Photo of Aasta Knox, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in New York, NY
Aasta Knox
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001  (Online Only)
I am experienced with multiple mental health disorders such as major depression, bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety, ADHD, cognitive issues, PTSD, OCD, and panic disorder.
All patients are ideal to me. They come with a unique set of circumstances that require individualized treatment plans. The treatment will consist of medication management (if required), referrals, and counseling. The goal is to return the individual to a healthier self in mind and body. I can offer comprehensive care consisting psychiatric medication management in collaboration with your other treating providers.
I am experienced with multiple mental health disorders such as major depression, bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety, ADHD, cognitive issues, PTSD, OCD, and panic disorder.
All patients are ideal to me. They come with a unique set of circumstances that require individualized treatment plans. The treatment will consist of medication management (if required), referrals, and counseling. The goal is to return the individual to a healthier self in mind and body. I can offer comprehensive care consisting psychiatric medication management in collaboration with your other treating providers.
(708) 787-3989 View (708) 787-3989
Photo of Mary E. Theodore, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Mary E. Theodore, MD, MPH
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
Thank you for visiting my profile. I am a Board Certified psychiatrist with over twenty years experience taking care of patients. Practicing for all these years in a field that I love, I have developed deep and lasting bonds with many of them. I am both a psycho-pharmacologist and a psycho-therapist. I treat numerous psychiatric & personality disorders but specialize in Major Depression, Bipolar Disorder, adult ADHD, Anxiety Disorders, Substance Abuse Disorders, Women's Mental Health, and HIV psychiatry. My goal is to help you create solutions and restore balance and well being in your life.
Thank you for visiting my profile. I am a Board Certified psychiatrist with over twenty years experience taking care of patients. Practicing for all these years in a field that I love, I have developed deep and lasting bonds with many of them. I am both a psycho-pharmacologist and a psycho-therapist. I treat numerous psychiatric & personality disorders but specialize in Major Depression, Bipolar Disorder, adult ADHD, Anxiety Disorders, Substance Abuse Disorders, Women's Mental Health, and HIV psychiatry. My goal is to help you create solutions and restore balance and well being in your life.
(646) 593-2134 View (646) 593-2134
Photo of Edward K Afful, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in New York, NY
Edward K Afful
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10014
Feeling down, low or sad? Anxious, irritable? Experiencing mood swings, panic attacks? Are you experiencing intrusive thoughts or hearing voices? Or you need a provider to hear you out and offer support and guidance to make the day a little better? Mr Afful can help you or your loved one manage anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, attention-deficit disorders as well as many other mental illnesses.
Feeling down, low or sad? Anxious, irritable? Experiencing mood swings, panic attacks? Are you experiencing intrusive thoughts or hearing voices? Or you need a provider to hear you out and offer support and guidance to make the day a little better? Mr Afful can help you or your loved one manage anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, attention-deficit disorders as well as many other mental illnesses.
(914) 350-4238 View (914) 350-4238
Photo of East Coast Telepsychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in New York, NY
East Coast Telepsychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001  (Online Only)
Hello, I am Amy Pharr, a Family Nurse Practitioner of 29 years and a Family Psychiatric Mental Health NP of 19 years comfortable with seeing clients of all ages with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, ADHD, Impulse Control Disorders, and PTSD. My ideal client would have some sort of trauma history - whether it be mental, sexual, physical, or emotional -- needing medication management and therapy. I see people in NY, FL, SC and Virginia. My clients want to be able to sleep, go about their day without flashbacks or affect from triggers, and to merely live with some sort of pleasure and "normalcy" in life.
Hello, I am Amy Pharr, a Family Nurse Practitioner of 29 years and a Family Psychiatric Mental Health NP of 19 years comfortable with seeing clients of all ages with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, ADHD, Impulse Control Disorders, and PTSD. My ideal client would have some sort of trauma history - whether it be mental, sexual, physical, or emotional -- needing medication management and therapy. I see people in NY, FL, SC and Virginia. My clients want to be able to sleep, go about their day without flashbacks or affect from triggers, and to merely live with some sort of pleasure and "normalcy" in life.
