Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Kenilworth, NJ

Photo of Stephanie Santos, MS, LPC, LCADC, CRC, Counselor
Stephanie Santos
Counselor, MS, LPC, LCADC, CRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kenilworth, NJ 07033  (Online Only)
I have seven years of counseling experiencing working with children, adolescents, adults, groups, families, and persons living with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), or substance use disorders. I utilize an integrative therapeutic approach to provide an individualized counseling experience.
I have seven years of counseling experiencing working with children, adolescents, adults, groups, families, and persons living with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), or substance use disorders. I utilize an integrative therapeutic approach to provide an individualized counseling experience.
(908) 503-5723 View (908) 503-5723
Photo of Tiffany Lewis - Divine Transition Counseling Services , MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Divine Transition Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kenilworth, NJ 07033
Tiffany is a licensed professional counselor who has received training in various disorders. Her primary focus is to work with adolescents and young adults transitioning into adulthood to help them navigate their purpose and destiny through their stories. She also works with women who are going through life's transitions. Tiffany believes that the family system plays a significant role in the healthy function of success. When working with clients, she likes to incorporate solution-focused and person-centered practices. During the session, Tiffany's main priority is to ensure that all clients feel seen and heard.
Tiffany is a licensed professional counselor who has received training in various disorders. Her primary focus is to work with adolescents and young adults transitioning into adulthood to help them navigate their purpose and destiny through their stories. She also works with women who are going through life's transitions. Tiffany believes that the family system plays a significant role in the healthy function of success. When working with clients, she likes to incorporate solution-focused and person-centered practices. During the session, Tiffany's main priority is to ensure that all clients feel seen and heard.
(908) 529-8289 View (908) 529-8289
Photo of Meghan Quinlan-Ilich, MA, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Meghan Quinlan-Ilich
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Kenilworth, NJ 07033  (Online Only)
I have experience working with individuals, couples and families on issues related to addiction, infidelity and trust, self esteem, depression, anxiety, life changes, divorce, identifying goals, grief and loss as well as caregiver stress and elder adult issues and transitions. I have also worked with clients that are struggling with their identity, motivation and setting goals. I have experience with exposure response therapy to assist those with OCD. I also use trauma informed care to work with those who have experienced traumatic events from abuse to loss.
I have experience working with individuals, couples and families on issues related to addiction, infidelity and trust, self esteem, depression, anxiety, life changes, divorce, identifying goals, grief and loss as well as caregiver stress and elder adult issues and transitions. I have also worked with clients that are struggling with their identity, motivation and setting goals. I have experience with exposure response therapy to assist those with OCD. I also use trauma informed care to work with those who have experienced traumatic events from abuse to loss.
(908) 224-4187 View (908) 224-4187
Photo of Tara Colandrea, LPC, MA, SAC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tara Colandrea
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, SAC, ACS
Verified Verified
Kenilworth, NJ 07033
Hi! I am extremely passionate about helping each and every client through caring & empathetic counseling, with a focus on reaching solutions and your highest potential. I strive to create the most comfortable and kindest environment for my clients. I specialize in working with Adolescents who are struggling with fitting in, bullying, self-esteem, body image, behavioral issues, organizational skills, academic issues, eating disorders, family conflict, Obsessive-Compulsive, Peer Relationships, Substance Abuse, Teen Violence, Addiction, Anger Management, Impulsivity, Depression, Grief, Oppositional Defiance, Relationship Issues, Self-Harming, Suicidal Ideation, & Anxiety. I also work with adults in the areas mentioned above as well as Career Counseling.
Hi! I am extremely passionate about helping each and every client through caring & empathetic counseling, with a focus on reaching solutions and your highest potential. I strive to create the most comfortable and kindest environment for my clients. I specialize in working with Adolescents who are struggling with fitting in, bullying, self-esteem, body image, behavioral issues, organizational skills, academic issues, eating disorders, family conflict, Obsessive-Compulsive, Peer Relationships, Substance Abuse, Teen Violence, Addiction, Anger Management, Impulsivity, Depression, Grief, Oppositional Defiance, Relationship Issues, Self-Harming, Suicidal Ideation, & Anxiety. I also work with adults in the areas mentioned above as well as Career Counseling.
(908) 884-1198 View (908) 884-1198
Photo of Lidia D Abrams - Resolve Community Counseling Center, Inc, PhD
Resolve Community Counseling Center, Inc
PhD
Verified Verified
Kenilworth, NJ 07033
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 Yesenia Fermín, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Yesenia Fermín
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kenilworth, NJ 07033
Not accepting new clients
Yesenia is a Spanish speaking therapist who draws from over 20 years of experience. She has dedicated much of her career to working with and advocating for marginalized individuals, including survivors of racist acts, human trafficking, female genital mutilation, domestic violence, and other forms of torture, persecution, and harassment. She is also trained in immigration psychological evaluations.
Yesenia is a Spanish speaking therapist who draws from over 20 years of experience. She has dedicated much of her career to working with and advocating for marginalized individuals, including survivors of racist acts, human trafficking, female genital mutilation, domestic violence, and other forms of torture, persecution, and harassment. She is also trained in immigration psychological evaluations.
