Bipolar Disorder Counselling in Metropolitan Adelaide, SA

Photo of Donna Starr Dulvarie, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Donna Starr Dulvarie
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Adelaide, SA 5000
Starr can assist with: Adjustment difficulties, Anger management and emotion regulation, Anxiety disorders, Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) , Bipolar disorders, Depression and Mood Disorders, Grief and Loss, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Panic disorder, Perfectionism and Low self-esteem, Phobias, Pre and post-natal mental health, Sleep issues, Stress management, Trauma (PTSD and Complex Trauma), and more.
Starr understands the importance of working collaboratively to ensure therapy is tailored to meet your needs. Starr draws on elements from a number of evidence-based therapies including: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR)
Starr can assist with: Adjustment difficulties, Anger management and emotion regulation, Anxiety disorders, Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) , Bipolar disorders, Depression and Mood Disorders, Grief and Loss, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Panic disorder, Perfectionism and Low self-esteem, Phobias, Pre and post-natal mental health, Sleep issues, Stress management, Trauma (PTSD and Complex Trauma), and more.
Starr understands the importance of working collaboratively to ensure therapy is tailored to meet your needs. Starr draws on elements from a number of evidence-based therapies including: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR)
(08) 7008 7272 View (08) 7008 7272
Photo of Kerry Gardner, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Kerry Gardner
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Dover Gardens, SA 5048
Kerry works with adolescents and adults in addressing various concerns, including stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, work-life balance difficulties, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other mental health matters.
Kerry approaches therapy in a person-centred manner, creating a unique therapeutic approach in collaboration with each client. Evidence-based approach therapies get to the core of your thoughts and feelings, helping you overcome problems such as stress, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Kerry works with adolescents and adults in addressing various concerns, including stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, work-life balance difficulties, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other mental health matters.
Kerry approaches therapy in a person-centred manner, creating a unique therapeutic approach in collaboration with each client. Evidence-based approach therapies get to the core of your thoughts and feelings, helping you overcome problems such as stress, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
(08) 8311 3964 View (08) 8311 3964
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 Danka Fiedor, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Danka Fiedor
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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 Jo Leidreiter, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Jo Leidreiter
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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 Simone Marshall - Simone Marshall - ADHD Assessment & Therapy Adults, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Simone Marshall - ADHD Assessment & Therapy Adults
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Myrtle Bank, SA 5064
If you are struggling with ADHD or need to find out if that is what is going on for you, welcome. Finding the right support can make all the difference. If you're looking for a psychologist who truly understands the challenges of ADHD and other mental health conditions that often occur with ADHD, I’m here to help. Whether you're trying to improve focus, manage emotions, develop a healthier relationship with food, or create structure in your daily life, I tailor my approach to fit you.
If you are struggling with ADHD or need to find out if that is what is going on for you, welcome. Finding the right support can make all the difference. If you're looking for a psychologist who truly understands the challenges of ADHD and other mental health conditions that often occur with ADHD, I’m here to help. Whether you're trying to improve focus, manage emotions, develop a healthier relationship with food, or create structure in your daily life, I tailor my approach to fit you.
(08) 7008 7005 View (08) 7008 7005
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 Neda Bojnoordi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Neda Bojnoordi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Adelaide, SA 5000
Waitlist for new clients
As an experienced therapist integrating multiple evidence-based approaches including EMDR, CBT, trauma-informed therapy, and mindfulness-based interventions, I specialise in supporting adults through life's challenges. My clients often come to therapy seeking relief from anxiety, depression, or trauma symptoms that are impacting their daily lives. They may be struggling with workplace stress, relationship difficulties, or the lingering effects of past experiences. What unites them is their readiness to engage in therapeutic work and their desire for positive change. I create a warm, collaborative environment where clients feel safe.
As an experienced therapist integrating multiple evidence-based approaches including EMDR, CBT, trauma-informed therapy, and mindfulness-based interventions, I specialise in supporting adults through life's challenges. My clients often come to therapy seeking relief from anxiety, depression, or trauma symptoms that are impacting their daily lives. They may be struggling with workplace stress, relationship difficulties, or the lingering effects of past experiences. What unites them is their readiness to engage in therapeutic work and their desire for positive change. I create a warm, collaborative environment where clients feel safe.
