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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Christine Kelly, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine Kelly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fishkill, NY 12524  (Online Only)
Life is full of challenges, from high school bullies, through relationships and major milestones, there are so many times it is helpful to have someone to bounce life's oppositions at. I am seasoned in working with people of all walks of life, during so many of life challenges. Open to working with couples, as they face challenges in their relationship; as well as individuals going through challenges in life with family, work, or their own personal relationships. I am an experience provider to support lgbtqia+ clients as they explore their journey of better understanding themselves and cope with the challenges around them.
Life is full of challenges, from high school bullies, through relationships and major milestones, there are so many times it is helpful to have someone to bounce life's oppositions at. I am seasoned in working with people of all walks of life, during so many of life challenges. Open to working with couples, as they face challenges in their relationship; as well as individuals going through challenges in life with family, work, or their own personal relationships. I am an experience provider to support lgbtqia+ clients as they explore their journey of better understanding themselves and cope with the challenges around them.
(845) 851-0499 View (845) 851-0499

Online Therapists

Photo of Danielle Matias, LMHC, Counselor
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 Tyisha Gaskin - Footprints to Feel Better, Pre-Licensed Professional
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 Ashmee Fernandez - Footprints Mental Health Counseling, Pre-Licensed Professional
Footprints Mental Health Counseling
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Bronx, NY 10475
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, BPD, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities where confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Feel Better Therapy began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, BPD, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities where confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Feel Better Therapy began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
(646) 204-2295 View (646) 204-2295
Photo of Leah Grunwald - Touchstone SVC Private Practitioners Group, LCSW, MAFP, SIFI, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Touchstone SVC Private Practitioners Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MAFP, SIFI
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001
We are a group of Psychotherapists, each one specializing in a different area, to be able to provide expert treatment in specific needed areas. We have specialists trained in modalities such as Forensic, Addictions, Trauma, EMDR, Etc.We provide ongoing assessment, diagnosis, psychotherapy and treatment planning to a socio-culturally diverse adult and adolescent population diagnosed with a full-spectrum of psychiatric disorders including bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, anxiety-related disorders, substance abuse and dependence, PTSD, ADHD, Post-Partum Depression, Trauma related issues, Family and relationship issues etc.
We are a group of Psychotherapists, each one specializing in a different area, to be able to provide expert treatment in specific needed areas. We have specialists trained in modalities such as Forensic, Addictions, Trauma, EMDR, Etc.We provide ongoing assessment, diagnosis, psychotherapy and treatment planning to a socio-culturally diverse adult and adolescent population diagnosed with a full-spectrum of psychiatric disorders including bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, anxiety-related disorders, substance abuse and dependence, PTSD, ADHD, Post-Partum Depression, Trauma related issues, Family and relationship issues etc.
(929) 552-4542 View (929) 552-4542
Photo of Natalie Green, MSW, LMSW, PhD, Student
Natalie Green
Licensed Master Social Worker, MSW, LMSW, PhD, Student
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11238  (Online Only)
I have experience with CBT, DBT, and somatic and body-focused practices, and have worked with individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, life transitions, and relationship struggles.
Whether you are new to therapy or returning, finding someone who we feel understands and cares for us is hard. Each person has their own story and all of us have different reasons for seeking out help. I believe therapy is a safe place to share our stories, learn who we are, and develop effective skills to improve our lives. In therapy, I emphasize creating a nonjudgemental, empathetic, welcoming, and safe environment. I believe that patience and trust are essential for healing, and through the therapeutic relationship clients can explore their inner selves.
I have experience with CBT, DBT, and somatic and body-focused practices, and have worked with individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, life transitions, and relationship struggles.
Whether you are new to therapy or returning, finding someone who we feel understands and cares for us is hard. Each person has their own story and all of us have different reasons for seeking out help. I believe therapy is a safe place to share our stories, learn who we are, and develop effective skills to improve our lives. In therapy, I emphasize creating a nonjudgemental, empathetic, welcoming, and safe environment. I believe that patience and trust are essential for healing, and through the therapeutic relationship clients can explore their inner selves.