(908) 652-7061 View (908) 652-7061

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Richard Smith, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Richard Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Cranford, NJ 07016
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 Richard Smith, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Richard Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Cranford, NJ 07016
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 Victoria B Waring, LCSW-R, M-CASAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Victoria B Waring
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, M-CASAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Millburn, NJ 07041  (Online Only)
You deserve to have a life free of anxiety, sadness, flashbacks from past crises and conflicts in relationships. Share your troubles with me so I can strengthen and empower you to help you manage your worries. I work w Drug and Alcohol Addiction, Grief, Bipolar DO, Stress, Anxiety , Relationship issues , Family conflicts , Trauma and abuse , Intimacy-related issues , Sleeping disorders , Anger management , Self esteem , Depression , Coping with life changes , Compassion fatigue , ADHD , Codependency , Communication Problems , Divorce and Separation , Family Problems , Forgiveness , Guilt and Shame. I am also certified in EMDR
You deserve to have a life free of anxiety, sadness, flashbacks from past crises and conflicts in relationships. Share your troubles with me so I can strengthen and empower you to help you manage your worries. I work w Drug and Alcohol Addiction, Grief, Bipolar DO, Stress, Anxiety , Relationship issues , Family conflicts , Trauma and abuse , Intimacy-related issues , Sleeping disorders , Anger management , Self esteem , Depression , Coping with life changes , Compassion fatigue , ADHD , Codependency , Communication Problems , Divorce and Separation , Family Problems , Forgiveness , Guilt and Shame. I am also certified in EMDR
(929) 577-4570 View (929) 577-4570
Photo of Dana Allegrino, LAC, Counselor
Dana Allegrino
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090  (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 Maryann Habib, LAC, Counselor
Maryann Habib
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Union, NJ 07083
MaryAnn draws from diverse theoretical orientations in her clinical work and is experienced working with a broad range of presenting problems, including counseling and safety planning for high risk individuals diagnosed with but not limited to: MDD, OCD, ADHD, GAD, BPD, Adjustment Disorders, Bipolar Disorders. She has provided counseling for adults affected by trauma; struggling with depression, anxiety, and self-harm. MaryAnn uses various mindfulness and body-awareness techniques to assist clients with decreasing symptoms. She integrates principles of cognitive behavior therapy with various mindfulness techniques.
MaryAnn draws from diverse theoretical orientations in her clinical work and is experienced working with a broad range of presenting problems, including counseling and safety planning for high risk individuals diagnosed with but not limited to: MDD, OCD, ADHD, GAD, BPD, Adjustment Disorders, Bipolar Disorders. She has provided counseling for adults affected by trauma; struggling with depression, anxiety, and self-harm. MaryAnn uses various mindfulness and body-awareness techniques to assist clients with decreasing symptoms. She integrates principles of cognitive behavior therapy with various mindfulness techniques.
(908) 212-9606 View (908) 212-9606
Photo of Edward H Callaghan, PhD, Psychologist
Edward H Callaghan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Cranford, NJ 07016
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 Steven Sussman - Child & Teen Success Center, PhD, Psychologist
Child & Teen Success Center
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cranford, NJ 07016  (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
Jennifer A Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Maplewood, NJ 07040
Or you may be struggling with a 'chemical imbalance,' as seen in addictions, severe depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder.
As a social worker and psychotherapist, I believe in the innate power of every individual to heal. No matter how much of an 'uphill battle' the healing process may at first seem to you, I am dedicated to helping individuals and couples improve their lives - both inside and out. In my therapy practice, I offer a non-judgmental, safe space where you can open up to the solutions that are very likely already inside you. In the therapy process, we can collaborate to identify your goals and build insight into your inner workings.
Or you may be struggling with a 'chemical imbalance,' as seen in addictions, severe depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder.
As a social worker and psychotherapist, I believe in the innate power of every individual to heal. No matter how much of an 'uphill battle' the healing process may at first seem to you, I am dedicated to helping individuals and couples improve their lives - both inside and out. In my therapy practice, I offer a non-judgmental, safe space where you can open up to the solutions that are very likely already inside you. In the therapy process, we can collaborate to identify your goals and build insight into your inner workings.
(917) 725-2056 View (917) 725-2056
Photo of Priscilla S. Bauer, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Priscilla S. Bauer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Millburn, NJ 07041
Addressing her personal and professional goals and aspirations, Priscilla transitioned to private practice where she held office at The Massler Center from 2012-2016, focusing treatment on bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, behavior, grief/loss, PTSD, personality disorders, eating disorders, and OCD.
Priscilla S. Bauer is a LCSW in NJ, graduating Fordham University. Post-graduation, she gained experience with individual, group, and family therapy in the Children/Adolescent Outpatient/Inpatient units at Trinitas Hospital and Monmouth Medical, and was employed with Hoboken UMC as a Crisis Screener intervening in psychiatric emergencies and conducted evaluations. Priscilla was then employed with Effective School Solutions in Glen Ridge, providing individual, group, and family therapy for students ages 11- to 18-years old, and gaining extensive knowledge of IEP and 504 Plan processes/development while working with the CST.
