Photo of Inner Focus Psychiatry LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Brooklyn, NY
Inner Focus Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11236
Thank you for reading my profile. Yo hablo tambien el Español. I offer Video and Phone sessions, and your medications will be at the pharmacy the same day. Please note I am not in-network with any insurances at this time. As a board-certified psych NP, I'm licensed by the NY state to evaluate and treat psychiatric symptoms such as those associated with anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, and psychotic disorders. In combination with psychotherapy, I can also prescribe medications when indicated as they can be very helpful in alleviating your daily symptoms.
Thank you for reading my profile. Yo hablo tambien el Español. I offer Video and Phone sessions, and your medications will be at the pharmacy the same day. Please note I am not in-network with any insurances at this time. As a board-certified psych NP, I'm licensed by the NY state to evaluate and treat psychiatric symptoms such as those associated with anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, and psychotic disorders. In combination with psychotherapy, I can also prescribe medications when indicated as they can be very helpful in alleviating your daily symptoms.
(516) 980-3596 View (516) 980-3596
Photo of Toba Omidiji, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Brooklyn, NY
Toba Omidiji
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11212  (Online Only)
Toba has experience treating a range of psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, and schizophrenia; in both the inpatient and outpatient setting. He currently renders care to the young adult (17) and older adult population. When treating clients who are experiencing mental health issues it is very important to understand the other elements that may serve as contributing factors for their diagnosis. It takes a level of compassion, integrity, patience, and understanding to work with individuals who are experiencing difficulties managing mental health or the mental health of their loved ones.
Toba has experience treating a range of psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, and schizophrenia; in both the inpatient and outpatient setting. He currently renders care to the young adult (17) and older adult population. When treating clients who are experiencing mental health issues it is very important to understand the other elements that may serve as contributing factors for their diagnosis. It takes a level of compassion, integrity, patience, and understanding to work with individuals who are experiencing difficulties managing mental health or the mental health of their loved ones.
(718) 831-6668 View (718) 831-6668
Photo of Mariya Shavulskiy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Brooklyn, NY
Mariya Shavulskiy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11201
As a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I evaluate and treat psychiatric symptoms such as those associated with ADHD, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, anxiety, shizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. I am currently accepting new clients and provide medication management services, first time consultations to discuss treatment plans, and medication review/ discussion of options.
As a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I evaluate and treat psychiatric symptoms such as those associated with ADHD, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, anxiety, shizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. I am currently accepting new clients and provide medication management services, first time consultations to discuss treatment plans, and medication review/ discussion of options.
(929) 203-9141 View (929) 203-9141
Photo of Octavia Ingram, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Brooklyn, NY
Octavia Ingram
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11230  (Online Only)
I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and supportive therapy for patients experiencing depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder and personality disorders, stress intolerance and recovery from addiction.
Many patients present from families that were not educated about mental health. So through learned behavior the patient learns to suppress their emotions in fear they’ll be viewed as weak or flawed. Let’s work to break the generational stereotypes and achieve overall well being. You’re in the right place because seeking help is usually the most difficult step in your process.
I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and supportive therapy for patients experiencing depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder and personality disorders, stress intolerance and recovery from addiction.
Many patients present from families that were not educated about mental health. So through learned behavior the patient learns to suppress their emotions in fear they’ll be viewed as weak or flawed. Let’s work to break the generational stereotypes and achieve overall well being. You’re in the right place because seeking help is usually the most difficult step in your process.
(929) 203-8654 View (929) 203-8654
Photo of Stella O Okobi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Brooklyn, NY
Stella O Okobi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11236  (Online Only)
Her specialties include but are not limited to PTSD, anxiety, bipolar, and depression.
Stella enjoys communicating and educating her clients about the importance of taking an active role in their health and mental health. Sometimes this is easier said than done; but she believes as an advocate of mental health, building a trusting relationship with her clients will encourage them to not just simply ask questions but engage in a dialogue that will promote better health related decisions. She believes that creating a safe space exudes comfort, patience, and trust. Moreover, it will lead her clients to have better health outcomes. Having the will to make a change is pivotal. So she is ready when you are!
