Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Forked River, NJ
![Photo of Lynn Karplarczuk - Lynn Kaplarczuk - Mind & Body CCS , LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6fbc99ec-3835-4974-9a73-7d7daddf7a96/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lynn Kaplarczuk - Mind & Body CCS
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Forked River, NJ 08731
Other common areas I work in include, marital conflict, divorce, and infidelity, self esteem, sleep and insomnia, bipolar disorder, and dual diagnosis.
I work primarily with adult populations, and have experience with a variety of clientele coming from over 15 years of work as a mental health professional in community healthcare. My personality and approach can be described as empathic, positive, and encouraging. I like to create a comfortable space that is client centered and maintains an open mind for whatever you would like to bring to your session together. I take an affirming and supportive approach to assessing your individualized needs. It's my hope that my clients see themselves on a fulfilling journey together as I guide you to discover a path to meeting your goals.
Other common areas I work in include, marital conflict, divorce, and infidelity, self esteem, sleep and insomnia, bipolar disorder, and dual diagnosis.
I work primarily with adult populations, and have experience with a variety of clientele coming from over 15 years of work as a mental health professional in community healthcare. My personality and approach can be described as empathic, positive, and encouraging. I like to create a comfortable space that is client centered and maintains an open mind for whatever you would like to bring to your session together. I take an affirming and supportive approach to assessing your individualized needs. It's my hope that my clients see themselves on a fulfilling journey together as I guide you to discover a path to meeting your goals.
![Photo of Jennifer Lynn Keen, MSW, LCSW, CCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7282c58a-9043-421e-93b0-a1078e6dc1c3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Lynn Keen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Forked River, NJ 08731 (Online Only)
depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders), and trauma/abuse.
It is my personal and professional goal to assist you in attaining your full potential and goals in the therapeutic process. I am a firm believer in the therapeutic relationship as one of the most important tools in overcoming difficulties. I understand it is difficult to ask for help and I view this as a courageous act. We will work together to help you in working through your difficulties at your own pace and in your time. My typical client would be an adult seeking help with substance/alcohol use, co-occurring diagnosis, depression, anxiety, relationship problems, trauma/abuse, PTSD.
depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders), and trauma/abuse.
It is my personal and professional goal to assist you in attaining your full potential and goals in the therapeutic process. I am a firm believer in the therapeutic relationship as one of the most important tools in overcoming difficulties. I understand it is difficult to ask for help and I view this as a courageous act. We will work together to help you in working through your difficulties at your own pace and in your time. My typical client would be an adult seeking help with substance/alcohol use, co-occurring diagnosis, depression, anxiety, relationship problems, trauma/abuse, PTSD.
![Photo of Michelle Falk, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51c9c2dc-a5b6-491f-871f-9148fa147eae/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Falk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Forked River, NJ 08731
I have been working in mental health for 2 decades in various settings and disciplines. I consider myself very genuine and affirming. When working with a client, knowledge is essential to being motivated for change. Connecting the mind and body through education is important in understanding the whole body approach to mental health and substance use recovery. I strive to meet clients where they are at regarding needs and direction of the therapeutic relationship. I believe the client is the expert on themselves and I am a facilitator in their journey of healing.
I have been working in mental health for 2 decades in various settings and disciplines. I consider myself very genuine and affirming. When working with a client, knowledge is essential to being motivated for change. Connecting the mind and body through education is important in understanding the whole body approach to mental health and substance use recovery. I strive to meet clients where they are at regarding needs and direction of the therapeutic relationship. I believe the client is the expert on themselves and I am a facilitator in their journey of healing.
![Photo of Susan Truland - Ocean Counseling and Family Center, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e9f5469-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ocean Counseling and Family Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Forked River, NJ 08731
A HEALTHY MIND, A HEALTHY YOU! We all have the power to choose our own destiny when we choose to view ourselves in a positive relationship with the world around us. You have probably been searching for change in your life for some time now, reaching a point where you feel overwhelmed in managing your physical or emotional health, interpersonal relationships, work, school or financial stressors. Change takes hard work, patience, and a conscious commitment. Don't give up! You will see, there is hope and together we will discover a path to A HEALTHY MIND, A HEALTHY YOU!
