Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Brooklyn, NY

Photo of Hillary Glick, PhD, Psychologist
Hillary Glick
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11233
If you suffer from depression/ bipolar disorder, trauma history, or bad relationships you know how tough emotional pain is.
Trust and a sense of safety are necessary foundations for successful therapy. Yet they don't come automatically. They have to be built and earned over time. I respect the tremendous courage it takes to face up to deeply buried or avoided thoughts and feelings. I work best with people who take their therapy seriously and are curious about finding new ways of thinking about themselves and others in their lives. I use insight oriented therapies as well as mindfulness to help us stay in the moment. My approach is tailored individually to your needs. Recently I added EMDR and some IFS to my work.
If you suffer from depression/ bipolar disorder, trauma history, or bad relationships you know how tough emotional pain is.
Trust and a sense of safety are necessary foundations for successful therapy. Yet they don't come automatically. They have to be built and earned over time. I respect the tremendous courage it takes to face up to deeply buried or avoided thoughts and feelings. I work best with people who take their therapy seriously and are curious about finding new ways of thinking about themselves and others in their lives. I use insight oriented therapies as well as mindfulness to help us stay in the moment. My approach is tailored individually to your needs. Recently I added EMDR and some IFS to my work.
(646) 386-2213 View (646) 386-2213
Photo of Brannan Mary Piper, BS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brannan Mary Piper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11237
I am an individual psychotherapist who has been practicing for over 30 years. Because of my extensive training I am equipped to treat numerous conditions. My areas of specialization focus on depression, Bipolar, anxiety, self-esteem, and problems originating in childhood. If you are facing any of these challenges then you have found the right therapist. Highly intuitive, gentle, curious and a good listener, I value a stance which is open-minded and non-judgmental. I provide a calming and affirming environment in which you are free to share your issues and problems.
I am an individual psychotherapist who has been practicing for over 30 years. Because of my extensive training I am equipped to treat numerous conditions. My areas of specialization focus on depression, Bipolar, anxiety, self-esteem, and problems originating in childhood. If you are facing any of these challenges then you have found the right therapist. Highly intuitive, gentle, curious and a good listener, I value a stance which is open-minded and non-judgmental. I provide a calming and affirming environment in which you are free to share your issues and problems.
(646) 681-8736 View (646) 681-8736
Photo of Steve R Antoine, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Steve R Antoine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11203  (Online Only)
I have been trained in Structural Family Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT for Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder and CBT for Couples).
I hope to contribute compassion to the recovery of people living productive lives but needing assistance managing mental health needs, interacting with others or navigating the behavioral health system. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over ten years of experience and engagement expertise in working collaboratively with diverse populations, families, groups, and individuals.
I have been trained in Structural Family Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT for Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder and CBT for Couples).
I hope to contribute compassion to the recovery of people living productive lives but needing assistance managing mental health needs, interacting with others or navigating the behavioral health system. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over ten years of experience and engagement expertise in working collaboratively with diverse populations, families, groups, and individuals.
(516) 271-3143 View (516) 271-3143
Photo of Alura Bennett, LMHC, Counselor
Alura Bennett
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11215
With a background in educational and community-based settings, I have extensive experience assisting individuals and families facing various challenges including depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, bipolar, family conflicts, social anxiety and school-related issues. My expertise extends to working with children and adolescents, providing a supportive environment to address behavioral and school related challenges. My therapeutic approach is collaborative and person-centered, tailored to meet each client's unique needs.
With a background in educational and community-based settings, I have extensive experience assisting individuals and families facing various challenges including depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, bipolar, family conflicts, social anxiety and school-related issues. My expertise extends to working with children and adolescents, providing a supportive environment to address behavioral and school related challenges. My therapeutic approach is collaborative and person-centered, tailored to meet each client's unique needs.
(646) 760-3298 View (646) 760-3298
Photo of Dr. Regina Bordieri, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Regina Bordieri
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11242  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience helping couples & families cope with life transitions & heal past relationship injuries. I use Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to help couples escape negative cycles, reduce conflict & reconnect - research consistently shows 90% report significant improvements. I also offer short-term, skills-based relationship coaching, premarital counseling, and relationship enhancement programs, Discernment Counseling for couples considering divorce, & therapy for couples coping with a bipolar diagnosis. I offer flexible scheduling options including Sat & Sun every weekend & online schedule to self-book appointments.
