Bipolar Disorder Counselling in Brighton, VIC

Photo of Suzanne Klotz - People Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Suzanne Klotz - People Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Brighton, VIC 3186
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 Jade Souza, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Prov
Jade Souza
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Prov
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I treat a variety of mental health concerns with anxiety, depression (including bipolar), ADHD, ASD and relationships challenges as my specific interest areas.
I am an overseas-trained psychologist with ten years of experience and currently, I hold a provisional registration. I have a Master's in Clinical Psychology and I work I am also PhD Candidate at the University of Queensland. I am a bilingual psychotherapist, both fluent in English and Portuguese.
I treat a variety of mental health concerns with anxiety, depression (including bipolar), ADHD, ASD and relationships challenges as my specific interest areas.
I am an overseas-trained psychologist with ten years of experience and currently, I hold a provisional registration. I have a Master's in Clinical Psychology and I work I am also PhD Candidate at the University of Queensland. I am a bilingual psychotherapist, both fluent in English and Portuguese.
1300 224 665 View 1300 224 665
Photo of Ali Stevens, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Ali Stevens
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have experience in treating a range of clinical presentations such as; Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Eating Disorders: Anorexia Nervosa, Binge Eating, Disordered Eating, Anxiety Disorders (Panic Disorders, Social Anxiety Disorder, OCD, GAD), Mood Disorders (Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, etc.
What you can expect working with me: Working as a Clinical Psychologist for six years, my style has been to keep things honest and real. I’ll gently challenge some of the habits or behaviours that might be holding you back. We’ll work together to understand these patterns and find ways to change them so you can feel more in control and happier in your day-to-day life. It might feel a bit uncomfortable sometimes, but I’ll be here to support you as you make those important changes. I also strongly believe in the benefit of a holistic approach, so I will often work alongside any other health professionals involved in your care.
I have experience in treating a range of clinical presentations such as; Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Eating Disorders: Anorexia Nervosa, Binge Eating, Disordered Eating, Anxiety Disorders (Panic Disorders, Social Anxiety Disorder, OCD, GAD), Mood Disorders (Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, etc.
What you can expect working with me: Working as a Clinical Psychologist for six years, my style has been to keep things honest and real. I’ll gently challenge some of the habits or behaviours that might be holding you back. We’ll work together to understand these patterns and find ways to change them so you can feel more in control and happier in your day-to-day life. It might feel a bit uncomfortable sometimes, but I’ll be here to support you as you make those important changes. I also strongly believe in the benefit of a holistic approach, so I will often work alongside any other health professionals involved in your care.
(03) 7003 2104 View (03) 7003 2104
Photo of Jaclyn D Lee - Neurogenesis Clinical Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Neurogenesis Clinical Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My clinical focus is with clients 16+ -adults with a wide range of mood & personality disorders ( Bipolar/ depression/ BPD) & with behaviours of suicidality and self-harm & also with clients with C/PTSD and trauma.
Accepting New Clients ! - Jaclyn is a Clinical psychologist and aims to provide therapy with a difference. Our work together will be person focused and beautifully supportive however this will be a therapeutic approach to see transformation! I have a focus on intervention; my patients come to me because they want to see change and are tired of talking about their week on loop; so, whilst our work together may be hard and sometimes very challenging, with support together we will make that change that you have been waiting to achieve.
My clinical focus is with clients 16+ -adults with a wide range of mood & personality disorders ( Bipolar/ depression/ BPD) & with behaviours of suicidality and self-harm & also with clients with C/PTSD and trauma.
Accepting New Clients ! - Jaclyn is a Clinical psychologist and aims to provide therapy with a difference. Our work together will be person focused and beautifully supportive however this will be a therapeutic approach to see transformation! I have a focus on intervention; my patients come to me because they want to see change and are tired of talking about their week on loop; so, whilst our work together may be hard and sometimes very challenging, with support together we will make that change that you have been waiting to achieve.
