Bipolar Disorder Counselling in Queens Park, NSW

Photo of Steven Segal, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Steven Segal
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Serves Area
We live in an "age of anxiety." It is not only me or you that experiences mental health challenges. Taking care of our mental health challenges is crucial to our well being, our relationships, and for living a worthwhile life. My approach to therapy is guided by the words of Marianne Williamson: "Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be?"
We live in an "age of anxiety." It is not only me or you that experiences mental health challenges. Taking care of our mental health challenges is crucial to our well being, our relationships, and for living a worthwhile life. My approach to therapy is guided by the words of Marianne Williamson: "Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be?"
(02) 9100 0103 View (02) 9100 0103
Photo of Dr Marcelo Rodriguez, Psychologist, PhD, MAPS
Dr Marcelo Rodriguez
Psychologist, PhD, MAPS
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Individuals who are navigating a complex modern world and are experiencing psychological disorders need care. Psychological treatment that is evidence-based and works can make a difference to people’s lives.
Individuals who are navigating a complex modern world and are experiencing psychological disorders need care. Psychological treatment that is evidence-based and works can make a difference to people’s lives.
(02) 9100 0834 View (02) 9100 0834

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr Nathan Fleisch, Psychiatrist, Specialist Psychiatrist
Dr Nathan Fleisch
Psychiatrist, Specialist Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Newtown, NSW 2042
He provides comprehensive psychiatric assessment and treatment services, primarily for depression, bipolar disorders, anxiety, personality disorders, post-traumatic stress disorders, psychotic disorders, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorders (ADHD).
Pharmacotherapy and Supportive Psychotherapy
He provides comprehensive psychiatric assessment and treatment services, primarily for depression, bipolar disorders, anxiety, personality disorders, post-traumatic stress disorders, psychotic disorders, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorders (ADHD).
Pharmacotherapy and Supportive Psychotherapy
(02) 8964 8090 View (02) 8964 8090
Photo of Conor Ragg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Conor Ragg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Darlington, NSW 2008
I have experience working with people with a lived experience of trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.
My name is Conor (he/him), I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with eight years experience working in the mental health field with a wide range of individuals and presentations. I also have experience working in psychosocial disability, physical disability, and child protection. I am a registered Allied Health Medicare Provider and can provide Medicare rebates to make support more accessible.
I have experience working with people with a lived experience of trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.
My name is Conor (he/him), I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with eight years experience working in the mental health field with a wide range of individuals and presentations. I also have experience working in psychosocial disability, physical disability, and child protection. I am a registered Allied Health Medicare Provider and can provide Medicare rebates to make support more accessible.
0466 952 724 View 0466 952 724
Photo of Jo Leidreiter, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Jo Leidreiter
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Darlinghurst, NSW 2010
Are you seeking help for Bipolar Disorder?
I am committed to helping individuals manage Bipolar Disorder and Depression through an integrative, evidence-based therapies practice including CBT, DBT, and Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT). I am passionate about supporting clients to achieve emotional balance, improving their mood regulation, and enhancing their quality of life.
Are you seeking help for Bipolar Disorder?
I am committed to helping individuals manage Bipolar Disorder and Depression through an integrative, evidence-based therapies practice including CBT, DBT, and Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT). I am passionate about supporting clients to achieve emotional balance, improving their mood regulation, and enhancing their quality of life.
(02) 8000 1364 View (02) 8000 1364
Photo of Nila Abbasyan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Nila Abbasyan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I can support clients navigating a wide range of mental health challenges, including Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Acute Stress Disorder, and Complex PTSD.
My primary focus is to provide compassionate, professional support to individuals facing a wide range of mental health challenges. I bring a combination of evidence-based therapeutic approaches, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and trauma-informed care, to address the unique needs of each client.
I can support clients navigating a wide range of mental health challenges, including Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Acute Stress Disorder, and Complex PTSD.
My primary focus is to provide compassionate, professional support to individuals facing a wide range of mental health challenges. I bring a combination of evidence-based therapeutic approaches, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and trauma-informed care, to address the unique needs of each client.
(02) 7804 4117 View (02) 7804 4117
Photo of Julia Martz, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Julia Martz
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Julia’s primary interests include supporting people experiencing trauma, anxiety disorders (including OCD), mood disorders (including bipolar), individual relationship support and difficulties related to identity.
Julia operates via Telehealth only. Julia is a qualified Clinical Psychologist providing online therapy. She has many years of experience delivering evidence-based therapy to adults with various presenting difficulties. Julia believes in the strength of the therapeutic relationship and collaboration between client and therapist to create tailored support for each client. She brings a personable and authentic approach to supporting clients and aims to help clients make meaningful, long-lasting changes.
Julia’s primary interests include supporting people experiencing trauma, anxiety disorders (including OCD), mood disorders (including bipolar), individual relationship support and difficulties related to identity.
