Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Brooklyn, NY

Photo of Alan Vanell, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Alan Vanell
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11201
He is especially passionate about treating ADHD, bipolar disorder, and somatoform disorders, employing a range of interventions to suit the unique needs of his clients.
Alan Vanell is dedicated to supporting individuals in their journey towards mental wellness, offering his expertise in New York to those seeking relief and understanding. At LifeStance Health, Alan utilizes his extensive skills in case management and therapy to help clients navigate complex emotions and life challenges. He is particularly adept at working with individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, and substance abuse, as well as those struggling with trauma, including immigrationrelated issues.
He is especially passionate about treating ADHD, bipolar disorder, and somatoform disorders, employing a range of interventions to suit the unique needs of his clients.
Alan Vanell is dedicated to supporting individuals in their journey towards mental wellness, offering his expertise in New York to those seeking relief and understanding. At LifeStance Health, Alan utilizes his extensive skills in case management and therapy to help clients navigate complex emotions and life challenges. He is particularly adept at working with individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, and substance abuse, as well as those struggling with trauma, including immigrationrelated issues.
(718) 213-4268 View (718) 213-4268
Photo of Hillary Glick, Psychologist, PhD
Hillary Glick
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11233
If you suffer from depression/ bipolar disorder, trauma history, or bad relationships you know how tough emotional pain is.
Trust and a sense of safety are necessary foundations for successful therapy. Yet they don't come automatically. They have to be built and earned over time. I respect the tremendous courage it takes to face up to deeply buried or avoided thoughts and feelings. I work best with people who take their therapy seriously and are curious about finding new ways of thinking about themselves and others in their lives. I use insight oriented therapies as well as mindfulness to help us stay in the moment. My approach is tailored individually to your needs. Recently I added EMDR and some IFS to my work.
If you suffer from depression/ bipolar disorder, trauma history, or bad relationships you know how tough emotional pain is.
Trust and a sense of safety are necessary foundations for successful therapy. Yet they don't come automatically. They have to be built and earned over time. I respect the tremendous courage it takes to face up to deeply buried or avoided thoughts and feelings. I work best with people who take their therapy seriously and are curious about finding new ways of thinking about themselves and others in their lives. I use insight oriented therapies as well as mindfulness to help us stay in the moment. My approach is tailored individually to your needs. Recently I added EMDR and some IFS to my work.
(646) 386-2213 View (646) 386-2213
Photo of Brannan Mary Piper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BS, LCSW
Brannan Mary Piper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Serves Area
My areas of specialization focus on depression, Bipolar, anxiety, self-esteem, and problems originating in childhood.
I work with adults and young adult individuals. Coping with depression or anxiety is painful. Problems rooted in childhood result in low self esteem and can block your ability to move forward. Change comes with challenges that can be difficult to manage alone. Reaching out for help is the solution.
My areas of specialization focus on depression, Bipolar, anxiety, self-esteem, and problems originating in childhood.
I work with adults and young adult individuals. Coping with depression or anxiety is painful. Problems rooted in childhood result in low self esteem and can block your ability to move forward. Change comes with challenges that can be difficult to manage alone. Reaching out for help is the solution.
(646) 681-8736 View (646) 681-8736
Photo of Piyumi Buddhakorala, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Piyumi Buddhakorala
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have over 10 years of experience working with individuals with trauma, substance use, employment concerns, depression, anxiety, psychotic, bipolar and borderline symptoms.
Do you ever ask yourself why you react the way you do to certain situations? Are you feeling overwhelmed with everything that you are feeling? Do you feel like you have tried therapy before and nothing seems to be working? Do you feel hopeless and on the brink of giving up? I would like to tell you that not all hope is lost. If you are looking to find ways to address your concerns, find hope and meaning again, I am here to support you.
I have over 10 years of experience working with individuals with trauma, substance use, employment concerns, depression, anxiety, psychotic, bipolar and borderline symptoms.
