Bipolar Disorder Psychiatrists in Fort Lee, NJ

Photo of Embodied Mind LLC, Psychiatrist in Fort Lee, NJ
Embodied Mind LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Fort Lee, NJ 07024  (Online Only)
As clinically indicated, we utilize pharmacology to treat Depression, Panic Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Phobia, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Attention Deficit Disorder, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective and Delusional Disorders, Opioid Use Disorder, and Alcohol Use Disorder.
We accept all Medicaid HMO plans and Medicare in the state of New Jersey. Telepsychiatry is offered anywhere in NJ. Call or email us and see if we are the right fit for you. We provide compassionate and holistic care to our patients. We are dedicated to improving your mental health and overall well-being. In order to do that, we focus on the connection between your mind, body, and spirit. When treating individuals inflicted with mental suffering, we utilize an evidence-based approach to treating a whole person. That means we will take into consideration your physical, emotional, and spiritual health to restore your well-being.
As clinically indicated, we utilize pharmacology to treat Depression, Panic Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Phobia, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Attention Deficit Disorder, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective and Delusional Disorders, Opioid Use Disorder, and Alcohol Use Disorder.
We accept all Medicaid HMO plans and Medicare in the state of New Jersey. Telepsychiatry is offered anywhere in NJ. Call or email us and see if we are the right fit for you. We provide compassionate and holistic care to our patients. We are dedicated to improving your mental health and overall well-being. In order to do that, we focus on the connection between your mind, body, and spirit. When treating individuals inflicted with mental suffering, we utilize an evidence-based approach to treating a whole person. That means we will take into consideration your physical, emotional, and spiritual health to restore your well-being.
(201) 801-5259 View (201) 801-5259
Photo of Lizzet I. Garcia MD 718-499-2925, Psychiatrist in Fort Lee, NJ
Lizzet I. Garcia MD 718-499-2925
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Fort Lee, NJ 07024
I treat mood and affective disorders including bipolar disorder, cyclothymia, rapid cycling, mixed episodes, depression, schizophrenia, psychotic episodes, generalized anxiety disorders, panic disorder, OCD, body dysmorphic disorder, somatization disorder, hypochondriasis, eating disorder, child hood disorders, ADHD, ADD, ODD, and a variety of personality disorders and much more.
Hi, I am a medical doctor with a specialty in Adult Psychiatry with a sub-specialty in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I am also a psychoanalyst and pursuing a post-doctoral fellowship in Psychodynamic Psychoanalysis at the Psychoanalytic Institute at Columbia University. I am also a Public Psychiatry Fellow at Columbia University. My training has enabled me to have expertise in psychopharmacology and also patient centered care with focus on primary psychiatric diagnosis and personality disorders. Now treating office based opioid use disorder with buprenorphine.
I treat mood and affective disorders including bipolar disorder, cyclothymia, rapid cycling, mixed episodes, depression, schizophrenia, psychotic episodes, generalized anxiety disorders, panic disorder, OCD, body dysmorphic disorder, somatization disorder, hypochondriasis, eating disorder, child hood disorders, ADHD, ADD, ODD, and a variety of personality disorders and much more.
Hi, I am a medical doctor with a specialty in Adult Psychiatry with a sub-specialty in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I am also a psychoanalyst and pursuing a post-doctoral fellowship in Psychodynamic Psychoanalysis at the Psychoanalytic Institute at Columbia University. I am also a Public Psychiatry Fellow at Columbia University. My training has enabled me to have expertise in psychopharmacology and also patient centered care with focus on primary psychiatric diagnosis and personality disorders. Now treating office based opioid use disorder with buprenorphine.
(347) 767-5577 View (347) 767-5577
Photo of Hello Psychiatry LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Fort Lee, NJ
Hello Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Lee, NJ 07024  (Online Only)
Whether it's a whisper of anxiety or a roar of depression, Reese specializes in mood disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, and trauma, as well as emotional and behavioral disorders.
Feeling alone in your struggles with depression, anxiety, or bipolar? You're not. At Hello Psychiatry, we understand the invisible weight you carry. Our board-certified psychiatric provider, Reese, is here to listen without judgment and guide you toward a brighter future.
Whether it's a whisper of anxiety or a roar of depression, Reese specializes in mood disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, and trauma, as well as emotional and behavioral disorders.
