Photo of Lesa M Pascali, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Lesa M Pascali
Marriage & Family Therapist, Lesa Pascali, MFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95110  (Online Only)
My work can include Conservatorship, case management & working with families with problems with neurological imbalances & diseases such as schizophrenia, bipolar disease & other issues.
Welcome! I’m Lesa Pascali and I am committed to connecting with individuals, couples and families through individualized therapy and to helping them to discover/rediscover the harmony, meaning and wellness within their lives. After 23 years in law enforcement and 18 years doing therapy, I have dealt with a variety of situations. I’ve worked with individuals, couples and families, veterans, ex-offenders, children, teens and neurologically imbalanced individuals. I use a variety of therapies including RLT therapy, CBT & Solution Focused therapy and am a Certified Relational Life couples therapist.
My work can include Conservatorship, case management & working with families with problems with neurological imbalances & diseases such as schizophrenia, bipolar disease & other issues.
Welcome! I’m Lesa Pascali and I am committed to connecting with individuals, couples and families through individualized therapy and to helping them to discover/rediscover the harmony, meaning and wellness within their lives. After 23 years in law enforcement and 18 years doing therapy, I have dealt with a variety of situations. I’ve worked with individuals, couples and families, veterans, ex-offenders, children, teens and neurologically imbalanced individuals. I use a variety of therapies including RLT therapy, CBT & Solution Focused therapy and am a Certified Relational Life couples therapist.
(408) 715-3046 View (408) 715-3046
Photo of Bonnie Jones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Jose, CA
Bonnie Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95112  (Online Only)
Brynn graduated with her master's in social work in 2014. Her philosophy of care is grounded in compassion and curiosity, with a focus on being direct and honest. She uses a strengths-based approach, serving with empathy while also advocating for needed support. Brynn recognizes the courage and resiliency in every client, holding equal respect for their challenges, traumas, triumphs, and achievements. Her expertise is in trauma-informed cognitive behavioral therapy, specializing in diagnoses including Anxiety, Depression, OCD, and Bipolar Disorder. She enjoys working with moms, the LGBTQQ+ community, and young adults.
Brynn graduated with her master's in social work in 2014. Her philosophy of care is grounded in compassion and curiosity, with a focus on being direct and honest. She uses a strengths-based approach, serving with empathy while also advocating for needed support. Brynn recognizes the courage and resiliency in every client, holding equal respect for their challenges, traumas, triumphs, and achievements. Her expertise is in trauma-informed cognitive behavioral therapy, specializing in diagnoses including Anxiety, Depression, OCD, and Bipolar Disorder. She enjoys working with moms, the LGBTQQ+ community, and young adults.
(669) 303-8570 View (669) 303-8570
Photo of Melinda Carlisle Brackett, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Melinda Carlisle Brackett
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95126
Are you looking for therapy that is efficient, time-sensitive, and focused on practical strategies? I am a Behavioral Therapist whose approach includes short-term, evidence-based therapies for adults, couples, parents, adolescents and groups. My style is collaborative and includes skill-building in critical areas such as communication and relationship repair. I treat complex Mood Disorders, Anxiety, Panic, Bipolar, Depression, and Borderline Personality Disorder. I'm clear and direct- keeping our work on track so you meet your goals- while building in you the capacity for flexibility in order to have a peaceful and enjoyable life.
Are you looking for therapy that is efficient, time-sensitive, and focused on practical strategies? I am a Behavioral Therapist whose approach includes short-term, evidence-based therapies for adults, couples, parents, adolescents and groups. My style is collaborative and includes skill-building in critical areas such as communication and relationship repair. I treat complex Mood Disorders, Anxiety, Panic, Bipolar, Depression, and Borderline Personality Disorder. I'm clear and direct- keeping our work on track so you meet your goals- while building in you the capacity for flexibility in order to have a peaceful and enjoyable life.
(408) 641-6424 View (408) 641-6424
Photo of Melody D London, Psychologist in San Jose, CA
Melody D London
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95129  (Online Only)
She has specific training in personal growth, learning about emotions, understanding relationships, conflict resolution, intimacy problems, bipolar disorder, depression and substance overuse.
