Photo of Olivia Anita Carelli, Psychologist in Stuart, FL
Olivia Anita Carelli
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Stuart, FL 34994
I treat teenagers, adults, and families experiencing depression, anxiety, OCD, complex trauma/dissociation, eating disorders, borderline personality disorder, suicidality, self-harm, substance abuse, and bipolar disorder. I focus on emotions + family dynamics and incorporate CBT/DBT skills. I have worked in residential treatment for eating disorders and in a clinic specifically for complex trauma. My ideal client wants relief from emotional pain or to connect with life in a way that brings them joy and purpose. I believe self-discovery and the acquisition of insight can end suffering and begin the process of healing.
I treat teenagers, adults, and families experiencing depression, anxiety, OCD, complex trauma/dissociation, eating disorders, borderline personality disorder, suicidality, self-harm, substance abuse, and bipolar disorder. I focus on emotions + family dynamics and incorporate CBT/DBT skills. I have worked in residential treatment for eating disorders and in a clinic specifically for complex trauma. My ideal client wants relief from emotional pain or to connect with life in a way that brings them joy and purpose. I believe self-discovery and the acquisition of insight can end suffering and begin the process of healing.
(954) 231-0575 View (954) 231-0575
Photo of Center for Mood Disorders Inc, Counselor in Stuart, FL
Center for Mood Disorders Inc
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stuart, FL 34994  (Online Only)
My goal is to provide real relief and alleviate emotional distress using intensive brief therapies for Bipolar and Mood Disorders, Anxiety, Trauma, Grief, Psychosis, Phobias, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders, ADHD, and Interpersonal Conflict. I offer a comfortable and nurturing environment, tailor specific treatment goals to each individual client's needs, and utilize complimentary natural solutions to help the mind and body in recovery. Individual and family psychotherapy treatment focus includes: Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma - Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Multicultural Counseling, Intensive two week outpatient programs are also offered for clients and families in crisis.
My goal is to provide real relief and alleviate emotional distress using intensive brief therapies for Bipolar and Mood Disorders, Anxiety, Trauma, Grief, Psychosis, Phobias, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders, ADHD, and Interpersonal Conflict. I offer a comfortable and nurturing environment, tailor specific treatment goals to each individual client's needs, and utilize complimentary natural solutions to help the mind and body in recovery. Individual and family psychotherapy treatment focus includes: Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma - Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Multicultural Counseling, Intensive two week outpatient programs are also offered for clients and families in crisis.
(772) 617-4468 View (772) 617-4468
Photo of Lisa Smalheiser, Psychologist in Stuart, FL
Lisa Smalheiser
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Stuart, FL 34994
I specialize in mood disorders, such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, and also work with individuals who struggle in areas such as PTSD, marital distress, behavioral issues, and self-esteem.
"Sometimes, the hardest part is getting started. What you do today matters, because you are trading a day of your life for it." I'm here to help you through this next part of your journey. My name is Dr. Smalheiser, and I'm a licensed clinical psychologist in South Florida. I have been in the mental health field for over 10 years, and love what I do. Day in and day out, I see people making positive changes in their lives, working collaboratively with me in order to better themselves in whatever way that means for each person.
I specialize in mood disorders, such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, and also work with individuals who struggle in areas such as PTSD, marital distress, behavioral issues, and self-esteem.
"Sometimes, the hardest part is getting started. What you do today matters, because you are trading a day of your life for it." I'm here to help you through this next part of your journey. My name is Dr. Smalheiser, and I'm a licensed clinical psychologist in South Florida. I have been in the mental health field for over 10 years, and love what I do. Day in and day out, I see people making positive changes in their lives, working collaboratively with me in order to better themselves in whatever way that means for each person.
