Personality Disorder Psychotherapy
About personality disorders
Personality shapes how we see ourselves, relate to others, and move through the world. When patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving become very rigid, painful, or disruptive, they can lead to what clinicians call “personality disorders.” These are not character flaws or moral failings—they are complex, often long‑standing ways of coping that developed for reasons, but now may be causing distress or conflict in daily life.
People living with personality disorders might experience intense emotions, unstable relationships, chronic emptiness, self‑criticism, or identity confusion. They may also struggle with impulsive behaviours, fears of abandonment, or patterns of mistrust that make it hard to feel safe with others. Our services provide a validating, non‑shaming space to explore these patterns, understand where they come from, and begin to experiment with new ways of coping and relating.
We recognize that many people with personality‑related difficulties have experienced trauma, invalidation, or experiences that made it hard to feel securely accepted as they are. In therapy, we focus on building a stable, collaborative relationship where you can practice new skills, receive honest and compassionate feedback, and gradually create more flexibility in how you respond to stress, emotions, and relationships. Over time, many people find more stability, self‑respect, and choice in how they live their lives.
Types of personality disorders
- Borderline personality disorder (BPD)
- Avoidant personality disorder
- Obsessive‑compulsive personality disorder (OCPD)
- Narcissistic personality disorder
- Dependent personality disorder
- Paranoid, schizoid, and schizotypal personality disorders
Most common treatment modalities
- Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and DBT‑informed approaches
- Schema‑focused and other integrative therapies
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Recommended practitioner(s)
- Farhat Shabbir RSW, MSW | fcounsellor4@gmail.com | Book an appointment
- Nora Anderson RP, MA, Ph.D. (c) | nanderson@aworie.com | Not accepting new clients
- Helena Kovač RP, MA | hkovač@gmail.com | Not accepting new clients
