Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Miami, FL

Photo of Jessica Bonaventura, Counselor in Miami, FL
Jessica Bonaventura
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33165
Hello! My name is Jessica Bonaventura. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 7 years of clinical experience providing therapy for various individuals with addiction, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and borderline personality disorder, among many other mental health diagnoses. I enjoy using a mixture of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, solution-focused therapy, person-centered therapy, DBT, and a psychoanalytic approach to help clients understand how their past has affected their present. I believe in encouraging my clients to apply their creativity in a less directive-based therapeutic approach.
Hello! My name is Jessica Bonaventura. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 7 years of clinical experience providing therapy for various individuals with addiction, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and borderline personality disorder, among many other mental health diagnoses. I enjoy using a mixture of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, solution-focused therapy, person-centered therapy, DBT, and a psychoanalytic approach to help clients understand how their past has affected their present. I believe in encouraging my clients to apply their creativity in a less directive-based therapeutic approach.
(904) 906-3143 View (904) 906-3143
Photo of Dr. Tom Bonner, Psychologist in Miami, FL
Dr. Tom Bonner
Psychologist, PhD, PA, ABPP
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33156
I offer video or in-person sessions. Trained at Princeton, University of Miami, and University of Texas--in practice over 30 years. Board certified in clinical psychology by the American Board of Professional Psychology--a credential obtained by only 5% of all psychologists in the nation. I was President (for 2020) of the Florida Psychological Association, and past Training Director at Citrus Health Network mental health center. I'm trained to treat borderline and narcissistic personality disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, relationship conflicts, school/work underachievement, autism/Asperger's disorders, and ADHD.
I offer video or in-person sessions. Trained at Princeton, University of Miami, and University of Texas--in practice over 30 years. Board certified in clinical psychology by the American Board of Professional Psychology--a credential obtained by only 5% of all psychologists in the nation. I was President (for 2020) of the Florida Psychological Association, and past Training Director at Citrus Health Network mental health center. I'm trained to treat borderline and narcissistic personality disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, relationship conflicts, school/work underachievement, autism/Asperger's disorders, and ADHD.
(786) 373-1719 View (786) 373-1719
Photo of Nicole Ernst, Mental Health Counselor in Miami, FL
Nicole Ernst
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33186
I am a licensed mental health counselor with 17 years in the field. I have worked with clients from as young as 3 to the elderly, in areas such as addiction, anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, family communication, bipolar disorder and psychosis. I also have a specialty in trauma.
I am a licensed mental health counselor with 17 years in the field. I have worked with clients from as young as 3 to the elderly, in areas such as addiction, anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, family communication, bipolar disorder and psychosis. I also have a specialty in trauma.
(305) 517-1329 View (305) 517-1329
Photo of Dr. Waugh, Counselor in Miami, FL
Dr. Waugh
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, MFT, CCS
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33186
Cognitive Behavioral, Narrative therapy, Positive Psychology, Clinical Sexuality, bipolar disorder, Domestic Violence, Depression, Anxiety.
A Licensed Mental Health Counselor(LMHC) practicing in Miami, Florida for over 21 years and is a Board-certified Qualified Supervisor. She has a Ph.D. in Clinical Sexology. Dr. Waugh was born in Cuba and raised in Spain for 20 years before finally making Miami her home. She has worked in private practice for over 10 years and specializes in working with individuals, families, and couples. Dr. Waugh has her expertise in the areas of domestic violence and Autism related disorders. She is fluent in English and Spanish and is the author of the book “Learning our life”.
Cognitive Behavioral, Narrative therapy, Positive Psychology, Clinical Sexuality, bipolar disorder, Domestic Violence, Depression, Anxiety.
A Licensed Mental Health Counselor(LMHC) practicing in Miami, Florida for over 21 years and is a Board-certified Qualified Supervisor. She has a Ph.D. in Clinical Sexology. Dr. Waugh was born in Cuba and raised in Spain for 20 years before finally making Miami her home. She has worked in private practice for over 10 years and specializes in working with individuals, families, and couples. Dr. Waugh has her expertise in the areas of domestic violence and Autism related disorders. She is fluent in English and Spanish and is the author of the book “Learning our life”.