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Photo of James Shulman, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
James Shulman
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Brighton, VIC 3186
No current availability for new clients Dr. James Shulman is a clinical psychologist who recognises the importance of creating a safe space for individuals who come to therapy at a challenging time in their lives. James understands that the relationship between client and therapist is central to therapy. James focuses on building a shared understanding of difficulties that may be interfering in people's lives, and how to enhance well-being and functioning. James specialises in working with adolescents and adults across a broad range of mental health difficulties.
No current availability for new clients Dr. James Shulman is a clinical psychologist who recognises the importance of creating a safe space for individuals who come to therapy at a challenging time in their lives. James understands that the relationship between client and therapist is central to therapy. James focuses on building a shared understanding of difficulties that may be interfering in people's lives, and how to enhance well-being and functioning. James specialises in working with adolescents and adults across a broad range of mental health difficulties.
(03) 7003 2141 View (03) 7003 2141
Photo of Deborah Cameron, Psychotherapist, MC, PACFA
Deborah Cameron
Psychotherapist, MC, PACFA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brighton, VIC 3186
Three master’s degrees in psychotherapy, counselling, and special education; a clinical registrant and accredited supervisor with PACFA, AAPi, and ACA. I am currently completing a Master’s in Therapeutic Arts Practice. I provide a supportive space where clients feel heard, valued, and respected. Through active listening, empathy, and non-judgmental reflection, I help clients explore their stories, identify goals, and develop strategies for daily life. While I do not give advice, I engage actively in conversations, ensuring therapy remains collaborative and meaningful. Talk therapy fosters growth, clarity, and self-awareness.
Three master’s degrees in psychotherapy, counselling, and special education; a clinical registrant and accredited supervisor with PACFA, AAPi, and ACA. I am currently completing a Master’s in Therapeutic Arts Practice. I provide a supportive space where clients feel heard, valued, and respected. Through active listening, empathy, and non-judgmental reflection, I help clients explore their stories, identify goals, and develop strategies for daily life. While I do not give advice, I engage actively in conversations, ensuring therapy remains collaborative and meaningful. Talk therapy fosters growth, clarity, and self-awareness.
(03) 7003 2799 View (03) 7003 2799
Photo of Jessica Elberg, Counsellor, MA, AMHSW
Jessica Elberg
Counsellor, MA, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Brighton, VIC 3186
Feeling overwhelmed by life? I am a warm, skilled and experienced counsellor, who will support you through life's challenges, I can help you deal with a broad range of concerns, supporting you to examine your core beliefs and understanding of issues affecting you. Adjusting thoughts, feelings and behaviours through evidence-based counselling techniques creates opportunities for authentic growth and long-lasting change. I will support you in adopting and maintaining effective approaches to any difficulties that your'e experiencing, creating a renewed sense of optimism and well-being.
Feeling overwhelmed by life? I am a warm, skilled and experienced counsellor, who will support you through life's challenges, I can help you deal with a broad range of concerns, supporting you to examine your core beliefs and understanding of issues affecting you. Adjusting thoughts, feelings and behaviours through evidence-based counselling techniques creates opportunities for authentic growth and long-lasting change. I will support you in adopting and maintaining effective approaches to any difficulties that your'e experiencing, creating a renewed sense of optimism and well-being.