A HEALTHY MIND, A HEALTHY YOU! We all have the power to choose our own destiny when we choose to view ourselves in a positive relationship with the world around us. You have probably been searching for change in your life for some time now, reaching a point where you feel overwhelmed in managing your physical or emotional health, interpersonal relationships, work, school or financial stressors. Change takes hard work, patience, and a conscious commitment. Don't give up! You will see, there is hope and together we will discover a path to A HEALTHY MIND, A HEALTHY YOU!
![Photo of Eli Hilman - Eli Hilman, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f71e7d9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Eli Hilman, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Forked River, NJ 08731
If you're feeling overwhelmed or distressed and would like to enhance your well-being and deepen your self-reflection, I can help. In a non-judgmental and collaborative way, I can provide a space for self-exploration, identity development, and transformation and also help you change and feel happier by connecting to your values. As a therapist, I work with people to gain a fresh perspective on their life and on their relationships. I've successfully treated individuals on how to overcome obstacles, communicate, and live a more fulfilled and satisfying life.
If you're feeling overwhelmed or distressed and would like to enhance your well-being and deepen your self-reflection, I can help. In a non-judgmental and collaborative way, I can provide a space for self-exploration, identity development, and transformation and also help you change and feel happier by connecting to your values. As a therapist, I work with people to gain a fresh perspective on their life and on their relationships. I've successfully treated individuals on how to overcome obstacles, communicate, and live a more fulfilled and satisfying life.
![Photo of Cindy Kelly - Okay Fine Counseling, LPC, LCADC, CCS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/57f4cd75-97e6-40b8-94ef-a3f9fcc8a220/1/320x400.jpeg)
Okay Fine Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC, CCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Forked River, NJ 08731
Searching for the right therapist can be daunting and exhausting! I recognize the hesitation in sharing personal and vulnerable information with a stranger, yet encourage you to give it a try. Seeking guidance/direction/insight/skills on a situation in your life that needs to be addressed shows hope, courage, and strength.
Searching for the right therapist can be daunting and exhausting! I recognize the hesitation in sharing personal and vulnerable information with a stranger, yet encourage you to give it a try. Seeking guidance/direction/insight/skills on a situation in your life that needs to be addressed shows hope, courage, and strength.
![Photo of Kate Ecke : The Unconventional Therapist, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f7f11a9c-3c61-4163-8c4d-afaf5ed82007/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kate Ecke : The Unconventional Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Forked River, NJ 08731
Has everything gone to shit? Are you tired of the stereotypical therapy session where you talk, they take notes & you leave feeling like you just ripped open your soul for a stranger who may or may not think you’re a total wackjob? I have and that’s why I gathered a group of cool ass therapists to help you work through your shit. What we are: a group of therapists and prescribers that are cool, non-judgmental & ready to help you figure your shit out. What we offer: teletherapy sessions that are secure & on your time. What you’ll get: a session that’s focused on you & your needs.
Has everything gone to shit? Are you tired of the stereotypical therapy session where you talk, they take notes & you leave feeling like you just ripped open your soul for a stranger who may or may not think you’re a total wackjob? I have and that’s why I gathered a group of cool ass therapists to help you work through your shit. What we are: a group of therapists and prescribers that are cool, non-judgmental & ready to help you figure your shit out. What we offer: teletherapy sessions that are secure & on your time. What you’ll get: a session that’s focused on you & your needs.
![Photo of Noreen Taggart - Haven Behavioral Health, LCSW, LPC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee167efe-8a11-4fef-89b1-f46fe9c0721d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Haven Behavioral Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPC
Verified Verified
Forked River, NJ 08731
Haven Behavioral Health is a private practice with over 30+ years experience and services children, adolescents, and adults. Telehealth services are available by phone or video.
Haven Behavioral Health is a private practice with over 30+ years experience and services children, adolescents, and adults. Telehealth services are available by phone or video.
