Personality disorders are complex, long-standing patterns of thinking and behavior that can impact your relationships, self-image and daily functioning. Approximately 9% of people have some type of personality disorder. Conditions like borderline personality disorder (BPD), narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) and avoidant personality disorder often require specialized care — especially when symptoms become overwhelming.
For many, weekly therapy isn’t enough. If you’re facing a crisis, feeling unsafe or simply not improving with outpatient care, a residential or inpatient setting may offer the stability and tools needed to begin healing.
This article explains what personality disorder rehab involves, who it’s for and how to begin if you’re ready to take the next step.
What Is a Personality Disorder?
A personality disorder is a mental health condition that affects how a person thinks, feels and behaves over time. These patterns are typically inflexible, deeply ingrained and difficult to manage without professional help.
Some of the most recognized types include:
- Borderline personality disorder (BPD)
- Avoidant personality disorder
- Antisocial personality disorder
- Histrionic personality disorder
- Obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (OCPD)
- Dependent Personality Disorder
- Paranoid personality disorder
- Schizoid or Schizotypal personality disorder
People with personality disorders may struggle with:
- Intense emotional reactions
- Unstable relationships
- Impulsivity or self-harm
- Chronic feelings of emptiness
- Low self-worth or shame
- Difficulty trusting others
These symptoms can make daily life feel unpredictable or unmanageable — but effective personality disorder treatment is available.
What Is Rehab for a Personality Disorder?
Rehab programs for personality disorders are structured environments designed to help individuals build emotional regulation, interpersonal skills and long-term recovery tools.
They may be:
- Inpatient (hospital-based). Short-term stabilization, usually for safety concerns
- Residential (rehab setting). Longer stays focused on therapy and skill-building
- Partial hospitalization programs (PHP). Day treatment while living at home
- Intensive outpatient programs (IOP). Several therapy sessions per week
Each program offers different levels of support, depending on the severity of your symptoms and your personal needs.
Who Should Consider Inpatient or Residential Care?
You might benefit from checking into a treatment center if you:
- Feel unsafe or overwhelmed by your symptoms
- Struggle with self-harm or suicidal thoughts
- Have frequent emotional outbursts or relationship instability
- Haven’t made progress in outpatient therapy
- Need a break from triggering environments
- Are also dealing with substance use or trauma
It’s okay to ask for more help when things feel out of control. Residential programs provide a chance to reset in a safe, supportive setting.
What to Expect in Personality Disorder Treatment
Most programs use a structured, evidence-based approach tailored to personality disorders. Here are some of the most common therapeutic approaches.
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
DBT is one of the most effective treatments for BPD and other personality disorders. It focuses on emotional regulation, mindfulness, distress tolerance and improving relationships. - Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT helps individuals identify and shift unhelpful thinking patterns that lead to emotional or behavioral difficulties. - Individual and Group Therapy
One-on-one sessions provide a safe space to explore past experiences and current challenges. Group therapy offers connection, feedback and social learning. - Medication Management
While no medication “cures” personality disorders, with psychiatric support, it can help manage co-occurring issues like anxiety, depression or mood instability. - Life Skills and Relapse Prevention
Many programs include training in communication, boundaries, self-care and long-term planning to promote recovery after discharge.
How to Find Personality Disorder Therapy Near You
If you’re searching online for “personality disorder therapy near me,” here are some starting points:
- Use therapist directories that allow filters for specialization.
- Call local mental health clinics or hospitals.
- Reach out to a mental health hotline for referrals based on your location and insurance.
- Look for programs that explicitly mention experience with personality disorders or trauma-informed care.
Some programs focus specifically on BPD or complex trauma, while others take a broader approach to emotion dysregulation and behavioral health.
Can You Admit Yourself, or Do You Need a Referral?
In most cases, you can check yourself in voluntarily. Some facilities may require an intake screening or recommendation from a mental health provider, but many accept self-referrals, especially if you’re motivated to seek treatment.
When calling a facility, be prepared to discuss:
- Your current symptoms and history
- Any recent crises or hospitalizations
- Previous therapy or medications
- Insurance or payment questions
Many programs will walk you through the process and help you decide if their services are the right fit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. If you’re struggling with symptoms that feel unmanageable or not improving in outpatient therapy, checking into a residential program may be a good option. You don’t need to wait until you’re in crisis to seek intensive help.
Dialectical behavior therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy are two of the most effective and widely used approaches. Some people also benefit from schema therapy, mentalization-based therapy or trauma-informed care.
The length of stay can vary. Inpatient programs may last a few weeks, while residential or long-term programs can range from 30 days to several months. Aftercare and ongoing therapy are important for continued progress.
Many insurance plans cover residential or outpatient treatment for mental health disorders, including personality disorders. Always confirm coverage details directly with the provider or your insurance company.
One experience doesn’t define all care. Personality disorders are often misunderstood, but many programs specialize in providing nonjudgmental, trauma-informed support. You deserve help that works for you.
You’re Not Broken — You Deserve Support
Living with a personality disorder can feel isolating, confusing or exhausting. But it’s not a life sentence. With the right treatment, support and environment, healing is possible.
Rehab isn’t just for people in crisis. It’s for anyone who wants space to understand themselves, build healthier patterns and reconnect with life on their own terms.
If you’re unsure where to start or how to get into a program, the Mental Health Hotline is here to help. Our free, confidential hotline can connect you with resources, answer your questions and support you in taking the next step.