Her specialties include but are not limited to PTSD, anxiety, bipolar, and depression.
Stella enjoys communicating and educating her clients about the importance of taking an active role in their health and mental health. Sometimes this is easier said than done; but she believes as an advocate of mental health, building a trusting relationship with her clients will encourage them to not just simply ask questions but engage in a dialogue that will promote better health related decisions. She believes that creating a safe space exudes comfort, patience, and trust. Moreover, it will lead her clients to have better health outcomes. Having the will to make a change is pivotal. So she is ready when you are!
(347) 966-4856 View (347) 966-4856
Photo of Shervin Parvizi Ravan, Psychiatrist in Brooklyn, NY
Shervin Parvizi Ravan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11249  (Online Only)
My specialties include anxiety, depression, social phobia, performance anxiety, panic, ADHD, OCD, health anxiety, chronic dissatisfaction, bipolar disorder, trauma, grief, relationships, depersonalization, career/academic support, and life transitions such as career changes, divorce, breakups, and parenting.
I am a Columbia University trained psychiatrist and psychotherapist and the Medical Director of Greene Clinic. My treatment model combines evidence based psychotherapies, medications, nutrition and complementary/alternative interventions with the goal of providing comprehensive, well rounded, and individually focused care. Psychotherapy is central to my work and I utilize a variety of modalities including interpersonal psychoanalysis, psychodynamic psychotherapy, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). My approach is collaborative and non-authoritarian. OUT of network for all insurances.
My specialties include anxiety, depression, social phobia, performance anxiety, panic, ADHD, OCD, health anxiety, chronic dissatisfaction, bipolar disorder, trauma, grief, relationships, depersonalization, career/academic support, and life transitions such as career changes, divorce, breakups, and parenting.
I am a Columbia University trained psychiatrist and psychotherapist and the Medical Director of Greene Clinic. My treatment model combines evidence based psychotherapies, medications, nutrition and complementary/alternative interventions with the goal of providing comprehensive, well rounded, and individually focused care. Psychotherapy is central to my work and I utilize a variety of modalities including interpersonal psychoanalysis, psychodynamic psychotherapy, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). My approach is collaborative and non-authoritarian. OUT of network for all insurances.
(347) 514-9562 View (347) 514-9562
Photo of Cecilia M Lipira, Psychiatrist in Brooklyn, NY
Cecilia M Lipira
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11215  (Online Only)
I have expertise in treating depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, tic, ADHD, ODD, personality disorders, and eating disorders in children, teens, adults, and in pregnant and breastfeeding women.
I am a board-certified, Cornell and Mount Sinai-trained adult and child psychiatrist in New York and California. My approach to treatment is holistic and firmly rooted in the science of the brain, combining psychotherapy (for individuals, families, and couples) with nutrition, lifestyle modification, as well as state-of-the-art medication treatment, when helpful. I view each person as a complex individual with a unique story to tell, so I take time getting to know my clients and work collaboratively to develop a targeted plan to achieve their treatment goals.
I have expertise in treating depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, tic, ADHD, ODD, personality disorders, and eating disorders in children, teens, adults, and in pregnant and breastfeeding women.
I am a board-certified, Cornell and Mount Sinai-trained adult and child psychiatrist in New York and California. My approach to treatment is holistic and firmly rooted in the science of the brain, combining psychotherapy (for individuals, families, and couples) with nutrition, lifestyle modification, as well as state-of-the-art medication treatment, when helpful. I view each person as a complex individual with a unique story to tell, so I take time getting to know my clients and work collaboratively to develop a targeted plan to achieve their treatment goals.
(917) 525-4558 View (917) 525-4558
Photo of Jordana Michele Cotton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Brooklyn, NY
Jordana Michele Cotton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, PMHCNS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11242
I have expertise in treating insomnia, depression, generalized anxiety (worry), panic disorder, OCD, specific phobias, attentional disorders (ADHD), addictions, disordered eating, bipolar I and II disorders, and long covid (PASC).
