Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Fanwood, NJ

Photo of Alex Lesaski, LPC, LCADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alex Lesaski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
Fanwood, NJ 07023
Alex has clinical experience with people seeking therapy for substance abuse issues, co-occurring mental health issues, adjustment and life transitions, relationship issues, family issues, and personal/professional growth and development. He has experience working with adults of all ages in individual and group therapy. Alex believes it is important for the client to feel supported, heard, and understood but also challenged to figure out their own path through the therapeutic process. He believes addressing issues in therapy can help people make real changes in their lives and gain more insight and awareness in who they are.
Alex has clinical experience with people seeking therapy for substance abuse issues, co-occurring mental health issues, adjustment and life transitions, relationship issues, family issues, and personal/professional growth and development. He has experience working with adults of all ages in individual and group therapy. Alex believes it is important for the client to feel supported, heard, and understood but also challenged to figure out their own path through the therapeutic process. He believes addressing issues in therapy can help people make real changes in their lives and gain more insight and awareness in who they are.
(908) 663-5816 View (908) 663-5816
Photo of Nathalie Concepcion, MSW, LCSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nathalie Concepcion
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
Fanwood, NJ 07023
After 20+ years as a couple's therapist (28 years in the mental health industry) those that know me describe me as many things. Causer of transformation, author (The Hijacked Brain) Energy Healer, teacher, leader and all around lover of life. But 10 years ago, I faced a reality that shook my foundation, caused me unspeakable sorrow, confusion and a sense of brokenness. I had to put to the test every clinical and spiritual principle in my toolbox. This is when I dove into energy work and discovered new ways to alchemize my clinical training and my personal experience into the tools and practices that I now share with my clients.
After 20+ years as a couple's therapist (28 years in the mental health industry) those that know me describe me as many things. Causer of transformation, author (The Hijacked Brain) Energy Healer, teacher, leader and all around lover of life. But 10 years ago, I faced a reality that shook my foundation, caused me unspeakable sorrow, confusion and a sense of brokenness. I had to put to the test every clinical and spiritual principle in my toolbox. This is when I dove into energy work and discovered new ways to alchemize my clinical training and my personal experience into the tools and practices that I now share with my clients.
(908) 460-7194 View (908) 460-7194
Photo of Peter G. Vosseler - Voss's Corner Counseling Center, LLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Voss's Corner Counseling Center, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fanwood, NJ 07023
"Restore Harmony & Peace Within" We offer individual and family counseling and supportive services utilizing a strengths and empowerment approach that focuses on cognitive-behavioral therapeutic techniques. We counsel clients from pre-adolescence through adulthood. Our practice focuses in treating adults with depression/major depression, bi-polar disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, anger and stress management difficulties, gay/lesbian factors and substance abuse issues. It is of utmost importance to assist the client in restructuring thought processes while stressing the power of positive thinking for positive results.
"Restore Harmony & Peace Within" We offer individual and family counseling and supportive services utilizing a strengths and empowerment approach that focuses on cognitive-behavioral therapeutic techniques. We counsel clients from pre-adolescence through adulthood. Our practice focuses in treating adults with depression/major depression, bi-polar disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, anger and stress management difficulties, gay/lesbian factors and substance abuse issues. It is of utmost importance to assist the client in restructuring thought processes while stressing the power of positive thinking for positive results.
(908) 280-0537 View (908) 280-0537
Photo of Lidia D Abrams - Resolve Community Counseling Center, Inc, PhD
Resolve Community Counseling Center, Inc
PhD
Verified Verified
Fanwood, NJ 07023
Resolve Community Counseling Center offers the services of 14 masters' and doctoral level mental health clinicians (LPCs, LAC's, LCADC's, PsyD), under the supervision of a licensed psychologist. We work with families and children of all ages, couples and adults experiencing a variety of mental health challenges. We also carry out psychological evaluations for clinical and forensic purposes. With our large clinical staff, we are able to accommodate the needs of most every person seeking assistance. We are a private nonprofit agency, with a mission to help our community members with low cost but quality, confidential and caring mental health services.
Resolve Community Counseling Center offers the services of 14 masters' and doctoral level mental health clinicians (LPCs, LAC's, LCADC's, PsyD), under the supervision of a licensed psychologist. We work with families and children of all ages, couples and adults experiencing a variety of mental health challenges. We also carry out psychological evaluations for clinical and forensic purposes. With our large clinical staff, we are able to accommodate the needs of most every person seeking assistance. We are a private nonprofit agency, with a mission to help our community members with low cost but quality, confidential and caring mental health services.