(561) 250-7585 View (561) 250-7585
Photo of Lynn Varela. Emotional Support Animal letter, Counselor in Stuart, FL
Lynn Varela. Emotional Support Animal letter
Counselor, PhD, MS, LMHC, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Stuart, FL 34994
My greatest reward as a therapist is helping my clients explore ways to make the changes in their lives that will allow them to look forward to the future with hope. I believe that we all need someone to talk with who will really listen and accept us as we are, without judgment. I provide my clients with that warm, nonjudgmental environment-a safe place to explore the issues that may be preventing you from living the life you want. Using clinically tested and evidenced-based interventions, I have worked with over 200 individuals since 2011 in my private practice. I work exclusively with adult women.
My greatest reward as a therapist is helping my clients explore ways to make the changes in their lives that will allow them to look forward to the future with hope. I believe that we all need someone to talk with who will really listen and accept us as we are, without judgment. I provide my clients with that warm, nonjudgmental environment-a safe place to explore the issues that may be preventing you from living the life you want. Using clinically tested and evidenced-based interventions, I have worked with over 200 individuals since 2011 in my private practice. I work exclusively with adult women.
(561) 600-5621 View (561) 600-5621
Photo of Stacey Hellow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Stuart, FL
Stacey Hellow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Stuart, FL 34994  (Online Only)
There are times in our lives when we need assistance to help us in meeting our individual and family goals. Life can take a turn that we are not ready for. Change can be expected or unanticipated, leaving the individual with anxieties and stressors that are difficult to process! My role is to help you explore healthy coping mechanisms and understand your individual needs. I am a Psychotherapist with a PhD in Psychology and LCSW. I have spent the past 27 years working with individuals, families, and, adolescents, as well as advocating for victims of crime and first responders.
There are times in our lives when we need assistance to help us in meeting our individual and family goals. Life can take a turn that we are not ready for. Change can be expected or unanticipated, leaving the individual with anxieties and stressors that are difficult to process! My role is to help you explore healthy coping mechanisms and understand your individual needs. I am a Psychotherapist with a PhD in Psychology and LCSW. I have spent the past 27 years working with individuals, families, and, adolescents, as well as advocating for victims of crime and first responders.
(772) 242-9706 View (772) 242-9706
Reviving Sanctuary LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSEd , LCSW, CCTP , RRT-PR
Verified Verified
Stuart, FL 34994
The focus of Reviving Sanctuary is offered in the name. Services support the specific therapeutic needs of the person served. Individuals with concerns about trauma [recent or by history], mood dysregulation or instability, family conflict, stress or anxiety management, managing depression or grief, resolving behavioral issues or chronic relapse receive individualized interventions for rapid relief of chronic symptoms and support in planning and problem solving to Revive a foundation of Sanctuary in their lives. Services are offered to children, teens and adults
The focus of Reviving Sanctuary is offered in the name. Services support the specific therapeutic needs of the person served. Individuals with concerns about trauma [recent or by history], mood dysregulation or instability, family conflict, stress or anxiety management, managing depression or grief, resolving behavioral issues or chronic relapse receive individualized interventions for rapid relief of chronic symptoms and support in planning and problem solving to Revive a foundation of Sanctuary in their lives. Services are offered to children, teens and adults
(772) 247-6946 View (772) 247-6946
Photo of Alfredo Ramos, Mental Health Counselor in Stuart, FL
Alfredo Ramos
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Stuart, FL 34994
Positive Mindful Counseling has empathetic and dedicated clinicians, whose goal is to provide the most comfortable, evidence-based, and solution-focused counseling. We specialize in Individual and Group Therapy, always focusing on progress toward clear, measurable, and personalized goals. Services are provided both in our office and via telehealth. As Licensed Professionals, it is our purpose to help clients work through their distress to achieve positive results. We work well with clients seeking to alleviate their stress, relationship difficulties, and conflict while improving their mood and functioning. Tambien Hablamos Español.
Positive Mindful Counseling has empathetic and dedicated clinicians, whose goal is to provide the most comfortable, evidence-based, and solution-focused counseling. We specialize in Individual and Group Therapy, always focusing on progress toward clear, measurable, and personalized goals. Services are provided both in our office and via telehealth. As Licensed Professionals, it is our purpose to help clients work through their distress to achieve positive results. We work well with clients seeking to alleviate their stress, relationship difficulties, and conflict while improving their mood and functioning. Tambien Hablamos Español.
