Bipolar Disorder Psychiatrists in Gloucester City, NJ

Photo of Yahaya Animashaun - Victory Psych Consultation Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, - BC, MA
Victory Psych Consultation Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, - BC, MA
Serves Area
We specialize in caring for the most common psychiatric conditions that include; Depression, Insomnia, Anxiety, Panic disorder, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, OCD, ADD/ADHD, Trauma-focused treatment, Substance Abuse, & Dual Diagnosis.
I am a Board-Certified Advanced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I have been providing proficient psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, and treating diverse psychiatric conditions across the lifespan since June 2021. I provide initial assessments and follow-ups, medication management, hospital ER psychiatric liaison consultation, and collaborative care. I have over twenty-five years of experience in psychiatric nursing care, managing patients with mental health crises, and caring for clients in both short and long-term settings. My professional strengths include the use of evidence-based treatment approaches.
We specialize in caring for the most common psychiatric conditions that include; Depression, Insomnia, Anxiety, Panic disorder, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, OCD, ADD/ADHD, Trauma-focused treatment, Substance Abuse, & Dual Diagnosis.
I am a Board-Certified Advanced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I have been providing proficient psychiatric assessment, diagnosis, and treating diverse psychiatric conditions across the lifespan since June 2021. I provide initial assessments and follow-ups, medication management, hospital ER psychiatric liaison consultation, and collaborative care. I have over twenty-five years of experience in psychiatric nursing care, managing patients with mental health crises, and caring for clients in both short and long-term settings. My professional strengths include the use of evidence-based treatment approaches.
(856) 475-6213 View (856) 475-6213
Photo of Jacquelyn R Zagone, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, -BC
Jacquelyn R Zagone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, -BC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My name is Jacky, and I specialize in the treatment of PTSD, Anxiety, Panic Disorders, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, and Substance and Alcohol Use Disorder.
My goal is to empower patients through their struggles and aid them in developing healthy, practical and effective coping skills. I utilize an evidence-based, trauma-informed, eclectic approach. I incorporate a variety of treatment modalities, including medication management, psychotherapy, exercise, stress management & lifestyle modifications.
My name is Jacky, and I specialize in the treatment of PTSD, Anxiety, Panic Disorders, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, and Substance and Alcohol Use Disorder.
My goal is to empower patients through their struggles and aid them in developing healthy, practical and effective coping skills. I utilize an evidence-based, trauma-informed, eclectic approach. I incorporate a variety of treatment modalities, including medication management, psychotherapy, exercise, stress management & lifestyle modifications.
(856) 529-0236 View (856) 529-0236
Photo of Melissa Mecka, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Melissa Mecka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Online Only
Hi, my name is Melissa and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner based in New Jersey. I specialize in older adults 65+, middle-age life transitions, perimenopause and menopausal anxiety/depression and maternal mental health with an emphasis on individualized therapy and a holistic approach to care. I have been a board certified registered nurse for 29 years, a board certified Advanced Practice Nurse since 2000, and completed my post master’s degree in Psychiatry in 2021. Together with my colleagues at Lavender Psychiatry, I’m on a mission to create a world where feelings are felt, respected and cared for.
Hi, my name is Melissa and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner based in New Jersey. I specialize in older adults 65+, middle-age life transitions, perimenopause and menopausal anxiety/depression and maternal mental health with an emphasis on individualized therapy and a holistic approach to care. I have been a board certified registered nurse for 29 years, a board certified Advanced Practice Nurse since 2000, and completed my post master’s degree in Psychiatry in 2021. Together with my colleagues at Lavender Psychiatry, I’m on a mission to create a world where feelings are felt, respected and cared for.
(201) 729-3861 View (201) 729-3861
Photo of Dr. Tony Issac, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Tony Issac
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Dr. Issac is an experienced addiction and general psychiatrist with eight years of experience. He has helped many overcome their mental health challenges. Issac evaluates, diagnoses, and treats people based on their medical pathology, nutritional, and hormonal health. People suffering from addictions, or with other mental health challenges, such as anxiety, and depression, can recover with the correct diagnosis and treatment. Combining medications with psychotherapy, Dr. Issac considers various medical factors to treat his patients; he plans comprehensive treatments. His warmth and compassion are welcoming and supportive.
