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Mood Disorder Counseling and Therapy Treatment Center

A MISSION FOR MICHAEL

17 minutes read
Psychologist writing notes during a mental health therapy appointment.

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We accept most major insurance providers and can check your coverage levels for you.

If we are not an appropriate provider for care, we will assist in finding a care provider that can help. 

A Mission For Michael (AMFM). offers behavioral health services for those who are struggling with various mood or affective disorders. These conditions can lead to significant changes in your functioning. Located in Washington, California, and Virginia, our residential mental health programs utilize psychotherapy services, psychiatric care, and education to help you learn to cope with your mood instability.

Our treatment centers provide comprehensive treatment for various mental health conditions and dual diagnoses. We are going to focus on mood disorders that we commonly see within our facilities. You’ll learn more about the evidence-based and holistic treatment approaches used by our multidisciplinary teams at AMFM Mental Health Treatment Centers.

What is Mood Disorder?

Mood disorders are mental health conditions that can range in symptoms and severities. These conditions affect your emotions and can cause a consistently low mood and mood swings. Mood disorders are treatable and generally respond well to a combined approach of psychotherapy and the use of medications.

It is normal for us to experience a range of emotions, ranging from good ones to challenging ones. The difference between a normative emotional experience and a mood disorder is that mood disorder symptoms are consistent for two weeks or more. They can make it hard for you to concentrate and make it through your daily responsibilities. Depression and bipolar disorder are the most common mood disorders, though there are several more that individuals can experience.

Several factors can contribute to the development of a mood disorder. This includes genetics, the neurotransmitters in your brain, hormones, chronic stress, trauma, and some medical conditions. Individuals who have disruptions to the levels of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine can struggle with various mood symptoms. Individuals living with chronic illnesses may be at a higher risk for mood disorders, especially when they are taking particular medications to manage or treat their health condition. This is just a brief overview of the multiple risk factors for mood disorders.

Mood disorders primarily affect your mood and emotion regulation, whereas personality disorders involve acting, thinking, and behaving in ways that are outside the norm. Individuals with personality disorders believe their thoughts are normal and may see others as the problem. Some personality disorders may cause mood swings, but this isn’t the primary symptom.

Mood disorder symptoms can come and go and be triggered by specific situations. Personality disorders are long-lasting, generally beginning in early adulthood. Those living with mood disorders can often recognize that their emotional challenges are concerning. This is quite different from personality disorders, where individuals often struggle to see that their behaviors and thoughts are outside societal norms. Differences can also be seen in the way that these conditions are treated. Mood disorders treatment often combines psychotherapy and medication management services. Personality disorder treatment tends to be more long-term, focusing on helping individuals recognize and change their typical ways of thinking, behaving, and relating to others.

Mood disorders can affect everyone differently, making noticeable differences in the symptoms you experience. Mood disorder symptoms can affect your emotional, physical, and cognitive functioning. The duration of your symptoms is dependent on the disorder and situational factors contributing to it. Below are common signs and symptoms associated with mood disorders:

  • Persistent sadness or low mood: This can include feeling down, empty, or hopeless for an extended period.
  • Irritability or anger: You may experience frequent frustration or anger. This can be out of proportion and in response to minor situations.
  • Loss of interest in activities: You may not find your hobbies, social events, and other daily activities enjoyable anymore.
  • Poor concentrating: You may have a hard time focusing on tasks, making decisions, and staying engaged in conversations or other daily tasks.
  • Changes in appetite or weight: You may experience unintended weight loss or gain because of changes in your appetite. This can include eating more or less than usual.
  • Feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness: You may struggle to find hope or believe that things will get better. Feeling like a burden to others and having low self-esteem are common.
  • Mood swings (highs and lows): You may experience dramatic shifts in your mood, going from mania or hypomania to depressive symptoms. 

Mood disorder treatment programs take place in inpatient mental health treatment facilities and outpatient mental health clinics. Treatment programs can include various therapies and interventions based on your symptoms. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is the most commonly used approach for mood disorders and is often supplemented with medications like antidepressants and mood stabilizers.