Addressing her personal and professional goals and aspirations, Priscilla transitioned to private practice where she held office at The Massler Center from 2012-2016, focusing treatment on bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, behavior, grief/loss, PTSD, personality disorders, eating disorders, and OCD.
Priscilla S. Bauer is a LCSW in NJ, graduating Fordham University. Post-graduation, she gained experience with individual, group, and family therapy in the Children/Adolescent Outpatient/Inpatient units at Trinitas Hospital and Monmouth Medical, and was employed with Hoboken UMC as a Crisis Screener intervening in psychiatric emergencies and conducted evaluations. Priscilla was then employed with Effective School Solutions in Glen Ridge, providing individual, group, and family therapy for students ages 11- to 18-years old, and gaining extensive knowledge of IEP and 504 Plan processes/development while working with the CST.
(862) 245-4567 View (862) 245-4567
Photo of Chanah Czarka, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chanah Czarka
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Springfield, NJ 07081  (Online Only)
I am a client-centered therapist who uses the strength-based perspective to help individuals identify their difficulties and build coping skills to manage their symptoms. With this in mind, my ideal client would be someone dedicated to introspection, open to new perspectives and information, and wiling to challenge themselves to grow. I would love my clients to leave sessions stronger, more informed and a little "lighter."
I am a client-centered therapist who uses the strength-based perspective to help individuals identify their difficulties and build coping skills to manage their symptoms. With this in mind, my ideal client would be someone dedicated to introspection, open to new perspectives and information, and wiling to challenge themselves to grow. I would love my clients to leave sessions stronger, more informed and a little "lighter."
(516) 550-3344 View (516) 550-3344
Photo of Shana Fontaine, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shana Fontaine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Union, NJ 07083  (Online Only)
The healthiest people are the ones who walk through the door. This communicates to me; the courage it takes to attend a therapy session, already serves to heal. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, my ultimate goal is to empower you to face life's challenges. I have worked extensively with individuals and families and I heavily subscribe to Cognitive Behavior Therapy framework, but pull from several different approaches to meet my clients where they are and support them on their journey.
The healthiest people are the ones who walk through the door. This communicates to me; the courage it takes to attend a therapy session, already serves to heal. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, my ultimate goal is to empower you to face life's challenges. I have worked extensively with individuals and families and I heavily subscribe to Cognitive Behavior Therapy framework, but pull from several different approaches to meet my clients where they are and support them on their journey.
(908) 923-3715 View (908) 923-3715
Photo of Andie Loiseau, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andie Loiseau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cranford, NJ 07016
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 Courtney Flint, LSW
Courtney Flint
Licensed Social Worker , LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Millburn, NJ 07041
Do you keep having the same upsetting thoughts over and over? Do you feel stuck? Do you want things to change but find it hard to hold yourself accountable? Do you want a partner to support you in working towards your goals? My role is to reflect back to you the person you would like to be and empower you to make small changes, one day at a time while reframing that critical voice. I have worked extensively in both New York and London with individuals and families of diverse backgrounds. I tailor my approach to respect my client's cultural heritage, familial background, religious beliefs, and unique life experiences.
Do you keep having the same upsetting thoughts over and over? Do you feel stuck? Do you want things to change but find it hard to hold yourself accountable? Do you want a partner to support you in working towards your goals? My role is to reflect back to you the person you would like to be and empower you to make small changes, one day at a time while reframing that critical voice. I have worked extensively in both New York and London with individuals and families of diverse backgrounds. I tailor my approach to respect my client's cultural heritage, familial background, religious beliefs, and unique life experiences.
(862) 314-3322 View (862) 314-3322
Photo of Emile Berk, PhD, Psychologist
Emile Berk
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Cranford, NJ 07016
Therapy is different for everyone. I believe that our early relationships and experiences deeply shape how we see ourselves and respond to feelings. I use a flexible model of therapy that draws from Internal Family Systems, Emotionally Focused Therapy, neuropsychology, feminist/multicultural, and attachment theories. An emphasis is placed on appreciating the current emotional coping system before attempting to change it. I see my role as helping you develop a relationship with the parts of yourself that you may avoid, reject, or fear. My role is not to fix you (-you're not broken), and it is not to solve your problems.
Therapy is different for everyone. I believe that our early relationships and experiences deeply shape how we see ourselves and respond to feelings. I use a flexible model of therapy that draws from Internal Family Systems, Emotionally Focused Therapy, neuropsychology, feminist/multicultural, and attachment theories. An emphasis is placed on appreciating the current emotional coping system before attempting to change it. I see my role as helping you develop a relationship with the parts of yourself that you may avoid, reject, or fear. My role is not to fix you (-you're not broken), and it is not to solve your problems.
(201) 636-1992 View (201) 636-1992

See more therapy options for Kenilworth

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.