Therapists in Century City, CA
I specialize in treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar D/O, variety of Addictions, Trauma, Intimacy and Relationship Issues, Eating D/O, Life Coaching and Performance Coaching.
WE OFFER EVENING AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS. My goal is to help you improve the quality of your life and make positive changes by reducing your Anxiety, Depression, eliminating stress, Addiction, and gaining back control. You will achieve a much higher quality of life in a safe, exclusive and caring environment. I will support you to discover your inner strength, and develop effective coping skills. You will experience freedom from emotional pain and feel empowered to achieve your goals and dreams. I provide CONCEIRGE care to executives and professionals.
I specialize in treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar D/O, variety of Addictions, Trauma, Intimacy and Relationship Issues, Eating D/O, Life Coaching and Performance Coaching.
WE OFFER EVENING AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS. My goal is to help you improve the quality of your life and make positive changes by reducing your Anxiety, Depression, eliminating stress, Addiction, and gaining back control. You will achieve a much higher quality of life in a safe, exclusive and caring environment. I will support you to discover your inner strength, and develop effective coping skills. You will experience freedom from emotional pain and feel empowered to achieve your goals and dreams. I provide CONCEIRGE care to executives and professionals.
I believe everyone can use some extra support sometimes. Whether you are seeking therapy to address a specific issue or because life feels overwhelming in general, I am here to help you identify your strengths, figure out how to cope with challenges, and guide you to increase your self esteem. Everyone's needs are unique, and I use a variety of evidence-based modalities. I provide a safe space for people to explore their deepest vulnerabilities with me. I am an empathetic listener, sensitive, compassionate, and I value the power of humor.
I believe everyone can use some extra support sometimes. Whether you are seeking therapy to address a specific issue or because life feels overwhelming in general, I am here to help you identify your strengths, figure out how to cope with challenges, and guide you to increase your self esteem. Everyone's needs are unique, and I use a variety of evidence-based modalities. I provide a safe space for people to explore their deepest vulnerabilities with me. I am an empathetic listener, sensitive, compassionate, and I value the power of humor.
Meisha (Mechelle) Thrasher
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Century City, CA 90067 (Online Only)
I am a Mindfulness and Trauma Resilience trainer who believes success and happiness result from a balanced mindset. Being stuck in unhealthy patterns, failing to accomplish the change we desire, or sustaining the nurturing relationships we deserve are all issues we expect to resolve on our own, but when we can't we feel defeated. Therapy is support that helps unearth our own best solutions while increasing skills and practices that grow fulfillment.
I am a Mindfulness and Trauma Resilience trainer who believes success and happiness result from a balanced mindset. Being stuck in unhealthy patterns, failing to accomplish the change we desire, or sustaining the nurturing relationships we deserve are all issues we expect to resolve on our own, but when we can't we feel defeated. Therapy is support that helps unearth our own best solutions while increasing skills and practices that grow fulfillment.
Rachelle Cohen - Beverly Hills Therapy for Adults
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Century City, CA 90067
The disease of "not good enough" infiltrates all aspects of our experience, robbing us of the joyful lives we deserve. We reject parts of ourselves we don’t like in an attempt to change but that usually does not work because self-acceptance, not rejection, is the key to growth and fulfillment. Only by accepting who we are today, can we become the person we want to be tomorrow. I am a licensed psychotherapist working with individuals, couples, and the queer community. I specialize in depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, harmful relationship patterns, and childhood relational trauma.
The disease of "not good enough" infiltrates all aspects of our experience, robbing us of the joyful lives we deserve. We reject parts of ourselves we don’t like in an attempt to change but that usually does not work because self-acceptance, not rejection, is the key to growth and fulfillment. Only by accepting who we are today, can we become the person we want to be tomorrow. I am a licensed psychotherapist working with individuals, couples, and the queer community. I specialize in depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, harmful relationship patterns, and childhood relational trauma.
More Therapists Nearby
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist as well as a Psychoanalytic candidate. In my work I aim to foster a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere in which individuals can develop insight and address non-productive patterns of behavior. I am experienced in treating a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. I have successfully worked with individuals who were subjected to parental narcissism, neglect, abuse, and other difficult and painful circumstances. I am also experienced in working with newly single individuals who are struggling to redefine their lives.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist as well as a Psychoanalytic candidate. In my work I aim to foster a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere in which individuals can develop insight and address non-productive patterns of behavior. I am experienced in treating a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. I have successfully worked with individuals who were subjected to parental narcissism, neglect, abuse, and other difficult and painful circumstances. I am also experienced in working with newly single individuals who are struggling to redefine their lives.
