Photo of Savannah Babych, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Savannah Babych
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Campbell Hall, NY 10916
If you had a sore throat you'd see a doctor, right? We are taught as a society to take care of our physical health, but our mental health is no different! Are you having difficulty managing a big transition in your life? Are you experiencing feelings of depression or anxiety? Are you grieving a loss? Are you struggling in your relationship? If so, you don't have to handle it alone. My name is Savannah. I'm a mental health professional here to help and work along side you to find your way back to healthy functioning.
If you had a sore throat you'd see a doctor, right? We are taught as a society to take care of our physical health, but our mental health is no different! Are you having difficulty managing a big transition in your life? Are you experiencing feelings of depression or anxiety? Are you grieving a loss? Are you struggling in your relationship? If so, you don't have to handle it alone. My name is Savannah. I'm a mental health professional here to help and work along side you to find your way back to healthy functioning.
(845) 516-6426 View (845) 516-6426

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Amy-Jo Hilts, LCSW, LICSW, CAMS-II, , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy-Jo Hilts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, CAMS-II
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Middletown, NY 10940  (Online Only)
In a supportive non judgmental down-to-earth atmosphere I believe in complete transparency to fully engage each client to ensure a person centered approach to treatment and goal setting. I work with individuals and families through a HIPPA secure online portal directly through my easily accessible website. I specialize in women's issues, parenting issues, depression, anxiety, emotional distress, trauma, coping and problem solving skills, anger management, and people struggling with their day-to-day emotions and stressful situations that impact well being and decision making. Religious and Spirituality Diverse, LGBTQIA+ ally
In a supportive non judgmental down-to-earth atmosphere I believe in complete transparency to fully engage each client to ensure a person centered approach to treatment and goal setting. I work with individuals and families through a HIPPA secure online portal directly through my easily accessible website. I specialize in women's issues, parenting issues, depression, anxiety, emotional distress, trauma, coping and problem solving skills, anger management, and people struggling with their day-to-day emotions and stressful situations that impact well being and decision making. Religious and Spirituality Diverse, LGBTQIA+ ally
(646) 683-9335 View (646) 683-9335
Photo of Susan M Isaacson, MA, CCC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan M Isaacson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, CCC, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Florida, NY 10921
I am passionate about helping others achieve goals, work through and problem solve as well as address significant mental health issues and obstacles that intrude, create havoc and prevent individuals from living happy and healthy. As well as a licensed clinical social worker, I also have a masters degree in communication disorders....I'll help you find how and what to say when words and the ability to express feelings are at a loss. Life is not a dress rehearsal....we only go around once!!
I am passionate about helping others achieve goals, work through and problem solve as well as address significant mental health issues and obstacles that intrude, create havoc and prevent individuals from living happy and healthy. As well as a licensed clinical social worker, I also have a masters degree in communication disorders....I'll help you find how and what to say when words and the ability to express feelings are at a loss. Life is not a dress rehearsal....we only go around once!!
(845) 763-4099 View (845) 763-4099
Photo of Afifa Barone, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Afifa Barone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Maybrook, NY 12543  (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Afifa, and I am an LCSW in NY and a LICSW in MA. I specialize in helping individuals, couples, and families through life's challenges. I have a passion for helping people feel empowered to make changes in their lives, and I am dedicated to providing evidence-based treatment tailored to each individual. My client-centered approach focuses on the present with an eye toward the future. If you are looking for someone to help guide you through your journey, please feel free to reach out. I look forward to hearing from you and helping you on your path toward true healing. Thank you.
Hi, my name is Afifa, and I am an LCSW in NY and a LICSW in MA. I specialize in helping individuals, couples, and families through life's challenges. I have a passion for helping people feel empowered to make changes in their lives, and I am dedicated to providing evidence-based treatment tailored to each individual. My client-centered approach focuses on the present with an eye toward the future. If you are looking for someone to help guide you through your journey, please feel free to reach out. I look forward to hearing from you and helping you on your path toward true healing. Thank you.
(347) 842-4190 View (347) 842-4190
Photo of Gabrielle Fassman, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gabrielle Fassman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Monroe, NY 10950
My hope is to create a safe, nonjudgmental space to offer you the opportunity for self-growth, self-reflection, and develop ultimate balance within yourself. My practice is psychodynamically informed and inspired by a belief that properly guided therapeutic work can provide a sense of freedom when we are motivated and willing to make brave changes. My priority is to build a strong therapeutic connection in order to inspire and support your growth. I specialize in adolescents and adults struggling with mood disorders, substance abuse/misuse disorders, eating disorders, gender identity and sexuality issues, and survivors of trauma.
