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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Comprehensive Counseling LCSW, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plainview, NY
Comprehensive Counseling LCSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Roslyn, NY 11576
About Comprehensive Counseling LCSWs: Whether you're struggling with a particular issue or just can't shake the feeling that there should be more to life, we can help by providing you with the insight and tools you need to move beyond current obstacles. Comprehensive Counseling LCSWs is an affiliate company of LearnWell. We are a community based mental health practice where a diverse group of New York State licensed mental health professionals draw from a variety of therapeutic techniques to assist clients in achieving their treatment goals. Accessibility, service and professionalism are the key elements of our success.
About Comprehensive Counseling LCSWs: Whether you're struggling with a particular issue or just can't shake the feeling that there should be more to life, we can help by providing you with the insight and tools you need to move beyond current obstacles. Comprehensive Counseling LCSWs is an affiliate company of LearnWell. We are a community based mental health practice where a diverse group of New York State licensed mental health professionals draw from a variety of therapeutic techniques to assist clients in achieving their treatment goals. Accessibility, service and professionalism are the key elements of our success.
(516) 279-2801 View (516) 279-2801

Online Therapists

Photo of Barbara Louise Blum, Psychologist in Plainview, NY
Barbara Louise Blum
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10024
I have been in full-time practice of comprehensive psychotherapy since 1981 and have, over the years, integrated theories and techniques from numerous approaches in order to individualize treatment. I listen to my client with my ears, soul, and training. I am interactive and believe in treating the whole person: mind, body, and spirit. I believe that therapy is a journey that the therapist takes with the patient. I work with individuals, couples, and families.
I have been in full-time practice of comprehensive psychotherapy since 1981 and have, over the years, integrated theories and techniques from numerous approaches in order to individualize treatment. I listen to my client with my ears, soul, and training. I am interactive and believe in treating the whole person: mind, body, and spirit. I believe that therapy is a journey that the therapist takes with the patient. I work with individuals, couples, and families.
(646) 921-3159 View (646) 921-3159
Photo of Jaime Grunfeld, Counselor in Plainview, NY
Jaime Grunfeld
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10006  (Online Only)
Do you sometimes wish life could be easier? At some point in life we may feel overwhelmed by work pressure, family conflicts, relationships, financial difficulties, or any other modern life challenges. Even without a serious trigger we can sometimes feel simply exhausted. We obsessively think about the same topic, and we have difficulties falling or staying asleep. After a while we start to feel incompetent, ashamed, doubting ourselves, and totally unmotivated.
Do you sometimes wish life could be easier? At some point in life we may feel overwhelmed by work pressure, family conflicts, relationships, financial difficulties, or any other modern life challenges. Even without a serious trigger we can sometimes feel simply exhausted. We obsessively think about the same topic, and we have difficulties falling or staying asleep. After a while we start to feel incompetent, ashamed, doubting ourselves, and totally unmotivated.
(929) 305-0771 View (929) 305-0771
Photo of Leah Grunwald, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plainview, NY
Leah Grunwald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCFP, SIFI, FORENSI
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001
I have trained and specialize in several modalities such as EMDR, Forensic, DBT, CBT, Family Therapy, Addictions etc. I 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.
I have trained and specialize in several modalities such as EMDR, Forensic, DBT, CBT, Family Therapy, Addictions etc. I 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.
(347) 321-9011 View (347) 321-9011
Photo of Chaim Biberfeld LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plainview, NY
Chaim Biberfeld LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11218
Specialties include: Generalized Anxiety disorder, Depression, OCD (Including Scrupulosity), ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Relationship Issues (including abandonment and feelings of loss and rejection) and its attendant heartbreak, and life Coping Skills.
My practice consists largely of adolescents and young adults. My greatest assets are - an ability to connect with people in an accepting, non-judgmental and empathic way. Many young people today seek guidance and a better understanding of who they are and what they are feeling, their instinctive reactions and how to better understand themselves and gain from this crucial insight. Helping them through this life-changing learning process is my forte.