(843) 960-3155 View (843) 960-3155
Photo of Sarah Kent, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in New York, NY
Sarah Kent
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CPNP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10017
I have successfully treated patients who suffer from Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Insomnia, Bipolar Disorder, Dementia, Hallucinations and Delusions as well as addiction and alcoholism. I have worked with patients as young as 2 years old and as old as 105 years old.
I have successfully treated patients who suffer from Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Insomnia, Bipolar Disorder, Dementia, Hallucinations and Delusions as well as addiction and alcoholism. I have worked with patients as young as 2 years old and as old as 105 years old.
(516) 701-2131 View (516) 701-2131
Photo of Maribeth Evans, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in New York, NY
Maribeth Evans
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10038  (Online Only)
Whether you are seeking assistance for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma-related issues, or any other mental health concern, I am here to provide the support and guidance you need.
At the forefront of mental health care, psychiatric nurse practitioners are pioneering a new era of treatment through telehealth. With over 15 years of invaluable experience in psychiatric nursing, nursing education, and a passionate commitment to volunteer EMS, I am proud to lead this transformative movement, offering compassionate care. Having someone in your life who can provide support and guidance without judgment or bias can be incredibly valuable. 1. Unbiased Perspective, 2.Supportive Environment 3. Emotional Support 4. Guidance and Advice 5. Validation and Empathy
Whether you are seeking assistance for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma-related issues, or any other mental health concern, I am here to provide the support and guidance you need.
At the forefront of mental health care, psychiatric nurse practitioners are pioneering a new era of treatment through telehealth. With over 15 years of invaluable experience in psychiatric nursing, nursing education, and a passionate commitment to volunteer EMS, I am proud to lead this transformative movement, offering compassionate care. Having someone in your life who can provide support and guidance without judgment or bias can be incredibly valuable. 1. Unbiased Perspective, 2.Supportive Environment 3. Emotional Support 4. Guidance and Advice 5. Validation and Empathy
(347) 848-1030 x102 View (347) 848-1030 x102
Photo of Victoriya Slavich, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in New York, NY
Victoriya Slavich
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10128  (Online Only)
Victoriya has experience in working with individuals, couples and families of diverse ages and cultural backgrounds experiencing anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, compulsive behaviors, ADHD/ADD, relationship conflicts, sexual issues, life transitions, professional difficulties, post-traumatic stress, personality disorders, substance abuse and addiction.
Victoriya utilizes a culturally competent and holistic approach that is tailored to each client’s individual needs, understanding that everyone’s path to wellbeing is a unique journey. She combines her knowledge of psychopharmacology and psychotherapy to provide each client with a treatment plan that aligns with their goals and lifestyle. She strives to create a safe space for clients to feel empowered to be active participants in their mental health care. She utilizes rational emotive behavior therapy and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing alongside medication management to tailor each client’s treatment plan.
Victoriya has experience in working with individuals, couples and families of diverse ages and cultural backgrounds experiencing anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, compulsive behaviors, ADHD/ADD, relationship conflicts, sexual issues, life transitions, professional difficulties, post-traumatic stress, personality disorders, substance abuse and addiction.
Victoriya utilizes a culturally competent and holistic approach that is tailored to each client’s individual needs, understanding that everyone’s path to wellbeing is a unique journey. She combines her knowledge of psychopharmacology and psychotherapy to provide each client with a treatment plan that aligns with their goals and lifestyle. She strives to create a safe space for clients to feel empowered to be active participants in their mental health care. She utilizes rational emotive behavior therapy and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing alongside medication management to tailor each client’s treatment plan.
