Photo of Stephen Chece - Chece Psychological, LLC, PhD, LCSW, Psychologist
Chece Psychological, LLC
Psychologist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08757
Congratulations! You have taken the first brave step to feeling better. Chece Psychological, LLC provides therapy and psychological evaluations for children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples. Having over 40 years of combined experience, our top specialties include treatment of substance abuse/addiction, couples/marriage conflicts, child/adolescents, behavior/academic problems, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma (abuse, neglect, combat), and life-change stress. We also specialize in forensic and general psychological evaluations, including assessment of emotional intelligence.
Congratulations! You have taken the first brave step to feeling better. Chece Psychological, LLC provides therapy and psychological evaluations for children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples. Having over 40 years of combined experience, our top specialties include treatment of substance abuse/addiction, couples/marriage conflicts, child/adolescents, behavior/academic problems, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma (abuse, neglect, combat), and life-change stress. We also specialize in forensic and general psychological evaluations, including assessment of emotional intelligence.
(732) 603-1225 View (732) 603-1225
Photo of Tyler Kennedy, MA, LAC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Tyler Kennedy
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
My goal is to facilitate mindfulness-based efficacious approaches, watchfulness and compassion in the therapeutic context, to strengthen and ignite greatness within. I have experience treating a wide variety of mental disorders, brain, neurodivergent presentations, behavioral challenges, and guiding people of all ages through difficult periods of life. I look forward to exploring your road to recovery together, whether through individual, family, or marriage counseling, utilizing mindfulness or music therapies! If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, or lifelong cycles of dysfunction, call today!
My goal is to facilitate mindfulness-based efficacious approaches, watchfulness and compassion in the therapeutic context, to strengthen and ignite greatness within. I have experience treating a wide variety of mental disorders, brain, neurodivergent presentations, behavioral challenges, and guiding people of all ages through difficult periods of life. I look forward to exploring your road to recovery together, whether through individual, family, or marriage counseling, utilizing mindfulness or music therapies! If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, or lifelong cycles of dysfunction, call today!
(732) 538-9431 View (732) 538-9431
Robbin J Kay
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
If you find yourself looking through these profiles, you may be struggling with life in some way, perhaps you just want to better yourself, maybe you just need someone to vent and unload on, or maybe you want therapy because you live with someone with a clinical diagnosis. For over 20 years, I have enjoyed working with all populations ages twelve and older. You don’t need to have a clinical diagnosis to benefit from therapy. Therapy is different for everyone and not every therapist is the right one for you. Clinical expertise is not the only important criteria for an effective therapist.
If you find yourself looking through these profiles, you may be struggling with life in some way, perhaps you just want to better yourself, maybe you just need someone to vent and unload on, or maybe you want therapy because you live with someone with a clinical diagnosis. For over 20 years, I have enjoyed working with all populations ages twelve and older. You don’t need to have a clinical diagnosis to benefit from therapy. Therapy is different for everyone and not every therapist is the right one for you. Clinical expertise is not the only important criteria for an effective therapist.
(848) 285-6541 View (848) 285-6541
Photo of Thomas J Mackarevich Ph.d, PhD, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Thomas J Mackarevich Ph.d
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
Life is too short to let the everyday burdens we face create turmoil, and gain control over our emotions. Our feelings can control us or we can learn to control them. A situation, person, place, or thing only has the power to control our feelings...if we let it. It is our responsibility (and only ours) to control our feelings and behavior. Thus, we can find true contentment and serenity.
Life is too short to let the everyday burdens we face create turmoil, and gain control over our emotions. Our feelings can control us or we can learn to control them. A situation, person, place, or thing only has the power to control our feelings...if we let it. It is our responsibility (and only ours) to control our feelings and behavior. Thus, we can find true contentment and serenity.