(719) 966-7730 View (719) 966-7730
Photo of Leah Grunwald, LCSW, LCFP, SIFI, FORENSI, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leah Grunwald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCFP, SIFI, FORENSI
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001
I have trained and specialize in several modalities such as EMDR, Forensic, DBT, CBT, Family Therapy, Addictions etc. I provide ongoing assessment, diagnosis, psychotherapy and treatment planning to a socio-culturally diverse adult and adolescent population diagnosed with a full-spectrum of psychiatric disorders including bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, anxiety-related disorders, substance abuse and dependence, PTSD, ADHD, Post-Partum Depression, Trauma related issues, Family and relationship issues etc.
I have trained and specialize in several modalities such as EMDR, Forensic, DBT, CBT, Family Therapy, Addictions etc. I provide ongoing assessment, diagnosis, psychotherapy and treatment planning to a socio-culturally diverse adult and adolescent population diagnosed with a full-spectrum of psychiatric disorders including bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, anxiety-related disorders, substance abuse and dependence, PTSD, ADHD, Post-Partum Depression, Trauma related issues, Family and relationship issues etc.
(347) 321-9011 View (347) 321-9011
Photo of Laura Asner, LCSW-R, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Asner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bay Shore, NY 11706
Our staff work with individuals with a full spectrum of diagnoses; bipolar disorder, phobias, OCD, and adjustment disorders.
Leader in Teletherapy. Feeling Overwhelmed? Looking for someone who can truly understand you? When you meet the right therapist you will know in the first minute. Your concerns are my priority. Call me to discuss your thoughts and feelings without any obligation. I am here for you and with a number of well qualified associates, you will be able to schedule a session asap.
Our staff work with individuals with a full spectrum of diagnoses; bipolar disorder, phobias, OCD, and adjustment disorders.
Leader in Teletherapy. Feeling Overwhelmed? Looking for someone who can truly understand you? When you meet the right therapist you will know in the first minute. Your concerns are my priority. Call me to discuss your thoughts and feelings without any obligation. I am here for you and with a number of well qualified associates, you will be able to schedule a session asap.
(631) 651-1596 View (631) 651-1596
Photo of C. Angelique Walker, LMSW
C. Angelique Walker
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10002  (Online Only)
Bipolar Disorder, Schizoaffective and Schizophrenia disorder.
Can we talk...my name is C. Angelique Walker, Licensed Master Social Worker. I am an empathic, sensitive, compassionate, and transparent Mental Health Clinician. Therapeutic rapport is essential. It can be achieved in various ways; I create a safe space with transparency, understanding, and an empathic style, waiting to talk with you. Understanding what is important to you and working in tandem with you will be the goal throughout the process. I recognize it takes courage to step out of the box of familiarity to confront one's desire for a better life.
Bipolar Disorder, Schizoaffective and Schizophrenia disorder.
Can we talk...my name is C. Angelique Walker, Licensed Master Social Worker. I am an empathic, sensitive, compassionate, and transparent Mental Health Clinician. Therapeutic rapport is essential. It can be achieved in various ways; I create a safe space with transparency, understanding, and an empathic style, waiting to talk with you. Understanding what is important to you and working in tandem with you will be the goal throughout the process. I recognize it takes courage to step out of the box of familiarity to confront one's desire for a better life.
(347) 997-8044 View (347) 997-8044
Photo of Lucien Beckford - Footprints Mental Health Counseling , Pre-Licensed Professional
Footprints Mental Health Counseling
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, BPD, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Feel Better Therapy began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, BPD, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Feel Better Therapy began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
(718) 550-5392 View (718) 550-5392
Photo of Karen Landmann - Karen Landmann, LCSW, PC, BA, MPhil, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
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 Rochelle Mary Gooding, MHC-LP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Rochelle Mary Gooding
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
Holbrook, NY 11741
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience in working with individuals with severe mental health disorders such as Bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, depression and substance abuse disorders.
My counseling approach is unique to each individual, working towards building a strong foundation of trust and support, setting goals and identifying coping strategies to navigate everyday life experiences.
I have experience in working with individuals with severe mental health disorders such as Bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, depression and substance abuse disorders.