Feeling alone in your struggles with depression, anxiety, or bipolar? You're not. At Hello Psychiatry, we understand the invisible weight you carry. Our board-certified psychiatric provider, Reese, is here to listen without judgment and guide you toward a brighter future.
(551) 209-3506 View (551) 209-3506
Photo of Hong Kim, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Fort Lee, NJ
Hong Kim
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP-P, BC
Verified Verified
Fort Lee, NJ 07024  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric NP, trained at New York University. I specialize in adults, children, adolescents, and geriatrics. My virtual and in-person practices are friendly and confidential spaces where I provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation and personalized medication management. My approach is to always see things from the client’s perspective. My mission is to support my clients while they create more meaningful progress in life. I use my expertise to help them find harmony between mind and body. I think mental health care can be a spiritual, and yet a scientific way for the client to look into their soul.
I am a board-certified psychiatric NP, trained at New York University. I specialize in adults, children, adolescents, and geriatrics. My virtual and in-person practices are friendly and confidential spaces where I provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation and personalized medication management. My approach is to always see things from the client’s perspective. My mission is to support my clients while they create more meaningful progress in life. I use my expertise to help them find harmony between mind and body. I think mental health care can be a spiritual, and yet a scientific way for the client to look into their soul.
(201) 969-5923 View (201) 969-5923
Photo of Takashi Matsuki, Psychiatrist in Fort Lee, NJ
Takashi Matsuki
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Fort Lee, NJ 07024
I am a board-certified psychiatrist trained in both medication management and psychotherapy to treat a wide variety of psychiatric disorders. Prior to pursuing a career in psychiatry and psychotherapy in the U.S., I also had formal training and extensive clinical experience in primary care medicine in Japan.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist trained in both medication management and psychotherapy to treat a wide variety of psychiatric disorders. Prior to pursuing a career in psychiatry and psychotherapy in the U.S., I also had formal training and extensive clinical experience in primary care medicine in Japan.
(201) 977-6521 View (201) 977-6521
Photo of Bridget Pepe, Physician Assistant in Fort Lee, NJ
Bridget Pepe
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Fort Lee, NJ 07024  (Online Only)
Tri America welcomes Bridget Pepe PA-C, CAQ-psychiatry who is a graduate of PA King’s College in Wilkes Barre, PA in 2019. From there Bridget has completed residency at the Michael E. Debakey VA Medical Center in Houston, Texas. Once graduated Bridget has returned to NJ and has been practicing both inpatient and outpatient psychiatry and treats clients with diagnoses from anxiety, to depression, to psychosis, and all in between.
Tri America welcomes Bridget Pepe PA-C, CAQ-psychiatry who is a graduate of PA King’s College in Wilkes Barre, PA in 2019. From there Bridget has completed residency at the Michael E. Debakey VA Medical Center in Houston, Texas. Once graduated Bridget has returned to NJ and has been practicing both inpatient and outpatient psychiatry and treats clients with diagnoses from anxiety, to depression, to psychosis, and all in between.
(551) 296-7156 View (551) 296-7156
Photo of Yuli Fradkin, Psychiatrist in Fort Lee, NJ
Yuli Fradkin
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Fort Lee, NJ 07024
I started my career as a child psychiatrist and a researcher 20 years ago. I was interested not only in biological basis of mental disorders, but in psychotherapy and the concept of change. Upon immigration to the US, I studied among influential psychiatrists and therapists in New York and Boston. Currently I work in inpatient and outpatient settings, supervise medical students, and conduct psychiatric research. As I have been for the past 20 years, I am still fascinated with the amazing, complex process of individual development.
I started my career as a child psychiatrist and a researcher 20 years ago. I was interested not only in biological basis of mental disorders, but in psychotherapy and the concept of change. Upon immigration to the US, I studied among influential psychiatrists and therapists in New York and Boston. Currently I work in inpatient and outpatient settings, supervise medical students, and conduct psychiatric research. As I have been for the past 20 years, I am still fascinated with the amazing, complex process of individual development.
(646) 791-2766 View (646) 791-2766
Photo of Leena Rajagopal, Psychiatrist in Fort Lee, NJ
Leena Rajagopal
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Lee, NJ 07024
Hi, I am a board certified general adult and forensic psychiatrist. I have experience in treating patients with mental illness in a variety of settings. I am licensed in New Jersey and New York and offer telepsychiatry at this time. During these stressful times, some of you may have developed new onset depression and anxiety, whereas some may experience worsening of older conditions. Whether you are experiencing new onset or worsening depression, anxiety, mood fluctuations, interpersonal problems, or other serious symptoms; ultimately these prevent you from living your life to your fullest potential. I want to help you feel better.