Specialties include: Generalized Anxiety disorder, Depression, OCD (Including Scrupulosity), ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Relationship Issues (including abandonment and feelings of loss and rejection) and its attendant heartbreak, and life Coping Skills.
My practice consists largely of adolescents and young adults. My greatest assets are - an ability to connect with people in an accepting, non-judgmental and empathic way. Many young people today seek guidance and a better understanding of who they are and what they are feeling, their instinctive reactions and how to better understand themselves and gain from this crucial insight. Helping them through this life-changing learning process is my forte.
(646) 846-2842 View (646) 846-2842
Photo of Helen Schwartz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plainview, NY
Helen Schwartz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD, R
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11220
Patients that I meet with will receive a full range of psychotherapy services. I provide parenting counseling, relationship counseling, cognitive therapy, group therapy, psychoanalysis, and anger management. Psychotherapy is available for issues including anxiety, depression, substance abuse as well as eating disorders, couples therapy, individual and family therapy. HIV pre and post counseling, postpartum depression, court mandated treatment, phobias/panic attack, autism, Asperger, ADHD/ ADD, and OCD are a few of the presenting issues I specialize in with over 40 years of experience.
Patients that I meet with will receive a full range of psychotherapy services. I provide parenting counseling, relationship counseling, cognitive therapy, group therapy, psychoanalysis, and anger management. Psychotherapy is available for issues including anxiety, depression, substance abuse as well as eating disorders, couples therapy, individual and family therapy. HIV pre and post counseling, postpartum depression, court mandated treatment, phobias/panic attack, autism, Asperger, ADHD/ ADD, and OCD are a few of the presenting issues I specialize in with over 40 years of experience.
(347) 493-2661 View (347) 493-2661
Photo of Rinat Lustig, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plainview, NY
Rinat Lustig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11219
If you seek to maximize your potential, feel more confident and make choices that you are not sure about, I will help you learn how to listen to yourself and connect to what you already know but maybe not yet aware of. If some of your relationships don't seem to work out, and it is not clear to you - why - we'll try to find out what gets on your way and prevents you from being truly connected to the people you want to be connected to.
If you seek to maximize your potential, feel more confident and make choices that you are not sure about, I will help you learn how to listen to yourself and connect to what you already know but maybe not yet aware of. If some of your relationships don't seem to work out, and it is not clear to you - why - we'll try to find out what gets on your way and prevents you from being truly connected to the people you want to be connected to.
(561) 559-9736 View (561) 559-9736
Photo of Lana M Ackaway, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plainview, NY
Lana M Ackaway
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, NCPsyA, CASAC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016  (Online Only)
I help others manage and resolve difficulties of the heart - love, loss, and work during significant life changes/transitions; e.g., career/job change, death/illness in family, divorce, addiction/recovery, etc. I provide high-quality professional assessment and counseling/psychotherapy to people who have not accessed or have had prior unsatisfactory experiences with psychotherapy. I also do "second opinions" for anyone experiencing therapy stalemate and/or major change. During change, the terrain is stormy, bumpy, skiddy and deep. Many feel angry--a disguise to the depth of fear(s). Anxiety ensues and one doubts whether the "new" is possible.
I help others manage and resolve difficulties of the heart - love, loss, and work during significant life changes/transitions; e.g., career/job change, death/illness in family, divorce, addiction/recovery, etc. I provide high-quality professional assessment and counseling/psychotherapy to people who have not accessed or have had prior unsatisfactory experiences with psychotherapy. I also do "second opinions" for anyone experiencing therapy stalemate and/or major change. During change, the terrain is stormy, bumpy, skiddy and deep. Many feel angry--a disguise to the depth of fear(s). Anxiety ensues and one doubts whether the "new" is possible.
