Services / Personality Disorder Treatment

Personality Disorder Treatment

Book an Appointment

Personality disorders are complex mental health conditions characterized by enduring patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving that differ significantly from cultural expectations and cause difficulties in relationships, work, and daily functioning.

These patterns are often inflexible, long-lasting, and can make it challenging for individuals to adapt to life’s changes or stressors. Personality disorders affect approximately 9% of adults in the U.S., with symptoms often beginning in adolescence or early adulthood.

If you or someone you love is showing signs of a personality disorder, know that effective personality disorder treatment is available. With the right plan—especially when guided by an experienced psychiatrist—individuals can learn healthier ways of relating to themselves and others, improving quality of life and overall stability. Early and consistent intervention can prevent worsening symptoms and help promote long-term recovery.

The team at Fine Tune Psychiatry includes specialists trained to evaluate, diagnose, and provide personality disorder treatment both in person and through online psychiatric care.

What Are the Symptoms of Personality Disorders?

Personality disorders vary by type, but they typically involve difficulties in self-image, emotional regulation, interpersonal relationships, and impulse control. Depending on the diagnosis, symptoms may include:

  • Intense or unstable relationships
  • Distorted self-image or unstable sense of identity
  • Impulsive or risky behaviors
  • Extreme sensitivity to criticism or perceived rejection
  • Intense emotional reactions or mood swings
  • Chronic feelings of emptiness or boredom
  • Difficulty trusting others or strong suspicion/paranoia

Because symptoms can overlap with other conditions, accurate diagnosis by a skilled provider is essential.

Types of Personality Disorders

Personality disorders are grouped into three categories, or “clusters”:

Cluster A (Eccentric/Odd Disorders)

  • Paranoid Personality Disorder
  • Schizoid Personality Disorder
  • Schizotypal Personality Disorder

Cluster B (Dramatic/Emotional/Erratic Disorders)

  • Borderline Personality Disorder
  • Narcissistic Personality Disorder
  • Histrionic Personality Disorder
  • Antisocial Personality Disorder

Cluster C (Anxious/Fearful Disorders)

  • Avoidant Personality Disorder
  • Dependent Personality Disorder
  • Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder (not to be confused with OCD)

Personality Disorders We Treat

  • Borderline Personality Disorder: Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is a complex mental health condition marked by intense emotions, unstable relationships, impulsive behaviors, and difficulties with self-image and identity. People with BPD may struggle with fear of abandonment, rapid mood changes, and a pattern of extreme thinking, which can make daily life and relationships challenging. Treatment for borderline personality disorder often involves evidence-based therapies such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), along with medication management when needed to address co-occurring symptoms like anxiety or depression.
  • Narcissistic Personality Disorder
  • Avoidant Personality Disorder
  • Obsessive Compulsive Personality Disorder
  • Dependant Personality Disorder
  • And More

At Fine Tune Psychiatry, our dedicated team of psychiatrists have years of experience treating BPD and will work closely with you to create a personalized treatment plan that supports your unique requirements and long-term well-being.

How Fine Tune Psychiatry Treats Personality Disorders

Every person requires a tailored approach to care. At Fine Tune Psychiatry, we design a personality disorder treatment plan that addresses each patient’s specific needs, history, and co-occurring conditions. Our team works to find the most effective combination of therapy, medication (when appropriate), and supportive services to build long-term stability.

Your First Appointment for Personality Disorder Treatment

During your first visit, your psychiatrist will complete a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation that may include:

  • Personal, medical, and psychiatric history
  • Review of symptoms and past treatment approaches
  • Family history and relational patterns
  • Safety and risk assessment
  • Social, cultural, and educational context
  • Screening for co-occurring conditions such as depression, anxiety, or substance use

Afterward, your provider will create a customized plan that may include therapy, medication support, and lifestyle recommendations.

Therapy Options for Personality Disorders

Therapy is the cornerstone of personality disorder treatment. Evidence-based approaches include:

  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Especially effective for borderline personality disorder, DBT teaches skills in emotional regulation, distress tolerance, mindfulness, and interpersonal effectiveness.
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps individuals challenge unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors while improving problem-solving and emotional management.
  • Schema Therapy: Focuses on identifying and changing deeply ingrained patterns (schemas) developed in childhood.
  • Psychodynamic Therapy: Helps individuals gain insight into unconscious patterns influencing their relationships and behaviors.

Our providers can incorporate psychotherapy into their sessions. In addition, for the treatment of Personality Disorders, our clinicians can give referrals for and collaborate with specialized therapists for more focused and intensive therapy.

Medication Management for Personality Disorders

While no medication can cure personality disorders, certain prescriptions can help manage co-occurring symptoms such as anxiety, depression, or impulsivity. Providers may use antidepressants, mood stabilizers, or antipsychotic medications depending on individual needs.

At Fine Tune Psychiatry, medication is always used thoughtfully and in combination with therapy to support long-term goals.

How to Find the Right Psychiatrist for Personality Disorder Treatment

To find the right specialist, consider:

  • Asking your primary care doctor for a referral
  • Contacting local hospitals or university psychiatric programs
  • Checking with your insurance provider for covered psychiatrists
  • Searching online for “psychiatrist for personality disorders near me”
  • Speaking with trusted friends or family for recommendations
  • Using national mental health directories or professional associations

In-Office and Telehealth Appointments

Fine Tune Psychiatry Virtual Care for Personality Disorders:

  • Pennsylvania
  • New Jersey
  • Delaware

Fine Tune Psychiatry Locations for In-Person Care

  • Philadelphia, PA
  • Pittsburgh, PA
  • Paoli, PA
  • Collingswood, NJ
  • Wilmington, DE

Related Resources

View All

Other 4 mins read

What Is Executive Function?

Executive function is the set of mental skills that helps you manage everyday life. It...

Anxiety 5 mins read

7 Common Myths About Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a Mood Disorder that affects roughly 2% of the population, yet it...

Autism 3 mins read

Should I Medicate My Child? A Thoughtful, Evidence-Based Perspective

Table of Contents Naming the Reality Families Live With Understanding Agitation and Aggression in Autism...

FAQs

What causes personality disorders?

The causes are complex and may involve a mix of genetics, early childhood experiences, trauma, and environmental stressors. These factors interact to influence how individuals perceive themselves and others.

Can personality disorders improve with treatment?

Yes. While personality disorders are long-term conditions, therapy, medication and support can significantly reduce symptoms and help individuals build healthier relationships, coping skills, and stability.

Does insurance cover treatment for personality disorders?

Most insurance plans cover therapy and medication management for personality disorders, though coverage may vary by provider and plan. Our team can assist in coordinating with your insurance to ensure appropriate care access.