(646) 776-3647 View (646) 776-3647
Photo of Gauri Khurana, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Gauri Khurana
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10003
I believe that each individual is unique and requires a personalized approach to therapy. Drawing from my training at Columbia and Yale, I treat people going through difficult life circumstances including relationship difficulties, family problems, anxiety, trauma and job stress. I also have expertise in working with a range of psychiatric illnesses, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and OCD. I have a special interest in working with college and graduate students and patients with complex trauma histories. By integrating psychotherapy with medication management, I strive to help patients attain their goals.
I believe that each individual is unique and requires a personalized approach to therapy. Drawing from my training at Columbia and Yale, I treat people going through difficult life circumstances including relationship difficulties, family problems, anxiety, trauma and job stress. I also have expertise in working with a range of psychiatric illnesses, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and OCD. I have a special interest in working with college and graduate students and patients with complex trauma histories. By integrating psychotherapy with medication management, I strive to help patients attain their goals.
(347) 354-1116 View (347) 354-1116
Photo of Evelyn A Stephens MD PC, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Evelyn A Stephens MD PC
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10025
Hi there, I have been trained to treat many psychiatric illnesses and issues, with both medication and therapy. The different types of therapy I use include DBT, CBT, supportive and psychodynamic therapy. My patient population ranges from children as young as 6 years old to adults. The majority of children I work with are struggling with anxiety or ADHD, often both. The adolescents and adults that I treat have a variety of issues, including anxiety, substance abuse, eating disorders and mood disorders, such as depression and bipolar disorder.
Hi there, I have been trained to treat many psychiatric illnesses and issues, with both medication and therapy. The different types of therapy I use include DBT, CBT, supportive and psychodynamic therapy. My patient population ranges from children as young as 6 years old to adults. The majority of children I work with are struggling with anxiety or ADHD, often both. The adolescents and adults that I treat have a variety of issues, including anxiety, substance abuse, eating disorders and mood disorders, such as depression and bipolar disorder.
(347) 508-8094 View (347) 508-8094
Photo of Mayumi Okuda Benavides, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Mayumi Okuda Benavides
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10168  (Online Only)
As an internationally recognized expert in the treatment of anxiety (social anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, generalized anxiety, panic disorder) and mood disorders (depression, bipolar disorder), and trauma (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder), I bring years of experience working with patients from around the world.
I want to congratulate you on taking the first steps towards self-improvement. You’ve tried everything: therapy, mindfulness, lifestyle changes, but are still struggling. I understand that making that first appointment can often be one of the biggest hurdles. As your psychiatrist, I will work closely with you every step of the way to determine the best treatment that is tailored specifically to your personal needs.
As an internationally recognized expert in the treatment of anxiety (social anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, generalized anxiety, panic disorder) and mood disorders (depression, bipolar disorder), and trauma (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder), I bring years of experience working with patients from around the world.
I want to congratulate you on taking the first steps towards self-improvement. You’ve tried everything: therapy, mindfulness, lifestyle changes, but are still struggling. I understand that making that first appointment can often be one of the biggest hurdles. As your psychiatrist, I will work closely with you every step of the way to determine the best treatment that is tailored specifically to your personal needs.
(347) 252-9942 View (347) 252-9942
Photo of Zorica Filipovic-Jewell, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Zorica Filipovic-Jewell
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
I have a strong commitment to the well-being of my patients. My goal is to enable them to move on and maintain optimum quality of life, by providing support and a cutting edge, evidence-based care. After a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation and assessing individual's goals, together we discuss findings and recommendations and create strategy with a specific treatment plan. I work with individuals experiencing wide range of psychiatric issues, such as anxiety, relationship issues, career problems, OCD, PTSD, depression, bipolar disorder, etc. I enjoy working with patients of all ethnicities/religions/sexual orientations/identities.
I have a strong commitment to the well-being of my patients. My goal is to enable them to move on and maintain optimum quality of life, by providing support and a cutting edge, evidence-based care. After a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation and assessing individual's goals, together we discuss findings and recommendations and create strategy with a specific treatment plan. I work with individuals experiencing wide range of psychiatric issues, such as anxiety, relationship issues, career problems, OCD, PTSD, depression, bipolar disorder, etc. I enjoy working with patients of all ethnicities/religions/sexual orientations/identities.