Hi, I am a board certified general adult and forensic psychiatrist. I have experience in treating patients with mental illness in a variety of settings. I am licensed in New Jersey and New York and offer telepsychiatry at this time. During these stressful times, some of you may have developed new onset depression and anxiety, whereas some may experience worsening of older conditions. Whether you are experiencing new onset or worsening depression, anxiety, mood fluctuations, interpersonal problems, or other serious symptoms; ultimately these prevent you from living your life to your fullest potential. I want to help you feel better.
(551) 313-9551 View (551) 313-9551
Photo of Dr. Kyu Oh, Psychiatrist in Fort Lee, NJ
Dr. Kyu Oh
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Lee, NJ 07024
I am a board-certified psychiatrist and psychotherapist practicing in NY, NJ, and via telehealth. I completed psychiatry residency training at Columbia University and I am now an Instructor in Clinical Psychiatry at Columbia. I work with clients struggling with a wide range of mental health problems, including stress, life transitions, relationship difficulties, work and school issues. I specialize in both medication management and psychotherapy for the treatment of the following psychiatric conditions: anxiety, panic, depression, OCD, and adult ADHD.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist and psychotherapist practicing in NY, NJ, and via telehealth. I completed psychiatry residency training at Columbia University and I am now an Instructor in Clinical Psychiatry at Columbia. I work with clients struggling with a wide range of mental health problems, including stress, life transitions, relationship difficulties, work and school issues. I specialize in both medication management and psychotherapy for the treatment of the following psychiatric conditions: anxiety, panic, depression, OCD, and adult ADHD.
(646) 912-8774 View (646) 912-8774
Photo of Aykut Ozden, Psychiatrist in Fort Lee, NJ
Aykut Ozden
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Fort Lee, NJ 07024
I am a triple-board-certified child-adolescent, adult, and addiction psychiatrist. I worked at Mt. Sinai St. Luke's Roosevelt Hospital Center in NYC as a director. I am an assistant professor of clinical psychiatry at Rowan University now. I do psychiatric diagnostic assessments, and medication management including ketamine, vivitrol, suboxone, sublocade, as well as outpatient detox. I do accept all ages and most conditions. Please note that I see patients in Edgewater NJ or virtually. I am out of network for all insurances but will provide an invoice for you to submit.
I am a triple-board-certified child-adolescent, adult, and addiction psychiatrist. I worked at Mt. Sinai St. Luke's Roosevelt Hospital Center in NYC as a director. I am an assistant professor of clinical psychiatry at Rowan University now. I do psychiatric diagnostic assessments, and medication management including ketamine, vivitrol, suboxone, sublocade, as well as outpatient detox. I do accept all ages and most conditions. Please note that I see patients in Edgewater NJ or virtually. I am out of network for all insurances but will provide an invoice for you to submit.
(201) 220-5868 View (201) 220-5868
Photo of Seokkoon Cho, Psychiatrist in Fort Lee, NJ
Seokkoon Cho
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Fort Lee, NJ 07024
I am a truly caring, board certified psychiatrist, with extensive knowledge and experience in psychopharmacology. In order to bring peacefulness of mind and soul you desire and to ease your symptoms back to manageable levels, I believe it is essential to get the correct diagnosis and also the best treatments. I work with my clients to help them develop real comprehensive understanding using different approaches. I am experienced in several areas, including fatigue, pain syndrome, and insomnia, as well as anxiety, depression, ADHD, addictive behaviors of gambling, eating, alcohol, opiates, and other substances;
I am a truly caring, board certified psychiatrist, with extensive knowledge and experience in psychopharmacology. In order to bring peacefulness of mind and soul you desire and to ease your symptoms back to manageable levels, I believe it is essential to get the correct diagnosis and also the best treatments. I work with my clients to help them develop real comprehensive understanding using different approaches. I am experienced in several areas, including fatigue, pain syndrome, and insomnia, as well as anxiety, depression, ADHD, addictive behaviors of gambling, eating, alcohol, opiates, and other substances;
(201) 425-1130 View (201) 425-1130
New Jersey Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Fort Lee, NJ 07024
At New Jersey Wellness Center we specialize in the treatment of Substance Use disorder and Co-Occurring Mental Health Disorder. We are committed to treating the individual client and their families with caring, qualified professionals in the field of psychiatry, clinical alcohol and drug counseling, mental health, social work, education and recovery support. Our team of experts will address underlying causes of substance abuse and behavioral patterns to guide clients toward a successful and lasting recovery.
