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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Meagan Miraldi, Counselor in Oyster Bay, NY
Meagan Miraldi
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westbury, NY 11590
I am a firm believer that everyone can benefit from therapy. My primary goal is to make each of my client’s therapeutic experiences as comfortable and safe as possible. I have worked with clients of all ages, including children, adolescents, young adults, adults, and seniors. Using a client-centered approach, I work with my clients to develop positive coping skills in order to tackle life’s stressors. I have experience working with clients with a variety of diagnoses, including but not limited to substance use disorders, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders.
I am a firm believer that everyone can benefit from therapy. My primary goal is to make each of my client’s therapeutic experiences as comfortable and safe as possible. I have worked with clients of all ages, including children, adolescents, young adults, adults, and seniors. Using a client-centered approach, I work with my clients to develop positive coping skills in order to tackle life’s stressors. I have experience working with clients with a variety of diagnoses, including but not limited to substance use disorders, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders.
(516) 280-7285 View (516) 280-7285
Photo of Eshika S Kalam, Counselor in Oyster Bay, NY
Eshika S Kalam
Counselor, LMHC, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Manhasset, NY 11030  (Online Only)
Everyone deserves to live a fulfilled life consisting of freedom, happiness, inner piece and growth. As a psychotherapist, I work collaboratively with my clients to achieve these goals in order for them to live a happier life. My goal is to instill hope in my clients and guide them towards self-acceptance. My work with clients involves building the therapeutic relationship through empathy, unconditional positive regards, mindfulness and creativity. By providing clients with safe and non-judgmental environment we work towards exploring and resolving personal conflicts to help the client achieve growth and live a meaningful life.
Everyone deserves to live a fulfilled life consisting of freedom, happiness, inner piece and growth. As a psychotherapist, I work collaboratively with my clients to achieve these goals in order for them to live a happier life. My goal is to instill hope in my clients and guide them towards self-acceptance. My work with clients involves building the therapeutic relationship through empathy, unconditional positive regards, mindfulness and creativity. By providing clients with safe and non-judgmental environment we work towards exploring and resolving personal conflicts to help the client achieve growth and live a meaningful life.
(917) 933-0584 View (917) 933-0584
Photo of First Step Directory, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oyster Bay, NY
First Step Directory
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Hicksville, NY 11801
Deirdre built First Step Therapy & Wellness Group from the ground up and has been hands on every step of the way. Her work ethic is indisputable and she is completely invested in creating a cohesive work environment adhering to values such as mutual respect and equality. She believes healthy doses of restraint combined with self discipline are key components to her success both personally and professionally. Deirdre is highly regarded by her peers and is a long-standing staple within the community where she is committed to creating a safe secure environment for her clients and colleagues. Ms. Holland currently maintains an established private practice
Deirdre built First Step Therapy & Wellness Group from the ground up and has been hands on every step of the way. Her work ethic is indisputable and she is completely invested in creating a cohesive work environment adhering to values such as mutual respect and equality. She believes healthy doses of restraint combined with self discipline are key components to her success both personally and professionally. Deirdre is highly regarded by her peers and is a long-standing staple within the community where she is committed to creating a safe secure environment for her clients and colleagues. Ms. Holland currently maintains an established private practice
(516) 324-3167 View (516) 324-3167
Photo of Comprehensive Counseling LCSW, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oyster Bay, NY
Comprehensive Counseling LCSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Roslyn, NY 11576
About Comprehensive Counseling LCSWs: Whether you're struggling with a particular issue or just can't shake the feeling that there should be more to life, we can help by providing you with the insight and tools you need to move beyond current obstacles. Comprehensive Counseling LCSWs is an affiliate company of LearnWell. We are a community based mental health practice where a diverse group of New York State licensed mental health professionals draw from a variety of therapeutic techniques to assist clients in achieving their treatment goals. Accessibility, service and professionalism are the key elements of our success.
About Comprehensive Counseling LCSWs: Whether you're struggling with a particular issue or just can't shake the feeling that there should be more to life, we can help by providing you with the insight and tools you need to move beyond current obstacles. Comprehensive Counseling LCSWs is an affiliate company of LearnWell. We are a community based mental health practice where a diverse group of New York State licensed mental health professionals draw from a variety of therapeutic techniques to assist clients in achieving their treatment goals. Accessibility, service and professionalism are the key elements of our success.