The goal of treatment in a mental health treatment program is to help you learn new coping skills and find balance within the neurotransmitters in your brain. The intensity, duration, and frequency of your treatment are determined by the severity of your symptoms and the need for specialized treatments. A Mission For Michael can help you understand your mood disorder treatment options after a free and confidential assessment.

Mood Disorder Assessment and Testing

Proper assessments for mood disorders are a core component of effective treatment. Mood disorders respond to different therapies and approaches, which could be determined after an assessment. We encourage you to be careful of online assessments because they may be generic questions that are not reviewed by professionals.

A Mission For Michael (AMFM) Mental Health Treatment Centers provide confidential and free assessments for mood disorders. Our thorough evaluations focus on learning about your symptoms and mental health history so that we can develop a personalized treatment plan. To get started with your free assessment, we encourage you to call AMFM today!

Common Types of Mood Disorders

With differences in the symptoms and severity of mood disorders, an important component of psychiatric assessments is to correctly identify the mood disorder causing challenges. Different mood disorders respond to different treatments and interventions, which helps formulate your personalized treatment plan. Mood treatment centers provide treatment for multiple conditions, some of which include:

Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder is known for causing irritability and angry outbursts. These outbursts tend to be out of proportion to the situation. Mood swings caused by DMDD are mainly centered around anger, which is different from other mood disorders. These symptoms are present in more than one setting and can be diagnosed in children between six to 18 years.

Adjustment disorders can occur within three months of a major life event or change, such as a cross-country move. Symptoms of an adjustment disorder with depressed mood can include sadness, hopelessness, low mood, difficulty finding pleasure, crying frequently, and fatigue. These symptoms tend to resolve within six months after the initial event is resolved.

Symptoms for adjustment disorder with anxiety and depressed mood begin within three months of a major life event, lasting for approximately six months. Symptoms you may experience include continuous worrying or nervousness, restlessness, sadness, hopelessness, poor concentration, headaches, and stomach aches.

Unspecified mood disorder is a clinical diagnosis for individuals whose mood symptoms do not align with diagnostic criteria. You may have traits of bipolar disorder, clinical depression, or anxiety that cause a clinically significant impact on your life. You may experience mood swings, irritability, and struggle with emotion regulation.

A mood disorder due to a medical condition coincides with the progression, or initial onset, of a medical condition. You may experience depressive symptoms caused by health conditions like thyroid disease, stroke, and multiple sclerosis. Changes in sleep, appetite, fatigue, and irritability are common. Many find relief from their symptoms as their health condition improves or is responding to treatments.

There are three different bipolar disorders known for causing intense mood swings. This can include mania, hypomania, and depressive episodes. Bipolar I disorder includes mania symptoms and may include depressive episodes. Bipolar II includes depressive and hypomanic episodes. Cyclothymic disorder includes rotating symptoms of hypomania and depressive episodes without meeting the full criteria.

Major depressive disorder is known for causing persistent low mood, hopelessness, and emptiness. You may experience fatigue, poor concentration, and struggle to find joy in your life. Some think about death frequently and experience suicidal ideation. Dysthymia, or persistent depressive disorder, is a chronic illness that causes depressive symptoms for a minimum of two years and negatively impacts your functioning.

Bipolar-type schizoaffective disorder generally includes a combination of psychotic symptoms and mood disorder symptoms like depressive and manic episodes. There may be brief periods of time without mood symptoms, though you may still experience hallucinations and delusions during these periods.

Seasonal affective disorder occurs at certain times of the year, typically during the fall and winter months when there’s less sunlight. If you find yourself feeling unusually tired, down, or irritable as the days get shorter, it might not just be the “winter blues”—SAD is a real condition that can affect your mood, energy, and overall wellbeing.

Mood Disorder Therapy and Treatment Centers Near Me

A Mission For Michael provides mood disorder treatment that is tailored to each individual to ensure that you receive whole-person care. We utilize evidence-based approaches and offer multiple holistic treatments to enhance your treatment experience. We encourage you to call (866) 478-4383 to explore programming available in our psychiatric facilities.