My hope is to create a safe, nonjudgmental space to offer you the opportunity for self-growth, self-reflection, and develop ultimate balance within yourself. My practice is psychodynamically informed and inspired by a belief that properly guided therapeutic work can provide a sense of freedom when we are motivated and willing to make brave changes. My priority is to build a strong therapeutic connection in order to inspire and support your growth. I specialize in adolescents and adults struggling with mood disorders, substance abuse/misuse disorders, eating disorders, gender identity and sexuality issues, and survivors of trauma.
(845) 209-0954 View (845) 209-0954
Photo of Barry Shrem - Hudson Valley Center for Development, PhD, Psychologist
Hudson Valley Center for Development
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New Windsor, NY 12553
The Hudson Valley Center for Development is a Mt. Sinai associated mental health services practice created in 2007 to meet the emotional needs of adults, children, adolescents, and families in Orange County and the lower Hudson Valley. Our warm and experienced staff provide in person psychotherapy and tele-therapy.
The Hudson Valley Center for Development is a Mt. Sinai associated mental health services practice created in 2007 to meet the emotional needs of adults, children, adolescents, and families in Orange County and the lower Hudson Valley. Our warm and experienced staff provide in person psychotherapy and tele-therapy.
(845) 295-1438 View (845) 295-1438
Photo of Mary E Pacos LCSW-R - Prism Psychotherapy LCSW, P.C., LCSWR, CYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Prism Psychotherapy LCSW, P.C.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWR, CYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middletown, NY 10940
I am a skilled and experienced psychotherapist and certified yoga teacher offering an eclectic, individualized and holistic approach to clients. I provide ongoing or short term support, guidance and skills to those having difficulty coping with life transitions, dysfunctional patterns of thinking or behaviors and traumatic events. I treat adults, children and families who are open and willing to participate in self-discovery and find deeper connection to their truest self. I believe the frenzied pace of our frenetic lifestyle often prevents us from connecting with our own wisdom. I take great joy in helping others envision and manifest their potential.
I am a skilled and experienced psychotherapist and certified yoga teacher offering an eclectic, individualized and holistic approach to clients. I provide ongoing or short term support, guidance and skills to those having difficulty coping with life transitions, dysfunctional patterns of thinking or behaviors and traumatic events. I treat adults, children and families who are open and willing to participate in self-discovery and find deeper connection to their truest self. I believe the frenzied pace of our frenetic lifestyle often prevents us from connecting with our own wisdom. I take great joy in helping others envision and manifest their potential.
(845) 762-3127 View (845) 762-3127
Photo of Lisa M Moranz, LCSW, MS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa M Moranz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MS
Verified Verified
Goshen, NY 10924
It is an honor and a privilege to partner with individuals struggling with a wide range of challenges in everyday life. The work I do with those individuals helps to bring forth the beauty, strength and power within each one of us. This shift allows an individual to overcome issues and begin to thrive. I am passionate about this work and hope that passion enhances the quality of the relationships built with everyone I serve.
It is an honor and a privilege to partner with individuals struggling with a wide range of challenges in everyday life. The work I do with those individuals helps to bring forth the beauty, strength and power within each one of us. This shift allows an individual to overcome issues and begin to thrive. I am passionate about this work and hope that passion enhances the quality of the relationships built with everyone I serve.
(845) 723-3577 View (845) 723-3577
Photo of Breeanna Riley, LMSW
Breeanna Riley
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Middletown, NY 10940
Are you aiming to improve your relationships with the goal of creating a greater sense of community support? Are you self-motivated and interested in processing your life experiences to find patterns and make meaning of your emotional experiences? A typical client will be aligned with the belief in the importance of community and community care. I work with clients who are ready to do "the work." The expectation is that clients show up regularly and on time for sessions.
Are you aiming to improve your relationships with the goal of creating a greater sense of community support? Are you self-motivated and interested in processing your life experiences to find patterns and make meaning of your emotional experiences? A typical client will be aligned with the belief in the importance of community and community care. I work with clients who are ready to do "the work." The expectation is that clients show up regularly and on time for sessions.