My counseling approach is unique to each individual, working towards building a strong foundation of trust and support, setting goals and identifying coping strategies to navigate everyday life experiences.
(631) 888-9108 View (631) 888-9108
Photo of Michelle Fowler, LMSW, MBA, EdD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Fowler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MBA, EdD
Verified Verified
Selden, NY 11784
It is not always easy to find the perfect therapist. I pride myself in being trustworthy, empathic and culturally competent. If you are suffering from anxiety, you want to understand why and how to control and manage the anxiety. If you are suffering from depression, you want to feel good and excited, the feeling of wanting to live and have a wonderful life. If you are victim of abuse you need assistance and a safe place, we can work on it together. If you have mental health issues such as bipolar, schizophrenia I have been trained to help you with coping skills and manage your symptoms.
It is not always easy to find the perfect therapist. I pride myself in being trustworthy, empathic and culturally competent. If you are suffering from anxiety, you want to understand why and how to control and manage the anxiety. If you are suffering from depression, you want to feel good and excited, the feeling of wanting to live and have a wonderful life. If you are victim of abuse you need assistance and a safe place, we can work on it together. If you have mental health issues such as bipolar, schizophrenia I have been trained to help you with coping skills and manage your symptoms.
(631) 253-8091 View (631) 253-8091
Photo of Dr. Farnaz Namin Ph.d., PhD, MS, MA, EQ-i, CCC, Psychologist
Dr. Farnaz Namin Ph.d.
Psychologist, PhD, MS, MA, EQ-i, CCC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10022  (Online Only)
Dual trained in clinical psychology and I/O psychology, I help my clients gain the understanding they need to create self awareness, undo dysfunctional habits, detach from trauma & live fulfilled lives with love & hope. You may be struggling with past trauma, complex relationships, amidst a life transition, a career change, living with mental illness or, caretaking a loved one with mental illness. You may want to talk through your experiences or to strategize. This may be exactly what you need to make that world of difference.
Dual trained in clinical psychology and I/O psychology, I help my clients gain the understanding they need to create self awareness, undo dysfunctional habits, detach from trauma & live fulfilled lives with love & hope. You may be struggling with past trauma, complex relationships, amidst a life transition, a career change, living with mental illness or, caretaking a loved one with mental illness. You may want to talk through your experiences or to strategize. This may be exactly what you need to make that world of difference.
(646) 430-9527 View (646) 430-9527
Photo of Rezowana K. Linta, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Rezowana K. Linta
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baldwin, NY 11510
Taking this step in pursuing therapy to honor yourself and your journey of personal growth is to be commended! You are the expert of your own lived experience and together we will create a personalized and transformative plan to place you on the path toward increased self-awareness, self-compassion, and change. Using trauma-informed therapy, I specialize in providing individual/group counseling to survivors of Gender-Based Violence. In addition I have experience working with at-risk adolescent and the LGBTQ population. As a first-generation immigrant and a woman of color, I am particularly interested in empowering all individuals.
Taking this step in pursuing therapy to honor yourself and your journey of personal growth is to be commended! You are the expert of your own lived experience and together we will create a personalized and transformative plan to place you on the path toward increased self-awareness, self-compassion, and change. Using trauma-informed therapy, I specialize in providing individual/group counseling to survivors of Gender-Based Violence. In addition I have experience working with at-risk adolescent and the LGBTQ population. As a first-generation immigrant and a woman of color, I am particularly interested in empowering all individuals.
(516) 980-4183 View (516) 980-4183
Photo of Yunetta Baron, LMSW
Yunetta Baron
LMSW
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Rego Park, NY 11374
I am a Russian speaking Licensed Social Worker with over 20 years of experience in all age groups. If you are looking for the therapist who are able to help you recover from trauma, abuse, addiction, anger, depression or anxiety, please do not hesitate to contact me. I provide individual psychotherapy, counseling for couples, the elderly and family issues. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Meditation and insight oriented therapy. I am seeing my clients in Forest Hills office and in LI office.
