Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Englewood Cliffs, NJ

Photo of Adrianna Porcaro, MSW, LSW
Adrianna Porcaro
Licensed Social Worker, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632
Daytime Availability Only! EMDR trained and accepting new daytime availability clients only! I have vast experience working with trauma as well as a variety of different issues such as depression, anxiety, grief, ADHD, body image issues, and more. Therapy is a commitment to yourself and that is a commitment I strive to honor by helping you achieve your goals. As clients, you are in control and I encourage you to utilize your voice.
Daytime Availability Only! EMDR trained and accepting new daytime availability clients only! I have vast experience working with trauma as well as a variety of different issues such as depression, anxiety, grief, ADHD, body image issues, and more. Therapy is a commitment to yourself and that is a commitment I strive to honor by helping you achieve your goals. As clients, you are in control and I encourage you to utilize your voice.
(201) 389-5463 View (201) 389-5463
Photo of Alison Prince Hammonds, LCSW, BCD, LPC, FAPA, ATR-BC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alison Prince Hammonds
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD, LPC, FAPA, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632
My 30+ years of experience enable me to treat a variety of populations and cultures. My degrees in the disciplines of clinical psychology, clinical social work and clinical art therapy allow me the opportunity to utilize many treatment interventions as I assist people to help and empower themselves. My work is collaborative and interactive and includes involvement in all systems associated with the patient as necessary. From the difficult to treat child and adolescent, to the adult facing divorce, occupational crisis, or life re-evaluation, our work together is goal oriented. Consultant & certified EMDR therapist treating trauma.
My 30+ years of experience enable me to treat a variety of populations and cultures. My degrees in the disciplines of clinical psychology, clinical social work and clinical art therapy allow me the opportunity to utilize many treatment interventions as I assist people to help and empower themselves. My work is collaborative and interactive and includes involvement in all systems associated with the patient as necessary. From the difficult to treat child and adolescent, to the adult facing divorce, occupational crisis, or life re-evaluation, our work together is goal oriented. Consultant & certified EMDR therapist treating trauma.
(201) 688-7267 View (201) 688-7267
Photo of Patricia Ann Mahmarian, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patricia Ann Mahmarian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632
I believe in the inherent strength we all have within us to work to overcome adversity in our lives. If you, a family member of any age, or someone you may know are struggling with depression, anxiety, family dynamic challenges, or any life stressor that is keeping you from living the authentic and happy life you deserve, I am here to give you the help and guidance needed to overcome those obstacles and challenges. Sometimes adversity is a call to action to make changes in our lives we are all capable of doing with commitment and effort. The choice to ask for help is a choice made in strength, and I will guide you on your journey!
I believe in the inherent strength we all have within us to work to overcome adversity in our lives. If you, a family member of any age, or someone you may know are struggling with depression, anxiety, family dynamic challenges, or any life stressor that is keeping you from living the authentic and happy life you deserve, I am here to give you the help and guidance needed to overcome those obstacles and challenges. Sometimes adversity is a call to action to make changes in our lives we are all capable of doing with commitment and effort. The choice to ask for help is a choice made in strength, and I will guide you on your journey!
(201) 984-1573 View (201) 984-1573
Photo of Dr. Shawnda McEwen - InnerBeauty Psychotherapy & Consulting Services , DSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
InnerBeauty Psychotherapy & Consulting Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632
As a Psychotherapist, I believe that everyone already has the tools they need to be their most productive and successful self. Sometimes people just need the support and encouragement from an outside source to reach their personal "happy place". Every patient has a right to Self-Determination and Self-Awareness. Psychotherapy can help develop insight, coping mechanisms, and social skills to help us build stronger relationships.
As a Psychotherapist, I believe that everyone already has the tools they need to be their most productive and successful self. Sometimes people just need the support and encouragement from an outside source to reach their personal "happy place". Every patient has a right to Self-Determination and Self-Awareness. Psychotherapy can help develop insight, coping mechanisms, and social skills to help us build stronger relationships.
(201) 379-6420 View (201) 379-6420
Photo of Leyla Mata - True Balance Wellness Group, MA, EdM, LPC, Counselor
True Balance Wellness Group
Counselor, MA, EdM, LPC
Verified Verified
Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632  (Online Only)
A famous greek philosopher once said "Nothing endures but change." As your therapist, I provide comfort and professional guidance throughout your everchanging journey. I believe that therapy consists of a collaboration of effort between both the therapist and the client. I work diligently to foster trust in the therapeutic relationship while proactively guiding you on your path to healing and increased understanding.
