Therapists in Sherman Oaks, CA
![Photo of Adam Bruno, LMFT, PPSA, PsyD, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4703be84-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Adam Bruno
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PPSA, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
I am a licensed MFT with experience as a hospice volunteer, behaviorist, and career counselor. I have worked with everyone from preschool children to centenarians. I have been in the mental health field for over ten years. I have an office in Sherman Oaks, and I offer free evaluations and consultations.
I am a licensed MFT with experience as a hospice volunteer, behaviorist, and career counselor. I have worked with everyone from preschool children to centenarians. I have been in the mental health field for over ten years. I have an office in Sherman Oaks, and I offer free evaluations and consultations.
![Photo of Dr. Grayce Pedersen, PsyD, PPS, MA, Psychological Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d3f1e054-c69e-4ee6-9ec9-254226e6b2ab/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Grayce Pedersen
Psychological Associate, PsyD, PPS, MA
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403 (Online Only)
Dr. Grayce Pedersen is a psychological associate under the supervision of Dr. Farzaneh Ehsan. She is registered with the Ca Board of Psychology with over 7 years of clinical experience. Dr. Pedersen provides care for all individuals. 12-99. She has worked with children, adolescents, and adults throughout multiple stages of their lives. She focuses on breaking through the challenges of depression, anxiety, ADD, ADHD, and OCD. Dr. Pedersen is a specialist in EBT's: CBT, DBT, MBCT, and psychological assessments. Dr. Pedersen received her BA from UCLA, MA from LMU, and Doctorate from U Chicago SPP.
Dr. Grayce Pedersen is a psychological associate under the supervision of Dr. Farzaneh Ehsan. She is registered with the Ca Board of Psychology with over 7 years of clinical experience. Dr. Pedersen provides care for all individuals. 12-99. She has worked with children, adolescents, and adults throughout multiple stages of their lives. She focuses on breaking through the challenges of depression, anxiety, ADD, ADHD, and OCD. Dr. Pedersen is a specialist in EBT's: CBT, DBT, MBCT, and psychological assessments. Dr. Pedersen received her BA from UCLA, MA from LMU, and Doctorate from U Chicago SPP.
![Photo of Shelley L Segal, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e497be8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a clinical psychologist working with adolescents, adults and couples, my goal is to help people struggling with life's challenges and difficulties. I will help you gain insight into short and long-term issues and provide you with valuable tools and techniques to provide relief from symptoms and/or situations that are negatively impacting your life. This results in a better sense of self and well-being and more fulfilling relationships. I treat a wide array of psychological problems such as anxiety and depression and specialize in treating those suffering with chronic pain.
As a clinical psychologist working with adolescents, adults and couples, my goal is to help people struggling with life's challenges and difficulties. I will help you gain insight into short and long-term issues and provide you with valuable tools and techniques to provide relief from symptoms and/or situations that are negatively impacting your life. This results in a better sense of self and well-being and more fulfilling relationships. I treat a wide array of psychological problems such as anxiety and depression and specialize in treating those suffering with chronic pain.
![Photo of Judith Leone-Friedman - Dr. Judith Friedman, Reflect Neuropsychology, MEd, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50d210b6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Judith Friedman, Reflect Neuropsychology
Psychologist, MEd, PsyD
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
I am a Neuropsychologist located in Calabasas with over 25 years of specialized training in neuropsychological testing, and adolescent, adult and geriatric psychology from Harvard University and UCLA. I accept insurance, and specialize in the in the evidence-based assessment of individuals with academic, learning, and other neurocognitive differences that effect academic, social, and behavioral functioning. My team and I use a scientific approach to provide each patient with an individualized assessment based on empirically-validated research of brain-based conditions (e.g., ADHD, dyslexia, brain injury, epilepsy, dementia, etc.).
I am a Neuropsychologist located in Calabasas with over 25 years of specialized training in neuropsychological testing, and adolescent, adult and geriatric psychology from Harvard University and UCLA. I accept insurance, and specialize in the in the evidence-based assessment of individuals with academic, learning, and other neurocognitive differences that effect academic, social, and behavioral functioning. My team and I use a scientific approach to provide each patient with an individualized assessment based on empirically-validated research of brain-based conditions (e.g., ADHD, dyslexia, brain injury, epilepsy, dementia, etc.).
