Photo of Kaori Kato, Psychologist in Brooklyn, NY
Kaori Kato
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11249
I am a clinical psychologist in Brooklyn, NY. I have been providing psychotherapy, couple’s counseling, and family therapy. I am also a director of Mobile Crisis Service and psychological/neuropsychological testing supervisor at New York Health + Hospitals. I have worked with children and adults with a wide range of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, ADHD, PTSD, addiction, and cognitive difficulties. I specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy and use integrative approach with other holistic and creative modalities.
I am a clinical psychologist in Brooklyn, NY. I have been providing psychotherapy, couple’s counseling, and family therapy. I am also a director of Mobile Crisis Service and psychological/neuropsychological testing supervisor at New York Health + Hospitals. I have worked with children and adults with a wide range of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, ADHD, PTSD, addiction, and cognitive difficulties. I specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy and use integrative approach with other holistic and creative modalities.
(718) 612-7155 View (718) 612-7155
Photo of Felicia Moholland, Art Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Felicia Moholland
Art Therapist, CAT-LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11222  (Online Only)
Her specialties include but are not limited to; autism, anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, personality disorders, sexual trauma, and childhood trauma.
Felicia is a humanistic based art therapist who is passionate about helping clients create a personal sense of identity within themselves and within society as a whole. She strives to use creative expression as a way to connect with oneself, and better understand individual feelings, thoughts, and boundaries. Felicia aims to foster an empathetic and accepting therapeutic environment for clients through the use of trauma informed care, and intersectionality. Her speciality is art and talk therapy, but she will also incorporate music, movement, drama, and poetry therapy when it maybe beneficial for the client.
Her specialties include but are not limited to; autism, anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, personality disorders, sexual trauma, and childhood trauma.
Felicia is a humanistic based art therapist who is passionate about helping clients create a personal sense of identity within themselves and within society as a whole. She strives to use creative expression as a way to connect with oneself, and better understand individual feelings, thoughts, and boundaries. Felicia aims to foster an empathetic and accepting therapeutic environment for clients through the use of trauma informed care, and intersectionality. Her speciality is art and talk therapy, but she will also incorporate music, movement, drama, and poetry therapy when it maybe beneficial for the client.
(718) 841-0928 View (718) 841-0928
Photo of Footprints to Feel Better, Pre-Licensed Professional in Brooklyn, NY
Footprints to Feel Better
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11212
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, borderline, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Rize-Up Together was started by three women of The Bronx who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities where confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Rize-Up Together began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, borderline, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Rize-Up Together was started by three women of The Bronx who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities where confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Rize-Up Together began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
(718) 550-8535 View (718) 550-8535
Photo of Footprints Mental Health Counseling, Pre-Licensed Professional in Brooklyn, NY
Footprints Mental Health Counseling
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11207
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, BPD, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities where confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Feel Better Therapy began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, BPD, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities where confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Feel Better Therapy began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
(646) 204-2295 View (646) 204-2295
Photo of Footprints Mental Health Counseling , Pre-Licensed Professional in Brooklyn, NY
Footprints Mental Health Counseling
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11205
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, BPD, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Feel Better Therapy began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, BPD, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Feel Better Therapy began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
(718) 550-5392 View (718) 550-5392
Photo of Allison Fuller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Allison Fuller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11211  (Online Only)
Allison Fuller, LCSW-R has a demonstrated history of integrating biopsychosocial, resiliency-oriented approaches for over 20 years. Allison uses a blended approach in her work with each person to best address that person’s needs utilizing a working knowledge of environmental, cultural and social factors affecting behavior patterns, wellness, and recovery. Allison has extensive experience working with individuals living with Depression, Anxiety, BiPolar, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders and other intellectual/developmental disabilities, as well as grief, trauma, interpersonal stressors and workplace challenges, among others.
Allison Fuller, LCSW-R has a demonstrated history of integrating biopsychosocial, resiliency-oriented approaches for over 20 years. Allison uses a blended approach in her work with each person to best address that person’s needs utilizing a working knowledge of environmental, cultural and social factors affecting behavior patterns, wellness, and recovery. Allison has extensive experience working with individuals living with Depression, Anxiety, BiPolar, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders and other intellectual/developmental disabilities, as well as grief, trauma, interpersonal stressors and workplace challenges, among others.