(786) 471-2239 View (786) 471-2239
Photo of Lynnell Moss, Marriage & Family Therapist in Miami, FL
Lynnell Moss
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33130  (Online Only)
I am board certified psychotherapist with 20+ years of education, 10+ years as a clinician. I have advanced training and experience in the management and treatment of: Trauma and PTSD, Borderline personality Disorder, Personality Disorder (Paranoid, Histrionic, Narcissistic, Avoidant, Schizoid, Schizotypal), Bipolar Disorder Anger.
I am board certified psychotherapist with 20+ years of education, 10+ years as a clinician. I have advanced training and experience in the management and treatment of: Trauma and PTSD, Borderline personality Disorder, Personality Disorder (Paranoid, Histrionic, Narcissistic, Avoidant, Schizoid, Schizotypal), Bipolar Disorder Anger.
(786) 713-1642 View (786) 713-1642
Photo of Deborah Tome, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Miami, FL
Deborah Tome
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33186
I am a laid-back therapist. I have over 40 years of experience in this profession and have learned a variety of approaches and techniques. My top modalities are Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Eclectic, Family Systems, Dialectical (DBT), Family / Marital, Interpersonal, Mindfulness, Trauma Therapy, and Couples Therapy. My specialties are Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Coping Skills, Trauma, and PTSD. I believe our relationship is a partnership, with both of us working as a team to provide you with success!
I am a laid-back therapist. I have over 40 years of experience in this profession and have learned a variety of approaches and techniques. My top modalities are Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Eclectic, Family Systems, Dialectical (DBT), Family / Marital, Interpersonal, Mindfulness, Trauma Therapy, and Couples Therapy. My specialties are Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Coping Skills, Trauma, and PTSD. I believe our relationship is a partnership, with both of us working as a team to provide you with success!
(813) 796-7584 View (813) 796-7584
Photo of Dr. Amanda Clark, Psychologist in Miami, FL
Dr. Amanda Clark
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33131
I have experience delivering treatment for a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, personality disorders, life transitions, relationship difficulties, stress and burnout, work/life integration, navigating identity, grief/loss, and insomnia/sleep difficulties, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, and treatment-resistant depression.
This may be your first time reaching out for help, which can feel really anxiety-provoking. Whether you desire to gain a deeper understanding of yourself, improve your relationships, live a more fulfilled life, or address specific concerns, you are not alone and I can help you. I place a heavy emphasis on creating a non-judgmental, warm, and supportive space for you to address what may be weighing on you. You may find that you prefer a more directive approach where I offer more guidance or specific skills, or a more non-directive approach where you lead the way and together we explore your different feelings, thoughts, and values.
I have experience delivering treatment for a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, personality disorders, life transitions, relationship difficulties, stress and burnout, work/life integration, navigating identity, grief/loss, and insomnia/sleep difficulties, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, and treatment-resistant depression.
This may be your first time reaching out for help, which can feel really anxiety-provoking. Whether you desire to gain a deeper understanding of yourself, improve your relationships, live a more fulfilled life, or address specific concerns, you are not alone and I can help you. I place a heavy emphasis on creating a non-judgmental, warm, and supportive space for you to address what may be weighing on you. You may find that you prefer a more directive approach where I offer more guidance or specific skills, or a more non-directive approach where you lead the way and together we explore your different feelings, thoughts, and values.
(786) 460-7576 View (786) 460-7576
Photo of Maya Duffy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Miami, FL
Maya Duffy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33157
Greetings! My name is Maya Duffy. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 13 years of clinical experience assisting various with Addiction, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Coping Skills, and Depression through their journey of self-discovery, healing, and growth. In sessions, I utilize active listening, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused, and Person-Centered therapy to assist clients in breaking cognitive distortions, gaining emotional intelligence, and building healthy coping skills. I believe in meeting the client where they are in the process of their therapeutic journey.
Greetings! My name is Maya Duffy. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 13 years of clinical experience assisting various with Addiction, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Coping Skills, and Depression through their journey of self-discovery, healing, and growth. In sessions, I utilize active listening, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused, and Person-Centered therapy to assist clients in breaking cognitive distortions, gaining emotional intelligence, and building healthy coping skills. I believe in meeting the client where they are in the process of their therapeutic journey.
