Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Brooklyn, NY

Photo of Hillary Glick, PhD, Psychologist
Hillary Glick
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11233
If you suffer from depression/ bipolar disorder, trauma history, or bad relationships you know how tough emotional pain is.
Trust and a sense of safety are necessary foundations for successful therapy. Yet they don't come automatically. They have to be built and earned over time. I respect the tremendous courage it takes to face up to deeply buried or avoided thoughts and feelings. I work best with people who take their therapy seriously and are curious about finding new ways of thinking about themselves and others in their lives. I use insight oriented therapies as well as mindfulness to help us stay in the moment. My approach is tailored individually to your needs. Recently I added EMDR and some IFS to my work.
If you suffer from depression/ bipolar disorder, trauma history, or bad relationships you know how tough emotional pain is.
Trust and a sense of safety are necessary foundations for successful therapy. Yet they don't come automatically. They have to be built and earned over time. I respect the tremendous courage it takes to face up to deeply buried or avoided thoughts and feelings. I work best with people who take their therapy seriously and are curious about finding new ways of thinking about themselves and others in their lives. I use insight oriented therapies as well as mindfulness to help us stay in the moment. My approach is tailored individually to your needs. Recently I added EMDR and some IFS to my work.
(646) 386-2213 View (646) 386-2213
Photo of Brannan Mary Piper, BS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brannan Mary Piper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11237
I am an individual psychotherapist who has been practicing for over 30 years. Because of my extensive training I am equipped to treat numerous conditions. My areas of specialization focus on depression, Bipolar, anxiety, self-esteem, and problems originating in childhood. If you are facing any of these challenges then you have found the right therapist. Highly intuitive, gentle, curious and a good listener, I value a stance which is open-minded and non-judgmental. I provide a calming and affirming environment in which you are free to share your issues and problems.
I am an individual psychotherapist who has been practicing for over 30 years. Because of my extensive training I am equipped to treat numerous conditions. My areas of specialization focus on depression, Bipolar, anxiety, self-esteem, and problems originating in childhood. If you are facing any of these challenges then you have found the right therapist. Highly intuitive, gentle, curious and a good listener, I value a stance which is open-minded and non-judgmental. I provide a calming and affirming environment in which you are free to share your issues and problems.
(646) 681-8736 View (646) 681-8736
Photo of Steve R Antoine, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Steve R Antoine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11203  (Online Only)
I have been trained in Structural Family Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT for Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder and CBT for Couples).
I hope to contribute compassion to the recovery of people living productive lives but needing assistance managing mental health needs, interacting with others or navigating the behavioral health system. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over ten years of experience and engagement expertise in working collaboratively with diverse populations, families, groups, and individuals.
I have been trained in Structural Family Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT for Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder and CBT for Couples).
I hope to contribute compassion to the recovery of people living productive lives but needing assistance managing mental health needs, interacting with others or navigating the behavioral health system. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over ten years of experience and engagement expertise in working collaboratively with diverse populations, families, groups, and individuals.
(516) 271-3143 View (516) 271-3143
Photo of Candice Comisi, MS Ed, MHC-LP
Candice Comisi
MS Ed, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11217  (Online Only)
Candice regularly treats people with Complex PTSD, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, and OCD. She especially enjoys working with people who have a history of trauma within their families of origin.
Candice regularly treats people with Complex PTSD, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, and OCD. She especially enjoys working with people who have a history of trauma within their families of origin.
(845) 209-2603 View (845) 209-2603
Photo of Lynne Spevack, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lynne Spevack
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11210  (Online Only)
SEEKING RESULTS? CONSIDER A THERAPIST'S THERAPIST: I'm a seasoned counselor, skilled in scientifically proven, results-oriented methods like Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy. Unlike some CB therapists, my style is responsive, interactive & versatile, combining elements of psychodynamic, family/systems, and other approaches. As a respected senior clinician with 40 years of experience, I’m sought out as a therapist and mentor by other mid-career therapists. I have skill and expertise in couples and family therapy, helping teens and tweens and their families, and persons with Bipolar or Borderline Personality Disorder and their families.
