Photo of Debra Meliodon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmington, DE
Debra Meliodon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPCMH
Verified Verified
Wilmington, DE 19810
Debbie completed her Bachelor's Degree in Behavioral Science and Master's Degree in Community Counseling from Wilmington University and has been working in the counseling field since 2003. She works with late teens and adults ranging in age from 18-65+. She has a broad range of clinical experience working in the following areas: Depression and Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Self Harm Behavior, Outpatient Substance Abuse and Relapse Prevention Programs as well as Crisis Intervention, Grief and Complicated Grief Reactions, Anger and Stress Management, Trauma and Abuse, Self-Image and Self-Esteem Issues.
Debbie completed her Bachelor's Degree in Behavioral Science and Master's Degree in Community Counseling from Wilmington University and has been working in the counseling field since 2003. She works with late teens and adults ranging in age from 18-65+. She has a broad range of clinical experience working in the following areas: Depression and Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Self Harm Behavior, Outpatient Substance Abuse and Relapse Prevention Programs as well as Crisis Intervention, Grief and Complicated Grief Reactions, Anger and Stress Management, Trauma and Abuse, Self-Image and Self-Esteem Issues.
(302) 587-7802 View (302) 587-7802
Photo of Recovery & Wellness LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmington, DE
Recovery & Wellness LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Wilmington, DE 19801  (Online Only)
My professional background includes providing intensive counseling services to victims/survivors of sexual assault, justice involved youth and adults; who may have struggled with low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, bipolar, crisis Intervention, domestic violence, behavior modification, substance abuse, family conflict and trauma.
Are you struggling with setting boundaries? forgiving? racing thoughts? highs and lows? Well if you are seeking change and your goal is learning to be self-ful (pouring into yourself first) then I am here to listen and support your needs while helping you discover your inner strength.
My professional background includes providing intensive counseling services to victims/survivors of sexual assault, justice involved youth and adults; who may have struggled with low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, bipolar, crisis Intervention, domestic violence, behavior modification, substance abuse, family conflict and trauma.
Are you struggling with setting boundaries? forgiving? racing thoughts? highs and lows? Well if you are seeking change and your goal is learning to be self-ful (pouring into yourself first) then I am here to listen and support your needs while helping you discover your inner strength.
(302) 343-3949 View (302) 343-3949
Photo of Jay Ann Jemail, Psychologist in Wilmington, DE
Jay Ann Jemail
Psychologist, PhD
Not Verified Not Verified
Wilmington, DE 19807
Her practice includes the following areas of expertise: individual adult issues, marital/sex therapy, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, personality issues, maladaptive coping, family therapy, work with children and adolescents, trauma and divorce.
The therapy process is a confidential relationship based on mutual respect and trust. The needs of the individual, couple, and family are addressed via traditional and alternative approaches. Dr. Jemail values good listening, kindness, a nonjudgmental approach and draws from the wisdom of research, experience, as well as, common sense. The goal is to promote healing, growth and independence. Therapy via Doxy, FaceTime or phone sessions are an option depending on circumstances. She will provide as needed support out of session. You can call or email Dr. Jemail to discuss your specific needs.
Her practice includes the following areas of expertise: individual adult issues, marital/sex therapy, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, personality issues, maladaptive coping, family therapy, work with children and adolescents, trauma and divorce.
The therapy process is a confidential relationship based on mutual respect and trust. The needs of the individual, couple, and family are addressed via traditional and alternative approaches. Dr. Jemail values good listening, kindness, a nonjudgmental approach and draws from the wisdom of research, experience, as well as, common sense. The goal is to promote healing, growth and independence. Therapy via Doxy, FaceTime or phone sessions are an option depending on circumstances. She will provide as needed support out of session. You can call or email Dr. Jemail to discuss your specific needs.
(302) 218-5008 View (302) 218-5008
Photo of Renewed Life Christian Counseling Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmington, DE
Renewed Life Christian Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MDiv, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilmington, DE 19804
WE TREAT: Depression Anxiety Bipolar disorder Personality Disorders Trauma recovery Chemical Alcohol Sexual addiction Codependency Eating disorders Conduct disorders of childhood Attention Deficit Disorders ADHD Abusive relationships Difficulty with life transitions Spiritual abuse Pastors and congregations in crisis Career and job stress Challenges of parenting Divorce recovery Grief and Marital.
