stress disorders, relational issues, Personality disorders,Anger management ,Dual diagnosis,Men and women issues and LGBTQ issues.
Availability—-only through TELEHEALTH/ ZOOM/ SKYPE/ FACETIME/WHATSAPP. Appointments are available within 48- 72 hours. Focus—MEDICATION MANAGEMENT & THERAPY. My clinic is all about you, making you feel better and productive in your life.Daily grind of life can bring anyone down and our goal is to make you go up and stay there. Each treatment is customized to your needs utilizing the latest scientific knowledge with minimal medication side effects. We treat vast spectrum of psychiatric and psychological disorders. Your privacy and safety is extremely important to me and we monitor it very closely aided by a professional staff.
We effectively treat Depression & Anxiety disorders, Bipolar disorders, OCD, PTSD, ADHD,Psychotic disorders, eating disorders,Grief & Stress disorders, relational issues, Personality disorders,Anger management ,Dual diagnosis,Men and women issues and LGBTQ issues.
Availability—-only through TELEHEALTH/ ZOOM/ SKYPE/ FACETIME/WHATSAPP. Appointments are available within 48- 72 hours. Focus—MEDICATION MANAGEMENT & THERAPY. My clinic is all about you, making you feel better and productive in your life.Daily grind of life can bring anyone down and our goal is to make you go up and stay there. Each treatment is customized to your needs utilizing the latest scientific knowledge with minimal medication side effects. We treat vast spectrum of psychiatric and psychological disorders. Your privacy and safety is extremely important to me and we monitor it very closely aided by a professional staff.
(417) 815-3605 View (417) 815-3605
Photo of Alisa J Land, Psychiatrist in Los Angeles County, CA
Alisa J Land
Psychiatrist, MD, CSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
Whatever challenge you may be facing, I am prepared to support your emotional health and ability to live a full and meaningful life. As a board certified psychiatrist and clinical social worker trained at Harvard, Columbia, and UCLA, I bring a rich training to my practice to allow me to effectively support your needs and integrate psychotherapy and medication management. My areas of expertise include mood, anxiety, thought, and personality disorders and complex grief and trauma. I have specialty training in working with families & couples, and women during times of reproductive change (fertility, pregnancy, postpartum, menopause).
Whatever challenge you may be facing, I am prepared to support your emotional health and ability to live a full and meaningful life. As a board certified psychiatrist and clinical social worker trained at Harvard, Columbia, and UCLA, I bring a rich training to my practice to allow me to effectively support your needs and integrate psychotherapy and medication management. My areas of expertise include mood, anxiety, thought, and personality disorders and complex grief and trauma. I have specialty training in working with families & couples, and women during times of reproductive change (fertility, pregnancy, postpartum, menopause).
(424) 321-7599 View (424) 321-7599
Photo of Judith Armstrong, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Los Angeles County, CA
Judith Armstrong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Judith. I enjoy treating adult ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, insomnia, and various other mental health conditions.
Hi, I'm Judith. I enjoy treating adult ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, insomnia, and various other mental health conditions.
(562) 564-6483 View (562) 564-6483
Photo of Clear Mind Treatment, Psychiatrist in Los Angeles County, CA
Clear Mind Treatment
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Tarzana, CA 91356
Psychiatry only with the depression/anxiety/trauma program along with ketamine, trauma therapy, TMS, Neurofeedback. We have at home and in person options for ketamine and trauma-EMDR, treatment. We treat anxiety, depression, mood disorders, personality disorders and more. Clear Mind Treatment is the perfect option for those looking for insurance based psychiatry, Also, Clear Mind is ideal for those seeking a flexible therapy program where they can talk over video conference or in office.
Psychiatry only with the depression/anxiety/trauma program along with ketamine, trauma therapy, TMS, Neurofeedback. We have at home and in person options for ketamine and trauma-EMDR, treatment. We treat anxiety, depression, mood disorders, personality disorders and more. Clear Mind Treatment is the perfect option for those looking for insurance based psychiatry, Also, Clear Mind is ideal for those seeking a flexible therapy program where they can talk over video conference or in office.
(424) 395-3433 x310896 View (424) 395-3433 x310896
Photo of Center For Behavior Medicine, Psychiatrist in Los Angeles County, CA
Center For Behavior Medicine
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Whittier, CA 90605
Dr. Wang is a Board Certified Psychiatrist licensed to diagnose and treat common mental health illnesses, including, depression,anxiety,bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. Dr. Wang's philosophy of providing medication is to individualize the treatment according to people's diagnosis, symptom profile, treatment history, and other bio-psycho-social factors. Dr. Wang received his medical education at Tianjin Medical University in 1991. He also obtained a doctorate in urology from Tianjin Medical University in 1999. Before he moved to Los Angeles, he completed his four year psychiatry residency training at the University of North Dakota.