(908) 365-1160 View (908) 365-1160
Photo of Gwendolyn L Shapiro, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gwendolyn L Shapiro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fanwood, NJ 07023
Not accepting new clients
If a deep dive meant transformation, would you be willing? Dipping in one toe at a time until you felt safe in the therapeutic relationship to take the plunge? Have you had a sense that your younger selves have things to share with you, that they are ready for you to release them from the confines of core beliefs born out of trauma, no matter how big or little it seems? If you are curious about what inner child work, exploring and understanding with compassion all of your parts, reparenting, and EMDR can do for you, let's connect. We are partners. www.healingwithgwen.com. IG healing.with.gwen
If a deep dive meant transformation, would you be willing? Dipping in one toe at a time until you felt safe in the therapeutic relationship to take the plunge? Have you had a sense that your younger selves have things to share with you, that they are ready for you to release them from the confines of core beliefs born out of trauma, no matter how big or little it seems? If you are curious about what inner child work, exploring and understanding with compassion all of your parts, reparenting, and EMDR can do for you, let's connect. We are partners. www.healingwithgwen.com. IG healing.with.gwen
(732) 272-0895 View (732) 272-0895

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Richard Smith, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Richard Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Scotch Plains, NJ 07076
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.
(908) 460-8325 View (908) 460-8325
Photo of Brittany Dillard, MA,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brittany Dillard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Scotch Plains, NJ 07076
Brittany is particularly passionate about helping those struggling with alcohol and drug use, as well as individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder.
Brittany Dillard, LPC, is dedicated to helping adults in New Jersey overcome life’s challenges and develop effective coping skills. At LifeStance Health, Brittany provides individualized care with a focus on building a collaborative therapeutic relationship. She works closely with her clients to identify their unique needs and goals, guiding them towards greater emotional wellbeing through personalized treatment plans. Brittany’s supportive and empathetic approach makes her a trusted resource for individuals seeking to improve their mental health.
Brittany is particularly passionate about helping those struggling with alcohol and drug use, as well as individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder.
Brittany Dillard, LPC, is dedicated to helping adults in New Jersey overcome life’s challenges and develop effective coping skills. At LifeStance Health, Brittany provides individualized care with a focus on building a collaborative therapeutic relationship. She works closely with her clients to identify their unique needs and goals, guiding them towards greater emotional wellbeing through personalized treatment plans. Brittany’s supportive and empathetic approach makes her a trusted resource for individuals seeking to improve their mental health.
(855) 417-5683 View (855) 417-5683
Photo of Richard Smith, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Richard Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
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.
(908) 258-6462 View (908) 258-6462
Photo of Richard Smith, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Richard Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Scotch Plains, NJ 07076
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.
(732) 387-6668 View (732) 387-6668
Photo of Michael D Zito, PhD, Psychologist
Michael D Zito
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Plainfield, NJ 07060
He authored various book chapters and publications on topics such as ADHD, Pediatric Bipolar, and Sport Psychology.
Michael D. Zito, Ph.D. is a New Jersey Licensed Psychologist #3599 and owner of Morristown Clinical and Sport Psychology with offices in Morristown and Watchung. In his clinical practice, he provides individual, marital, family and group therapy and assessments to children, adolescents and adults. In his work with children and adolescents, he utilizes a comprehensive approach by also providing parenting strategies to support his therapy work. Dr. Zito's therapeutic intervention reflects an eclectic and strategic (research supported) blend of cognitive behavioral, family systems, positive psychology and psychodynamic perspectives along with an understanding of biological contributions.
He authored various book chapters and publications on topics such as ADHD, Pediatric Bipolar, and Sport Psychology.
Michael D. Zito, Ph.D. is a New Jersey Licensed Psychologist #3599 and owner of Morristown Clinical and Sport Psychology with offices in Morristown and Watchung. In his clinical practice, he provides individual, marital, family and group therapy and assessments to children, adolescents and adults. In his work with children and adolescents, he utilizes a comprehensive approach by also providing parenting strategies to support his therapy work. Dr. Zito's therapeutic intervention reflects an eclectic and strategic (research supported) blend of cognitive behavioral, family systems, positive psychology and psychodynamic perspectives along with an understanding of biological contributions.
(908) 332-0890 View (908) 332-0890
Photo of Steven Sussman - Child & Teen Success Center, PhD, Psychologist
Child & Teen Success Center
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mountainside, NJ 07092  (Online Only)
My practice is a devoted exclusively to children ages 5-17. Attention Deficit Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Asperger's & Autistic Spectrum Disorder, BiPolar Disorder and School Underachievement are my specialties. Social skills, parenting issues and sibling rivalry are additional areas of focus. I also specialize in treating children who have had past treatment failures. Lastly, with parental permission I consult with the child's school to assure the child's interests are best served. I offer a free 45-60 minute phone consultation to see if I am a good match for your child.
