Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Sherman Oaks, CA

Photo of Adriana Eversole, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Adriana Eversole
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
I treat a broad range of disorders including anxiety, depression, bipolar, behavioral concerns, and others.
In times of struggle or uncertainty, having the support and trust in someone you can talk to is an invaluable experience. In my practice, I aim to help clients identify and break free from their limiting beliefs and unhealthy patterns so they can live an authentic and fulfilling life. My experience as a licensed psychotherapist has led me to understand the value of mutual trust and a collaborative, client-centered approach. I provide a compassionate and empathetic atmosphere where we will work together to form a unique treatment plan to address your specific goals in coming to therapy.
I treat a broad range of disorders including anxiety, depression, bipolar, behavioral concerns, and others.
In times of struggle or uncertainty, having the support and trust in someone you can talk to is an invaluable experience. In my practice, I aim to help clients identify and break free from their limiting beliefs and unhealthy patterns so they can live an authentic and fulfilling life. My experience as a licensed psychotherapist has led me to understand the value of mutual trust and a collaborative, client-centered approach. I provide a compassionate and empathetic atmosphere where we will work together to form a unique treatment plan to address your specific goals in coming to therapy.
(424) 232-0942 View (424) 232-0942
Photo of Jesse Sandler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Jesse Sandler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, substance use, bipolar disorder, sleep disorders, and issues surrounding gender and sexuality.
Do you need a little more support and structure in your life? I run a variety of high energy groups to help keep you on track, including "I Hate Weekends" (a Sunday support group for people who tend to isolate on the weekends), "You Can't Stop The Waves, But You Can Learn To Surf" (a cognitive therapy group for depression and anxiety), and "Back to Life, Back to Reality" (a life transition group). It's amazing what can happen when people stop being polite and start getting real...
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, substance use, bipolar disorder, sleep disorders, and issues surrounding gender and sexuality.
Do you need a little more support and structure in your life? I run a variety of high energy groups to help keep you on track, including "I Hate Weekends" (a Sunday support group for people who tend to isolate on the weekends), "You Can't Stop The Waves, But You Can Learn To Surf" (a cognitive therapy group for depression and anxiety), and "Back to Life, Back to Reality" (a life transition group). It's amazing what can happen when people stop being polite and start getting real...
(310) 929-6686 View (310) 929-6686
Photo of Teri Arana, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Teri Arana
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423  (Online Only)
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, OCD, and gender dysphoria.
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, OCD, and gender dysphoria.
We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be. Now welcoming new patients!
(213) 376-5672 View (213) 376-5672
Photo of Paola Barba, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Paola Barba
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403  (Online Only)
Your past does not define who you are, nor do your mistakes. Everyone deserves second chances at life and in treatment. I work extensively with children, teens, and families to treat a variety of disorders including depression, anxiety, bipolar, autism, and ADHD to name a few. With over seven years of experience in the mental health field, my practice uses a tailored approach to meet each individual client's needs by utilizing a variety of therapeutic modalities including CBT, DBT, ACT, motivational interviewing, narrative therapy, positive psychology, client centered, and solution-focused techniques among others.
Your past does not define who you are, nor do your mistakes. Everyone deserves second chances at life and in treatment. I work extensively with children, teens, and families to treat a variety of disorders including depression, anxiety, bipolar, autism, and ADHD to name a few. With over seven years of experience in the mental health field, my practice uses a tailored approach to meet each individual client's needs by utilizing a variety of therapeutic modalities including CBT, DBT, ACT, motivational interviewing, narrative therapy, positive psychology, client centered, and solution-focused techniques among others.
(747) 205-0794 View (747) 205-0794
Photo of Shawn Lare Brinkley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Shawn Lare Brinkley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
I am an eclectic therapist, meaning I do not subscribe to any one therapeutic modality as I believe the therapeutic process is fluid and as a clinician, I must be the same. I help you manage depression, anxiety, ADHD, adjustment disorder, grief/loss, PTSD, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, children and adolescents navigating the difficulties of adjusting to parent's divorcing and behavioral issues such as oppositional defiance and conduct issues. In an effort to meet my clients where they are, I will take the time needed to examine, with you, the core issues surrounding the problem and assist in developing solutions from that ground work.
I am an eclectic therapist, meaning I do not subscribe to any one therapeutic modality as I believe the therapeutic process is fluid and as a clinician, I must be the same. I help you manage depression, anxiety, ADHD, adjustment disorder, grief/loss, PTSD, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, children and adolescents navigating the difficulties of adjusting to parent's divorcing and behavioral issues such as oppositional defiance and conduct issues. In an effort to meet my clients where they are, I will take the time needed to examine, with you, the core issues surrounding the problem and assist in developing solutions from that ground work.
(818) 214-7362 View (818) 214-7362
Photo of Farzaneh Ehsan, Psychologist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Farzaneh Ehsan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
Waitlist for new clients
I have over ten years of clinical work and experience as a licensed psychologist ,registered psychologist, in addition to internship experience in counseling adults and older adults of various ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds. I have been trained in different Evidenced Based Practices (EBP), such as PST, IPT and CBT modalities. I provide neurofeedback therapy services in addition to psychotherapy. Neurofeedback is direct training of brain function, by which the brain learns to function more efficiently.
