Personality Disorders

Understanding, Treatment & Support

Carley Counseling Services offers specialized therapy for individuals living with personality disorders. Navigating the complexities of these disorders can be overwhelming, but with the right support, individuals can achieve greater self-awareness, emotional stability, and healthier relationships. The goal is to help build the skills and resilience necessary for a more fulfilling life.

What are Personality Disorders?

Personality disorders are mental health conditions characterized by long-standing patterns of thoughts, behaviors, and emotions that deviate from societal norms. These patterns can cause difficulties in relationships, work, and daily functioning. Personality disorders are typically grouped into three clusters:

Cluster A (Odd or Eccentric)

This includes paranoid, schizoid, and schizotypal personality disorders, which often involve difficulties in forming relationships due to detachment, distrust, or unusual behaviors.

Cluster B (Dramatic, Emotional, or Erratic)

This group includes borderline, narcissistic, histrionic, and antisocial personality disorders, often characterized by intense emotions, impulsivity, or relationship challenges.

Cluster C (Anxious or Fearful)

This cluster includes avoidant, dependent, and obsessive-compulsive personality disorders, where individuals may experience high levels of anxiety, fear of rejection, or a need for control.

Symptoms of Personality Disorders

Relationship Difficulties

Struggles to maintain stable relationships due to emotional instability, mistrust, or intense reactions.

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Inflexible Thinking

Rigid thought patterns make it hard to adapt to new situations or resolve conflicts.

Distorted Self-Image

Challenges with self-identity, often leading to confusion about personal values or goals.

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Impulsive Behavior

Difficulty controlling urges, leading to risky decisions or emotional outbursts.

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Fear of Abandonment

An intense need for reassurance or approval, often fearing rejection or abandonment.

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Chronic Emptiness

Persistent feelings of dissatisfaction or emotional void, regardless of external circumstances.

Treatment for Personality Disorders

Therapy for personality disorders is centered on understanding the individual’s unique challenges and finding effective strategies to manage symptoms. A personalized, evidence-based approach is key to treatment, focusing on helping individuals develop self-awareness, emotional regulation, and healthier interpersonal skills.

Psychotherapy (Talk Therapy)

Several therapeutic modalities are used to address personality disorders, including:

IFS (Internal Family Systems)

IFS helps individuals explore the different “parts” of themselves that may be in conflict or contributing to disruptive behaviors. By healing wounded parts, individuals can experience greater emotional balance and inner harmony.

Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing

EMDR

EMDR is particularly useful for individuals who have experienced trauma that exacerbates symptoms of personality disorders. It helps process and heal traumatic memories, leading to emotional regulation and relief.

DBT

DBT is especially effective for those struggling with borderline personality disorder. It focuses on helping individuals regulate emotions, tolerate distress, and improve interpersonal effectiveness.

CBT

CBT assists in identifying and challenging distorted thought patterns that contribute to harmful behaviors or emotional instability, fostering positive behavioral changes.

ACT

ACT encourages accepting difficult emotions rather than avoiding them. It promotes psychological flexibility and helps individuals align their actions with core values.

Medication Management

While psychotherapy is the foundation of treatment, some individuals may benefit from medication to manage specific symptoms such as anxiety, depression, or impulsivity. Collaborating with a psychiatrist or primary care provider can ensure a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses both therapeutic and medicinal needs.

Lifestyle Changes and Self-Care

In addition to therapy, self-care and lifestyle adjustments can play a crucial role in managing personality disorders. Establishing healthy routines and habits can promote emotional well-being and stability. This includes:

Regular Sleep Patterns

Establish a consistent sleep routine to improve mood stability and emotional regulation.

Mindfulness Practices

Incorporate meditation or deep breathing exercises to reduce stress and promote emotional balance.

Physical Activity

Engage in regular exercise to boost mood, reduce anxiety, and improve overall mental health.

Support Network

Build a strong circle of friends and family to offer understanding and encouragement.

Healthy Boundaries

Set clear boundaries in relationships to protect emotional well-being and prevent overwhelm.

Education and Empowerment

Understanding a personality disorder is a key part of managing it. Psychoeducation provides insight into how the disorder affects emotions and behaviors, empowering individuals to recognize triggers, understand thought patterns, and make informed decisions about their treatment and self-care.

Take the First Step Toward Healing

Living with a personality disorder can feel overwhelming, but there is hope. Therapy provides the tools to manage symptoms, develop healthier relationships, and lead a more stable and fulfilling life. Carley Counseling Services is committed to helping individuals navigate these challenges, build resilience, and foster a deeper understanding of themselves.

If you or someone you know is struggling with a personality disorder, reach out to Carley Counseling Services today. Take the first step toward healing and a more balanced life. Contact the office to schedule an appointment and begin your journey toward improved mental health and emotional well-being.

megan@carleycounselingservices.com

(972) 275-6590