Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Brooklyn, NY

Photo of Hillary Glick, Psychologist in Brooklyn, NY
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 Celina Chelala, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Celina Chelala
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11206
I work collaboratively with people experiencing depression, anxiety, bipolar I and II, and those who have experienced childhood sexual/physical/emotional trauma, and neglect.
Trauma can perpetuate loneliness and prevent you from connecting with yourself and others. I help clients work on increasing self-esteem by building self-compassion and self-acceptance. I also use the therapeutic relationship as a way to experience positive connection. This relational work is often a starting point to a sense of well-being and belonging outside of the therapy room. As a facilitator and companion in this process, I will support you on your path towards healing and creating a life that honors and reflects your truest self. Being in a safe, compassionate space can facilitate this process.
I work collaboratively with people experiencing depression, anxiety, bipolar I and II, and those who have experienced childhood sexual/physical/emotional trauma, and neglect.
Trauma can perpetuate loneliness and prevent you from connecting with yourself and others. I help clients work on increasing self-esteem by building self-compassion and self-acceptance. I also use the therapeutic relationship as a way to experience positive connection. This relational work is often a starting point to a sense of well-being and belonging outside of the therapy room. As a facilitator and companion in this process, I will support you on your path towards healing and creating a life that honors and reflects your truest self. Being in a safe, compassionate space can facilitate this process.
(332) 248-0511 View (332) 248-0511
Photo of Brannan Mary Piper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
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, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
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 Piyumi Buddhakorala, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Piyumi Buddhakorala
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11220  (Online Only)
I have over 10 years of experience working with individuals with trauma, substance use, employment concerns, depression, anxiety, psychotic, bipolar and borderline symptoms.
Do you ever ask yourself why you react the way you do to certain situations? Are you feeling overwhelmed with everything that you are feeling? Do you feel like you have tried therapy before and nothing seems to be working? Do you feel hopeless and on the brink of giving up? I would like to tell you that not all hope is lost. If you are looking to find ways to address your concerns, find hope and meaning again, I am here to support you.
I have over 10 years of experience working with individuals with trauma, substance use, employment concerns, depression, anxiety, psychotic, bipolar and borderline symptoms.
Do you ever ask yourself why you react the way you do to certain situations? Are you feeling overwhelmed with everything that you are feeling? Do you feel like you have tried therapy before and nothing seems to be working? Do you feel hopeless and on the brink of giving up? I would like to tell you that not all hope is lost. If you are looking to find ways to address your concerns, find hope and meaning again, I am here to support you.
(646) 542-1112 View (646) 542-1112
Photo of Kaori Kato, Psychologist in Brooklyn, NY
Kaori Kato
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11249
I am a clinical psychologist in Brooklyn, NY. I have been providing psychotherapy, couple’s counseling, and family therapy. I am also a director of Mobile Crisis Service and psychological/neuropsychological testing supervisor at New York Health + Hospitals. I have worked with children and adults with a wide range of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, ADHD, PTSD, addiction, and cognitive difficulties. I specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy and use integrative approach with other holistic and creative modalities.
I am a clinical psychologist in Brooklyn, NY. I have been providing psychotherapy, couple’s counseling, and family therapy. I am also a director of Mobile Crisis Service and psychological/neuropsychological testing supervisor at New York Health + Hospitals. I have worked with children and adults with a wide range of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, ADHD, PTSD, addiction, and cognitive difficulties. I specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy and use integrative approach with other holistic and creative modalities.
(718) 612-7155 View (718) 612-7155
Photo of Linnea Mavrides, Psychologist in Brooklyn, NY
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
Photo of New York Psychiatric Services, PC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
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 Balanced Life Movement Creative Arts Therapy PLLC, Art Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
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 Rachel Rose-Sandow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Rachel Rose-Sandow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11201
Rachel Rose-Sandow is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 8 years of experience specializing in depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. Rachel treats patients between the ages of 5 and 99 using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma-Informed Care. Rachel has extensive experience counseling children (ages 5+), adolescents, adults, seniors, families, and groups in outpatient settings. In her clinical work, Rachel uses a person-centered approach to help each client make positive life changes and reach his/her unique goals.