(08) 7008 7971 View (08) 7008 7971
Photo of Natalie Obrien - Empowered Self Psychology & Holistic Centre , Counsellor, PsychD, ACA-L1
Empowered Self Psychology & Holistic Centre
Counsellor, PsychD, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Gawler, SA 5118
I have a passion for sharing the journey with people, to where they desire to be in their life. I help women find their strength & power after experiencing domestic violence or sexual abuse. I also have worked with men who experienced similar struggles. I have extensive experience in children and adults on the spectrum. Couples counselling and intimacy coaching are a speciality. PTSD, depression and anxiety due to trauma or workplace accidents also a specialty.
I have a passion for sharing the journey with people, to where they desire to be in their life. I help women find their strength & power after experiencing domestic violence or sexual abuse. I also have worked with men who experienced similar struggles. I have extensive experience in children and adults on the spectrum. Couples counselling and intimacy coaching are a speciality. PTSD, depression and anxiety due to trauma or workplace accidents also a specialty.
(08) 7509 4079 View (08) 7509 4079
Photo of Kristelle Ioannou, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Kristelle Ioannou
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Rose Park, SA 5067
Kristelle is a compassionate and dedicated clinical psychologist who considers it a privilege to support individuals from various backgrounds. She is committed to helping children and families develop the skills and resilience necessary to effectively manage life's challenges. With extensive experience working with diverse cultural populations and addressing complex mental health needs, Kristelle provides comprehensive and professional care.
Kristelle is a compassionate and dedicated clinical psychologist who considers it a privilege to support individuals from various backgrounds. She is committed to helping children and families develop the skills and resilience necessary to effectively manage life's challenges. With extensive experience working with diverse cultural populations and addressing complex mental health needs, Kristelle provides comprehensive and professional care.
(08) 7008 7874 View (08) 7008 7874
Photo of Jeremy Paterson, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Jeremy Paterson
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Adelaide, SA 5000
Jeremy is a clinical psychologist who has experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families, helping them to better understand themselves and connect with others. His qualifications include Bachelor of Arts (Psychology), Graduate Diploma in Psychology (with Distinction), and Master of Clinical Psychology. Jeremy strives for a warm and accepting therapeutic approach and welcomes people with a variety of challenges in their lives.
Jeremy is a clinical psychologist who has experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families, helping them to better understand themselves and connect with others. His qualifications include Bachelor of Arts (Psychology), Graduate Diploma in Psychology (with Distinction), and Master of Clinical Psychology. Jeremy strives for a warm and accepting therapeutic approach and welcomes people with a variety of challenges in their lives.
(08) 7008 7081 View (08) 7008 7081
Photo of Kubra Aydogan, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Kubra Aydogan
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Online Only
I'm Kubra - and I work with kids, teens and young adults. Growing up neurodivergent can feel like you have been caught between two lands. There is the land of mainstream neurotypicalism - this land is made up of unspoken and confusing rules, uncomfortable clothes, and expectations about how you should move, speak, and look at other people (and for how long!).
I'm Kubra - and I work with kids, teens and young adults. Growing up neurodivergent can feel like you have been caught between two lands. There is the land of mainstream neurotypicalism - this land is made up of unspoken and confusing rules, uncomfortable clothes, and expectations about how you should move, speak, and look at other people (and for how long!).
(02) 9158 6130 View (02) 9158 6130
Photo of Irene Lock-Simmons - Mind Strategy Psychological Focussed Counselling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Mind Strategy Psychological Focussed Counselling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Somerton Park, SA 5044
Mind Strategy covers a broad range of issues such as Trauma, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disturbances, Personality Disorders, Behaviour Management, Panic, Phobias, Relationship Issues, Chronic Stress, Grief and Loss. Mind Strategy can provide short-term or long-term counselling, adapting to your needs and goals. Mind Strategy endeavours to assist clients with the process of change. We offer insight into emotional and behavioural responses to thoughts, and provide rationale or reasoning behind unhelpful thoughts. Mind Strategy provides therapeutic support in a safe and nurturing environment.
