Evidence-Based Mental Health Therapy in Boca Raton

Personality Disorder Therapy in Boca Raton

Understand Your Patterns. Build Healthier Relationships. Move Forward With Support.

Living with persistent emotional challenges, difficulties with self-image, or recurring relationship patterns can leave you feeling misunderstood or overwhelmed.

Our experienced clinicians provide compassionate, individualized therapy to help you understand your experiences, develop practical coping skills, and work toward greater emotional stability and healthier relationships.

Reduced-Rate Therapy Packages Available

What Are Personality Disorders?

Understanding Long-Standing Patterns of Thoughts, Emotions, and Relationships

Personality disorders are mental health conditions involving persistent patterns in how a person thinks, feels, responds to situations, and relates to others. These patterns can become difficult to change and may interfere with emotional well-being, relationships, work, or other important areas of daily life.

Everyone experiences emotional ups and downs or interpersonal conflict at times. A personality disorder involves more persistent and widespread challenges that cause significant distress or interfere with daily functioning.

These conditions are not character flaws. They are complex mental health concerns that deserve thoughtful evaluation, understanding, and appropriate treatment.

Having a personality disorder does not define who you are.

A Space to Feel Understood

Private, respectful care focused on your needs, strengths, and goals.

When Additional Support May Help

Common Signs and Symptoms of Personality Disorders

Recognizing Patterns Is an Important Step Toward Understanding Them

Signs can vary significantly from person to person. Some people experience challenges primarily in relationships. Others struggle with self-image, emotional regulation, rigid thinking, or adapting to change.

01

Difficulty Managing Emotions

Intense emotional reactions, persistent anger, distress, or difficulty returning to a balanced state after stress.

02

Ongoing Relationship Challenges

Recurring conflict, difficulty trusting others, fear of rejection or abandonment, or challenges maintaining close relationships.

03

Challenges With Self-Image

A changing or uncertain sense of identity, low self-esteem, or difficulty understanding personal needs and values.

04

Rigid Thinking or Behavior Patterns

Difficulty considering alternative viewpoints, adapting to circumstances, or changing familiar responses.

05

Impulsive or Unhelpful Coping

Responding to difficult emotions through decisions or behaviors that create additional challenges.

06

Fear, Withdrawal, or Difficulty Connecting

Avoiding relationships or social situations due to anxiety, mistrust, criticism, or fear of emotional closeness.

You do not need a diagnosis to begin asking questions or seeking support.

Experiencing these difficulties does not necessarily mean you have a personality disorder. A qualified professional can help evaluate your concerns.

Learning About Different Conditions

Understanding the Different Types of Personality Disorders

Mental health professionals traditionally organize personality disorders into three groups, called Clusters A, B, and C. These categories describe patterns that may share characteristics, although every person's experience is unique.

Cluster A

Patterns Involving Mistrust, Detachment, or Unusual Thinking

Paranoid Personality Disorder

Persistent mistrust, doubts about others' intentions, or concerns about being deceived or harmed.

Schizoid Personality Disorder

A preference for solitary activities, limited interest in close relationships, or restricted emotional expression.

Schizotypal Personality Disorder

Unusual beliefs or perceptions, significant social discomfort, or difficulty developing close relationships.

Cluster B

Patterns Involving Emotional Intensity, Impulsivity, or Relationship Difficulties

Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)

Intense emotions, fears of abandonment, an unstable sense of self, impulsivity, or difficulties in close relationships.

Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD)

A heightened need for admiration, difficulties responding to criticism, or challenges with empathy and relationships.

Histrionic Personality Disorder

Intense emotional expression, a strong desire for attention or approval, or difficulty feeling overlooked.

Antisocial Personality Disorder

Patterns of disregarding others' rights, violating boundaries, or engaging in behavior that causes harm.

Cluster C

Patterns Involving Anxiety, Fear, or a Strong Need for Control

Avoidant Personality Disorder

Fear of criticism, rejection, or embarrassment that makes close relationships or social situations difficult.

Dependent Personality Disorder

Difficulty making decisions independently, strong reassurance needs, or fears of losing important relationships.

Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD)

Rigid perfectionism, a strong need for order or control, and difficulties adapting to unexpected circumstances.

An accurate assessment matters. Symptoms can overlap with anxiety, depression, trauma-related conditions, and other concerns.

