Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Secaucus, NJ

Photo of Kenya Humphries, PhD, Psychologist
Kenya Humphries
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Secaucus, NJ 07094
Dr. Kenya Humphries is a Psychologist in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2002. She has a PhD in Clinical Psychology. Dr. Humphries knows that life can be a struggle, even more so due to the pandemic. Be it depression, anxiety, aging, financial stress, postpartum depression, midlife transitions or any of life's issues, Dr. Humphries would like to help you alleviate and manage these challenges. As your therapist, she'd like to help you gain new insights and perspectives into your problems to help you lead a more fulfilled life.
Dr. Kenya Humphries is a Psychologist in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2002. She has a PhD in Clinical Psychology. Dr. Humphries knows that life can be a struggle, even more so due to the pandemic. Be it depression, anxiety, aging, financial stress, postpartum depression, midlife transitions or any of life's issues, Dr. Humphries would like to help you alleviate and manage these challenges. As your therapist, she'd like to help you gain new insights and perspectives into your problems to help you lead a more fulfilled life.
(201) 429-0940 View (201) 429-0940
Photo of Dominic Canova - Doctor Domenico Psychotherapy Services LLC, PsyD, MSEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Doctor Domenico Psychotherapy Services LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, MSEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Secaucus, NJ 07094  (Online Only)
My goal of working with you is to assist you in navigating difficulties, issues, and problems within your life that you would like to address in a supportive and empathic manner. I work specifically with adolescents, young adults, and adults. I treat clients for an array of quality of life issues including: depression, anxiety, work related stress, grief and loss, and family conflict. Further, I am here to create a safe space to work on past trauma and other issues that are impacting your life. I believe that you know yourself better than anyone and I am here to listen and to join you on this journey.
My goal of working with you is to assist you in navigating difficulties, issues, and problems within your life that you would like to address in a supportive and empathic manner. I work specifically with adolescents, young adults, and adults. I treat clients for an array of quality of life issues including: depression, anxiety, work related stress, grief and loss, and family conflict. Further, I am here to create a safe space to work on past trauma and other issues that are impacting your life. I believe that you know yourself better than anyone and I am here to listen and to join you on this journey.
(201) 350-3235 View (201) 350-3235
Photo of Jamielee Smith, MA, LPC, LCADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jamielee Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
Secaucus, NJ 07094
In my practice, I see the normal, everyday person who needs help managing their emotions and behaviors. We make mistakes and life can be confusing. I’m here to help with that. I am a warm, caring, compassionate professional with a special interest in working with adults, children, adolescents, and families. I am dedicated to helping individuals find their strengths, accept their flaws, and motivate themselves to make positive changes in their lives. I help people make goals, motivate themselves to change, and find ways to implement strategies to make those adjustments in their lives.
In my practice, I see the normal, everyday person who needs help managing their emotions and behaviors. We make mistakes and life can be confusing. I’m here to help with that. I am a warm, caring, compassionate professional with a special interest in working with adults, children, adolescents, and families. I am dedicated to helping individuals find their strengths, accept their flaws, and motivate themselves to make positive changes in their lives. I help people make goals, motivate themselves to change, and find ways to implement strategies to make those adjustments in their lives.
(201) 508-9567 View (201) 508-9567
Photo of Marisol Charernsook - Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Secaucus, NJ 07094
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
(551) 296-7215 View (551) 296-7215
Photo of Arlene Rodriguez, LAC, Counselor
Arlene Rodriguez
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Secaucus, NJ 07094
Arlene earned her Bachelor's of Arts degree at Bloomfield College in Sociology with a concentration in Criminal Justice. She then obtained her Master of Arts degree in Forensic Psychology and Counseling at Saint Elizabeth University. After receiving her Master's degree, she decided to further her education and pursue two post graduate certifications at Montclair State University in Alcohol and Drug Counseling and Advanced Counseling. Arlene believes that having a collaborative, strong therapeutic relationship brings positive therapy outcomes.
