Personality Disorders

“A crucial element of the real self is its unconditional acceptance of itself.” –  Michael Adzema

Personality involves a unique blend of traits, including attitudes, thoughts, behaviors, and moods, as well as how we express these traits in our interactions with other people and the world around us. People with a personality disorder display more rigid thinking and reactive behaviors that make it difficult for them to adapt to a situation, impact behavioral choices, and often interfere with daily functioning. Sometimes, individuals with personality disorders find it difficult to make and maintain relationships. They may have peculiar, anxious, and fearful thoughts and reactions. They may even have dramatic, emotional, and/or unpredictable thoughts and/or behaviors.

There is not a definitive, identifiable cause for the development of personality disorders. It is believed that a combination of genetic predisposition and environment contribute to their development. So, if family members have a disorder, if brain chemistry is not balanced, and/or if there has been abuse (i.e., experienced or witnessed), there is a greater possibility that a personality disorder may develop. Because of this, psychotherapy is an important movement toward creating a sense of life-balance. The therapists at MPTS strive to help individuals struggling with personality disorders to progress toward a more balanced life by focusing on present-time thinking to become more grounded.