Common Treatment Methods for Mood Disorders

Treatment programs available in mental health clinics can address mood disorders in varying severities by modifying their intensity, frequency, and duration. Each of these treatment options includes the use of evidence-based treatments like CBT, DBT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Treatment programs used to treat varying mood disorders include:

PHP and Evening Treatment for Mood Disorder

Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHPs), also known as day programs, provide you with structured therapeutic exercises while allowing you to return home in the evenings. These are the most intensive types of outpatient therapy and generally run five days each week for most of the day. Treatment can include psychotherapy, medication management services, and life skills development.

Outpatient and IOP for Mood Disorder

Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs) are a step down from PHP regarding intensity and frequency. You can expect to be in treatment for several hours, multiple days each week. Routine outpatient treatment is a flexible option that can include individual therapy, group therapy, psychoeducation, medication management services, or a combination of more than one.

Inpatient Residential Mood Disorder Treatment

Residential mental health treatment programs provide you with 24/7 support and guidance, even outside traditional treatment hours. These programs may be equipped to provide crisis stabilization services for those experiencing severe depressive symptoms, a manic episode, and active psychotic symptoms. Program duration is dependent on your symptoms.

Medication-Assisted Mood Disorder Treatment

Medication-assisted treatments are commonly used to treat mood symptoms after a comprehensive psychiatric assessment with a prescribing healthcare professional. There are several classes of antidepressants, including Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs), Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs), Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs), and Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs). Other medications that can be used include mood stabilizers, atypical antipsychotics, benzodiazepines, serotonin modulators, and Norepinephrine-Dopamine Reuptake Inhibitors (NDRIs).

Common Evidence-Based Therapies for Mood Disorders

Treatment for mood disorders generally includes the use of evidence-based approaches because their effectiveness has been supported by research. Treatment for mood disorders is individualized because each therapeutic approach targets different symptoms of your mood disorder. While this is not an exhaustive list, some of the commonly used therapeutic approaches include:

The key focus of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is to recognize and challenge unhealthy thoughts that contribute to your mood disorder symptoms. This can help you engage in new behaviors that can reduce the level of distress you experience. CBT is a goal-orientated approach and is easily adapted to individual needs.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) was initially developed for borderline personality disorder. It can be used to treat mood disorders by helping you learn new emotion regulation skills, distress tolerance skills, and how to resolve conflicts. These skills can help improve your mood when used effectively.

Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) is used to address any interpersonal concerns that are affecting your mood. This is more commonly used with those who are struggling with depressive symptoms. You can elevate your communication skills, work through unresolved conflicts, and adjust to major life transitions, which can help decrease mood symptoms.

Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) combines the principles of cognitive therapy with mindfulness practices to help those struggling with depression. You’ll learn to observe your thoughts without passing judgment. Treatment can also help you cope with rumination and negative thinking that commonly occur with depression.

Behavioral Activation (BA) focuses on having you engage in activities that you previously enjoyed. This is meant to address a specific symptom of depression, specifically a decreased interest in hobbies and enjoyable activities. This treatment intends to break a cycle of inactivity and provide positive reinforcement.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) can help you decrease avoidance behaviors and address difficult emotions. This approach combines mindfulness practices with behavioral strategies while having a focus on clarifying your core values. This insight helps gear your behaviors toward values that bring new meaning into your life.

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    Find out about our free assessments and admissions process

    We accept most major insurance providers and can check your coverage levels for you.

    If we are not an appropriate provider for care, we will assist in finding a care provider that can help. 

    Does Health Insurance Cover Mood Disorder Therapy and Counseling?

    Most health insurance providers offer treatment for mood disorder therapy and counseling. Insurance benefits can include psychiatric hospital coverage, residential mental health treatment, and outpatient treatment. Your coverage is dependent on your insurance carrier and the details of your insurance plan. Insurance carriers provide customizable options for healthcare plans to meet the diverse needs of policyholders.