(646) 970-9632 View (646) 970-9632
Photo of Jordana Michele Cotton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in New York, NY
Jordana Michele Cotton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, PMHCNS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10065
I have expertise in treating insomnia, depression, generalized anxiety (worry), panic disorder, OCD, specific phobias, attentional disorders (ADHD), addictions, disordered eating, bipolar I and II disorders, and long covid (PASC).
I am a Doctoral trained Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 20+ years of health care experience and 16 years of psychopharmacology and psychotherapy expertise. I received my Doctorate and Master’s degrees from the prestigious Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) IHP in Boston. I provide a safe environment and partnership with my clients. I customize pharmaceutical and therapy solutions based on individual needs.
I have expertise in treating insomnia, depression, generalized anxiety (worry), panic disorder, OCD, specific phobias, attentional disorders (ADHD), addictions, disordered eating, bipolar I and II disorders, and long covid (PASC).
I am a Doctoral trained Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 20+ years of health care experience and 16 years of psychopharmacology and psychotherapy expertise. I received my Doctorate and Master’s degrees from the prestigious Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) IHP in Boston. I provide a safe environment and partnership with my clients. I customize pharmaceutical and therapy solutions based on individual needs.
(516) 701-3021 View (516) 701-3021
Photo of Evelyn A Stephens MD PC, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Evelyn A Stephens MD PC
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10025
Hi there, I have been trained to treat many psychiatric illnesses and issues, with both medication and therapy. The different types of therapy I use include DBT, CBT, supportive and psychodynamic therapy. My patient population ranges from children as young as 6 years old to adults. The majority of children I work with are struggling with anxiety or ADHD, often both. The adolescents and adults that I treat have a variety of issues, including anxiety, substance abuse, eating disorders and mood disorders, such as depression and bipolar disorder.
Hi there, I have been trained to treat many psychiatric illnesses and issues, with both medication and therapy. The different types of therapy I use include DBT, CBT, supportive and psychodynamic therapy. My patient population ranges from children as young as 6 years old to adults. The majority of children I work with are struggling with anxiety or ADHD, often both. The adolescents and adults that I treat have a variety of issues, including anxiety, substance abuse, eating disorders and mood disorders, such as depression and bipolar disorder.
(347) 321-9712 View (347) 321-9712
Photo of Tahara Miah, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in New York, NY
Tahara Miah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10035
I have experience working with chronic mental illnesses such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, and anxiety.
Tahara Miah is a board certified psychiatric mental health practitioner. She emphasizes the mind-body connection and cultivating a therapeutic relationship. She encourage progress by providing medication management and therapeutic interventions that are tailored to you and relieve the symptoms that you are struggling with. She will work with you based on your individual needs starting from the first session.
I have experience working with chronic mental illnesses such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, and anxiety.
Tahara Miah is a board certified psychiatric mental health practitioner. She emphasizes the mind-body connection and cultivating a therapeutic relationship. She encourage progress by providing medication management and therapeutic interventions that are tailored to you and relieve the symptoms that you are struggling with. She will work with you based on your individual needs starting from the first session.
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Photo of Allison M. R. Lee, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Allison M. R. Lee
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
I was also previously a clinician-researcher at the Family Center for Bipolar at Beth Israel, giving me unique experience in treating bipolar and working with families.
I am committed to helping people address symptoms and difficulties compassionately and in ways that are tailored to the individual. I will listen carefully to you and make every effort to understand your unique preferences and needs. I have expertise in both psychotherapy and medication treatments and I will work with you to find the treatment plan that suits you best. My aim in psychotherapy is to help individuals relieve painful symptoms, achieve emotional freedom, and improve interpersonal relationships.