A famous greek philosopher once said "Nothing endures but change." As your therapist, I provide comfort and professional guidance throughout your everchanging journey. I believe that therapy consists of a collaboration of effort between both the therapist and the client. I work diligently to foster trust in the therapeutic relationship while proactively guiding you on your path to healing and increased understanding.
(201) 987-7164 View (201) 987-7164
Photo of Angelina Valentin - Valentin Counseling Services, LLC, MSS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Valentin Counseling Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Angelina. I go beyond labels to focus on the individual, taking a holistic, person-centered approach to treatment. I specialize working with individuals experiencing major life transitions, trauma, grief/loss and scary but exciting new beginnings. I help individuals discover the great wisdom and truth that they have already hidden within them! No matter where in your life you are struggling, together we will establish a personalized care plan. With compassion, experience, skill, and a bit of humor; I aim to help my clients get out of their own way and achieve greater satisfaction with their life and relationships.
Hello! My name is Angelina. I go beyond labels to focus on the individual, taking a holistic, person-centered approach to treatment. I specialize working with individuals experiencing major life transitions, trauma, grief/loss and scary but exciting new beginnings. I help individuals discover the great wisdom and truth that they have already hidden within them! No matter where in your life you are struggling, together we will establish a personalized care plan. With compassion, experience, skill, and a bit of humor; I aim to help my clients get out of their own way and achieve greater satisfaction with their life and relationships.
(201) 431-0565 View (201) 431-0565
Photo of Christina Lee, MS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632
I believe we all need unconditional support and compassionate understanding in navigating through life's unpredictable journey. I promote an empathic and positive therapeutic relationship between client and clinician that is respectful of the client's strengths and right to self-determination and encourages healing, self-awareness, and self-care. I also challenge the client to think out-of-the-box and explore the possibilities for growth and change in one's own thinking and circumstances. I am culturally sensitive and tailor therapy to the individual needs of the client as there is no one-size-fits-all therapeutic modality.
I believe we all need unconditional support and compassionate understanding in navigating through life's unpredictable journey. I promote an empathic and positive therapeutic relationship between client and clinician that is respectful of the client's strengths and right to self-determination and encourages healing, self-awareness, and self-care. I also challenge the client to think out-of-the-box and explore the possibilities for growth and change in one's own thinking and circumstances. I am culturally sensitive and tailor therapy to the individual needs of the client as there is no one-size-fits-all therapeutic modality.
(201) 345-7453 View (201) 345-7453
Valerie Hava Finkel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632
Not accepting new clients
I am an experienced therapist with a keen sensitivity to my clients' needs, and a deep understanding of their issues. I work with a diverse clientele, and I help my clients manage a wide spectrum of situations that arise in their lives. People come when they are overwhelmed, stressed out, experiencing work issues, marriage troubles, school problems, etc. I work with them to teach them new skills, or to help them realize that they have the skills they need, but are not using them in the most advantageous way. This process of learning and change is the essence of psychotherapy.
I am an experienced therapist with a keen sensitivity to my clients' needs, and a deep understanding of their issues. I work with a diverse clientele, and I help my clients manage a wide spectrum of situations that arise in their lives. People come when they are overwhelmed, stressed out, experiencing work issues, marriage troubles, school problems, etc. I work with them to teach them new skills, or to help them realize that they have the skills they need, but are not using them in the most advantageous way. This process of learning and change is the essence of psychotherapy.
(201) 817-2114 View (201) 817-2114

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Richard Smith, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Richard Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Englewood, NJ 07631
Richard is licensed by the State of New Jersey as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and is a National Board Certified Counselor (NBCC). Richard has over eight years of experience working with a wide range of adults and families in the mental health field settings at the Outpatient, Intensive Outpatient, Residential, Intensive In-Community Settings. Richard has experience with various issues, including Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Grief, Stress, Substance Abuse, Peer Relationships, Anger Management, Men’s Issues, and Domestic Violence.