A Common Focus of Personality Disorder Therapy

Borderline Personality Disorder Therapy in Boca Raton

Develop Skills for Emotional Regulation, Relationships, and Everyday Life

Borderline Personality Disorder, commonly called BPD, can affect how individuals experience emotions, understand themselves, and connect with others.

Someone living with BPD may experience intense emotional reactions, sensitivity to perceived rejection, relationship instability, difficulties with self-image, or impulsive behaviors. Effective treatments are available, and many people experience meaningful improvements with appropriate support.

Treatment goals may include:

  • Understanding emotional triggers
  • Managing overwhelming feelings
  • Improving communication skills
  • Building a more stable sense of self
  • Reducing impulsive behaviors
  • Developing healthier boundaries

Compassionate Care. Personalized Support. Meaningful Progress.

Our Approach to Personality Disorder Therapy

Evidence-Based Treatment That Recognizes Your Individual Needs

No two people experience personality-related difficulties in exactly the same way. We take time to understand your history, current challenges, strengths, and goals. Our clinicians use established therapeutic approaches to support meaningful changes in everyday life.

Comprehensive Assessment and Individualized Psychotherapy

We start by listening. Your clinician explores emotional experiences, relationships, behavioral patterns, and personal history to help guide appropriate treatment. Together, you identify goals and explore patterns that may be affecting well-being, relationships, and confidence.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

DBT teaches practical strategies to manage intense emotions and respond more effectively to stressful situations. It is particularly supported by evidence for borderline personality disorder.

Mindfulness

Become more aware of thoughts and feelings.

Distress Tolerance

Manage difficult moments with care.

Emotion Regulation

Understand and manage emotional responses.

Interpersonal Effectiveness

Improve communication and boundaries.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT helps identify connections among thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. It can support more balanced ways of interpreting situations and responding to difficult experiences.

Mindfulness and Relationship-Focused Support

Therapy may also include mindfulness-based strategies, psychodynamic exploration, and other techniques appropriate to your individual needs.

Our goal is to give you valuable tools that support self-understanding, emotional growth, and a more fulfilling, rewarding life.

Building a Better Future, One Session at a Time

What Can Personality Disorder Therapy Help You Work Toward?

Greater Understanding. Healthier Responses. More Meaningful Connections.

Therapy offers a structured, supportive environment where you can explore what's happening in your life and practice skills that support your personal goals.

1

Greater Emotional Awareness

Recognize feelings and triggers before they lead to overwhelming reactions.

2

Healthier Relationships

Build communication skills, appropriate boundaries, and more constructive approaches to conflict.

3

Improved Self-Understanding

Explore experiences and patterns that affect how you see yourself and interact with others.

4

More Effective Coping Skills

Practice skills for managing distress, uncertainty, rejection, and difficult interactions.

5

Increased Confidence

Make decisions with greater awareness and work toward goals reflecting your values.

6

A Stronger Sense of Stability

Develop routines and responses that support well-being over time.

Progress looks different for everyone. Therapy is collaborative, and meaningful improvement often develops through ongoing practice.

Starting Therapy Should Feel Approachable

Getting Started Is Easier Than You May Think

Three Simple Steps Toward Personalized Support

1

Reach Out for a Free Consultation

Call our office or complete the form to arrange a free 15-minute conversation. Discuss general concerns and ask questions.

2

Discuss Your Needs and Goals

During your initial appointment, your therapist will take time to understand your experiences, personal history, and goals.

3

Begin Your Personalized Therapy

Work with your clinician to explore important patterns, develop coping skills, and make progress toward meaningful goals.

Experienced Professionals Who Understand Your Challenges

Compassionate Personality Disorder Therapy From Experienced Clinicians

Personalized Care in a Private, Welcoming Environment

Founded by Adam Friedman, Ph.D., and Adriane Schmitt, LMHC, Boca Raton Psychology Associates provides understanding, individualized care to patients throughout South Florida.

Adam Friedman, Ph.D.

Dr. Friedman has experience working with individuals facing anxiety, depression, PTSD, borderline personality disorder, and relationship concerns. His approach emphasizes personal insight, individualized treatment, and coping skills.

Adriane Schmitt, LMHC

Adriane Schmitt brings training in DBT and experience supporting people with emotional regulation difficulties, borderline personality disorder, anxiety, depression, and relationship concerns.

Our clinicians believe every person's experiences deserve attention and understanding. We help patients set meaningful goals in a respectful, supportive environment.

