Photo of Steve R Antoine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Steve R Antoine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11203  (Online Only)
I have been trained in Structural Family Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT for Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder and CBT for Couples).
I hope to contribute compassion to the recovery of people living productive lives but needing assistance managing mental health needs, interacting with others or navigating the behavioral health system. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over ten years of experience and engagement expertise in working collaboratively with diverse populations, families, groups, and individuals.
I have been trained in Structural Family Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT for Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder and CBT for Couples).
I hope to contribute compassion to the recovery of people living productive lives but needing assistance managing mental health needs, interacting with others or navigating the behavioral health system. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over ten years of experience and engagement expertise in working collaboratively with diverse populations, families, groups, and individuals.
(516) 271-3143 View (516) 271-3143
Photo of Linnea Mavrides, Psychologist in Brooklyn, NY
Linnea Mavrides
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11215
I am a clinical psychologist experienced in working with individuals and couples around a variety of emotional and life challenges, including grief and loss, trauma, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, personality disorders, and substance abuse. I specialize in working with women and couples dealing with challenges around pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum depression/anxiety, and adjustment to parenting. I also see mothers and infants together to address issues in attachment and communication. My orientation is primarily psychodynamic and interpersonal, although I am trained in CBT, DBT, and CPT and do integrate these strategies as needed.
I am a clinical psychologist experienced in working with individuals and couples around a variety of emotional and life challenges, including grief and loss, trauma, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, personality disorders, and substance abuse. I specialize in working with women and couples dealing with challenges around pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum depression/anxiety, and adjustment to parenting. I also see mothers and infants together to address issues in attachment and communication. My orientation is primarily psychodynamic and interpersonal, although I am trained in CBT, DBT, and CPT and do integrate these strategies as needed.
(917) 746-1648 View (917) 746-1648
Photo of Natalie Green, Licensed Master Social Worker in Brooklyn, NY
Natalie Green
Licensed Master Social Worker, MSW, LMSW, PhD, Student
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11238  (Online Only)
I have experience with CBT, DBT, and somatic and body-focused practices, and have worked with individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, life transitions, and relationship struggles.
Whether you are new to therapy or returning, finding someone who we feel understands and cares for us is hard. Each person has their own story and all of us have different reasons for seeking out help. I believe therapy is a safe place to share our stories, learn who we are, and develop effective skills to improve our lives. In therapy, I emphasize creating a nonjudgemental, empathetic, welcoming, and safe environment. I believe that patience and trust are essential for healing, and through the therapeutic relationship clients can explore their inner selves.
I have experience with CBT, DBT, and somatic and body-focused practices, and have worked with individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, life transitions, and relationship struggles.
Whether you are new to therapy or returning, finding someone who we feel understands and cares for us is hard. Each person has their own story and all of us have different reasons for seeking out help. I believe therapy is a safe place to share our stories, learn who we are, and develop effective skills to improve our lives. In therapy, I emphasize creating a nonjudgemental, empathetic, welcoming, and safe environment. I believe that patience and trust are essential for healing, and through the therapeutic relationship clients can explore their inner selves.
(719) 966-7730 View (719) 966-7730
Photo of Peter Gregory Tyson Jr, Licensed Master Social Worker in Brooklyn, NY
Peter Gregory Tyson Jr
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11216  (Online Only)
I've treated clients with diagnosis such as PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Depression and borderline personality disorder.
My ideal client is an individual who is highly motivated to explore themselves and the possibility of a brighter future. Through consistent sessions, I'm sure we'll be able to address the needs that have brought you into therapy. I enjoy working with clients who are willing to lean in, especially when instinct may tell us to lean back. I want to join you on your journey towards enlightenment, self improvement and sustained change.
I've treated clients with diagnosis such as PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Depression and borderline personality disorder.
My ideal client is an individual who is highly motivated to explore themselves and the possibility of a brighter future. Through consistent sessions, I'm sure we'll be able to address the needs that have brought you into therapy. I enjoy working with clients who are willing to lean in, especially when instinct may tell us to lean back. I want to join you on your journey towards enlightenment, self improvement and sustained change.