(904) 906-4932 View (904) 906-4932
Photo of Monique Zellars, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Miami, FL
Monique Zellars
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33137  (Online Only)
She is skilled in using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavoiral therapy to treat conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, behavioral dysregulation, suicidal ideation and self harming behaviors.
Monique received a bachelor’s in History and African American Studies from The University of Michigan and a Master of Social Work from Tulane University. Prior to joining Rivia, Monique has worked in private practice, university settings and intensive outpatient programs. Monique uses a nonjudgemental approach to helping clients assess behaviors and develop goals for their life. By coupling building tangible skills with introspection, Monique is able to help clients develop a full view of their diagnosis without being stifled by ineffective shame or guilt.
She is skilled in using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavoiral therapy to treat conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, behavioral dysregulation, suicidal ideation and self harming behaviors.
Monique received a bachelor’s in History and African American Studies from The University of Michigan and a Master of Social Work from Tulane University. Prior to joining Rivia, Monique has worked in private practice, university settings and intensive outpatient programs. Monique uses a nonjudgemental approach to helping clients assess behaviors and develop goals for their life. By coupling building tangible skills with introspection, Monique is able to help clients develop a full view of their diagnosis without being stifled by ineffective shame or guilt.
(646) 430-8695 View (646) 430-8695
Photo of Lynnell Moss, Marriage & Family Therapist in Miami, FL
Lynnell Moss
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33126
I am a License Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10 years of clinical experience working with various individuals, couples, and families with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, PTSD, Sexual Abuse, and Personality Disorders. I often utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution-focused Therapy, Trauma-focused therapy, and Gestalt techniques, but I also use other approaches. I believe in working adamantly to make a real difference, using an authentic and gentle style.
I am a License Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10 years of clinical experience working with various individuals, couples, and families with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, PTSD, Sexual Abuse, and Personality Disorders. I often utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution-focused Therapy, Trauma-focused therapy, and Gestalt techniques, but I also use other approaches. I believe in working adamantly to make a real difference, using an authentic and gentle style.
(407) 449-8255 View (407) 449-8255
Photo of Dr. Colleen Greene, Counselor in Miami, FL
Dr. Colleen Greene
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, CAP
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33109  (Online Only)
Have you been struggling? Have you been trying to avoid conflict, saying yes when you mean no? It's time to find your voice and create a change. I provide a different therapy approach with each individual respecting and recognizing that everyone has different needs. I can help you to make changes to improve your life, let go of toxic relationships, manage your anxiety, depression. I welcome couples, individuals, those struggling with depression, bipolar disorder, grief, anxiety. Change can be hard, but it's not harder than staying stuck somewhere you don't belong. I believe that no human has to struggle in silence.
Have you been struggling? Have you been trying to avoid conflict, saying yes when you mean no? It's time to find your voice and create a change. I provide a different therapy approach with each individual respecting and recognizing that everyone has different needs. I can help you to make changes to improve your life, let go of toxic relationships, manage your anxiety, depression. I welcome couples, individuals, those struggling with depression, bipolar disorder, grief, anxiety. Change can be hard, but it's not harder than staying stuck somewhere you don't belong. I believe that no human has to struggle in silence.
(561) 279-6108 View (561) 279-6108
Photo of Laura Hutchison, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Miami, FL
Laura Hutchison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33125
I am a licensed social worker with seven years of clinical experience who has worked with Individuals and minors between the ages of 13 and 17. My specialties include Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Self Esteem, and Women's Issues. My approach is a mix of Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Strength-Based, and Positive Psychology that will help define your concerns and create realistic goals. I believe that the relationship between counselor and client is significant, and I feel that real change begins in an environment where you feel comfortable and validated.
I am a licensed social worker with seven years of clinical experience who has worked with Individuals and minors between the ages of 13 and 17. My specialties include Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Self Esteem, and Women's Issues. My approach is a mix of Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Strength-Based, and Positive Psychology that will help define your concerns and create realistic goals. I believe that the relationship between counselor and client is significant, and I feel that real change begins in an environment where you feel comfortable and validated.
(813) 742-8895 View (813) 742-8895
Photo of Daniela Krotzer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Miami, FL
Daniela Krotzer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, EMDR-C, IFS-C, CDBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33158  (Online Only)
Daniela has expertise in various areas such as trauma, PTSD, grief, relationship challenges, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, suicidal thoughts, self-injury, depression, anxiety, and more.
