We appreciate that the feelings and behaviors associated with personality disorders are very difficult to live with, and everyone deserves understanding and support. We recognise the diversity in understanding of experiences and preferences around terms individuals may wish to use. We are also aware that some professionals disagree with the system of personality disorder diagnosis, and that some people given the diagnosis find it unhelpful and stigmatising.
We all have different ways of thinking, feeling and behaving and these are the parts that make us who we are, our personality. We don’t always react in the same way, as our thoughts, feelings and behaviors will often depend on the situation. But most of the time, we behave in quite a predictable way, or pattern. It is these patterns that make up our personality and describe us as kind, shy, selfish, ambitious, loving and so on.
As we mature, our thoughts, feelings and behaviors will start to change. Though generally, our personality will not. Instead, it will develop as we grow old, face new experiences and learn how to cope with life challenges. If you are suffering with a personality disorder however, you may find this difficult.
Living with a personality disorder may mean your thoughts, feelings and behaviors are more difficult to understand and manage. This may mean your attitudes and actions are different from others. People may not understand this, which can leave you feeling low and insecure.
Counselling for personality disorders will help you understand your thoughts and behaviors better. You will learn how to focus on your beliefs, understand how to control your emotions and learn how to manage symptoms. It is important to talk about what you are going through, whether it be with a friend, family member or suitably qualified professional. While there are many different treatment options available, it will depend on your situation. Our experts will work with you to understand and decide which one will be most effective.
An important part of your treatment is the relationship between you and our therapist. Having someone who you trust and know will support, listen and believe in you is crucial in making sure you are getting the most out of your treatment.
According to the NHS, someone with a cluster A personality disorder may find it difficult to relate to others. They may show behavior patterns that other people may describe as “odd or eccentric”. The personality disorders within cluster A include:
If someone is diagnosed with a cluster B personality disorder, they may struggle to regulate their emotions. Those with a cluster B personality disorder may be described as "erratic".
Personality disorders included in cluster C are those in which anxious and fearful behaviour is central. Individuals with these personality disorders are often regarded as “antisocial and withdrawn”. Cluster C personality disorders include:
The form of treatment offered to you and how effective the treatment is will depend on both the severity of your condition. Generally, treatment will involve a course of psychological therapy. This may include cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) or psychotherapy. Treatment usually lasts at least six months, but this will depend on your situation.
Our counsellor / psychotherapist will aim to help you regulate your thoughts, emotions and understand yourself better. Often sufferers will find that their personality disorder improves as they age. This suggests perhaps that as they grow older, they gain more life experience and develop a better understanding of how to manage and live with their responses and interactions with others.
It is this interaction with others that many people with a personality disorder find difficult, but it is also an area that counselling and psychotherapy can address. Some sufferers will unknowingly stir up emotions in others. A professional can help work through this, usually through suitable supervision and by providing an opportunity to talk in a safe, non-judgemental environment.
Specifically, psychotherapy and CBT are considered to be among the most effective treatment methods. Group therapy has also been shown to help. Being in a group situation will differ from real life because any disagreements or upset will occur in a controlled environment. Here our professionals and other sufferers can help you overcome and learn from any issues that arise.