Richard is licensed by the State of New Jersey as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and is a National Board Certified Counselor (NBCC). Richard has over eight years of experience working with a wide range of adults and families in the mental health field settings at the Outpatient, Intensive Outpatient, Residential, Intensive In-Community Settings. Richard has experience with various issues, including Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Grief, Stress, Substance Abuse, Peer Relationships, Anger Management, Men’s Issues, and Domestic Violence.
(551) 377-3509 View (551) 377-3509
Photo of Dr. Stacey Cohen-Meissner, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Stacey Cohen-Meissner
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Englewood, NJ 07631
I work to help my clients achieve their optimal state of achievement, comfort, and happiness. I use cognitive and behavioral therapy techniques in a supportive environment to assist my clients in overcoming anxiety, depression, bipolar symptoms, and obsessive compulsive behaviors, eating disorders, among other issues. I also conduct various types of psychological evaluations, including: forensic psychological evaluations, immigration exemption evaluations, adoption assessments, and clearance for bariatric and spinal cord surgeries.
I work to help my clients achieve their optimal state of achievement, comfort, and happiness. I use cognitive and behavioral therapy techniques in a supportive environment to assist my clients in overcoming anxiety, depression, bipolar symptoms, and obsessive compulsive behaviors, eating disorders, among other issues. I also conduct various types of psychological evaluations, including: forensic psychological evaluations, immigration exemption evaluations, adoption assessments, and clearance for bariatric and spinal cord surgeries.
(201) 877-5483 View (201) 877-5483
Photo of Susan S. Turkenkopf - Susan S. Turkenkopf, MSW, LCSW, CGP, MSW, LCSW, CGP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan S. Turkenkopf, MSW, LCSW, CGP
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CGP
Verified Verified
Fort Lee, NJ 07024  (Online Only)
I, Susan S. Turkenkopf, MSW, LCSW, CGP, deal with the following issues and symptoms in my Private Practice: ADHD, Asperger's Syndrome, Eating Disorders/Body Image, Internet/Online Problems, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Adolescent-Parent/Authority Difficulties, School Phobia/School Refusal/Separation, Learning Disabilities, Self-Esteem/Confidence,Gay/Lesbian/Gender/SexualityDivorce/Marital Issues, Bipolar Disorder, Anger Management, Social Anxiety, Substance Abuse Depression/Anxiety/Panic Disorder, Separation Anxiety Disdorder, Personality Disorders, Sleep Issues, Smoking/Addictions, Available Weekends COVID low fee available
I, Susan S. Turkenkopf, MSW, LCSW, CGP, deal with the following issues and symptoms in my Private Practice: ADHD, Asperger's Syndrome, Eating Disorders/Body Image, Internet/Online Problems, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Adolescent-Parent/Authority Difficulties, School Phobia/School Refusal/Separation, Learning Disabilities, Self-Esteem/Confidence,Gay/Lesbian/Gender/SexualityDivorce/Marital Issues, Bipolar Disorder, Anger Management, Social Anxiety, Substance Abuse Depression/Anxiety/Panic Disorder, Separation Anxiety Disdorder, Personality Disorders, Sleep Issues, Smoking/Addictions, Available Weekends COVID low fee available
(551) 209-3661 View (551) 209-3661
Photo of Lina Mendez - Footprints to Feel Better, LMHC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Footprints to Feel Better
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMHC
Verified Verified
Leonia, NJ 07605
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.
Rize-Up Together was started by three women of The Bronx who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities where 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. Rize-Up Together 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.
Rize-Up Together was started by three women of The Bronx who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities where 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. Rize-Up Together 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.
(718) 550-8535 View (718) 550-8535
Photo of Edward H Callaghan, PhD, Psychologist
Edward H Callaghan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Englewood, NJ 07631
In addition to these areas, I am also highly experienced in treating adults and children with bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety disorders, personality disorders, psychosis, and trauma.
Hi! My name is Dr. Ed Callaghan. I have a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and am fully licensed in the state of New Jersey. I am the co-founder of the Integrative Therapy Institute of NJ and it’s Director of Child Services. I specialize in working with preschool and school-age children as well as adolescents and adults. I am especially proficient at working with children with ADHD, behavioral problems, and school-related difficulties--especially problems related to poor school performance, distractibility, and motivation/drive. I am also VERY SUCCESSFUL at bridging conflictual relationships between teens and their parents.
In addition to these areas, I am also highly experienced in treating adults and children with bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety disorders, personality disorders, psychosis, and trauma.