My practice is a devoted exclusively to children ages 5-17. Attention Deficit Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Asperger's & Autistic Spectrum Disorder, BiPolar Disorder and School Underachievement are my specialties. Social skills, parenting issues and sibling rivalry are additional areas of focus. I also specialize in treating children who have had past treatment failures. Lastly, with parental permission I consult with the child's school to assure the child's interests are best served. I offer a free 45-60 minute phone consultation to see if I am a good match for your child.
(908) 264-2770 View (908) 264-2770
Photo of Sydnee VanDyke, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sydnee VanDyke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
I thrive when working with young women. Whether they’re struggling with school-related stress or struggling to process a breakup, I can quickly build rapport with folks in this demographic. My treatment plans include goals dedicated to helping people identify their triggers for emotional dysregulation. I believe in the importance of somatic and cognitive level wellness strategies and work to have my clients learn and implement both sets of skills. I have enjoyed working with a variety of diagnoses, including adjustment disorder, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD.
I thrive when working with young women. Whether they’re struggling with school-related stress or struggling to process a breakup, I can quickly build rapport with folks in this demographic. My treatment plans include goals dedicated to helping people identify their triggers for emotional dysregulation. I believe in the importance of somatic and cognitive level wellness strategies and work to have my clients learn and implement both sets of skills. I have enjoyed working with a variety of diagnoses, including adjustment disorder, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD.
(908) 680-0414 View (908) 680-0414
Photo of Barbara Couvadelli, PhD, Psychologist
Barbara Couvadelli
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
Couvadelli has expertise in treating mood disorders (anxiety, depression, bipolar), insomnia, social and behavioral issues.
Dr. Couvadelli is an adult and pediatric Neuropsychologist/Psychologist with areas of expertise in clinical neuropsychology, cognitive rehabilitation and health psychology. Dr. Couvadelli obtained her PhD in Behavioral Medicine with a focus on Cognitive Neuroscience. She completed an internship in clinical psychology/neuropsychology, a fellowship in cognitive rehabilitation, and a three-year postdoctoral fellowship in neuropsychology. Dr. Couvadelli has served as the head of Pediatric Neuropsychology at JFK Medical Center, NJ and she holds the appointment of Assistant Professor of Neuroscience at Seton Hall University School of Health/Medical Sciences.
Couvadelli has expertise in treating mood disorders (anxiety, depression, bipolar), insomnia, social and behavioral issues.
Dr. Couvadelli is an adult and pediatric Neuropsychologist/Psychologist with areas of expertise in clinical neuropsychology, cognitive rehabilitation and health psychology. Dr. Couvadelli obtained her PhD in Behavioral Medicine with a focus on Cognitive Neuroscience. She completed an internship in clinical psychology/neuropsychology, a fellowship in cognitive rehabilitation, and a three-year postdoctoral fellowship in neuropsychology. Dr. Couvadelli has served as the head of Pediatric Neuropsychology at JFK Medical Center, NJ and she holds the appointment of Assistant Professor of Neuroscience at Seton Hall University School of Health/Medical Sciences.
(855) 847-7806 View (855) 847-7806
Photo of Dana Allegrino, LPC, Counselor
Dana Allegrino
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Scotch Plains, NJ 07076  (Online Only)
I completed my internship on an inpatient psychiatric unit providing individual and group counseling to those with mental health issues, including, but not limited to: bipolar, depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, substance abuse, and domestic violence.
Educational Background: I earned my Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Montclair State University, and my Bachelor's degree in Psychology, with a minor in Cultural Anthropology. Throughout my graduate and undergraduate internships, I gained experience working with a variety of ages and populations, from children and adults with developmental disabilities, to adults of all ages with chronic mental illness. I have over 10 years of experience in Case Management, as well as supervisory experience in the field of Human and Social Services.
I completed my internship on an inpatient psychiatric unit providing individual and group counseling to those with mental health issues, including, but not limited to: bipolar, depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, substance abuse, and domestic violence.
Educational Background: I earned my Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Montclair State University, and my Bachelor's degree in Psychology, with a minor in Cultural Anthropology. Throughout my graduate and undergraduate internships, I gained experience working with a variety of ages and populations, from children and adults with developmental disabilities, to adults of all ages with chronic mental illness. I have over 10 years of experience in Case Management, as well as supervisory experience in the field of Human and Social Services.
