Personality Disorders

Personality Disorders services offered in Phoenix, AZ

Personality disorders can affect the way you think, feel, behave, and relate to others. These long-standing patterns may impact relationships, work, self-image, and overall quality of life. At 180 Mental Health and Wellness in Phoenix, Arizona, Angela Stuff, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC, and Nicola Ciarelli, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC, provide comprehensive mental health evaluations and medication management services for individuals experiencing personality-related mental health concerns. They develop personalized treatment plans focused on symptom management, emotional well-being, and improving daily functioning. To get started, contact the office or schedule an appointment online today.

Personality Disorders Q & A

What are personality disorders?

Personality disorders are mental health conditions that affect how you think, feel, behave, and relate to others. Everyone has their own personality and way of interacting with people and situations. However, a personality disorder involves long-term patterns of thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that may make it more difficult to maintain relationships, succeed at work or school, and navigate everyday challenges.

These patterns are often inflexible and may affect how you view yourself, other people, and the world around you. Personality disorders can vary in severity and may develop due to a combination of genetic, environmental, and life experiences. In many cases, symptoms first become noticeable during adolescence or early adulthood.

What are the different types of personality disorders?

Mental health professionals generally group personality disorders into three categories, or “clusters,” based on similar characteristics:

Cluster A (unusual or eccentric thinking and behaviors)

These include paranoid personality disorder, schizoid personality disorder, and schizotypal personality disorder.

Cluster B (intense emotions, impulsive behaviors, and unstable relationships)

Examples include borderline personality disorder, narcissistic personality disorder, antisocial personality disorder, and histrionic personality disorder.

Cluster C (anxious or fearful thinking and behaviors)

These include avoidant personality disorder, dependent personality disorder, and obsessive-compulsive personality disorder.

What symptoms may indicate a personality disorder?

Symptoms vary depending on the specific personality disorder, but may include:

Difficulty maintaining healthy relationships
Intense emotional reactions
Fear of abandonment or rejection
Persistent distrust or suspiciousness
Impulsive or risky behaviors
Difficulty managing emotions
Social withdrawal or avoidance
A strong need for control, perfectionism, or reassurance
Challenges adapting to change
Ongoing interpersonal conflict

These symptoms can affect personal relationships, work performance, decision-making, and overall emotional well-being.

How are personality disorders managed?

The team at 180 Mental Health and Wellness begins with a comprehensive mental health evaluation to better understand your symptoms, history, and overall mental health needs.

Because personality disorders often occur alongside conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), an accurate evaluation is essential for developing an appropriate treatment plan. Then, medication management may be advised to help address associated symptoms. The team carefully monitors your progress and adjusts treatment recommendations based on your individual needs and response to care.

If you recognize signs of a personality disorder in yourself or someone you care about, call the office or use the online scheduling feature today.

Personality Disorders