I am a licensed psychotherapist (LMFT) who believes in personalized and holistic care. My experience includes treating a variety of issues such as: depression, anxiety, behavioral disorders, relational problems, relationship difficulties, bipolar disorder, trauma, psychosis, substance abuse, as well as adjustment to phase of life dynamics, and issues affecting blended families. I specialize in the treatment of adolescents, young adults, individuals and families and have provided clinical direction for several residential and intensive outpatient treatment programs.
I am a licensed psychotherapist (LMFT) who believes in personalized and holistic care. My experience includes treating a variety of issues such as: depression, anxiety, behavioral disorders, relational problems, relationship difficulties, bipolar disorder, trauma, psychosis, substance abuse, as well as adjustment to phase of life dynamics, and issues affecting blended families. I specialize in the treatment of adolescents, young adults, individuals and families and have provided clinical direction for several residential and intensive outpatient treatment programs.
Kate Balestrieri
Psychologist, PsyD, PACT, CST, CSAT-S, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
"In any given moment we have two options: to step forward into growth or to step back into safety." - Abraham Maslow. Deciding to make changes in one's life takes courage, and you have taken the first step! My goal is to empower you to find relief from distress and to help you grow in concert with your goals. I specialize in treating a variety of concerns, such as posttraumatic stress disorder, addiction (substance and behavioral), eating disorders, body image issues, bipolar disorder, depression, and anxiety, as well as difficulties with anger management, relationships, interpersonal communication, recovery and relapse prevention.
"In any given moment we have two options: to step forward into growth or to step back into safety." - Abraham Maslow. Deciding to make changes in one's life takes courage, and you have taken the first step! My goal is to empower you to find relief from distress and to help you grow in concert with your goals. I specialize in treating a variety of concerns, such as posttraumatic stress disorder, addiction (substance and behavioral), eating disorders, body image issues, bipolar disorder, depression, and anxiety, as well as difficulties with anger management, relationships, interpersonal communication, recovery and relapse prevention.
Kris Winslow
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MBA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90210 (Online Only)
I see a lot of people who have been diagnosed with anxiety, depression, PTSD and bipolar disorder.
There is really no issue to big or too small to bring to therapy. I have seen people go through so much positive change because of their work in therapy and think it is such an awesome process. Just because we can go through life in survival mode and bouncing off our ups and downs, does not mean we should. I love to talk about everything therapy, so I encourage people to reach out.
I see a lot of people who have been diagnosed with anxiety, depression, PTSD and bipolar disorder.
There is really no issue to big or too small to bring to therapy. I have seen people go through so much positive change because of their work in therapy and think it is such an awesome process. Just because we can go through life in survival mode and bouncing off our ups and downs, does not mean we should. I love to talk about everything therapy, so I encourage people to reach out.
Hannah Pasternak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90067 (Online Only)
bipolar disorder, depression, divorce, domestic violence, family conflict, LGBTQIA+ issues, trauma, PTSD, substance use, self-esteem, and grief.
: : CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS : : I believe that seeking support for your current difficulties shows strength and courage. As a therapist, I provide a non-judgemental, empathetic, and warm environment to examine life's challenges. My aim is to provide spaces of safety, realness, and compassion to work collaboratively towards the goals you see for yourself. I use a strengths-based and skills-based approach to identify your concerns and create a constructive plan for your healing and moving forward. I have experience working with adolescents and adult clients navigating ADHD, adolescent behavior issues, anxiety,
bipolar disorder, depression, divorce, domestic violence, family conflict, LGBTQIA+ issues, trauma, PTSD, substance use, self-esteem, and grief.
: : CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS : : I believe that seeking support for your current difficulties shows strength and courage. As a therapist, I provide a non-judgemental, empathetic, and warm environment to examine life's challenges. My aim is to provide spaces of safety, realness, and compassion to work collaboratively towards the goals you see for yourself. I use a strengths-based and skills-based approach to identify your concerns and create a constructive plan for your healing and moving forward. I have experience working with adolescents and adult clients navigating ADHD, adolescent behavior issues, anxiety,
Macayla Meyers
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90035
My area of expertise includes treating various mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, gender dysphoria, substance use disorders.
Are racing thoughts keeping you up night? Tired of ER visits from panic attacks? Struggling to focus or pay attention? Feeling overwhelmed in crowds? Overall lack of motivation or energy? Do your emotions feel like a rollercoaster? Spending more time on hold or waitlists instead of getting the card you need? Take the first step and Book a consultation today - leave the rest up to us! Every client gets a personal concierge and other exclusive benefits. Schedule to learn more. All inclusive mental health and primary care. Appointments available 7 days per week for returning clients. Every client gets a personal concierge.
