Photo of Karen Landmann, LCSW, PC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Karen Landmann, LCSW, PC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BA, MPhil, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10025  (Online Only)
I am an extensively published, world-travelled expert on trauma and chronic illness. I conduct therapy in English, Spanish, French, Russian, Portuguese, German, and Dutch. For the past 25 years, I have been assisting individuals with ADHD/behavioral challenges, trauma, PTSD, dissociation, depression, bipolar disorder, and physical illness. My clients range in age from 3 to 103. Early in my career, I developed a support group curriculum for AIDS orphans now available in 35 countries. Review of my work as a therapist are available online. Kindly employ email to contact me initially if possible. Thank you.
I am an extensively published, world-travelled expert on trauma and chronic illness. I conduct therapy in English, Spanish, French, Russian, Portuguese, German, and Dutch. For the past 25 years, I have been assisting individuals with ADHD/behavioral challenges, trauma, PTSD, dissociation, depression, bipolar disorder, and physical illness. My clients range in age from 3 to 103. Early in my career, I developed a support group curriculum for AIDS orphans now available in 35 countries. Review of my work as a therapist are available online. Kindly employ email to contact me initially if possible. Thank you.
(646) 846-2620 View (646) 846-2620
Photo of Barbara Couvadelli, Psychologist in New York, NY
Barbara Couvadelli
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10128
Couvadelli has expertise in treating mood disorders (anxiety, depression, bipolar), insomnia, social and behavioral issues.
Dr. Couvadelli is an adult and pediatric Neuropsychologist/Psychologist with areas of expertise in clinical neuropsychology, cognitive rehabilitation and health psychology. Dr. Couvadelli obtained her PhD in Behavioral Medicine with a focus on Cognitive Neuroscience. She completed an internship in clinical psychology/neuropsychology, a fellowship in cognitive rehabilitation, and a three-year postdoctoral fellowship in neuropsychology. Dr. Couvadelli has served as the head of Pediatric Neuropsychology at JFK Medical Center, NJ and she holds the appointment of Assistant Professor of Neuroscience at Seton Hall University School of Health/Medical Sciences.
Couvadelli has expertise in treating mood disorders (anxiety, depression, bipolar), insomnia, social and behavioral issues.
Dr. Couvadelli is an adult and pediatric Neuropsychologist/Psychologist with areas of expertise in clinical neuropsychology, cognitive rehabilitation and health psychology. Dr. Couvadelli obtained her PhD in Behavioral Medicine with a focus on Cognitive Neuroscience. She completed an internship in clinical psychology/neuropsychology, a fellowship in cognitive rehabilitation, and a three-year postdoctoral fellowship in neuropsychology. Dr. Couvadelli has served as the head of Pediatric Neuropsychology at JFK Medical Center, NJ and she holds the appointment of Assistant Professor of Neuroscience at Seton Hall University School of Health/Medical Sciences.
(855) 847-7806 View (855) 847-7806
Photo of Verda Tuzer, Licensed Psychoanalyst in New York, NY
Verda Tuzer
Licensed Psychoanalyst, LP, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10024
I welcome individuals and couples seeking assistance for anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, obstacles to professional development, loss, grief, trauma, obsessive-compulsive disorder, bipolar spectrum, and coping with chronic illnesses.
Psychoanalysis has been a lifetime passion and dedication in my understanding of our journey in our lives. I believe psychoanalysis gives us space to think, understand, and be able to tolerate what seems to be unbearable, frustrating, and hopeless as well as relief from interpersonal difficulties or obstacles to achieving professional and personal goals. Creating a safe, trusted, and nonjudgmental atmosphere helps talk freely about thoughts, feelings, memories, hopes, and wishes. Gradually one acquires a deeper awareness and understanding of repeating patterns and develops new ways of thinking.
I welcome individuals and couples seeking assistance for anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, obstacles to professional development, loss, grief, trauma, obsessive-compulsive disorder, bipolar spectrum, and coping with chronic illnesses.
Psychoanalysis has been a lifetime passion and dedication in my understanding of our journey in our lives. I believe psychoanalysis gives us space to think, understand, and be able to tolerate what seems to be unbearable, frustrating, and hopeless as well as relief from interpersonal difficulties or obstacles to achieving professional and personal goals. Creating a safe, trusted, and nonjudgmental atmosphere helps talk freely about thoughts, feelings, memories, hopes, and wishes. Gradually one acquires a deeper awareness and understanding of repeating patterns and develops new ways of thinking.
