In this article different psychodynamic approaches are discussed which are useful for a careful personality assessment before indicating and beginning the therapy. Successively, the structural diagnosis according to Kernberg, the spectrum of personality disorders as described by De Jonghe, the developmental profile according to Abraham and the psychodynamic assessment according to Gabbard are discussed. The different ways of assessment are compared with each other; advantages and disadvantages are discussed. If possible, an attempt has been made to integrate the different approaches with each other.