Arlene earned her Bachelor's of Arts degree at Bloomfield College in Sociology with a concentration in Criminal Justice. She then obtained her Master of Arts degree in Forensic Psychology and Counseling at Saint Elizabeth University. After receiving her Master's degree, she decided to further her education and pursue two post graduate certifications at Montclair State University in Alcohol and Drug Counseling and Advanced Counseling. Arlene believes that having a collaborative, strong therapeutic relationship brings positive therapy outcomes.
(908) 774-9287 View (908) 774-9287
Photo of Nidhi Shah, MA,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nidhi Shah
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Secaucus, NJ 07094
Nidhi Shah is a Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2021. Nidhi obtained her Master’s degree from William Paterson University in Clinical and Counseling Psychology. She has seven years of experience in a Partial Hospitalization Program for children aged 6 to 11 and their families, along with more than three years of experience with children, adolescents, and adults individually. Nidhi enjoys working with a wide range of behavioral health issues including anxiety, depression, bi-polar disorder, trauma, ADHD, and Autism Spectrum.
Nidhi Shah is a Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2021. Nidhi obtained her Master’s degree from William Paterson University in Clinical and Counseling Psychology. She has seven years of experience in a Partial Hospitalization Program for children aged 6 to 11 and their families, along with more than three years of experience with children, adolescents, and adults individually. Nidhi enjoys working with a wide range of behavioral health issues including anxiety, depression, bi-polar disorder, trauma, ADHD, and Autism Spectrum.
(908) 641-3353 View (908) 641-3353
Photo of Kardelen Dogan, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kardelen Dogan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Secaucus, NJ 07094
Kardelen Dogan is a Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2021. She earned a Master's degree in Psychoanalytic Developmental Psychology from University College London, UK, where she delved into the intricate facets of psychological development and psychoanalytic theories. Following her studies in the UK, she pursued further academic and practical expertise by completing a program in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the University of Houston Victoria, Texas.
Kardelen Dogan is a Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey who has been practicing since 2021. She earned a Master's degree in Psychoanalytic Developmental Psychology from University College London, UK, where she delved into the intricate facets of psychological development and psychoanalytic theories. Following her studies in the UK, she pursued further academic and practical expertise by completing a program in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the University of Houston Victoria, Texas.
(855) 417-5683 View (855) 417-5683
Photo of Heidi Morelli, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heidi Morelli
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Secaucus, NJ 07094  (Online Only)
Life is challenging and it's not surprising that many of us struggle with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, difficulty making decisions and building healthy relationships. Many of us have received the message that we aren’t “good enough”. These messages can come from many different sources and it can be difficult not to internalize these unhealthy belief systems. We will work together to get a better understanding of how your thoughts, feelings and behaviors have been impacted by past and present experiences and what you can do to not allow these negative experiences define who you are today.
Life is challenging and it's not surprising that many of us struggle with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, difficulty making decisions and building healthy relationships. Many of us have received the message that we aren’t “good enough”. These messages can come from many different sources and it can be difficult not to internalize these unhealthy belief systems. We will work together to get a better understanding of how your thoughts, feelings and behaviors have been impacted by past and present experiences and what you can do to not allow these negative experiences define who you are today.
(201) 975-6193 View (201) 975-6193
Photo of Kardelen Dogan - NJ Behavioral Health - A LifeStance Health Affilia, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
NJ Behavioral Health - A LifeStance Health Affilia
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Secaucus, NJ 07094
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(855) 262-3895 View (855) 262-3895
Photo of Sophia Mai, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sophia Mai
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Secaucus, NJ 07094  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Are you a high achiever? But despite how much you have accomplished, you still feel that you are hindered by low self-esteem? Do you often feel confused or ashamed when thinking about your childhood experiences? I understand how isolated you may feel when you are not able to get the help you need. Isolation leads to feelings of loneliness and that heavy feeling is such a huge burden to carry. Imagine working with a warm, compassionate, and validating therapist, who can hold your hand, while processing your childhood stories with you. Together, we make the unconscious conscious, and eventually, help you become your authentic self.
