Personality Structures

Our personality is made up of the unique patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving that shape how we see the world and interact with others. Everyone has personality traits, like wanting to be liked, feeling emotional, or occasionally experiencing jealousy. These traits exist on a spectrum and are a normal part of being human.

However, when certain traits become rigid, intense, or interfere with daily life, they may be indicative of a personality disorder. A personality disorder can significantly impact your ability to cope with stress, maintain healthy relationships, and manage emotions. It can influence how you perceive and respond to the world around you, often leading to persistent difficulties in various areas of life.

There isn’t a single cause of personality disorders; rather, they are usually the result of a complex interplay of factors, including early relational experiences, trauma, and environmental influences. In therapy, we can explore how these patterns may have developed and work together towards greater self-understanding, flexibility, and healthier ways of relating to yourself and others.