Distinctively Christian and Professionally Competent counseling. We seek to help solve peoples problems by enabling them to see their own God given strengths using solid Biblical principles along with professional mental health concepts. To use the whole-person approach that considers the emotional, physical, social, intellectual and spiritual needs of each person. To incorporate professional excellence with Christian values, empowering individuals and families to reach their full potential in Christ by helping them to gain new insights and skills while deepening their understanding of God.
WE TREAT: Depression Anxiety Bipolar disorder Personality Disorders Trauma recovery Chemical Alcohol Sexual addiction Codependency Eating disorders Conduct disorders of childhood Attention Deficit Disorders ADHD Abusive relationships Difficulty with life transitions Spiritual abuse Pastors and congregations in crisis Career and job stress Challenges of parenting Divorce recovery Grief and Marital.
Distinctively Christian and Professionally Competent counseling. We seek to help solve peoples problems by enabling them to see their own God given strengths using solid Biblical principles along with professional mental health concepts. To use the whole-person approach that considers the emotional, physical, social, intellectual and spiritual needs of each person. To incorporate professional excellence with Christian values, empowering individuals and families to reach their full potential in Christ by helping them to gain new insights and skills while deepening their understanding of God.
(302) 233-7123 View (302) 233-7123
Photo of Douglas C Achtert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmington, DE
Douglas C Achtert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSS, CADC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, DE 19810
I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of Pennsylvania with 15 years of experience working with individuals in a variety of settings with people who present with anxiety, depression, grief/bereavement, stress management, life transitions, substance use, bipolar disorder, and other mental health issues. Therapy is a partnership in change, a path to gaining insight to your life. We will focus on you as a person and your strengths, looking holistically and individually as a plan of care is created centered around your needs and goals. This approach will increase awareness and groundedness in the present moment.
I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of Pennsylvania with 15 years of experience working with individuals in a variety of settings with people who present with anxiety, depression, grief/bereavement, stress management, life transitions, substance use, bipolar disorder, and other mental health issues. Therapy is a partnership in change, a path to gaining insight to your life. We will focus on you as a person and your strengths, looking holistically and individually as a plan of care is created centered around your needs and goals. This approach will increase awareness and groundedness in the present moment.
(484) 601-3859 View (484) 601-3859
Photo of Talk With Twila Ministries, L.L.C., Licensed Professional Counselor in Wilmington, DE
Talk With Twila Ministries, L.L.C.
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCMH, NCC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, DE 19802
I have a lot of experience with ADD, PTSD, Bipolar I and II; depression, anxiety and co-occurring conditions as well as OCD.
Relationships are the most important aspect of our lives and intricately connected to our personal happiness. We can work to streamline your relationships so that you achieve the greatest satisfaction. I have experience with trauma and most diagnosis' Please feel free to give me a call and schedule an appointment. Most issues are formed in our home of origin. There are many paths to achieve a desired result. Therapy finds the path to the result you are looking for, problem solving, and many other faucets based on what you, the client wish to accomplish. I am a licensed minister and do pastoral counseling also.
I have a lot of experience with ADD, PTSD, Bipolar I and II; depression, anxiety and co-occurring conditions as well as OCD.
Relationships are the most important aspect of our lives and intricately connected to our personal happiness. We can work to streamline your relationships so that you achieve the greatest satisfaction. I have experience with trauma and most diagnosis' Please feel free to give me a call and schedule an appointment. Most issues are formed in our home of origin. There are many paths to achieve a desired result. Therapy finds the path to the result you are looking for, problem solving, and many other faucets based on what you, the client wish to accomplish. I am a licensed minister and do pastoral counseling also.
(302) 407-0132 View (302) 407-0132
Photo of Huan-Tang Lu, Counselor in Wilmington, DE
Huan-Tang Lu
Counselor, PhD, LMHC/PC, ACS, RPT, RN
Verified Verified
Wilmington, DE 19801  (Online Only)
Common challenges that I work with include bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, family conflicts, borderline personality disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
This is a space for everyone who would like to explore their full potential. You can find non-judgmental, unconditional acceptance here. This will be a journey for your personal growth and to reach your life goals, whether it's reaching higher or getting back in the direction you wish. We will work together frequently at the beginning and aim to reduce the frequency when you feel ready.
Common challenges that I work with include bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, family conflicts, borderline personality disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
This is a space for everyone who would like to explore their full potential. You can find non-judgmental, unconditional acceptance here. This will be a journey for your personal growth and to reach your life goals, whether it's reaching higher or getting back in the direction you wish. We will work together frequently at the beginning and aim to reduce the frequency when you feel ready.