My area of expertise includes treating various mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, gender dysphoria, substance use disorders.
Are racing thoughts keeping you up night? Tired of ER visits from panic attacks? Struggling to focus or pay attention? Feeling overwhelmed in crowds? Overall lack of motivation or energy? Do your emotions feel like a rollercoaster? Spending more time on hold or waitlists instead of getting the card you need? Take the first step and Book a consultation today - leave the rest up to us! Every client gets a personal concierge and other exclusive benefits. Schedule to learn more. All inclusive mental health and primary care. Appointments available 7 days per week for returning clients. Every client gets a personal concierge.
I support social/physical transitioning and have experience with depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar disorder, and more.
Hi My name is Wyatt Okeefe I identify as queer / transmasc, my focus is on fostering a welcoming and inclusive space for individuals across the LGBTQ+ spectrum, as well as those who are neurodivergent, straight, or gender conforming. My goal is to ensure that everyone feels valued and supported in my practice. I have over 20 years experience, and offer private online sessions, holding licenses in Washington, Oregon, Georgia, Florida, California and New York.
I support social/physical transitioning and have experience with depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar disorder, and more.
Hi My name is Wyatt Okeefe I identify as queer / transmasc, my focus is on fostering a welcoming and inclusive space for individuals across the LGBTQ+ spectrum, as well as those who are neurodivergent, straight, or gender conforming. My goal is to ensure that everyone feels valued and supported in my practice. I have over 20 years experience, and offer private online sessions, holding licenses in Washington, Oregon, Georgia, Florida, California and New York.
Monica L. Martocci, MA, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90212 (Online Only)
Specializing in the treatment of Adolescents, Adults, Active Duty Military/Veterans, and their Families. Focusing on Addictions, Eating Disorders, Trauma/PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Self-Esteem, Relationship Issues, Divorce, Sexuality Issues, Bipolar Disorder, Child/Sexual Abuse, Dissociative Disorders, Anger Management, Domestic Violence, and Self-Harm.
Specializing in the treatment of Adolescents, Adults, Active Duty Military/Veterans, and their Families. Focusing on Addictions, Eating Disorders, Trauma/PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Self-Esteem, Relationship Issues, Divorce, Sexuality Issues, Bipolar Disorder, Child/Sexual Abuse, Dissociative Disorders, Anger Management, Domestic Violence, and Self-Harm.
Dr. Crystal Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, Ed D, LMFT
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90212 (Online Only)
Hello! I’m Dr. Crystal Williams, a behavioral scientist and licensed psychotherapist based in Beverly Hills. I have a Master of Arts degree (MFT) and a Ph.D. in Education. I specialize in working with clients and families struggling with eating disorders and have nearly 10 years' experience. I also work with clients struggling with dual diagnosis (depression, anxiety, OCD, and bipolar) and all forms of addiction (substance use, gambling, sex and love, codependency and internet). I offer psychotherapy at its finest.
Hello! I’m Dr. Crystal Williams, a behavioral scientist and licensed psychotherapist based in Beverly Hills. I have a Master of Arts degree (MFT) and a Ph.D. in Education. I specialize in working with clients and families struggling with eating disorders and have nearly 10 years' experience. I also work with clients struggling with dual diagnosis (depression, anxiety, OCD, and bipolar) and all forms of addiction (substance use, gambling, sex and love, codependency and internet). I offer psychotherapy at its finest.
My areas of expertise include Social Anxiety, Depression, Sexuality and Sexual Health, Bipolar Disorder, Grief, Life Transition, Relationship Issues, Internet Abuse, Legal Issues, Special Training in Social Habituation.
I am not currently accepting new clients. Welcome! Individual therapy is a powerful way to discover the thoughts, feelings and actions that prevent you from experiencing more fulfilling relationships in life. I help clients develop an understanding of the challenges and obstacles that currently exist for them, as well as providing tools that support life long balance and behavioral change. Rather than blaming and remaining mired in the past, you and I collaborate on the best path for movement forward.
My areas of expertise include Social Anxiety, Depression, Sexuality and Sexual Health, Bipolar Disorder, Grief, Life Transition, Relationship Issues, Internet Abuse, Legal Issues, Special Training in Social Habituation.