(332) 248-0927 View (332) 248-0927
Photo of Aaron Silverman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Aaron Silverman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11203
I can help you be you! I specialize in helping teens, young adults and adults be happy. Whether simple things left undone, or trauma like a parents' divorce, we are sent messages that we internalize while growing up. The life path of my personal journey has helped me to listen with empathy, insight and interest. I give people a safe space to share and grow. With the proper clinical relationship, I invite you to welcome emotional and professional health into your life. Through our shared minds, your uniquely human response to life can be found.
I can help you be you! I specialize in helping teens, young adults and adults be happy. Whether simple things left undone, or trauma like a parents' divorce, we are sent messages that we internalize while growing up. The life path of my personal journey has helped me to listen with empathy, insight and interest. I give people a safe space to share and grow. With the proper clinical relationship, I invite you to welcome emotional and professional health into your life. Through our shared minds, your uniquely human response to life can be found.
(917) 994-9429 View (917) 994-9429
Photo of Jessica Lauro, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Jessica Lauro
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11204
Hi, I'm Jessica Lauro. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 4 years of clinical experience. I provide psychotherapy with mindfulness guidance to help clients treat, manage, and work through anxiety, depression, OCD, ADD/ADHD, panic disorder, grief/loss, marriage issues, family issues, reconciliations, divorce, self-esteem issues, and many more. I use a mix of Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectical (DBT), and Experiential Therapy. I believe that respect and care are always thoughtfully maintained as a standard in my therapy practice.
Hi, I'm Jessica Lauro. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 4 years of clinical experience. I provide psychotherapy with mindfulness guidance to help clients treat, manage, and work through anxiety, depression, OCD, ADD/ADHD, panic disorder, grief/loss, marriage issues, family issues, reconciliations, divorce, self-esteem issues, and many more. I use a mix of Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectical (DBT), and Experiential Therapy. I believe that respect and care are always thoughtfully maintained as a standard in my therapy practice.
(929) 412-2297 View (929) 412-2297
Photo of Andrew J Rosenthal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Andrew J Rosenthal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MDiv, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11201
Feeling trapped, unable to express yourself, powerless to control your own emotions? Are you alone or isolated? I can help you to break free from the constraints of anxiety and depression and take control of your own life’s course. Therapy will help you to learn about how your past impacts your experience of the present.
Feeling trapped, unable to express yourself, powerless to control your own emotions? Are you alone or isolated? I can help you to break free from the constraints of anxiety and depression and take control of your own life’s course. Therapy will help you to learn about how your past impacts your experience of the present.
(718) 682-7509 View (718) 682-7509
Photo of Cherie Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Cherie Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11212  (Online Only)
Life can feel like a cluster of challenging, confusing, and never-ending hurdles. When left to tackle them on your own, it can sometimes feel overwhelming. I believe in creating a safe, non-judgmental, compassionate, and empowering space to process past difficulties, current stressors, and future anxieties. I aim to create an atmosphere of emotional safety, trust, and respect. My therapeutic style is a collaborative, client-centered and culturally sensitive approach. Together, we will explore obstacles that hinder your ability to reach your fullest potential and work to overcome your personal or professional difficulties.
Life can feel like a cluster of challenging, confusing, and never-ending hurdles. When left to tackle them on your own, it can sometimes feel overwhelming. I believe in creating a safe, non-judgmental, compassionate, and empowering space to process past difficulties, current stressors, and future anxieties. I aim to create an atmosphere of emotional safety, trust, and respect. My therapeutic style is a collaborative, client-centered and culturally sensitive approach. Together, we will explore obstacles that hinder your ability to reach your fullest potential and work to overcome your personal or professional difficulties.
(718) 684-9813 View (718) 684-9813
Photo of Marina M Chernyak, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Marina M Chernyak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11223
I have been a mental health professional for over 20 years. I received my Master's Degree in Social Work from New York University. My professional experience ranges from working with adults and the elderly, to young adults and teenagers. I see patients for individual therapy, couples therapy and family therapy. I specialize in a wide range of issues including but not limited to: anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorders, poor social skills, struggles with work life, struggles with personal life, vertigo, daytime sleepiness, addiction, eating disorders, anger management, people with immigration history or immigrant families, postpartum depression, phobias/panic attacks.
I have been a mental health professional for over 20 years. I received my Master's Degree in Social Work from New York University. My professional experience ranges from working with adults and the elderly, to young adults and teenagers. I see patients for individual therapy, couples therapy and family therapy. I specialize in a wide range of issues including but not limited to: anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorders, poor social skills, struggles with work life, struggles with personal life, vertigo, daytime sleepiness, addiction, eating disorders, anger management, people with immigration history or immigrant families, postpartum depression, phobias/panic attacks.
