Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Middlesex County, NJ

Photo of Melissa Chance, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Middlesex County, NJ
Melissa Chance
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Monroe, NJ 08831
I have a great deal of experience working with those struggling with depression/anxiety/bipolar disorder/ADHD/gender identity issues/and substance abuse related issues.
I love to help others. It has been my passion ever since I was a teenager. I want to be a positive support and teach others how to be the best version of themselves. It is so rewarding to be part of another person's journey and see them accomplish their goals. I also want to be the major point of support for someone that I wish I had and needed when I was younger.
I have a great deal of experience working with those struggling with depression/anxiety/bipolar disorder/ADHD/gender identity issues/and substance abuse related issues.
I love to help others. It has been my passion ever since I was a teenager. I want to be a positive support and teach others how to be the best version of themselves. It is so rewarding to be part of another person's journey and see them accomplish their goals. I also want to be the major point of support for someone that I wish I had and needed when I was younger.
(732) 889-5874 View (732) 889-5874
Photo of Richard Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Middlesex County, NJ
Richard Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Edison, NJ 08837
Richard is licensed by the State of New Jersey as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and is a National Board Certified Counselor (NBCC). Richard has over eight years of experience working with a wide range of adults and families in the mental health field settings at the Outpatient, Intensive Outpatient, Residential, Intensive In-Community Settings. Richard has experience with various issues, including Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Grief, Stress, Substance Abuse, Peer Relationships, Anger Management, Men’s Issues, and Domestic Violence.
Richard is licensed by the State of New Jersey as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and is a National Board Certified Counselor (NBCC). Richard has over eight years of experience working with a wide range of adults and families in the mental health field settings at the Outpatient, Intensive Outpatient, Residential, Intensive In-Community Settings. Richard has experience with various issues, including Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Grief, Stress, Substance Abuse, Peer Relationships, Anger Management, Men’s Issues, and Domestic Violence.
(848) 301-2133 View (848) 301-2133
Photo of Victoria Garofalo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Middlesex County, NJ
Victoria Garofalo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New Brunswick, NJ 08901  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping adults and adolescents with depression, stress, and anxiety, coping with addictions, motivation, self-esteem and confidence, and bipolar disorder, among other conditions.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping adults and adolescents with depression, stress, and anxiety, coping with addictions, motivation, self-esteem and confidence, and bipolar disorder, among other conditions.
(201) 597-0945 View (201) 597-0945
Photo of Nivi Elangovan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Middlesex County, NJ
Nivi Elangovan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Spotswood, NJ 08884  (Online Only)
As an licensed clinical social worker and licensed clinical drug and alcohol counselor, I have experience working with adults and couples facing a range of challenges. With a diverse background and extensive experience in various areas including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, addiction, grief and couples issues, I strive to create a safe and inclusive space for clients to explore their concerns and work towards their goals.
As an licensed clinical social worker and licensed clinical drug and alcohol counselor, I have experience working with adults and couples facing a range of challenges. With a diverse background and extensive experience in various areas including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, addiction, grief and couples issues, I strive to create a safe and inclusive space for clients to explore their concerns and work towards their goals.
(732) 838-6261 View (732) 838-6261
Photo of Richard Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Middlesex County, NJ
Richard Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, NJ 07095
Richard is licensed by the State of New Jersey as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and is a National Board Certified Counselor (NBCC). Richard has over eight years of experience working with a wide range of adults and families in the mental health field settings at the Outpatient, Intensive Outpatient, Residential, Intensive In-Community Settings. Richard has experience with various issues, including Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Grief, Stress, Substance Abuse, Peer Relationships, Anger Management, Men’s Issues, and Domestic Violence.
Richard is licensed by the State of New Jersey as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and is a National Board Certified Counselor (NBCC). Richard has over eight years of experience working with a wide range of adults and families in the mental health field settings at the Outpatient, Intensive Outpatient, Residential, Intensive In-Community Settings. Richard has experience with various issues, including Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Grief, Stress, Substance Abuse, Peer Relationships, Anger Management, Men’s Issues, and Domestic Violence.
