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Discover how starting dependent personality disorder therapy can support your own journey toward a happier, more fulfilling life.
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Dependent personality disorder therapy from our therapists in Alexandria, VA helps clients establish their individuality and self-reliance, as those with dependent personality disorder harshly criticize themselves and underestimate their abilities.
Dependent personality disorder therapy often involves exploration into one’s past — specifically, events or relationships that may have led to the development of their dependent personality disorder. These experiences and their subsequent behaviors are discussed to help one develop healthier behaviors moving forward.
Dependent personality disorder therapy at Thriveworks is conducted both in person and online by video. We encourage you to choose the option that works best for you.
Dependent personality disorder with a provider at Thriveworks in Alexandria, VA is a short-term therapy, as long-form treatment can lead to the development of a dependence on one’s therapist.
Dependent personality disorder is characterized by a need to be care for, difficulty establishing mutual relationships, low self-esteem, and a deep desire to please others. It can lead to significant personal and professional challenges in an individual’s life, but effective treatments are available. Often, therapists and psychologists combine some form of psychotherapy with medication to help clients establish their individuality and self-reliance.
Thriveworks Alexandria offers treatment for dependent personality disorder, and our staff has helped many people learn that they are capable and resourceful.
Before diagnosing dependent personality disorder, age and cultural factors must be considered. For example, young teens may be dependent upon their parents in a way that is developmentally appropriate. This does not indicate a personality disorder. Similarly, cultures that values deferential or passive treatment for authority figures are not displaying a personality disorder.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) describes how dependent personality disorder (301.6[F70.7]) usually displays diagnosable symptoms when people transition from adolescents into early adulthood. People often have difficulty establishing an adult life—functioning independently and self-sufficiently. Dependent personality disorder can also raise people’s risk of other personality and adjustment disorders, anxiety, and depression.
Two key beliefs fuel dependent personality disorder. The first belief is that individuals cannot fully rely upon themselves to meet their own psychological and physical needs. The second belief is that individuals need someone else to care for them. People with this disorder may display clingy behavior and have separation anxiety. They may also be overly compliant—accepting criticism and disapproval of themselves without question. Many times, individuals with dependent personality disorder harshly criticism themselves and underestimate their own abilities.
The DSM-5 gives detailed diagnostics for dependent personality disorder. To be diagnosed, individuals must display:
In addition, they will display at least five of the following:
These symptoms often inhibit people’s ability to function well in social and professional settings. People may have small social circles—limited to those who will care for them in some way. They may also struggle in the work place as their lack of confidence and ability can lead to poor performance.
If you are ready to meet with a therapist, contact Thriveworks Alexandria, VA (Franconia) today.
Includes individual, couples, child/ teen, & family therapy
Includes reducing symptoms with medication & management
Friday | 8:00am - 9:00pm | |
Saturday | 8:00am - 9:00pm | |
Sunday | 8:00am - 9:00pm | |
Monday | 8:00am - 9:00pm | |
Tuesday | 8:00am - 9:00pm | |
Wednesday | 8:00am - 9:00pm | |
Thursday | 8:00am - 9:00pm |
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Friday | 8:00am - 9:30pm | |
Saturday | 8:00am - 6:00pm | |
Sunday | 8:00am - 6:00pm | |
Monday | 8:00am - 9:30pm | |
Tuesday | 8:00am - 9:30pm | |
Wednesday | 8:00am - 9:30pm | |
Thursday | 8:00am - 9:30pm |
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