Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) is a mental health condition characterized by people having an unreasonably high sense of self-importance and an excessive desire for attention and admiration. People who are living with this condition struggle to handle criticism, and while they may appear confident, they find it hard to maintain long-term relationships. People who are living with NPD may also struggle with other mental health challenges and substance abuse. At Camelback Recovery, we provide narcissistic personality disorder treatment in Phoenix, AZ, delivering compassionate, expert-led care that can help people with NPD lead a relatively normal life.

Understanding Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD)

Individuals who are living with narcissistic personality disorder have a strong sense of self-importance, tend to engage in attention-seeking behaviors and want to be admired by others. They tend to be indifferent to the feelings of others and feel wounded if they’re criticized or not given the attention and treatment they believe they deserve. It’s estimated that around 6.2% of the population may experience some issues with NPD.

It’s important to make a distinction between narcissistic personality disorder and narcissistic traits. Understanding the signs and symptoms of narcissistic personality disorder is essential to identifying and treating it. With proper support from a mental health professional, many people can learn to develop coping skills and maintain positive relationships.

Treatment for narcissistic personality disorder typically involves talk therapy

What Is Narcissistic Personality Disorder?

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-5), a person may be diagnosed with narcissistic personality disorder if they have a pattern of grandiose behavior, a lack of empathy and a need for admiration that develops by early adulthood and is present in multiple different contexts. NPD is one of the 10 recognized personality disorders and affects people from all walks of life.

People who are living with the condition are more likely to experience other personality disorders, substance abuse or mood disorders. They’re also more likely to struggle in their personal and professional relationships and to have a lower quality of life than those without the condition.

Signs of Narcissistic Personality Disorder

Individuals living with NPD may exhibit some of these common traits:

  • An unreasonably high sense of their own self-importance
  • Feeling they deserve special privileges
  • The desire to be recognized as superior even in realms where they lack achievement
  • A belief that they’re superior to others
  • A tendency to be critical of others
  • Willingness to take advantage of people to get what they want
  • Fragile self-esteem
  • An inability to empathize with others
  • Difficulty adapting to change
  • Fear of failure
  • Inability to manage their emotions

What Causes Narcissistic Personality Disorder?

Personality disorders can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

  • Early life experiences. Receiving excessive criticism or praise disproportionate to their narcissistic behavior and achievements could shape how a child interacts with others as they age.
  • Neurobiology. The connection between brain structure/function and behavior can impact a person’s personality and may contribute to some personality disorders.
  • Genetic factors. People with a family history of mental health challenges may be at risk of developing personality disorders.

Is Narcissistic Personality Disorder Curable?

While NPD is a difficult condition to live with, people who recognize the issue and seek treatment can often learn to manage the condition and maintain successful interpersonal relationships.

At the moment, there isn’t a true “cure” for NPD disorder, but it’s possible to manage the symptoms and reduce the impact the condition has on day-to-day life. As with other mental health conditions and personality disorders, recovery can be a long journey, but it can lead to a fulfilling life.

Treatment for narcissistic personality disorder typically involves talk therapy

What to Expect from NPD Treatment

With treatment for NPD, it may be possible to:

  • Develop an improved sense of self-awareness
  • Learn to set healthy boundaries and cope with challenging situations
  • Prepare for stressful events and adapt to change
  • Regulate your emotions
  • Build healthy relationships with colleagues, friends and family members

Achieving these goals may require ongoing individual or group therapy. Working with an experienced team that offers evidence-based treatment tailored to the needs of each individual gives the best chances of success.

Learn how healing starts — explore our personalized NPD treatment approach.

Comprehensive Narcissistic Personality Disorder Treatment at Camelback Recovery

At Camelback Recovery, we take a holistic approach to personality disorder treatment. Our trauma-informed care methods are tailored to the individual and take into consideration comorbid conditions, such as substance use disorders, to help address the immediate challenges and underlying conditions that might otherwise hinder the recovery journey.

Treatment for narcissistic personality disorder typically involves talk therapy

Customized Treatment Plan for Narcissistic Personality Disorder

We tailor our plans based on each intake and the clinical needs and goals of the individual. After conducting a thorough evaluation of each person, our team develops personalized treatment plans built around evidence-based strategies. These plans are reviewed regularly to maintain progress and help each individual stay on track to long-term recovery.