(848) 251-0786 View (848) 251-0786
Photo of Brian L Burgess, PhD, Psychologist
Brian L Burgess
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
Dr. Burgess is a counseling psychologist and the owner of BB Counseling. Dr. Burgess received his Bachelor's degree from the University of Massachusetts. Upon graduation, he went on to receive his Master's Degree and Doctorate in Counseling Psychology from Seton Hall University. Dr. Burgess treats a variety of disorders including but not limited to anxiety, mood disorders, personality disorders, ocd, oppositional defiant disorder, ADHD, anger, chronic pain, marriage counseling, and parental counseling. Treatment also includes psychological evaluations for bariatric surgery, spinal cord stimulators, and long term pain medication.
Dr. Burgess is a counseling psychologist and the owner of BB Counseling. Dr. Burgess received his Bachelor's degree from the University of Massachusetts. Upon graduation, he went on to receive his Master's Degree and Doctorate in Counseling Psychology from Seton Hall University. Dr. Burgess treats a variety of disorders including but not limited to anxiety, mood disorders, personality disorders, ocd, oppositional defiant disorder, ADHD, anger, chronic pain, marriage counseling, and parental counseling. Treatment also includes psychological evaluations for bariatric surgery, spinal cord stimulators, and long term pain medication.
(732) 655-6138 View (732) 655-6138
Photo of Luciann Cooke - Counseling & Consulting Services of North Jersey , LPC, LCSW, LCADC, CCS, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Counseling & Consulting Services of North Jersey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC, LCSW, LCADC, CCS, CCTP
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
We offer the highest quality of care providing therapy services for adults, couples, families, and children. CCSNJ s a beautiful and established facility that individualizes ALL our patients.You will have direct access to your therapist and can contact them at any time. Offering both in person and tele-health, you will receive the highest quality of therapy from a fully licensed clinician (no intern or trainee's).Our therapists specialize in Addictions, Trauma, PTSD & EMDR Therapy, Anxiety, Depression, OCD, ADHD, Grief, & Family/Couples counseling. We have an in-house prescriber if you are in need of medications as well.
We offer the highest quality of care providing therapy services for adults, couples, families, and children. CCSNJ s a beautiful and established facility that individualizes ALL our patients.You will have direct access to your therapist and can contact them at any time. Offering both in person and tele-health, you will receive the highest quality of therapy from a fully licensed clinician (no intern or trainee's).Our therapists specialize in Addictions, Trauma, PTSD & EMDR Therapy, Anxiety, Depression, OCD, ADHD, Grief, & Family/Couples counseling. We have an in-house prescriber if you are in need of medications as well.
(973) 434-4270 View (973) 434-4270
We Level Up NJ Addiction Rehab & Detox Therapy
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCADC
Verified Verified
Toms River, NJ 08753
Nationally Recognized Therapy at We Level Up Treatment Center. Free 24/7 hotline & assessments. Get help, take your first step to get better! Your call is FREE. We're top addiction & behavioral experts backed by Joint Commission's Accreditation pending held by top 10% of treatment centers. Specializing in the treatment of alcohol & substance abuse along with dual-diagnosis mental health cases like depression, mood, & thought disorders. Treatment via cutting-edge therapy programs using advanced evidence-based modalities for improved recovery results. Offering on-site medical detox programs via world-class specialists to counseling.
Nationally Recognized Therapy at We Level Up Treatment Center. Free 24/7 hotline & assessments. Get help, take your first step to get better! Your call is FREE. We're top addiction & behavioral experts backed by Joint Commission's Accreditation pending held by top 10% of treatment centers. Specializing in the treatment of alcohol & substance abuse along with dual-diagnosis mental health cases like depression, mood, & thought disorders. Treatment via cutting-edge therapy programs using advanced evidence-based modalities for improved recovery results. Offering on-site medical detox programs via world-class specialists to counseling.
