Mood disorders — including bipolar disorder and other conditions marked by significant shifts in mood, energy, and functioning — can be confusing and disruptive, but they are very treatable. At NP Psychiatric Services, we provide steady, evidence-based care for mood disorders in children, teens, adults, and older adults, both in person in Harrison, NY and through secure telehealth across New York State.
Understanding mood disorders
Mood disorders involve more than ordinary ups and downs. Common signs include:
- Distinct periods of unusually elevated, energized, or irritable mood
- Episodes of very low mood or loss of interest
- Significant changes in energy, sleep, or activity levels
- Racing thoughts, rapid speech, or impulsive decisions during high periods
- Difficulty maintaining consistent daily functioning
- Mood shifts that strain relationships, work, or school
Because mood disorders can resemble other conditions, an accurate evaluation is essential. A qualified clinician can help distinguish what you’re experiencing and identify the most appropriate care. If you are having thoughts of harming yourself, please call or text 988 (the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) or go to your nearest emergency room.
How we treat mood disorders
Care begins with a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, followed by an individualized plan built with you over time. This may include:
- Medication management — careful, closely monitored treatment with regular follow-up
- Therapy — individual support focused on stability, coping skills, and early warning signs
- Integrated, ongoing care — consistent follow-up and coordination with your other providers
Because mood disorders often benefit from consistency, we emphasize regular follow-up and long-term partnership. Care is available both in person in Harrison and by secure video anywhere in New York State, with evening and weekend availability. If you are experiencing ongoing low mood, you may also want to read about our depression treatment.
Insurance and getting started
We accept many major insurance plans, including Aetna, Cigna, Optum, and UnitedHealthcare. Coverage varies by plan, so please contact us to verify your benefits. Stability is possible with the right support — we’re here to help you find it.
Types of mood disorders we treat
Mood disorders cover a range of conditions, and the right approach depends on which pattern fits your experience. We evaluate and treat:
- Bipolar I disorder — periods of mania, often alternating with depression
- Bipolar II disorder — periods of hypomania alongside longer or more frequent depressive episodes
- Cyclothymia — milder but persistent mood fluctuation
- Major depressive disorder — episodes of low mood that interfere with daily functioning
- Persistent depressive disorder — long-lasting low mood, sometimes lasting years
- Mood changes connected to other conditions — including anxiety, ADHD, trauma, or medical causes
Only a qualified clinician can determine which, if any, of these applies. An accurate evaluation matters, because care for bipolar disorder often differs from care for depression alone.
Common questions about mood disorder treatment
How is bipolar disorder diagnosed?
There is no single test. An evaluation is built from a detailed conversation about your mood history, sleep, energy, and functioning over time — often including periods you may not have thought of as symptoms. With your permission, input from a family member can add helpful context.
Will I need medication for the rest of my life?
Not necessarily, and it is not something decided at a first visit. Some people take medication long term; others taper with clinical support when the time is right. The plan is revisited as your circumstances change.
Can therapy help with bipolar disorder?
Often, yes — typically alongside medication rather than instead of it. Therapy can help with recognizing early warning signs, protecting sleep and routine, and working through the practical effects of past episodes.
Do you see teenagers for mood concerns?
Yes. We care for children, teens, adults, and older adults, and parents or guardians are part of the conversation for younger patients.
How soon can I be seen?
Availability varies week to week. We offer in-person visits in Harrison and secure telehealth across New York State, including evening and weekend appointments. Contact us and we will let you know the soonest opening.
Serving Harrison and nearby Westchester communities
Our office at 600 Mamaroneck Avenue is a short drive for patients in West Harrison, Purchase, Rye, Rye Brook, Port Chester, Mamaroneck, Larchmont, White Plains, Scarsdale, and New Rochelle. Anyone located in New York State can also be seen by secure telehealth.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24 hours a day.
Related conditions we treat
Mood symptoms often appear alongside other conditions. We also offer depression treatment, anxiety treatment, and ADHD treatment. You can meet our providers, learn about our approach to care, or see all of our psychiatric services.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment.