SEEKING RESULTS? CONSIDER A THERAPIST'S THERAPIST: I'm a seasoned counselor, skilled in scientifically proven, results-oriented methods like Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy. Unlike some CB therapists, my style is responsive, interactive & versatile, combining elements of psychodynamic, family/systems, and other approaches. As a respected senior clinician with 40 years of experience, I’m sought out as a therapist and mentor by other mid-career therapists. I have skill and expertise in couples and family therapy, helping teens and tweens and their families, and persons with Bipolar or Borderline Personality Disorder and their families.
(718) 377-3400 View (718) 377-3400
Photo of Devon Leigh Roller, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Devon Leigh Roller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11201  (Online Only)
My experience includes working in substance use treatment, working with those with various mental health diagnosis’ including anxiety, depression, bipolar, personality disorders, and trauma.
My purpose as a therapist is to inspire individuals to discover their own true power by identifying patterns which may be holding them back from who they truly are. I believe my role as a therapist is to guide people toward finding their own inner power and strength, listen to their own inner knowing and find their own healing. Therapeutic modalities I utilize include depth work, internal family systems (parts work/inner child work) and family of origin, positive psychology, self-efficacy and self-empowerment perspective also known as feminist theory. Above all, I utilize a spiritual and holistic approach.
My experience includes working in substance use treatment, working with those with various mental health diagnosis’ including anxiety, depression, bipolar, personality disorders, and trauma.
My purpose as a therapist is to inspire individuals to discover their own true power by identifying patterns which may be holding them back from who they truly are. I believe my role as a therapist is to guide people toward finding their own inner power and strength, listen to their own inner knowing and find their own healing. Therapeutic modalities I utilize include depth work, internal family systems (parts work/inner child work) and family of origin, positive psychology, self-efficacy and self-empowerment perspective also known as feminist theory. Above all, I utilize a spiritual and holistic approach.
(332) 455-1658 View (332) 455-1658
Photo of Ewa Opala, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ewa Opala
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11209  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I support clients facing a range of life stressors and psychological concerns including anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and relationship issues.
I commend you for taking an important step towards better health and well-being. I will provide you with a safe and supportive space while we collaborate to find a path that works specifically for you. You will be able to process your thoughts and feelings, learn to cope with your current challenges more effectively, and discover the necessary tools that will help you achieve your desired outcomes.
I support clients facing a range of life stressors and psychological concerns including anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and relationship issues.
I commend you for taking an important step towards better health and well-being. I will provide you with a safe and supportive space while we collaborate to find a path that works specifically for you. You will be able to process your thoughts and feelings, learn to cope with your current challenges more effectively, and discover the necessary tools that will help you achieve your desired outcomes.
(929) 635-7086 View (929) 635-7086
Photo of Melissa Wergland, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Wergland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11214  (Online Only)
I have also helped clients with more serious mental illness including Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder to be able to live more satisfying lives.
Are you struggling and feeling alone and misunderstood? Are you suffering from excessive worrying, or feeling like you have lost hope that things can get better? Maybe you feel that you are not the person you once were, and you want so much to get that person back. Sometimes we go through a period in our lives where we just need a little guidance to get back on our feet. You have already courageously taken the first step by seeking help and that takes strength! I am honored to be a part of this very important journey, to be your guide and companion in this healing process.
I have also helped clients with more serious mental illness including Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder to be able to live more satisfying lives.
Are you struggling and feeling alone and misunderstood? Are you suffering from excessive worrying, or feeling like you have lost hope that things can get better? Maybe you feel that you are not the person you once were, and you want so much to get that person back. Sometimes we go through a period in our lives where we just need a little guidance to get back on our feet. You have already courageously taken the first step by seeking help and that takes strength! I am honored to be a part of this very important journey, to be your guide and companion in this healing process.
(718) 550-6651 View (718) 550-6651
Photo of Joseph Ramsey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joseph Ramsey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11219  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Joseph Ramsey and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I have 23 years of experience in the field and 16 of those 23 years has been spent providing counseling services to families, individuals, and couples. My approach is collaborative and I firmly believe in honesty and transparency. My focus areas are anxiety, depression, problems related to anxiety and depression (i.e. obsessive compulsive disorder) and trauma. I am most comfortable treating anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorders, bipolar I and II, mood disorders, grief, complex trauma, and anger issues.
