In this episode of the Personality Couch Podcast, we (licensed clinical psychologists Doc Bok and Doc Fish) dive into Avoidant Personality Disorder, exploring Dr. Theodore Millon's six subtypes. We discuss a few interesting historical names before jumping into the characteristics of mild (Anxiously & Imaginatively shy); moderate (Hypersensitively & Phobicly Reticent); and severe (Conflicted & Self-Deserting) subtypes. Our conversation also critiques Millon's work, questioning the distinctiveness of avoidant traits compared to other personality disorders, and we invite listeners/viewers to share their thoughts and opinions.
🆘In need of psychodynamic therapy or a psychological evaluation? OR are you a provider stuck on a tricky case? To schedule with us, please visit the practice website and fill out the inquiry form! 👉https://www.questpsych.org. Clinicians use the email listed on the website.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction & Historical Names
05:18 Millon's Six Subtypes of Avoidant Personality
5:38 Mild Type Overview
6:44 Anxiously Shy Type
9:14 Imaginatively Shy Type
12:05 Moderate Level Overview
12:28 Hypersensitively Reticent Type
14:31 Phobicly Reticent Type
16:55 Severe Level Overview
17:29 Conflicted Avoidant Type
19:40 Self-Deserting Avoidant Type
22:21 Our Opinions About the Subtypes
26:14 Summary & Conclusion
Information
- Show
- FrequencyUpdated Biweekly
- PublishedFebruary 10, 2026 at 8:00 AM UTC
- Length27 min
- Episode47
- RatingClean