Mind Strategy covers a broad range of issues such as Trauma, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disturbances, Personality Disorders, Behaviour Management, Panic, Phobias, Relationship Issues, Chronic Stress, Grief and Loss. Mind Strategy can provide short-term or long-term counselling, adapting to your needs and goals. Mind Strategy endeavours to assist clients with the process of change. We offer insight into emotional and behavioural responses to thoughts, and provide rationale or reasoning behind unhelpful thoughts. Mind Strategy provides therapeutic support in a safe and nurturing environment.
(08) 7008 7096 View (08) 7008 7096
Photo of Tanja Lauren Hawker - EcoArt Therapy , Psychotherapist, ACA-L1
EcoArt Therapy
Psychotherapist, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Kersbrook, SA 5231
I am committed to providing a positive and empowering experience for my clients whilst building rapport and a strong confidential therapeutic relationship. I have strong communication and listening skills and I’m able to converse with and understand people of different cultural backgrounds. I enjoy working with people of different age groups, cultural backgrounds & value systems. I provide online, mobile, and private consultation. I'm interested in psychedelic psychotherapy, eco psychotherapy, drug and alcohol rehabilitation, anxiety & depression, PTSD/CPTSD, schizophrenia & family therapy.
I am committed to providing a positive and empowering experience for my clients whilst building rapport and a strong confidential therapeutic relationship. I have strong communication and listening skills and I’m able to converse with and understand people of different cultural backgrounds. I enjoy working with people of different age groups, cultural backgrounds & value systems. I provide online, mobile, and private consultation. I'm interested in psychedelic psychotherapy, eco psychotherapy, drug and alcohol rehabilitation, anxiety & depression, PTSD/CPTSD, schizophrenia & family therapy.
(08) 7282 0284 View (08) 7282 0284
Photo of Joumana Jeffers - Illuminate Counselling, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Illuminate Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Toorak Gardens, SA 5065
I consider my role as a counsellor is to give you an opportunity to explore your issues and aim towards achieving your full potential of self-knowledge and growth. I am committed to providing a safe, confidential & non-judgmental environment, where you can talk about the difficult feelings and problems you are facing and uncover the root cause of your concerns. I draw on a wealth of professional and life experience to help you focus on issues and problems that are holding you back from achieving a more positive and satisfying life. Together, we collaboratively develop effective strategies to help you achieve lasting change.
I consider my role as a counsellor is to give you an opportunity to explore your issues and aim towards achieving your full potential of self-knowledge and growth. I am committed to providing a safe, confidential & non-judgmental environment, where you can talk about the difficult feelings and problems you are facing and uncover the root cause of your concerns. I draw on a wealth of professional and life experience to help you focus on issues and problems that are holding you back from achieving a more positive and satisfying life. Together, we collaboratively develop effective strategies to help you achieve lasting change.
(08) 7008 7338 View (08) 7008 7338
Photo of Melissa Purcell, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Melissa Purcell
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stirling, SA 5152
Accepting New Referrals! Hello, I’m Melissa, a clinical psychologist offering consultations in the Adelaide Hills at Stirling. With 15 years of experience in mental health, my expertise lies in helping you navigate your unique challenges. My mission is to create a supportive space where you can explore your inner world with curiosity and gain a deeper understanding of yourself—where all parts of you are welcome.
Accepting New Referrals! Hello, I’m Melissa, a clinical psychologist offering consultations in the Adelaide Hills at Stirling. With 15 years of experience in mental health, my expertise lies in helping you navigate your unique challenges. My mission is to create a supportive space where you can explore your inner world with curiosity and gain a deeper understanding of yourself—where all parts of you are welcome.
(08) 7008 9138 View (08) 7008 9138
Photo of Kj Wiseheart, Counsellor, ACA-L4
Kj Wiseheart
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mawson Lakes, SA 5095
Have you felt like you're living in a world that wasn't designed for you? Wondering about autism, ADHD, or something else? Perhaps you're beginning to lean into a newly discovered queer identity? Or maybe you'd like support in resisting the normative pressures of a world that doesn't always welcome your beautifully complex and multi-faceted self. I offer a safe and non-judgmental space to explore the many layers of your experience, and re-author the narrative in ways that feel more aligned with who you are and how you prefer to be.