(917) 791-3249 View (917) 791-3249
Photo of Online Virtual Counselors, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plainview, NY
Online Virtual Counselors
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10023  (Online Only)
Our therapist treat many disorders, including but not limited to: Addiction, ADHD, Alcohol use disorder, Gambling addictions, Porn/Internet Addiction, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Codependency, Communication issues, Couples counseling, Depression, Divorce & separation, Family issues.
Hello! We are Online Virtual Counselors, a group practice whose providers have over a combined 150 years of experience. We offer online therapy and psychological support in English and Spanish to clients living in New York, New Jersey, Virginia, DC, Connecticut, Florida, Massachusetts and Maryland. We specialize in working with all childhood disorders, individuals and couples for anxiety, trauma. relationship counseling, addictions, and infidelity. We are committed to providing supportive and highly individualized care for their clients, and helping them navigate times of transition and change within their relationships.
Our therapist treat many disorders, including but not limited to: Addiction, ADHD, Alcohol use disorder, Gambling addictions, Porn/Internet Addiction, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Codependency, Communication issues, Couples counseling, Depression, Divorce & separation, Family issues.
Hello! We are Online Virtual Counselors, a group practice whose providers have over a combined 150 years of experience. We offer online therapy and psychological support in English and Spanish to clients living in New York, New Jersey, Virginia, DC, Connecticut, Florida, Massachusetts and Maryland. We specialize in working with all childhood disorders, individuals and couples for anxiety, trauma. relationship counseling, addictions, and infidelity. We are committed to providing supportive and highly individualized care for their clients, and helping them navigate times of transition and change within their relationships.
(201) 809-3313 View (201) 809-3313
Photo of Comprehensive Counseling LCSW, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plainview, NY
Comprehensive Counseling LCSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Yonkers, NY 10710
About Comprehensive Counseling LCSWs: Whether you're struggling with a particular issue or just can't shake the feeling that there should be more to life, we can help by providing you with the insight and tools you need to move beyond current obstacles. Comprehensive Counseling LCSWs is an affiliate company of LearnWell. We are a community based mental health practice where a diverse group of New York State licensed mental health professionals draw from a variety of therapeutic techniques to assist clients in achieving their treatment goals. Accessibility, service and professionalism are the key elements of our success.
About Comprehensive Counseling LCSWs: Whether you're struggling with a particular issue or just can't shake the feeling that there should be more to life, we can help by providing you with the insight and tools you need to move beyond current obstacles. Comprehensive Counseling LCSWs is an affiliate company of LearnWell. We are a community based mental health practice where a diverse group of New York State licensed mental health professionals draw from a variety of therapeutic techniques to assist clients in achieving their treatment goals. Accessibility, service and professionalism are the key elements of our success.
(914) 758-1954 View (914) 758-1954
Photo of Josh Bochner, Psychologist in Plainview, NY
Josh Bochner
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10017
For many, being in emotional pain, suffering from depression and anxiety, or struggling with relationship difficulties has become a "norm" – "a way-of-life." Life can be complicated and even difficult at times, but emotional pain does not have to be part of it. Whether you are experiencing relationship difficulties, feeling sad or depressed, anxious, or lonely, psychotherapy is an important and effective way to finding happiness, self-acceptance, and to experience a general better quality of life.
For many, being in emotional pain, suffering from depression and anxiety, or struggling with relationship difficulties has become a "norm" – "a way-of-life." Life can be complicated and even difficult at times, but emotional pain does not have to be part of it. Whether you are experiencing relationship difficulties, feeling sad or depressed, anxious, or lonely, psychotherapy is an important and effective way to finding happiness, self-acceptance, and to experience a general better quality of life.
(929) 284-2927 View (929) 284-2927
Photo of Chaya Rubin, Psychologist in Plainview, NY
Chaya Rubin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011
Many people choose to begin therapy because they want to feel better, be more successful at work, or have better relationships. Psychotherapy can be helpful in addressing the emotional or sometimes even physical pain that can get in the way of such goals. The kind of psychotherapy that I practice involves careful listening and exploration of one's difficulties and how those difficulties tend to repeat or consistently present in a variety of contexts. I work with clients that appreciate that lasting change is indeed possible, and have the courage to forgo the false promise of a "quick fix".