I have over ten years of clinical work and experience as a licensed psychologist ,registered psychologist, in addition to internship experience in counseling adults and older adults of various ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds. I have been trained in different Evidenced Based Practices (EBP), such as PST, IPT and CBT modalities. I provide neurofeedback therapy services in addition to psychotherapy. Neurofeedback is direct training of brain function, by which the brain learns to function more efficiently.
(747) 529-7579 View (747) 529-7579
Photo of Wendy Douglas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Wendy Douglas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSPH
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
Are you wanting to overcome what is standing in the way of making meaningful changes? I am passionate about helping my clients create a peaceful, more fulfilling life. Therapy can help you develop greater insight into yourself, your relationships, and your own decision-making process. I have down-to-earth approach in a caring, non-judgmental and safe environment. I have been practicing for more than 18 years and have been extensively trained in Cognitive and Dialectical Behavior Therapies (CBT & DBT) as well as Prolonged Exposure (PE) for trauma.
Are you wanting to overcome what is standing in the way of making meaningful changes? I am passionate about helping my clients create a peaceful, more fulfilling life. Therapy can help you develop greater insight into yourself, your relationships, and your own decision-making process. I have down-to-earth approach in a caring, non-judgmental and safe environment. I have been practicing for more than 18 years and have been extensively trained in Cognitive and Dialectical Behavior Therapies (CBT & DBT) as well as Prolonged Exposure (PE) for trauma.
(424) 570-3092 View (424) 570-3092
Photo of Anger Management 818, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Anger Management 818
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, TFT, CAMS-IV
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
Do your colleagues, friends or family tell you to get help to work through your anger? Is your relationship or work life at risk because of your irritability? At Anger Management 818 we offer several different programs designed to help you navigate through upsetting situations, and handle conflicts effectively. Let our certified anger management counselors help you manage your daily life more smoothly and calmly. Learn to communicate without getting defensive, increase empathy, deescalate a situation, and manage situations diplomatically. Become the person you want to be. Take your first step today and enroll through our website.
Do your colleagues, friends or family tell you to get help to work through your anger? Is your relationship or work life at risk because of your irritability? At Anger Management 818 we offer several different programs designed to help you navigate through upsetting situations, and handle conflicts effectively. Let our certified anger management counselors help you manage your daily life more smoothly and calmly. Learn to communicate without getting defensive, increase empathy, deescalate a situation, and manage situations diplomatically. Become the person you want to be. Take your first step today and enroll through our website.
(818) 853-9469 View (818) 853-9469
Photo of Milla Zeltzer, Psy.D., Psychologist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Milla Zeltzer, Psy.D.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
When you are standing at crossroad, overwhelmed by life's decisions, or feeling sad, disappointed and hopeless, engaging in a therapeutic relationship can offer a safe and nurturing space to work through the issues that are in your way. Therapy can provide a relief and free you up to reach for your dreams. I work from the perspective of Depth Psychology, searching below the surface, looking to help you understand your unconscious drives and motivations that steer your life in an unwanted direction.
When you are standing at crossroad, overwhelmed by life's decisions, or feeling sad, disappointed and hopeless, engaging in a therapeutic relationship can offer a safe and nurturing space to work through the issues that are in your way. Therapy can provide a relief and free you up to reach for your dreams. I work from the perspective of Depth Psychology, searching below the surface, looking to help you understand your unconscious drives and motivations that steer your life in an unwanted direction.
(213) 973-4679 View (213) 973-4679
Photo of Gregg Ratinoff, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Gregg Ratinoff
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403  (Online Only)
I recently published my book "Hood Therapist" on Amazon. The book is about my experience as a therapist working with inner-city youth and therapy in general. I am an LMFT with 15 years of experience working with teenagers & adults in individual therapy and couples' therapy. In addition to my private practice experience, I am a Mental Health Clinical Supervisor for the County of Los Angeles Department of Mental Health which has provided me a wealth of clinical experience and training. This experience has allowed me to fine-tune my clinical skill set across a large swath of clients from all walks of life.
I recently published my book "Hood Therapist" on Amazon. The book is about my experience as a therapist working with inner-city youth and therapy in general. I am an LMFT with 15 years of experience working with teenagers & adults in individual therapy and couples' therapy. In addition to my private practice experience, I am a Mental Health Clinical Supervisor for the County of Los Angeles Department of Mental Health which has provided me a wealth of clinical experience and training. This experience has allowed me to fine-tune my clinical skill set across a large swath of clients from all walks of life.
(747) 252-5382 View (747) 252-5382
Photo of Laurie Boxer, Psychologist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Laurie Boxer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
Dr. Laurie Boxer is a licensed psychologist in private practice as well as clinical director of an outpatient treatment program at a medical center. A graduate of UCLA and Syracuse University, with over 20 years of clinical practice, Dr. Boxer has expertise in treating a broad range of psychological conditions and interpersonal problems. Dr. Boxer has advanced professional training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Treatment, Marital Therapy. Dr. Boxer employs empirically based approaches to the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder, and other anxiety disorders, mood disorders, emotion regulation problems, and relationship issues.