Do you ever ask yourself why you react the way you do to certain situations? Are you feeling overwhelmed with everything that you are feeling? Do you feel like you have tried therapy before and nothing seems to be working? Do you feel hopeless and on the brink of giving up? I would like to tell you that not all hope is lost. If you are looking to find ways to address your concerns, find hope and meaning again, I am here to support you.
(646) 542-1112 View (646) 542-1112
Photo of Betty L Gannon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Betty L Gannon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with adults 18 and up with a focus on depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, adjustment disorder, and borderline personality disorder.
My approach to therapy is warm, honest, and empowering—blending humor with deep care to create a space where you feel truly seen and supported. I am trained in DBT, solution-focused and strengths-based therapy, and offer a dynamic blend to help you grow .
I work with adults 18 and up with a focus on depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, adjustment disorder, and borderline personality disorder.
My approach to therapy is warm, honest, and empowering—blending humor with deep care to create a space where you feel truly seen and supported. I am trained in DBT, solution-focused and strengths-based therapy, and offer a dynamic blend to help you grow .
(914) 768-1175 View (914) 768-1175
Photo of Rajenie Somra, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Rajenie Somra
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have successfully worked with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, panic disorder, borderline personality disorder, schizoaffective disorder, substance use disorder, life transitions and other issues.
Utilizing a range of therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational interviewing (MI), Relational Therapy, Psychodynamic Theory, Rational Emotive, Behavior Therapy and Mentalization, I will tailor your treatment to meet the specific needs of each client.
I have successfully worked with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, panic disorder, borderline personality disorder, schizoaffective disorder, substance use disorder, life transitions and other issues.
Utilizing a range of therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational interviewing (MI), Relational Therapy, Psychodynamic Theory, Rational Emotive, Behavior Therapy and Mentalization, I will tailor your treatment to meet the specific needs of each client.
(929) 581-7190 View (929) 581-7190
Photo of Stephanie Freitag, Psychologist, PhD
Stephanie Freitag
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11249
I regularly publish on trauma and bipolar disorder, so these are areas of particular speciality.
Hi, I'm Stephanie. I'm a licensed clinical psychologist in NY, NJ, CT, GA, and FL, and an adjunct professor at the Emory School of Medicine. I strive to provide a warm and safe space where patients can feel comfortable sharing without fear of judgment. My goal is to help my patients reflect on their values so that they can work towards what it means to be their "best self." I will always focus on treating the symptoms and not the "disorder," in an effort to tailor my approach to the individual. I am passionate about fighting stigma associated with mental illness and engage in advocacy and research outside of treating patients.
I regularly publish on trauma and bipolar disorder, so these are areas of particular speciality.
Hi, I'm Stephanie. I'm a licensed clinical psychologist in NY, NJ, CT, GA, and FL, and an adjunct professor at the Emory School of Medicine. I strive to provide a warm and safe space where patients can feel comfortable sharing without fear of judgment. My goal is to help my patients reflect on their values so that they can work towards what it means to be their "best self." I will always focus on treating the symptoms and not the "disorder," in an effort to tailor my approach to the individual. I am passionate about fighting stigma associated with mental illness and engage in advocacy and research outside of treating patients.
(646) 461-4212 View (646) 461-4212
Photo of Arthur Kukuyev - New York Psychiatric Services, PC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
New York Psychiatric Services, PC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11235
Hello everyone! Living in New York City may be a challenge, filled with stress. anxiety and depression. With these challenges you need a helping hand to guide you through. I specialize in Mood Disorders, Bipolar disorders, Anxiety, Depression and PTSD.
Hello everyone! Living in New York City may be a challenge, filled with stress. anxiety and depression. With these challenges you need a helping hand to guide you through. I specialize in Mood Disorders, Bipolar disorders, Anxiety, Depression and PTSD.
(347) 851-1972 View (347) 851-1972
Photo of Bianca I. Morisset, Counselor, LMHC
Bianca I. Morisset
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Online Only
She provides individual and group counseling to a range of individuals dealing with but not limited to Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar/Psychotic Disorders, trauma and other behavioral issues.
