Photo of Jean Campbell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Jean Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I have experience working with adults and adolescents diagnosed with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder and Schizophrenia.
As a therapist I meet you where you are in life and join with you for a time on your journey to self-improvement. On this journey, it is so important to feel heard. Therapy is about being heard and empowering you to use your voice to be the person you want to be and to lead the life you want to lead. I listen deeply as we work together to identify and meet your therapeutic goals. I believe the environment is a part of the whole person that impacts one’s emotional, mental and physical well-being and needs to be considered in therapy. I invite your feedback regarding what is working and not working for you in our therapy sessions.
I have experience working with adults and adolescents diagnosed with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder and Schizophrenia.
As a therapist I meet you where you are in life and join with you for a time on your journey to self-improvement. On this journey, it is so important to feel heard. Therapy is about being heard and empowering you to use your voice to be the person you want to be and to lead the life you want to lead. I listen deeply as we work together to identify and meet your therapeutic goals. I believe the environment is a part of the whole person that impacts one’s emotional, mental and physical well-being and needs to be considered in therapy. I invite your feedback regarding what is working and not working for you in our therapy sessions.
(610) 609-2958 View (610) 609-2958
Photo of Michael Clemente, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Michael Clemente
Licensed Professional Counselor, BCBA, LPC, NCC, LBS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19128
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 Innovatel Medical, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Innovatel Medical
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19109  (Online Only)
Our multidisciplinary team of highly skilled psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, therapists, care coordinators and care managers offer compassionate, personalized care including therapy and medication management to meet the unique needs of individuals including stress, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, sleep difficulties, trauma, PTSD and many more.
At Innovatel Medical our expert team of providers bring tailored mental wellness right to your home via telehealth. Your behavioral health needs are specific to you, and your care should be, too. From therapy services to medication assistance and prescribing, our accessible virtual services are your passport to a happier, healthier you – all from the comfort of your home. Don't let your mental health struggles hold you back; let us help guide you through your own unique journey of success and well-being.
Our multidisciplinary team of highly skilled psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, therapists, care coordinators and care managers offer compassionate, personalized care including therapy and medication management to meet the unique needs of individuals including stress, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, sleep difficulties, trauma, PTSD and many more.
At Innovatel Medical our expert team of providers bring tailored mental wellness right to your home via telehealth. Your behavioral health needs are specific to you, and your care should be, too. From therapy services to medication assistance and prescribing, our accessible virtual services are your passport to a happier, healthier you – all from the comfort of your home. Don't let your mental health struggles hold you back; let us help guide you through your own unique journey of success and well-being.
(267) 490-3963 View (267) 490-3963
Photo of Cody Weaver, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Cody Weaver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
Things I've treated most are depression, anxiety, LGBTQIA issues, trauma, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, and ADHD.
Hello! My name is Cody (he/him) and I'm currently licensed as an LCSW/therapist in Pennsylvania. I received by Bachelors degree from Coastal Carolina University in 2010 and then my Masters degree from Winthrop University in 2012. I began practicing while I was in graduate school so I'm currently on my 13th year of practice. My clinical background includes outpatient therapy, in-home therapy, integrated behavioral health and primary care, inpatient treatment, and forensic psychology. Since I've run a large span of different practices I consider myself a jack-of-all trades when it comes to mental health and therapy.
Things I've treated most are depression, anxiety, LGBTQIA issues, trauma, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, and ADHD.
Hello! My name is Cody (he/him) and I'm currently licensed as an LCSW/therapist in Pennsylvania. I received by Bachelors degree from Coastal Carolina University in 2010 and then my Masters degree from Winthrop University in 2012. I began practicing while I was in graduate school so I'm currently on my 13th year of practice. My clinical background includes outpatient therapy, in-home therapy, integrated behavioral health and primary care, inpatient treatment, and forensic psychology. Since I've run a large span of different practices I consider myself a jack-of-all trades when it comes to mental health and therapy.
(484) 699-0906 View (484) 699-0906
Photo of Crystal Somerville, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Crystal Somerville
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19107  (Online Only)
My professional expertise includes working with clients who have ADHD, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Adjustment Disorders, Anger Management and Substance Abuse treatment.