(347) 941-0735 View (347) 941-0735
Photo of Melissa Wergland, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Melissa Wergland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11214  (Online Only)
I have also helped clients with more serious mental illness including Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder to be able to live more satisfying lives.
Are you struggling and feeling alone and misunderstood? Are you suffering from excessive worrying, or feeling like you have lost hope that things can get better? Maybe you feel that you are not the person you once were, and you want so much to get that person back. Sometimes we go through a period in our lives where we just need a little guidance to get back on our feet. You have already courageously taken the first step by seeking help and that takes strength! I am honored to be a part of this very important journey, to be your guide and companion in this healing process.
I have also helped clients with more serious mental illness including Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder to be able to live more satisfying lives.
Are you struggling and feeling alone and misunderstood? Are you suffering from excessive worrying, or feeling like you have lost hope that things can get better? Maybe you feel that you are not the person you once were, and you want so much to get that person back. Sometimes we go through a period in our lives where we just need a little guidance to get back on our feet. You have already courageously taken the first step by seeking help and that takes strength! I am honored to be a part of this very important journey, to be your guide and companion in this healing process.
(718) 550-6651 View (718) 550-6651
Photo of Peter Honchaurk, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Peter Honchaurk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11218
I have served as clinical supervisor to many therapists. I have a superb track record of helping clients - individuals, families and couples - effect remarkable recovery and resume functioning. Areas in which I excel: schizophrenia, depression (incl suicide- and self-harm-prevention), anxiety, bipolar disorder, relationship difficulties, social phobia, OCD, alcoholism (though I'm no substitute for AA), substance abuse, sex addiction, debt & finance stress, grief, workplace stress, assertiveness, and work with teens-at-risk and their families.
I have served as clinical supervisor to many therapists. I have a superb track record of helping clients - individuals, families and couples - effect remarkable recovery and resume functioning. Areas in which I excel: schizophrenia, depression (incl suicide- and self-harm-prevention), anxiety, bipolar disorder, relationship difficulties, social phobia, OCD, alcoholism (though I'm no substitute for AA), substance abuse, sex addiction, debt & finance stress, grief, workplace stress, assertiveness, and work with teens-at-risk and their families.
(646) 798-2995 View (646) 798-2995
Photo of Jonathan Fell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Jonathan Fell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11229
I specialize in work with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, family conflict and trauma and stress-related disorders.
I am a psychotherapist in private practice who specializes in treatment of individuals, couples and families. Whether your stress is related to work, school, relationships, parenting, or other life transitions, I will work with you to nurture your existing strengths and help you build coping skills that lead to positive life changes.
I specialize in work with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, family conflict and trauma and stress-related disorders.
I am a psychotherapist in private practice who specializes in treatment of individuals, couples and families. Whether your stress is related to work, school, relationships, parenting, or other life transitions, I will work with you to nurture your existing strengths and help you build coping skills that lead to positive life changes.
(929) 395-1437 View (929) 395-1437
Photo of Point Clarity Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Point Clarity Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CFSW, SIFI
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11218
We are a group of Psychotherapists, each one specializing in a different area, to be able to provide expert treatment in specific needed areas. We have specialists trained in modalities such as Forensic, Addictions, Trauma, EMDR, Etc.We provide ongoing assessment, diagnosis, psychotherapy and treatment planning to a socio-culturally diverse adult and adolescent population diagnosed with a full-spectrum of psychiatric disorders including bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, anxiety-related disorders, substance abuse and dependence, PTSD, ADHD, Post-Partum Depression, Trauma related issues, Family and relationship issues etc.
We are a group of Psychotherapists, each one specializing in a different area, to be able to provide expert treatment in specific needed areas. We have specialists trained in modalities such as Forensic, Addictions, Trauma, EMDR, Etc.We provide ongoing assessment, diagnosis, psychotherapy and treatment planning to a socio-culturally diverse adult and adolescent population diagnosed with a full-spectrum of psychiatric disorders including bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, anxiety-related disorders, substance abuse and dependence, PTSD, ADHD, Post-Partum Depression, Trauma related issues, Family and relationship issues etc.