(732) 387-6668 View (732) 387-6668
Photo of Alaine Robertson-Ali, Licensed Professional Counselor in Middlesex County, NJ
Alaine Robertson-Ali
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
I have 23 years of training and experience working with adults who struggle with low self-esteem, imposter syndrome, anxiety, depression, bipolar, and anger. I'm also very experienced with clients working on transitions such as going to college, new job, marriage, starting a family, a divorce, or coping with a past or recent trauma. I've worked for many years in drug treatment too. I think clients are looking for a way to gain insight and awareness of how challenges effect their thinking, and want to learn new skills to improve how they feel and function in the world.
I have 23 years of training and experience working with adults who struggle with low self-esteem, imposter syndrome, anxiety, depression, bipolar, and anger. I'm also very experienced with clients working on transitions such as going to college, new job, marriage, starting a family, a divorce, or coping with a past or recent trauma. I've worked for many years in drug treatment too. I think clients are looking for a way to gain insight and awareness of how challenges effect their thinking, and want to learn new skills to improve how they feel and function in the world.
(856) 644-4346 View (856) 644-4346
Photo of Melissa Chance, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Middlesex County, NJ
Melissa Chance
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
I have a great deal of experience working with those struggling with depression/anxiety/bipolar disorder/ADHD/gender identity issues/and substance abuse related issues.
I love to help others. It has been my passion ever since I was a teenager. I want to be a positive support and teach others how to be the best version of themselves. It is so rewarding to be part of another person's journey and see them accomplish their goals. I also want to be the major point of support for someone that I wish I had and needed when I was younger.
I have a great deal of experience working with those struggling with depression/anxiety/bipolar disorder/ADHD/gender identity issues/and substance abuse related issues.
I love to help others. It has been my passion ever since I was a teenager. I want to be a positive support and teach others how to be the best version of themselves. It is so rewarding to be part of another person's journey and see them accomplish their goals. I also want to be the major point of support for someone that I wish I had and needed when I was younger.
(609) 928-8273 View (609) 928-8273
Photo of Richard Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Middlesex County, NJ
Richard Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Plainsboro, NJ 08536
Richard is licensed by the State of New Jersey as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and is a National Board Certified Counselor (NBCC). Richard has over eight years of experience working with a wide range of adults and families in the mental health field settings at the Outpatient, Intensive Outpatient, Residential, Intensive In-Community Settings. Richard has experience with various issues, including Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Grief, Stress, Substance Abuse, Peer Relationships, Anger Management, Men’s Issues, and Domestic Violence.
Richard is licensed by the State of New Jersey as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and is a National Board Certified Counselor (NBCC). Richard has over eight years of experience working with a wide range of adults and families in the mental health field settings at the Outpatient, Intensive Outpatient, Residential, Intensive In-Community Settings. Richard has experience with various issues, including Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Grief, Stress, Substance Abuse, Peer Relationships, Anger Management, Men’s Issues, and Domestic Violence.
(908) 916-3602 View (908) 916-3602
Photo of Philip Jaisohn Counseling Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Middlesex County, NJ
Philip Jaisohn Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New Brunswick, NJ 08901
We have experience treating clients with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, educational issues, and eating disorders.
We want to welcome clients who might be new to therapy but have struggled for a long time with depression, anxiety, family conflict or other mental health issues. You might have avoided therapy because of stigma or misconceptions. You feel overwhelmed at times and feel that now is the time to seek help. We can speak to anyone living in New Jersey and Pennsylvania through the convenience of tele-therapy. We have English and Korean speaking therapists who are compassionate and want to make therapy a comfortable experience for you.
We have experience treating clients with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, educational issues, and eating disorders.
We want to welcome clients who might be new to therapy but have struggled for a long time with depression, anxiety, family conflict or other mental health issues. You might have avoided therapy because of stigma or misconceptions. You feel overwhelmed at times and feel that now is the time to seek help. We can speak to anyone living in New Jersey and Pennsylvania through the convenience of tele-therapy. We have English and Korean speaking therapists who are compassionate and want to make therapy a comfortable experience for you.