I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). I was born and raised in New Jersey and lived in Pennsylvania for many years. I moved to Virginia in 2013 and now call Lynchburg home. My hobbies include hiking, kayaking, singing, dancing, painting and spending time with family and friends. I have had the amazing opportunity to serve children, adolescents and families for over twenty years in a variety of mental health settings including residential treatment, boot camp, community, outpatient and group settings. I’m an expert witness for the Juvenile and Family court system of VA. I utilize an honest, direct, client-centered approach.
My professional expertise includes working with clients who have ADHD, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Adjustment Disorders, Anger Management and Substance Abuse treatment.
I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). I was born and raised in New Jersey and lived in Pennsylvania for many years. I moved to Virginia in 2013 and now call Lynchburg home. My hobbies include hiking, kayaking, singing, dancing, painting and spending time with family and friends. I have had the amazing opportunity to serve children, adolescents and families for over twenty years in a variety of mental health settings including residential treatment, boot camp, community, outpatient and group settings. I’m an expert witness for the Juvenile and Family court system of VA. I utilize an honest, direct, client-centered approach.
(617) 379-0496 x915 View (617) 379-0496 x915
Photo of Deborah Lawson Morgan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Deborah Lawson Morgan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MHS-C, LPC, NCC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19113
In my practice, I provide a friendly and non-judgmental approach. I am a Licensed Mental Health Care provider with more than eight years of experience in the treatment of adults and adolescents with a history of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, BPD, and trauma-related disorders. Currently, I am in the process of being paneled by some insurance companies, but for now, I accept cash & credit/debit cards. I offer appropriate resources for the care needed, ensuring that my clients feel safe to open themselves up and focus on their mental and emotional health. My sessions are currently conducted online.
In my practice, I provide a friendly and non-judgmental approach. I am a Licensed Mental Health Care provider with more than eight years of experience in the treatment of adults and adolescents with a history of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, BPD, and trauma-related disorders. Currently, I am in the process of being paneled by some insurance companies, but for now, I accept cash & credit/debit cards. I offer appropriate resources for the care needed, ensuring that my clients feel safe to open themselves up and focus on their mental and emotional health. My sessions are currently conducted online.
(484) 326-3575 View (484) 326-3575
Photo of Vanessa Evearts, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Vanessa Evearts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW, CPMC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
Living with depression, anxiety, or knowing something isn’t right but not knowing what to call it can be overwhelming and feel defeating. As a therapist and a human being I have seen the immense strength it takes to make the first step to ask for help and support. Your recovery and healing journey begins with you, who you are as a person and your experiences. I believe that you have immeasurable tools and strengths inside waiting to be discovered. I have been a therapist for the last 10 years providing therapy to adults living with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, self-esteem issues and psychotic disorders.
Living with depression, anxiety, or knowing something isn’t right but not knowing what to call it can be overwhelming and feel defeating. As a therapist and a human being I have seen the immense strength it takes to make the first step to ask for help and support. Your recovery and healing journey begins with you, who you are as a person and your experiences. I believe that you have immeasurable tools and strengths inside waiting to be discovered. I have been a therapist for the last 10 years providing therapy to adults living with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, self-esteem issues and psychotic disorders.
(484) 715-8571 View (484) 715-8571
Photo of Lori Ezzedine, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Lori Ezzedine
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
I have worked with clients with diagnoses ranging from anxiety and depression to bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.
I believe that everyone is unique in their own way and that everyone's personal background brings a unique perspective. I aim to explore that perspective and help guide client’s in a place where they feel safe and comfortable. This allows for mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual growth. I create an individualized treatment plan for each client and help them develop realistic and attainable goals. Psychoeducation is an intervention I often incorporate and I tend to put an emphasis on coping skills, self care, and healthy boundaries, as they are all a very important piece of the healing and growing process.
I have worked with clients with diagnoses ranging from anxiety and depression to bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.