(718) 790-4290 View (718) 790-4290
Photo of Leah Grunwald, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Leah Grunwald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCFP, SIFI, FORENSI
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11218
I have trained and specialize in several modalities such as EMDR, Forensic, DBT, CBT, Family Therapy, Addictions etc. I provide ongoing assessment, diagnosis, psychotherapy and treatment planning to a socio-culturally diverse adult and adolescent population diagnosed with a full-spectrum of psychiatric disorders including bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, anxiety-related disorders, substance abuse and dependence, PTSD, ADHD, Post-Partum Depression, Trauma related issues, Family and relationship issues etc.
I have trained and specialize in several modalities such as EMDR, Forensic, DBT, CBT, Family Therapy, Addictions etc. I provide ongoing assessment, diagnosis, psychotherapy and treatment planning to a socio-culturally diverse adult and adolescent population diagnosed with a full-spectrum of psychiatric disorders including bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, anxiety-related disorders, substance abuse and dependence, PTSD, ADHD, Post-Partum Depression, Trauma related issues, Family and relationship issues etc.
(347) 321-9011 View (347) 321-9011
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 J. ovalles psychotherapist, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
J. ovalles psychotherapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, CASAC-G
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11206  (Online Only)
You are not alone. I'm here to guide you to get solutions to deal with your symptoms of depression, anxiety, attention deficit disorder, post traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, trauma, anger management, suicidal ideation, substance abuse and other symptoms that you might be facing in your life.
You are not alone. I'm here to guide you to get solutions to deal with your symptoms of depression, anxiety, attention deficit disorder, post traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, trauma, anger management, suicidal ideation, substance abuse and other symptoms that you might be facing in your life.
(347) 515-6017 View (347) 515-6017
Photo of Corina K Skentzou, Counselor in Brooklyn, NY
Corina K Skentzou
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11210
I have worked with people suffering from Mood, Bipolar, Anxiety,Trauma, Substance Use Disorders, Personality Disorders, Relationship Problems, Complicated Grief and I can tell that I have witnesses pain.
When do we seek therapy? when we feel overwhelmed, depressed, stressed, anxious, stagnated, confused, challenged, lonely...when we are unhappy. Simple like that. And what are some therapy expectations that we have? To stop feeling overwhelmed, depressed, stressed, anxious, stagnated etc..,to stop being unhappy.  I have good news for you! This is attainable. Yes, you can stop being unhappy. However, do you want to be happy? Silly question I know. But tell me please, after all this negativity that you experience do you have the expectation to be happy?Let me answer, most of the people say “no". 
I have worked with people suffering from Mood, Bipolar, Anxiety,Trauma, Substance Use Disorders, Personality Disorders, Relationship Problems, Complicated Grief and I can tell that I have witnesses pain.
When do we seek therapy? when we feel overwhelmed, depressed, stressed, anxious, stagnated, confused, challenged, lonely...when we are unhappy. Simple like that. And what are some therapy expectations that we have? To stop feeling overwhelmed, depressed, stressed, anxious, stagnated etc..,to stop being unhappy.  I have good news for you! This is attainable. Yes, you can stop being unhappy. However, do you want to be happy? Silly question I know. But tell me please, after all this negativity that you experience do you have the expectation to be happy?Let me answer, most of the people say “no". 
(914) 214-4626 View (914) 214-4626
Photo of Touchstone SVC Private Practitioners Group, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Touchstone SVC Private Practitioners Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MAFP, SIFI
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11219
We are a group of Psychotherapists, each one specializing in a different area, to be able to provide expert treatment in specific needed areas. We have specialists trained in modalities such as Forensic, Addictions, Trauma, EMDR, Etc.We provide ongoing assessment, diagnosis, psychotherapy and treatment planning to a socio-culturally diverse adult and adolescent population diagnosed with a full-spectrum of psychiatric disorders including bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, anxiety-related disorders, substance abuse and dependence, PTSD, ADHD, Post-Partum Depression, Trauma related issues, Family and relationship issues etc.