(516) 279-2801 View (516) 279-2801
Photo of Rafia Hamid, Psychologist in Oyster Bay, NY
Rafia Hamid
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Jericho, NY 11753
As a licensed psychologist, I provide a genuine and warm environment that allows you to explore your problems, find solutions, and develop insight. My goal is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. Building trust and a non-judgmental approach are key aspects of therapeutic work; I provide a confidential and safe space where you can learn to effectively deal with anxiety, depression, and self-limiting beliefs, allowing you to achieve a more fulfilling life.
As a licensed psychologist, I provide a genuine and warm environment that allows you to explore your problems, find solutions, and develop insight. My goal is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. Building trust and a non-judgmental approach are key aspects of therapeutic work; I provide a confidential and safe space where you can learn to effectively deal with anxiety, depression, and self-limiting beliefs, allowing you to achieve a more fulfilling life.
(516) 447-3814 View (516) 447-3814
Photo of Saadia Safian, Counselor in Oyster Bay, NY
Saadia Safian
Counselor, LMHC, CRC, CCATP, C-DBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hicksville, NY 11801
I am a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC) as well as a Certified Dialectical Behavior therapist (C-DBT). My aim is to provide a friendly, respectful & non-judgmental environment in which clients can safely explore any issue(s) that might bring them to therapy/counseling. I've acquired practical experience throughout the Public, Private & Voluntary sectors of the Mental Health Service, working with people of all different ages, ethnic & cultural backgrounds; I have had many years of experience in helping clients, who feel that they are on the point of no return.
I am a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC) as well as a Certified Dialectical Behavior therapist (C-DBT). My aim is to provide a friendly, respectful & non-judgmental environment in which clients can safely explore any issue(s) that might bring them to therapy/counseling. I've acquired practical experience throughout the Public, Private & Voluntary sectors of the Mental Health Service, working with people of all different ages, ethnic & cultural backgrounds; I have had many years of experience in helping clients, who feel that they are on the point of no return.
(631) 996-0525 View (631) 996-0525
Photo of Simran K. Lamba, Counselor in Oyster Bay, NY
Simran K. Lamba
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Huntington, NY 11743
Are you struggling with the painful remnants of a recent break up, seeking to put an end to unhealthy relationship patterns and/or facing difficult childhood experiences holding you back from moving forward? Perhaps you're worried about seeking therapy due to cultural stigma or finding yourself at odds with cultural expectations placed on you by society? Born in India, raised in New York, I recognize the unique pressures and conflicts faced by individuals caught between two seemingly opposing cultural identities. I utilize a multicultural lens that provides a safe space to explore these internal and external sources of tension.
Are you struggling with the painful remnants of a recent break up, seeking to put an end to unhealthy relationship patterns and/or facing difficult childhood experiences holding you back from moving forward? Perhaps you're worried about seeking therapy due to cultural stigma or finding yourself at odds with cultural expectations placed on you by society? Born in India, raised in New York, I recognize the unique pressures and conflicts faced by individuals caught between two seemingly opposing cultural identities. I utilize a multicultural lens that provides a safe space to explore these internal and external sources of tension.
(516) 447-2067 View (516) 447-2067
Photo of Tri State Counseling and MediatIon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oyster Bay, NY
Tri State Counseling and MediatIon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWR, LCSW
Verified Verified
Melville, NY 11747
Trained in CBT, prefer to use a rational living approach with behavior modification and assist the client. Use DBT, CBT, Behavioral approach in Psychotherapy to achieve practical results, measurable and beneficial to the client. Short term treatment focus on result oriented approach with focus on cognitive or insight or behavioral modification is my style. Specialist in children, work with families and a fair mix of all age groups. I accept major health insurances & accept private pay. ANGER MANAGEMENT, AUTISM, ADHD, MOOD DISORDERS, ANXIETY SUBSTANCE ABUSE, ALCOHOL DOMESTIC RELATIONS/VIOLENCE ISSUES AND FORENSIC EVALUATIONS HANDLED AS WELL.