Rachel Rose-Sandow is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 8 years of experience specializing in depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. Rachel treats patients between the ages of 5 and 99 using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma-Informed Care. Rachel has extensive experience counseling children (ages 5+), adolescents, adults, seniors, families, and groups in outpatient settings. In her clinical work, Rachel uses a person-centered approach to help each client make positive life changes and reach his/her unique goals.
(929) 442-2454 View (929) 442-2454
Photo of Troy Harris, Licensed Master Social Worker in Brooklyn, NY
Troy Harris
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11242
As someone who has bipolar disorder and is recovered from an eating disorder and OCD, I know how exhausting it is to go through every moment knowing something is wrong.
I'm a child and adolescent psychotherapist and adolescent public defense social worker, specializing in OCD, eating disorders, behavioral issues, administering diagnostic assessments and evaluations, and writing diagnostic reports. Prior to becoming a therapist, I was a crisis counselor for six years, and a sexual assault crisis counselor for three. I was also researcher who aided in the development of the most recent DSM-5 Diagnostic Interview Schedule for Children, Adolescent, and Parents - the most widely used diagnostic interview used for children and adolescents.
As someone who has bipolar disorder and is recovered from an eating disorder and OCD, I know how exhausting it is to go through every moment knowing something is wrong.
I'm a child and adolescent psychotherapist and adolescent public defense social worker, specializing in OCD, eating disorders, behavioral issues, administering diagnostic assessments and evaluations, and writing diagnostic reports. Prior to becoming a therapist, I was a crisis counselor for six years, and a sexual assault crisis counselor for three. I was also researcher who aided in the development of the most recent DSM-5 Diagnostic Interview Schedule for Children, Adolescent, and Parents - the most widely used diagnostic interview used for children and adolescents.
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Photo of Daria Diakonova-Curtis, Psychologist in Brooklyn, NY
Daria Diakonova-Curtis
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11242  (Online Only)
I am a licensed psychologist with over 10 years of experience working with adults, specializing in the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, and life transitions. My training has focused on helping people untangle the complex web of their past experiences to understand how they affect current thoughts and emotions. I am deeply committed to helping people overcome emotional challenges, grief reactions, and life stress, in order to lead lives full of hopefulness and meaning. I also work with bilingual and multicultural individuals, addressing concerns of immigration, identity, and relationships.
I am a licensed psychologist with over 10 years of experience working with adults, specializing in the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, and life transitions. My training has focused on helping people untangle the complex web of their past experiences to understand how they affect current thoughts and emotions. I am deeply committed to helping people overcome emotional challenges, grief reactions, and life stress, in order to lead lives full of hopefulness and meaning. I also work with bilingual and multicultural individuals, addressing concerns of immigration, identity, and relationships.
(646) 257-2122 View (646) 257-2122
Photo of Yekaterina (Kate) Kats, Pre-Licensed Professional in Brooklyn, NY
Yekaterina (Kate) Kats
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11221  (Online Only)
With my experience, I've successfully supported clients dealing with various diagnoses, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD.
As a dedicated mental health counselor at Egger NP in Psychiatry PC, I embrace an integrative approach that fosters a safe, nurturing, and empathetic environment for my clients. Together, we embark on a journey to explore the intricacies of emotions. I believe in harnessing your unique strengths to guide you towards a path of clarity and confidence, helping you navigate life's challenges with resilience and purpose. Recognizing the vital role of support in our daily lives, I am committed to providing you with the guidance and encouragement needed to thrive.
With my experience, I've successfully supported clients dealing with various diagnoses, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD.