Dr. London has 20 years of experience providing services in a confidential space where you can safely explore your concerns. You can work though personal and professional transitions by learning new skills and improving relationships or, if desired, you can be led to heal from pain, conquer substance overuse or better understand and cope with bipolar disorder, depression or anxiety. Your journey will be personally crafted to meet your specific needs. Your goals, needs and perspectives will be an integral part of your treatment plan. Your therapy will be part of a collaborative process in which you will be an active participant.
She has specific training in personal growth, learning about emotions, understanding relationships, conflict resolution, intimacy problems, bipolar disorder, depression and substance overuse.
Dr. London has 20 years of experience providing services in a confidential space where you can safely explore your concerns. You can work though personal and professional transitions by learning new skills and improving relationships or, if desired, you can be led to heal from pain, conquer substance overuse or better understand and cope with bipolar disorder, depression or anxiety. Your journey will be personally crafted to meet your specific needs. Your goals, needs and perspectives will be an integral part of your treatment plan. Your therapy will be part of a collaborative process in which you will be an active participant.
(408) 214-8477 View (408) 214-8477
Photo of Holly Osment, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Holly Osment
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC, CST
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95126
Specialties include bipolar disorder, life transitions, and sexual issues and/or concerns.
Life is complex at all ages, but we know that...right? Yet knowing this does not necessarily help or give us direction. In my work, I try to help guide people through this murky life, examine choices and explore options, personal history, and experience. I have a deep respect for my clients, for their wisdom and their struggles. I provide an encouraging and non-judgmental space to look at each unique concern and situation. I often explore the role of meaning and choice in our lives, and how both powerfully (but often invisibly) affect how we live our days.
Specialties include bipolar disorder, life transitions, and sexual issues and/or concerns.
Life is complex at all ages, but we know that...right? Yet knowing this does not necessarily help or give us direction. In my work, I try to help guide people through this murky life, examine choices and explore options, personal history, and experience. I have a deep respect for my clients, for their wisdom and their struggles. I provide an encouraging and non-judgmental space to look at each unique concern and situation. I often explore the role of meaning and choice in our lives, and how both powerfully (but often invisibly) affect how we live our days.
(408) 550-5101 View (408) 550-5101
Photo of Molly A Walsh, Psychologist in San Jose, CA
Molly A Walsh
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95124  (Online Only)
I am a licensed psychologist and help individuals overcome problems related to bipolar disorder, depression, emotion dysregulation, anxiety, stress management, and relationship difficulties. I completed postdoctoral training at Stanford University focused on evidence-based approaches to therapy that are supported by research. I utilize these approaches in my work, incorporating techniques from cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), mindfulness, and motivational interviewing (MI) depending on client need.
I am a licensed psychologist and help individuals overcome problems related to bipolar disorder, depression, emotion dysregulation, anxiety, stress management, and relationship difficulties. I completed postdoctoral training at Stanford University focused on evidence-based approaches to therapy that are supported by research. I utilize these approaches in my work, incorporating techniques from cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), mindfulness, and motivational interviewing (MI) depending on client need.
(650) 830-3087 View (650) 830-3087
Photo of Yessica Islas McLenegan, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Yessica Islas McLenegan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95125  (Online Only)
My specialities include working with depression, anxiety, PTSD, social anxiety, bipolar disorder, adjustment disorder, and stress. I have experience working with adults and young adults. I provide Individual therapy.
My specialities include working with depression, anxiety, PTSD, social anxiety, bipolar disorder, adjustment disorder, and stress. I have experience working with adults and young adults. I provide Individual therapy.
(408) 763-5195 View (408) 763-5195
Photo of Melissa E Miller, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Melissa E Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95117  (Online Only)
Are you a worried parent of a teenager who's headed for trouble, or is already there? I'll help you get your kid back on track. Are you suffering the aftereffects of trauma (nightmares, flashbacks, intrusive thoughts, feeling disconnected from yourself and loved ones)? We'll find a way to heal your pain and make you whole again. Had enough of the bipolar roller-coaster? Want to break free of alcohol, substances, and other addictions, including eating disorders? Let's develop a plan for your recovery, so you have your life back.
