Understanding Personality Disorders (Virtual)

This course provides an overview of personality disorders to help human services professionals better understand and identify the signs and symptoms of the ten personality disorders in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 5 (DSM-5). Class participants will review diagnostic criteria and learn some effective ways of interacting with clients that may present with these diagnoses. Case studies will allow students to identify clients with these diagnoses and learn effective interventions with this population.

After attending this training, participants will be able to:

• Better understand the signs and symptoms of personality disorders when they are present in clients
• Recognize if the symptoms of a personality disorder could interfere with a person’s ability to parent safely
• Participate in case studies in which they will apply their knowledge to respond to realistic and familiar situations
• Develop at least one skillful intervention that will allow for more effective work with clients with these diagnoses
• By becoming aware of the possible etiology of personality disorders, become more accepting of some challenging behaviors and less judgmental of the clients they serve