Trained in CBT, prefer to use a rational living approach with behavior modification and assist the client. Use DBT, CBT, Behavioral approach in Psychotherapy to achieve practical results, measurable and beneficial to the client. Short term treatment focus on result oriented approach with focus on cognitive or insight or behavioral modification is my style. Specialist in children, work with families and a fair mix of all age groups. I accept major health insurances & accept private pay. ANGER MANAGEMENT, AUTISM, ADHD, MOOD DISORDERS, ANXIETY SUBSTANCE ABUSE, ALCOHOL DOMESTIC RELATIONS/VIOLENCE ISSUES AND FORENSIC EVALUATIONS HANDLED AS WELL.
(718) 415-6266 View (718) 415-6266

Online Therapists

Photo of Footprints to Feel Better, Pre-Licensed Professional in Oyster Bay, NY
Footprints to Feel Better
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bronx, NY 10459
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 Priya Doshi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oyster Bay, NY
Priya Doshi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Queens Village, NY 11427  (Online Only)
I provide care coordination and resources to my clients along with supportive psychotherapy, PTSD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Family Conflict, Grief, LGBTQ, CBT.
I believe my 10 years of experience has given me the strength and compassion to work with adults and elderly people. I have worked with clients with chronic medical diagnosis including adults discharged from nursing homes into the community. My clients were provided with emotional support and resources to readjust in the home and community.
I provide care coordination and resources to my clients along with supportive psychotherapy, PTSD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Family Conflict, Grief, LGBTQ, CBT.
I believe my 10 years of experience has given me the strength and compassion to work with adults and elderly people. I have worked with clients with chronic medical diagnosis including adults discharged from nursing homes into the community. My clients were provided with emotional support and resources to readjust in the home and community.
(516) 774-1320 View (516) 774-1320
Photo of Comprehensive Consultation Psychological Services, Psychologist in Oyster Bay, 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 Komal Choksi, Psychologist in Oyster Bay, NY
Komal Choksi
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10010
I have also undergone advanced training in psychoanalysis and in the treatment of eating disorders, personality disorders, bipolar disorder, and psychosis.
Psychotherapy provides a unique space through which a new relationship with oneself and others can be forged. Change in patterns of feeling and relating can be achieved through a process of exploration of and reflection on one's deeply held beliefs, convictions, and values, and past and present experiences. My approach is collaborative and informed by psychodynamic perspectives. I strive to facilitate meaning, understanding, and empowerment through close attention to the details of one's internal life and external context. Many of the individuals I work with enter psychotherapy to work through depression and anxiety related to struggles with identity, relationships, loss, trauma, and migration.
I have also undergone advanced training in psychoanalysis and in the treatment of eating disorders, personality disorders, bipolar disorder, and psychosis.
Psychotherapy provides a unique space through which a new relationship with oneself and others can be forged. Change in patterns of feeling and relating can be achieved through a process of exploration of and reflection on one's deeply held beliefs, convictions, and values, and past and present experiences. My approach is collaborative and informed by psychodynamic perspectives. I strive to facilitate meaning, understanding, and empowerment through close attention to the details of one's internal life and external context. Many of the individuals I work with enter psychotherapy to work through depression and anxiety related to struggles with identity, relationships, loss, trauma, and migration.
(646) 679-5819 View (646) 679-5819
Photo of Danielle Matias, Counselor in Oyster Bay, NY
Danielle Matias
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
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.
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, borderline, 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 Sanam Hafeez, Psychologist in Oyster Bay, NY
Sanam Hafeez
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Forest Hills, NY 11375
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.
(718) 441-0166 View (718) 441-0166
Tallat Shahzadi
Counselor, LMHC, CASAC-M, NCC
Verified Verified
South Ozone Park, NY 11420
Hi, My name is Tallat Shahzadi. I am a Licensed Mental Health and Certified Alcohol & Substance Abuse Counselor. I work with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, anger management, ADHD/ADD, bipolar disorder, trauma, addiction, and codependency issues.
Hi, My name is Tallat Shahzadi. I am a Licensed Mental Health and Certified Alcohol & Substance Abuse Counselor. I work with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, anger management, ADHD/ADD, bipolar disorder, trauma, addiction, and codependency issues.
(718) 568-7141 View (718) 568-7141
Photo of Aneela Ali, Psychologist in Oyster Bay, NY
Aneela Ali
Psychologist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001
She treats various mental health conditions including depression, anxiety disorders, Bipolar disorder, PTSD and OCD.