(786) 244-6420 View (786) 244-6420

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Anneli Riismaa, Psychologist in Stuart, FL
Anneli Riismaa
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hobe Sound, FL 33455
Physical, sexual and mental abuse as well trauma history, domestic violence, communication and relationship improvement, problems arising from pornography, and depression are a some topics that I have focused my practice on. Success in therapy is ultimately the result of the collaboration of you and I - the client and the therapist. There are no set number of sessions. You are a unique individual and you work at your own pace. I am committed to working with your needs and timetables.
Physical, sexual and mental abuse as well trauma history, domestic violence, communication and relationship improvement, problems arising from pornography, and depression are a some topics that I have focused my practice on. Success in therapy is ultimately the result of the collaboration of you and I - the client and the therapist. There are no set number of sessions. You are a unique individual and you work at your own pace. I am committed to working with your needs and timetables.
(224) 291-9171 View (224) 291-9171
Photo of Professional Counseling vbcp.LLC in Stuart, FL
Professional Counseling vbcp.LLC
Verified Verified
Port Saint Lucie, FL 34952
Professional Counseling and Services of Vero Beach Adults, Children and Adolescent Mental Health Counseling and Psychological Therapy Services. Individuals, Couples and Groups. Support and Educational Workshops. Marriage Retreats also available and Christian Counseling. We are a dynamic group of counselors in Vero Beach, Florida offering a variety of individualized counseling services addressing a wide range of issues. We provide services that span from counseling for anxiety and depression, grief counseling, relationship recovery, parenting support, couples counseling, to life coaching, career counseling, Anger Management and beyond.
Professional Counseling and Services of Vero Beach Adults, Children and Adolescent Mental Health Counseling and Psychological Therapy Services. Individuals, Couples and Groups. Support and Educational Workshops. Marriage Retreats also available and Christian Counseling. We are a dynamic group of counselors in Vero Beach, Florida offering a variety of individualized counseling services addressing a wide range of issues. We provide services that span from counseling for anxiety and depression, grief counseling, relationship recovery, parenting support, couples counseling, to life coaching, career counseling, Anger Management and beyond.
(772) 794-8765 View (772) 794-8765
Photo of Dr. Taylor Palmitier, Psy.D., Psychologist in Stuart, FL
Dr. Taylor Palmitier, Psy.D.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Port Saint Lucie, FL 34952  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to cope with everyday stressors? Are you feeling anxious, depressed or "stuck" in life? Do you feel disconnected from others? Do you want to improve the way you handle problems? If you're ready to embark on a journey towards personal growth and improved well-being, I invite you to reach out. Together, we can explore the challenges you face and develop strategies to help you lead a more fulfilling life.
Are you struggling to cope with everyday stressors? Are you feeling anxious, depressed or "stuck" in life? Do you feel disconnected from others? Do you want to improve the way you handle problems? If you're ready to embark on a journey towards personal growth and improved well-being, I invite you to reach out. Together, we can explore the challenges you face and develop strategies to help you lead a more fulfilling life.
(772) 742-4695 View (772) 742-4695
Photo of Sue Jobe, Counselor in Stuart, FL
Sue Jobe
Counselor, PhD, MA, MEd, NCSP, CCMHC
Verified Verified
Port Saint Lucie, FL 34984  (Online Only)
I use an eclectic holistic and personalized approach. Everyone is unique so the therapy must fit the person. A warm and friendly atmosphere with time to tell your story to an objective and understanding listener can set the pace for healing and learning. From anxiety to relationship issues we work together to find the best solutions and new strategies. We can be structured or spontaneous whichever is most comfortable for you. Learning new skills and gaining insights can dramatically improve your current state. If you are experiencing intense feelings and have difficulty functioning there is often immediate relief. Call now.