Bianca Morisset is a board-certified license mental health counselor in the state of New York who holds a dual B.A./M.A. degree in forensic psychology from John Jay college. She has years of clinical experience across a variety of settings such as large nonprofits, outpatient, correctional and private practice working with adults, adolescents and families who suffer from a variety of mental illnesses.Bianca has been a practicing psychotherapist for 10+ years and has supervisory and leadership experience. She currently works at Correctional Facility.
She provides individual and group counseling to a range of individuals dealing with but not limited to Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar/Psychotic Disorders, trauma and other behavioral issues.
Bianca Morisset is a board-certified license mental health counselor in the state of New York who holds a dual B.A./M.A. degree in forensic psychology from John Jay college. She has years of clinical experience across a variety of settings such as large nonprofits, outpatient, correctional and private practice working with adults, adolescents and families who suffer from a variety of mental illnesses.Bianca has been a practicing psychotherapist for 10+ years and has supervisory and leadership experience. She currently works at Correctional Facility.
(347) 727-1622 View (347) 727-1622
Photo of Sohaib Javed, MHC-LP
Sohaib Javed
MHC-LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I also incorporate other styles such as play-therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and writing & art focused interventions in treating co-occurring issues related to depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use, addiction, grief, trauma, schizophrenia, and sexual & gender identity exploration.
My approach to therapy is providing a space for anyone that wishes to be heard, seen, and respected in a compassionate and non-judgmental manner. I’ve engaged in individual therapy, family therapy, and group therapy serving children, adolescents, young adults, and geriatric, BIPOC, and LGBTQIA+ identifying clientele. My primary approach is client- centered care in meeting individuals where they are in their healing process, and tailoring their treatment in a manner that is collaborative and inclusive.
I also incorporate other styles such as play-therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and writing & art focused interventions in treating co-occurring issues related to depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use, addiction, grief, trauma, schizophrenia, and sexual & gender identity exploration.
My approach to therapy is providing a space for anyone that wishes to be heard, seen, and respected in a compassionate and non-judgmental manner. I’ve engaged in individual therapy, family therapy, and group therapy serving children, adolescents, young adults, and geriatric, BIPOC, and LGBTQIA+ identifying clientele. My primary approach is client- centered care in meeting individuals where they are in their healing process, and tailoring their treatment in a manner that is collaborative and inclusive.
(929) 547-6418 View (929) 547-6418
Photo of Tiina Treasure, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Tiina Treasure
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Throughout my decade long career in New York City I have helped individuals seeking relief from mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and PTSD.
Do you ever feel stagnant or afraid to make decisions? Are your thoughts so clouded with anxiety and depression that it's become hard to see a path forward? If so, I can help. With over a decade of experience providing therapy in New York I have found that therapy works best with a dose of humor and curiosity. As a therapist my goal is to build a connection that is warm, nonjudgemental, and deeply attuned. I find that only then do my clients feel comfortable exploring the difficult issues (i.e. "the shit") that brought them to therapy to begin with, because a little light helps everyone be less afraid of the dark.
Throughout my decade long career in New York City I have helped individuals seeking relief from mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and PTSD.
Do you ever feel stagnant or afraid to make decisions? Are your thoughts so clouded with anxiety and depression that it's become hard to see a path forward? If so, I can help. With over a decade of experience providing therapy in New York I have found that therapy works best with a dose of humor and curiosity. As a therapist my goal is to build a connection that is warm, nonjudgemental, and deeply attuned. I find that only then do my clients feel comfortable exploring the difficult issues (i.e. "the shit") that brought them to therapy to begin with, because a little light helps everyone be less afraid of the dark.
(347) 609-7103 View (347) 609-7103
Photo of Miriam Kagan, Art Therapist, LCAT
Miriam Kagan
Art Therapist, LCAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11237
Other mental health diagnostics that I’ve worked with include PTSD, personality disorders, substance use disorder, OCD, DID, schizophrenia, and bipolar.