Julia operates via Telehealth only. Julia is a qualified Clinical Psychologist providing online therapy. She has many years of experience delivering evidence-based therapy to adults with various presenting difficulties. Julia believes in the strength of the therapeutic relationship and collaboration between client and therapist to create tailored support for each client. She brings a personable and authentic approach to supporting clients and aims to help clients make meaningful, long-lasting changes.
(03) 7003 2371 View (03) 7003 2371
Photo of Suzanne Klotz - People Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Suzanne Klotz - People Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Get help by seeing Suzanne, who has extensive experience with: Anxiety, Panic Attacks & Anxiety Stress, Phobias (Fear of specific things / situations), Depression, Grief & Loss, Bereavement, Relationship Issues, Couples Counselling, Marriage Counselling, Premarital Counselling, Workplace Stress, Alcohol Abuse & Dependency, PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), Trauma, Adjustment Disorder, ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) & ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder), Adoption Issues, Anger Management, Bipolar Disorder (BD), Career Guidance, Chronic Pain, Codependency Disorder & Divorce Counselling
Suzanne has a warm, approachable and empathic approach. In therapy, she aims to create a space where a person feels understood, accepted and supported as they make the changes that they want to in life. Suzanne is an experienced registered psychologist, with over 17 years experience in counselling and clinical environments.
Get help by seeing Suzanne, who has extensive experience with: Anxiety, Panic Attacks & Anxiety Stress, Phobias (Fear of specific things / situations), Depression, Grief & Loss, Bereavement, Relationship Issues, Couples Counselling, Marriage Counselling, Premarital Counselling, Workplace Stress, Alcohol Abuse & Dependency, PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), Trauma, Adjustment Disorder, ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) & ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder), Adoption Issues, Anger Management, Bipolar Disorder (BD), Career Guidance, Chronic Pain, Codependency Disorder & Divorce Counselling
Suzanne has a warm, approachable and empathic approach. In therapy, she aims to create a space where a person feels understood, accepted and supported as they make the changes that they want to in life. Suzanne is an experienced registered psychologist, with over 17 years experience in counselling and clinical environments.
(03) 7003 2585 View (03) 7003 2585
Photo of Ahmet Sait Yildirim, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Ahmet Sait Yildirim
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Gledswood Hills, NSW 2557
I have rich experience working with a wide variety of mental health presentations including depression, anxiety, trauma, obsessive-compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, oppositional behaviour, and more.
I am experienced in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy, attachment-based therapies and more.
I have rich experience working with a wide variety of mental health presentations including depression, anxiety, trauma, obsessive-compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, oppositional behaviour, and more.
I am experienced in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy, attachment-based therapies and more.
(02) 4210 5183 View (02) 4210 5183
Photo of Michelle Pal, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA Endorsed
Michelle Pal
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA Endorsed
Verified Verified
Online Only
I treat clinical issues such as anxiety, depression, and bipolar.
My therapeutic style is direct, authentic, engaging, and down-to-earth. Most of the therapy I do is quite practical, meaning that I will always give strategies and practice exercises for you to complete to help you make meaningful change.
I treat clinical issues such as anxiety, depression, and bipolar.
My therapeutic style is direct, authentic, engaging, and down-to-earth. Most of the therapy I do is quite practical, meaning that I will always give strategies and practice exercises for you to complete to help you make meaningful change.
(02) 8294 8062 View (02) 8294 8062
Photo of Andrea Michelle Schilder, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Andrea Michelle Schilder
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Camperdown, NSW 2050
Clinical Psychologist working in Camperdown with 20 years experience treating a wide range of mental health problems including anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, personality disorders, adjustment disorder and psychotic illness.
Clinical Psychology specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions using scientifically proven techniques. My approach is warm, empathic and collaborative. My therapeutic modalities include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, EMDR and Schema Therapy.
Clinical Psychologist working in Camperdown with 20 years experience treating a wide range of mental health problems including anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, personality disorders, adjustment disorder and psychotic illness.
Clinical Psychology specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions using scientifically proven techniques. My approach is warm, empathic and collaborative. My therapeutic modalities include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, EMDR and Schema Therapy.
(02) 9159 6581 View (02) 9159 6581
Photo of Paula Garrido, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Paula Garrido
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
-Experienced in: Autism, Aspergers, ADHD, trauma, PTSD, Complex PTSD (complex and prolonged Traumatic experiences), Anxiety, OCD, Depression, Psychosis, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective, Excessive worry (GAD) Bipolar Disorder, Delusional Disorder, Intellectual Disability, Acquired Brain Injury (ABI), Agoraphobia, Specific Phobias, social anxiety disorder.