The past few years have been difficult for everyone, possibly bringing about unfamiliar behaviors from someone you are close to, be it your partner, family member, or even yourself. They might have triggered memories of past traumatic events. Some part of ourselves remains trapped in the past, constantly reliving the pain we once went through. However, it is not mandatory for you to remain in that state. You no longer have to allow these experiences to affect you, your relationships, or other areas of your life. Take the step today to schedule a consultation today at drdanielakrotzer.com.
Daniela has expertise in various areas such as trauma, PTSD, grief, relationship challenges, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, suicidal thoughts, self-injury, depression, anxiety, and more.
The past few years have been difficult for everyone, possibly bringing about unfamiliar behaviors from someone you are close to, be it your partner, family member, or even yourself. They might have triggered memories of past traumatic events. Some part of ourselves remains trapped in the past, constantly reliving the pain we once went through. However, it is not mandatory for you to remain in that state. You no longer have to allow these experiences to affect you, your relationships, or other areas of your life. Take the step today to schedule a consultation today at drdanielakrotzer.com.
(754) 399-3640 View (754) 399-3640
Photo of Dawna Bone, Psychologist in Miami, FL
Dawna Bone
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33142  (Online Only)
I am a licensed psychologist with over 25 years of experience. I specialize in PTSD and other anxiety disorders, as well as. in Bipolar Disorder and Depression.
I am a licensed psychologist with over 25 years of experience. I specialize in PTSD and other anxiety disorders, as well as. in Bipolar Disorder and Depression.
(904) 747-3217 View (904) 747-3217
Photo of Joey Guzzi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Miami, FL
Joey Guzzi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33157  (Online Only)
I also specialize in helping people manage issues with depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
I am looking to help you maximize your potential and overcome any issues you're experiencing. I have 25 years of experience assisting and educating others, and I focus on helping people build an understanding of their diseases and what progress looks like, then I teach them how to lead a life of recovery.
I also specialize in helping people manage issues with depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
I am looking to help you maximize your potential and overcome any issues you're experiencing. I have 25 years of experience assisting and educating others, and I focus on helping people build an understanding of their diseases and what progress looks like, then I teach them how to lead a life of recovery.
(352) 618-2332 View (352) 618-2332
Photo of Mental Health & Art Therapy LLC, Art Therapist in Miami, FL
Mental Health & Art Therapy LLC
Art Therapist, MA, LMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33160
I work with children, adolescents, and adults who struggle with Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Autistic Spectrum Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, ADD & ADHD, ODD, OCD, Substance Abuse, Eating Disorders & Neuro-Cognitive Disorders, Schizophrenia and Personality Disorders; as well as stress reduction in clients struggling with any type of chronic condition.
I received a dual master's in Mental Health Counseling and Art Therapy at Lesley University in Cambridge, Massachusetts. I am currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Applied Clinical Psychophysiology at the College of Integrative Medicine and Health Sciences at Saybrook University. My practice integrates cognitive-behavioral approaches with art therapy, neuroscience, and mindfulness. Treatment plans are tailored to meet the client's individual needs.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults who struggle with Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Autistic Spectrum Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, ADD & ADHD, ODD, OCD, Substance Abuse, Eating Disorders & Neuro-Cognitive Disorders, Schizophrenia and Personality Disorders; as well as stress reduction in clients struggling with any type of chronic condition.
I received a dual master's in Mental Health Counseling and Art Therapy at Lesley University in Cambridge, Massachusetts. I am currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Applied Clinical Psychophysiology at the College of Integrative Medicine and Health Sciences at Saybrook University. My practice integrates cognitive-behavioral approaches with art therapy, neuroscience, and mindfulness. Treatment plans are tailored to meet the client's individual needs.
(786) 420-6686 View (786) 420-6686
Photo of Nicole Neufeld, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Miami, FL
Nicole Neufeld
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33186  (Online Only)
I have been granted the privilege to work with a wide range of clients, which has helped further develop my skill in tailoring therapeutic services based on specific needs presented. Each individual is unique, and therefore, should have a treatment plan that fits accordingly. My experience includes work with Anxiety, Depression, Marital and Familial Conflict, Schizophrenia, Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Substance Use, OCD, Trauma, Life Transitions, and issues relating to the LGBTQIA+ community. The modalities that I implement include but are not limited to, CBT, TF-CBT, DBT, Family Systemic Work and more.