(646) 883-8864 View (646) 883-8864
Photo of Elaine Yudkovitz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Elaine Yudkovitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011
Someday I'd like to write about "Living Fully and Meaningfully When Times Are Hard". Meanwhile, I am committed to providing a therapeutic relationship that helps people find resilience in themselves to do that. Times are hard for many reasons: relational, financial, vocational, or physiology that stops us: anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder or ADD. I treat adults, couples, adolescents, and children with a soft spot in my heart, and clinical expertise, for young children and parents with attachment, relational, communication, regulatory, separation and self esteem issues. Things can change. Through work that uses relational talk therapy, mindfulness, problem solving and trauma based strategies.
Someday I'd like to write about "Living Fully and Meaningfully When Times Are Hard". Meanwhile, I am committed to providing a therapeutic relationship that helps people find resilience in themselves to do that. Times are hard for many reasons: relational, financial, vocational, or physiology that stops us: anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder or ADD. I treat adults, couples, adolescents, and children with a soft spot in my heart, and clinical expertise, for young children and parents with attachment, relational, communication, regulatory, separation and self esteem issues. Things can change. Through work that uses relational talk therapy, mindfulness, problem solving and trauma based strategies.
(646) 798-5490 View (646) 798-5490
Photo of Footprints to Feel Better, Pre-Licensed Professional in New York, NY
Footprints to Feel Better
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10027
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.
(646) 204-2295 View (646) 204-2295
Photo of SMPsychotherapy & Counseling Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
SMPsychotherapy & Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10165
We work with patients with PTSD, anxiety, depression, bipolar, insomnia, and ADHD.
Is anxiety or depression impacting or derailing your life? Do you have goals you want to accomplish but struggle to get out of bed or stay focused? Mental health issues can keep you from living the life you want or feeling that sense of calmness and serenity you prefer. You want to stop letting mental illness control your life, but you aren’t sure where to start. Many people struggle with mental illness - don’t let it hold you back any longer. Finding the right mental healthcare professional is critical. The right help is available; we can get through this together.
We work with patients with PTSD, anxiety, depression, bipolar, insomnia, and ADHD.
Is anxiety or depression impacting or derailing your life? Do you have goals you want to accomplish but struggle to get out of bed or stay focused? Mental health issues can keep you from living the life you want or feeling that sense of calmness and serenity you prefer. You want to stop letting mental illness control your life, but you aren’t sure where to start. Many people struggle with mental illness - don’t let it hold you back any longer. Finding the right mental healthcare professional is critical. The right help is available; we can get through this together.
(860) 846-4936 View (860) 846-4936
Photo of Tracy E Hill PhD & Associates LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in New York, NY
Tracy E Hill PhD & Associates LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PMHNP, LPC, PhD, LCSW, LSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10014
We can help you with life's struggles, anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, psychological assessments, custody evaluations and so much more!.
Tracy E. Hill PhD & Associates LLC has a variety of clinicians to choose from. Whether you want virtual (NY residents) or in person; we have clinicians who are licensed in Connecticut, Colorado, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. We offer both virtual and in person sessions. We have a licensed psychiatric nurse practitioner, licensed social workers and licensed professional counselors along with Ph.D.s. Our team of dedicated professional clinicians can help you figure life out when life becomes complicated.
We can help you with life's struggles, anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, psychological assessments, custody evaluations and so much more!.
Tracy E. Hill PhD & Associates LLC has a variety of clinicians to choose from. Whether you want virtual (NY residents) or in person; we have clinicians who are licensed in Connecticut, Colorado, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. We offer both virtual and in person sessions. We have a licensed psychiatric nurse practitioner, licensed social workers and licensed professional counselors along with Ph.D.s. Our team of dedicated professional clinicians can help you figure life out when life becomes complicated.
(484) 873-4187 View (484) 873-4187
Photo of Sanam Hafeez, Psychologist in New York, NY
Sanam Hafeez
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10021
My area of expertise is assessment, without which a diagnosis and treatment planning cannot be determined. Often, therapy or medication falls short because of poor or unclear diagnosis. I use my years of clinical and academic experience as well as a tailored, objective assessment to address: Autism Spectrum Disorders, ADHD, Learning Disabilities, Depression, Anxiety and Bipolar Disorder. I perform Fitness of Duty evaluations for employment clearances such as NYPD, FDNY, and bariatric surgery. I also help families and the court system with forensic, child custody and special education litigation as an expert witness.