Seeking therapy or mental health counseling is a brave and arduous step in your healing journey. My goal is to make it as soothing and comforting as possible through a person-centered and strength-based approach. I am a licensed creative arts therapist, trained in utilizing the visual arts to assist in the therapeutic process with a Master’s degree in Creativity Development and Creative Arts Therapy from Pratt Institute. I am now offering Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, providing healing and support through the process of using ketamine as an enhancement to the therapeutic treatment.
Other mental health diagnostics that I’ve worked with include PTSD, personality disorders, substance use disorder, OCD, DID, schizophrenia, and bipolar.
Seeking therapy or mental health counseling is a brave and arduous step in your healing journey. My goal is to make it as soothing and comforting as possible through a person-centered and strength-based approach. I am a licensed creative arts therapist, trained in utilizing the visual arts to assist in the therapeutic process with a Master’s degree in Creativity Development and Creative Arts Therapy from Pratt Institute. I am now offering Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, providing healing and support through the process of using ketamine as an enhancement to the therapeutic treatment.
(347) 923-6350 View (347) 923-6350
Photo of Lyudmila Gonik, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Lyudmila Gonik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
My ideal client is someone who suffers from depression/ anxiety/ bipolar disorders, has relationships issues or difficulties to cope with work, school or life transitions stressors.
I believe in human capacity for positive change and overcoming adversity. One should never lose hope. I use a gentle and creative approach to guide my clients on their journey to healing and growth. I believe that one approach can not fit all and draw from various therapeutic approaches to accommodate my clients' personal needs.
My ideal client is someone who suffers from depression/ anxiety/ bipolar disorders, has relationships issues or difficulties to cope with work, school or life transitions stressors.
I believe in human capacity for positive change and overcoming adversity. One should never lose hope. I use a gentle and creative approach to guide my clients on their journey to healing and growth. I believe that one approach can not fit all and draw from various therapeutic approaches to accommodate my clients' personal needs.
(718) 736-2721 View (718) 736-2721
Photo of Ewa Opala, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LMFT-D
Ewa Opala
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LMFT-D
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
I support clients facing a range of life stressors and psychological concerns including anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and relationship issues.
I commend you for taking an important step towards better health and well-being. I will provide you with a safe and supportive space while we collaborate to find a path that works specifically for you. You will be able to process your thoughts and feelings, learn to cope with your current challenges more effectively, and discover the necessary tools that will help you achieve your desired outcomes.
I support clients facing a range of life stressors and psychological concerns including anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and relationship issues.
I commend you for taking an important step towards better health and well-being. I will provide you with a safe and supportive space while we collaborate to find a path that works specifically for you. You will be able to process your thoughts and feelings, learn to cope with your current challenges more effectively, and discover the necessary tools that will help you achieve your desired outcomes.
(929) 635-7086 View (929) 635-7086
Photo of Candice Comisi, MS Ed, MHC-LP
Candice Comisi
MS Ed, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Candice regularly treats people with Complex PTSD, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, and OCD.
Candice is a psychodynamic, person-centered therapist who approaches her clinical practice through a multicultural, feminist framework. In addition to her formal clinical training at Fordham University, she has 20+ years of organizing and advocacy experience within the LGBTQIA+ community.
Candice regularly treats people with Complex PTSD, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, and OCD.
Candice is a psychodynamic, person-centered therapist who approaches her clinical practice through a multicultural, feminist framework. In addition to her formal clinical training at Fordham University, she has 20+ years of organizing and advocacy experience within the LGBTQIA+ community.
(845) 209-2603 View (845) 209-2603
Photo of Melissa Wergland, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Melissa Wergland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
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 Dr. Regina Bordieri, Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Dr. Regina Bordieri
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I also offer short-term, skills-based relationship coaching, premarital counseling, & relationship enhancement programs, Discernment Counseling for couples considering divorce, & therapy for couples coping with a bipolar diagnosis.
As a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) I am a "specialist" in family and couple therapy with education and training that has REVOLVED around providing quality couple and family therapy. If you developed a heart condition, would you prefer to see a general practitioner or go directly to cardiologist? Relationship "check-ups" are also available!