I am a Russian speaking Licensed Social Worker with over 20 years of experience in all age groups. If you are looking for the therapist who are able to help you recover from trauma, abuse, addiction, anger, depression or anxiety, please do not hesitate to contact me. I provide individual psychotherapy, counseling for couples, the elderly and family issues. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Meditation and insight oriented therapy. I am seeing my clients in Forest Hills office and in LI office.
(917) 423-7620 View (917) 423-7620
Photo of Katherine M Schneider, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katherine M Schneider
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10128
Everyone has a story and it is my privilege to be invited into yours. My unique blend of warmth and tenacity set me apart as a therapist and allow me to work with clients towards meaningful change. I value the relationships I form with clients and my goal is to make everyone I work with feel safe, respected and accepted for who they are. My practice is shaped by a combination of formal education and hands-on experience, including training in psychoanalysis, couples counseling, ExRP, play therapy and family therapy.
Everyone has a story and it is my privilege to be invited into yours. My unique blend of warmth and tenacity set me apart as a therapist and allow me to work with clients towards meaningful change. I value the relationships I form with clients and my goal is to make everyone I work with feel safe, respected and accepted for who they are. My practice is shaped by a combination of formal education and hands-on experience, including training in psychoanalysis, couples counseling, ExRP, play therapy and family therapy.
(215) 608-3494 View (215) 608-3494
Photo of Sharon Tai, LMHC, MS, Counselor
Sharon Tai
Counselor, LMHC, MS
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001
"What is therapy? How can therapy help me?" There are a million answers to these questions, and it is up to you to find the right answer for yourself. People long for change when they are not satisfied with the status quo, and I am here to assist you connecting with yourself in order to achieve that change. I particularly work well with clients who are interested in exploring themselves at a deeper level, if you feel stuck in life, feel that you're not reaching your full potential, feel that you have a lot of questions on your mind, or feel that life is difficult, let's take some time to talk.
"What is therapy? How can therapy help me?" There are a million answers to these questions, and it is up to you to find the right answer for yourself. People long for change when they are not satisfied with the status quo, and I am here to assist you connecting with yourself in order to achieve that change. I particularly work well with clients who are interested in exploring themselves at a deeper level, if you feel stuck in life, feel that you're not reaching your full potential, feel that you have a lot of questions on your mind, or feel that life is difficult, let's take some time to talk.
(929) 242-5601 View (929) 242-5601
Photo of Janet Steiner, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janet Steiner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hewlett, NY 11557
Life can be stressful and challenging at times. Sometimes we need the guidance, empathy and support of a skilled therapist to help us through difficult times. I am a warm, dynamic and seasoned individual, family and couples therapist trained at the Ackerman Institute. My goal is to help my clients identify feelings, thoughts or behaviors which may affect their interpersonal relationships, self esteem or personal goals. I have advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples which helps identify negative patterns and creates greater trust, understanding and intimacy.
Life can be stressful and challenging at times. Sometimes we need the guidance, empathy and support of a skilled therapist to help us through difficult times. I am a warm, dynamic and seasoned individual, family and couples therapist trained at the Ackerman Institute. My goal is to help my clients identify feelings, thoughts or behaviors which may affect their interpersonal relationships, self esteem or personal goals. I have advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples which helps identify negative patterns and creates greater trust, understanding and intimacy.
(516) 569-5601 View (516) 569-5601
Photo of Michelle Ilyayev - Michelle Silver Lining Mental Health Counseling , LMHC, Counselor
Michelle Silver Lining Mental Health Counseling
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Flushing, NY 11367
Our clinical areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, martial issues, codependency, self-esteem, women’s issues, substance abuse, harm reduction, grief, and transitional concerns. Through evidenced based approaches, we aim to tailor our treatment approach specific to the needs of each individual. We believe in helping individuals build on their strengths, gain insight, and develop effective coping skills.
Our clinical areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, martial issues, codependency, self-esteem, women’s issues, substance abuse, harm reduction, grief, and transitional concerns. Through evidenced based approaches, we aim to tailor our treatment approach specific to the needs of each individual. We believe in helping individuals build on their strengths, gain insight, and develop effective coping skills.
(929) 348-2707 View (929) 348-2707

See more therapy options for Cold Spring

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.