Dr. Laurie Boxer is a licensed psychologist in private practice as well as clinical director of an outpatient treatment program at a medical center. A graduate of UCLA and Syracuse University, with over 20 years of clinical practice, Dr. Boxer has expertise in treating a broad range of psychological conditions and interpersonal problems. Dr. Boxer has advanced professional training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Treatment, Marital Therapy. Dr. Boxer employs empirically based approaches to the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder, and other anxiety disorders, mood disorders, emotion regulation problems, and relationship issues.
(818) 660-0024 View (818) 660-0024
Photo of Muriel Ghislaine Gaudin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Muriel Ghislaine Gaudin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91401
As we move through life, some challenges easily become roadblocks to living the life we want. In therapy you can start to understand your struggles, find your strengths and experience a world that is unique to you. Therapy could be the most significant step you have ever taken. Together we might explore how your past relationships and your relationships with others came to be, how to integrate the conflict and tension that have become a challenge in your life, how to develop new skills to manage the issues you are presently facing.
As we move through life, some challenges easily become roadblocks to living the life we want. In therapy you can start to understand your struggles, find your strengths and experience a world that is unique to you. Therapy could be the most significant step you have ever taken. Together we might explore how your past relationships and your relationships with others came to be, how to integrate the conflict and tension that have become a challenge in your life, how to develop new skills to manage the issues you are presently facing.
(818) 869-2644 View (818) 869-2644
Photo of Kristin Marguerite Doidge, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Sherman Oaks, CA
Kristin Marguerite Doidge
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
I specialize in helping artists, writers, journalists, authors, musicians, actors, filmmakers and creative people from all walks of life to rediscover and reconnect with their passion and creativity. As a writer myself, I understand how artistic pursuits can bring up unexpected connections and challenges in our personal lives and vice versa. It would be a privilege to work together toward a more balanced, robust, and hopeful existence. Let me be your guide & support as we build essential coping skills, explore the past & develop tools and resources to turn daydreams into reality now and in the future. I look forward to meeting you!
I specialize in helping artists, writers, journalists, authors, musicians, actors, filmmakers and creative people from all walks of life to rediscover and reconnect with their passion and creativity. As a writer myself, I understand how artistic pursuits can bring up unexpected connections and challenges in our personal lives and vice versa. It would be a privilege to work together toward a more balanced, robust, and hopeful existence. Let me be your guide & support as we build essential coping skills, explore the past & develop tools and resources to turn daydreams into reality now and in the future. I look forward to meeting you!
(310) 634-0746 View (310) 634-0746
Photo of RecoverWell in Sherman Oaks, CA
RecoverWell
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403  (Online Only)
RecoverWell is a free to use service that matches the treatment needs of patients to the admitting criteria of addiction and mental health treatment facilities with the support of a social worker. RecoverWell works with patients, licensed clinical social workers and mental health therapists to help quickly and accurately identify no-cost or low-cost treatment resources for patients with substance use, mental health and eating disorders. We get patients into high quality treatment programs fast.
RecoverWell is a free to use service that matches the treatment needs of patients to the admitting criteria of addiction and mental health treatment facilities with the support of a social worker. RecoverWell works with patients, licensed clinical social workers and mental health therapists to help quickly and accurately identify no-cost or low-cost treatment resources for patients with substance use, mental health and eating disorders. We get patients into high quality treatment programs fast.
(747) 232-5304 View (747) 232-5304
Photo of Inga Simonian, Psychologist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Inga Simonian
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
I am the founder and director of Conscious Connections Psychology Group. The mission and vision of our group is to provide quality, holistic and affordable care to people surrounding Sherman Oaks, San Fernando, Pasadena, and throughout California thanks to telehealth. At Conscious Connections, we bridge the gap between Western evidence based practices and ancient healing of the soul. We strive to make each individual and community well and whole. We prioritize preventive and integrative care. Ultimately we strive for you to have a strong connection to your inner healer and messenger, so that you can be integrated, whole and thrive.
I am the founder and director of Conscious Connections Psychology Group. The mission and vision of our group is to provide quality, holistic and affordable care to people surrounding Sherman Oaks, San Fernando, Pasadena, and throughout California thanks to telehealth. At Conscious Connections, we bridge the gap between Western evidence based practices and ancient healing of the soul. We strive to make each individual and community well and whole. We prioritize preventive and integrative care. Ultimately we strive for you to have a strong connection to your inner healer and messenger, so that you can be integrated, whole and thrive.
(818) 921-4204 View (818) 921-4204
Photo of Richard Berg, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Richard Berg
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
Do you want to turn your life around? Do you hope to find a way out and end the pain you may be feeling now ? Are you going thru life now and thinking "I have to turn my life around". In my twenty years of experience, I have come to understand that sticking to the process of therapy is a courageous first step. When you are in pain, it is very hard to find the hope and motivation to stay the course. I know participating in therapy can help. I can help you reap these benefits. It requires committing to this process. Commitment is the key and I believe that helping you gain insight will give you the power to find your way out.
