Understanding & Working with Personality Disorder

Course Aim:

Personality disorder is a condition that can be difficult to describe or diagnose. It is a major challenge in the field of psychiatry. It is often characterised by a pervasive pattern of mood instability and difficult behaviours. This often creates a sense of confusion and can trigger negative feelings in those working with them.

This one day course is aimed at anyone working in a supportive role with people who wish to gain a deeper understanding of this complex and troubling condition and how it is different from the more familiar mental health issues.

Course objectives and content:

• To explore the nature of ‘personality’

• To gain a deeper understanding of the nature of the types of different personality disorders ( Including narcissistic and borderline) and the “3 clusters”

•  How to recognise the symptoms that characterise personality disorder

• To explore the theories around the causes of personality disorder, especially problems arising from difficulties in early bonding and attachment issues

• To explore some of the difficulties in terms of working with personality disorder

• To explore the impact of destructive behaviours such as self-harm

•  To consider ways of managing own stress and feelings when working with those exhibiting personality difficulties

• To explore treatment options available in line with recent developments in psychological therapies such as Dialectical Behaviour Therapy and Stop and Think Group

• An awareness of good practice in the management of personality disorder