Psychiatrist For Personality Disorders
The Therapy Company offers professional diagnosis and private psychiatry for Personality Disorders.
Personality disorders are a group of mental health conditions characterised by enduring patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving that deviate significantly from cultural norms and expectations. These patterns of behaviour and thought are inflexible and pervasive, affecting various aspects of an individual’s life, including their personal relationships, work, and self-perception.
Here at The Therapy Company, our private psychiatrists are able to provide personality disorder diagnosis and on-going treatment for patients suffering with clear symptoms. Our goal is simple; to improve the quality of your life and well-being.
There are some common features that we look out for which may indicate you have personality disorder. For example, our psychiatrists will look out for distorted thinking patterns, maladaptive coping mechanisms, and impaired interpersonal relationships.
If a personality disorder gets left undiagnosed and untreated, it can have an adverse impact on an individual’s life. This can lead to increased risk of further mental health issues and difficulty with impulse control.
For more information about private psychiatry for personality disorders and how we can help, call us today at 01772 440321 or use our online contact form.
Alternatively, read the full blog post to find out more about:
- Diagnosis for Personality Disorders
- Treatments for managing Personality Disorders
- Symptoms of Personality Disorders and signs you need professional help
Diagnosis For Personality Disorders
The diagnosis for personality disorders is conducted by one of our highly-experienced and qualified psychiatrists. Diagnosis typically involves a three-step process which includes;-
Initial Assessment – The first step of diagnosis will be your initial assessment. Here, one of our highly-regarded and compassionate psychiatrists will gather information and your concerns and symptoms. Questions will also be asked regarding your personal relationships, family backgrounds, and previous mental health treatments.
Diagnostic Criteria – After the initial assessment, the next stage of diagnosis will be referring to the diagnostic criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) or other relevant diagnostic guidelines. Clear patterns of emotional dysregulation and behaviour will be analysed to give us a much more accurate assessment.
Psychological Testing – In some cases, psychological testing may be conducted to assess specific aspects of personality functioning. This allows our psychiatrists to delve deeper into the specific personality disorders to provide an accurate diagnosis. Within psychological testing, the following is usually tested; interpersonal patterns, cognitive functioning, and emotional regulation.
Psychiatry Treatments For Personality Disorders
After diagnosis, our private psychiatrists at The Therapy Company are able to offer and provide on-going treatments to help better manage the symptoms of personality disorders. Here are the three main treatments offered:
CBT – Cognitive Behaviour Therapy is widely used for a multitude of personality disorders. CBT involves talking with a skilled professional who will help you to identify and change dysfunctional thoughts and/or behaviours. Much of CBT is centred around reframing and developing healthier coping mechanisms that you can rely on in particularly challenging times.
Medication – Although there is no specific medication available solely for personality disorders, medication can be prescribed for mental health conditions that may go hand-in-hand with personality disorders. For example, anxiety or depression. Where appropriate, mood stabilisers or anti-depressants may be prescribed.
Counselling – Counselling by itself isn’t enough to treat or manage the symptoms of personality disorders. However, it can be useful when used alongside CBT and/or medication. Counselling can provide emotional support with a qualified professional that can advise and listen to your concerns.
Symptoms Of Personality Disorders
Psychiatrists can currently identify up to TEN different types of personality disorders which are categorised into three groups. Therefore, there are a multitude of different symptoms, depending on the type of personality disorders you may have. However, below are just three of the main common symptoms identified across the board:
Distorted Thinking Patterns – This particular symptom may include paranoia and persistent and unwarranted suspicions of others’ motives and intentions.
Emotional Instability – If you suffer with persistent fear of abandonment, fluctuating mood swings or chronic feelings of emptiness, this may be a symptom of a personality disorder.
Impaired Interpersonal Relationships – Again, the common theme is the persistent nature of these symptoms which may include; manipulative behaviour, lack of empathy, and intense relationships.
Why The Therapy Company?
If you’re looking for a personality disorder diagnosis, our private psychiatrists are here to help. Whether you want to see us at our HQ in Preston or you would prefer an online appointment, we can provide comprehensive diagnosis and on-going treatment if required. We are proud to be your 5-star-rated private psychiatrists and can provide a prompt appointment time for you.
Contact Us Today
Are you ready to schedule your first appointment? Contact us today by calling 01772 725530 for further details. If you prefer email, simply fill out our online contact form, and we will respond within 24 hours or less.
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Psychiatry For Personality Disorders - FAQs
There are a number of ways that a psychiatrist can help with personality disorders. After diagnosis, there are various treatments to consider that may help with the symptoms of personality disorder. They can help manage symptoms, improve coping strategies, and address co-occurring mental health issues such as depression or anxiety.
Treatment options for personality disorders will differ from individual. However, The Therapy Company regularly provides Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to understand and change common thinking patterns. Medication may also be provided in conjunction to help or decrease symptoms such as mood instability or anxiety.
Personality disorders are long-term conditions and although they can’t be cured, they can be helped and symptoms can be managed with the help of private psychiatrists. We have helped many individuals with on-going treatment and medication to lead fulfilling lives whilst also enhancing general health and well-being.
Personality disorders are complex and there are various types of personality disorders too. One of the most prominent signs that you may need to seek help for yourself or your loved one is if you identify persistent patterns of behaviour causing significant distress or impairment. Difficulty maintaining relationships is another sign, as well as severe anxiety or depression.
Preparing for your first appointment with a psychiatrist is imperative to ensure you don’t forget anything. Your first appointment with us will be relaxed and you’ll be made to feel completely safe and comfortable. We recommend that you write down any symptoms you’ve been experiencing and how they affect your daily life. Furthermore, it’s also advisable to list any previous treatment or medications you’ve tried, and also bring any relevant medical records or information.
Common types of personality disorders include:
- Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)
- Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD)
- Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD)
- Avoidant Personality Disorder (AvPD)
- Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD)
- Schizotypal Personality Disorder (STPD)
- Dependent Personality Disorder (DPD)
The length and duration of treatment for personality disorders ultimately depends on the severity of the disorders. For some patients, short-term therapy and medication may be sufficient to better symptoms. For others, it may be that you require long-term treatment. The Therapy Company provides initial assessments to determine the approximate duration of treatment necessary.
Yes, of course, and we are able to refer you to local support groups specifically for individuals with personality disorders. Alongside regular CBT and medication, these groups can provide emotional support, practical advice, and a sense of community.
If you’re looking for ways that you can support a loved one with a personality disorder, the good news is that there are things you can do. We encourage you to be open, patient and understanding where possible. Educating yourself about the disorder may also provide helpful and useful information for you as you can understand the key symptoms.
While personality disorders are typically diagnosed in adulthood, symptoms can begin in adolescence or even childhood. Early intervention can be beneficial, so it’s important to seek professional advice if you notice concerning behaviours in young individuals.