As a dedicated mental health counselor at Egger NP in Psychiatry PC, I embrace an integrative approach that fosters a safe, nurturing, and empathetic environment for my clients. Together, we embark on a journey to explore the intricacies of emotions. I believe in harnessing your unique strengths to guide you towards a path of clarity and confidence, helping you navigate life's challenges with resilience and purpose. Recognizing the vital role of support in our daily lives, I am committed to providing you with the guidance and encouragement needed to thrive.
(347) 894-5852 View (347) 894-5852
Photo of Peter Gregory Tyson Jr, Licensed Master Social Worker in Brooklyn, NY
Peter Gregory Tyson Jr
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11216  (Online Only)
I've treated clients with diagnosis such as PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Depression and borderline personality disorder.
My ideal client is an individual who is highly motivated to explore themselves and the possibility of a brighter future. Through consistent sessions, I'm sure we'll be able to address the needs that have brought you into therapy. I enjoy working with clients who are willing to lean in, especially when instinct may tell us to lean back. I want to join you on your journey towards enlightenment, self improvement and sustained change.
I've treated clients with diagnosis such as PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Depression and borderline personality disorder.
My ideal client is an individual who is highly motivated to explore themselves and the possibility of a brighter future. Through consistent sessions, I'm sure we'll be able to address the needs that have brought you into therapy. I enjoy working with clients who are willing to lean in, especially when instinct may tell us to lean back. I want to join you on your journey towards enlightenment, self improvement and sustained change.
(347) 941-0735 View (347) 941-0735
Photo of Fort Greene Therapy, Psychologist in Brooklyn, NY
Fort Greene Therapy
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11216  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I also specialize in helping individuals who suffer from depression, anxiety, Bipolar disorder, and other affective disorders.
I know that making the decision to seek a therapist is often a difficult one so I make sure that you have a safe, comforting, and professional place to discuss intimate details of your life with a trained therapist. I don't believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to therapy, rather I see it as collaborative; you and I will work together to help you achieve more peace and happiness in your life.
I also specialize in helping individuals who suffer from depression, anxiety, Bipolar disorder, and other affective disorders.
I know that making the decision to seek a therapist is often a difficult one so I make sure that you have a safe, comforting, and professional place to discuss intimate details of your life with a trained therapist. I don't believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to therapy, rather I see it as collaborative; you and I will work together to help you achieve more peace and happiness in your life.
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Photo of Point Clarity Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Point Clarity Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CFSW, SIFI
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11218
We are a group of Psychotherapists, each one specializing in a different area, to be able to provide expert treatment in specific needed areas. We have specialists trained in modalities such as Forensic, Addictions, Trauma, EMDR, Etc.We provide ongoing assessment, diagnosis, psychotherapy and treatment planning to a socio-culturally diverse adult and adolescent population diagnosed with a full-spectrum of psychiatric disorders including bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, anxiety-related disorders, substance abuse and dependence, PTSD, ADHD, Post-Partum Depression, Trauma related issues, Family and relationship issues etc.
We are a group of Psychotherapists, each one specializing in a different area, to be able to provide expert treatment in specific needed areas. We have specialists trained in modalities such as Forensic, Addictions, Trauma, EMDR, Etc.We provide ongoing assessment, diagnosis, psychotherapy and treatment planning to a socio-culturally diverse adult and adolescent population diagnosed with a full-spectrum of psychiatric disorders including bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, anxiety-related disorders, substance abuse and dependence, PTSD, ADHD, Post-Partum Depression, Trauma related issues, Family and relationship issues etc.
(718) 790-4290 View (718) 790-4290
Photo of Stephanie Freitag, Psychologist in Brooklyn, NY
Stephanie Freitag
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11249
I regularly publish on trauma and bipolar disorder, so these are areas of particular speciality.