Dr. Issac is an experienced addiction and general psychiatrist with eight years of experience. He has helped many overcome their mental health challenges. Issac evaluates, diagnoses, and treats people based on their medical pathology, nutritional, and hormonal health. People suffering from addictions, or with other mental health challenges, such as anxiety, and depression, can recover with the correct diagnosis and treatment. Combining medications with psychotherapy, Dr. Issac considers various medical factors to treat his patients; he plans comprehensive treatments. His warmth and compassion are welcoming and supportive.
(973) 564-0829 View (973) 564-0829

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Angela Davis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Angela Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP
Barrington, NJ 08007
If you have been suffering with issues such as anxiety, depression, bipolar, attention deficit/hyperactivity, past trauma, insomnia or sleep disturbances, peer/social issues, or just don't' feel yourself, contact me.
Ideally my patient is invested in their treatment as much a I am. I offer medication management, as well therapy. My patients want to feel heard and seek treatment that is evidenced based that meets ones specific needs.
If you have been suffering with issues such as anxiety, depression, bipolar, attention deficit/hyperactivity, past trauma, insomnia or sleep disturbances, peer/social issues, or just don't' feel yourself, contact me.
Ideally my patient is invested in their treatment as much a I am. I offer medication management, as well therapy. My patients want to feel heard and seek treatment that is evidenced based that meets ones specific needs.
(609) 710-7817 View (609) 710-7817
Photo of Dr. Edna Hiers, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-, BC
Dr. Edna Hiers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-, BC
Online Only
Hiers works in several facilities and agencies where she is contracted to treat patients with schizophrenia, bipolar spectrum, depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, body dysmorphia, eating disorders, ADHD, amongst other disorders.
We create a safe space for clients to get their mental health needs met. Seeking mental health care is not a sign of weakness. It is a form of strength. Our doctoral-level psychiatric nurse practitioner, Dr. Edna Hiers, focuses on the whole person. Her style is addressing the whole person while focusing on how the mental, physical, spiritual, and psychosocial aspects of an individual contributes to their mental wellness which is the key to diagnosis. She strives to provide high quality of care by actively listening to the needs of her clients and by providing psychiatric evaluations, therapy, medication management, referrals.
Hiers works in several facilities and agencies where she is contracted to treat patients with schizophrenia, bipolar spectrum, depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, body dysmorphia, eating disorders, ADHD, amongst other disorders.
We create a safe space for clients to get their mental health needs met. Seeking mental health care is not a sign of weakness. It is a form of strength. Our doctoral-level psychiatric nurse practitioner, Dr. Edna Hiers, focuses on the whole person. Her style is addressing the whole person while focusing on how the mental, physical, spiritual, and psychosocial aspects of an individual contributes to their mental wellness which is the key to diagnosis. She strives to provide high quality of care by actively listening to the needs of her clients and by providing psychiatric evaluations, therapy, medication management, referrals.
(732) 795-5227 View (732) 795-5227
Photo of Chinyere Ubah, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Chinyere Ubah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Online Only
I work with clients who may be struggling with anxiety, bipolar disorder, or depression.
Chinyere Ubah is a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with a graduate degree (FNP) from Rutgers University, New Jersey , and a postmaster’s certification (PMHNP) from Wilmington University, Delaware . She provides compassionate care to people living and working in New Jersey. She has experience in multiple settings, working with children, adolescents and adults facing various mental health challenges. She provides a personalized and evidence-based medication treatment that is designed to deliver the most optimal mental health outcome for her clients.
I work with clients who may be struggling with anxiety, bipolar disorder, or depression.
Chinyere Ubah is a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner with a graduate degree (FNP) from Rutgers University, New Jersey , and a postmaster’s certification (PMHNP) from Wilmington University, Delaware . She provides compassionate care to people living and working in New Jersey. She has experience in multiple settings, working with children, adolescents and adults facing various mental health challenges. She provides a personalized and evidence-based medication treatment that is designed to deliver the most optimal mental health outcome for her clients.