(844) 982-2464 View (844) 982-2464
Photo of Richard Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Middlesex County, NJ
Richard Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Richard is licensed by the State of New Jersey as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and is a National Board Certified Counselor (NBCC). Richard has over eight years of experience working with a wide range of adults and families in the mental health field settings at the Outpatient, Intensive Outpatient, Residential, Intensive In-Community Settings. Richard has experience with various issues, including Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Grief, Stress, Substance Abuse, Peer Relationships, Anger Management, Men’s Issues, and Domestic Violence.
Richard is licensed by the State of New Jersey as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and is a National Board Certified Counselor (NBCC). Richard has over eight years of experience working with a wide range of adults and families in the mental health field settings at the Outpatient, Intensive Outpatient, Residential, Intensive In-Community Settings. Richard has experience with various issues, including Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Grief, Stress, Substance Abuse, Peer Relationships, Anger Management, Men’s Issues, and Domestic Violence.
(908) 867-9023 View (908) 867-9023
Photo of Felipe A. Lau, Licensed Professional Counselor in Middlesex County, NJ
Felipe A. Lau
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Perth Amboy, NJ 08861  (Online Only)
I have experience treating several mental health issues including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, PTSD, psychotic disorders, substance use disorders, grief and loss, and family and relationship stressors.
Hi, my name is Felipe, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I received my Master of Arts in Counseling from Montclair State University with a concentration in Community Counseling. I am a bilingual therapist and can conduct therapy sessions in English and Spanish. I have 15 years of experience as a mental health professional with the opportunity to work with various ages and backgrounds in different clinical settings. I have experience providing individual therapy and use a person-centered approach. I utilize concepts and tools from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
I have experience treating several mental health issues including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, PTSD, psychotic disorders, substance use disorders, grief and loss, and family and relationship stressors.
Hi, my name is Felipe, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I received my Master of Arts in Counseling from Montclair State University with a concentration in Community Counseling. I am a bilingual therapist and can conduct therapy sessions in English and Spanish. I have 15 years of experience as a mental health professional with the opportunity to work with various ages and backgrounds in different clinical settings. I have experience providing individual therapy and use a person-centered approach. I utilize concepts and tools from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
(973) 490-4787 View (973) 490-4787
Photo of Dr. Rakhee Krishna, Psychologist in Middlesex County, NJ
Dr. Rakhee Krishna
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Brunswick, NJ 08816  (Online Only)
I also work with developmental disorders like LD, ADHD, Autism and chronic mental health conditions such as Bipolar disorder , Psychosis or painful physical conditions that might seem like a hurdle to progress in life.
If you think that your quality of life is marred by anxiety, depression, relationship issues, parenting challenges, grief and pain from personnel or material losses or chronic physical conditions or if you see yourself getting into a pattern of making self- sabotaging choices in your life , give yourself the chance to experience life differently. Allow me to guide you make a break through. I work with children, teens, adults, couples and families who are facing behavioral & emotional regulation issues, stress while navigating difficult relationships or life's challenges in general.
I also work with developmental disorders like LD, ADHD, Autism and chronic mental health conditions such as Bipolar disorder , Psychosis or painful physical conditions that might seem like a hurdle to progress in life.
If you think that your quality of life is marred by anxiety, depression, relationship issues, parenting challenges, grief and pain from personnel or material losses or chronic physical conditions or if you see yourself getting into a pattern of making self- sabotaging choices in your life , give yourself the chance to experience life differently. Allow me to guide you make a break through. I work with children, teens, adults, couples and families who are facing behavioral & emotional regulation issues, stress while navigating difficult relationships or life's challenges in general.
(732) 629-9809 View (732) 629-9809
Photo of Lisa Tortorello Gilligan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Middlesex County, NJ
Lisa Tortorello Gilligan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, NJ 07095
Depression, life coaching, marital/couple issues, bipolar are my specialty and I have over 18 years of counseling experience with all the the above to help you.