Experience in: - Neurodiversity-affirming therapy for Autism, ADHD - Schizophrenia and relapse prevention - Depression and anxiety - LGBT+ support, including identity exploration - Relationship concerns, including non-conventional relationships - Complex traumatic childhood and adult experiences including CSA, SA, dissociation & grief - Work challenges
-Experienced in: Autism, Aspergers, ADHD, trauma, PTSD, Complex PTSD (complex and prolonged Traumatic experiences), Anxiety, OCD, Depression, Psychosis, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective, Excessive worry (GAD) Bipolar Disorder, Delusional Disorder, Intellectual Disability, Acquired Brain Injury (ABI), Agoraphobia, Specific Phobias, social anxiety disorder.
Experience in: - Neurodiversity-affirming therapy for Autism, ADHD - Schizophrenia and relapse prevention - Depression and anxiety - LGBT+ support, including identity exploration - Relationship concerns, including non-conventional relationships - Complex traumatic childhood and adult experiences including CSA, SA, dissociation & grief - Work challenges
View
Photo of Danka Fiedor, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Danka Fiedor
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Bondi Junction, NSW 2022
Each service is tailored using a strength-based approach to treatment to help you manage any issues including stress, depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD/cPTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Eating Disorders, OCD, Adult ADHD, phobias and performance anxiety, self-esteem and life’s challenges.
Danka is EMDR Accredited Practitioner working with individuals and couples, attachment Informed EMDR, IFS informed, Gottman’s Therapy Method, Workers Compensation & CTP (SIRA), Eating Disorder Clinician, Resource Therapist (Advanced Ego State Therapy).
Each service is tailored using a strength-based approach to treatment to help you manage any issues including stress, depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD/cPTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Eating Disorders, OCD, Adult ADHD, phobias and performance anxiety, self-esteem and life’s challenges.
Danka is EMDR Accredited Practitioner working with individuals and couples, attachment Informed EMDR, IFS informed, Gottman’s Therapy Method, Workers Compensation & CTP (SIRA), Eating Disorder Clinician, Resource Therapist (Advanced Ego State Therapy).
(02) 9100 0959 View (02) 9100 0959
Photo of Robyn Thomas, MA
Robyn Thomas
MA
Verified Verified
Miranda, NSW 2228
She specializes in assessment and therapy for anxiety and panic, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), depression, stress, burnout, bipolar disorder, grief and loss, adapting to change, rebuilding self after a breakup, insomnia, chronic pain, migraines, and chronic fatigue.
Robyn is proficient in a variety of evidence-based therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), sensory modulation, and integrates social prescription, mindfulness, and technology such as bio/neurofeedback or VR to make therapy interesting and fun.
She specializes in assessment and therapy for anxiety and panic, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), depression, stress, burnout, bipolar disorder, grief and loss, adapting to change, rebuilding self after a breakup, insomnia, chronic pain, migraines, and chronic fatigue.
Robyn is proficient in a variety of evidence-based therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), sensory modulation, and integrates social prescription, mindfulness, and technology such as bio/neurofeedback or VR to make therapy interesting and fun.
(02) 9538 7564 View (02) 9538 7564
Photo of Emily Maher, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Emily Maher
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Marrickville, NSW 2204
I am skilled in the treatment of a wide range of mental health issues including anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, depression, bipolar and personality disorders.
I work with older adolescents (16+), adults and couples on their mental health, emotional and relationship issues. My particular interest is helping people improve their self-esteem, motivation, work stress and relationship issues. I support my clients to overcome life challenges and frame those challenges in terms of schema or negative self-belief barriers which can be overcome. I also enjoy working with couples on changing their relationship patterns and resolving their differences. I am skilled with culturally sensitive issues, coming from a multicultural perspective myself and being experienced working with migrants.
I am skilled in the treatment of a wide range of mental health issues including anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, depression, bipolar and personality disorders.
I work with older adolescents (16+), adults and couples on their mental health, emotional and relationship issues. My particular interest is helping people improve their self-esteem, motivation, work stress and relationship issues. I support my clients to overcome life challenges and frame those challenges in terms of schema or negative self-belief barriers which can be overcome. I also enjoy working with couples on changing their relationship patterns and resolving their differences. I am skilled with culturally sensitive issues, coming from a multicultural perspective myself and being experienced working with migrants.
(02) 9100 0138 View (02) 9100 0138
Photo of Tobi Harris - One Seed Sydney , Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
One Seed Sydney
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Woollahra, NSW 2025
Tobi Harris is a mindful and positive psychotherapist. She is dedicated to supporting clients to navigate their own journey and she offers the skills when necessary to help. She works with clients that present with issues and diagnosis such as Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Addiction Issues, Anxiety, Depression, Grief and Loss, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Insomnia, Relationship Issues, Eating Disorders, Emotional Dysregulation and Sexuality and Identity. She uses several evidence -based modalities to work with her clients.