Hi! My name is Dr. Ed Callaghan. I have a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and am fully licensed in the state of New Jersey. I am the co-founder of the Integrative Therapy Institute of NJ and it’s Director of Child Services. I specialize in working with preschool and school-age children as well as adolescents and adults. I am especially proficient at working with children with ADHD, behavioral problems, and school-related difficulties--especially problems related to poor school performance, distractibility, and motivation/drive. I am also VERY SUCCESSFUL at bridging conflictual relationships between teens and their parents.
(201) 831-7666 View (201) 831-7666
Photo of Assaf Amos, MSW, LCSW, LCADC, ACS, CCS, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Assaf Amos
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MSW, LCSW, LCADC, ACS, CCS
Verified Verified
Englewood, NJ 07631
I deal with a variety of issues including Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Personality disorders, Mood disorders, Sexual Abuse, Trauma and PTSD, Relationship Issues, Self Esteem, Self-Harming, and LGBTQ and Sexual Development Issues.
I am dually licensed LCSW, LCADC and a graduate of Rutgers University where I obtained my Masters in Social Work along with specialized training and a certificate in Addictions Counseling. I am a firm believer in building a therapeutic relationship which is based upon providing positive and client centered empathy and care in a nonrestrictive and culturally safe environment. My primary objective is to provide a comfortable and life changing experience through the change process of mental health wellness and/or addictions recovery.
I deal with a variety of issues including Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Personality disorders, Mood disorders, Sexual Abuse, Trauma and PTSD, Relationship Issues, Self Esteem, Self-Harming, and LGBTQ and Sexual Development Issues.
I am dually licensed LCSW, LCADC and a graduate of Rutgers University where I obtained my Masters in Social Work along with specialized training and a certificate in Addictions Counseling. I am a firm believer in building a therapeutic relationship which is based upon providing positive and client centered empathy and care in a nonrestrictive and culturally safe environment. My primary objective is to provide a comfortable and life changing experience through the change process of mental health wellness and/or addictions recovery.
(201) 419-6441 View (201) 419-6441
Photo of Ofra Markowitz, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ofra Markowitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Englewood, NJ 07631
My name is Ofra Markowitz and I'm a licensed clinical social worker specializing in individual, couples and family therapy. Since I started my studies and thereafter, I have immersed myself in understanding the link between the gut and brain systems, and their effects on behaviors. I have worked with adolescent children and adults in inpatient psychiatric units, school settings, and currently In private practice.
My name is Ofra Markowitz and I'm a licensed clinical social worker specializing in individual, couples and family therapy. Since I started my studies and thereafter, I have immersed myself in understanding the link between the gut and brain systems, and their effects on behaviors. I have worked with adolescent children and adults in inpatient psychiatric units, school settings, and currently In private practice.
(917) 746-0898 View (917) 746-0898
Photo of Iris Sher, PsyD, Psychologist
Iris Sher
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Englewood, NJ 07631  (Online Only)
Have you been feeling that life has become a struggle? Have you faced a traumatic or life changing event? Whatever the reason, the decision to see a therapist and talk about these issues can be difficult. Contacting a psychologist can be the first courageous step in a process of growth and healing. I am a licensed psychologist with 14 years of experience helping people deal with depression, anxiety, adjustment to life changes, immigration and acculturation, marital problems, aging, caregiving, and loss.
Have you been feeling that life has become a struggle? Have you faced a traumatic or life changing event? Whatever the reason, the decision to see a therapist and talk about these issues can be difficult. Contacting a psychologist can be the first courageous step in a process of growth and healing. I am a licensed psychologist with 14 years of experience helping people deal with depression, anxiety, adjustment to life changes, immigration and acculturation, marital problems, aging, caregiving, and loss.
(201) 347-0536 View (201) 347-0536
Photo of Samuel Eli Menahem, PhD, Psychologist
Samuel Eli Menahem
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Lee, NJ 07024
I have a Spiritual/psychological approach. See my new book, "The Great Cosmic Lesson Plan."I believe we are all connected to each other via a higher power.thus-there is a constant mind body spirit interplay-through which we create our lives. I integrate cognitive therapy, meditation, hypnosis, prayer and humor into the therapy. all human beings have "issues." We all have some guilt, anger and fear. The essence of therapy is learning how to "let go," enabling us to become happier. we are more attuned to the higher power. My ideal client would be open to letting go.