Dr. Wang is a Board Certified Psychiatrist licensed to diagnose and treat common mental health illnesses, including, depression,anxiety,bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. Dr. Wang's philosophy of providing medication is to individualize the treatment according to people's diagnosis, symptom profile, treatment history, and other bio-psycho-social factors. Dr. Wang received his medical education at Tianjin Medical University in 1991. He also obtained a doctorate in urology from Tianjin Medical University in 1999. Before he moved to Los Angeles, he completed his four year psychiatry residency training at the University of North Dakota.
(562) 758-7210 View (562) 758-7210
Photo of Sahar Douek, Psychiatrist in Los Angeles County, CA
Sahar Douek
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Tarzana, CA 91356
I have experience in treating: anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, mood disorders (bipolar disorder), psychotic disorders, trauma related conditions such as PTSD, personality disorders, substance use disorders, irritability and anger problems as well as neurodevelopment disorders including but not limited to intellectual disabilities, autism, learning disorders, and ADHD.
I am a board certified psychiatrist, with sub-speciality in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. I treat children, adolescents and adults. I have an empathetic and non-judgment approach and am committed to providing the highest quality of care for my patients. I use psychotropic medications as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. In my practice, I empower my patients to improve their coping skills and interpersonal skills in order to achieve their optimal mental health.
I have experience in treating: anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, mood disorders (bipolar disorder), psychotic disorders, trauma related conditions such as PTSD, personality disorders, substance use disorders, irritability and anger problems as well as neurodevelopment disorders including but not limited to intellectual disabilities, autism, learning disorders, and ADHD.
I am a board certified psychiatrist, with sub-speciality in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. I treat children, adolescents and adults. I have an empathetic and non-judgment approach and am committed to providing the highest quality of care for my patients. I use psychotropic medications as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. In my practice, I empower my patients to improve their coping skills and interpersonal skills in order to achieve their optimal mental health.
(818) 654-4989 View (818) 654-4989
Photo of Erica Taylor, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Los Angeles County, CA
Erica Taylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
La Verne, CA 91750
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in behavioral health nursing. I firmly believe that mental health is just as important as physical health and deserves the same quality of support. My areas of expertise include mood disorders like anxiety and depression, personality disorders, women's mental health, Geri-psych (geriatric psychiatry), and addiction medicine.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over a decade of experience in behavioral health nursing. I firmly believe that mental health is just as important as physical health and deserves the same quality of support. My areas of expertise include mood disorders like anxiety and depression, personality disorders, women's mental health, Geri-psych (geriatric psychiatry), and addiction medicine.
(909) 639-1702 View (909) 639-1702
Photo of Julie M. Hall, Psychiatrist in Los Angeles County, CA
Julie M. Hall
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90024
Having trained at Harvard, UCSF, and UCLA, I have expertise in a number of areas, including mood disorders, personality disorders, anxiety, thought disorders, and various pediatric conditions.
Every thousand mile journey begins with one step. Regardless of what you are going through, I am committed to creating the possibility of complete health and well-being for you. Using my expertise as a double board certified adult, child, and adolescent psychiatrist, I am able to flexibly address issues of all ages. In addition, my combined training in both psychotherapy and medication management ensures an integrated approach of both understanding the dynamics of one's individual situation and combining appropriate medication management when necessary.
Having trained at Harvard, UCSF, and UCLA, I have expertise in a number of areas, including mood disorders, personality disorders, anxiety, thought disorders, and various pediatric conditions.
Every thousand mile journey begins with one step. Regardless of what you are going through, I am committed to creating the possibility of complete health and well-being for you. Using my expertise as a double board certified adult, child, and adolescent psychiatrist, I am able to flexibly address issues of all ages. In addition, my combined training in both psychotherapy and medication management ensures an integrated approach of both understanding the dynamics of one's individual situation and combining appropriate medication management when necessary.
(424) 322-4361 View (424) 322-4361
Photo of Rachel Otubuah, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Los Angeles County, CA
Rachel Otubuah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071  (Online Only)
During my many years of working as a certified mental health provider, I have helped individuals and families (children, adolescents, and adults) with ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Autism, ODD, Personality Disorders and many other disorders find balance and stability in life.