(646) 762-6166 View (646) 762-6166
Photo of Melissa Davis, Pre-Licensed Professional in Brooklyn, NY
Melissa Davis
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, MHC, LP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11214  (Online Only)
Weaving through life can be so many things. It can be joyful, exciting, stressful, overwhelming, really whatever word we want to place to describe it. At some points in time it can be incredibly difficult. Everyone has their own unique experiences in life, struggles and obstacles are part of it. It can be overwhelming at times. Learning how to navigate through the more difficult times can be challenging but ultimately rewarding.
Weaving through life can be so many things. It can be joyful, exciting, stressful, overwhelming, really whatever word we want to place to describe it. At some points in time it can be incredibly difficult. Everyone has their own unique experiences in life, struggles and obstacles are part of it. It can be overwhelming at times. Learning how to navigate through the more difficult times can be challenging but ultimately rewarding.
(718) 650-2849 View (718) 650-2849
Photo of Alona Perlin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Alona Perlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA , LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11214  (Online Only)
At the source, clients need to feel like someone genuinely cares for them. That is what I provide in my individual , couples and family sessions Every life experience is inherently unique, different and personal. I take your innermost thoughts and feelings seriously and focus deeply on your well-being. I do not turn down any clients unless I may not be the right person to help them at that time. My upmost goal is to help my clients feel special, safe and comfortable .
At the source, clients need to feel like someone genuinely cares for them. That is what I provide in my individual , couples and family sessions Every life experience is inherently unique, different and personal. I take your innermost thoughts and feelings seriously and focus deeply on your well-being. I do not turn down any clients unless I may not be the right person to help them at that time. My upmost goal is to help my clients feel special, safe and comfortable .
(929) 822-6156 View (929) 822-6156
Photo of Lisandry Segura, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Lisandry Segura
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11208  (Online Only)
Hello, I am Lisandry Segura. I’m a bilingual English/Spanish licensed Social Worker with 18 years of experience providing counseling and some clinical therapy and to clients in need. I earned my Bachelors in Communication from Herbert Lehman College and my Masters in Clinical Social Work from Fordham University. I’ve worked in many different clinical settings ever since. I am a passionate and empathetic therapist with strong counseling abilities and an understanding of interpersonal familial relationships. I have experience leading clients through a strength-based approach and play therapy for children.
Hello, I am Lisandry Segura. I’m a bilingual English/Spanish licensed Social Worker with 18 years of experience providing counseling and some clinical therapy and to clients in need. I earned my Bachelors in Communication from Herbert Lehman College and my Masters in Clinical Social Work from Fordham University. I’ve worked in many different clinical settings ever since. I am a passionate and empathetic therapist with strong counseling abilities and an understanding of interpersonal familial relationships. I have experience leading clients through a strength-based approach and play therapy for children.
(929) 416-6872 View (929) 416-6872
Photo of Joel Taveras in Brooklyn, NY
Joel Taveras
MA, CRC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11235
It is to be expected with so many turbulent events around the globe that a lot of deep rooted issues creep up to the surface, be it anxiety, depression, negative thinking, suicidal ideation or substance abuse in many. How could it not with all the changes happening in our world today bound to have an impact of sorts on us Psychologically, however, they should not stop us from living a healthy life. I am more than happy & open to work with anyone willing to forge ahead & achieve their goals, be they Vocational, Mental Health related, Physical Health related or development of Coping Skills. Open to clients. Starting 12/1/23.
It is to be expected with so many turbulent events around the globe that a lot of deep rooted issues creep up to the surface, be it anxiety, depression, negative thinking, suicidal ideation or substance abuse in many. How could it not with all the changes happening in our world today bound to have an impact of sorts on us Psychologically, however, they should not stop us from living a healthy life. I am more than happy & open to work with anyone willing to forge ahead & achieve their goals, be they Vocational, Mental Health related, Physical Health related or development of Coping Skills. Open to clients. Starting 12/1/23.