I also offer short-term, skills-based relationship coaching, premarital counseling, & relationship enhancement programs, Discernment Counseling for couples considering divorce, & therapy for couples coping with a bipolar diagnosis.
As a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) I am a "specialist" in family and couple therapy with education and training that has REVOLVED around providing quality couple and family therapy. If you developed a heart condition, would you prefer to see a general practitioner or go directly to cardiologist? Relationship "check-ups" are also available!
(619) 332-0627 View (619) 332-0627
Photo of Jennifer Giuglianotti - Balanced Life Movement Creative Arts Therapy PLLC, Art Therapist, MS, BC-DMT, LCAT
Balanced Life Movement Creative Arts Therapy PLLC
Art Therapist, MS, BC-DMT, LCAT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11226
We specialize in Somatic, Art, Dance/Movement Therapy & Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) in the treatment of anxiety, chronic stress, bipolar disorder, and complex trauma.
More than just talk therapy: Are you struggling to find deeper purpose & balance? You may feel disconnected, anxious, lonely & are seeking a sense of meaningful connection while finally healing the root of your pain. Whether you are feeling lost in how to heal unresolved trauma, or need support in transition, we will co-create authentic connection to your true self & develop a plan to reach your goals creatively. Together, our therapists will help you find freedom, feel safe in your body, and strengthen your tools for emotional balance. Treatment options: Creative Arts Therapy, Somatic Therapy, & KAP.
We specialize in Somatic, Art, Dance/Movement Therapy & Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) in the treatment of anxiety, chronic stress, bipolar disorder, and complex trauma.
More than just talk therapy: Are you struggling to find deeper purpose & balance? You may feel disconnected, anxious, lonely & are seeking a sense of meaningful connection while finally healing the root of your pain. Whether you are feeling lost in how to heal unresolved trauma, or need support in transition, we will co-create authentic connection to your true self & develop a plan to reach your goals creatively. Together, our therapists will help you find freedom, feel safe in your body, and strengthen your tools for emotional balance. Treatment options: Creative Arts Therapy, Somatic Therapy, & KAP.
(646) 392-7983 View (646) 392-7983
Photo of Mary Lockwood, Counselor, MS, LMHC
Mary Lockwood
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11201
Mary has extensive experience working with individuals who have experienced symptoms from anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder,
She is compassionate about working collaboratively with each individual to achieve a sense of empowerment, well-being and balance. Mary has been fortunate to have gained experience for the past 15 years in a wide variety of mental health settings community mental health, inpatient and outpatient alcohol and drug treatment facilities
Mary has extensive experience working with individuals who have experienced symptoms from anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder,
She is compassionate about working collaboratively with each individual to achieve a sense of empowerment, well-being and balance. Mary has been fortunate to have gained experience for the past 15 years in a wide variety of mental health settings community mental health, inpatient and outpatient alcohol and drug treatment facilities
(929) 254-3900 View (929) 254-3900
Photo of April Barton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
April Barton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11217
I have significant experience supporting people managing life transitions, generalized anxiety, major depression, bipolar disorder and the impacts of trauma.
Everyone has gone through situations that affect their mental health and wellness. Too often, we internalize this and blame ourselves instead of seeking support and care. As a warm, dynamic and effective therapist I can help you break this cycle and find healing. I believe therapy is a collaborative effort and I work with clients to create a safe and supportive environment that fosters change and healing. I have worked with folks of all ages and walks of life and have a focus on those who are navigating life transitions, including young adults and the queer community.
I have significant experience supporting people managing life transitions, generalized anxiety, major depression, bipolar disorder and the impacts of trauma.
Everyone has gone through situations that affect their mental health and wellness. Too often, we internalize this and blame ourselves instead of seeking support and care. As a warm, dynamic and effective therapist I can help you break this cycle and find healing. I believe therapy is a collaborative effort and I work with clients to create a safe and supportive environment that fosters change and healing. I have worked with folks of all ages and walks of life and have a focus on those who are navigating life transitions, including young adults and the queer community.
(718) 577-5082 View (718) 577-5082
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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.