My area of expertise is assessment, without which a diagnosis and treatment planning cannot be determined. Often, therapy or medication falls short because of poor or unclear diagnosis. I use my years of clinical and academic experience as well as a tailored, objective assessment to address: Autism Spectrum Disorders, ADHD, Learning Disabilities, Depression, Anxiety and Bipolar Disorder. I perform Fitness of Duty evaluations for employment clearances such as NYPD, FDNY, and bariatric surgery. I also help families and the court system with forensic, child custody and special education litigation as an expert witness.
(888) 441-0015 View (888) 441-0015
Photo of Comprehensive Consultation Psychological Services, Psychologist in New York, NY
Comprehensive Consultation Psychological Services
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD, MD, SLP, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10021
Comprehensive Consultation Psychological Services, P.C. is an leading expert in Learning Disabilities such as Dyslexia and Math Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD/ADD), Autism, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, Memory and processing problems, speech, language and other developmental delays. We provide neuropsychological, psychiatric and educational evaluations for children and adults, to not only diagnose but outline a treatment plan, specific to their needs.
Comprehensive Consultation Psychological Services, P.C. is an leading expert in Learning Disabilities such as Dyslexia and Math Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD/ADD), Autism, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, Memory and processing problems, speech, language and other developmental delays. We provide neuropsychological, psychiatric and educational evaluations for children and adults, to not only diagnose but outline a treatment plan, specific to their needs.
(888) 441-0115 View (888) 441-0115
Photo of Infinity Mental Health Counseling, Counselor in New York, NY
Infinity Mental Health Counseling
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10023
Our clinicians work with a wide range of mental health issues including but not limited to: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, low-self esteem, phobias, relationship problems, difficulties with life transitions, deeper self-exploration and assistance with maturation and issues related to gender identity/sexual orientation.
We are now accepting new clients! Whatever your struggle may be at this time, you do not need to face it alone. Often times we can become overwhelmed with our circumstances, we can feel down about who we are, or we allow fear to block us from reaching our full potential. If you want more for yourself, then join us on a path of gradually creating a new way of being in the world. Infinity Mental Health Counseling is a group practice in New Paltz with professional, qualified and compassionate mental health counselors ready to help!
Our clinicians work with a wide range of mental health issues including but not limited to: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, low-self esteem, phobias, relationship problems, difficulties with life transitions, deeper self-exploration and assistance with maturation and issues related to gender identity/sexual orientation.
We are now accepting new clients! Whatever your struggle may be at this time, you do not need to face it alone. Often times we can become overwhelmed with our circumstances, we can feel down about who we are, or we allow fear to block us from reaching our full potential. If you want more for yourself, then join us on a path of gradually creating a new way of being in the world. Infinity Mental Health Counseling is a group practice in New Paltz with professional, qualified and compassionate mental health counselors ready to help!
(845) 367-4954 View (845) 367-4954
Photo of Sarah Bench, Psychologist in New York, NY
Sarah Bench
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10022
I am a clinical psychologist specializing in the treatment of children, adolescents, young adults, and their parents, with an expertise in interpersonal, psychodynamic psychotherapy. I worked as a school psychologist in independent schools for over 10 years, supporting students with both social and academic challenges. The students I work with typically struggle with anxiety and depression, learning and attention difficulties, and relationships. When working with young adults, I see people who, perhaps like you, feel stuck as they try to carve out a career path, and seek out and maintain intimate relationships.
I am a clinical psychologist specializing in the treatment of children, adolescents, young adults, and their parents, with an expertise in interpersonal, psychodynamic psychotherapy. I worked as a school psychologist in independent schools for over 10 years, supporting students with both social and academic challenges. The students I work with typically struggle with anxiety and depression, learning and attention difficulties, and relationships. When working with young adults, I see people who, perhaps like you, feel stuck as they try to carve out a career path, and seek out and maintain intimate relationships.