I use an eclectic holistic and personalized approach. Everyone is unique so the therapy must fit the person. A warm and friendly atmosphere with time to tell your story to an objective and understanding listener can set the pace for healing and learning. From anxiety to relationship issues we work together to find the best solutions and new strategies. We can be structured or spontaneous whichever is most comfortable for you. Learning new skills and gaining insights can dramatically improve your current state. If you are experiencing intense feelings and have difficulty functioning there is often immediate relief. Call now.
(561) 763-7099 View (561) 763-7099
Photo of Tiffany Moore, Counselor in Stuart, FL
Tiffany Moore
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Port Saint Lucie, FL 34952
The purpose of therapy is to take what you have learned and apply it outside. It is not always easy to make changes, and change can be scary, but once you put your words into action, the change can be beautiful. I have worked with people who struggle with substance use issues, depression, anxiety, and families. I have a passion for working with people in the BiPOC community. I want my clients to believe in themselves and what they can accomplish without needing external validation. My goal is for you to feel confident in your decision-making to process your needs/issues without relying on others.
The purpose of therapy is to take what you have learned and apply it outside. It is not always easy to make changes, and change can be scary, but once you put your words into action, the change can be beautiful. I have worked with people who struggle with substance use issues, depression, anxiety, and families. I have a passion for working with people in the BiPOC community. I want my clients to believe in themselves and what they can accomplish without needing external validation. My goal is for you to feel confident in your decision-making to process your needs/issues without relying on others.
(772) 934-9816 View (772) 934-9816
Photo of Rehema Alceus, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Stuart, FL
Rehema Alceus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Port Saint Lucie, FL 34952
I provide a supportive, caring place for individuals and families to make positive changes in their relationships, personal health, life transitions, and with past trauma. Whether you are struggling with transitions in life, marital issues, depression, anxiety, stress, grief, or difficulty with parenting; I offer strategies for real change. Clients have described me as knowledgeable, genuine, trustworthy, and someone who models living with integrity.
I provide a supportive, caring place for individuals and families to make positive changes in their relationships, personal health, life transitions, and with past trauma. Whether you are struggling with transitions in life, marital issues, depression, anxiety, stress, grief, or difficulty with parenting; I offer strategies for real change. Clients have described me as knowledgeable, genuine, trustworthy, and someone who models living with integrity.
(772) 208-6979 View (772) 208-6979

Online Therapists

Photo of Pamela L Baker, Psychologist in Stuart, FL
Pamela L Baker
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33431
, Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder), ADHD, grief, attachment issues, LGBTQIA related concerns, adjustment issues, low self-esteem, poor body image, etc.
Dr. Pamela Baker, Licensed Psychologist, earned her Bachelors Degree (B.A.) from the University of Miami with a major in Psychology and double minor in Sociology and French. She went on to earn her Masters Degree (M.S) and Doctoral Degree (Psy.D.) in Clinical Psychology at Nova Southeastern University. Dr. Baker currently works with a diverse population of individuals including children, adolescents, and adults. Dr. Baker’s main theoretical orientation is based on Carl Roger’s Humanistic Person-Centered counseling approach.
, Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder), ADHD, grief, attachment issues, LGBTQIA related concerns, adjustment issues, low self-esteem, poor body image, etc.
Dr. Pamela Baker, Licensed Psychologist, earned her Bachelors Degree (B.A.) from the University of Miami with a major in Psychology and double minor in Sociology and French. She went on to earn her Masters Degree (M.S) and Doctoral Degree (Psy.D.) in Clinical Psychology at Nova Southeastern University. Dr. Baker currently works with a diverse population of individuals including children, adolescents, and adults. Dr. Baker’s main theoretical orientation is based on Carl Roger’s Humanistic Person-Centered counseling approach.