Many people choose to begin therapy because they want to feel better, be more successful at work, or have better relationships. Psychotherapy can be helpful in addressing the emotional or sometimes even physical pain that can get in the way of such goals. The kind of psychotherapy that I practice involves careful listening and exploration of one's difficulties and how those difficulties tend to repeat or consistently present in a variety of contexts. I work with clients that appreciate that lasting change is indeed possible, and have the courage to forgo the false promise of a "quick fix".
(917) 765-6301 View (917) 765-6301
Photo of Blima M Weinbaum, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plainview, NY
Blima M Weinbaum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11218
I have trained and specialize in several modalities such as CBT, Family Therapy, Group Therapy in addition to treatment for substance and alcohol use disorders and process addictions. I 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, Trauma related issues and Family and relationship issues amongst others.
I have trained and specialize in several modalities such as CBT, Family Therapy, Group Therapy in addition to treatment for substance and alcohol use disorders and process addictions. I 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, Trauma related issues and Family and relationship issues amongst others.
(646) 455-3315 View (646) 455-3315
Photo of Alyssa R Parker in Plainview, NY
Alyssa R Parker
MHC, L-P, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cornwall on Hudson, NY 12520  (Online Only)
Often, unresolved issues from the past create obstacles that interfere with our present-day experiences. My goal is to empower you to overcome these obstacles and make changes to become the best version of yourself. We will work collaboratively to improve your quality of life and address mental health challenges that have been causing you distress. I promote an empathetic, non-judgmental, nurturing environment where clients can talk freely and gain insight.
Often, unresolved issues from the past create obstacles that interfere with our present-day experiences. My goal is to empower you to overcome these obstacles and make changes to become the best version of yourself. We will work collaboratively to improve your quality of life and address mental health challenges that have been causing you distress. I promote an empathetic, non-judgmental, nurturing environment where clients can talk freely and gain insight.
(845) 448-0950 View (845) 448-0950
Photo of Dr. Cynthia Giocomarra, Marriage & Family Therapist in Plainview, NY
Dr. Cynthia Giocomarra
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10013
Are you looking for a therapist that actually "gets it"? Do you feel anxiety first thing in the morning, randomly throughout the day, or just before bed? Do you experience fear or panic reconnecting with friends, family, and coworkers since the world changed in 2020? Are you in the process of (or thinking about) coming out and feel unsure of how to go forward? Are you wanting to restructure your life in a more meaningful way but not sure what your new life can look like? I can assist you. My clientele includes diverse religious and cultural backgrounds, LGBTQA, individuals, couples, and families. Let’s talk.
Are you looking for a therapist that actually "gets it"? Do you feel anxiety first thing in the morning, randomly throughout the day, or just before bed? Do you experience fear or panic reconnecting with friends, family, and coworkers since the world changed in 2020? Are you in the process of (or thinking about) coming out and feel unsure of how to go forward? Are you wanting to restructure your life in a more meaningful way but not sure what your new life can look like? I can assist you. My clientele includes diverse religious and cultural backgrounds, LGBTQA, individuals, couples, and families. Let’s talk.
(347) 921-9639 View (347) 921-9639
Photo of Brad Salzman - Sex Addiction Expert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plainview, NY
Brad Salzman - Sex Addiction Expert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, CSAT, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
I treat sexual addicts around the world via Zoom. In addition, I offer fully customized intensive therapy programs remotely and face to face. Are you addicted to sex, pornography, or relationships? Do you have problems with compulsive sexual behaviors that you just can't quit? Sex addiction and compulsive sexual behavior can ruin your life -- your family, your relationships, your career, your health. If you are serious about getting help and you want expert psychotherapy with an experienced therapist, then give me a call. I have helped many people struggling with sex addiction to turn their lives around. Free phone consultation.