(617) 741-9360 View (617) 741-9360
Photo of Mary Beth McCabe, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wilmington, DE
Mary Beth McCabe
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPCMH
Verified Verified
Wilmington, DE 19801  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Mary Beth and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in NJ and DE with over 10 years of experience providing therapy services. I specialize in clients affected by depression, anxiety, bipolar, Autism, grief and loss, sexual abuse, trauma and relationship challenges from individual, group and family work. I am very direct and we will work together towards healing and living your best life. My clients usually start feeling better within a few sessions by implementing a holistic approach towards wellness. You can find me on HelloAlma secure.helloalma.com/providers/mary-mccabe/
Hello! My name is Mary Beth and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in NJ and DE with over 10 years of experience providing therapy services. I specialize in clients affected by depression, anxiety, bipolar, Autism, grief and loss, sexual abuse, trauma and relationship challenges from individual, group and family work. I am very direct and we will work together towards healing and living your best life. My clients usually start feeling better within a few sessions by implementing a holistic approach towards wellness. You can find me on HelloAlma secure.helloalma.com/providers/mary-mccabe/
(856) 512-1012 View (856) 512-1012
Photo of George Zappalorta, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmington, DE
George Zappalorta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilmington, DE 19807
I am a clinical social worker who works with people from ages 14 to Geriatric age. My client base are people who have occupational , substance abuse, mental health, family, and legal issues. The following disorders I work with are personality disorders, Schizophrenia spectrum, anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, bipolar disorders, mood disorders, Traumatic Brain Injury and Intellectual Disabilities, that range from borderline intellectual to moderate intellectual disability. I am also a certified gambling addictions counselor and Certified addictions Counselor.
I am a clinical social worker who works with people from ages 14 to Geriatric age. My client base are people who have occupational , substance abuse, mental health, family, and legal issues. The following disorders I work with are personality disorders, Schizophrenia spectrum, anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, bipolar disorders, mood disorders, Traumatic Brain Injury and Intellectual Disabilities, that range from borderline intellectual to moderate intellectual disability. I am also a certified gambling addictions counselor and Certified addictions Counselor.
(501) 361-3845 View (501) 361-3845
Photo of Michael Clemente, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wilmington, DE
Michael Clemente
Licensed Professional Counselor, BCBA, LPC, NCC, LBS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, DE 19801
I specialize in treating mood disorders such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, suicidal ideation as well as trauma informed care and PTSD.
My name is Michael and I am the owner of the Behavior & Counseling Center, Board Certified Behavior Analyst, Licensed Professional Counselor, National Certified Counselor, and Licensed Behavior Specialist. I have extensive experience working within the field of ABA/behavior modification as well as within the field of clinical counseling. I work within the framework of cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) while incorporating a person-centered approach for my psychotherapy clients, and intertwine Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and (CBT) for my children and adolescent clients.
I specialize in treating mood disorders such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, suicidal ideation as well as trauma informed care and PTSD.
My name is Michael and I am the owner of the Behavior & Counseling Center, Board Certified Behavior Analyst, Licensed Professional Counselor, National Certified Counselor, and Licensed Behavior Specialist. I have extensive experience working within the field of ABA/behavior modification as well as within the field of clinical counseling. I work within the framework of cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) while incorporating a person-centered approach for my psychotherapy clients, and intertwine Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and (CBT) for my children and adolescent clients.
(215) 544-2706 View (215) 544-2706
Photo of Michael McRae Counseling Llc., Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmington, DE
Michael McRae Counseling Llc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, M Ed, CAADC, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, DE 19809
The expectation in the counseling relationship is for honesty with a commitment of growth, healing, and self-discovery. My approach to counseling is that of person-centered and goal-oriented. My focus is to help clients determine his or her level of need and their commitment to developing the coping skills needed to improve upon their issues. I currently am a mental health and D&A counselor. My credentials include Certified Advanced Alcohol and a Drug Counselor and Licensed Master Social Worker.
The expectation in the counseling relationship is for honesty with a commitment of growth, healing, and self-discovery. My approach to counseling is that of person-centered and goal-oriented. My focus is to help clients determine his or her level of need and their commitment to developing the coping skills needed to improve upon their issues. I currently am a mental health and D&A counselor. My credentials include Certified Advanced Alcohol and a Drug Counselor and Licensed Master Social Worker.