I am not currently accepting new clients. Welcome! Individual therapy is a powerful way to discover the thoughts, feelings and actions that prevent you from experiencing more fulfilling relationships in life. I help clients develop an understanding of the challenges and obstacles that currently exist for them, as well as providing tools that support life long balance and behavioral change. Rather than blaming and remaining mired in the past, you and I collaborate on the best path for movement forward.
Laura Twersky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment to individuals with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders.
I am a therapist specializing in cognitive-based therapies where we take an active stance at changing the way you talk to yourself and act in your life. While we cannot erase traumas from the past or inevitable pain we may encounter today or in the future, I can equip you with tools to face these obstacles and feel confident in your ability to tackle problems as they arise.
I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment to individuals with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders.
I am a therapist specializing in cognitive-based therapies where we take an active stance at changing the way you talk to yourself and act in your life. While we cannot erase traumas from the past or inevitable pain we may encounter today or in the future, I can equip you with tools to face these obstacles and feel confident in your ability to tackle problems as they arise.
Stephanie Drotman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90210 (Online Only)
DBT Family Classes are also available to families and loved ones of those struggling with BPD, SUD, or Bipolar Disorder.
Is your daily life chaotic and distressing? Do you struggle to navigate friendships or romantic relationships? Are there days you feel like you just cannot stop your thoughts from spiraling out of control? I am an intensively trained DBT therapist specializing in Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Complex Trauma, Relationship / Attachment issues, and Addictive / Co-Occurring Disorders. I utilize a non-judgmental, person-centered, strengths-based approach, incorporating additional evidence-based modalities such as ACT, CBT, Prolonged Exposure, TF-CBT, and IFS to help you begin to build your life worth living.
DBT Family Classes are also available to families and loved ones of those struggling with BPD, SUD, or Bipolar Disorder.
Is your daily life chaotic and distressing? Do you struggle to navigate friendships or romantic relationships? Are there days you feel like you just cannot stop your thoughts from spiraling out of control? I am an intensively trained DBT therapist specializing in Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Complex Trauma, Relationship / Attachment issues, and Addictive / Co-Occurring Disorders. I utilize a non-judgmental, person-centered, strengths-based approach, incorporating additional evidence-based modalities such as ACT, CBT, Prolonged Exposure, TF-CBT, and IFS to help you begin to build your life worth living.
) / Addictions/ ADHD / ADD/ Adolescents/ Adoption Issues/ Adult Children Of Alcoholics/ Adults/ Aging/ Senior issues/ Anger Management/ Anxiety Disorders Art/ Therapy Asperger / Bipolar Disorder/ Career Transition/ Childhood Abuse/ Children/ Christian Counseling/ Chronic Illness/ Chronic Pain/ Co-Dependency Issues/ Cognitive Behavioral Therapy/ Couples/ Crisis Intervention/ Depression/ Domestic Violence/ Eating Disorders/ EMDR/ Family Therapy/ Farsi/ Gay / Lesbian Issues / Gender Identity /Grief / Loss Group Therapy /Homeopathic Medicine/ Hungarian/ Learning Differences/ Life Transitions Marital / Couples Therapy /Memory Loss/ Men's Issues/ Minority / Cultural Issues/Mood Disorders /OCD/Obsessive Compulsive Disorder /Panic Disorders/Parenting Issues Performance Anxiety/ Phobias/ Play Therapy /Polish /Post Traumatic Stress Disorder// PTSD Post-Partum Depression/ Premarital Counseling/ Psychiatry/ Psychodynamic Psychotherapy Relationship Difficulties/ Separation and Divorce /Spanish /Spiritual/Religious Issues/ Stress Management /Substance Abuse/ Terminal Illness/ Transitional Stress /Trauma /Veterans Women's Issues/ Workplace Stress / EAP.
We are a group practice Network offering video and in person app Our vision is to connect you to a network of some of the most talented, highly qualified and compassionate professionals in the mental health field, each with a broad range of skills and unique personal style. Our therapists and psychiatrists are uniquely equipped to work with individuals, children, adolescents, couples and families. They will help you access the keys to your emotional/psychological healing, wholeness and sense of well being. Once you are connected with a therapist, all communication with them will be handled via their individual voice-mail or email.