I have extensive experience helping couples & families cope with life transitions & heal past relationship injuries. I use Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to help couples escape negative cycles, reduce conflict & reconnect - research consistently shows 90% report significant improvements. I also offer short-term, skills-based relationship coaching, premarital counseling, and relationship enhancement programs, Discernment Counseling for couples considering divorce, & therapy for couples coping with a bipolar diagnosis. I offer flexible scheduling options including Sat & Sun every weekend & online schedule to self-book appointments.
(619) 332-0627 View (619) 332-0627
Photo of Leah Grunwald - Point Clarity Services, LCSW, CFSW, SIFI, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
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 Sohaib Javed, MHC-LP
Sohaib Javed
MHC-LP
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11201  (Online Only)
I also incorporate other styles such as play-therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and writing & art focused interventions in treating co-occurring issues related to depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use, addiction, grief, trauma, schizophrenia, and sexual & gender identity exploration.
My approach to therapy is providing a space for anyone that wishes to be heard, seen, and respected in a compassionate and non-judgmental manner. I’ve engaged in individual therapy, family therapy, and group therapy serving children, adolescents, young adults, and geriatric, BIPOC, and LGBTQIA identifying clientele. My primary approach is client- centered care in meeting individuals where they are in their healing process, and tailoring their treatment in a manner that is collaborative and inclusive.
I also incorporate other styles such as play-therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and writing & art focused interventions in treating co-occurring issues related to depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use, addiction, grief, trauma, schizophrenia, and sexual & gender identity exploration.
My approach to therapy is providing a space for anyone that wishes to be heard, seen, and respected in a compassionate and non-judgmental manner. I’ve engaged in individual therapy, family therapy, and group therapy serving children, adolescents, young adults, and geriatric, BIPOC, and LGBTQIA identifying clientele. My primary approach is client- centered care in meeting individuals where they are in their healing process, and tailoring their treatment in a manner that is collaborative and inclusive.
(929) 547-6418 View (929) 547-6418
Photo of Lyudmila Gonik, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lyudmila Gonik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11230  (Online Only)
Currently, after 15 years of working at the city outpatient mental health clinic I am very excited to open my own private practice providing a high quality of care using telehealth platforms. I have experience helping clients of different age groups and with various mental health issues. My ideal client is someone who suffers from depression/ anxiety/ bipolar disorders, has relationships issues or difficulties to cope with work, school or life transitions stressors. Also, I like to help immigrants adjusting to living in the USA, especially clients from the former Soviet Union. I am fluent in English and Russian languages.
Currently, after 15 years of working at the city outpatient mental health clinic I am very excited to open my own private practice providing a high quality of care using telehealth platforms. I have experience helping clients of different age groups and with various mental health issues. My ideal client is someone who suffers from depression/ anxiety/ bipolar disorders, has relationships issues or difficulties to cope with work, school or life transitions stressors. Also, I like to help immigrants adjusting to living in the USA, especially clients from the former Soviet Union. I am fluent in English and Russian languages.
(718) 736-2721 View (718) 736-2721
Photo of David Freedman, PsyD, Psychologist
David Freedman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11226  (Online Only)
I have experience working with individuals dealing with a variety of challenges, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and personality and interpersonal issues.
Life transitions - from getting married, a new job, having children, or retirement - present us with new and unique challenges that we have to navigate. Oftentimes the challenges presented by these life transitions are informed by our experiences in navigating previous major life transitions. My approach to psychotherapy is to examine not only the current challenges but also any previous obstacles that we have faced in order to determine what interpersonal, internal, and skills-based needs may be getting in the way of successfully navigating the current situation.
I have experience working with individuals dealing with a variety of challenges, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and personality and interpersonal issues.
Life transitions - from getting married, a new job, having children, or retirement - present us with new and unique challenges that we have to navigate. Oftentimes the challenges presented by these life transitions are informed by our experiences in navigating previous major life transitions. My approach to psychotherapy is to examine not only the current challenges but also any previous obstacles that we have faced in order to determine what interpersonal, internal, and skills-based needs may be getting in the way of successfully navigating the current situation.
(718) 682-7984 View (718) 682-7984
Photo of Arthur Kukuyev - New York Psychiatric Services, PC, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
New York Psychiatric Services, PC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11235
Hello everyone! Living in New York City may be a challenge, filled with stress. anxiety and depression. With these challenges you need a helping hand to guide you through. I specialize in Mood Disorders, Bipolar disorders, Anxiety, Depression and PTSD.
Hello everyone! Living in New York City may be a challenge, filled with stress. anxiety and depression. With these challenges you need a helping hand to guide you through. I specialize in Mood Disorders, Bipolar disorders, Anxiety, Depression and PTSD.
(347) 851-1972 View (347) 851-1972
Photo of Alan Vanell, MA,  LMHC, Counselor
Alan Vanell
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11201
He is especially passionate about treating ADHD, bipolar disorder, and somatoform disorders, employing a range of interventions to suit the unique needs of his clients.