I believe that everyone is unique in their own way and that everyone's personal background brings a unique perspective. I aim to explore that perspective and help guide client’s in a place where they feel safe and comfortable. This allows for mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual growth. I create an individualized treatment plan for each client and help them develop realistic and attainable goals. Psychoeducation is an intervention I often incorporate and I tend to put an emphasis on coping skills, self care, and healthy boundaries, as they are all a very important piece of the healing and growing process.
(484) 969-8639 View (484) 969-8639
Photo of Gary Ames, Psychologist in Philadelphia, PA
Gary Ames
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19131
I love my approach to brain wave training with neurofeedback. It is broadly effective at producing substantial results in your life that are enduring. Most often I see people with anxiety, depression, insomnia, ADHD, migraine, PTSD, addictions, bipolar and autism. I believe that most people with psychological issues have brain wave activity that is either over-aroused or under-aroused. That is, either too much or too little brain wave activity in either the fast or slow frequencies. Mental problems are a timing issue in the brain. These timing issues can be corrected by practicing a better way to function.
I love my approach to brain wave training with neurofeedback. It is broadly effective at producing substantial results in your life that are enduring. Most often I see people with anxiety, depression, insomnia, ADHD, migraine, PTSD, addictions, bipolar and autism. I believe that most people with psychological issues have brain wave activity that is either over-aroused or under-aroused. That is, either too much or too little brain wave activity in either the fast or slow frequencies. Mental problems are a timing issue in the brain. These timing issues can be corrected by practicing a better way to function.
(610) 546-2154 View (610) 546-2154
Photo of Dan Livney, Psychologist in Philadelphia, PA
Dan Livney
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19119
Sometimes they may come with diagnoses such as bipolar and borderline disorders, or psychosis.
How does the "talking cure" help? It might have even been called the "listening cure." Having a helpful and supportive ear is something many people find they need at various transition points in their lives. Having a safe place to talk, in a warm and supportive environment, is crucial. The tool of our work is the relationship and, as research has shown, is the most important predictor of success in psychotherapy. I enjoy working with my patients as they seek to find their way to a richer and more fulfilling life.
Sometimes they may come with diagnoses such as bipolar and borderline disorders, or psychosis.
How does the "talking cure" help? It might have even been called the "listening cure." Having a helpful and supportive ear is something many people find they need at various transition points in their lives. Having a safe place to talk, in a warm and supportive environment, is crucial. The tool of our work is the relationship and, as research has shown, is the most important predictor of success in psychotherapy. I enjoy working with my patients as they seek to find their way to a richer and more fulfilling life.
(484) 577-2944 View (484) 577-2944
Photo of Sonya Berman-Brodsky, Pre-Licensed Professional in Philadelphia, PA
Sonya Berman-Brodsky
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19128
As a pre-licensed psychologist specializing in sex therapy, I work with individuals facing various challenges, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, familial and relational conflicts, self-esteem, and LGBTQ+ concerns.
Navigating life's challenges can be tough. We all need an outlet at times! I’m dedicated to providing a safe, comfortable therapeutic space, recognizing how overwhelming/intimidating the journey can be. Building a genuine connection is crucial to me—expect no cold interactions; I'll always be authentically myself, and yes, humor might find its way into our sessions!
As a pre-licensed psychologist specializing in sex therapy, I work with individuals facing various challenges, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, familial and relational conflicts, self-esteem, and LGBTQ+ concerns.
Navigating life's challenges can be tough. We all need an outlet at times! I’m dedicated to providing a safe, comfortable therapeutic space, recognizing how overwhelming/intimidating the journey can be. Building a genuine connection is crucial to me—expect no cold interactions; I'll always be authentically myself, and yes, humor might find its way into our sessions!
(215) 883-4854 View (215) 883-4854
Photo of Marnie Stanton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Marnie Stanton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19147  (Online Only)
I work with individuals who are navigating difficult seasons of life, seeking support in processing painful events and challenges and in finding the best next steps to take. I assist clients with adjustment to stressors and life transitions, depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, postpartum depression, grief and loss, self-criticism, shame and self-doubt. My greatest passion in this work is helping clients to identify their strengths, recognize their own worth and develop a stronger and more compassionate sense of self. In doing this, it becomes easier for clients to process pain, learn new skills and pursue their goals.