I was also previously a clinician-researcher at the Family Center for Bipolar at Beth Israel, giving me unique experience in treating bipolar and working with families.
I am committed to helping people address symptoms and difficulties compassionately and in ways that are tailored to the individual. I will listen carefully to you and make every effort to understand your unique preferences and needs. I have expertise in both psychotherapy and medication treatments and I will work with you to find the treatment plan that suits you best. My aim in psychotherapy is to help individuals relieve painful symptoms, achieve emotional freedom, and improve interpersonal relationships.
(347) 354-1960 View (347) 354-1960
Photo of Alanna Rodriguez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in New York, NY
Alanna Rodriguez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC, RN-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010
I specialize in working with young professionals in their 20s through 50s who experience high anxiety, depression, ADHD, or bipolar disorder. Through the use of medication management complimented by therapy, clients will experience a sense of freedom as they release the negative energy trapped in their bodies. After working with me, they are more in tune with their mind-body connection and feel equipped with the tools provided to process and deal with various emotions and experiences to achieve their perfect balance for whole-body wellness.
I specialize in working with young professionals in their 20s through 50s who experience high anxiety, depression, ADHD, or bipolar disorder. Through the use of medication management complimented by therapy, clients will experience a sense of freedom as they release the negative energy trapped in their bodies. After working with me, they are more in tune with their mind-body connection and feel equipped with the tools provided to process and deal with various emotions and experiences to achieve their perfect balance for whole-body wellness.
(646) 793-4258 View (646) 793-4258
Photo of Anne Hewitt, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in New York, NY
Anne Hewitt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10175
My specialties encompass a wide range of conditions, including Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Trauma, Bipolar, and ADHD.
I've experienced firsthand the weight of anxiety and the grip of depression. But from these struggles, I've emerged with a burning resolve to be a light for others. My aim is to serve as a beacon of hope and understanding, offering compassionate care rooted in honesty and clinical expertise. My approach to treatment is grounded in the belief that healing begins with feeling seen, heard, and understood.
My specialties encompass a wide range of conditions, including Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Trauma, Bipolar, and ADHD.
I've experienced firsthand the weight of anxiety and the grip of depression. But from these struggles, I've emerged with a burning resolve to be a light for others. My aim is to serve as a beacon of hope and understanding, offering compassionate care rooted in honesty and clinical expertise. My approach to treatment is grounded in the belief that healing begins with feeling seen, heard, and understood.
(716) 703-5130 View (716) 703-5130
Photo of Yvonne Lorelle Davis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in New York, NY
Yvonne Lorelle Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10031  (Online Only)
Are you looking for individualized compassionate care based on mutual respect and understanding in a judgement free environment?? Then you've come to the right place! I offer a collaborative approach to help people achieve their goals. I believe in treating each person as a unique individual, and together, we will find the best path toward wellness. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is experienced in treating depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder and other psychiatric disorders.
Are you looking for individualized compassionate care based on mutual respect and understanding in a judgement free environment?? Then you've come to the right place! I offer a collaborative approach to help people achieve their goals. I believe in treating each person as a unique individual, and together, we will find the best path toward wellness. I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is experienced in treating depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder and other psychiatric disorders.
(315) 302-1745 View (315) 302-1745
Photo of MindHealthNet, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in New York, NY
MindHealthNet
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10007  (Online Only)
Are you having trouble managing your emotions? Are you having difficulty with sleep? Do you have difficulty with attention, focus, and motivation to complete tasks? There is hope. I help people manage their anxiety, depression, and focus before it has a chance to control your life and well being. My practice is able to treat and prescribe medication for a range of mental health issues including but not limited to: Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, Depressive Disorders, Mood Disorders, Bipolar Disorders, or Personality Disorders.
Are you having trouble managing your emotions? Are you having difficulty with sleep? Do you have difficulty with attention, focus, and motivation to complete tasks? There is hope. I help people manage their anxiety, depression, and focus before it has a chance to control your life and well being. My practice is able to treat and prescribe medication for a range of mental health issues including but not limited to: Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, Depressive Disorders, Mood Disorders, Bipolar Disorders, or Personality Disorders.