![Photo of Daniel Hai, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae1f6fad-bab3-48fc-a21a-f3d2d2141420/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Daniel Hai is a licensed clinical neuropsychologist who combines the latest research with the knowledge he has gained in his years of practice and lifelong study of both western and eastern psychotherapy treatments. His practice incorporates a humanistic approach that recognizes the uniqueness of each individual. Custom assessments and treatment plans are one way this approach is evident in his practice. Instead of treating a diagnosis, Dr. Hai’s treatment plans consider the whole person from a holistic view that seeks to identify and resolve the root of the problem rather than just treat symptoms.
Dr. Daniel Hai is a licensed clinical neuropsychologist who combines the latest research with the knowledge he has gained in his years of practice and lifelong study of both western and eastern psychotherapy treatments. His practice incorporates a humanistic approach that recognizes the uniqueness of each individual. Custom assessments and treatment plans are one way this approach is evident in his practice. Instead of treating a diagnosis, Dr. Hai’s treatment plans consider the whole person from a holistic view that seeks to identify and resolve the root of the problem rather than just treat symptoms.
![Photo of Ronald Kaufman - Family Time Centers, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ed70eb57-a663-45e9-99b2-ead9e45c9cf3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Family Time centers are community hubs where everyone can get the help or support they need. They can tap into community resources, learn new parenting skills, and/or get individualized support. We provide a location where challenges can be explored and personal relationships can be strengthened. If you or someone in your family is struggling, we have expert therapists who can help a parent or a child receive the counseling they need. We provide an inclusive location that is welcoming, handicap accessible, and reflective of the core values of healing your inner self.
Family Time centers are community hubs where everyone can get the help or support they need. They can tap into community resources, learn new parenting skills, and/or get individualized support. We provide a location where challenges can be explored and personal relationships can be strengthened. If you or someone in your family is struggling, we have expert therapists who can help a parent or a child receive the counseling they need. We provide an inclusive location that is welcoming, handicap accessible, and reflective of the core values of healing your inner self.
![Photo of Julia Turetskaya, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e55624a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to my practice! The decision to seek psychotherapy is not always easy, so I want to praise you for taking this first important step! In our work together, we will focus on increasing your awareness of how learned thoughts, emotions and behaviors can create psychological pain and even negative physical symptoms. We will develop your ability to manage these obstacles in order to live a more happy and fulfilling life. Stress, emotional pain, and physical discomfort do not have to get in your way of having healthy relationships, giving your best performance at work, or achieving your goals!
Welcome to my practice! The decision to seek psychotherapy is not always easy, so I want to praise you for taking this first important step! In our work together, we will focus on increasing your awareness of how learned thoughts, emotions and behaviors can create psychological pain and even negative physical symptoms. We will develop your ability to manage these obstacles in order to live a more happy and fulfilling life. Stress, emotional pain, and physical discomfort do not have to get in your way of having healthy relationships, giving your best performance at work, or achieving your goals!
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Monica L Martocci - Monica L. Martocci, MA, LMFT, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bbffdde-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Monica L. Martocci, MA, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90404 (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.
![Photo of Melissa Gentry, PsyD, CCHt, MA, CTE, Psychological Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6257f1da-8de3-412f-b58f-c9a5b7c269a2/5/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Gentry
Psychological Associate, PsyD, CCHt, MA, CTE
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Feeling stressed & overwhelmed? Seeking balance & peace of mind? I am dedicated to assisting clients in finding balance & acquiring emotional regulation tools to navigate their fast-paced lives, so that they can accomplish their goals & live the life of their dreams. I have supported clients with anxiety, ADHD, panic, depression, bipolar, stress, relationships, divorce, self-esteem, trauma, codependency, sexual concerns, weight loss, & addictions. Therapeutic support & resources await. All ages are welcome. Let's collaborate & grow.
Feeling stressed & overwhelmed? Seeking balance & peace of mind? I am dedicated to assisting clients in finding balance & acquiring emotional regulation tools to navigate their fast-paced lives, so that they can accomplish their goals & live the life of their dreams. I have supported clients with anxiety, ADHD, panic, depression, bipolar, stress, relationships, divorce, self-esteem, trauma, codependency, sexual concerns, weight loss, & addictions. Therapeutic support & resources await. All ages are welcome. Let's collaborate & grow.