![Photo of Azalea Howard, LSW, MSW, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/02f1e815-3b7c-4725-b5a3-266492420245/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Social Worker (LSW), who is well experienced working with children, teens, families, elders, and their caregivers for 10 + years. I graduated from Rutgers, The State University of NJ, with my Master’s Degree in Social Work, with high honors over 10 years ago. I also have an Undergraduate Degree in Psychology. I am grateful that I have had the privilege to have worked in multiple capacities from Residential Group Homes for children, teens, and young adults to working with toddlers and parents in Preschools and Head Start.
I am a Licensed Social Worker (LSW), who is well experienced working with children, teens, families, elders, and their caregivers for 10 + years. I graduated from Rutgers, The State University of NJ, with my Master’s Degree in Social Work, with high honors over 10 years ago. I also have an Undergraduate Degree in Psychology. I am grateful that I have had the privilege to have worked in multiple capacities from Residential Group Homes for children, teens, and young adults to working with toddlers and parents in Preschools and Head Start.
![Photo of Cheryl Ann Lemanski - Cheryl A. Lemanski, MSW, LCSW, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f790c44c-abfa-45a7-8293-ad028b51111e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cheryl A. Lemanski, MSW, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Forked River, NJ 08731
I have experience helping emergency service workers and their families as well as children, adolescents and adults discover hope and achieve their goals. Support, encouragement, feedback and off hours availability as well as an eclectic style of counseling is what I offer. We may laugh together and we may cry together. Together we will work hard to reach your goals. "Symptoms are opportunities to examines one's life, to reconsider one's values and habits, to re-evaluate one's personality and relationships, to expand awareness, and to change." L. Hammer MD
I have experience helping emergency service workers and their families as well as children, adolescents and adults discover hope and achieve their goals. Support, encouragement, feedback and off hours availability as well as an eclectic style of counseling is what I offer. We may laugh together and we may cry together. Together we will work hard to reach your goals. "Symptoms are opportunities to examines one's life, to reconsider one's values and habits, to re-evaluate one's personality and relationships, to expand awareness, and to change." L. Hammer MD
![Photo of Susan Taylor - Mindful Solutions NJ, LLC, LCSW, LPC, PSY, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43d3cb94-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mindful Solutions NJ, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPC, PSY, LCADC
Verified Verified
Forked River, NJ 08731
One of the most important factors of successful counseling is to have a good connection with your therapist. Every person entering therapy deserves to have an individualized approach that will meet their specific goals. At Mindful Solutions NJ, we offer a free initial phone consultation so you have the chance to learn about the therapist you would work with prior to committing to fees or a long-term therapeutic relationship. During your consultation, we'll discuss your reasons for seeking counseling. You'll also have the chance to learn about your potential counselor's education, training and counseling approach.
One of the most important factors of successful counseling is to have a good connection with your therapist. Every person entering therapy deserves to have an individualized approach that will meet their specific goals. At Mindful Solutions NJ, we offer a free initial phone consultation so you have the chance to learn about the therapist you would work with prior to committing to fees or a long-term therapeutic relationship. During your consultation, we'll discuss your reasons for seeking counseling. You'll also have the chance to learn about your potential counselor's education, training and counseling approach.
![Photo of Paul M Santasieri - Pathways Neuropsychology Associates, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c80433c2-0baa-40cd-a1c7-968c126381cf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Pathways Neuropsychology Associates
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Forked River, NJ 08731 (Online Only)
Paul Santasieri is a Licensed Professional Counselor certified in individual and marriage and family therapy, with over 25 years experience in the field. Paul graduated from The College of NJ with a Masters in Counseling. Prior to coming to Pathways, Paul was a full time Lecturer in Psychology at Ocean County College. Prior to that, Paul was the Supervisor of Student Personnel Services at Colts Neck High School. Paul specializes in all facets of therapy including, individual, marriage and family and an emphasis on adolescents.