I am a Doctoral trained Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 20+ years of health care experience and 16 years of psychopharmacology and psychotherapy expertise. I received my Doctorate and Master’s degrees from the prestigious Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) IHP in Boston. I provide a safe environment and partnership with my clients. I customize pharmaceutical and therapy solutions based on individual needs.
I have expertise in treating insomnia, depression, generalized anxiety (worry), panic disorder, OCD, specific phobias, attentional disorders (ADHD), addictions, disordered eating, bipolar I and II disorders, and long covid (PASC).
I am a Doctoral trained Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 20+ years of health care experience and 16 years of psychopharmacology and psychotherapy expertise. I received my Doctorate and Master’s degrees from the prestigious Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) IHP in Boston. I provide a safe environment and partnership with my clients. I customize pharmaceutical and therapy solutions based on individual needs.
(516) 701-3021 View (516) 701-3021
Photo of Dr. Gabriel Rodriguez, Psychiatrist in Brooklyn, NY
Dr. Gabriel Rodriguez
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11211
I am experienced in diagnosing and treating a wide array of emotional and psychiatric conditions, such as depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and distressing personality traits.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist who works with adolescents and adults. I completed medical school and psychiatry residency training at Yale University, where I currently also serve as an assistant professor. As a candidate in clinical psychoanalysis, I have keen interest in helping you understand the connection between past emotional experiences and your current struggles in order to provide with you with insight to improve your quality of life.
I am experienced in diagnosing and treating a wide array of emotional and psychiatric conditions, such as depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and distressing personality traits.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist who works with adolescents and adults. I completed medical school and psychiatry residency training at Yale University, where I currently also serve as an assistant professor. As a candidate in clinical psychoanalysis, I have keen interest in helping you understand the connection between past emotional experiences and your current struggles in order to provide with you with insight to improve your quality of life.
(929) 362-5982 View (929) 362-5982
Photo of Nabil Rezk, Psychiatrist in Brooklyn, NY
Nabil Rezk
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11209
Hello and welcome to my practice. I am Dr Rezk; Board Certified Psychiatrist. I graduated from Mount Sinai School of Medicine. I also did Psychodynamic psychotherapy fellowship at MSSM. My interest is towards my patients and my patients are my priority. I love my career and I love to take care of my patients. My 2 private Practice locations are at Bay Ridge BK and Astoria Queens which is very convenient and near transportation. We handle the work in a great team work manner and do great patients' care.
Hello and welcome to my practice. I am Dr Rezk; Board Certified Psychiatrist. I graduated from Mount Sinai School of Medicine. I also did Psychodynamic psychotherapy fellowship at MSSM. My interest is towards my patients and my patients are my priority. I love my career and I love to take care of my patients. My 2 private Practice locations are at Bay Ridge BK and Astoria Queens which is very convenient and near transportation. We handle the work in a great team work manner and do great patients' care.
(347) 578-7340 View (347) 578-7340
Photo of Judy E Vansiea, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Brooklyn, NY
Judy E Vansiea
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MA, MS, APRN, NPP
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11201  (Online Only)
Accepting new patients at my faith-based practice. Licensed as a Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatry/APRN with NY and KS. Educational degrees background consists of: Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP); Master of Science in Mental Health Psychiatric Nursing and a Master of Arts in Addiction Counseling. I have worked in nursing for 27 years. I do immigration psychological evaluations too. I have worked in civilian and military nursing positions and was stationed at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, DC. I am a Gulf War Era veteran.
Accepting new patients at my faith-based practice. Licensed as a Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatry/APRN with NY and KS. Educational degrees background consists of: Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP); Master of Science in Mental Health Psychiatric Nursing and a Master of Arts in Addiction Counseling. I have worked in nursing for 27 years. I do immigration psychological evaluations too. I have worked in civilian and military nursing positions and was stationed at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, DC. I am a Gulf War Era veteran.