(03) 7003 2920 View (03) 7003 2920
Photo of Dr Claudine Martijn - Dr Claudine Martijn - People Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Claudine Martijn - People Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Brighton, VIC 3186
Dr Claudine Martijn (pronounced “Martin”), clinical psychologist, can help you and has extensive experience with multiple psychological, emotional, and mental health needs, including: Stress Anxiety Panic Attacks & Anxiety Phobias (Fear of specific things / situations) Agoraphobia / Social Anxiety Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) & Anxiety Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) Depression Depressive Disorders Perinatal Psychology / Mental Health including Post Natal Depression (PND) Pregnancy Counselling Antenatal Depression Parenting issues Bipoloar Disorder (BD) Grief and Loss and PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder)
Dr Claudine Martijn (pronounced “Martin”), clinical psychologist, can help you and has extensive experience with multiple psychological, emotional, and mental health needs, including: Stress Anxiety Panic Attacks & Anxiety Phobias (Fear of specific things / situations) Agoraphobia / Social Anxiety Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) & Anxiety Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) Depression Depressive Disorders Perinatal Psychology / Mental Health including Post Natal Depression (PND) Pregnancy Counselling Antenatal Depression Parenting issues Bipoloar Disorder (BD) Grief and Loss and PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder)
(03) 7003 2516 View (03) 7003 2516
Photo of Jo-Elle Warhurst - Jo-Elle Warhurst - People Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Jo-Elle Warhurst - People Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Brighton, VIC 3186
Jo-Elle is a Registered Psychologist with over twenty years experience specialising in supporting clients, children (5-12 years), teenagers (13-17 years) and adults, to overcome their psychological symptoms to achieve recovery and personal growth. Through the application of CBT, ACT and Mindfulness principles, Jo-Elle is able to assist clients to stabilise anxiety, mood fluctuation, insomnia, social withdrawal and rebuild their self esteem. Jo-Elle quickly establishes rapport with clients across a broad range of sectors and backgrounds to explore their challenges and equip them with the tools to resolve their presenting concerns.
Jo-Elle is a Registered Psychologist with over twenty years experience specialising in supporting clients, children (5-12 years), teenagers (13-17 years) and adults, to overcome their psychological symptoms to achieve recovery and personal growth. Through the application of CBT, ACT and Mindfulness principles, Jo-Elle is able to assist clients to stabilise anxiety, mood fluctuation, insomnia, social withdrawal and rebuild their self esteem. Jo-Elle quickly establishes rapport with clients across a broad range of sectors and backgrounds to explore their challenges and equip them with the tools to resolve their presenting concerns.
(03) 7003 2532 View (03) 7003 2532
Photo of Rachel O'meara, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Rachel O'meara
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Rachel is a compassionate Psychologist dedicated to providing support to individuals across the lifespan, from children to adolescents and adults, who are navigating a variety of challenges. With experience in Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Trauma and Stressor Related Disorders, family violence and physical disabilities, Rachel brings a comprehensive approach to her practice. She believes in the power of strengths-based intervention plans tailored to each person’s unique needs, fostering a sense of empowerment and agency.
Rachel is a compassionate Psychologist dedicated to providing support to individuals across the lifespan, from children to adolescents and adults, who are navigating a variety of challenges. With experience in Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Trauma and Stressor Related Disorders, family violence and physical disabilities, Rachel brings a comprehensive approach to her practice. She believes in the power of strengths-based intervention plans tailored to each person’s unique needs, fostering a sense of empowerment and agency.
(03) 7003 2714 View (03) 7003 2714
Photo of Franco Greco - Your Psychologist, Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Your Psychologist
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Hi, I’m Franco the founder of Your Psychologist. Are you are feeling stuck in a negative cycle in your life, work or relationships? Are you have been suffering from depression and anxiety for a long time? I have an approach to to help you experience the change, relief and lightness you’re looking for. As an accredited Schema Therapist, in my practice I focus on schema therapy. It is designed to help you change negative life patterns. So you can tackle what's holding you back in life, career and relationships. In schema therapy, I work together with you to address and modify these deeper life patterns.
Hi, I’m Franco the founder of Your Psychologist. Are you are feeling stuck in a negative cycle in your life, work or relationships? Are you have been suffering from depression and anxiety for a long time? I have an approach to to help you experience the change, relief and lightness you’re looking for. As an accredited Schema Therapist, in my practice I focus on schema therapy. It is designed to help you change negative life patterns. So you can tackle what's holding you back in life, career and relationships. In schema therapy, I work together with you to address and modify these deeper life patterns.