(561) 510-7827 View (561) 510-7827
Photo of Dr. Michael A Farris, Psychologist in Stuart, FL
Dr. Michael A Farris
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wilton Manors, FL 33305
If you are visiting this website, you are probably in search of help from a concerned, empathic listener. You are undoubtedly concerned about your potential psychotherapist's training, expertise, and experience. In addition, you want to feel that a therapist can understand you and be helpful in your particular situation. After thirty-two years in practice, I have become a seasoned and skilled therapist, having developed expertise in the treatment of mood disorders (e.g., depression, bipolar disorder), adjustment and anxiety disorders, couples' and communication problems, and personality issues.
If you are visiting this website, you are probably in search of help from a concerned, empathic listener. You are undoubtedly concerned about your potential psychotherapist's training, expertise, and experience. In addition, you want to feel that a therapist can understand you and be helpful in your particular situation. After thirty-two years in practice, I have become a seasoned and skilled therapist, having developed expertise in the treatment of mood disorders (e.g., depression, bipolar disorder), adjustment and anxiety disorders, couples' and communication problems, and personality issues.
(954) 713-9717 View (954) 713-9717
Photo of Klaus E Laleau in Stuart, FL
Klaus E Laleau
MA
Verified Verified
North Miami, FL 33161
This includes depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar, ADHD, impulsive behavior.
My ideal client is battling with different variables. They may have had family issues, things aren’t going to well socially and they need help within their ideal life. They want to feel love and accepted. They also want to be successful and have a great life one day. Furthermore, they want it because of there harsh reality and always dreamed of what living a better life would be like.
This includes depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar, ADHD, impulsive behavior.
My ideal client is battling with different variables. They may have had family issues, things aren’t going to well socially and they need help within their ideal life. They want to feel love and accepted. They also want to be successful and have a great life one day. Furthermore, they want it because of there harsh reality and always dreamed of what living a better life would be like.
(305) 527-4440 View (305) 527-4440
Photo of Edan M Alcalay, Psychologist in Stuart, FL
Edan M Alcalay
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boca Raton, FL 33487
His speciality training provides him expertise in treating those who are victims of abuse/trauma, addiction, bipolar disorder and psychosis.
Dr. Alcalay received his Doctorate and Masters in Clinical Psychology at CAU in Miami, Florida. He conducted research on Teaching Responsible Behaviors to Adolescents, (TRBA), and Program for Alcohol Abusing Adolescent using Combined Therapy & Exercise (PACTE). He also has received advanced training from the Florida Psychoanalytic Center (FPC). In addition to providing traditional psychotherapy and psychological testing, Dr. Alcalay is an E.M.D.R. (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) therapist which is used in the treatment of PTSD. Additionally, Dr. Alcalay utilizes child-centered Play therapy for early behavioral issues & improving self-esteem. He is also a Qualified Supervisor.
His speciality training provides him expertise in treating those who are victims of abuse/trauma, addiction, bipolar disorder and psychosis.
Dr. Alcalay received his Doctorate and Masters in Clinical Psychology at CAU in Miami, Florida. He conducted research on Teaching Responsible Behaviors to Adolescents, (TRBA), and Program for Alcohol Abusing Adolescent using Combined Therapy & Exercise (PACTE). He also has received advanced training from the Florida Psychoanalytic Center (FPC). In addition to providing traditional psychotherapy and psychological testing, Dr. Alcalay is an E.M.D.R. (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) therapist which is used in the treatment of PTSD. Additionally, Dr. Alcalay utilizes child-centered Play therapy for early behavioral issues & improving self-esteem. He is also a Qualified Supervisor.
(561) 515-5170 View (561) 515-5170
Photo of Esin Pinarli, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Stuart, FL
Esin Pinarli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAP
Verified Verified
Boca Raton, FL 33431
I am a solution focused therapist specializing in Substance Dependence, co-occurring disorders, Bipolar 11, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, couples, ADD, work/school stressors, family systems issues, and trauma.