(609) 418-4013 View (609) 418-4013

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Nina Garland - Footprints to Feel Better, Licensed Professional Counselor
Footprints to Feel Better
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Lakewood, NJ 08701
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, borderline, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Footprints began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
We work with depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD, eating disorders, bereavement, borderline, autism, ADHD, addiction, sexual abuse, DV, medical illnesses, relationship problems, LGTBQ+, adjustment disorders and forensic cases.
Footprints was started by a therapist who realized that often times the services provided to low socio-economic communities is lacking quality care. We noticed these communities were confronted with long wait times, disrespectful admins, and subpar treatment. The one and only purpose was to exploit the community for profit without providing the level of care deserved. Footprints began from the inspiration to provide quality mental health care to the poorest of communities and treating the clients of this community the same way a rich patient would be treated in a clinic treating affluent clients.
(646) 204-2295 View (646) 204-2295
Photo of Mac Swed, LAC, Counselor
Mac Swed
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brick, NJ 08724
My experience lies in working with clients dealing with various challenges, such as recurrent depressive thoughts, frequent anxiety, panic attacks, past traumatic experiences, emotional instability, overwhelming stress, and communication difficulties. I work with both adults and children, as well as families, with a focus on boosting emotional awareness, teaching parenting skills, and establishing healthy relationship boundaries.
My experience lies in working with clients dealing with various challenges, such as recurrent depressive thoughts, frequent anxiety, panic attacks, past traumatic experiences, emotional instability, overwhelming stress, and communication difficulties. I work with both adults and children, as well as families, with a focus on boosting emotional awareness, teaching parenting skills, and establishing healthy relationship boundaries.
(732) 724-0391 View (732) 724-0391
Photo of Eli Muhrer - Charlie Health
Charlie Health
Verified Verified
Lakewood, NJ 08701  (Online Only)
Charlie Health is a leading provider of virtual mental health treatment for people in need of more than once-weekly therapy. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or any ongoing mental health issue, Charlie Health’s Clinical Team is ready to help you start your healing journey today. You don’t have to struggle alone – we’re here for you. To get started today, reach out at t.ly/ch-nj
Charlie Health is a leading provider of virtual mental health treatment for people in need of more than once-weekly therapy. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or any ongoing mental health issue, Charlie Health’s Clinical Team is ready to help you start your healing journey today. You don’t have to struggle alone – we’re here for you. To get started today, reach out at t.ly/ch-nj
(973) 319-8458 View (973) 319-8458
Photo of Clifford Barneman, PsyD, Psychologist
Clifford Barneman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Forked River, NJ 08731  (Online Only)
Dr. Barneman is a graduate of Rutgers University, Graduate School of Applied and Professional Psychology (GSAPP), where he studied clinical, industrial-organizational and school psychology. He is a licensed psychologist who utilizes cognitive-behavioral (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Motivation Enhancement Therapy (MET) approaches to his therapeutic interventions. Dr. Barneman’s clinical interests include behavioral treatment of anxiety and mood disorders, developmental disabilities, ADHD, and sports psychology. He provides ongoing care to business leaders, and professional, collegiate, and student athletes.
Dr. Barneman is a graduate of Rutgers University, Graduate School of Applied and Professional Psychology (GSAPP), where he studied clinical, industrial-organizational and school psychology. He is a licensed psychologist who utilizes cognitive-behavioral (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Motivation Enhancement Therapy (MET) approaches to his therapeutic interventions. Dr. Barneman’s clinical interests include behavioral treatment of anxiety and mood disorders, developmental disabilities, ADHD, and sports psychology. He provides ongoing care to business leaders, and professional, collegiate, and student athletes.
(640) 227-3971 View (640) 227-3971

Online Therapists

Photo of Joshua Massler, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Joshua Massler
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Livingston, NJ 07039
Massler has worked closely with children, adolescents and adults diagnosed with a myriad of disorders including but not limited to the following: Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Self-Esteem Issues, Adjustment Related Concerns, and Marital/Relationship Issues.