(856) 545-0328 View (856) 545-0328
Photo of Loretta N Oguonu - LACKA Behavioral Health LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP-B
LACKA Behavioral Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP-B
Serves Area
I maintain LACKA Behavioral Health, a private owned practice which specializes in the treatment of younger adults and older adults with a broad range of mental health issues including anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorders, impulsivity, and many more.
LACKA Behavioral Health is an integrative mental and behavioral health practice in New Jersey where healing, hope, and empowerment starts. My aim is to provide a high-quality, comprehensive, compassionate, and patient-centered care utilizing evidence-based practices to achieve body, mind, spiritual balance, and maintain optimal health for my clients.
I maintain LACKA Behavioral Health, a private owned practice which specializes in the treatment of younger adults and older adults with a broad range of mental health issues including anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorders, impulsivity, and many more.
LACKA Behavioral Health is an integrative mental and behavioral health practice in New Jersey where healing, hope, and empowerment starts. My aim is to provide a high-quality, comprehensive, compassionate, and patient-centered care utilizing evidence-based practices to achieve body, mind, spiritual balance, and maintain optimal health for my clients.
(609) 445-3794 View (609) 445-3794
Photo of Sherie Reed, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Sherie Reed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
I treat a range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and more.
Welcome! I am Sherie Reed a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to supporting individuals on their mental health journey. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and personalized treatment plans tailored to each individual’s unique needs. With a compassionate, client-centered approach, I work collaboratively with clients to manage conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and more. My goal is to create a safe, supportive environment where clients feel empowered to achieve mental wellness and improve their quality of life.
I treat a range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and more.
Welcome! I am Sherie Reed a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) dedicated to supporting individuals on their mental health journey. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and personalized treatment plans tailored to each individual’s unique needs. With a compassionate, client-centered approach, I work collaboratively with clients to manage conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and more. My goal is to create a safe, supportive environment where clients feel empowered to achieve mental wellness and improve their quality of life.
(856) 492-6047 View (856) 492-6047
Photo of Olasumbo Joseph Oladeru - Iconichealth LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APN
Iconichealth LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
A graduate of Monmouth University and Immaculata University, Joseph is experienced in providing treatment for addictions and psychiatric disorders including depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and opioid addictions.
Meet Olasumbo Joseph Oladeru, the founder of Iconic Health Services and licensed Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management for adults and youth aged 12 and older. Joseph specializes in treating people who struggle with: •Addiction •Anxiety •Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) •Bipoplar
A graduate of Monmouth University and Immaculata University, Joseph is experienced in providing treatment for addictions and psychiatric disorders including depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and opioid addictions.
Meet Olasumbo Joseph Oladeru, the founder of Iconic Health Services and licensed Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management for adults and youth aged 12 and older. Joseph specializes in treating people who struggle with: •Addiction •Anxiety •Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) •Bipoplar
(609) 245-5069 View (609) 245-5069
Photo of Nadia Marcelin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Nadia Marcelin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in anxiety, bipolar disorder, and medication management.
My name is Nadia Marcelin, I’m a long time resident of NJ where I live with my husband and my teenage daughter. I’m very passionate about providing care for my patients in an environment that is conducive to healing. I’m a compassionate provider with six years plus experiences in inpatients care with diverse mental issues. I pride myself in treating my patients as individuals and not as a case. I strongly believe that wellness and rehabilitation is a team effort between all parties involved. I value and seek to understand my patients’ needs so we can develop a working relationship based on trust, mutual respects and honesty.
I specialize in anxiety, bipolar disorder, and medication management.
My name is Nadia Marcelin, I’m a long time resident of NJ where I live with my husband and my teenage daughter. I’m very passionate about providing care for my patients in an environment that is conducive to healing. I’m a compassionate provider with six years plus experiences in inpatients care with diverse mental issues. I pride myself in treating my patients as individuals and not as a case. I strongly believe that wellness and rehabilitation is a team effort between all parties involved. I value and seek to understand my patients’ needs so we can develop a working relationship based on trust, mutual respects and honesty.