Hello, my name is Joseph Ramsey and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I have 23 years of experience in the field and 16 of those 23 years has been spent providing counseling services to families, individuals, and couples. My approach is collaborative and I firmly believe in honesty and transparency. My focus areas are anxiety, depression, problems related to anxiety and depression (i.e. obsessive compulsive disorder) and trauma. I am most comfortable treating anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorders, bipolar I and II, mood disorders, grief, complex trauma, and anger issues.
(646) 718-3080 View (646) 718-3080
Photo of David Freedman, PsyD, Psychologist
David Freedman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11226  (Online Only)
I have experience working with individuals dealing with a variety of challenges, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and personality and interpersonal issues.
Life transitions - from getting married, a new job, having children, or retirement - present us with new and unique challenges that we have to navigate. Oftentimes the challenges presented by these life transitions are informed by our experiences in navigating previous major life transitions. My approach to psychotherapy is to examine not only the current challenges but also any previous obstacles that we have faced in order to determine what interpersonal, internal, and skills-based needs may be getting in the way of successfully navigating the current situation.
I have experience working with individuals dealing with a variety of challenges, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and personality and interpersonal issues.
Life transitions - from getting married, a new job, having children, or retirement - present us with new and unique challenges that we have to navigate. Oftentimes the challenges presented by these life transitions are informed by our experiences in navigating previous major life transitions. My approach to psychotherapy is to examine not only the current challenges but also any previous obstacles that we have faced in order to determine what interpersonal, internal, and skills-based needs may be getting in the way of successfully navigating the current situation.
(718) 682-7984 View (718) 682-7984
Photo of Reuven Cohen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Reuven Cohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11210
Waitlist for new clients
My clients have ranged in age from young children as early as 6 to geriatric individuals in their 80s. The issues I've addressed in my work with this community include anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, various psychotic disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), life transitions, couples counseling, interpersonal and relationship issues, parental management, ADHD/ADD, school performance, and social difficulties.
My clients have ranged in age from young children as early as 6 to geriatric individuals in their 80s. The issues I've addressed in my work with this community include anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, various psychotic disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), life transitions, couples counseling, interpersonal and relationship issues, parental management, ADHD/ADD, school performance, and social difficulties.
(929) 493-4531 View (929) 493-4531
Photo of Alan Vanell, MA,  LMHC, Counselor
Alan Vanell
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11201
He is especially passionate about treating ADHD, bipolar disorder, and somatoform disorders, employing a range of interventions to suit the unique needs of his clients.
Alan Vanell is dedicated to supporting individuals in their journey towards mental wellness, offering his expertise in New York to those seeking relief and understanding. At LifeStance Health, Alan utilizes his extensive skills in case management and therapy to help clients navigate complex emotions and life challenges. He is particularly adept at working with individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, and substance abuse, as well as those struggling with trauma, including immigrationrelated issues.
He is especially passionate about treating ADHD, bipolar disorder, and somatoform disorders, employing a range of interventions to suit the unique needs of his clients.
Alan Vanell is dedicated to supporting individuals in their journey towards mental wellness, offering his expertise in New York to those seeking relief and understanding. At LifeStance Health, Alan utilizes his extensive skills in case management and therapy to help clients navigate complex emotions and life challenges. He is particularly adept at working with individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, and substance abuse, as well as those struggling with trauma, including immigrationrelated issues.
(855) 688-1397 View (855) 688-1397
Photo of Felicia Moholland, CAT-LP, Art Therapist
Felicia Moholland
Art Therapist, CAT-LP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11222  (Online Only)
Her specialties include but are not limited to; autism, anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, personality disorders, sexual trauma, and childhood trauma.
Felicia is a humanistic based art therapist who is passionate about helping clients create a personal sense of identity within themselves and within society as a whole. She strives to use creative expression as a way to connect with oneself, and better understand individual feelings, thoughts, and boundaries. Felicia aims to foster an empathetic and accepting therapeutic environment for clients through the use of trauma informed care, and intersectionality. Her speciality is art and talk therapy, but she will also incorporate music, movement, drama, and poetry therapy when it maybe beneficial for the client.
Her specialties include but are not limited to; autism, anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, personality disorders, sexual trauma, and childhood trauma.