I work with individuals who are navigating difficult seasons of life, seeking support in processing painful events and challenges and in finding the best next steps to take. I assist clients with adjustment to stressors and life transitions, depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, postpartum depression, grief and loss, self-criticism, shame and self-doubt. My greatest passion in this work is helping clients to identify their strengths, recognize their own worth and develop a stronger and more compassionate sense of self. In doing this, it becomes easier for clients to process pain, learn new skills and pursue their goals.
(412) 991-1084 View (412) 991-1084
Photo of Patricia Gherovici, Licensed Psychoanalyst in Philadelphia, PA
Patricia Gherovici
Licensed Psychoanalyst, PhD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19146
In my practice I offer a welcoming setting and provide a safe space for your suffering or difficulties. When you speak about yourself to someone who is trained to listen and examine the circumstances that motivated your consultation, a change occurs. A psychoanalyst is a person trained to hear what is happening under the surface, and provides a place where you may speak and hear yourself differently. I have been working as a psychoanalyst and psychotherapist for 25 years and I have found that words can hurt, words can make people sick, but words can also save. Talking cures.
In my practice I offer a welcoming setting and provide a safe space for your suffering or difficulties. When you speak about yourself to someone who is trained to listen and examine the circumstances that motivated your consultation, a change occurs. A psychoanalyst is a person trained to hear what is happening under the surface, and provides a place where you may speak and hear yourself differently. I have been working as a psychoanalyst and psychotherapist for 25 years and I have found that words can hurt, words can make people sick, but words can also save. Talking cures.
(215) 642-8654 View (215) 642-8654
Photo of Jessica Pavelka, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Jessica Pavelka
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CYT
Verified Verified
31 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19130
Do you often feel anxious or overwhelmed? Is a lack of motivation keeping you from doing the things you want to do? Whether you're dealing with feelings of sadness, anger, irritability, or using unhealthy coping strategies, I'm here to accompany you on your journey toward inner wellness. What does fulfillment mean to you, and what barriers hinder you from achieving it? In our sessions, we will explore these topics alongside your goals. I will offer valuable insights, tools, and unwavering support. My multi-faceted approach is tailored to meet your unique needs.
Do you often feel anxious or overwhelmed? Is a lack of motivation keeping you from doing the things you want to do? Whether you're dealing with feelings of sadness, anger, irritability, or using unhealthy coping strategies, I'm here to accompany you on your journey toward inner wellness. What does fulfillment mean to you, and what barriers hinder you from achieving it? In our sessions, we will explore these topics alongside your goals. I will offer valuable insights, tools, and unwavering support. My multi-faceted approach is tailored to meet your unique needs.
(267) 733-6437 View (267) 733-6437
Photo of Taking Time to Care, Pre-Licensed Professional in Philadelphia, PA
Taking Time to Care
Pre-Licensed Professional, BS, MS, LBC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19104
My goal is to allow client to openly address their levels of fear, depression and issues relating to their disorder. Many factors from past encounters result in high levels of depression and mental health conditions. My goal is to allow my client to address these fears and use my services as a three stage process to function independently with the least amount of medication and therapeutic interventions as possible. My overall goal is to address condition using alternative therapeutic problem solving interventions, while at the same time helping them to make changes based on their current condition. Phone session is free!!!
My goal is to allow client to openly address their levels of fear, depression and issues relating to their disorder. Many factors from past encounters result in high levels of depression and mental health conditions. My goal is to allow my client to address these fears and use my services as a three stage process to function independently with the least amount of medication and therapeutic interventions as possible. My overall goal is to address condition using alternative therapeutic problem solving interventions, while at the same time helping them to make changes based on their current condition. Phone session is free!!!
(267) 933-2651 View (267) 933-2651
Photo of Mind Body Soul Wellness Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Mind Body Soul Wellness Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, TF-CBT, LMT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19115
Finally science and spirit integrated services... I combine the mind, the body and the soul into my therapy and offer multiple services to treat each aspect of them. I specialize in helping those who are still spiritually connected and still treat all. I am pending insurance contracts where I will treat the body with Myofascial Release and the ming with Mental Health Therapy.