At New Jersey Wellness Center we specialize in the treatment of Substance Use disorder and Co-Occurring Mental Health Disorder. We are committed to treating the individual client and their families with caring, qualified professionals in the field of psychiatry, clinical alcohol and drug counseling, mental health, social work, education and recovery support. Our team of experts will address underlying causes of substance abuse and behavioral patterns to guide clients toward a successful and lasting recovery.
(201) 399-3640 View (201) 399-3640
Photo of Dongjin Kim NP in psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Fort Lee, NJ
Dongjin Kim NP in psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN
Verified Verified
Fort Lee, NJ 07024
My goal is your healthy well being. My passion is to assist you achieve your wellness leading to the goal of happiness. I am a board certified, licensed Psychiatric mental health NP in NY and NJ who can provide you with medication prescriptions and psychotherapy. I have been working in psychiatry since 2008 both in acute care hospitals and out-patient clinics, in NY and NJ. I see all age groups from children to adults including seniors over age 65.
My goal is your healthy well being. My passion is to assist you achieve your wellness leading to the goal of happiness. I am a board certified, licensed Psychiatric mental health NP in NY and NJ who can provide you with medication prescriptions and psychotherapy. I have been working in psychiatry since 2008 both in acute care hospitals and out-patient clinics, in NY and NJ. I see all age groups from children to adults including seniors over age 65.
(347) 966-7071 View (347) 966-7071
Photo of Caroline Bjorkman, Psychiatrist in Fort Lee, NJ
Caroline Bjorkman
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Fort Lee, NJ 07024
Dr. Caroline Bjorkman, at Mind Space Wellness, LLC, provides expert psychiatry services at locations in Fort Lee, New Jersey, and the Upper West Side area of Manhattan in New York City. Dr. Bjorkman completed her bachelor’s degree at St. Thomas Aquinas College in Sparkill, New York, before receiving her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from the New York Institute of Technology. She completed her residency and is attending physician at the Mount Sinai Health System across New York City. Dr. Bjorkman accepts most insurance providers. If you have specific questions regarding your coverage, please contact for additional information.
Dr. Caroline Bjorkman, at Mind Space Wellness, LLC, provides expert psychiatry services at locations in Fort Lee, New Jersey, and the Upper West Side area of Manhattan in New York City. Dr. Bjorkman completed her bachelor’s degree at St. Thomas Aquinas College in Sparkill, New York, before receiving her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from the New York Institute of Technology. She completed her residency and is attending physician at the Mount Sinai Health System across New York City. Dr. Bjorkman accepts most insurance providers. If you have specific questions regarding your coverage, please contact for additional information.
(646) 970-1321 View (646) 970-1321

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Justin K Paltrowitz, Psychiatrist in Fort Lee, NJ
Justin K Paltrowitz
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Englewood, NJ 07631
I'm a board certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist trained at the University of Michigan. I specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Behavioral Disorders, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Eating Disorders, Schizophrenia, and Personality Disorders, to name a few. By nature, I'm a warm, empathetic, and compassionate person who can often identify gaps in maladaptive thoughts and behaviors and guide others towards better outcomes.
I'm a board certified Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist trained at the University of Michigan. I specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Behavioral Disorders, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Eating Disorders, Schizophrenia, and Personality Disorders, to name a few. By nature, I'm a warm, empathetic, and compassionate person who can often identify gaps in maladaptive thoughts and behaviors and guide others towards better outcomes.
(201) 654-3865 View (201) 654-3865
Photo of Shani Stein, Psychiatrist in Fort Lee, NJ
Shani Stein
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Englewood, NJ 07632
I am a licensed adult Psychiatrist with over 12 years of experience in the treatment of Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorders, ADHD and Perinatal disorders. I offer both medication management and therapy in my practice. I am dedicated to helping my patients get back on their feet and helping them live a more happy and productive life.
I am a licensed adult Psychiatrist with over 12 years of experience in the treatment of Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorders, ADHD and Perinatal disorders. I offer both medication management and therapy in my practice. I am dedicated to helping my patients get back on their feet and helping them live a more happy and productive life.
