CBT Therapy

[Honeydip296]

I am a 34 year old female who is suffering from bipolar disorder and it has come to a point where it is interfering with me being able to progress in life in all aspects, work, relationships so on...I have tried medication and regular therapy but do not agree with being controlled by medication...for me this suppresses the problem but does not help to cure it. In my search for alternative therapies I read about Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and feel that this is exactly what I need. I am really concerned about what might happen if I do not get the proper help soon and would like to know what avenues are available for me in NYC  to receive this therapy since my insurance is through medicaid?

[looloo141]

Hello I live in the Uk, I have bipolar too and my pyschiatric nurse has referred me for CBT, I am being assessed in a few days, from what I have been told I will have 3 appointments with the therapist so that we can assess if it will help me.. I think that is quite good, over 3 sessions we should be able to asscertain how effective it will be, I am little worried that it might open a can of worms but we will see!

I will let you know how it goes if you like?

[Peter Forster]

CBT seems to be more effective for the depressive cycles than for the hypomanic or manic ones. For the depressive cycles it is about as effective as medication for all but the most severe episodes. Interpersonal Social Rhythm Therapy is the only therapy that has been shown to have some benefits in terms of reducing number of hypomanic or manic episodes.

[Honeydip296]

With CBT therapy how effective do you know it to be with Bipolar disorder?

[Peter Forster]

Dear Honeydip296,
I am afraid that I don't have any information about what kind of coverage is provided through Medicaid and how to access that coverage in the various states - it is a moving target, I am afraid. Perhaps someone else on this forum might have some information?