Personalized Therapy. Evidence-Based Support.

Why Choose Boca Raton Psychology Associates?

Your Experiences Matter. Your Treatment Should Reflect Them.

Choosing a mental health professional is personal. We work to create a setting where you can share concerns, build trust, and move forward with supportive guidance.

Individualized Treatment

Care tailored to your experiences, strengths, and goals.

Evidence-Based Approaches

Established methods, including DBT, CBT, and other appropriate approaches.

Experienced Clinicians

Professional experience supporting complex emotional and relationship challenges.

Respectful Environment

A private setting where you can explore concerns without judgment.

Flexible Appointments

Online, evening, and weekend options, subject to suitability and availability.

Reduced-Rate Packages

Discounted therapy packages may help make ongoing care more manageable.

Empowering You to Live Your Best Life

Care That Fits Your Needs

Online appointments and reduced-rate package options.

Your Mental Health Matters

Quality Mental Health Care With Options That Work for You

Explore Flexible Appointments and Reduced-Rate Therapy Packages

Seeking consistent mental health support is an important investment in your well-being. Our practice offers discounted therapy packages and online therapy appointments for eligible patients.

Reduced-Rate Therapy Packages Available

Contact us for current package options, standard fees, and payment arrangements.

Insurance and Online Therapy

Our practice operates as an out-of-network provider. Superbills are available on request for possible reimbursement, subject to your plan. Online appointments depend on clinical appropriateness and scheduling availability.

Answers to Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions About Personality Disorders

Understanding Your Options Can Make the First Step Easier

If you are exploring treatment for yourself or someone close to you, here are answers to common questions about diagnosis, therapy, and starting care.

  • What is a personality disorder?

    A personality disorder is a mental health condition involving persistent patterns of thinking, emotional responses, and behavior that cause significant distress or interfere with relationships and everyday functioning. A professional evaluation is important.

  • Can personality disorders be treated successfully?

    Yes. Psychotherapy can help many people better manage symptoms, improve daily functioning, and develop healthier relationships. Progress varies, and appropriate treatment depends on the individual condition and needs.

  • What type of therapy is used for personality disorders?

    Treatment may include DBT, CBT, psychodynamic psychotherapy, and other clinically appropriate approaches. DBT has particularly strong evidence for borderline personality disorder. Your clinician can help select suitable methods.

  • How are personality disorders diagnosed?

    Diagnosis involves a clinical evaluation of emotional experiences, behavior, relationships, personal history, and functioning over time. Other possible explanations for symptoms are also considered.

  • Do I need a diagnosis before starting therapy?

    No. You can seek help with emotion regulation, recurring relationship problems, self-esteem, or other distressing patterns without having a personality disorder diagnosis.

  • How long does personality disorder therapy take?

    Treatment length varies with needs, goals, symptoms, and progress. Since personality-related patterns may develop over many years, ongoing work can be helpful. Your therapist can discuss a plan and review progress.

  • Can family members or loved ones benefit from therapy?

    Yes. Counseling can help family members or partners develop communication skills, establish boundaries, and better understand difficult relationship dynamics. Involvement in a patient’s treatment requires appropriate consent.

  • Do you offer online personality disorder therapy?

    Online appointments may be available for eligible patients, based on clinical needs, scheduling, and applicable requirements. Contact our office to discuss whether online therapy is suitable.

  • Are reduced-rate packages available?

    Yes. Boca Raton Psychology Associates offers discounted therapy packages. Ask our office about current availability, fees, and options.

  • How do I schedule a consultation?

    Call (786) 447-7766 or complete the consultation request form on this page to inquire about a free 15-minute consultation.

Continue Learning

Additional Mental Health Resources

Helpful Information for Individuals and Families

Addressing Personality Disorders

Learn about the therapeutic relationship, professional support, and understanding complex challenges.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Explore DBT skills for emotional regulation, distress tolerance, mindfulness, and relationships.

Couples & Relationship Therapy

Recognize recurring patterns, strengthen communication, and address relationship difficulties.

We Are Here to Help

Request a Free 15 Minute Consultation

Let's Talk About How We Can Help

Taking the first step toward therapy can feel difficult. Our team is here to help you explore your options in a respectful, supportive environment.

Boca Raton Psychology Associates

Request a Free 15 Minute Consultation

Request a Free 15 Minute Consultation

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