Paul Santasieri is a Licensed Professional Counselor certified in individual and marriage and family therapy, with over 25 years experience in the field. Paul graduated from The College of NJ with a Masters in Counseling. Prior to coming to Pathways, Paul was a full time Lecturer in Psychology at Ocean County College. Prior to that, Paul was the Supervisor of Student Personnel Services at Colts Neck High School. Paul specializes in all facets of therapy including, individual, marriage and family and an emphasis on adolescents.
![Photo of Christine Leotta Selby, LPC, LCADC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8a65364c-f9a4-4901-8aeb-17839427a365/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christine Leotta Selby
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC, ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Forked River, NJ 08731
Everyone deserves to be seen and heard for who they truly are. Sometimes, due to life experiences and events, we lose track of who we are. We are left feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, sad, lost, angry, and not ourselves. Let's work together and explore all the possibilities your life has to offer you.
Everyone deserves to be seen and heard for who they truly are. Sometimes, due to life experiences and events, we lose track of who we are. We are left feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, sad, lost, angry, and not ourselves. Let's work together and explore all the possibilities your life has to offer you.
![Photo of Rich DeMott, LPC, LCADC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b052707b-8453-43a1-8eae-7625700e843c/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) with over 30 years of experience in the mental health and recovery fields. I have been in private practice for the last 20 years. I am clinically well rounded, nonjudgmental, and fairly soul-seasoned as a human being, myself. I find the majority of my clients to be very psychologically and spiritually heroic/ inspiring. Many of them teach me important things about my own inner life journey. I am also a multiple trauma survivor and have been clean and sober for the last 38 years. I also specialize with codependents/ACOAs.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) with over 30 years of experience in the mental health and recovery fields. I have been in private practice for the last 20 years. I am clinically well rounded, nonjudgmental, and fairly soul-seasoned as a human being, myself. I find the majority of my clients to be very psychologically and spiritually heroic/ inspiring. Many of them teach me important things about my own inner life journey. I am also a multiple trauma survivor and have been clean and sober for the last 38 years. I also specialize with codependents/ACOAs.
![Photo of Nicole Lanno, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a16b99f-2d8c-45d5-88b6-14a8a817b387/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Lanno
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Forked River, NJ 08731
If you’re struggling to cope with anxiety, depression or adjustment to daily stress, I can help you navigate these feelings and offer a path forward. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker committed to helping children, adolescents, teens and adults learn how to cope with mental health challenges. My work focuses on goal setting and cognitive restructuring with a solution focused approach.
If you’re struggling to cope with anxiety, depression or adjustment to daily stress, I can help you navigate these feelings and offer a path forward. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker committed to helping children, adolescents, teens and adults learn how to cope with mental health challenges. My work focuses on goal setting and cognitive restructuring with a solution focused approach.
![Photo of Carla Buglione, LAC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/37f7b2ec-c7e7-401e-9264-2930ee571699/1/320x400.jpeg)
Life can be overwhelming, especially when navigating the pressures of school, work, and personal relationships. As a Licensed Associate Counselor , I specialize in working with teenagers and adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, and the effects of trauma. Whether you're feeling lost in the whirlwind of expectations or battling with your inner critic, I provide a safe and nonjudgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
Life can be overwhelming, especially when navigating the pressures of school, work, and personal relationships. As a Licensed Associate Counselor , I specialize in working with teenagers and adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, and the effects of trauma. Whether you're feeling lost in the whirlwind of expectations or battling with your inner critic, I provide a safe and nonjudgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
![Photo of Wendy Lee Newcomb-Beattie - Wendy Newcomb-Beattie, LCMHC, PLLC, MA, LCMHC, PLLC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bfd08870-651a-41d4-88c4-2981016039cf/3/320x400.jpeg)
Wendy Newcomb-Beattie, LCMHC, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, PLLC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Forked River, NJ 08731 (Online Only)
Ok.Take a deep breath. No matter where you are in your search for a therapist, anxiety can make the task feel overwhelming. I understand. My goal is to help you experience a sense of peace and balance in all areas of your life. Let me help you focus on what really makes you feel fulfilled. Depending on your needs, I will draw upon a wide range of techniques to help you achieve wellness. Together, we'll set goals & monitor the progress of your life satisfaction. Convenient hours are available by appointment.