(516) 563-4867 View (516) 563-4867
Photo of Online Psychiatrist in Manalapan, Florida, Psychiatrist in Brooklyn, NY
Online Psychiatrist in Manalapan, Florida
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11230  (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in New York City. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in New York City. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar.
(718) 215-9398 View (718) 215-9398
Photo of Christina L Persaud, Psychiatrist in Brooklyn, NY
Christina L Persaud
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11249  (Online Only)
My goal is to help you improve your quality of life through the right combination of medications and therapy. My therapy style combines elements of psychodynamic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), mindfulness, and supportive therapy…along with the appropriate doses of sensitivity, empathy and humor.
My goal is to help you improve your quality of life through the right combination of medications and therapy. My therapy style combines elements of psychodynamic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), mindfulness, and supportive therapy…along with the appropriate doses of sensitivity, empathy and humor.
(646) 956-5955 View (646) 956-5955
Photo of S. Shane Konrad, Psychiatrist in Brooklyn, NY
S. Shane Konrad
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11249
"Owning our story can be hard but not nearly as difficult as spending our lives running from it. Embracing our vulnerabilities is risky but not nearly as dangerous as giving up on love and belonging and joy--the experiences that make us the most vulnerable. Only when we are brave enough to explore the darkness will we discover the infinite power of our light." --Dr. Brené Brown. I could not have said it better myself. Our inner resistance to facing our fears and vulnerabilities includes the initial resistance to reach out for help.
"Owning our story can be hard but not nearly as difficult as spending our lives running from it. Embracing our vulnerabilities is risky but not nearly as dangerous as giving up on love and belonging and joy--the experiences that make us the most vulnerable. Only when we are brave enough to explore the darkness will we discover the infinite power of our light." --Dr. Brené Brown. I could not have said it better myself. Our inner resistance to facing our fears and vulnerabilities includes the initial resistance to reach out for help.
(347) 334-6115 View (347) 334-6115
Photo of Tracy Roth, Psychiatrist in Brooklyn, NY
Tracy Roth
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11215
Feeling depressed, anxious and stuck in unsatisfying thought and behavior patterns can feel very isolating. Working together in psychotherapy or psychoanalysis gives us the opportunity to take a closer look at your feelings for a fuller understanding of who you are and how your mind works. Through our exploration, we will develop more flexible ways for you to approach challenges, leading to greater satisfaction in your life.
Feeling depressed, anxious and stuck in unsatisfying thought and behavior patterns can feel very isolating. Working together in psychotherapy or psychoanalysis gives us the opportunity to take a closer look at your feelings for a fuller understanding of who you are and how your mind works. Through our exploration, we will develop more flexible ways for you to approach challenges, leading to greater satisfaction in your life.
(347) 763-6065 View (347) 763-6065
Photo of Nahil Chohan, Psychiatrist in Brooklyn, NY
Nahil Chohan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11211
Did life take an unexpected turn? Are you feeling frustrated or having difficulty with relationships, work, or school? Are you struggling with anxiety, stress, or unhappiness? We have all gone through uncertainties in our lives. You are not alone. Come and let’s talk about anything on your mind. I will take the time to listen. We will explore your life-present and past. We will understand your core self. I will help you embrace your unique identity.
Did life take an unexpected turn? Are you feeling frustrated or having difficulty with relationships, work, or school? Are you struggling with anxiety, stress, or unhappiness? We have all gone through uncertainties in our lives. You are not alone. Come and let’s talk about anything on your mind. I will take the time to listen. We will explore your life-present and past. We will understand your core self. I will help you embrace your unique identity.
(929) 930-4714 View (929) 930-4714
Photo of Justin Shaw, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Brooklyn, NY
Justin Shaw
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, NPP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11205  (Online Only)
I offer inclusive & affirming psychiatric & addiction services online, at your convenience via our HIPAA compliant Telehealth. I have spent the last 7 years providing care for all mental health and substance use disorders. Utilizing psychotherapy (REBT/CBT/DBT/MI). We aim to improve the wellbeing of our clients by providing the most advanced, compassionate, evidence-based mental healthcare. We provide a full continuum of psychiatric & addiction services online, at your convenience! BWC can accommodate a range of treatment options - talk therapy, medication management, or a combination.
