Personality disorders are often misunderstood — and even more often, misrepresented. They are not flaws in character or willpower, but deeply rooted emotional and relational patterns that make daily life, relationships, and self-understanding more difficult to navigate. These conditions are often shaped by trauma, early life experiences, or chronic emotional pain.
At Amity San Diego, we offer specialized, trauma-informed treatment for individuals living with personality disorders, especially when paired with substance use or other mental health challenges. Our outpatient programs provide clinical structure, emotional safety, and the skills needed to build a more grounded, self-aware life.
What Is a Personality Disorder?
A personality disorder is a long-standing pattern of thinking, feeling, and behaving that differs significantly from cultural expectations and causes distress or difficulty in life. These patterns affect how people see themselves, relate to others, and respond to stress.
Some of the most common types include:
Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) – Intense emotions, unstable relationships, fear of abandonment, impulsivity
Avoidant Personality Disorder – Deep sensitivity to rejection, social withdrawal, low self-worth
Narcissistic Personality Disorder – Challenges with empathy, self-image, and interpersonal sensitivity
Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD) – Perfectionism, control, and inflexibility that interfere with functioning
Dependent, Paranoid, or Schizotypal Personality Disorders – Patterns of over-reliance, suspicion, or distorted thinking
Many people with personality disorders also live with depression, anxiety, PTSD, or addiction — making dual diagnosis treatment essential for lasting recovery.
Signs You May Be Living with a Personality Disorder
Difficulty managing emotions or reacting strongly to minor events
A pattern of unstable or intense relationships
Chronic feelings of emptiness, loneliness, or identity confusion
Intense fear of abandonment or being alone
Self-harming behavior or emotional outbursts
Rigid thinking or persistent self-criticism
Ongoing struggles with addiction or impulsivity
If these experiences resonate with you, you’re not alone — and you’re not broken. With the right care, people with personality disorders can learn to regulate emotions, build stronger relationships, and find a more stable sense of self.
Our Approach to Personality Disorder Treatment
At Amity San Diego, we use a trauma-informed, integrative model to help individuals understand the roots of their behaviors — and replace painful patterns with healthier ones. We focus on real progress, emotional safety, and empowering each client with tools that work.
Treatment may include:
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) – A gold-standard approach for BPD and emotion regulation
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – To identify and challenge harmful thought patterns
Trauma-Informed Therapy – Addressing the underlying pain or neglect often tied to personality disorders
Medication Management – When clinically appropriate to support mood, anxiety, or impulse control
Group Therapy & Peer Support – Offering validation, skill-building, and connection
Family Therapy (Optional) – Helping loved ones understand how to support healing without enabling
We don’t pathologize or label. We meet you where you are, with care that is respectful, collaborative, and deeply human.
Dual Diagnosis: Personality Disorders and Substance Use
Many individuals living with personality disorders use substances to manage emotional pain, social anxiety, or identity struggles. At Amity, our dual diagnosis program treats both conditions simultaneously, ensuring recovery addresses every layer of the experience — not just the symptoms on the surface.
This integrated care improves emotional regulation, reduces relapse risk, and creates more sustainable healing — mentally and physically.
Our Outpatient Programs
Amity San Diego offers several levels of outpatient care tailored to your needs and goals:
Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) – Full-day, structured treatment with clinical support, therapy, and wellness activities
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) – Flexible care several days per week for continued healing while balancing life responsibilities
Alumni Support – Continued connection, accountability, and relapse prevention after primary treatment ends
Whether you’ve recently been diagnosed or have struggled for years without clarity, our team is here to walk with you — without judgment.
Reclaim Your Identity. Rewrite Your Story.
Verify Your Insurance
We understand that navigating the financial aspects of treatment can be challenging. Amity San Diego is here to help. Our team works with many insurance providers to make treatment as accessible as possible. Click below to verify your insurance and learn more about your coverage options. Our admissions team will guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have.