Are you a high achiever? But despite how much you have accomplished, you still feel that you are hindered by low self-esteem? Do you often feel confused or ashamed when thinking about your childhood experiences? I understand how isolated you may feel when you are not able to get the help you need. Isolation leads to feelings of loneliness and that heavy feeling is such a huge burden to carry. Imagine working with a warm, compassionate, and validating therapist, who can hold your hand, while processing your childhood stories with you. Together, we make the unconscious conscious, and eventually, help you become your authentic self.
(609) 849-5532 View (609) 849-5532

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Victoria Garofalo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Victoria Garofalo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Bergen, NJ 07047  (Online Only)
I have helped countless individuals overcome difficulties that have prevented them from enjoying their lives. I am truly fulfilled by this work and am grateful for every opportunity I am given to make an impact. I utilize a mix of humor and empathy in sessions and aim to empower my clients. I take my clients' lead as to whether they prefer a more passive, listening approach or if they want to set goals and complete weekly homework. I have 17 years of experience helping adults with depression, anxiety, phobias, OCD, addiction, and Bipolar Disorder, among other conditions.
I have helped countless individuals overcome difficulties that have prevented them from enjoying their lives. I am truly fulfilled by this work and am grateful for every opportunity I am given to make an impact. I utilize a mix of humor and empathy in sessions and aim to empower my clients. I take my clients' lead as to whether they prefer a more passive, listening approach or if they want to set goals and complete weekly homework. I have 17 years of experience helping adults with depression, anxiety, phobias, OCD, addiction, and Bipolar Disorder, among other conditions.
(201) 597-0945 View (201) 597-0945
Photo of David F Wilson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David F Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hoboken, NJ 07030
Let me help you overcome: anxiety and stress; depression and sadness, schizophrenia or mood disorders such as bipolar disorder.
Welcome! I exclusively do home visits on Staten Island. I am committed to your healing and future success. Let me help you to: Increase happiness and enjoyment in your life; decrease your suffering and become a better you; move from a position of mental illness to one of health and wellness; rid yourself of fear and anger. My goal is for you to feel strengthened and to discover new potentials for restoration, progress and transformation. Please check out my website! As an out of network provider I work for you. Expect to get 60 to 90% back from payment. I am also now a Medicare Provider, meaning I accept Medicare as payment.
Let me help you overcome: anxiety and stress; depression and sadness, schizophrenia or mood disorders such as bipolar disorder.
Welcome! I exclusively do home visits on Staten Island. I am committed to your healing and future success. Let me help you to: Increase happiness and enjoyment in your life; decrease your suffering and become a better you; move from a position of mental illness to one of health and wellness; rid yourself of fear and anger. My goal is for you to feel strengthened and to discover new potentials for restoration, progress and transformation. Please check out my website! As an out of network provider I work for you. Expect to get 60 to 90% back from payment. I am also now a Medicare Provider, meaning I accept Medicare as payment.
(844) 811-4461 View (844) 811-4461
Photo of Stephanie Palmer McMahon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Palmer McMahon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Bergen, NJ 07047  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical social worker practicing for over 25 years in the field of behavioral healthcare. I am a Rutgers University graduate who works in both a private practice and a hospital setting. I am often sought out by EMS, police, firefighters, and healthcare staff for my knowledge in the field of emergencies and PTSD related to work exposures, as well as chronic illness and traumatic injuries. My scope of practice includes helping people with depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, and chronic mental illness, as well as family and relationship issues, work stress, and loss.
I am a licensed clinical social worker practicing for over 25 years in the field of behavioral healthcare. I am a Rutgers University graduate who works in both a private practice and a hospital setting. I am often sought out by EMS, police, firefighters, and healthcare staff for my knowledge in the field of emergencies and PTSD related to work exposures, as well as chronic illness and traumatic injuries. My scope of practice includes helping people with depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, and chronic mental illness, as well as family and relationship issues, work stress, and loss.