(720) 594-5702 View (720) 594-5702
Photo of Shervin Parvizi Ravan, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Shervin Parvizi Ravan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10014  (Online Only)
My specialties include anxiety, depression, social phobia, performance anxiety, panic, ADHD, OCD, health anxiety, chronic dissatisfaction, bipolar disorder, trauma, grief, relationships, depersonalization, career/academic support, and life transitions such as career changes, divorce, breakups, and parenting.
I am a Columbia University trained psychiatrist and psychotherapist and the Medical Director of Greene Clinic. My treatment model combines evidence based psychotherapies, medications, nutrition and complementary/alternative interventions with the goal of providing comprehensive, well rounded, and individually focused care. Psychotherapy is central to my work and I utilize a variety of modalities including interpersonal psychoanalysis, psychodynamic psychotherapy, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). My approach is collaborative and non-authoritarian. OUT of network for all insurances.
My specialties include anxiety, depression, social phobia, performance anxiety, panic, ADHD, OCD, health anxiety, chronic dissatisfaction, bipolar disorder, trauma, grief, relationships, depersonalization, career/academic support, and life transitions such as career changes, divorce, breakups, and parenting.
I am a Columbia University trained psychiatrist and psychotherapist and the Medical Director of Greene Clinic. My treatment model combines evidence based psychotherapies, medications, nutrition and complementary/alternative interventions with the goal of providing comprehensive, well rounded, and individually focused care. Psychotherapy is central to my work and I utilize a variety of modalities including interpersonal psychoanalysis, psychodynamic psychotherapy, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). My approach is collaborative and non-authoritarian. OUT of network for all insurances.
(347) 514-9562 View (347) 514-9562
Bipolar Disorder Psychiatrists

What is the most successful approach to treating bipolar disorder?

Living with bipolar disorder can be challenging, and a number of therapies have been found effective in providing support to patients as they gain the skills to understand and manage the disorder. Family-focused therapy is often helpful for children and teens (the majority of cases develop before age 19); it aims to minimize mood cycling by improving family communication and reducing conflict. It also helps young people navigate the developmental challenges the disorder can create. Cognitive and behavioral therapy (CBT) and variants such as Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)help patients manage the thoughts and feelings that influence bipolar mood swings as well as develop specific behavioral strategies to counteract them.

What happens in therapy for bipolar disorder?

Because the patterns of mood switching and its triggers differ for each person and can change over time, mood tracking or monitoring becomes a basic way patients learn about the nature of their condition. One of the most common features of therapy is finding a workable method of mood monitoring, in which patients track their daily activities and rate their moods, then use the findings to adjust routines accordingly. Patients learn ways of handling the many stresses that arise in life so that they do not trigger mood swings.

What kinds of problems does therapy help with?

Like many other mental health disorders, BPD is heavily influenced by stress; therapy provides skills for coping with stressors of all kinds. Therapy is extremely important for helping individuals identify the situations that may trigger mood switching, so that mood swings can be prevented. Therapy may especially target recognition of the early stages of mood change so that they can be managed. In addition, therapy helps patients deal with the significant amount of turbulence the disorder can create in relationships and in work life.

What is the goal of therapy for bipolar disorder?

Therapy helps patients set up their lives to maintain stability so that their mood isn’t constantly threatened by daily events. Perhaps the first task of therapy is to educate people about the nature of the disorder. At the same time, a primary goal of therapy is to enhance adherence to drug treatment. Extended periods of mood stability can prompt patients to discontinue medication, triggering relapse, while the early phases of manic episodes can feel so energizing that patients stop medication, ushering in full-blown mania and the altered self-perception that can lead to destructive behaviors. Another major goal of therapy is to understand one’s mood patterns so as to minimize both the frequency and intensity of mood cycling.