Ok.Take a deep breath. No matter where you are in your search for a therapist, anxiety can make the task feel overwhelming. I understand. My goal is to help you experience a sense of peace and balance in all areas of your life. Let me help you focus on what really makes you feel fulfilled. Depending on your needs, I will draw upon a wide range of techniques to help you achieve wellness. Together, we'll set goals & monitor the progress of your life satisfaction. Convenient hours are available by appointment.
![Photo of Sarah Tuzeneu, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/be23cb62-6bfc-48c7-999e-a23d05c32bbf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Tuzeneu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Forked River, NJ 08731
I am a LCSW with over 10 years of experience in the field. My private practice was formed under the simple concept that our experiences are unique & individual & our experience with therapy should also mirror that. I built my practice under the same values of my sessions; with integrity,compassion & a little bit of humor. These qualities, in my view, are essential to building lasting, therapeutic relationships. As your therapist, I will utilize evidenced based treatments that are tailored to you. I will be there to work alongside of you, to provide you with direct, yet supportive feedback help guide you to achieve your goals.
I am a LCSW with over 10 years of experience in the field. My private practice was formed under the simple concept that our experiences are unique & individual & our experience with therapy should also mirror that. I built my practice under the same values of my sessions; with integrity,compassion & a little bit of humor. These qualities, in my view, are essential to building lasting, therapeutic relationships. As your therapist, I will utilize evidenced based treatments that are tailored to you. I will be there to work alongside of you, to provide you with direct, yet supportive feedback help guide you to achieve your goals.
![Photo of Hannah Campbell, LMSW, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/05fca797-b50e-4dae-a716-6b2559928fa5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hannah Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Forked River, NJ 08731
I specialize in couples and families, postpartum anxiety and depression, early adulthood with a focus on college and career, and individuals centering on trauma-focused care to reconnect the mind and body. I believe in assisting my clients in recognizing their strengths and to help them discover new strengths and ideas so they can reach their goals. With an emphasis on the power of the therapeutic relationship that honors the space required for healing, feeling, and for real growth to occur. I utilizes a broad range of therapies, including DBT, solution-focused, and person- centered.
I specialize in couples and families, postpartum anxiety and depression, early adulthood with a focus on college and career, and individuals centering on trauma-focused care to reconnect the mind and body. I believe in assisting my clients in recognizing their strengths and to help them discover new strengths and ideas so they can reach their goals. With an emphasis on the power of the therapeutic relationship that honors the space required for healing, feeling, and for real growth to occur. I utilizes a broad range of therapies, including DBT, solution-focused, and person- centered.
![Photo of Christina Wozniak - Life Balance Counseling Services, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/64de8603-d0ea-4c35-a52a-c2e3f3d24374/1/320x400.jpeg)
Life Balance Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Forked River, NJ 08731
Not accepting new clients
Wellness is a matter of balance. Anyone who struggles with addiction, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, or ANY experience of overwhelming emotion, can relate to a sense of imbalance. Often times we develop strategies to tip the scale. Unfortunately, we may find strategies that become part of a cycle of avoidance. I can help you break this cycle by creating strategies that promote balance, rather than a constant see-saw.
Wellness is a matter of balance. Anyone who struggles with addiction, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, or ANY experience of overwhelming emotion, can relate to a sense of imbalance. Often times we develop strategies to tip the scale. Unfortunately, we may find strategies that become part of a cycle of avoidance. I can help you break this cycle by creating strategies that promote balance, rather than a constant see-saw.
See more therapy options for Forked River
Nearby Bipolar Disorder Therapists Searches for Forked River
- Barnegat
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- Brick
- Lakewood
- Lavallette
- Little Egg Harbor
- Manahawkin
- Mantoloking
- Point Pleasant
- Point Pleasant Beach
- Stafford Township
- Toms River
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.