Felicia is a humanistic based art therapist who is passionate about helping clients create a personal sense of identity within themselves and within society as a whole. She strives to use creative expression as a way to connect with oneself, and better understand individual feelings, thoughts, and boundaries. Felicia aims to foster an empathetic and accepting therapeutic environment for clients through the use of trauma informed care, and intersectionality. Her speciality is art and talk therapy, but she will also incorporate music, movement, drama, and poetry therapy when it maybe beneficial for the client.
(718) 841-0928 View (718) 841-0928
Photo of Lyudmila Gonik, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lyudmila Gonik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11230  (Online Only)
Currently, after 15 years of working at the city outpatient mental health clinic I am very excited to open my own private practice providing a high quality of care using telehealth platforms. I have experience helping clients of different age groups and with various mental health issues. My ideal client is someone who suffers from depression/ anxiety/ bipolar disorders, has relationships issues or difficulties to cope with work, school or life transitions stressors. Also, I like to help immigrants adjusting to living in the USA, especially clients from the former Soviet Union. I am fluent in English and Russian languages.
Currently, after 15 years of working at the city outpatient mental health clinic I am very excited to open my own private practice providing a high quality of care using telehealth platforms. I have experience helping clients of different age groups and with various mental health issues. My ideal client is someone who suffers from depression/ anxiety/ bipolar disorders, has relationships issues or difficulties to cope with work, school or life transitions stressors. Also, I like to help immigrants adjusting to living in the USA, especially clients from the former Soviet Union. I am fluent in English and Russian languages.
(718) 736-2721 View (718) 736-2721
Photo of Arthur Kukuyev - New York Psychiatric Services, PC, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
New York Psychiatric Services, PC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11235
Hello everyone! Living in New York City may be a challenge, filled with stress. anxiety and depression. With these challenges you need a helping hand to guide you through. I specialize in Mood Disorders, Bipolar disorders, Anxiety, Depression and PTSD.
Hello everyone! Living in New York City may be a challenge, filled with stress. anxiety and depression. With these challenges you need a helping hand to guide you through. I specialize in Mood Disorders, Bipolar disorders, Anxiety, Depression and PTSD.
(347) 851-1972 View (347) 851-1972
Photo of Bianca I. Morisset, LMHC, Counselor
Bianca I. Morisset
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11226  (Online Only)
She provides individual and group counseling to a range of individuals dealing with but not limited to Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar/Psychotic Disorders, trauma and other behavioral issues.
Bianca Morisset is a board-certified license mental health counselor in the state of New York who holds a dual B.A./M.A. degree in forensic psychology from John Jay college. She has years of clinical experience across a variety of settings such as large nonprofits, outpatient, correctional and private practice working with adults, adolescents and families who suffer from a variety of mental illnesses.Bianca has been a practicing psychotherapist for 10+ years and has supervisory and leadership experience. She currently works at Correctional Facility.
She provides individual and group counseling to a range of individuals dealing with but not limited to Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar/Psychotic Disorders, trauma and other behavioral issues.
Bianca Morisset is a board-certified license mental health counselor in the state of New York who holds a dual B.A./M.A. degree in forensic psychology from John Jay college. She has years of clinical experience across a variety of settings such as large nonprofits, outpatient, correctional and private practice working with adults, adolescents and families who suffer from a variety of mental illnesses.Bianca has been a practicing psychotherapist for 10+ years and has supervisory and leadership experience. She currently works at Correctional Facility.
(347) 727-1622 View (347) 727-1622
Photo of Lanya Snyder, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lanya Snyder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11201
I am experienced in treating individuals and their families affected by substance use disorders from initial assessment and intervention to navigating treatment and providing support in both early and long-term recovery. I am a certified rape crisis counselor and previously worked in Victim Services at Mount Sinai Beth Israel, providing compassionate and comprehensive care to victims of violent crimes including, domestic violence, physical and sexual assault. I am adept at working with those who struggle with Substance Use Disorders, Mood Disorders, Psychotic Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Depression and Anxiety.
I am experienced in treating individuals and their families affected by substance use disorders from initial assessment and intervention to navigating treatment and providing support in both early and long-term recovery. I am a certified rape crisis counselor and previously worked in Victim Services at Mount Sinai Beth Israel, providing compassionate and comprehensive care to victims of violent crimes including, domestic violence, physical and sexual assault. I am adept at working with those who struggle with Substance Use Disorders, Mood Disorders, Psychotic Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Depression and Anxiety.
