Psychotherapy of personality disorders

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Psychology
• Health Economics

Background:

• Personality disorders are frequently misperceived as untreatable by healthcare providers and payers.
• This perception creates barriers to accessing necessary mental health services.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically review the empirical literature on the psychotherapeutic treatability of personality disorders (Axis II conditions).
• To discuss the implications of empirical findings for the duration of psychotherapy.
• To examine the cost-effectiveness of treating personality disorders.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of empirical studies on psychotherapy for personality disorders.
• Critical analysis of existing research findings.
• Discussion of treatment duration and economic factors.

Main Results:

• A growing body of empirical evidence supports the treatability of personality disorders through psychotherapy.
• Findings suggest that psychotherapy can be a viable and effective treatment approach.

Conclusions:

• Contrary to common belief, personality disorders are treatable with psychotherapy.
• Further research and policy changes are needed to reflect the evidence on treatment length and cost-effectiveness.