(845) 456-6346 View (845) 456-6346
Photo of Kelly Bassett Buono, LP, MEd, NCPsyA, Licensed Psychoanalyst
Kelly Bassett Buono
Licensed Psychoanalyst, LP, MEd, NCPsyA
Verified Verified
Goshen, NY 10924
There are difficult experiences in life that inspire or require us to seek outside help and support. Whether an acute crisis, a long-term struggle, or a desire to develop and grow personally, I help patients create change and begin to feel better. I do this in part by helping people recognize and embrace their strengths, sharpen their coping skills for the inevitable challenges in life, and identify and reframe self-defeating thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
There are difficult experiences in life that inspire or require us to seek outside help and support. Whether an acute crisis, a long-term struggle, or a desire to develop and grow personally, I help patients create change and begin to feel better. I do this in part by helping people recognize and embrace their strengths, sharpen their coping skills for the inevitable challenges in life, and identify and reframe self-defeating thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
(347) 754-3591 View (347) 754-3591

Online Therapists

Photo of Wyatt Okeefe, MA, LMHC, LPC, LPCC, Counselor
Wyatt Okeefe
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC, LPCC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011  (Online Only)
I support social/physical transitioning and have experience with depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar disorder, and more.
Accepting new clients as of 8/7/24. 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.
Accepting new clients as of 8/7/24. 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.
(646) 663-5658 View (646) 663-5658
Photo of Elizabeth Walker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Walker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10026
Hi. How are you today? My name is Beth Walker. I am a licensed clinical social worker. I see counseling as a collaboration where I walk beside you on your healing journey, and I really appreciate client input, especially if I am missing the mark. My areas of practice include; depression, anxiety, OCD, emotion regulation, trauma, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, addictions, and dissociation. Treatment interventions I am trained in include; Trauma Informed Care, CBT, DBT, Emotion Focused Couple therapy, EMDR, CPT, Ego State therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Schema therapy.
Hi. How are you today? My name is Beth Walker. I am a licensed clinical social worker. I see counseling as a collaboration where I walk beside you on your healing journey, and I really appreciate client input, especially if I am missing the mark. My areas of practice include; depression, anxiety, OCD, emotion regulation, trauma, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, addictions, and dissociation. Treatment interventions I am trained in include; Trauma Informed Care, CBT, DBT, Emotion Focused Couple therapy, EMDR, CPT, Ego State therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Schema therapy.
(332) 378-1757 View (332) 378-1757
Photo of Paul Fitzgerald, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paul Fitzgerald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I regularly treat depression, anxiety, PTSD/CPTSD, phobias, OCD, hoarding disorder, bipolar disorder, sexual issues (queer/kink/SW-allied), and ADHD.
Choosing a new therapist can be intimidating, whether it’s your first time or you’ve been in therapy forever. I respect this and try to make the process of starting therapy one that feels as comfortable as possible from our first session. I believe the most important part of being human is our ability to empathize with others, and therapy should be a space where we can tell our story and truly feel heard, understood, and validated.
I regularly treat depression, anxiety, PTSD/CPTSD, phobias, OCD, hoarding disorder, bipolar disorder, sexual issues (queer/kink/SW-allied), and ADHD.
Choosing a new therapist can be intimidating, whether it’s your first time or you’ve been in therapy forever. I respect this and try to make the process of starting therapy one that feels as comfortable as possible from our first session. I believe the most important part of being human is our ability to empathize with others, and therapy should be a space where we can tell our story and truly feel heard, understood, and validated.
(347) 429-8716 View (347) 429-8716
Photo of Lina Mendez - Footprints to Feel Better, LMHC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Footprints to Feel Better
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bronx, NY 10459
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, borderline, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Rize-Up Together was started by three women of The Bronx who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities where confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Rize-Up Together began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, borderline, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Rize-Up Together was started by three women of The Bronx who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities where confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Rize-Up Together began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
(718) 550-8535 View (718) 550-8535
Photo of Ashmee Fernandez - Footprints Mental Health Counseling, Pre-Licensed Professional
Footprints Mental Health Counseling
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Bronx, NY 10475
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, BPD, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities where confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Feel Better Therapy began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, BPD, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities where confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Feel Better Therapy began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
(646) 204-2295 View (646) 204-2295
Photo of Elizabeth Walker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Walker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jamaica, NY 11432
Hi. How are you today? My name is Beth Walker. I am a licensed clinical social worker. I see counseling as a collaboration where I walk beside you on your healing journey, and I really appreciate client input, especially if I am missing the mark. My areas of practice include; depression, anxiety, OCD, emotion regulation, trauma, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, addictions, and dissociation. Treatment interventions I am trained in include; Trauma Informed Care, CBT, DBT, Emotion Focused Couple therapy, EMDR, CPT, Ego State therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Schema therapy.