Are you a worried parent of a teenager who's headed for trouble, or is already there? I'll help you get your kid back on track. Are you suffering the aftereffects of trauma (nightmares, flashbacks, intrusive thoughts, feeling disconnected from yourself and loved ones)? We'll find a way to heal your pain and make you whole again. Had enough of the bipolar roller-coaster? Want to break free of alcohol, substances, and other addictions, including eating disorders? Let's develop a plan for your recovery, so you have your life back.
(408) 676-9909 x408835 View (408) 676-9909 x408835
Photo of Tracy Lynn Fleming, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Tracy Lynn Fleming
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95126
I specialize in the treatment of depression, bipolar disorder, relational issues, trauma, adjustment disorders, domestic violence, divorce and child custody/visitation issues, and issues related to sexual orientation.
Many people come to therapy to resolve problems in relationships, manage stress related to work and family, to learn how to adapt to minor and major changes in life, or simply to enhance one’s sense of self. I believe that clients are the experts in their own lives, and that my job as a therapist is to guide clients in resolving their issues by providing a wide variety of cognitive behavioral and mindfulness tools and techniques that can easily be applied to daily life and that will alleviate suffering in a relatively short period of time.
I specialize in the treatment of depression, bipolar disorder, relational issues, trauma, adjustment disorders, domestic violence, divorce and child custody/visitation issues, and issues related to sexual orientation.
Many people come to therapy to resolve problems in relationships, manage stress related to work and family, to learn how to adapt to minor and major changes in life, or simply to enhance one’s sense of self. I believe that clients are the experts in their own lives, and that my job as a therapist is to guide clients in resolving their issues by providing a wide variety of cognitive behavioral and mindfulness tools and techniques that can easily be applied to daily life and that will alleviate suffering in a relatively short period of time.
(408) 628-1061 View (408) 628-1061
Photo of Christi Bell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Jose, CA
Christi Bell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95127
Hello! My name is Christi Bell. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I'm looking forward to working with you! I believe that the best therapy happens in partnership between the therapist and the client. My focus of clinical practice is working with teenagers and adults in the LGBTQIA2S+ community and survivors of trauma. I look forward to getting to know you better! I enjoy working with adolescents and adults up to age 50 who have been diagnosed with depression, anxiety, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, body dysmorphia, and PTSD. I specialize in working with members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community and survivors of trauma.
Hello! My name is Christi Bell. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I'm looking forward to working with you! I believe that the best therapy happens in partnership between the therapist and the client. My focus of clinical practice is working with teenagers and adults in the LGBTQIA2S+ community and survivors of trauma. I look forward to getting to know you better! I enjoy working with adolescents and adults up to age 50 who have been diagnosed with depression, anxiety, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, body dysmorphia, and PTSD. I specialize in working with members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community and survivors of trauma.
(650) 663-4273 View (650) 663-4273
Photo of Deborah Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Jose, CA
Deborah Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95112
Greetings, my name is Deborah Johnson, Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I work with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adolescents, adults, and couples. My areas of expertise are working with depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, trauma-informed and focused, and co-occurring disorders. My typical client population is comprised of mood disorders, including Major Depressive Disorder and Bipolar Disorder, a spectrum of Anxiety Disorders, including Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and Panic Disorder.
Greetings, my name is Deborah Johnson, Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I work with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adolescents, adults, and couples. My areas of expertise are working with depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, trauma-informed and focused, and co-occurring disorders. My typical client population is comprised of mood disorders, including Major Depressive Disorder and Bipolar Disorder, a spectrum of Anxiety Disorders, including Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and Panic Disorder.
(408) 715-1383 View (408) 715-1383
Photo of Nadia Nader, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Nadia Nader
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95138
Welcome to all of you. I am primarily trained in health psychology, working with those hoping to harmonize their body and mind benefiting from alternative and integrative initiatives. I am comfortable treating issues of dual realities: behaviors; bipolar disorder; death; hyphenated/intersectional identities; inter/multi-generational traumas; relationships (children/parents, couples, blended families, siblings); life transitions and personal journeys of assimilation, breakup, borders crossing, conversion, displacement, divorce, migration, sobriety and transitioning - all great examples of the incredible power of human transformation.
Welcome to all of you. I am primarily trained in health psychology, working with those hoping to harmonize their body and mind benefiting from alternative and integrative initiatives. I am comfortable treating issues of dual realities: behaviors; bipolar disorder; death; hyphenated/intersectional identities; inter/multi-generational traumas; relationships (children/parents, couples, blended families, siblings); life transitions and personal journeys of assimilation, breakup, borders crossing, conversion, displacement, divorce, migration, sobriety and transitioning - all great examples of the incredible power of human transformation.