(551) 310-3797 View (551) 310-3797
Photo of Allison Vespa, MBA, MA,  MS, LMHC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Allison Vespa
Pre-Licensed Professional, MBA, MA, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Jersey City, NJ 07307
I am a psychospiritual practioner that blends elements of psychology and spirituality to offer a holistic mind-body-spirit approach. My goal is to help you remember your innate wholeness and reconnect with your true self. As a passionate contemplative practitioner, my calling is to support others on their path of self-realization and spiritual development. I am also deeply passionate about supporting other empaths and highly sensitive people to hone and honor their unique gifts. My specialties include anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, grief, bipolar I & II, life-transitions, existentialism, & spiritual development.
I am a psychospiritual practioner that blends elements of psychology and spirituality to offer a holistic mind-body-spirit approach. My goal is to help you remember your innate wholeness and reconnect with your true self. As a passionate contemplative practitioner, my calling is to support others on their path of self-realization and spiritual development. I am also deeply passionate about supporting other empaths and highly sensitive people to hone and honor their unique gifts. My specialties include anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, grief, bipolar I & II, life-transitions, existentialism, & spiritual development.
(551) 310-2768 View (551) 310-2768
Photo of Felipe A. Lau, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Felipe A. Lau
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
West New York, NJ 07093  (Online Only)
I have experience treating several mental health issues including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, PTSD, psychotic disorders, substance use disorders, grief and loss, and family and relationship stressors.
Hi, my name is Felipe, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I received my Master of Arts in Counseling from Montclair State University with a concentration in Community Counseling. I am a bilingual therapist and can conduct therapy sessions in English and Spanish. I have 15 years of experience as a mental health professional with the opportunity to work with various ages and backgrounds in different clinical settings. I have experience providing individual therapy and use a person-centered approach. I utilize concepts and tools from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
I have experience treating several mental health issues including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, PTSD, psychotic disorders, substance use disorders, grief and loss, and family and relationship stressors.
Hi, my name is Felipe, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I received my Master of Arts in Counseling from Montclair State University with a concentration in Community Counseling. I am a bilingual therapist and can conduct therapy sessions in English and Spanish. I have 15 years of experience as a mental health professional with the opportunity to work with various ages and backgrounds in different clinical settings. I have experience providing individual therapy and use a person-centered approach. I utilize concepts and tools from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
(973) 490-4787 View (973) 490-4787
Photo of Therese Reseska, LPC, Counselor
Therese Reseska
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Bergen, NJ 07047  (Online Only)
My experience includes work with adult clients who have difficulty with substance abuse issues; individuals who have experienced a traumatic event in their lives; young adults who are experiencing a first episode of psychosis; individuals who suffer from persistent mental illness such as Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder; and college students.
Therapy is a multi-faceted process that involves increasing self-awareness and problem-solving. The process is enhanced by active engagement between a client and a therapist, who build a collaborative and trusting relationship. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Licensed Clinical and Alcohol Drug Counselor (LCADC) in the state of New Jersey, and I have over 20+ years of experience as a Mental Health Clinician within a local community mental health agency in central NJ. I help individuals resolve problems and transform patterns of feeling, thinking, and behavior, so they can create a life that is more fulfilling.
My experience includes work with adult clients who have difficulty with substance abuse issues; individuals who have experienced a traumatic event in their lives; young adults who are experiencing a first episode of psychosis; individuals who suffer from persistent mental illness such as Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder; and college students.
Therapy is a multi-faceted process that involves increasing self-awareness and problem-solving. The process is enhanced by active engagement between a client and a therapist, who build a collaborative and trusting relationship. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Licensed Clinical and Alcohol Drug Counselor (LCADC) in the state of New Jersey, and I have over 20+ years of experience as a Mental Health Clinician within a local community mental health agency in central NJ. I help individuals resolve problems and transform patterns of feeling, thinking, and behavior, so they can create a life that is more fulfilling.