Anxiety, depression , addiction, relationship issues, codependency, loneliness or life circumstances interfering with your life by creating unmanageability, distress or disturbing your overall sense of well being? It takes great courage to take the initial step to enter therapy and take responsibility for change. As human beings we need to express ourselves to get our needs met. I provide a safe, non- judgmental, compassionate space to meet you where you are. Sometimes it can be hard for those closest to us to be objective, this is where I can help. I am here to hold space for your unique and personal experiences and pain.
I am a solution focused therapist specializing in Substance Dependence, co-occurring disorders, Bipolar 11, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, couples, ADD, work/school stressors, family systems issues, and trauma.
Anxiety, depression , addiction, relationship issues, codependency, loneliness or life circumstances interfering with your life by creating unmanageability, distress or disturbing your overall sense of well being? It takes great courage to take the initial step to enter therapy and take responsibility for change. As human beings we need to express ourselves to get our needs met. I provide a safe, non- judgmental, compassionate space to meet you where you are. Sometimes it can be hard for those closest to us to be objective, this is where I can help. I am here to hold space for your unique and personal experiences and pain.
(561) 220-1021 View (561) 220-1021
Photo of Michael Fish, Psychologist in Stuart, FL
Michael Fish
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Davie, FL 33324  (Online Only)
I have worked with a wide a variety of people ranging in age from 6 to 85 years old in both individual and relationship therapies. Although I try to be more solution focused and not breed long-term dependency, I have several clients who have been coming for a few years and act as a life coach to help them navigate their lives more effectively. Most of my clients are suffering from job-related stress, relationship issues, depression/bipolar, anxiety, child-rearing issues, School issues and several clients who are dual-diagnosis with substance abuse problems. Insurance plans and Medicare accepted..
I have worked with a wide a variety of people ranging in age from 6 to 85 years old in both individual and relationship therapies. Although I try to be more solution focused and not breed long-term dependency, I have several clients who have been coming for a few years and act as a life coach to help them navigate their lives more effectively. Most of my clients are suffering from job-related stress, relationship issues, depression/bipolar, anxiety, child-rearing issues, School issues and several clients who are dual-diagnosis with substance abuse problems. Insurance plans and Medicare accepted..
(954) 317-1891 View (954) 317-1891
Photo of Turning Point Mental Health Center, Psychologist in Stuart, FL
Turning Point Mental Health Center
Psychologist, LMHC
Verified Verified
Plantation, FL 33313
We specialize in: Child/adolescent issues, including ADHD, academic problems, peer relationship challenges and behavior management * Family systems intervention, including blended families, adoption, divorce/custody issues and parenting skills * Trauma Treatment * Depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, phobia * Personal growth & self-esteem * Behavioral Health Assessments * Psychological & Psychoeducational Evaluations * Parent Competency Evaluations.
Turning Point Mental Health Center provides psychotherapy and psychological testing. We have psychologists and mental health counselors who treat depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD and a variety of other psychological conditions. Our clinicians work with children and adults and offer morning, evening, and weekend appointments. We are committed to providing the highest quality of treatment available. Turning Point accepts numerous insurance including Medicaid and Medicare and our clinicians believe that anyone in need of therapy and psychological services should be able to access help that reflects the most current research and trends in the field.
We specialize in: Child/adolescent issues, including ADHD, academic problems, peer relationship challenges and behavior management * Family systems intervention, including blended families, adoption, divorce/custody issues and parenting skills * Trauma Treatment * Depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, phobia * Personal growth & self-esteem * Behavioral Health Assessments * Psychological & Psychoeducational Evaluations * Parent Competency Evaluations.
Turning Point Mental Health Center provides psychotherapy and psychological testing. We have psychologists and mental health counselors who treat depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD and a variety of other psychological conditions. Our clinicians work with children and adults and offer morning, evening, and weekend appointments. We are committed to providing the highest quality of treatment available. Turning Point accepts numerous insurance including Medicaid and Medicare and our clinicians believe that anyone in need of therapy and psychological services should be able to access help that reflects the most current research and trends in the field.
(561) 674-9301 View (561) 674-9301
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.