(408) 617-9077 View (408) 617-9077
Photo of Cristina M. Collada, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Jose, CA
Cristina M. Collada
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95117
My approach is supportive, direct, and problem-focused. I utilize evidenced-based approaches including EMDR, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness-based techniques. With over 30 years of experience in the public and private sectors, I have extensive training and knowledge in the Assessment, Diagnosis and Treatment of a variety of mental health issues including Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, Addiction, Psychotic Disorders, Relationship Issues, Stress Management, Self-esteem Issues, Grief and Loss. I also have extensive experience responding to critical incidents including mass shootings and natural disasters.
My approach is supportive, direct, and problem-focused. I utilize evidenced-based approaches including EMDR, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness-based techniques. With over 30 years of experience in the public and private sectors, I have extensive training and knowledge in the Assessment, Diagnosis and Treatment of a variety of mental health issues including Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, Addiction, Psychotic Disorders, Relationship Issues, Stress Management, Self-esteem Issues, Grief and Loss. I also have extensive experience responding to critical incidents including mass shootings and natural disasters.
(408) 549-8980 View (408) 549-8980
Photo of Dulce Reyes, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Dulce Reyes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95124
Hi there, I'm Dulce Reyes, a Marriage & Family Therapist. I'm a bilingual therapist (English and Spanish) who has helped people with anxiety, depression, self esteem, bipolar disorder, borderline personality, relationship issues, life transitions, substance use, trauma, PTSD, and more. I use techniques from cognitive behavioral (CBT), dialectical behavioral (DBT), mindfulness-based, attachment-based, client centered, EMDR, and motivational interviewing modalities. Together, we will construct new, healthier, and more empowered narratives to find your inner voice, rewrite your story, heal, and discover your worth and value.
Hi there, I'm Dulce Reyes, a Marriage & Family Therapist. I'm a bilingual therapist (English and Spanish) who has helped people with anxiety, depression, self esteem, bipolar disorder, borderline personality, relationship issues, life transitions, substance use, trauma, PTSD, and more. I use techniques from cognitive behavioral (CBT), dialectical behavioral (DBT), mindfulness-based, attachment-based, client centered, EMDR, and motivational interviewing modalities. Together, we will construct new, healthier, and more empowered narratives to find your inner voice, rewrite your story, heal, and discover your worth and value.
(909) 310-1345 View (909) 310-1345
Photo of Kristine Villanueva, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Kristine Villanueva
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95120
My name is Kristine Villanueva, and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (MFT 91314) providing therapy to adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. I value a person-centered approach and provide a non-judgmental and supportive environment for growth and healing. I typically work with individuals with anxiety, depression, survivors of trauma, or individuals diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders.
My name is Kristine Villanueva, and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (MFT 91314) providing therapy to adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. I value a person-centered approach and provide a non-judgmental and supportive environment for growth and healing. I typically work with individuals with anxiety, depression, survivors of trauma, or individuals diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders.
(949) 806-5160 View (949) 806-5160
Photo of Dr. Mandy Zenda, Psychologist in San Jose, CA
Dr. Mandy Zenda
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95101  (Online Only)
Hello, and welcome to the private practice website of Dr. Mandy Zenda. I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in the treatment of sleep difficulties such as insomnia, anxiety and stress, and mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder. I practice evidence-based treatments supported by scientific research. These treatments are generally brief and provide sustained relief from distress. My approach to treatment is warm and collaborative; together we set goals and work to achieve them.
Hello, and welcome to the private practice website of Dr. Mandy Zenda. I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in the treatment of sleep difficulties such as insomnia, anxiety and stress, and mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder. I practice evidence-based treatments supported by scientific research. These treatments are generally brief and provide sustained relief from distress. My approach to treatment is warm and collaborative; together we set goals and work to achieve them.