I have a Spiritual/psychological approach. See my new book, "The Great Cosmic Lesson Plan."I believe we are all connected to each other via a higher power.thus-there is a constant mind body spirit interplay-through which we create our lives. I integrate cognitive therapy, meditation, hypnosis, prayer and humor into the therapy. all human beings have "issues." We all have some guilt, anger and fear. The essence of therapy is learning how to "let go," enabling us to become happier. we are more attuned to the higher power. My ideal client would be open to letting go.
(201) 345-4690 View (201) 345-4690
Photo of Judith H Gurfein - Arista Psychological & Psychiatric Services, PhD, ABPP, APRN, BC, Psychologist
Arista Psychological & Psychiatric Services
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP, APRN, BC
Verified Verified
Englewood, NJ 07631
ARISTA is a private mental health and chemical dependency practice which has been serving Manhattan and Bergen County, New Jersey, for over 25 years. Our health care professionals include licensed psychiatrists, psychologists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, clinical social workers, and counselors with expertise in marriage, family, adults, teens, children, hypnotherapy and addictions. Arista's warm, highly qualified psychotherapists will ensure that you receive individualized care in a comfortable, confidential setting. Our goal is to match you with a therapist who has achieved success with patients who have problems similar to yours.
ARISTA is a private mental health and chemical dependency practice which has been serving Manhattan and Bergen County, New Jersey, for over 25 years. Our health care professionals include licensed psychiatrists, psychologists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, clinical social workers, and counselors with expertise in marriage, family, adults, teens, children, hypnotherapy and addictions. Arista's warm, highly qualified psychotherapists will ensure that you receive individualized care in a comfortable, confidential setting. Our goal is to match you with a therapist who has achieved success with patients who have problems similar to yours.
(201) 254-0619 View (201) 254-0619
Photo of Lisa D'Acierno And Associates, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa D'Acierno And Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Teaneck, NJ 07666
We are a private practice made up of psychotherapists who work with children, adolescents, and adults of all ages. Lisa D'Acierno and her staff work to provide a safe nurturing, non-judgmental atmosphere focusing on the individual client's needs. She has been practicing for over 25 years. Our staff is experienced on children and adolescents with PTSD, ADHD, Asperger's/Autism Spectrum, Depression,Teen Issues, Anxiety Disorders, OCD, Family Struggles, and Trauma. We are a wonderful team of compassionate and caring professionals who share the same passion for helping others. We offer in-person and teletherapy sessions.
We are a private practice made up of psychotherapists who work with children, adolescents, and adults of all ages. Lisa D'Acierno and her staff work to provide a safe nurturing, non-judgmental atmosphere focusing on the individual client's needs. She has been practicing for over 25 years. Our staff is experienced on children and adolescents with PTSD, ADHD, Asperger's/Autism Spectrum, Depression,Teen Issues, Anxiety Disorders, OCD, Family Struggles, and Trauma. We are a wonderful team of compassionate and caring professionals who share the same passion for helping others. We offer in-person and teletherapy sessions.
(201) 977-4060 View (201) 977-4060
Photo of Katya Chizhova, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katya Chizhova
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fort Lee, NJ 07024
I work with people suffering from various mental health conditions: depression, anxiety, panic attacks, mood disorders, or grieving a loss. In my 25 years as a therapist, I have worked with patients from diverse cultural, racial, and socio-economic backgrounds. In the recent years, my focus has been psychotherapy, support and psycho-education for people with acute or chronic medical conditions. The achievements of modern medicine do not replace attention to potentially devastating psychological effects of being sick, yet doctors often overlook or ignore them, leaving us to cope with fear, loneliness, and critical decisions to make.
I work with people suffering from various mental health conditions: depression, anxiety, panic attacks, mood disorders, or grieving a loss. In my 25 years as a therapist, I have worked with patients from diverse cultural, racial, and socio-economic backgrounds. In the recent years, my focus has been psychotherapy, support and psycho-education for people with acute or chronic medical conditions. The achievements of modern medicine do not replace attention to potentially devastating psychological effects of being sick, yet doctors often overlook or ignore them, leaving us to cope with fear, loneliness, and critical decisions to make.
(201) 565-3799 View (201) 565-3799

See more therapy options for Englewood Cliffs

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.