I have been granted the privilege to work with a wide range of clients, which has helped further develop my skill in tailoring therapeutic services based on specific needs presented. Each individual is unique, and therefore, should have a treatment plan that fits accordingly. My experience includes work with Anxiety, Depression, Marital and Familial Conflict, Schizophrenia, Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Substance Use, OCD, Trauma, Life Transitions, and issues relating to the LGBTQIA+ community. The modalities that I implement include but are not limited to, CBT, TF-CBT, DBT, Family Systemic Work and more.
(786) 705-2503 View (786) 705-2503
Paige Schwartz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33186
Hello, my name is Paige Schwartz, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have worked in my field for over 25 years. I am nonjudgemental, compassionate, and a great listener. I have extensive training in working with OCD, Self Esteem, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Addictions, Relationship issues, and so much more. I enjoy working with clients that are open and receptive to positive change. Change can be uncomfortable and scary, but it is in change that we grow. During sessions, I utilize an eclectic approach because there is not a one size fits all modality. I use a combination of ACT, CBT, and coaching to provide compassion focu
Hello, my name is Paige Schwartz, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have worked in my field for over 25 years. I am nonjudgemental, compassionate, and a great listener. I have extensive training in working with OCD, Self Esteem, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Addictions, Relationship issues, and so much more. I enjoy working with clients that are open and receptive to positive change. Change can be uncomfortable and scary, but it is in change that we grow. During sessions, I utilize an eclectic approach because there is not a one size fits all modality. I use a combination of ACT, CBT, and coaching to provide compassion focu
(305) 506-1637 View (305) 506-1637
Photo of Amber Weiss, Counselor in Miami, FL
Amber Weiss
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33132  (Online Only)
Specializing in severe anxiety, BPD, addiction, eating disorders, bipolar disorder, relationship issues, and depression, I offer a versatile approach tailored to unique needs.
Feeling lost, down, or overwhelmed? You're not alone. I'm here to guide you toward brighter days with unwavering commitment. Life's curveballs are opportunities for growth; together, we'll navigate them toward empowerment. In my nine years of practice, I've witnessed transformative breakthroughs. My approach fosters genuine understanding in a safe, supportive space. Let's tailor effective techniques to your needs, forging a path toward lasting change. Ready to embark on this journey toward fulfillment? I'm here to support you every step of the way.
Specializing in severe anxiety, BPD, addiction, eating disorders, bipolar disorder, relationship issues, and depression, I offer a versatile approach tailored to unique needs.
Feeling lost, down, or overwhelmed? You're not alone. I'm here to guide you toward brighter days with unwavering commitment. Life's curveballs are opportunities for growth; together, we'll navigate them toward empowerment. In my nine years of practice, I've witnessed transformative breakthroughs. My approach fosters genuine understanding in a safe, supportive space. Let's tailor effective techniques to your needs, forging a path toward lasting change. Ready to embark on this journey toward fulfillment? I'm here to support you every step of the way.
(754) 254-7174 View (754) 254-7174
Photo of Vanessa Paola Andrade, Counselor in Miami, FL
Vanessa Paola Andrade
Counselor, LMHC, QS, MCAP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33137  (Online Only)
If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious or struggling with sadness, therapy is a safe place to share and explore current challenges you are facing in your life: stress, anxiety, problems with relationships, feelings of unhappiness in your life or past trauma still negatively affecting your life. I will help support and guide you in the therapeutic process to foster your healing and growth. I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 14 years of experience who is most comfortable and experienced with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, life transition problems, PTSD and substance use issues.
If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious or struggling with sadness, therapy is a safe place to share and explore current challenges you are facing in your life: stress, anxiety, problems with relationships, feelings of unhappiness in your life or past trauma still negatively affecting your life. I will help support and guide you in the therapeutic process to foster your healing and growth. I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 14 years of experience who is most comfortable and experienced with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, life transition problems, PTSD and substance use issues.
(305) 506-1433 View (305) 506-1433

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.