    Variations in your plan may be seen in the coverage rates, deductibles, copayments, and required authorizations. Your insurance plan may also include prescription drug coverage, which can be used towards medication management treatment for mood disorder symptoms. Contact AMFM to confirm your insurance coverage details today.

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    How Much Does Mood Disorder Treatment Cost Without Insurance?

    The cost of treatment for mood disorders can vary based on the care that you receive. Generally, the cost of residential mental health treatment falls between $500 to $2,000 per day. Outpatient therapy can cost between $100 to $200 per session. Psychiatric care can increase your treatment expenses.

    Specialized treatments, including certain therapies and dual diagnosis care, can also increase treatment costs. We encourage you to call AMFM at (866) 478-4383 for a personalized estimate of mood disorder treatment programs and to review how to pay for treatment.

    The admission process for mood disorder treatment at A Mission For Michael Mental Health Treatment Center follows similar components to other inpatient mental health treatment centers. We’ve crafted our process to be precise and simple, allowing you to access the care you need easily. While there may be small differences between our facilities, our admission process follows these general steps:

    • Initial Contact: The process starts when you reach out for help. You can do this by completing our contact form or by dialing (866) 478-4383.
    • Assessment and Evaluation: The next step is an assessment that delves into your mood disorder symptoms and mental health history. This provides us the information needed to determine if our treatment is the right fit for you.
    • Insurance Verification and Coverage: Our admission counselors will verify your insurance coverage to learn more about the scope of your coverage and how it applies to our treatment program. We will ask about the limitations, exclusions, required authorizations for your plan, and your expected out-of-pocket expenses for mood disorder treatment.
    • Treatment Plan Development: We will develop your personalized treatment plan based on the information we learned during your assessment.
    • Admissions Coordination: Once we have the necessary paperwork completed, we will then provide you with a date and time for admission. In some cases, we’re able to help you plan your travel.
    • Orientation and Program Introduction: When you arrive at the treatment facility, you will meet our staff and clinical team and receive a tour of our treatment facility. You’ll be given your treatment schedule.
    • Active Participation in Treatment: You will then begin attending treatment as scheduled. This can include group, individual, and educational sessions for mood disorders.
    • Progress Monitoring and Adjustments: Throughout your time in an AMFM treatment center, our staff will be monitoring your symptoms to ensure that your current treatment track is effective. We will make adjustments if needed.

    Mood disorders respond well to comprehensive care provided in the correct treatment environment. It can be challenging to determine which treatment program you need and find an appropriate mental health clinic. We encourage you to try using some, if not all, of the following steps to find mood disorder behavioral health services:

    • Use Search Engines: Using sites like Bing and Google, enter specific keywords to generate a list of local treatment centers. Try using “Mood disorder mental wellness center near me” or “Mental health treatment programs for mood disorders in [your location].”
    • Read Online Testimonials: Read reviews written by previous clients to gain insight into the care that they received. This can include notes on the quality of care provided, the comfort level of the facility, the professionalism of staff, and the effectiveness of treatments used.
    • Check If They Accept Insurance: If you’re planning to use insurance, visit the counseling center’s website to inquire about their insurance policy and payment options. You can also speak with your insurance provider and ask for a list of in-network treatment providers.
    • Confirm Private Pay Options: Those who are not using insurance are encouraged to ask about payment plan options, sliding scale fees, and payment plans. These options can make your payments more manageable.
    • Verify Accreditation: Look into your treatment center’s is accredited by recognition with organizations like The Joint Commission or CARF (Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities). Accreditation lets you know that they provide effective, high-quality care while respecting the ethical and legal bounds of mental health counseling.
    • Check for Evidence-Based Treatments: Check with the treatment facility about their use of evidence-based practices within their mood disorder treatment programs. This can include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and medication management.
    • Visit the Location: In some cases, you may be able to schedule an in-person visit or a virtual tour of the treatment center. This allows you to make your own judgments about their treatment environment and determine if you’d feel comfortable there.

    Check if your health insurance will cover the cost of mental health treatment.