I treat sexual addicts around the world via Zoom. In addition, I offer fully customized intensive therapy programs remotely and face to face. Are you addicted to sex, pornography, or relationships? Do you have problems with compulsive sexual behaviors that you just can't quit? Sex addiction and compulsive sexual behavior can ruin your life -- your family, your relationships, your career, your health. If you are serious about getting help and you want expert psychotherapy with an experienced therapist, then give me a call. I have helped many people struggling with sex addiction to turn their lives around. Free phone consultation.
(917) 791-1255 View (917) 791-1255
Photo of Avrahom Y Rosenberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plainview, NY
Avrahom Y Rosenberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11230
I am a psychotherapist specializing in anxiety, anger management, ADHD, depression, marital issues, political anxiety, covid anxiety, and adjustment issues in teens, young adults and married couples. My experience also includes working with various DSM-V disorders in addition to managing school based issues. Many of my clients encounter frustration when their concerns impact their daily lives, and I take the time to listen closely to their needs, and empower them to successfully navigate their challenges.
I am a psychotherapist specializing in anxiety, anger management, ADHD, depression, marital issues, political anxiety, covid anxiety, and adjustment issues in teens, young adults and married couples. My experience also includes working with various DSM-V disorders in addition to managing school based issues. Many of my clients encounter frustration when their concerns impact their daily lives, and I take the time to listen closely to their needs, and empower them to successfully navigate their challenges.
(973) 221-9564 View (973) 221-9564
Photo of Touchstone SVC Private Practitioners Group, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plainview, NY
Touchstone SVC Private Practitioners Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MAFP, SIFI
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001
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.
(929) 552-4542 View (929) 552-4542
Photo of Jacob (Menachem) Lichtman, Counselor in Plainview, NY
Jacob (Menachem) Lichtman
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11205
Do you sometimes feel misunderstood by others? Are you craving close and peaceful relationships with others but find them challenging? Is internal sadness and emptiness a familiar feeling for you? If you're struggling with these feelings, I might be able to help. I work to help individuals who struggle with inner conflict and interpersonal challenges, find love, peace and joy. My approach is kind, empathic and straightforward. I provide a safe space where you can openly be you and bring your full self to be seen and appreciated. My goal is to truly understand who you are and what it feels like to be you.
Do you sometimes feel misunderstood by others? Are you craving close and peaceful relationships with others but find them challenging? Is internal sadness and emptiness a familiar feeling for you? If you're struggling with these feelings, I might be able to help. I work to help individuals who struggle with inner conflict and interpersonal challenges, find love, peace and joy. My approach is kind, empathic and straightforward. I provide a safe space where you can openly be you and bring your full self to be seen and appreciated. My goal is to truly understand who you are and what it feels like to be you.
(646) 780-7761 View (646) 780-7761
Photo of Marina M Chernyak, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plainview, NY
Marina M Chernyak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11223
I have been a mental health professional for over 20 years. I received my Master's Degree in Social Work from New York University. My professional experience ranges from working with adults and the elderly, to young adults and teenagers. I see patients for individual therapy, couples therapy and family therapy. I specialize in a wide range of issues including but not limited to: anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorders, poor social skills, struggles with work life, struggles with personal life, vertigo, daytime sleepiness, addiction, eating disorders, anger management, people with immigration history or immigrant families, postpartum depression, phobias/panic attacks.
I have been a mental health professional for over 20 years. I received my Master's Degree in Social Work from New York University. My professional experience ranges from working with adults and the elderly, to young adults and teenagers. I see patients for individual therapy, couples therapy and family therapy. I specialize in a wide range of issues including but not limited to: anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorders, poor social skills, struggles with work life, struggles with personal life, vertigo, daytime sleepiness, addiction, eating disorders, anger management, people with immigration history or immigrant families, postpartum depression, phobias/panic attacks.
(646) 762-6166 View (646) 762-6166
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.