(856) 888-4935 View (856) 888-4935
Photo of Rebecca Goldman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN
Rebecca Goldman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Binge Eating Disorders and OCD.
At Lavender, we provide a range of modern mental health services from the comfort of home. All our providers offer both medication management & therapy in a single appointment to save you time and money. Pairing therapy and medication to treat depression and anxiety can help you feel better faster with a 60% improved chance of recovery.
I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Binge Eating Disorders and OCD.
At Lavender, we provide a range of modern mental health services from the comfort of home. All our providers offer both medication management & therapy in a single appointment to save you time and money. Pairing therapy and medication to treat depression and anxiety can help you feel better faster with a 60% improved chance of recovery.
(201) 581-8016 View (201) 581-8016
Photo of Doris Chukwu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APN-C
Doris Chukwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APN-C
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am specialized in diagnosing and providing medication management in clients who have depressive disorders, anxiety disorder , bipolar disorder, dissociative disorder, schizophrenia, substance abuse and many more.
Top Choice Medical Consult provides a wide range of psychiatric mental health services to a diverse client population. With over 10 years experience in psychiatric and mental health, my experience and educational background have prepared me in providing the required services for mental health needs. I utilize a comprehensive approach in formulating a patient's diagnosis and treatment plan. Our services includes providing detailed psychiatric evaluation, establishing appropriate diagnosis, working with the client in choosing individualized suitable treatment and therapy.
I am specialized in diagnosing and providing medication management in clients who have depressive disorders, anxiety disorder , bipolar disorder, dissociative disorder, schizophrenia, substance abuse and many more.
Top Choice Medical Consult provides a wide range of psychiatric mental health services to a diverse client population. With over 10 years experience in psychiatric and mental health, my experience and educational background have prepared me in providing the required services for mental health needs. I utilize a comprehensive approach in formulating a patient's diagnosis and treatment plan. Our services includes providing detailed psychiatric evaluation, establishing appropriate diagnosis, working with the client in choosing individualized suitable treatment and therapy.
(732) 733-6745 View (732) 733-6745
Photo of Nina Moore, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNPBC
Nina Moore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNPBC
Moorestown, NJ 08057
Patients often seek help with a variety of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
Nina can provide psychoeducation, prescribe medication (if needed), teach coping strategies, and facilitate access to support services such as therapy or community resources.
Patients often seek help with a variety of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
Nina can provide psychoeducation, prescribe medication (if needed), teach coping strategies, and facilitate access to support services such as therapy or community resources.
(856) 386-3330 View (856) 386-3330
Photo of Abiola Saba, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DrNP, PMHNP
Abiola Saba
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DrNP, PMHNP
Online Only
I specialize in providing compassionate, evidence-based care for mood disorders (anxiety, bipolar, depression), ADHD, OCD, personality disorders, trauma-related conditions (PTSD), Schizophrenia, and behavioral challenges.
At our first meeting, we will thoroughly assess your challenges and develop a tailored approach to improve stability, self-sufficiency, and overall well-being. My goal is to help you navigate your mental health journey with understanding, personalized care, and a treatment plan that fits your unique needs.
I specialize in providing compassionate, evidence-based care for mood disorders (anxiety, bipolar, depression), ADHD, OCD, personality disorders, trauma-related conditions (PTSD), Schizophrenia, and behavioral challenges.
At our first meeting, we will thoroughly assess your challenges and develop a tailored approach to improve stability, self-sufficiency, and overall well-being. My goal is to help you navigate your mental health journey with understanding, personalized care, and a treatment plan that fits your unique needs.
(856) 481-8872 View (856) 481-8872
Photo of Beatrice O Mebude - Mercy Throne Behavioral Health institute LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, -BC
Mercy Throne Behavioral Health institute LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNP, -BC
Online Only
I have experience treating children and adults with various diagnoses, including depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, PTSD, sleep disorder and medication management.