![Photo of Danielle DiOrio, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45410db6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Dr. Cassidy Blair, MA, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c94a38c9-1f7c-49d5-ac44-58cf0103b4b1/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Parvin Naficy - Neuro-Somatic Therapy - Parvin Naficy, Psy D., MA, PsyD](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/506b556e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Neuro-Somatic Therapy - Parvin Naficy, Psy D.
MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
Neurofeedback works best supported by Somatic Therapy. Parvin's multifaceted somatic approach with hand-on sacrocranial work and background in clinical psychology is a perfect preparation and compliment to Neurofeedback. The focus of her work is on facilitating a more balanced, wholesome state in the brain. With a new level of functioning, clients have a chance to develop new habits and accomplish new goals. Typical training sessions last 90 minutes. Sometimes shorter 50 minute sessions with only neurofeedback are warranted.
Neurofeedback works best supported by Somatic Therapy. Parvin's multifaceted somatic approach with hand-on sacrocranial work and background in clinical psychology is a perfect preparation and compliment to Neurofeedback. The focus of her work is on facilitating a more balanced, wholesome state in the brain. With a new level of functioning, clients have a chance to develop new habits and accomplish new goals. Typical training sessions last 90 minutes. Sometimes shorter 50 minute sessions with only neurofeedback are warranted.
![Photo of Lynne Meyer, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d9ebfaf-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal client is someone who wants to understand what is not working in their lives and allows me to help them to learn and to grow. I think it's a collaborative effort on my part as well as the client. I see each client as bringing a unique internal perspective that needs to be thought about carefully and with insight.
My ideal client is someone who wants to understand what is not working in their lives and allows me to help them to learn and to grow. I think it's a collaborative effort on my part as well as the client. I see each client as bringing a unique internal perspective that needs to be thought about carefully and with insight.
![Photo of Dean Leav - Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, PsyD, QME, Author, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bff76b9e-bf95-4a55-84f1-28f5d75ea574/2/320x400.jpeg)
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
![Photo of Jeffrey Aaron Spike - Spike The Psych, MA, LEP, #3394, CCTMHP](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/538df876-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Spike The Psych
Licensed Educational Psychologist, MA, LEP, #3394, CCTMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodland Hills, CA 91367
Hi, I'm Jeffrey Spike, AKA Spike the Psych. Unlike several mental health providers and ADHD coaches who overcharge, I'm certified, I charge less, and I'm excellent at what I do. I've been a licensed educational psychologist since 2012, I started my career as a School Psychologist in 2005. I won the LA Association of School Psychologists Outstanding Psychologist of the Year award. With 20 years of experience, I have successfully evaluated and counseled people (kids and adults) with Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, emotional and behavior difficulties; I give them the help they deserve for success. My services are in office or virtual (online).
Hi, I'm Jeffrey Spike, AKA Spike the Psych. Unlike several mental health providers and ADHD coaches who overcharge, I'm certified, I charge less, and I'm excellent at what I do. I've been a licensed educational psychologist since 2012, I started my career as a School Psychologist in 2005. I won the LA Association of School Psychologists Outstanding Psychologist of the Year award. With 20 years of experience, I have successfully evaluated and counseled people (kids and adults) with Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, emotional and behavior difficulties; I give them the help they deserve for success. My services are in office or virtual (online).
![Photo of K Drorit (Dee) Gaines, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e5c861b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Dee Gaines is trained extensively in Neuropsychology and Clinical Psychology and is involved in both clinical and research. She has conducted hundreds of diagnostic neuropsychological evaluations including forensic, dementia, brain-injury, combat-related PTSD, developmental disabilities, and severe mental health disorders, and received her training in institutions such as UCLA, Veterans Affairs, Juvenile Justice, and Mental Health centers. She is the creative mind behind the development and implementation of a unique Mind-Body cognitive technique and lectured nationally and internationally. In addition to neuropsychology Dr. Gaines also provides therapy for a variety of psychological issues.
Dr. Dee Gaines is trained extensively in Neuropsychology and Clinical Psychology and is involved in both clinical and research. She has conducted hundreds of diagnostic neuropsychological evaluations including forensic, dementia, brain-injury, combat-related PTSD, developmental disabilities, and severe mental health disorders, and received her training in institutions such as UCLA, Veterans Affairs, Juvenile Justice, and Mental Health centers. She is the creative mind behind the development and implementation of a unique Mind-Body cognitive technique and lectured nationally and internationally. In addition to neuropsychology Dr. Gaines also provides therapy for a variety of psychological issues.