Dr. Joshua M. Massler is a licensed clinical psychologist practicing in the state of New Jersey. He received his doctorate degree from NYU Steinhardt School of Education in Applied Psychology, with a specialization in child and adolescent psychology and graduated with honors. Dr. Massler established his own private practice in 2003 and has since become one of the most sought after clinical psychologists in New Jersey and has been featured in numerous media publications. Dr. Massler is wholly committed to every child, adolescent and adult he treats and provides unparalleled attention to every patient he works with.
Massler has worked closely with children, adolescents and adults diagnosed with a myriad of disorders including but not limited to the following: Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Self-Esteem Issues, Adjustment Related Concerns, and Marital/Relationship Issues.
Dr. Joshua M. Massler is a licensed clinical psychologist practicing in the state of New Jersey. He received his doctorate degree from NYU Steinhardt School of Education in Applied Psychology, with a specialization in child and adolescent psychology and graduated with honors. Dr. Massler established his own private practice in 2003 and has since become one of the most sought after clinical psychologists in New Jersey and has been featured in numerous media publications. Dr. Massler is wholly committed to every child, adolescent and adult he treats and provides unparalleled attention to every patient he works with.
(973) 552-2008 View (973) 552-2008
Photo of Dr. Stacey Cohen-Meissner, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Stacey Cohen-Meissner
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Tenafly, NJ 07670
I work to help my clients achieve their optimal state of achievement, comfort, and happiness. I use cognitive and behavioral therapy techniques in a supportive environment to assist my clients in overcoming anxiety, depression, bipolar symptoms, and obsessive compulsive behaviors, eating disorders, among other issues. I also conduct various types of psychological evaluations, including: forensic psychological evaluations, immigration exemption evaluations, adoption assessments, and clearance for bariatric and spinal cord surgeries.
I work to help my clients achieve their optimal state of achievement, comfort, and happiness. I use cognitive and behavioral therapy techniques in a supportive environment to assist my clients in overcoming anxiety, depression, bipolar symptoms, and obsessive compulsive behaviors, eating disorders, among other issues. I also conduct various types of psychological evaluations, including: forensic psychological evaluations, immigration exemption evaluations, adoption assessments, and clearance for bariatric and spinal cord surgeries.
(201) 877-5483 View (201) 877-5483
Photo of Maureen C Kelley, PsyD, Psychologist
Maureen C Kelley
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Ramsey, NJ 07446
As a licensed psychologist for 19 years, I'm devoted to the treatment of children, adolescents, adults, and families. I've worked in various medical and educational settings and am licensed in NJ, NY and FL. I treat children, adolescents, and adults with a broad range of psychological and behavioral disorders, including: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, school refusal, divorce, adolescent issues, & behavior disorders. I am skilled in psychological testing of children, adolescents, and their families and conduct psychoeducational evaluations for school placement. I am available for in-person and virtual sessions.
As a licensed psychologist for 19 years, I'm devoted to the treatment of children, adolescents, adults, and families. I've worked in various medical and educational settings and am licensed in NJ, NY and FL. I treat children, adolescents, and adults with a broad range of psychological and behavioral disorders, including: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, school refusal, divorce, adolescent issues, & behavior disorders. I am skilled in psychological testing of children, adolescents, and their families and conduct psychoeducational evaluations for school placement. I am available for in-person and virtual sessions.
(201) 327-0844 View (201) 327-0844
Photo of Michael D Zito, PhD, Psychologist
Michael D Zito
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Watchung, NJ 07069
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 Barbara Couvadelli, PhD, Psychologist
Barbara Couvadelli
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Iselin, NJ 08830
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 Kim Groves, PsyD, Psychologist
Kim Groves
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cherry Hill, NJ 08003
If you have found yourself in a pattern of unhealthy relationships or behaviors and have struggled with behavior change, my approach to treatment will likely be a good fit. Finding the right "fit" with a therapist can be a challenging process and is often one of the most important ingredients for successful outcomes. I have experience in working with anxiety disorders, personality disorders, depression/ bipolar disorder, OCD, and adjustment disorders. I conduct formal psychological evaluations for diagnostic clarification/treatment planning, as part of pre-surgical clearance, and domestic and international pre-adoption evaluations.