(302) 303-6238 View (302) 303-6238
Photo of Meghan McCoy-Smith, Psychologist in Wilmington, DE
Meghan McCoy-Smith
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wilmington, DE 19810  (Online Only)
I am dedicated to helping clients navigate any concerns, challenges and change needed to find renewed hope. I have a passion for healing and a commitment to making a positive impact and have dedicated my career to helping individuals from all walks of life. Whether you are experiencing a crisis or struggling with issues such as depression, anxiety, or trauma, From hospitals to clinics, I have applied my therapeutic expertise to provide much-needed support and guidance to those in need. Through a compassionate approach, I work to instill a sense of resilience and empower my clients to develop lasting strategies to overcome obstacles.
I am dedicated to helping clients navigate any concerns, challenges and change needed to find renewed hope. I have a passion for healing and a commitment to making a positive impact and have dedicated my career to helping individuals from all walks of life. Whether you are experiencing a crisis or struggling with issues such as depression, anxiety, or trauma, From hospitals to clinics, I have applied my therapeutic expertise to provide much-needed support and guidance to those in need. Through a compassionate approach, I work to instill a sense of resilience and empower my clients to develop lasting strategies to overcome obstacles.
(302) 281-1047 View (302) 281-1047
Photo of Lauren A Rhoades, Counselor in Wilmington, DE
Lauren A Rhoades
Counselor, LPCMH, CCDP-D
Verified Verified
Wilmington, DE 19804  (Online Only)
Are you going through the motions? Living in the past? Having trouble creating a sense of self worth? Taking the first step to improving self care and taking control of your life worth living can be scary. At Rhoades to Wellbeing, LLC, our clinical team provides a therapeutic safe space to help you understand and learn effective ways to cope with life stressors, work through mental health issues, heal unresolved trauma, and recover from substance use.  Through a trauma informed lens, I strive to provide creative and client centered therapeutic services to individuals, couples, adolescents, and families struggling in these areas.
Are you going through the motions? Living in the past? Having trouble creating a sense of self worth? Taking the first step to improving self care and taking control of your life worth living can be scary. At Rhoades to Wellbeing, LLC, our clinical team provides a therapeutic safe space to help you understand and learn effective ways to cope with life stressors, work through mental health issues, heal unresolved trauma, and recover from substance use.  Through a trauma informed lens, I strive to provide creative and client centered therapeutic services to individuals, couples, adolescents, and families struggling in these areas.
(302) 572-2060 View (302) 572-2060
Photo of Kathryn Alabi (Serving DE Md), Counselor in Wilmington, DE
Kathryn Alabi (Serving DE Md)
Counselor, LPCMH, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wilmington, DE 19810
I am a Licensed professional counselor who has been practicing in the field for over 15yrs. My client population includes couples, adults suffering with Depression, Anxiety, Self-esteem, trauma focus concerns, women issues, ADD, Substance abuse, Oppositional defiant, Family Issues. I also provide clinical supervision as the board certifies for provisionally licensed counselors seeking supervision. My approach lays emphasizes on the client's resources of becoming self-aware; to resolve blocks to personal growth; allows for the client to determine the direction of therapy and puts the client (not the therapist) at the center of therapy.
I am a Licensed professional counselor who has been practicing in the field for over 15yrs. My client population includes couples, adults suffering with Depression, Anxiety, Self-esteem, trauma focus concerns, women issues, ADD, Substance abuse, Oppositional defiant, Family Issues. I also provide clinical supervision as the board certifies for provisionally licensed counselors seeking supervision. My approach lays emphasizes on the client's resources of becoming self-aware; to resolve blocks to personal growth; allows for the client to determine the direction of therapy and puts the client (not the therapist) at the center of therapy.
(302) 918-5967 View (302) 918-5967
Photo of Elizabeth Buckley, Psychologist in Wilmington, DE
Elizabeth Buckley
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wilmington, DE 19810
Elizabeth earned her Bachelor's of Art degree in Psychology from the University of Delaware and a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (PsyD) From Immaculata University. Elizabeth has experience treating children, adolescents, families, and adults with a range of mental health disorders, including, but not limited to depression, anxiety, ADHD, grief, behavior disorders, personality disorders, and trauma. Elizabeth has received training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT).
Elizabeth earned her Bachelor's of Art degree in Psychology from the University of Delaware and a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (PsyD) From Immaculata University. Elizabeth has experience treating children, adolescents, families, and adults with a range of mental health disorders, including, but not limited to depression, anxiety, ADHD, grief, behavior disorders, personality disorders, and trauma. Elizabeth has received training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT).