Alan Vanell is dedicated to supporting individuals in their journey towards mental wellness, offering his expertise in New York to those seeking relief and understanding. At LifeStance Health, Alan utilizes his extensive skills in case management and therapy to help clients navigate complex emotions and life challenges. He is particularly adept at working with individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, and substance abuse, as well as those struggling with trauma, including immigrationrelated issues.
He is especially passionate about treating ADHD, bipolar disorder, and somatoform disorders, employing a range of interventions to suit the unique needs of his clients.
Alan Vanell is dedicated to supporting individuals in their journey towards mental wellness, offering his expertise in New York to those seeking relief and understanding. At LifeStance Health, Alan utilizes his extensive skills in case management and therapy to help clients navigate complex emotions and life challenges. He is particularly adept at working with individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, and substance abuse, as well as those struggling with trauma, including immigrationrelated issues.
(855) 688-1397 View (855) 688-1397
Photo of Lisa Wilkinson, LMHC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lisa Wilkinson
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11226
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, borderline, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ , adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Lisa Wilkinson is a LMHC with Footprints which was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. We began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, borderline, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ , adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Lisa Wilkinson is a LMHC with Footprints which was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. We began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
(646) 204-2295 View (646) 204-2295
Photo of Patrycja Golak, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patrycja Golak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11249  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with young adults and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, and other psychiatric diagnoses (including psychosis).
My passion lies in working with individuals who have been diagnosed with a serious mental illness. My work as a psychiatric social worker has influenced my strong belief in the power of talk therapy within the world of psychiatry and mental health as a complement to other treatments. While medications can treat symptoms, processing past experiences can really help address the underlying issues that may be contributing to the symptoms. As your therapist, I want to dig down there with you to understand how past experiences are impacting you now and explore strategies we can put in place to help you move toward your future.
I specialize in working with young adults and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, and other psychiatric diagnoses (including psychosis).
My passion lies in working with individuals who have been diagnosed with a serious mental illness. My work as a psychiatric social worker has influenced my strong belief in the power of talk therapy within the world of psychiatry and mental health as a complement to other treatments. While medications can treat symptoms, processing past experiences can really help address the underlying issues that may be contributing to the symptoms. As your therapist, I want to dig down there with you to understand how past experiences are impacting you now and explore strategies we can put in place to help you move toward your future.
(347) 836-5963 View (347) 836-5963
Photo of Lynne Spevack, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lynne Spevack
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11210  (Online Only)
SEEKING RESULTS? CONSIDER A THERAPIST'S THERAPIST: I'm a seasoned counselor, skilled in scientifically proven, results-oriented methods like Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy. Unlike some CB therapists, my style is responsive, interactive & versatile, combining elements of psychodynamic, family/systems, and other approaches. As a respected senior clinician with 40 years of experience, I’m sought out as a therapist and mentor by other mid-career therapists. I have skill and expertise in couples and family therapy, helping teens and tweens and their families, and persons with Bipolar or Borderline Personality Disorder and their families.
SEEKING RESULTS? CONSIDER A THERAPIST'S THERAPIST: I'm a seasoned counselor, skilled in scientifically proven, results-oriented methods like Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy. Unlike some CB therapists, my style is responsive, interactive & versatile, combining elements of psychodynamic, family/systems, and other approaches. As a respected senior clinician with 40 years of experience, I’m sought out as a therapist and mentor by other mid-career therapists. I have skill and expertise in couples and family therapy, helping teens and tweens and their families, and persons with Bipolar or Borderline Personality Disorder and their families.
(718) 377-3400 View (718) 377-3400
Photo of Bianca I. Morisset, LMHC, Counselor
Bianca I. Morisset
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11226  (Online Only)
She provides individual and group counseling to a range of individuals dealing with but not limited to Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar/Psychotic Disorders, trauma and other behavioral issues.
Bianca Morisset is a board-certified license mental health counselor in the state of New York who holds a dual B.A./M.A. degree in forensic psychology from John Jay college. She has years of clinical experience across a variety of settings such as large nonprofits, outpatient, correctional and private practice working with adults, adolescents and families who suffer from a variety of mental illnesses.Bianca has been a practicing psychotherapist for 10 years and has supervisory and leadership experience. She currently works at Correctional Facility.
She provides individual and group counseling to a range of individuals dealing with but not limited to Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar/Psychotic Disorders, trauma and other behavioral issues.
Bianca Morisset is a board-certified license mental health counselor in the state of New York who holds a dual B.A./M.A. degree in forensic psychology from John Jay college. She has years of clinical experience across a variety of settings such as large nonprofits, outpatient, correctional and private practice working with adults, adolescents and families who suffer from a variety of mental illnesses.Bianca has been a practicing psychotherapist for 10 years and has supervisory and leadership experience. She currently works at Correctional Facility.