(917) 809-7928 View (917) 809-7928
Photo of Zeynep Catay Caliskan, Psychologist in New York, NY
Zeynep Catay Caliskan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 18 years of experience working with adults, adolescents and children. In psychotherapy, I believe in creating a safe and collaborative environment that can serve as a catalyst for self-understanding and change. Through open self-expression and close listening, I seek to shed light on the multilayered nature of problems and clarify various relational, emotional and thought processes that are involved. Depending on your individual needs the work of psychotherapy may include elements of deepening insight, strengthening coping abilities or implementing life style changes.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 18 years of experience working with adults, adolescents and children. In psychotherapy, I believe in creating a safe and collaborative environment that can serve as a catalyst for self-understanding and change. Through open self-expression and close listening, I seek to shed light on the multilayered nature of problems and clarify various relational, emotional and thought processes that are involved. Depending on your individual needs the work of psychotherapy may include elements of deepening insight, strengthening coping abilities or implementing life style changes.
(929) 552-6786 View (929) 552-6786
Photo of Suzanne L Silver, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Suzanne L Silver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, Healer, Yoga
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10065
Do you sometimes feel like you're able to rationalize things intellectually but still feel emotionally unstable? Do you feel depressed? Anxious? Hopeless? I offer solid practical guidance and dynamic tools to assist you in obtaining your personal goals and happiness. As an Ordained Minister of The School of the Healing Arts, I have an eclectic approach rooted in Psychodynamic, Experiential, Problem Solving and Short Term Models as well as CBT and Object Relations. All this, coupled with optional Hands on Healing approach is a powerful combination enabling me to work with patients on all levels of their being: Mentally, Emotionally, Physically, Spiritually.
Do you sometimes feel like you're able to rationalize things intellectually but still feel emotionally unstable? Do you feel depressed? Anxious? Hopeless? I offer solid practical guidance and dynamic tools to assist you in obtaining your personal goals and happiness. As an Ordained Minister of The School of the Healing Arts, I have an eclectic approach rooted in Psychodynamic, Experiential, Problem Solving and Short Term Models as well as CBT and Object Relations. All this, coupled with optional Hands on Healing approach is a powerful combination enabling me to work with patients on all levels of their being: Mentally, Emotionally, Physically, Spiritually.
(917) 725-2169 View (917) 725-2169
Photo of Humantold, Counselor in New York, NY
Humantold
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016
We are Humantold. We exist to help people find the right clinician, and the right care for their mental health and wellness journey. We are here to provide resources and referrals to help you on your unique journey of personal growth. Every day, we see how human connection and increased self-knowledge can change lives for the better. The clinicians and practices we support are here to help you address whatever you feel is inhibiting you from living life as your fullest self.
We are Humantold. We exist to help people find the right clinician, and the right care for their mental health and wellness journey. We are here to provide resources and referrals to help you on your unique journey of personal growth. Every day, we see how human connection and increased self-knowledge can change lives for the better. The clinicians and practices we support are here to help you address whatever you feel is inhibiting you from living life as your fullest self.
(929) 284-7858 View (929) 284-7858
Photo of Valerie Graf, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Valerie Graf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10017
Valerie Graf, LMSW, has dedicated most of her professional career to supporting individuals and couples across various life stages (ages 5 and up). She specializes in treating Anxiety, Trauma, Relationship Issues, Phobias, Identity Issues, Job Coaching, Autism, ADHD, OCD, LGBTQIA+ Care, and Peak Performance.
Valerie Graf, LMSW, has dedicated most of her professional career to supporting individuals and couples across various life stages (ages 5 and up). She specializes in treating Anxiety, Trauma, Relationship Issues, Phobias, Identity Issues, Job Coaching, Autism, ADHD, OCD, LGBTQIA+ Care, and Peak Performance.
(646) 759-9040 View (646) 759-9040
Photo of Michael S Grove, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Michael S Grove
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, BCD, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10128  (Online Only)
As a parent myself, I know the fears, anguish, and confusion you can have dealing with your child's or adolescent's struggles. If you are in a less than satisfying relationship, I can help you understand and effectively communicate your needs in a way your partner can respond to you. If you have an addictive problem, I can help you motivate yourself to overcome it. I provide a safe, comfortable, nonjudgmental place to heard. We will use intense problem solving methods to get the most rapid relief we can. We focus on your goals, not someone else's.
As a parent myself, I know the fears, anguish, and confusion you can have dealing with your child's or adolescent's struggles. If you are in a less than satisfying relationship, I can help you understand and effectively communicate your needs in a way your partner can respond to you. If you have an addictive problem, I can help you motivate yourself to overcome it. I provide a safe, comfortable, nonjudgmental place to heard. We will use intense problem solving methods to get the most rapid relief we can. We focus on your goals, not someone else's.