Life has its bright moments, but it can also have its dark side. When you find yourself spending more time in the dark times than the bright times, it's time to come and see a therapist. I can help you come back into the brightness of life and teach you how to spend most of your time there.
Depression, life coaching, marital/couple issues, bipolar are my specialty and I have over 18 years of counseling experience with all the the above to help you.
Life has its bright moments, but it can also have its dark side. When you find yourself spending more time in the dark times than the bright times, it's time to come and see a therapist. I can help you come back into the brightness of life and teach you how to spend most of your time there.
(732) 641-3119 View (732) 641-3119
Photo of Therese Reseska, Counselor in Middlesex County, NJ
Therese Reseska
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Piscataway, NJ 08854  (Online Only)
My experience includes work with adult clients who have difficulty with substance abuse issues; individuals who have experienced a traumatic event in their lives; young adults who are experiencing a first episode of psychosis; individuals who suffer from persistent mental illness such as Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder; and college students.
Therapy is a multi-faceted process that involves increasing self-awareness and problem-solving. The process is enhanced by active engagement between a client and a therapist, who build a collaborative and trusting relationship. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Licensed Clinical and Alcohol Drug Counselor (LCADC) in the state of New Jersey, and I have over 20+ years of experience as a Mental Health Clinician within a local community mental health agency in central NJ. I help individuals resolve problems and transform patterns of feeling, thinking, and behavior, so they can create a life that is more fulfilling.
My experience includes work with adult clients who have difficulty with substance abuse issues; individuals who have experienced a traumatic event in their lives; young adults who are experiencing a first episode of psychosis; individuals who suffer from persistent mental illness such as Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder; and college students.
Therapy is a multi-faceted process that involves increasing self-awareness and problem-solving. The process is enhanced by active engagement between a client and a therapist, who build a collaborative and trusting relationship. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Licensed Clinical and Alcohol Drug Counselor (LCADC) in the state of New Jersey, and I have over 20+ years of experience as a Mental Health Clinician within a local community mental health agency in central NJ. I help individuals resolve problems and transform patterns of feeling, thinking, and behavior, so they can create a life that is more fulfilling.
(201) 350-1621 View (201) 350-1621
Photo of Justin Cianciotto, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Middlesex County, NJ
Justin Cianciotto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
He has expertise treating alcohol and drug use, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, couple's issues, depression, gender identity, grief, men's issues, midlife transitions, post-partum depression/anxiety, psychosis/schizophrenia, PTSD/trauma, school avoidance, sleep disorders/insomnia, and women's issues.
Justin Cianciotto is a Licensed Social Worker in New Jersey with 5 years of experience. He earned a Bachelor in Psychology from Ramapo College and a Master in Social Work from Rutgers University. Justin believes in the importance of creating a caring, trusting, and empathetic environment to empower clients to share their experiences and begin the healing process.
He has expertise treating alcohol and drug use, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, couple's issues, depression, gender identity, grief, men's issues, midlife transitions, post-partum depression/anxiety, psychosis/schizophrenia, PTSD/trauma, school avoidance, sleep disorders/insomnia, and women's issues.
Justin Cianciotto is a Licensed Social Worker in New Jersey with 5 years of experience. He earned a Bachelor in Psychology from Ramapo College and a Master in Social Work from Rutgers University. Justin believes in the importance of creating a caring, trusting, and empathetic environment to empower clients to share their experiences and begin the healing process.
(732) 631-8997 View (732) 631-8997
Photo of Pascale Augustin, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Middlesex County, NJ
Pascale Augustin
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
I have been working as a Social worker/ Substance abuse Counselor for 24 years. My Primary focus is bipolar, depression , working with youth from 12 years old and older, family counseling, anxiety disorder substance abuse, anger management and couple counseling. I work with an APN who can provide medication monitoring.
I have been working as a Social worker/ Substance abuse Counselor for 24 years. My Primary focus is bipolar, depression , working with youth from 12 years old and older, family counseling, anxiety disorder substance abuse, anger management and couple counseling. I work with an APN who can provide medication monitoring.