Finally science and spirit integrated services... I combine the mind, the body and the soul into my therapy and offer multiple services to treat each aspect of them. I specialize in helping those who are still spiritually connected and still treat all. I am pending insurance contracts where I will treat the body with Myofascial Release and the ming with Mental Health Therapy.
(215) 660-5198 View (215) 660-5198
Photo of Thomas A Bartlett, Psychologist in Philadelphia, PA
Thomas A Bartlett
Psychologist, MA, FIPA
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19146
Covid-19: Meet by Zoom or in person. For over 30 years, I have offered attentive and thoughtful psychotherapy and psychoanalysis in a comfortable home office with a private waiting area. My style has been described as welcoming, engaging, flexible and "serious yet playful". I work with a wide range of problems: work and relationships struggles, depression, anxiety, insomnia, alcohol abuse, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, personality disorders and many other matters people bring up. I am slow to recommend medication, but work in concert with a number of psychiatrists should either of us believe medication might be beneficial.
Covid-19: Meet by Zoom or in person. For over 30 years, I have offered attentive and thoughtful psychotherapy and psychoanalysis in a comfortable home office with a private waiting area. My style has been described as welcoming, engaging, flexible and "serious yet playful". I work with a wide range of problems: work and relationships struggles, depression, anxiety, insomnia, alcohol abuse, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, personality disorders and many other matters people bring up. I am slow to recommend medication, but work in concert with a number of psychiatrists should either of us believe medication might be beneficial.
(267) 419-6440 View (267) 419-6440
Photo of Leah Spyker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Leah Spyker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I specialize in Substance Use, Anxiety, & Grief. Life can feel overwhelming at times, and it's okay to seek support. Whether you're navigating through difficult emotions, facing challenges in relationships, or simply need someone to listen, know that you're not alone. My ideal client is someone who wants to begin their treatment journey. They might be nervous or scared to begin, but they have made their first step to at least try.
I specialize in Substance Use, Anxiety, & Grief. Life can feel overwhelming at times, and it's okay to seek support. Whether you're navigating through difficult emotions, facing challenges in relationships, or simply need someone to listen, know that you're not alone. My ideal client is someone who wants to begin their treatment journey. They might be nervous or scared to begin, but they have made their first step to at least try.
(267) 849-1369 View (267) 849-1369
Photo of Philip Sunseri, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Philip Sunseri
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
Hello! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in western Pennsylvania. I received my master's degree from Westminster College (PA) in 2021 and bachelor's degree from Slippery Rock University in 2018. I currently work as an LPC at a nonprofit outpatient mental health organization during the day, and see clients through Grow during the evenings. I enjoy helping others be the best versions of themselves and watching them be able to overcome life's toughest obstacles.
Hello! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in western Pennsylvania. I received my master's degree from Westminster College (PA) in 2021 and bachelor's degree from Slippery Rock University in 2018. I currently work as an LPC at a nonprofit outpatient mental health organization during the day, and see clients through Grow during the evenings. I enjoy helping others be the best versions of themselves and watching them be able to overcome life's toughest obstacles.
(484) 900-8071 View (484) 900-8071
Photo of Noël K Bruno, Psychologist in Philadelphia, PA
Noël K Bruno
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19107
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with more than 20 years experience in the field treating child, adolescent, and adult clients in residential, outpatient, and private practice settings. Additionally, I am well versed at providing mental health evaluations and expert witness testimony for clients who are involved in a litigation process. My style is direct yet nurturing. I work in a flexible manner, inviting clients to come alone or bring whomever will support them into their sessions. My ideal client is the one who completes the first difficult step of calling for an appointment.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with more than 20 years experience in the field treating child, adolescent, and adult clients in residential, outpatient, and private practice settings. Additionally, I am well versed at providing mental health evaluations and expert witness testimony for clients who are involved in a litigation process. My style is direct yet nurturing. I work in a flexible manner, inviting clients to come alone or bring whomever will support them into their sessions. My ideal client is the one who completes the first difficult step of calling for an appointment.
(267) 388-4840 View (267) 388-4840

See more therapy options for Philadelphia

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.