Do you want to turn your life around? Do you hope to find a way out and end the pain you may be feeling now ? Are you going thru life now and thinking "I have to turn my life around". In my twenty years of experience, I have come to understand that sticking to the process of therapy is a courageous first step. When you are in pain, it is very hard to find the hope and motivation to stay the course. I know participating in therapy can help. I can help you reap these benefits. It requires committing to this process. Commitment is the key and I believe that helping you gain insight will give you the power to find your way out.
(747) 229-0875 x818645 View (747) 229-0875 x818645
Photo of Joanne Freed, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Joanne Freed
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
I work mainly with women 40 and over, who are experiencing life transitions such as career conflicts, relationship issues, self-esteem issues, and spiritual concerns. I also work with males, and females under 40. I am Psychodynamically and Psychoanalytically trained, as well as, experienced and trained in using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I also use a Holistic approach in my work with my clients, which means I include the physical, mental, and spiritual dimensions to bring about a deeper and holistic approach to treatment. I have training in many aspects of Spiritual Psychology, and I am trained as an Evidenced Based Practice therapist. I like to work with individuals who are interested in self-reflection and increasing their self-awareness in order to bring about change, balance, and joy in their life's. I use an empathic, supportive, and non-judgemental approach in my work with clients, which creates an environment for growth and symptom relieve. I create a treatment plan unique to the needs and circumstances of each person I see in treatment.
I work mainly with women 40 and over, who are experiencing life transitions such as career conflicts, relationship issues, self-esteem issues, and spiritual concerns. I also work with males, and females under 40. I am Psychodynamically and Psychoanalytically trained, as well as, experienced and trained in using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I also use a Holistic approach in my work with my clients, which means I include the physical, mental, and spiritual dimensions to bring about a deeper and holistic approach to treatment. I have training in many aspects of Spiritual Psychology, and I am trained as an Evidenced Based Practice therapist. I like to work with individuals who are interested in self-reflection and increasing their self-awareness in order to bring about change, balance, and joy in their life's. I use an empathic, supportive, and non-judgemental approach in my work with clients, which creates an environment for growth and symptom relieve. I create a treatment plan unique to the needs and circumstances of each person I see in treatment.
(818) 492-4274 View (818) 492-4274
Photo of Nazy Khorsandi, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Nazy Khorsandi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
I enjoy showing you your own divine potential as fully loving and successful beings. I will gently but directly encourage you to identify themes and patterns in your life that are no longer working for you. By gaining awareness you can explore new ways of being, thinking, and behaving. You’ll be able to reach and maintain the fulfilling life that you want and deserve to have. I will help you make peace with your past, gain insight, cultivate your inner strength, and overcome your challenges in dealing with daily stressors, childhood traumas, relationship issues, or emotional exhaustion. Together we can turn your wounds into wisdom.
I enjoy showing you your own divine potential as fully loving and successful beings. I will gently but directly encourage you to identify themes and patterns in your life that are no longer working for you. By gaining awareness you can explore new ways of being, thinking, and behaving. You’ll be able to reach and maintain the fulfilling life that you want and deserve to have. I will help you make peace with your past, gain insight, cultivate your inner strength, and overcome your challenges in dealing with daily stressors, childhood traumas, relationship issues, or emotional exhaustion. Together we can turn your wounds into wisdom.
(323) 310-2393 View (323) 310-2393
Photo of Leslie Munguia, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Leslie Munguia
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403  (Online Only)
I believe everyone is capable of change. Regardless of what has occurred in the past, it’s never too late to create a fulfilling and meaningful future. My experience in psychotherapy has led me to understand that we are all human and continuing to grow throughout different phases of life. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, stress, parenting distress, or other mental health issues, together I can help you to overcome your current struggles. Through the therapeutic process, we will work to help you live fully in the present regardless of what has occurred in your past.
I believe everyone is capable of change. Regardless of what has occurred in the past, it’s never too late to create a fulfilling and meaningful future. My experience in psychotherapy has led me to understand that we are all human and continuing to grow throughout different phases of life. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, stress, parenting distress, or other mental health issues, together I can help you to overcome your current struggles. Through the therapeutic process, we will work to help you live fully in the present regardless of what has occurred in your past.
(747) 269-6106 View (747) 269-6106
Photo of Matt Gallenstein, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Sherman Oaks, CA
Matt Gallenstein
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
Born and raised in Southern California, I've been gripped with questions of how to live a meaningful life since I was a child writing oddly existential poems on the nature of time (and how grapes can turn into raisins.) My search for answers led me to study literature, film, and theater, and to work for a decade in the arts while also volunteering in suicide crisis prevention and psychedelic harm reduction. Seeking to be of greater service to others, I earned a master's degree in clinical psychology with clinical experience focused on adolescents in residential treatment and trauma-informed psychedelic-assisted therapy for adults.
Born and raised in Southern California, I've been gripped with questions of how to live a meaningful life since I was a child writing oddly existential poems on the nature of time (and how grapes can turn into raisins.) My search for answers led me to study literature, film, and theater, and to work for a decade in the arts while also volunteering in suicide crisis prevention and psychedelic harm reduction. Seeking to be of greater service to others, I earned a master's degree in clinical psychology with clinical experience focused on adolescents in residential treatment and trauma-informed psychedelic-assisted therapy for adults.
(747) 298-6026 View (747) 298-6026