Tobi Harris is a mindful and positive psychotherapist. She is dedicated to supporting clients to navigate their own journey and she offers the skills when necessary to help. She works with clients that present with issues and diagnosis such as Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Addiction Issues, Anxiety, Depression, Grief and Loss, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Insomnia, Relationship Issues, Eating Disorders, Emotional Dysregulation and Sexuality and Identity. She uses several evidence -based modalities to work with her clients.
(02) 9100 0045 View (02) 9100 0045
Photo of Alex Whyburn, Psychologist, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Alex Whyburn
Psychologist, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Chatswood, NSW 2067
I have over 18 years experience working with adults and adolescents with a wide range of clinical presentations including anxiety and depression, grief and loss, bipolar, eating disorders, trauma and personality disorders.
I have a warm style, and engage each client from a non-judgemental and strengths based perspective. I work from an attachment approach, and am skilled in a range of treatment modalities including mindfulness and cognitive behaviour therapy, Interpersonal Psychotherapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
I have over 18 years experience working with adults and adolescents with a wide range of clinical presentations including anxiety and depression, grief and loss, bipolar, eating disorders, trauma and personality disorders.
I have a warm style, and engage each client from a non-judgemental and strengths based perspective. I work from an attachment approach, and am skilled in a range of treatment modalities including mindfulness and cognitive behaviour therapy, Interpersonal Psychotherapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
(02) 9100 0815 View (02) 9100 0815
Photo of Nick Bowditch, Counsellor
Nick Bowditch
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Serves Area
My sessions also include free psychometric testing for Adult ADHD, Adverse Childhood Events, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Problematic Alcohol Intake, PTSD, Self-Esteem Issues, and Social Anxiety.
I specialise in helping clients on the Central Coast who are navigating unresolved childhood trauma, addiction recovery, and self-worth challenges. My ideal clients are seeking a safe, non-judgmental space to heal and rebuild their self-esteem. Whether you’re in early recovery or ready to address past pain, I am here to support your journey. I work from my Terrigal clinic by the beach and my Gosford clinic in the CBD, providing convenient access for clients across Terrigal, Gosford, and surrounding areas.
My sessions also include free psychometric testing for Adult ADHD, Adverse Childhood Events, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Problematic Alcohol Intake, PTSD, Self-Esteem Issues, and Social Anxiety.
I specialise in helping clients on the Central Coast who are navigating unresolved childhood trauma, addiction recovery, and self-worth challenges. My ideal clients are seeking a safe, non-judgmental space to heal and rebuild their self-esteem. Whether you’re in early recovery or ready to address past pain, I am here to support your journey. I work from my Terrigal clinic by the beach and my Gosford clinic in the CBD, providing convenient access for clients across Terrigal, Gosford, and surrounding areas.
(02) 4307 5133 View (02) 4307 5133
Photo of Dr Priyanka Komandur, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Priyanka Komandur
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I work with clients presenting with various psychological challenges negatively impacting their mental health. This includes: challenges with their emotions or general mood, such as stress, overwhelm, low mood, anxiety, depression; difficulty connecting with their emotions; past or recent trauma; dealing with grief; difficulty adjusting to change, dealing with uncertainty; challenges with their partner, family, friends, or work colleagues, and more. Clients generally want to understand what they're going through, and build coping tools to overcome their challenges so that they can feel in control of themselves and their lives again.
I work with clients presenting with various psychological challenges negatively impacting their mental health. This includes: challenges with their emotions or general mood, such as stress, overwhelm, low mood, anxiety, depression; difficulty connecting with their emotions; past or recent trauma; dealing with grief; difficulty adjusting to change, dealing with uncertainty; challenges with their partner, family, friends, or work colleagues, and more. Clients generally want to understand what they're going through, and build coping tools to overcome their challenges so that they can feel in control of themselves and their lives again.
(08) 6361 3211 View (08) 6361 3211
Photo of Nese Sozen - Nese Sozen Psychology, Psychologist, MAPS
Nese Sozen Psychology
Psychologist, MAPS
Verified Verified
Drummoyne, NSW 2047
I am a Registered Psychologist with the Psychology Board of Australia and also a member of the Australian Psychology Society. I have a Masters in Psychology in Family Therapy, a Masters in Health Education and also a Graduate Certificate in Clinical Supervision. With 35 years of experience in individual, couple, family, and relationships therapy.
I am a Registered Psychologist with the Psychology Board of Australia and also a member of the Australian Psychology Society. I have a Masters in Psychology in Family Therapy, a Masters in Health Education and also a Graduate Certificate in Clinical Supervision. With 35 years of experience in individual, couple, family, and relationships therapy.
(02) 9100 0081 View (02) 9100 0081
Bipolar Disorder Counsellors

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.