We are a group of Psychotherapists, each one specializing in a different area, to be able to provide expert treatment in specific needed areas. We have specialists trained in modalities such as Forensic, Addictions, Trauma, EMDR, Etc.We provide ongoing assessment, diagnosis, psychotherapy and treatment planning to a socio-culturally diverse adult and adolescent population diagnosed with a full-spectrum of psychiatric disorders including bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, anxiety-related disorders, substance abuse and dependence, PTSD, ADHD, Post-Partum Depression, Trauma related issues, Family and relationship issues etc.
(929) 552-4542 View (929) 552-4542
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 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 Alexandra K Milak, Pre-Licensed Professional in Brooklyn, NY
Alexandra K Milak
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11226
I am a mental health counselor with a limited permit, working under the supervision of Dr. Sheila Chiffriller, a licensed psychologist. I provide psychotherapy to a diverse population of clients, specializing in survivors of trauma, borderline personality disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety, LGBTQIA+ issues, anger, family issues, couples' issues, bipolar disorder, chronic illness, grief and bereavement. My practice is rooted in principles of affirmation, intersectional justice, harm reduction, and embodiment and holds the position that social oppressions and systemic problems operate as barriers to wellness.
I am a mental health counselor with a limited permit, working under the supervision of Dr. Sheila Chiffriller, a licensed psychologist. I provide psychotherapy to a diverse population of clients, specializing in survivors of trauma, borderline personality disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety, LGBTQIA+ issues, anger, family issues, couples' issues, bipolar disorder, chronic illness, grief and bereavement. My practice is rooted in principles of affirmation, intersectional justice, harm reduction, and embodiment and holds the position that social oppressions and systemic problems operate as barriers to wellness.
(516) 476-9057 View (516) 476-9057
Photo of The New Hope Mental Health Counseling Services, Counselor in Brooklyn, NY
The New Hope Mental Health Counseling Services
Counselor, MSEd, LMHC, CCTS-F, CAMS II
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11205
The New Hope Mental Health Counseling Services is a group practice staffed by a mixed group of licensed clinicians trained to handle every area of life. We work with children who present with aggressive and disruptive behaviors, including ADHD, individuals involved in the criminal justice system, struggling with drug, recovery and family related problems. Our clients receives support for Anger Management, marriage, trauma, and parenting. Our clinicians utilize an eclectic approach to address your needs. We also offer medication therapy for ADHD, bipolar, anxiety and other mood disorders where needed.
The New Hope Mental Health Counseling Services is a group practice staffed by a mixed group of licensed clinicians trained to handle every area of life. We work with children who present with aggressive and disruptive behaviors, including ADHD, individuals involved in the criminal justice system, struggling with drug, recovery and family related problems. Our clients receives support for Anger Management, marriage, trauma, and parenting. Our clinicians utilize an eclectic approach to address your needs. We also offer medication therapy for ADHD, bipolar, anxiety and other mood disorders where needed.
(646) 681-7762 View (646) 681-7762
Photo of Tomasina Beckford, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Tomasina Beckford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11209
Hello, I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 30 years of experience. I work with adults, adolescents, children, families, and couples. I prefer to use an eclectic approach tailored to the unique needs of each client. I have been trained in a variety of modalities, so I can be flexible and use what works best for each individual. I pride myself on providing a warm and compassionate setting where my clients can feel comfortable and welcome. I respect each individual's strengths, beliefs, and support systems, drawing from these to help the client achieve their goals.
Hello, I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 30 years of experience. I work with adults, adolescents, children, families, and couples. I prefer to use an eclectic approach tailored to the unique needs of each client. I have been trained in a variety of modalities, so I can be flexible and use what works best for each individual. I pride myself on providing a warm and compassionate setting where my clients can feel comfortable and welcome. I respect each individual's strengths, beliefs, and support systems, drawing from these to help the client achieve their goals.
(929) 348-2688 View (929) 348-2688
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 Daniel Bernatowicz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Daniel Bernatowicz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11222
Through various experiences working with teens, adults, and seniors I was able to utilize integrative practice methods, including spirituality, CBT, and life experience to best help another individual redevelop his/her idea of life's journey.
Through various experiences working with teens, adults, and seniors I was able to utilize integrative practice methods, including spirituality, CBT, and life experience to best help another individual redevelop his/her idea of life's journey.
(917) 746-7354 x11 View (917) 746-7354 x11
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.