Hi, I'm Stephanie. I'm a licensed clinical psychologist in NY, NJ, CT, GA, and FL, and an adjunct professor at the Emory School of Medicine. I strive to provide a warm and safe space where patients can feel comfortable sharing without fear of judgment. My goal is to help my patients reflect on their values so that they can work towards what it means to be their "best self." I will always focus on treating the symptoms and not the "disorder," in an effort to tailor my approach to the individual. I am passionate about fighting stigma associated with mental illness and engage in advocacy and research outside of treating patients.
I regularly publish on trauma and bipolar disorder, so these are areas of particular speciality.
Hi, I'm Stephanie. I'm a licensed clinical psychologist in NY, NJ, CT, GA, and FL, and an adjunct professor at the Emory School of Medicine. I strive to provide a warm and safe space where patients can feel comfortable sharing without fear of judgment. My goal is to help my patients reflect on their values so that they can work towards what it means to be their "best self." I will always focus on treating the symptoms and not the "disorder," in an effort to tailor my approach to the individual. I am passionate about fighting stigma associated with mental illness and engage in advocacy and research outside of treating patients.
(646) 461-4212 View (646) 461-4212
Photo of Peter Honchaurk, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Peter Honchaurk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11218
I have served as clinical supervisor to many therapists. I have a superb track record of helping clients - individuals, families and couples - effect remarkable recovery and resume functioning. Areas in which I excel: schizophrenia, depression (incl suicide- and self-harm-prevention), anxiety, bipolar disorder, relationship difficulties, social phobia, OCD, alcoholism (though I'm no substitute for AA), substance abuse, sex addiction, debt & finance stress, grief, workplace stress, assertiveness, and work with teens-at-risk and their families.
I have served as clinical supervisor to many therapists. I have a superb track record of helping clients - individuals, families and couples - effect remarkable recovery and resume functioning. Areas in which I excel: schizophrenia, depression (incl suicide- and self-harm-prevention), anxiety, bipolar disorder, relationship difficulties, social phobia, OCD, alcoholism (though I'm no substitute for AA), substance abuse, sex addiction, debt & finance stress, grief, workplace stress, assertiveness, and work with teens-at-risk and their families.
(646) 798-2995 View (646) 798-2995
Photo of April Barton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
April Barton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11217
I have significant experience supporting people managing life transitions, generalized anxiety, major depression, bipolar disorder and the impacts of trauma.
Everyone has gone through situations that affect their mental health and wellness. Too often, we internalize this and blame ourselves instead of seeking support and care. As a warm, dynamic and effective therapist I can help you break this cycle and find healing. I believe therapy is a collaborative effort and I work with clients to create a safe and supportive environment that fosters change and healing. I have worked with folks of all ages and walks of life and have a focus on those who are navigating life transitions, including young adults and the queer community.
I have significant experience supporting people managing life transitions, generalized anxiety, major depression, bipolar disorder and the impacts of trauma.
Everyone has gone through situations that affect their mental health and wellness. Too often, we internalize this and blame ourselves instead of seeking support and care. As a warm, dynamic and effective therapist I can help you break this cycle and find healing. I believe therapy is a collaborative effort and I work with clients to create a safe and supportive environment that fosters change and healing. I have worked with folks of all ages and walks of life and have a focus on those who are navigating life transitions, including young adults and the queer community.
(718) 577-5082 View (718) 577-5082
Photo of Jonathan Fell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Jonathan Fell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11229
I specialize in work with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, family conflict and trauma and stress-related disorders.
I am a psychotherapist in private practice who specializes in treatment of individuals, couples and families. Whether your stress is related to work, school, relationships, parenting, or other life transitions, I will work with you to nurture your existing strengths and help you build coping skills that lead to positive life changes.
I specialize in work with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, family conflict and trauma and stress-related disorders.
I am a psychotherapist in private practice who specializes in treatment of individuals, couples and families. Whether your stress is related to work, school, relationships, parenting, or other life transitions, I will work with you to nurture your existing strengths and help you build coping skills that lead to positive life changes.
(929) 395-1437 View (929) 395-1437
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.