(347) 727-1622 View (347) 727-1622
Photo of Peter Gregory Tyson Jr, LMSW
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 Linnea Mavrides, PsyD, Psychologist
Linnea Mavrides
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11215
I am a clinical psychologist experienced in working with individuals and couples around a variety of emotional and life challenges, including grief and loss, trauma, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, personality disorders, and substance abuse. I specialize in working with women and couples dealing with challenges around pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum depression/anxiety, and adjustment to parenting. I also see mothers and infants together to address issues in attachment and communication. My orientation is primarily psychodynamic and interpersonal, although I am trained in CBT, DBT, and CPT and do integrate these strategies as needed.
I am a clinical psychologist experienced in working with individuals and couples around a variety of emotional and life challenges, including grief and loss, trauma, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, personality disorders, and substance abuse. I specialize in working with women and couples dealing with challenges around pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum depression/anxiety, and adjustment to parenting. I also see mothers and infants together to address issues in attachment and communication. My orientation is primarily psychodynamic and interpersonal, although I am trained in CBT, DBT, and CPT and do integrate these strategies as needed.
(917) 746-1648 View (917) 746-1648
Photo of Joseph Ramsey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joseph Ramsey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11219  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Joseph Ramsey and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I have 23 years of experience in the field and 16 of those 23 years has been spent providing counseling services to families, individuals, and couples. My approach is collaborative and I firmly believe in honesty and transparency. My focus areas are anxiety, depression, problems related to anxiety and depression (i.e. obsessive compulsive disorder) and trauma. I am most comfortable treating anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorders, bipolar I and II, mood disorders, grief, complex trauma, and anger issues.
Hello, my name is Joseph Ramsey and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I have 23 years of experience in the field and 16 of those 23 years has been spent providing counseling services to families, individuals, and couples. My approach is collaborative and I firmly believe in honesty and transparency. My focus areas are anxiety, depression, problems related to anxiety and depression (i.e. obsessive compulsive disorder) and trauma. I am most comfortable treating anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorders, bipolar I and II, mood disorders, grief, complex trauma, and anger issues.
(646) 718-3080 View (646) 718-3080
Photo of Pamela Pucci, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pamela Pucci
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11208  (Online Only)
Hello! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 6 years of counseling experience. My specialties include working with depression, anxiety, substance use, mood disorders, bipolar and borderline personality disorders, and more. My top modalities are cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and motivational interviewing. My behavioral health background includes case management, vocational case management, and social work for individuals with mental health and or substance use diagnosis. I use a person-centered, strengths-based approach to support you in making your desired changes.
Hello! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 6 years of counseling experience. My specialties include working with depression, anxiety, substance use, mood disorders, bipolar and borderline personality disorders, and more. My top modalities are cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and motivational interviewing. My behavioral health background includes case management, vocational case management, and social work for individuals with mental health and or substance use diagnosis. I use a person-centered, strengths-based approach to support you in making your desired changes.
(347) 797-5878 View (347) 797-5878
Photo of Troy Harris, LMSW
Troy Harris
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11201  (Online Only)
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.
If you're struggling with OCD or anxiety, you’re in the right place. I'm a trauma-informed psychotherapist specializing in OCD and anxiety-related disorders, and there are few things I love more than helping others find the relief they deserve. I have dedicated the entirety of my practice to treating anxiety, and primarily work with OCD, hoarding, social anxiety, generalized anxiety, panic disorder, and eating disorders. I also specialize in supporting individuals with complex trauma histories, especially those who have experienced sexual trauma, familial trauma, and exposure to violence.
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.
If you're struggling with OCD or anxiety, you’re in the right place. I'm a trauma-informed psychotherapist specializing in OCD and anxiety-related disorders, and there are few things I love more than helping others find the relief they deserve. I have dedicated the entirety of my practice to treating anxiety, and primarily work with OCD, hoarding, social anxiety, generalized anxiety, panic disorder, and eating disorders. I also specialize in supporting individuals with complex trauma histories, especially those who have experienced sexual trauma, familial trauma, and exposure to violence.
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Bipolar Disorder Therapists

What is the most successful approach to treating bipolar disorder?

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

What happens in therapy for bipolar disorder?

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

What kinds of problems does therapy help with?

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

What is the goal of therapy for bipolar disorder?

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