You really can find enjoyment, fulfillment and peace in this life! Many see mental illness as a debilitating disability with little hope to live life to the fullest. I can assure you that there is hope, fulfillment, support, and peace within your reach. My client tells me I treat them as a person, not a disease. I want to help you take control of your life even with mental illness. I am committed to helping you achieve a life free of limitations, fears, and failures. Do not let trauma, PSTD, Anxiety, ADHD, or Depression hold you back from reaching your potential and enjoying life to the fullest.
During my many years of working as a certified mental health provider, I have helped individuals and families (children, adolescents, and adults) with ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Autism, ODD, Personality Disorders and many other disorders find balance and stability in life.
You really can find enjoyment, fulfillment and peace in this life! Many see mental illness as a debilitating disability with little hope to live life to the fullest. I can assure you that there is hope, fulfillment, support, and peace within your reach. My client tells me I treat them as a person, not a disease. I want to help you take control of your life even with mental illness. I am committed to helping you achieve a life free of limitations, fears, and failures. Do not let trauma, PSTD, Anxiety, ADHD, or Depression hold you back from reaching your potential and enjoying life to the fullest.
(909) 402-3077 View (909) 402-3077
Photo of Pamela Schreurs, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Los Angeles County, CA
Pamela Schreurs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071  (Online Only)
My experience also includes treating substance-induced psychosis, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorders, and personality disorders.
Hello, I'm Pam. Do you feel like you are not being heard or that nobody truly understands what you are going through? I am here to listen to your concerns and empower you to be an active participant in your path to mental wellness. My background primarily consists of treating child, adolescent, and young adult populations including LGBTQIA+ and autism spectrum disorders. I specialize in treating attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) as well as mood and affective disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar I and II, post-traumatic stress disorder, post-partum depression, and others.
My experience also includes treating substance-induced psychosis, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorders, and personality disorders.
Hello, I'm Pam. Do you feel like you are not being heard or that nobody truly understands what you are going through? I am here to listen to your concerns and empower you to be an active participant in your path to mental wellness. My background primarily consists of treating child, adolescent, and young adult populations including LGBTQIA+ and autism spectrum disorders. I specialize in treating attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) as well as mood and affective disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar I and II, post-traumatic stress disorder, post-partum depression, and others.
(657) 837-1371 View (657) 837-1371
Photo of Center For Behavior Medicine, Psychiatrist in Los Angeles County, CA
Center For Behavior Medicine
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Whittier, CA 90605
Dr. Wang is a Board Certified Psychiatrist licensed to diagnose and treat common mental health illnesses, including, depression,anxiety,bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. Dr. Wang's philosophy of providing medication is to individualize the treatment according to people's diagnosis, symptom profile, treatment history, and other bio-psycho-social factors. Dr. Wang received his medical education at Tianjin Medical University in 1991. He also obtained a doctorate in urology from Tianjin Medical University in 1999. Before he moved to Los Angeles, he completed his four year psychiatry residency training at the University of North Dakota.
Dr. Wang is a Board Certified Psychiatrist licensed to diagnose and treat common mental health illnesses, including, depression,anxiety,bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. Dr. Wang's philosophy of providing medication is to individualize the treatment according to people's diagnosis, symptom profile, treatment history, and other bio-psycho-social factors. Dr. Wang received his medical education at Tianjin Medical University in 1991. He also obtained a doctorate in urology from Tianjin Medical University in 1999. Before he moved to Los Angeles, he completed his four year psychiatry residency training at the University of North Dakota.
(562) 945-5454 View (562) 945-5454
Photo of Laurice Haycraft, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Los Angeles County, CA
Laurice Haycraft
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90011  (Online Only)
I am an ANCC board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who provides treatment for all ages with various psychiatric disorders that include depression, bipolar, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, sleeping disorder, OCD, schizophrenia, and various personality disorders.
The complexities of life can be challenging and sometimes overwhelming. In some instances, emotional pain can be just as debilitating as physical pain which can impact one’s ability to function mentally, socially, and professionally. One of the greatest rewards for me is witnessing the positive outcomes of providing holistic care for patients who have suffered from various mental disorders. My greatest strength as a provider is treating my patients with compassion, empathy, dignity, and respect.
I am an ANCC board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who provides treatment for all ages with various psychiatric disorders that include depression, bipolar, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, sleeping disorder, OCD, schizophrenia, and various personality disorders.