(646) 386-2229 View (646) 386-2229
Photo of Noia Efrat, Psychologist in New York, NY
Noia Efrat
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001
As a psychodynamic therapist, I hold that exploring our motivations, inner conflicts and personal histories in a safe context can mobilize greater self-awareness, flexibility, and changes to problematic or painful modes of relating to ourselves and to others. I aim to foster a collaborative and responsive therapeutic environment informed by the specific needs and goals of each of my patients. I take a strengths-based approach and work to scaffold and reinforce the resources that each client brings with them.
As a psychodynamic therapist, I hold that exploring our motivations, inner conflicts and personal histories in a safe context can mobilize greater self-awareness, flexibility, and changes to problematic or painful modes of relating to ourselves and to others. I aim to foster a collaborative and responsive therapeutic environment informed by the specific needs and goals of each of my patients. I take a strengths-based approach and work to scaffold and reinforce the resources that each client brings with them.
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Photo of Jamieson Webster, Psychologist in New York, NY
Jamieson Webster
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10014
Psychoanalytic therapy is often maligned in popular media but it remains for me one of the few treatments that seeks to address the innermost, often hidden, parts of ourselves. Psychological symptoms are not only a source of suffering, they are also a message that speaks to desires, conflicts, and pain, wrought by a personal history that can sometimes only come alive when spoken to a professional listening other. The flip-side of anxiety is always a passionate dream that has not been encountered as such. I see my work as bringing my clients closer to that possibility. The intimacy of speaking and listening is rare and a gift.
Psychoanalytic therapy is often maligned in popular media but it remains for me one of the few treatments that seeks to address the innermost, often hidden, parts of ourselves. Psychological symptoms are not only a source of suffering, they are also a message that speaks to desires, conflicts, and pain, wrought by a personal history that can sometimes only come alive when spoken to a professional listening other. The flip-side of anxiety is always a passionate dream that has not been encountered as such. I see my work as bringing my clients closer to that possibility. The intimacy of speaking and listening is rare and a gift.
(347) 252-6246 View (347) 252-6246
Photo of Courtney Carey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York, NY
Courtney Carey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10022
Have you wondered if your child or adolescent would benefit from therapy? As a senior therapist at Greenwich Psychology Group, I enjoy working with children and adolescents that may be struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavioral or family issues. You can talk to me about anything; nothing will surprise me. I am accessible to parents and easy to talk to. I focus on your child, recognize their strengths, and develop tools to become their own therapist by learning how to deal with challenges. Clients often feel better early on in treatment.
Have you wondered if your child or adolescent would benefit from therapy? As a senior therapist at Greenwich Psychology Group, I enjoy working with children and adolescents that may be struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavioral or family issues. You can talk to me about anything; nothing will surprise me. I am accessible to parents and easy to talk to. I focus on your child, recognize their strengths, and develop tools to become their own therapist by learning how to deal with challenges. Clients often feel better early on in treatment.
(475) 325-2997 View (475) 325-2997
Photo of Pediatric Neuropsychological Svcs / Dr. Barrios, Psychologist in New York, NY
Pediatric Neuropsychological Svcs / Dr. Barrios
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10169
Are you worried that your child has a potential learning disability, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, or Autism Spectrum Disorder? Are you concerned about developmental delays? Does your child needs extra time in order to perform well on standardized tests (i.e. SAT)? Is your child displaying signs of Posttraumatic Stress after a traumatic event? Do they struggle with addictions or other behavioral problems? A comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation will help your child achieve their potential. Following the evaluation, you will receive a report detailing the diagnosis and any further weaknesses that your child may be experiencing. Clear solutions including recommendations for home and school will be provided.
Are you worried that your child has a potential learning disability, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, or Autism Spectrum Disorder? Are you concerned about developmental delays? Does your child needs extra time in order to perform well on standardized tests (i.e. SAT)? Is your child displaying signs of Posttraumatic Stress after a traumatic event? Do they struggle with addictions or other behavioral problems? A comprehensive neuropsychological evaluation will help your child achieve their potential. Following the evaluation, you will receive a report detailing the diagnosis and any further weaknesses that your child may be experiencing. Clear solutions including recommendations for home and school will be provided.
(631) 540-1993 View (631) 540-1993
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.