I am Beatrice Mebude a board certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 22 years experience as a certified psychiatric mental health nurse and family psychiatric nurse practitioner in the community. I understands that mental wellbeing is essential for a fulfilling and meaningful life. Therefore I have dedicated my practice to provide comprehensive services tailored to each individual's unique needs.
I have experience treating children and adults with various diagnoses, including depression, anxiety, bipolar, ADHD, PTSD, sleep disorder and medication management.
I am Beatrice Mebude a board certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 22 years experience as a certified psychiatric mental health nurse and family psychiatric nurse practitioner in the community. I understands that mental wellbeing is essential for a fulfilling and meaningful life. Therefore I have dedicated my practice to provide comprehensive services tailored to each individual's unique needs.
(908) 504-7334 View (908) 504-7334
Photo of Jake Rosenberg, Psychiatrist, MD
Jake Rosenberg
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Areas of focus include ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, bipolar, addiction, and psychosis.
Working alongside your therapist and doctors, we will create a personalized treatment plan to improve mood, energy, focus, happiness, sleep, and appetite.
Areas of focus include ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, bipolar, addiction, and psychosis.
Working alongside your therapist and doctors, we will create a personalized treatment plan to improve mood, energy, focus, happiness, sleep, and appetite.
(856) 712-1798 View (856) 712-1798
Photo of Loretta Sernekos, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PhD
Loretta Sernekos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PhD
2 Endorsed
Online Only
She treats Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Affective Disorder and ADHD.
Dr. Loretta Sernekos, PhD, CRNP of Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates, provides holistic, empathic, and evidence-based care to her patients. Her prior experience as a nurse practitioner in outpatient primary care informs her thinking regarding psychiatric conditions and their relationship to the whole person’s physical and emotional health. Her appointment as a Senior Lecturer, teaching pharmacology and pathophysiology at the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing allows her to stay current with evidence-based diagnosis and treatment of psychiatric conditions, as well as other medical conditions.
She treats Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Affective Disorder and ADHD.
Dr. Loretta Sernekos, PhD, CRNP of Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates, provides holistic, empathic, and evidence-based care to her patients. Her prior experience as a nurse practitioner in outpatient primary care informs her thinking regarding psychiatric conditions and their relationship to the whole person’s physical and emotional health. Her appointment as a Senior Lecturer, teaching pharmacology and pathophysiology at the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing allows her to stay current with evidence-based diagnosis and treatment of psychiatric conditions, as well as other medical conditions.
(215) 987-4880 View (215) 987-4880
Photo of Elizabeth Wray, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Elizabeth Wray
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Treatment for Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder and ADHD.
Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, licensed to evaluate and medically manage anxiety disorders, mood disorders, ADHD and various other psychiatric conditions.
Treatment for Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder and ADHD.
Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, licensed to evaluate and medically manage anxiety disorders, mood disorders, ADHD and various other psychiatric conditions.
(484) 469-9242 View (484) 469-9242
Photo of Dr. Rafia Grooms, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, BC
Dr. Rafia Grooms
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, BC
Sewell, NJ 08080
I specialize in treating a wide range of mental health conditions (anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, bipolar, schizophrenia, and mood disorders).
My ideal client may be dealing with complex mental health issues or facing challenges related to their overall well-being. They might need support with medication management, thorough evaluations, or guidance in navigating their mental health journey. Their goals are to achieve a healthier, more balanced life and to improve their mental health. They want clear communication, patient education, and effective care to overcome their struggles and enhance their quality of life.
I specialize in treating a wide range of mental health conditions (anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, bipolar, schizophrenia, and mood disorders).
My ideal client may be dealing with complex mental health issues or facing challenges related to their overall well-being. They might need support with medication management, thorough evaluations, or guidance in navigating their mental health journey. Their goals are to achieve a healthier, more balanced life and to improve their mental health. They want clear communication, patient education, and effective care to overcome their struggles and enhance their quality of life.
(856) 276-5133 View (856) 276-5133

See more therapy options for Gloucester City

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.