(201) 992-4247 View (201) 992-4247
Photo of Westwood Psychiatry Associates , Psychiatrist in Fort Lee, NJ
Westwood Psychiatry Associates
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Englewood, NJ 07631
westwoodpsychnj.com - Check us out ! Our board-certified psychiatrists are committed to helping you on your journey to mental wellness. We recognize that mental illness is not a choice, but choosing to get help is. We offer years of experience in diagnosing/treating various mental health conditions such as adhd, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. Our family run practice is located in Westwood, NJ and proudly serves the Bergen County and northern suburbs. We offer both in person and virtual visits for those who have a busy schedule.
westwoodpsychnj.com - Check us out ! Our board-certified psychiatrists are committed to helping you on your journey to mental wellness. We recognize that mental illness is not a choice, but choosing to get help is. We offer years of experience in diagnosing/treating various mental health conditions such as adhd, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. Our family run practice is located in Westwood, NJ and proudly serves the Bergen County and northern suburbs. We offer both in person and virtual visits for those who have a busy schedule.
(201) 730-6963 View (201) 730-6963
Photo of TMR Mental Health Care PC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Fort Lee, NJ
TMR Mental Health Care PC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, OCN
Verified Verified
Englewood, NJ 07631
TMR is a comprehensive private practice. We offer psychopharmacology and psychotherapy to people of all ages. We offer psychotherapy to individuals, couples, and families. Our staff consists of a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Psychotherapists (Licensed Clinical Social Workers and Professional Counselors), Nutritionist, and Clinical Psychologists who perform psychological testing and evaluations.
TMR is a comprehensive private practice. We offer psychopharmacology and psychotherapy to people of all ages. We offer psychotherapy to individuals, couples, and families. Our staff consists of a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Psychotherapists (Licensed Clinical Social Workers and Professional Counselors), Nutritionist, and Clinical Psychologists who perform psychological testing and evaluations.
(551) 249-9701 View (551) 249-9701
Photo of Morton Fridman, Psychiatrist in Fort Lee, NJ
Morton Fridman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Englewood, NJ 07631  (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Child, Adolescent & Adult Psychiatrist & Psychoanalyst. As an M.D. & Psychoanalyst, I have the unique perspective offered by an appreciation of the interplay of mind & brain in influencing the human condition. I have been practicing for more than twenty years treating children, adolescents , adults, couples & families with psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, & medication for issues ranging from anxiety,mood difficulties, ADHD,marital discord & divorce to existential, personality & character issues. Please call & I will be glad to offer you the caring, humanistic approach I share with others.
I am a Board Certified Child, Adolescent & Adult Psychiatrist & Psychoanalyst. As an M.D. & Psychoanalyst, I have the unique perspective offered by an appreciation of the interplay of mind & brain in influencing the human condition. I have been practicing for more than twenty years treating children, adolescents , adults, couples & families with psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, & medication for issues ranging from anxiety,mood difficulties, ADHD,marital discord & divorce to existential, personality & character issues. Please call & I will be glad to offer you the caring, humanistic approach I share with others.
(201) 805-5974 View (201) 805-5974
Photo of Theresa Flanagan, Psychiatrist in Fort Lee, NJ
Theresa Flanagan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Teaneck, NJ 07666  (Online Only)
Dr. Flanagan is a child and adolescent psychiatrist who understands the challenges that children and their families face. With her compassionate and empathetic approach, she provides a holistic and comprehensive treatment plan that goes beyond just prescribing medication. Dr. Flanagan believes in the power of combining psychotherapy and parent guidance with medication management. She recognizes that mental health issues can have an impact on a child's daily life, and by addressing both the emotional and biological aspects, she aims to create lasting positive changes. What sets her apart understanding of lifestyle factors as well.
Dr. Flanagan is a child and adolescent psychiatrist who understands the challenges that children and their families face. With her compassionate and empathetic approach, she provides a holistic and comprehensive treatment plan that goes beyond just prescribing medication. Dr. Flanagan believes in the power of combining psychotherapy and parent guidance with medication management. She recognizes that mental health issues can have an impact on a child's daily life, and by addressing both the emotional and biological aspects, she aims to create lasting positive changes. What sets her apart understanding of lifestyle factors as well.
(201) 903-9520 View (201) 903-9520
Bipolar Disorder Psychiatrists

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.