) / Addictions/ ADHD / ADD/ Adolescents/ Adoption Issues/ Adult Children Of Alcoholics/ Adults/ Aging/ Senior issues/ Anger Management/ Anxiety Disorders Art/ Therapy Asperger / Bipolar Disorder/ Career Transition/ Childhood Abuse/ Children/ Christian Counseling/ Chronic Illness/ Chronic Pain/ Co-Dependency Issues/ Cognitive Behavioral Therapy/ Couples/ Crisis Intervention/ Depression/ Domestic Violence/ Eating Disorders/ EMDR/ Family Therapy/ Farsi/ Gay / Lesbian Issues / Gender Identity /Grief / Loss Group Therapy /Homeopathic Medicine/ Hungarian/ Learning Differences/ Life Transitions Marital / Couples Therapy /Memory Loss/ Men's Issues/ Minority / Cultural Issues/Mood Disorders /OCD/Obsessive Compulsive Disorder /Panic Disorders/Parenting Issues Performance Anxiety/ Phobias/ Play Therapy /Polish /Post Traumatic Stress Disorder// PTSD Post-Partum Depression/ Premarital Counseling/ Psychiatry/ Psychodynamic Psychotherapy Relationship Difficulties/ Separation and Divorce /Spanish /Spiritual/Religious Issues/ Stress Management /Substance Abuse/ Terminal Illness/ Transitional Stress /Trauma /Veterans Women's Issues/ Workplace Stress / EAP.
We are a group practice Network offering video and in person app Our vision is to connect you to a network of some of the most talented, highly qualified and compassionate professionals in the mental health field, each with a broad range of skills and unique personal style. Our therapists and psychiatrists are uniquely equipped to work with individuals, children, adolescents, couples and families. They will help you access the keys to your emotional/psychological healing, wholeness and sense of well being. Once you are connected with a therapist, all communication with them will be handled via their individual voice-mail or email.
I specialize in the treatment of adults and college students who are experiencing depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, alcohol and substance abuse, bipolar disorder, adult ADD, sexual problems, interpersonal, academic and occupational difficulties among other problems.
My psychiatric practice is 100% virtual on Zoom with medical licenses in California, DC, MD, VA, NY, NJ, and CA. I have been in the private practice of psychodynamic psychiatry for over three decades. I provide a safe, warm and trusting environment in which you can discuss your deepest concerns and you can feel that you are being listened to and truly heard. I prescribe medication when indicated as an adjunt to your psychotherapy. I only prescribed medication to patients who are also meeting with me in psychotherapy. I am out-of-network with all insurance companies, and I am opted-out of Medicare and Medicaid.
I specialize in the treatment of adults and college students who are experiencing depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, alcohol and substance abuse, bipolar disorder, adult ADD, sexual problems, interpersonal, academic and occupational difficulties among other problems.
My psychiatric practice is 100% virtual on Zoom with medical licenses in California, DC, MD, VA, NY, NJ, and CA. I have been in the private practice of psychodynamic psychiatry for over three decades. I provide a safe, warm and trusting environment in which you can discuss your deepest concerns and you can feel that you are being listened to and truly heard. I prescribe medication when indicated as an adjunt to your psychotherapy. I only prescribed medication to patients who are also meeting with me in psychotherapy. I am out-of-network with all insurance companies, and I am opted-out of Medicare and Medicaid.
Dr. Mystkowski (he/his/him) practices within a cognitive-behavioral framework, including mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, compassion-focused therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy, specializing in treating adults with anxiety and mood disorders and relational problems and phase of life transitions. In addition, he has training in the psychological treatment of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), insomnia, and bipolar disorder, as well as an extensive background working with LGBTQ+ clients. Dr. Mystkowski is Board Certified in Behavioral & Cognitive Psychology (ABPP), and is a certified CBT therapist (A-CBT).
Dr. Mystkowski (he/his/him) practices within a cognitive-behavioral framework, including mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, compassion-focused therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy, specializing in treating adults with anxiety and mood disorders and relational problems and phase of life transitions. In addition, he has training in the psychological treatment of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), insomnia, and bipolar disorder, as well as an extensive background working with LGBTQ+ clients. Dr. Mystkowski is Board Certified in Behavioral & Cognitive Psychology (ABPP), and is a certified CBT therapist (A-CBT).
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist that works with all types of relational issues. Most of my experience has been gained through treating individuals, couples, and families. Individually, I work with clients to help them cope and gain skills to use on their own. With couples, I utilize methods to give couples the ability to communicate and turn toward each other instead of away. With families, I use a systems approach to help the family interact and communicate their needs.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist that works with all types of relational issues. Most of my experience has been gained through treating individuals, couples, and families. Individually, I work with clients to help them cope and gain skills to use on their own. With couples, I utilize methods to give couples the ability to communicate and turn toward each other instead of away. With families, I use a systems approach to help the family interact and communicate their needs.
See more therapy options for Century City
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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.