(718) 550-2291 View (718) 550-2291
Photo of Jennifer Giuglianotti - Balanced Life Movement Creative Arts Therapy PLLC, MS, BC-DMT, LCAT, Art Therapist
Balanced Life Movement Creative Arts Therapy PLLC
Art Therapist, MS, BC-DMT, LCAT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11226
We specialize in Somatic, Art, Dance/Movement Therapy & Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) in the treatment of anxiety, chronic stress, bipolar disorder, and complex trauma.
More than just talk therapy: Are you struggling to find deeper purpose & balance? You may feel disconnected, anxious, lonely & are seeking a sense of meaningful connection while finally healing the root of your pain. Whether you are feeling lost in how to heal unresolved trauma, or need support in transition, we will co-create authentic connection to your true self & develop a plan to reach your goals creatively. Together, our therapists will help you find freedom, feel safe in your body, and strengthen your tools for emotional balance. Treatment options: Creative Arts Therapy, Somatic Therapy, & KAP.
We specialize in Somatic, Art, Dance/Movement Therapy & Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) in the treatment of anxiety, chronic stress, bipolar disorder, and complex trauma.
More than just talk therapy: Are you struggling to find deeper purpose & balance? You may feel disconnected, anxious, lonely & are seeking a sense of meaningful connection while finally healing the root of your pain. Whether you are feeling lost in how to heal unresolved trauma, or need support in transition, we will co-create authentic connection to your true self & develop a plan to reach your goals creatively. Together, our therapists will help you find freedom, feel safe in your body, and strengthen your tools for emotional balance. Treatment options: Creative Arts Therapy, Somatic Therapy, & KAP.
(646) 392-7983 View (646) 392-7983
Photo of Miriam Kagan, LCAT, Art Therapist
Miriam Kagan
Art Therapist, LCAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11237
Other mental health diagnostics that I’ve worked with include PTSD, personality disorders, substance use disorder, OCD, DID, schizophrenia, and bipolar.
Seeking therapy or mental health counseling is a brave and arduous step in your healing journey. My goal is to make it as soothing and comforting as possible through a person-centered and strength-based approach. I am a licensed creative arts therapist, trained in utilizing the visual arts to assist in the therapeutic process with a Master’s degree in Creativity Development and Creative Arts Therapy from Pratt Institute. I am now offering Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, providing healing and support through the process of using ketamine as an enhancement to the therapeutic treatment.
Other mental health diagnostics that I’ve worked with include PTSD, personality disorders, substance use disorder, OCD, DID, schizophrenia, and bipolar.
Seeking therapy or mental health counseling is a brave and arduous step in your healing journey. My goal is to make it as soothing and comforting as possible through a person-centered and strength-based approach. I am a licensed creative arts therapist, trained in utilizing the visual arts to assist in the therapeutic process with a Master’s degree in Creativity Development and Creative Arts Therapy from Pratt Institute. I am now offering Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, providing healing and support through the process of using ketamine as an enhancement to the therapeutic treatment.
(347) 923-6350 View (347) 923-6350
Photo of Linnea Mavrides, PsyD, Psychologist
Linnea Mavrides
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11215
I am a clinical psychologist experienced in working with individuals and couples around a variety of emotional and life challenges, including grief and loss, trauma, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, personality disorders, and substance abuse. I specialize in working with women and couples dealing with challenges around pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum depression/anxiety, and adjustment to parenting. I also see mothers and infants together to address issues in attachment and communication. My orientation is primarily psychodynamic and interpersonal, although I am trained in CBT, DBT, and CPT and do integrate these strategies as needed.
I am a clinical psychologist experienced in working with individuals and couples around a variety of emotional and life challenges, including grief and loss, trauma, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, personality disorders, and substance abuse. I specialize in working with women and couples dealing with challenges around pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum depression/anxiety, and adjustment to parenting. I also see mothers and infants together to address issues in attachment and communication. My orientation is primarily psychodynamic and interpersonal, although I am trained in CBT, DBT, and CPT and do integrate these strategies as needed.
(917) 746-1648 View (917) 746-1648
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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.