(848) 272-2585 View (848) 272-2585
Photo of Sydnee VanDyke, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sydnee VanDyke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Scotch Plains, NJ 07076
I thrive when working with young women. Whether they’re struggling with school-related stress or struggling to process a breakup, I can quickly build rapport with folks in this demographic. My treatment plans include goals dedicated to helping people identify their triggers for emotional dysregulation. I believe in the importance of somatic and cognitive level wellness strategies and work to have my clients learn and implement both sets of skills. I have enjoyed working with a variety of diagnoses, including adjustment disorder, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD.
I thrive when working with young women. Whether they’re struggling with school-related stress or struggling to process a breakup, I can quickly build rapport with folks in this demographic. My treatment plans include goals dedicated to helping people identify their triggers for emotional dysregulation. I believe in the importance of somatic and cognitive level wellness strategies and work to have my clients learn and implement both sets of skills. I have enjoyed working with a variety of diagnoses, including adjustment disorder, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD.
(908) 388-9545 View (908) 388-9545
Photo of Edward H Callaghan, PhD, Psychologist
Edward H Callaghan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
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.
(908) 388-9286 View (908) 388-9286
Photo of Melissa Wergland, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Wergland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Plainfield, NJ 07062  (Online Only)
I have also helped clients with more serious mental illness including Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder to be able to live more satisfying lives.
Are you struggling and feeling alone and misunderstood? Are you suffering from excessive worrying, or feeling like you have lost hope that things can get better? Maybe you feel that you are not the person you once were, and you want so much to get that person back. Sometimes we go through a period in our lives where we just need a little guidance to get back on our feet. You have already courageously taken the first step by seeking help and that takes strength! I am honored to be a part of this very important journey, to be your guide and companion in this healing process.
I have also helped clients with more serious mental illness including Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder to be able to live more satisfying lives.
Are you struggling and feeling alone and misunderstood? Are you suffering from excessive worrying, or feeling like you have lost hope that things can get better? Maybe you feel that you are not the person you once were, and you want so much to get that person back. Sometimes we go through a period in our lives where we just need a little guidance to get back on our feet. You have already courageously taken the first step by seeking help and that takes strength! I am honored to be a part of this very important journey, to be your guide and companion in this healing process.
(718) 550-6651 View (718) 550-6651
Photo of Andie Loiseau, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andie Loiseau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Scotch Plains, NJ 07076
My ideal client is the client that has an idea of what they want in life but is overwhelmed with life stressors such as anxiety and depression. This client needs a safe space to explore their life options and the triggers that are causing negative thinking patterns, self-doubt, and low self-confidence. This client needs support, encouragement, and a non-judgmental approach to achieve their goals.
My ideal client is the client that has an idea of what they want in life but is overwhelmed with life stressors such as anxiety and depression. This client needs a safe space to explore their life options and the triggers that are causing negative thinking patterns, self-doubt, and low self-confidence. This client needs support, encouragement, and a non-judgmental approach to achieve their goals.
(908) 923-3467 View (908) 923-3467
Photo of Edward M Esposito, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Edward M Esposito
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
I feel the ideal client is anyone who is seeking help. With that in mind, we need to remember that accepting help also means being open to change. Treatment needs to be about accepting that the way we have been doing things hasn't been working.
I feel the ideal client is anyone who is seeking help. With that in mind, we need to remember that accepting help also means being open to change. Treatment needs to be about accepting that the way we have been doing things hasn't been working.
(732) 564-5923 View (732) 564-5923
Photo of Melissa Seifer Cohen, LCSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Seifer Cohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westfield, NJ 07090
I believe that psychotherapy and coaching are gifts you give yourself. For the past 25 years, I have helped countless competent, well-educated people whose lives, while "good on paper," are unsatisfying. They feel empty despite successes and have difficulties maintaining healthy relationships with loved ones. My clients feel stuck in their lives and want to make productive changes. I help them examine the ways they repeat the patterns which only lead us to disappointment. I can help you identify these roadblocks to happiness and guide you to create the life you want and deserve.
I believe that psychotherapy and coaching are gifts you give yourself. For the past 25 years, I have helped countless competent, well-educated people whose lives, while "good on paper," are unsatisfying. They feel empty despite successes and have difficulties maintaining healthy relationships with loved ones. My clients feel stuck in their lives and want to make productive changes. I help them examine the ways they repeat the patterns which only lead us to disappointment. I can help you identify these roadblocks to happiness and guide you to create the life you want and deserve.
(908) 442-8943 View (908) 442-8943

See more therapy options for Fanwood

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.