I offer inclusive & affirming psychiatric & addiction services online, at your convenience via our HIPAA compliant Telehealth. I have spent the last 7 years providing care for all mental health and substance use disorders. Utilizing psychotherapy (REBT/CBT/DBT/MI). We aim to improve the wellbeing of our clients by providing the most advanced, compassionate, evidence-based mental healthcare. We provide a full continuum of psychiatric & addiction services online, at your convenience! BWC can accommodate a range of treatment options - talk therapy, medication management, or a combination.
(646) 846-7248 View (646) 846-7248
Photo of Adriel Gerard, Psychiatrist in Brooklyn, NY
Adriel Gerard
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11242
I bring my sense of humor and upbeat personality to every session, and I am deeply dedicated to working to help you feel better. I'm a board-certified psychiatrist who provides medication management and psychotherapy to adults. We can work together to address your everyday challenges and the issues that cause you stress, fear, and depression. I also provide Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, which works in the "here and now" to address your thought processes and behaviors to help you feel happier. I offer flexible appointment times, including on weekends at my private office in Brooklyn Heights.
I bring my sense of humor and upbeat personality to every session, and I am deeply dedicated to working to help you feel better. I'm a board-certified psychiatrist who provides medication management and psychotherapy to adults. We can work together to address your everyday challenges and the issues that cause you stress, fear, and depression. I also provide Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, which works in the "here and now" to address your thought processes and behaviors to help you feel happier. I offer flexible appointment times, including on weekends at my private office in Brooklyn Heights.
(516) 252-0191 View (516) 252-0191
Photo of Mohammad (Mo) Tavakkoli, Psychiatrist in Brooklyn, NY
Mohammad (Mo) Tavakkoli
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH, MSc
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11249
Dr. Tavakkoli is a New York-based, board-certified psychiatrist with more than 20 years of clinical, public health, and leadership experience. He is currently an Assistant Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Columbia University and is affiliated with Rockland Psychiatric Center. Dr. Tavakkoli has degrees in Medicine and Public Health from Tehran University of Medical Sciences and Global Health and Population from Harvard School of Public Health. He completed his psychiatry residency and chief residency at New York Medical College and has previously served as the Chief of Inpatient Psychiatry and Site Director for medical student edu
Dr. Tavakkoli is a New York-based, board-certified psychiatrist with more than 20 years of clinical, public health, and leadership experience. He is currently an Assistant Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Columbia University and is affiliated with Rockland Psychiatric Center. Dr. Tavakkoli has degrees in Medicine and Public Health from Tehran University of Medical Sciences and Global Health and Population from Harvard School of Public Health. He completed his psychiatry residency and chief residency at New York Medical College and has previously served as the Chief of Inpatient Psychiatry and Site Director for medical student edu
(914) 353-4936 View (914) 353-4936
Photo of TMR Mental Health Care PC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Brooklyn, NY
TMR Mental Health Care PC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, OCN
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11217
TMR is a comprehensive private practice. We offer psychopharmacology and psychotherapy to people of all ages. We offer psychotherapy to individuals, couples, and families. Our staff consists of a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Psychotherapists (Licensed Clinical Social Workers and Professional Counselors), Nutritionist, and Clinical Psychologists who perform psychological testing and evaluations.
TMR is a comprehensive private practice. We offer psychopharmacology and psychotherapy to people of all ages. We offer psychotherapy to individuals, couples, and families. Our staff consists of a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Psychotherapists (Licensed Clinical Social Workers and Professional Counselors), Nutritionist, and Clinical Psychologists who perform psychological testing and evaluations.
(551) 249-9701 View (551) 249-9701
Bipolar Disorder Psychiatrists

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.