Frontiers in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy for Personality Disorders

Abstract

Clinicians generally find individuals with personality disorders to be challenging to treat, especially compared to clients who have only a straightforward depression or anxiety disorder. In this article we will summarise research on the efficacy of cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) for personality disorders. Then we will focus on the conceptualisation and treatment of CBT for personality disorders that is based on the work of Aaron Beck and colleagues; that is, it is predicated upon the cognitive model of psychopathology. Next, we will describe two other forms of treatment with cognitive behavioural roots: schema therapy and dialectical behaviour therapy. A final section will suggest future directions.