Personality disorders fall into three clusters: Cluster A (odd/eccentric), Cluster B (dramatic/emotional) and Cluster C (anxious/fearful). This course gives mental health professionals a detailed overview of the main types in each group as set out in diagnostic criteria. Participants study the core symptoms, patterns of behavior, and underlying emotional and cognitive traits of the different disorders. Clinical themes include the difficulty of diagnosis, co-occurring conditions, transference and countertransference, and keeping clients engaged in treatment. The course also presents general therapeutic recommendations and evidence-informed strategies, among them structure, boundaries, validation and planning treatment over the long term. Case examples and discussion build clinicians’ skill at assessing, conceptualizing and supporting people with complex personality dynamics.
Upon completion of this training, participants will be able to
- Identify and differentiate the key features, symptom patterns, and diagnostic criteria of the major personality disorder categories (Clusters A, B, and C).
- Analyze and apply clinical considerations such as comorbidity, treatment resistance, and therapeutic alliance when working with individuals diagnosed with personality disorders.
- Demonstrate the ability to implement general therapeutic strategies and interventions, including boundary-setting, validation, and long-term treatment planning, to effectively support clients with personality disorders.
Syllabus:
Introduction
Objective #1: Foundations of Personality Disorders
- Definition and Diagnostic Criteria
- Clusters (A, B, C) Overview
- Common Misconceptions
Objective #2: Understanding Clinical Presentation
- Patterns of Thinking, Feeling, and Behavior
- Interpersonal Challenges
- Functional Impact
Objective #3: Assessment and Case Conceptualization
- Identifying Key Traits
- Differential Considerations
- Long-Term Patterns vs. Acute Symptoms
Objective #4: Treatment and Clinical Strategies
- Therapeutic Approaches (e.g., CBT, DBT)
- Managing Boundaries and Expectations
- Building Therapeutic Alliance
Summary/Q&A
Social workers completing this course receive 3 Clinical asynchronous continuing education credits.
For other board approvals, this course qualifies for 3 Clinical continuing education training.
Instructor: Diane Bigler, LCSW, LSCSW
Recording Date: April 14, 2026
CEUS On-Demand, LLC, provider #2274, is approved as an ACE provider to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Regulatory boards are the final authority on courses accepted for continuing education credit. ACE provider approval period: 08/7/2026 - 08/6/2027. Social workers completing this course receive 3hrs Clinical continuing education credits.
CEUs On-Demand, LLC has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 7091. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. CEUs On-Demand, LLC is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.
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Request for Special Accommodations: Learners can request special accommodations by contacting the administrative team at admin@ceus-ondemand.com