(415) 366-3742 View (415) 366-3742
Photo of Brenda Barba, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Jose, CA
Brenda Barba
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95126
I am so glad you are taking the first step in this journey! Now Let me introduce myself. My name is Brenda Barba, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have been in the mental health profession for 5 years, but in the field for nearly 10. I enjoy what I do and constantly continue to educate myself to provide the best service to individuals who want to grow, heal, control their emotions, increase self-awareness and confidence, and learn coping skills to reach the best version of themselves. I have worked with a wide range of mental health diagnoses including but not limited to personality disorders, bipolar disorder, PTSD, anxiety.
I am so glad you are taking the first step in this journey! Now Let me introduce myself. My name is Brenda Barba, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have been in the mental health profession for 5 years, but in the field for nearly 10. I enjoy what I do and constantly continue to educate myself to provide the best service to individuals who want to grow, heal, control their emotions, increase self-awareness and confidence, and learn coping skills to reach the best version of themselves. I have worked with a wide range of mental health diagnoses including but not limited to personality disorders, bipolar disorder, PTSD, anxiety.
(510) 871-8689 View (510) 871-8689
Photo of Yashwanthi Mirji, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Yashwanthi Mirji
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95124
Hello, my name is Yashwanthi “Yash” Mirji. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a private practice based in Simi Valley, California. I provide individual, couples and family psychotherapy via Telehealth, In office and hybrid. My areas of specialty are grief/loss, trauma, and disorders such as ADD, Bi-polar, OCD, Depression and Anxiety. I specialize in treating unresolved trauma, complex grief, chronic stress, Attention Deficit Disorder, Bipolar, relationship issues and symptoms that overlap this like depression, anxiety.
Hello, my name is Yashwanthi “Yash” Mirji. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a private practice based in Simi Valley, California. I provide individual, couples and family psychotherapy via Telehealth, In office and hybrid. My areas of specialty are grief/loss, trauma, and disorders such as ADD, Bi-polar, OCD, Depression and Anxiety. I specialize in treating unresolved trauma, complex grief, chronic stress, Attention Deficit Disorder, Bipolar, relationship issues and symptoms that overlap this like depression, anxiety.
(559) 377-7143 View (559) 377-7143
Photo of Laura Salas Medina, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Jose, CA
Laura Salas Medina
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95102  (Online Only)
My focus is on working with a range of individuals experiencing anxiety & depression, bipolar disorder, trauma related issues, & familial/relationship problems.
Whether it be feeling overwhelmed, stressed, unheard, anxious all the time, or down on yourself, it can all be related to our past. Our past or our trauma experiences, like adverse childhood experiences(ACEs), neglect, rejection, familial trauma, and loss can cause us to feel strong emotions. My focus as an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist at Transcendence Psychological Services is allowing you to share your experience in order to gain new insight and ways of coping with past traumas. I offer a safe and inviting space for you to process and feel heard while guiding you towards healing.
My focus is on working with a range of individuals experiencing anxiety & depression, bipolar disorder, trauma related issues, & familial/relationship problems.
Whether it be feeling overwhelmed, stressed, unheard, anxious all the time, or down on yourself, it can all be related to our past. Our past or our trauma experiences, like adverse childhood experiences(ACEs), neglect, rejection, familial trauma, and loss can cause us to feel strong emotions. My focus as an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist at Transcendence Psychological Services is allowing you to share your experience in order to gain new insight and ways of coping with past traumas. I offer a safe and inviting space for you to process and feel heard while guiding you towards healing.
(559) 657-6237 View (559) 657-6237
Photo of Cherie Chavez, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Cherie Chavez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95148
My name is Cherie Chavez, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing integrative psychotherapy via telehealth statewide in California. In 2009 I began counseling adults coping with severe mental illness and complex trauma, to help provide symptom relief and improve their quality of life. Having a diagnosis can feel stigmatizing; reaching out for help so you don't go it alone can be empowering. I am very comfortable and most experienced in working with adults diagnosed with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, anxiety and depression.
My name is Cherie Chavez, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing integrative psychotherapy via telehealth statewide in California. In 2009 I began counseling adults coping with severe mental illness and complex trauma, to help provide symptom relief and improve their quality of life. Having a diagnosis can feel stigmatizing; reaching out for help so you don't go it alone can be empowering. I am very comfortable and most experienced in working with adults diagnosed with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, anxiety and depression.
(661) 724-8431 View (661) 724-8431
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.