The complexities of life can be challenging and sometimes overwhelming. In some instances, emotional pain can be just as debilitating as physical pain which can impact one’s ability to function mentally, socially, and professionally. One of the greatest rewards for me is witnessing the positive outcomes of providing holistic care for patients who have suffered from various mental disorders. My greatest strength as a provider is treating my patients with compassion, empathy, dignity, and respect.
(909) 787-1399 View (909) 787-1399
Photo of Sayeh Beheshti, Psychiatrist in Los Angeles County, CA
Sayeh Beheshti
Psychiatrist, MD, MA
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90804
I treat children, age 8-19, who are suffering from the following: Suicidal Thoughts, Self Harm/Cutting, Anxiety Disorder, Depression, ADHD, Autism, Gender Dysphoria, Disruptive Disorder, Mild and Moderate Eating Disorders, Divorce/Family Problems, Personality Disorders, LGBTQ+ Related Issues.  My therapists do individual therapy, group therapy, family therapy, and psychiatry in a comfortable upscale setting in Costa Mesa. We accept health insurance and we make treatment affordable. We have telehealth available for children anywhere in the state of California.
I treat children, age 8-19, who are suffering from the following: Suicidal Thoughts, Self Harm/Cutting, Anxiety Disorder, Depression, ADHD, Autism, Gender Dysphoria, Disruptive Disorder, Mild and Moderate Eating Disorders, Divorce/Family Problems, Personality Disorders, LGBTQ+ Related Issues.  My therapists do individual therapy, group therapy, family therapy, and psychiatry in a comfortable upscale setting in Costa Mesa. We accept health insurance and we make treatment affordable. We have telehealth available for children anywhere in the state of California.
(714) 646-1712 View (714) 646-1712
Photo of Dr. Troy Kurz, Psychiatrist in Los Angeles County, CA
Dr. Troy Kurz
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90006
Dr. Troy Kurz MD, MS is a board-certified child & adolescent psychiatrist, specializing in psychopharmacology, ketamine treatment, integrative psychiatry and psychotherapy. He sees patients of all ages, but has a keen interest in children and adolescence. He cares for a patients with a wide range of mental disorders, including depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD and personality disorders. Pertaining to pediatrics and adolescents—he concentrates on autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, LGBTQIA+ health, trauma, and mood disorders.
Dr. Troy Kurz MD, MS is a board-certified child & adolescent psychiatrist, specializing in psychopharmacology, ketamine treatment, integrative psychiatry and psychotherapy. He sees patients of all ages, but has a keen interest in children and adolescence. He cares for a patients with a wide range of mental disorders, including depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD and personality disorders. Pertaining to pediatrics and adolescents—he concentrates on autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, LGBTQIA+ health, trauma, and mood disorders.
(858) 758-7995 View (858) 758-7995
Photo of Oluwakemi Ajibola Ojo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Los Angeles County, CA
Oluwakemi Ajibola Ojo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90006  (Online Only)
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), Kemmy assesses and treats adults and adolescents with depression, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and personality disorders.
Dedicated to your wellness when it comes to Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Schizophrenia and general mental illness.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), Kemmy assesses and treats adults and adolescents with depression, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and personality disorders.
Dedicated to your wellness when it comes to Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Schizophrenia and general mental illness.
(346) 770-2446 View (346) 770-2446
Photo of Paul Pawlowski MD, Psychiatrist in Los Angeles County, CA
Paul Pawlowski MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90065  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a board certified psychiatrist who specializes in psychotherapy and medication management services for adults. As a psychiatrist, I am uniquely poised to combine psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy in a manner that resonates with a client’s goals and personal experiences.  For some people this involves psychotherapy alone, focused on creating a comfortable space to examine and ameliorate the patterns and behaviors which may be inadvertently furthering one’s dissatisfaction.  For other individuals, the complementary use of medications or alternative treatments may be indicated. 
I am a board certified psychiatrist who specializes in psychotherapy and medication management services for adults. As a psychiatrist, I am uniquely poised to combine psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy in a manner that resonates with a client’s goals and personal experiences.  For some people this involves psychotherapy alone, focused on creating a comfortable space to examine and ameliorate the patterns and behaviors which may be inadvertently furthering one’s dissatisfaction.  For other individuals, the complementary use of medications or alternative treatments may be indicated. 
(323) 968-7316 View (323) 968-7316

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Personality Disorders Psychiatrists

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.