Hi. How are you today? My name is Beth Walker. I am a licensed clinical social worker. I see counseling as a collaboration where I walk beside you on your healing journey, and I really appreciate client input, especially if I am missing the mark. My areas of practice include; depression, anxiety, OCD, emotion regulation, trauma, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, addictions, and dissociation. Treatment interventions I am trained in include; Trauma Informed Care, CBT, DBT, Emotion Focused Couple therapy, EMDR, CPT, Ego State therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Schema therapy.
(646) 466-6512 View (646) 466-6512
Photo of Dahlia Francois-Dumitru Psychotherapist, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dahlia Francois-Dumitru Psychotherapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wantagh, NY 11793  (Online Only)
I have been working with patients with depression, anxiety, bipolar, Psychosis and ADHD for the past 9 years in a major NYC hospital.
Our mental health is just as important as our medical and nutritional health. There is hope even when you think that there is none. Let's talk about your feelings, concerns, fears and hopes. I want to be able to help you with your mental health journey today. I have done this for a long time, working in behavioral health, assisting patients to help them to manage their anxiety, depression, ADHD and mood disorders. I woud love to connect with you to help you with your journey towards healing.
I have been working with patients with depression, anxiety, bipolar, Psychosis and ADHD for the past 9 years in a major NYC hospital.
Our mental health is just as important as our medical and nutritional health. There is hope even when you think that there is none. Let's talk about your feelings, concerns, fears and hopes. I want to be able to help you with your mental health journey today. I have done this for a long time, working in behavioral health, assisting patients to help them to manage their anxiety, depression, ADHD and mood disorders. I woud love to connect with you to help you with your journey towards healing.
(631) 380-4608 View (631) 380-4608
Photo of Tyisha Gaskin - Footprints to Feel Better, Pre-Licensed Professional
Footprints to Feel Better
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10027
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, BPD, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Feel Better Therapy began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, BPD, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Feel Better Therapy began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
(646) 204-2295 View (646) 204-2295
Photo of Christine Pacheco, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine Pacheco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10036  (Online Only)
I have experience supporting clients of various backgrounds struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression and, bipolar 2 disorder.
Fighting life’s many challenges can feel like a never ending battle, especially when feelings of hopelessness and frustration take over. Perhaps you’re feeling stuck, or misunderstood or maybe you just want someone to talk to who listens and understands. You’re probably sick and tired of having to be “strong” all the time, and it’s left you feeling drained. You deserve to be heard—to be validated—to be seen.
I have experience supporting clients of various backgrounds struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression and, bipolar 2 disorder.
Fighting life’s many challenges can feel like a never ending battle, especially when feelings of hopelessness and frustration take over. Perhaps you’re feeling stuck, or misunderstood or maybe you just want someone to talk to who listens and understands. You’re probably sick and tired of having to be “strong” all the time, and it’s left you feeling drained. You deserve to be heard—to be validated—to be seen.
View
Photo of Jennifer Stewart, PhD, Psychologist
Jennifer Stewart
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10023  (Online Only)
Asking for help is a sign of strength, and you do not need to undertake the healing journey alone. You deserve to live a fulfilling life and I am here to help you build it. I approach psychotherapy with the belief that increased insight, effective coping skills, and a strong therapeutic relationship are cornerstones to facilitating positive behavioral change. I have experience working with teenagers and adults with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, phobias, and bipolar disorder. I help manage maladaptive thinking, challenging feelings, and behavioral patterns that interfere with your quality of life.
Asking for help is a sign of strength, and you do not need to undertake the healing journey alone. You deserve to live a fulfilling life and I am here to help you build it. I approach psychotherapy with the belief that increased insight, effective coping skills, and a strong therapeutic relationship are cornerstones to facilitating positive behavioral change. I have experience working with teenagers and adults with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, phobias, and bipolar disorder. I help manage maladaptive thinking, challenging feelings, and behavioral patterns that interfere with your quality of life.
(347) 470-5079 View (347) 470-5079

See more therapy options for Campbell Hall

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.