See more therapy options for Sherman Oaks

Bipolar Disorder Therapists

What is the most successful approach to treating bipolar disorder?

Living with bipolar disorder can be challenging, and a number of therapies have been found effective in providing support to patients as they gain the skills to understand and manage the disorder. Family-focused therapy is often helpful for children and teens (the majority of cases develop before age 19); it aims to minimize mood cycling by improving family communication and reducing conflict. It also helps young people navigate the developmental challenges the disorder can create. Cognitive and behavioral therapy (CBT) and variants such as Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)help patients manage the thoughts and feelings that influence bipolar mood swings as well as develop specific behavioral strategies to counteract them.

What happens in therapy for bipolar disorder?

Because the patterns of mood switching and its triggers differ for each person and can change over time, mood tracking or monitoring becomes a basic way patients learn about the nature of their condition. One of the most common features of therapy is finding a workable method of mood monitoring, in which patients track their daily activities and rate their moods, then use the findings to adjust routines accordingly. Patients learn ways of handling the many stresses that arise in life so that they do not trigger mood swings.

What kinds of problems does therapy help with?

Like many other mental health disorders, BPD is heavily influenced by stress; therapy provides skills for coping with stressors of all kinds. Therapy is extremely important for helping individuals identify the situations that may trigger mood switching, so that mood swings can be prevented. Therapy may especially target recognition of the early stages of mood change so that they can be managed. In addition, therapy helps patients deal with the significant amount of turbulence the disorder can create in relationships and in work life.

What is the goal of therapy for bipolar disorder?

Therapy helps patients set up their lives to maintain stability so that their mood isn’t constantly threatened by daily events. Perhaps the first task of therapy is to educate people about the nature of the disorder. At the same time, a primary goal of therapy is to enhance adherence to drug treatment. Extended periods of mood stability can prompt patients to discontinue medication, triggering relapse, while the early phases of manic episodes can feel so energizing that patients stop medication, ushering in full-blown mania and the altered self-perception that can lead to destructive behaviors. Another major goal of therapy is to understand one’s mood patterns so as to minimize both the frequency and intensity of mood cycling.