Coping With Personality Disorders
by Sarah J. Kovich, MEd, LPC
Contact Info:
6370 LBJ Suite 272
Dallas, TX 75240
Phone: 972-385-6400
E-mail: skovich@provisionsconsulting.com
Website: www.provisionsconsulting.com/kovich.htm
Usually when you here that a diagnosis of a personality disorder has been given, there is a sense that the diagnosis is irretractable, that is to say not curable, a life sentence. However, with appropriate treatment persons with these disorders- borderline, narcissistic, etc.- can be helped to function in a healthier manner in their day to day lives. And the family dynamics can improve dramatically.
It is not easy however, and can take a great amount of time, energy and money on the part of both the patient and involved family members. One approach that has been documented to be successful is the object-related or relational approach to psychotherpay with these patients. Another approach is slanted toward a more behavioral orientation. Still again, there are
many traditionally cognitive approaches that are used to treat thesepatients.
Over the long haul, it is necessary to use many interventions from each of these disciplines. No one approach is the complete answer. However, it is my opinion that ultimately a relational/ object realtions approach to therapy with these individuals is most helpful.
The primary reason is that these individuals often have the most difficulty in their relationships. The borderline individual often is described as one who can not stay put in relationships, will not weather the storms that most intimate relationships contain. The narcissistic individual is one who is often described as hanging in there but with little emotional attachment or only until the other person "makes a mistake" and then this individual will typically leave either overtly or withdraw emotionally.
As such, if you or someone you know struggles with these disorders, seek help and look for a clinical professional who specializes treating personality disorders from a relational or object-relation orientation.