(201) 350-1621 View (201) 350-1621
Photo of Andrey Rusetskiy - Insight.inc, MS, LMSW
Insight.inc
MS, LMSW
Verified Verified
Guttenberg, NJ 07093  (Online Only)
In treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, relationship issues and other problems, I use psychodynamic approach, CBT, Transactional Analysis,Existential and Gestalt therapy approaches.
During my 35 years of professional experience in the field of psychology i worked with the small groups under extreme conditions in the expeditions, performed forensic psychological services in Russian prisons and research in the airport, provided counseling services in family psychology and maladaptation. In America my major focus for the past 15 years is on on individual and couple therapy
In treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, relationship issues and other problems, I use psychodynamic approach, CBT, Transactional Analysis,Existential and Gestalt therapy approaches.
During my 35 years of professional experience in the field of psychology i worked with the small groups under extreme conditions in the expeditions, performed forensic psychological services in Russian prisons and research in the airport, provided counseling services in family psychology and maladaptation. In America my major focus for the past 15 years is on on individual and couple therapy
(732) 333-8630 View (732) 333-8630
Photo of Felipe Lau, LPC, Counselor
Felipe Lau
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Bergen, NJ 07047  (Online Only)
I have experience treating several mental health issues including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, PTSD, psychotic disorders, substance use disorders, grief and loss, and family and relationship stressors.
I believe in building a trusting relationship that leads to the empowerment of my clients. In our work together, my priority is for you to feel safe in being yourself and expressing your experiences. I have experience providing bilingual (English and Spanish) individual therapy and use a person-centered approach when working with clients. I am passionate about normalizing mental health treatment and I believe that access to mental health care is a right and not a privilege.
I have experience treating several mental health issues including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, PTSD, psychotic disorders, substance use disorders, grief and loss, and family and relationship stressors.
I believe in building a trusting relationship that leads to the empowerment of my clients. In our work together, my priority is for you to feel safe in being yourself and expressing your experiences. I have experience providing bilingual (English and Spanish) individual therapy and use a person-centered approach when working with clients. I am passionate about normalizing mental health treatment and I believe that access to mental health care is a right and not a privilege.
(201) 500-3665 View (201) 500-3665
Photo of Carly Krupat, LSW
Carly Krupat
Licensed Social Worker, LSW
Verified Verified
Lyndhurst, NJ 07071
She is particularly committed to working with clients experiencing anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD/trauma.
Carly Krupat, LSW is a compassionate and dedicated therapist at LifeStance Health, serving adults and seniors across New Jersey. Carly helps clients navigate their mental health journeys by creating a warm, patient, and nonjudgmental environment where they can safely express their thoughts and emotions. Carly graduated from Montclair State University where she majored in psychology and minored in social work, then earned her Master of Social Work from Rutgers University with a clinical social work specialization. Carly is particularly skilled in helping clients develop tools for mood regulation, mindfulness, and distress tolerance.
She is particularly committed to working with clients experiencing anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD/trauma.
Carly Krupat, LSW is a compassionate and dedicated therapist at LifeStance Health, serving adults and seniors across New Jersey. Carly helps clients navigate their mental health journeys by creating a warm, patient, and nonjudgmental environment where they can safely express their thoughts and emotions. Carly graduated from Montclair State University where she majored in psychology and minored in social work, then earned her Master of Social Work from Rutgers University with a clinical social work specialization. Carly is particularly skilled in helping clients develop tools for mood regulation, mindfulness, and distress tolerance.
(855) 417-5683 View (855) 417-5683
Photo of Roberta Monteiro, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Roberta Monteiro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
North Bergen, NJ 07047  (Online Only)
I focus on client-centered therapy. Each client is a unique being and is part of a complex environment. They bring a set of personal characteristics and a life history. Therapy is based on the client's perspective of their need and we work on changes, achievements, and resilience as we face each challenge.
I focus on client-centered therapy. Each client is a unique being and is part of a complex environment. They bring a set of personal characteristics and a life history. Therapy is based on the client's perspective of their need and we work on changes, achievements, and resilience as we face each challenge.
(201) 793-8796 View (201) 793-8796

See more therapy options for Secaucus

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.