(973) 457-3250 View (973) 457-3250
Photo of Ashley Goodman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Middlesex County, NJ
Ashley Goodman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
I am a licensed professional counselor who specializes in treating adults with various mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. I have experience in both inpatient and outpatient treatment, which has included treating substance use disorders. I obtained my Bachelors degree at New Jersey City University and my Masters degree at William Paterson University of New Jersey.
I am a licensed professional counselor who specializes in treating adults with various mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. I have experience in both inpatient and outpatient treatment, which has included treating substance use disorders. I obtained my Bachelors degree at New Jersey City University and my Masters degree at William Paterson University of New Jersey.
(732) 538-9349 View (732) 538-9349
Photo of Jay Weintraub, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Middlesex County, NJ
Jay Weintraub
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Metuchen, NJ 08840  (Online Only)
I have experience working with people who are depressed, who have Bipolar Disorder and anxiety issues.
Hi my name is Jay Weintraub, and I graduated from Rutgers University in 1991 with an MSW. I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 1995. I have 29 years of experience working in a variety of clinical settings including inpatient, partial care, and outpatient care. I enjoy working with adults, children, adolescents and couples. I never trivialize the things that people discuss. I work with people to problem solve and not to judge.
I have experience working with people who are depressed, who have Bipolar Disorder and anxiety issues.
Hi my name is Jay Weintraub, and I graduated from Rutgers University in 1991 with an MSW. I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 1995. I have 29 years of experience working in a variety of clinical settings including inpatient, partial care, and outpatient care. I enjoy working with adults, children, adolescents and couples. I never trivialize the things that people discuss. I work with people to problem solve and not to judge.
(732) 491-8767 View (732) 491-8767
Photo of Joan E Brown, Licensed Professional Counselor in Middlesex County, NJ
Joan E Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, CIMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
My experience includes working with families and individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, job loss, financial stress, self-esteem issues, stress management, co-dependency, marriage and relationship difficulties, pre-marital preparation and youth challenges.
My goal is to help provide insight and the tools you need to move beyond limiting beliefs and behaviors. Using an integrated holistic approach to counseling, I combine temperament therapy, psychotherapy, nutritional and integrative medicine and Biblical truths, creating a nonjudgmental and safe place for families, couples and individuals to share their issues and fears to attain healing and hope. Certified as a SYMBIS & PREPARE/ENRICH facilitator, I will help you to prepare for or strengthen your marriage. I will help you to navigate through the changes of life, taking you from where you are to where you want to be.
My experience includes working with families and individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, job loss, financial stress, self-esteem issues, stress management, co-dependency, marriage and relationship difficulties, pre-marital preparation and youth challenges.
My goal is to help provide insight and the tools you need to move beyond limiting beliefs and behaviors. Using an integrated holistic approach to counseling, I combine temperament therapy, psychotherapy, nutritional and integrative medicine and Biblical truths, creating a nonjudgmental and safe place for families, couples and individuals to share their issues and fears to attain healing and hope. Certified as a SYMBIS & PREPARE/ENRICH facilitator, I will help you to prepare for or strengthen your marriage. I will help you to navigate through the changes of life, taking you from where you are to where you want to be.
(848) 260-4768 View (848) 260-4768
Photo of Vanessa Daza-Heck, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Middlesex County, NJ
Vanessa Daza-Heck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland Park, NJ 08904  (Online Only)
I am a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has trained in the United States and abroad. I have worked with individuals who may be coping with depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, complex post traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, and/or other chronic mental illness. My primary focus in individual sessions is to empower my clients with a mixture of empathy and humor to work together in defining and reaching their goals.
I am a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has trained in the United States and abroad. I have worked with individuals who may be coping with depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, complex post traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, and/or other chronic mental illness. My primary focus in individual sessions is to empower my clients with a mixture of empathy and humor to work together in defining and reaching their goals.
(732) 374-3918 View (732) 374-3918

See more therapy options for Middlesex County

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.