(302) 599-6643 View (302) 599-6643
Photo of Kathleen Cherry, Psychologist in Wilmington, DE
Kathleen Cherry
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wilmington, DE 19810
Dr. Kathleen Cherry is a licensed Psychologist in Delaware. In addition to treating her own caseload, Dr. Cherry services as the Director of Testing and Assessment Services at LifeStance Delaware. Current areas of clinical works primarily involve psychological assessment and supervision of doctoral students, doctoral interns, and post-doctoral residents. Additionally, Dr. Cherry sees families for Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), an evidenced-based treatment approach for young children (ages 2-7) with emotional and behavioral difficulties.
Dr. Kathleen Cherry is a licensed Psychologist in Delaware. In addition to treating her own caseload, Dr. Cherry services as the Director of Testing and Assessment Services at LifeStance Delaware. Current areas of clinical works primarily involve psychological assessment and supervision of doctoral students, doctoral interns, and post-doctoral residents. Additionally, Dr. Cherry sees families for Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), an evidenced-based treatment approach for young children (ages 2-7) with emotional and behavioral difficulties.
(302) 924-7897 View (302) 924-7897
Photo of Joel Cutter, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wilmington, DE
Joel Cutter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LPCMH, NCE
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, DE 19803
As a passionate therapist and registered counselor, my experience allows me to understand the best ways to address each client’s needs in an effective manner. I am flexible in my approach and use collaboration as the basis of my therapy—ensuring a comfortable, safe environment where we can work together on your goals. To learn more, review my available services and book a session today!
As a passionate therapist and registered counselor, my experience allows me to understand the best ways to address each client’s needs in an effective manner. I am flexible in my approach and use collaboration as the basis of my therapy—ensuring a comfortable, safe environment where we can work together on your goals. To learn more, review my available services and book a session today!
(302) 316-4480 View (302) 316-4480
Photo of Maggie Kocak, Pre-Licensed Professional in Wilmington, DE
Maggie Kocak
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Wilmington, DE 19810
Maggie is a pre-doctoral intern at Immaculata University pursuing a Doctor of Psychology (Psy. D. ) in Clinical Psychology. She earned her Master of Arts (M. A. ) in Clinical Psychology from Immaculata University. Maggie has experience treating children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of diagnoses and presenting concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, dementia, serious mental illness, and coping with medical issues. She has completed training in psychotherapy and psychological assessment in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
Maggie is a pre-doctoral intern at Immaculata University pursuing a Doctor of Psychology (Psy. D. ) in Clinical Psychology. She earned her Master of Arts (M. A. ) in Clinical Psychology from Immaculata University. Maggie has experience treating children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of diagnoses and presenting concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, dementia, serious mental illness, and coping with medical issues. She has completed training in psychotherapy and psychological assessment in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
(302) 305-5612 View (302) 305-5612
Photo of Mind Body & Sol Counseling and Consultation, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wilmington, DE
Mind Body & Sol Counseling and Consultation
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Wilmington, DE 19801
Mind Body & Sol Counseling and Consultation (MBS) is a virtual mental health therapy service that provides our clients with access to personal, present, and professional care. Our primary focus is to create a safe space for BIPOC individuals and families, however, we are not biased and will work with everyone. We provide individual, couples, and family therapy. Are you struggling with who you are? Do you often wake up thinking "how did I get here?" MBS is here to support through getting unstuck when feeling "stuck." Let us help you create a new path today!
Mind Body & Sol Counseling and Consultation (MBS) is a virtual mental health therapy service that provides our clients with access to personal, present, and professional care. Our primary focus is to create a safe space for BIPOC individuals and families, however, we are not biased and will work with everyone. We provide individual, couples, and family therapy. Are you struggling with who you are? Do you often wake up thinking "how did I get here?" MBS is here to support through getting unstuck when feeling "stuck." Let us help you create a new path today!
(717) 794-8589 View (717) 794-8589
Photo of Charles L Solomon, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wilmington, DE
Charles L Solomon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MBA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, DE 19801  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Throughout a lifetime, we are reminded of our own mortality by a continuous journey fraught with hurdles and complications that cause not only physical, but emotional pain as well. Often, along with that journey, we discover the desired destination is full of stressors that inhibit our strive, accomplishments, and ultimately, our very joy and sense of fulfillment.
Throughout a lifetime, we are reminded of our own mortality by a continuous journey fraught with hurdles and complications that cause not only physical, but emotional pain as well. Often, along with that journey, we discover the desired destination is full of stressors that inhibit our strive, accomplishments, and ultimately, our very joy and sense of fulfillment.
(484) 260-7565 View (484) 260-7565
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.