Therapy for Narcissistic Personality Disorder

We use a variety of treatments, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), to help people develop effective coping strategies they can quickly implement in their daily lives. We also use EMDR therapy to support people as they process trauma and negative feelings, along with other group or individual therapies as appropriate.

No two treatment plans are the same. Our goal is to address NPD and any co-occurring psychiatric conditions or health problems that might hinder recovery.

Addressing Narcissistic Personality Disorder and Substance Abuse

Many people with personality disorders also have other medical conditions or are struggling with substance abuse. They may be dealing with failed relationships or be under significant distress because of issues at home or work and be driven to drug or alcohol abuse as a result of this.

The team at Camelback Recovery has extensive experience in delivering dual-diagnosis treatment and can address these challenges in a compassionate, understanding fashion.

Treatment Options for Narcissistic Personality Disorder in Phoenix, AZ

We offer both inpatient and outpatient options, enabling people to receive the professional help they require in a way that fits with their schedule, needs and preferences. Our luxury mental health rehab is conveniently located near the center of Phoenix and offers an accessible base for mental health care.

Outpatient and Inpatient Treatment

Our mental health inpatient treatment services enable people requiring dual-diagnosis support to stay at our facility and receive ongoing monitoring, medication management and support during the most crucial period of their treatment.

Those with lighter care needs can receive outpatient mental health care, remaining in the community so they can keep up with their work or family needs while still benefiting from a high level of support and care from our therapists and other mental health professionals.

Holistic and Evidence-Based Therapies

We offer numerous evidence-based therapies to facilitate both physical and emotional healing, including:

  • Mindfulness
  • Meditation
  • Nutrition advice
  • Yoga
  • Trauma resolution
  • Group and individual therapies

Ready to take the next step? Discover your treatment options today.

Types and Traits of Narcissistic Personality Disorder

NPD isn’t a one-size-fits-all diagnosis, and many of the traits associated with it are also seen in other personality disorders. Our team carefully assesses each individual to document their narcissistic personality disorder traits, how they present themselves and whether any other associated health problems or diagnoses might affect the NPD diagnosis.

Exploring Narcissistic Personality Disorder Types

There are two subclinical personality traits associated with narcissism: Grandiose narcissists tend to show more signs of dominance, self-assurance and a sense of superiority. Meanwhile, vulnerable narcissists struggle more with self-doubt, inadequacy and a desire for approval.

Depending on the traits shown, a person may require different coping mechanisms and a different approach to therapy to help them build healthy relationships.

Understanding Narcissistic Traits

Our therapists will examine a person’s traits, and if they have at least five of the traits associated with narcissism, they may qualify for a diagnosis of the condition. The care team will also consider which traits a person displays, as this will affect their self-image and the difficulties they may experience at work or in interpersonal relationships.

Why Choose Camelback Recovery for NPD Treatment in Phoenix?

Our client-first approach to therapy is built on evidence-based therapy and a trauma-informed approach to care. Our central Phoenix location, luxurious treatment centers and experienced, multidisciplinary care team ensure all patients receive the highest standards of care.

Trauma-Informed and Compassionate Approach

We understand that it can be difficult for people struggling with substance abuse and personality disorders to seek professional help. Our highly skilled team offers compassionate, confidential care that puts your individual needs first. From the initial psychiatric evaluations to discharge, you’ll receive the support required to build a sustainable, healthy life.

Licensed Experts and Proven Therapies

Our team has many years of experience treating substance use disorder, bipolar disorder and other mental health conditions. We’re trained in a variety of therapies and treatment methods to help individuals with NPD and co-occurring conditions learn how to build better relationships and improve their lives.

Trust your recovery to experts. See why clients choose Camelback Recovery.

Take the First Step Toward Healing and Self-Discovery

A diagnosis of narcissistic personality disorder can be worrying news, but it doesn’t have to be. Support is available, and the route to happier, healthier professional and personal relationships is just a phone call away.

If you’re struggling with NPD, contact Camelback Recovery today to book an initial consultation with one of our experienced therapists.