Personality Disorders Training Course

Personality disorders are complex mental health conditions that affect how individuals think, feel, and behave. They can significantly impact relationships, daily functioning, and the ability to cope with life’s challenges. For health and social care professionals, understanding personality disorders is vital in providing effective, compassionate, and safe support.

This free Personality Disorders Training Course introduces you to the key concepts, classifications, symptoms, and treatment approaches related to personality disorders. You will also explore the impact of stigma, the role of families, and practical strategies to improve care and communication.

Why Take This eLearning Course?

Personality disorders are often misunderstood and carry significant stigma. Yet, many people receiving care live with these conditions, often alongside other challenges such as anxiety, depression, or substance use. By taking this course, you will gain the knowledge and confidence to support individuals effectively and sensitively.

Here’s why this course is for you:

• Improve your understanding: Learn about the 10 types of personality disorders and their classification using the DSM-5-TR framework.
• Recognise symptoms and domains: Understand how cognitive, emotional, and interpersonal challenges present in daily life.
• Address comorbidities: Explore how conditions such as depression and substance use affect diagnosis and treatment.
• Learn treatment approaches: Gain insights into evidence-based therapies such as DBT and CBT, as well as the limited use of medication.
• Challenge stigma and misconceptions: Build awareness of how negative perceptions affect care and how to promote inclusive practice.
• Practical focus: Apply strategies to support individuals, families, and teams in real-world care settings.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

• Define personality disorders and explain their classification using DSM-5-TR categories.
• Identify the 10 distinct types of personality disorders and their features.
• Recognise the four key symptom domains and how they manifest.
• Explain common comorbidities and their impact on care and treatment.
• Understand risk factors and developmental influences.
• Describe therapeutic approaches including DBT, CBT, and pharmacotherapy.
• Support individuals and families with practical strategies and resources.
• Challenge stigma and misconceptions around personality disorders.
• Discuss current research and controversies in diagnosis and treatment.
• Apply practical techniques for managing challenges in therapy and care settings.

Target Audience

This course is designed for:

• Health and social care professionals who work with individuals with complex mental health needs.
• Carers and support workers seeking to improve their understanding of personality disorders.
• Team leaders and managers who need to guide staff in supporting individuals with personality disorders.
• Students and learners preparing for roles in mental health and social care.

No previous expertise is required. The course is structured for accessibility while offering depth for those already experienced in mental health care.

FAQ

What does the course cover?
The course covers everything from definitions and classifications of personality disorders, through to treatment approaches, stigma, and practical support strategies.

Can I apply what I learn straight away?
Yes. The course includes case studies, role-play examples, and practical techniques you can use in real-world care settings.

How long will it take?
This self-paced course typically takes 1 hour to complete, depending on your study time.

Will I receive a certificate?
Yes. On completion, you will receive a certificate to evidence your learning.

Is this course relevant to UK practice?
Yes. The content is tailored to UK health and social care contexts and aligns with current frameworks and practice.

Is this course CPD accredited?
Our courses are not currently CPD accredited, but we are working towards accreditation.

Personality disorders can be challenging to understand and support—but with the right knowledge and skills, you can make a lasting difference. This course equips you to provide informed, compassionate care and to challenge the stigma often associated with these conditions.

Join today and build your expertise in supporting individuals with personality disorders.