Reframing the narrative: A fresh look at personality disorders in practice

Facilitator: Anita Federici, PhD, CPsych, FAED. 

Description:  Personality disorders (PDs) are complex and often misunderstood conditions marked by long-standing patterns in thinking, emotion regulation, and interpersonal behavior. While the DSM-5 categorizes ten PDs across three clusters—A (eccentric), B (emotional/erratic), and C (anxious/fearful)—real-world presentations are rarely so clear-cut. Misconceptions and stigma continue to persist, even among helping professionals.

This two-day interactive training is designed for professionals who want to improve their ability to assess, conceptualize, and compassionately respond to clients with personality disorders. We will explore how PDs intersect with trauma, eating disorders, substance use, and emotional dysregulation—and what to do when standard approaches fall short.

Drawing from current literature, neuroscience, and clinical case examples, this workshop provides practical tools to build confidence in assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning, and client conversations. Participants will leave with a clearer framework for understanding and supporting adults with personality disorders—without pathologizing or losing hope.

Learning objectives: 

• Understand the DSM-5 framework for personality disorders, including common myths and misconceptions
• Identify similarities and distinctions among the three PD clusters (A, B, and C)
• Describe how neurobiological factors shape emotional and interpersonal patterns in PDs with specific focus on borderline and narcissistic personality disorders
• Apply structured assessment tools and screening measures in your practice
• Strengthen communication skills when discussing PD diagnoses and conceptualizations with clients and teams
• Design more targeted, empathetic, and evidence-informed treatment plans for individuals with PDs
• Describe options for helping family members

Teaching Format

•    Interactive didactic segments

•    Case-based discussion and clinical examples

•    Role-play and practice scenarios

•    Q&A segments

•    Take-home handouts and client-friendly resources

Audio/visual recording disclaimer: Please note that this training will be recorded. We kindly ask that you please review the audio/visual consent form.

OPA employees, members, associates and affiliates can use discount code OPA20 to receive 20% off all upcoming programs (cannot be used in conjunction with other promotions/discounts).