(347) 621-7206 View (347) 621-7206
Dr. Danov Neuropsychologist P.C.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11209
Trust highly experienced and patient neuropsychologist to diagnose Autism, memory loss, Attention Deficit, Asperger, dyslexia, ADHD, reading math problems, post brain injury cognitive impairment. Neuropsychological testing provides an objective assessment of learning, cognitive and emotional problems, required documentation for Disability Claim, IEP, private school placement for Learning Disability, test accommodations for SAT. Effective treatment recommendations to help you recover and improve Attention, Memory, Auditory - Visual Processing, Focus, Reading Comprehension, Organization via Cognitive Training with Neurofeedback, Fast ForWord, Metronome. Dr.Danov also provides IME, Expert Witness Evaluation, record review, court testimony, BOE Hearing testimony. OFFICES in SI, QUEENS, NY, BROOKLYN
Trust highly experienced and patient neuropsychologist to diagnose Autism, memory loss, Attention Deficit, Asperger, dyslexia, ADHD, reading math problems, post brain injury cognitive impairment. Neuropsychological testing provides an objective assessment of learning, cognitive and emotional problems, required documentation for Disability Claim, IEP, private school placement for Learning Disability, test accommodations for SAT. Effective treatment recommendations to help you recover and improve Attention, Memory, Auditory - Visual Processing, Focus, Reading Comprehension, Organization via Cognitive Training with Neurofeedback, Fast ForWord, Metronome. Dr.Danov also provides IME, Expert Witness Evaluation, record review, court testimony, BOE Hearing testimony. OFFICES in SI, QUEENS, NY, BROOKLYN
(718) 667-5530 View (718) 667-5530
Photo of Heather Kramer, Counselor in Brooklyn, NY
Heather Kramer
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11204  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I place myself in my clients situations. I utilize my energy to fully understand my clients and their challenges that they have/need to address. My depth of understanding, guides my ability to assist my clients to comprehend how to achieve the goals they have set for themselves.
As a therapist, I place myself in my clients situations. I utilize my energy to fully understand my clients and their challenges that they have/need to address. My depth of understanding, guides my ability to assist my clients to comprehend how to achieve the goals they have set for themselves.
(718) 866-4677 View (718) 866-4677
Photo of Liz Silverman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Liz Silverman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11215
I work with young adults and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, issues related to drugs or alcohol, and those recovering and healing from trauma. I have supported individuals in exploring their gender and sexuality and embrace non-binary, trans, and queer identities. I also specialize in perinatal, postpartum, and parental mental health. Many of my clients are mental health care providers themselves, who need clinical supervision or emotional support. My approach supports exploration of both the roots of emotions, behaviors, and patterns, while also talking about the here and now.
I work with young adults and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, issues related to drugs or alcohol, and those recovering and healing from trauma. I have supported individuals in exploring their gender and sexuality and embrace non-binary, trans, and queer identities. I also specialize in perinatal, postpartum, and parental mental health. Many of my clients are mental health care providers themselves, who need clinical supervision or emotional support. My approach supports exploration of both the roots of emotions, behaviors, and patterns, while also talking about the here and now.
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Photo of Yolla Garraud, Counselor in Brooklyn, NY
Yolla Garraud
Counselor, MA, LMHC, Lic
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11212
A need to further understand human being and to obtain further guidance to effectively navigate a world with such disparity in immoral consciousness of human beings that holds selfishness and lack of compassion. Well my embodiment of the collective religions, to have had insight or somehow this journey was written in my genetic make up or possibly the time was ripe for me to be guided towards my spiritual awareness.
A need to further understand human being and to obtain further guidance to effectively navigate a world with such disparity in immoral consciousness of human beings that holds selfishness and lack of compassion. Well my embodiment of the collective religions, to have had insight or somehow this journey was written in my genetic make up or possibly the time was ripe for me to be guided towards my spiritual awareness.
(718) 509-9816 View (718) 509-9816
Photo of Cassie Enea, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Cassie Enea
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11208  (Online Only)
I believe every person has the power to create positive change. I am dedicated to helping individuals overcome and resolve their problems by learning healthy coping skills, increasing self-esteem, and developing a healthy outlook! After attaining my Masters degree in social work at Stony Brook University, I have found fulfillment in assisting others in recognizing and fostering their own strengths, and improving their quality of life.
I believe every person has the power to create positive change. I am dedicated to helping individuals overcome and resolve their problems by learning healthy coping skills, increasing self-esteem, and developing a healthy outlook! After attaining my Masters degree in social work at Stony Brook University, I have found fulfillment in assisting others in recognizing and fostering their own strengths, and improving their quality of life.
(347) 673-0750 View (347) 673-0750
Bipolar Disorder Therapists

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.