Dr. Aneela Ali is a Board-certified Adult Psychiatrist. She completed medical school at Jinnah Sindh Medical University Karachi and her Psychiatry Residency training at Metropolitan Hospital Center New York. After her residency, she pursued some additional training in consult liaison psychiatry, further developing her expertise in caring for patients with complex medical and psychiatric comorbidities. She was part of the esteemed faculty at Stony Brook University as an Assistant clinical Professor and staff Psychiatrist.
She treats various mental health conditions including depression, anxiety disorders, Bipolar disorder, PTSD and OCD.
Dr. Aneela Ali is a Board-certified Adult Psychiatrist. She completed medical school at Jinnah Sindh Medical University Karachi and her Psychiatry Residency training at Metropolitan Hospital Center New York. After her residency, she pursued some additional training in consult liaison psychiatry, further developing her expertise in caring for patients with complex medical and psychiatric comorbidities. She was part of the esteemed faculty at Stony Brook University as an Assistant clinical Professor and staff Psychiatrist.
(646) 759-2748 View (646) 759-2748
Photo of Footprints to Feel Better, Pre-Licensed Professional in Oyster Bay, 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
Zunaira Mian
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CASAC-M, LPC
Verified Verified
New Hyde Park, NY 11040
Whether you are feeling uncertain how to move forward in life, or struggling with addiction, anger management, depression, anxiety, or relationship issues. I will collaborate with you in a safe and judgment-free space. Through our work together, I can assist you in building coping strategies, gaining insight, and building confidence through a strength prospective lens. Uncertain about therapy….that’s okay. Entering therapy can feel overwhelming, but I am here to help walk you through the process at whatever pace seems best for your personal growth.
Whether you are feeling uncertain how to move forward in life, or struggling with addiction, anger management, depression, anxiety, or relationship issues. I will collaborate with you in a safe and judgment-free space. Through our work together, I can assist you in building coping strategies, gaining insight, and building confidence through a strength prospective lens. Uncertain about therapy….that’s okay. Entering therapy can feel overwhelming, but I am here to help walk you through the process at whatever pace seems best for your personal growth.
(516) 368-9138 View (516) 368-9138
Photo of Sanchana Krishnan, Mental Health Counselor in Oyster Bay, NY
Sanchana Krishnan
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016
I'm a therapist because I love working with people and embrace humanity in all its glorious, messy, wondrous complexity. I'm here to work with your needs as a client, to help you understand yourself better and to empower you on your journey of growth and healing. I practice using an integrative approach, which means: I see you as a person shaped by your past, present and thoughts about the future; by your innate personality, environment and upbringing; by your social relationships, likes, dislikes and relationship with yourself.
I'm a therapist because I love working with people and embrace humanity in all its glorious, messy, wondrous complexity. I'm here to work with your needs as a client, to help you understand yourself better and to empower you on your journey of growth and healing. I practice using an integrative approach, which means: I see you as a person shaped by your past, present and thoughts about the future; by your innate personality, environment and upbringing; by your social relationships, likes, dislikes and relationship with yourself.
(646) 692-0777 x1 View (646) 692-0777 x1
Photo of Comprehensive Counseling LCSW, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oyster Bay, NY
Comprehensive Counseling LCSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Yonkers, NY 10710
About Comprehensive Counseling LCSWs: Whether you're struggling with a particular issue or just can't shake the feeling that there should be more to life, we can help by providing you with the insight and tools you need to move beyond current obstacles. Comprehensive Counseling LCSWs is an affiliate company of LearnWell. We are a community based mental health practice where a diverse group of New York State licensed mental health professionals draw from a variety of therapeutic techniques to assist clients in achieving their treatment goals. Accessibility, service and professionalism are the key elements of our success.
About Comprehensive Counseling LCSWs: Whether you're struggling with a particular issue or just can't shake the feeling that there should be more to life, we can help by providing you with the insight and tools you need to move beyond current obstacles. Comprehensive Counseling LCSWs is an affiliate company of LearnWell. We are a community based mental health practice where a diverse group of New York State licensed mental health professionals draw from a variety of therapeutic techniques to assist clients in achieving their treatment goals. Accessibility, service and professionalism are the key elements of our success.
(914) 758-1954 View (914) 758-1954
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.