Have you felt like you're living in a world that wasn't designed for you? Wondering about autism, ADHD, or something else? Perhaps you're beginning to lean into a newly discovered queer identity? Or maybe you'd like support in resisting the normative pressures of a world that doesn't always welcome your beautifully complex and multi-faceted self. I offer a safe and non-judgmental space to explore the many layers of your experience, and re-author the narrative in ways that feel more aligned with who you are and how you prefer to be.
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Photo of Nick Raymond - Evergreen Psychology Services, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Evergreen Psychology Services
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Seacliff, SA 5049
Immediate availability - mental health treatment plans/medicare rebate, NDIS, or private paying. I listen carefully to my clients and seek to understand their experience, before collaborating on an approach that meets their goals and aims for therapy. I have a special interest in supporting clients to create a more meaningful and fulfilling life, while working through barriers such as anxiety, depression, stress and overwhelm. My approach is client-focused and incorporates evidence-based treatments including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy.
Immediate availability - mental health treatment plans/medicare rebate, NDIS, or private paying. I listen carefully to my clients and seek to understand their experience, before collaborating on an approach that meets their goals and aims for therapy. I have a special interest in supporting clients to create a more meaningful and fulfilling life, while working through barriers such as anxiety, depression, stress and overwhelm. My approach is client-focused and incorporates evidence-based treatments including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy.
(08) 7008 9850 View (08) 7008 9850
Photo of Tracey Jane Campbell - Inspired Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Inspired Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Malvern, SA 5061
We are a South Australian psychology practice who provide clinical services across the lifespan. We aim to help people negotiate life’s journey with a sense of well being, positive self-concept, connected relationships and the capacity to manage stressors. We offer individual therapy as well as therapy with couples and families. We have a diverse range of skilled clinicians offering a variety of therapeutic approaches tailored to meet your needs. We also offer assessment services including amongst others, autism and ADHD assessments, adaptive functioning and cognitive/educational assessments.
We are a South Australian psychology practice who provide clinical services across the lifespan. We aim to help people negotiate life’s journey with a sense of well being, positive self-concept, connected relationships and the capacity to manage stressors. We offer individual therapy as well as therapy with couples and families. We have a diverse range of skilled clinicians offering a variety of therapeutic approaches tailored to meet your needs. We also offer assessment services including amongst others, autism and ADHD assessments, adaptive functioning and cognitive/educational assessments.
(08) 7008 9672 View (08) 7008 9672
Photo of Sunet Gopaul - Adelaide Psych Central l Sunet Gopaul , Psychotherapist, ACA-L4
Adelaide Psych Central l Sunet Gopaul
Psychotherapist, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
North Adelaide, SA 5006
Imagine Your Ideal Journey to Healing. Life can sometimes feel overwhelming, leaving us burdened by stress, anxiety, trauma, and sleepless nights. In these moments, it’s easy to think we just need to "soldier on," hoping time will heal our wounds, but often, years later, we find ourselves still grappling with unresolved feelings, anger, and triggers that impact our daily lives. If this resonates with you, know that you’re not alone—and more importantly, there’s a path to healing. You don’t have to settle for merely surviving. Together we can move towards transformation and healing from Trauma, not just managing symptoms.
Imagine Your Ideal Journey to Healing. Life can sometimes feel overwhelming, leaving us burdened by stress, anxiety, trauma, and sleepless nights. In these moments, it’s easy to think we just need to "soldier on," hoping time will heal our wounds, but often, years later, we find ourselves still grappling with unresolved feelings, anger, and triggers that impact our daily lives. If this resonates with you, know that you’re not alone—and more importantly, there’s a path to healing. You don’t have to settle for merely surviving. Together we can move towards transformation and healing from Trauma, not just managing symptoms.
(08) 7008 7273 View (08) 7008 7273
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See more therapy options for Metropolitan Adelaide

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.