![Photo of Mario Prietto, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cfd74b0f-c661-4aa0-b05a-c280d7621455/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mario Prietto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90046
In 2023 and beyond, my work ethic continues: Working together, we greet Pain and Suffering and ask "How will you serve my development?" Psychotherapy isn't about finding perfection, but pursuing wholeness and respecting our Self. It's simple. It's complicated. It can be very difficult, and and there are laughter and surprises to be enjoyed. Go for it: tend to your emotional to-do list, relationship overhaul/finesse, deep discovery, gather energy to take your journey to the next level. Mid-life? Starting out on your own? Starting/ending a relationship? Creative and stuck? Uncertain times require what we have— wisdom and creativity.
In 2023 and beyond, my work ethic continues: Working together, we greet Pain and Suffering and ask "How will you serve my development?" Psychotherapy isn't about finding perfection, but pursuing wholeness and respecting our Self. It's simple. It's complicated. It can be very difficult, and and there are laughter and surprises to be enjoyed. Go for it: tend to your emotional to-do list, relationship overhaul/finesse, deep discovery, gather energy to take your journey to the next level. Mid-life? Starting out on your own? Starting/ending a relationship? Creative and stuck? Uncertain times require what we have— wisdom and creativity.
![Photo of Miriam Lamb, LMFT, MA, MS HR, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/39e1f58a-41df-499b-bb03-988349954a69/1/320x400.jpeg)
Miriam Lamb
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, MS HR
Verified Verified
North Hollywood, CA 91602 (Online Only)
I work with a wide array of clients. If you are self motivated; enjoy exploration and play; (both kids and adults), and are interested in exploring all facets of yourself, please call today. I use a holistic approach, and explore all factors which affect mental health including physical health, nutrition, family dynamics, and relationships.
I work with a wide array of clients. If you are self motivated; enjoy exploration and play; (both kids and adults), and are interested in exploring all facets of yourself, please call today. I use a holistic approach, and explore all factors which affect mental health including physical health, nutrition, family dynamics, and relationships.
![Photo of Glenn L Farr - A Guided Journey Counseling (Glenn L. Farr), MSW, LCSW, Individ, Relatio, Family, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b7cdd692-f5b3-4b5e-b576-f502b35b2a96/3/320x400.jpeg)
A Guided Journey Counseling (Glenn L. Farr)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, Individ, Relatio, Family
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
Hi, do you want deeper peace, acceptance, love & joy for yourself, your relationships, and your family? Providing you with tools, perspective, and support is one of the most rewarding aspects of life for me. My name's Glenn and thank you for visiting my profile. I can't wait for you to turn life's challenges from stumbling blocks into stepping stones to a much better life than you ever thought possible. I look forward to our meeting, until then, take care. Your journey to a better life awaits. Call for a free phone consultation: 442-888-0873. Glenn Farr
Hi, do you want deeper peace, acceptance, love & joy for yourself, your relationships, and your family? Providing you with tools, perspective, and support is one of the most rewarding aspects of life for me. My name's Glenn and thank you for visiting my profile. I can't wait for you to turn life's challenges from stumbling blocks into stepping stones to a much better life than you ever thought possible. I look forward to our meeting, until then, take care. Your journey to a better life awaits. Call for a free phone consultation: 442-888-0873. Glenn Farr
![Photo of Monica Elizabeth Williams, LEP, LPCC, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52093354-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
As a previously practicing educational psychologist in an alternative school setting, I often encountered students who moved through the public school systems without the support they needed to learn basic foundational skills. Creating a lack of understanding of how they learn; causing low self-esteem and low academic and social functioning. Additionally, these academic difficulties often bring about behavior challenges in school and in the home setting, as students feel incapable of learning to their full potential. These students often require assessment to further determine appropriate intervention for academic success.
As a previously practicing educational psychologist in an alternative school setting, I often encountered students who moved through the public school systems without the support they needed to learn basic foundational skills. Creating a lack of understanding of how they learn; causing low self-esteem and low academic and social functioning. Additionally, these academic difficulties often bring about behavior challenges in school and in the home setting, as students feel incapable of learning to their full potential. These students often require assessment to further determine appropriate intervention for academic success.
See more therapy options for Sherman Oaks
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.