If you have found yourself in a pattern of unhealthy relationships or behaviors and have struggled with behavior change, my approach to treatment will likely be a good fit. Finding the right "fit" with a therapist can be a challenging process and is often one of the most important ingredients for successful outcomes. I have experience in working with anxiety disorders, personality disorders, depression/ bipolar disorder, OCD, and adjustment disorders. I conduct formal psychological evaluations for diagnostic clarification/treatment planning, as part of pre-surgical clearance, and domestic and international pre-adoption evaluations.
(856) 408-1131 View (856) 408-1131
Photo of Lidia Abrams, PhD, DpREBT, Psychologist
Lidia Abrams
Psychologist, PhD, DpREBT
Verified Verified
Clifton, NJ 07013
I enjoy working with clients with a variety of challenges, such as adjustment disorders, divorce and separation, depression, anxiety and panic, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder or various personality disorders. I have a rational and humanistic approach.
I enjoy working with clients with a variety of challenges, such as adjustment disorders, divorce and separation, depression, anxiety and panic, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder or various personality disorders. I have a rational and humanistic approach.
(201) 627-9495 View (201) 627-9495
Photo of Dawn Raffa, PhD, Psychologist
Dawn Raffa
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Pennington, NJ 08534
Specialties include depression, anxiety/panic disorders, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, personality disorders, women's issues, ADHD, and behavioral/academic difficulties.
I provide an empathetic, supportive and caring atmosphere to assist my clients in developing trust to work collaboratively on finding realistic solutions to their problems using evidence based treatment. My treatment approaches include CBT, ACT and ERP for individuals suffering from various disorders and psychological distress. In addition, to psychotherapy, I conduct psychological evaluations/testing, psychoeducational testing, ADHD evaluations, independent medical evaluations and biofeedback. Moreover, I have a background with PIP and workman's comprehension clients as well as with parent coordination.
Specialties include depression, anxiety/panic disorders, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, personality disorders, women's issues, ADHD, and behavioral/academic difficulties.
I provide an empathetic, supportive and caring atmosphere to assist my clients in developing trust to work collaboratively on finding realistic solutions to their problems using evidence based treatment. My treatment approaches include CBT, ACT and ERP for individuals suffering from various disorders and psychological distress. In addition, to psychotherapy, I conduct psychological evaluations/testing, psychoeducational testing, ADHD evaluations, independent medical evaluations and biofeedback. Moreover, I have a background with PIP and workman's comprehension clients as well as with parent coordination.
(609) 997-9708 View (609) 997-9708
Photo of Sonia Singh, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sonia Singh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jersey City, NJ 07302
A happier and healthier version of you can soon be your reality. Are you seeking growth and change in your life and finding it difficult? Are you or a loved on struggling with managing your emotions in healthy ways these days? Are life’s stressors or life transitions making it difficult for you to adjust and cope? Do you feel lost, sad, worried or unhappy with how things are currently going in your life? Do you or one of your loved ones cope with unhealthy behaviors, an addiction or substance abuse problem and you think it is time for a change? Are you seeking an alternative pathway to healing your inner self? You can get help.
A happier and healthier version of you can soon be your reality. Are you seeking growth and change in your life and finding it difficult? Are you or a loved on struggling with managing your emotions in healthy ways these days? Are life’s stressors or life transitions making it difficult for you to adjust and cope? Do you feel lost, sad, worried or unhappy with how things are currently going in your life? Do you or one of your loved ones cope with unhealthy behaviors, an addiction or substance abuse problem and you think it is time for a change? Are you seeking an alternative pathway to healing your inner self? You can get help.
(201) 730-6158 View (201) 730-6158
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.