(03) 6144 9349 View (03) 6144 9349
Photo of Pavel (Paul) Golod, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Pavel (Paul) Golod
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I'm Paul from Clear Perspectives Psychology, and I'm hoping to work with those committed to improving their mental wellbeing and who are ready to take the first step towards a healthier, happier life. Whether facing issues relating to anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges, I welcome you to contact me for professional support. I use evidence-based practical tools and strategies, which are personally tailored to your strengths and circumstances, to provide focused and optimal care. I work with children, adolescents, and adults to help with your specific challenges and needs.
Hi, I'm Paul from Clear Perspectives Psychology, and I'm hoping to work with those committed to improving their mental wellbeing and who are ready to take the first step towards a healthier, happier life. Whether facing issues relating to anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges, I welcome you to contact me for professional support. I use evidence-based practical tools and strategies, which are personally tailored to your strengths and circumstances, to provide focused and optimal care. I work with children, adolescents, and adults to help with your specific challenges and needs.
(03) 7003 2734 View (03) 7003 2734
Photo of Lee Cubis, Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Lee Cubis
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a Clinical Psychologist with over 18 years working in the health and disability sectors (as a support worker, assistant in nursing and Psychologist). I have an interest in working with people from LGBTQIA+ populations including individuals and relationship work. I have a strong understanding of the many ways that intimate relationships are structured. I als work with adults from all populations to manage anxiety disorders using effective and evidence-based interventions. I have a further interest in working with adults with disability including acquired brain injury, intellectual disability, ASD, and neuro-degenerative disease.
I am a Clinical Psychologist with over 18 years working in the health and disability sectors (as a support worker, assistant in nursing and Psychologist). I have an interest in working with people from LGBTQIA+ populations including individuals and relationship work. I have a strong understanding of the many ways that intimate relationships are structured. I als work with adults from all populations to manage anxiety disorders using effective and evidence-based interventions. I have a further interest in working with adults with disability including acquired brain injury, intellectual disability, ASD, and neuro-degenerative disease.
(03) 6316 1110 View (03) 6316 1110
Photo of Brooke Scerri, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Brooke Scerri
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Online Only
Connection, collaboration, empathy, and open-mindedness are the foundational values that guide my work. I am deeply passionate about creating a space that is safe, non-judgemental, and uniquely attuned to each individual. My approach is integrative and trauma-informed, drawing upon a range of modalities including EMDR, Inner Child Healing, Internal Family Systems, Parts Work, Re-Parenting, Attachment-Based Therapy, ACT, Imagery Re-Scripting, Somatic Psychotherapy, Shadow Work, Neuroplasticity Re-Routing, and Mindfulness. My clients often seek more than symptom relief, they’re drawn to a deeper process of empowerment and embodiment.
Connection, collaboration, empathy, and open-mindedness are the foundational values that guide my work. I am deeply passionate about creating a space that is safe, non-judgemental, and uniquely attuned to each individual. My approach is integrative and trauma-informed, drawing upon a range of modalities including EMDR, Inner Child Healing, Internal Family Systems, Parts Work, Re-Parenting, Attachment-Based Therapy, ACT, Imagery Re-Scripting, Somatic Psychotherapy, Shadow Work, Neuroplasticity Re-Routing, and Mindfulness. My clients often seek more than symptom relief, they’re drawn to a deeper process of empowerment and embodiment.
(03) 7003 2218 View (03) 7003 2218
Photo of Melis Topsahin, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Melis Topsahin
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Online Only
I particularly assist clients that require therapy in the areas of anxiety, substance abuse (other addictions), depression and relationship issues. My focus is on working with the client towards personal development and goal setting. Each client is so very unique, hence, requires a personal counselling approach that is catered entirely for them. As a therapist, i work with various approaches such as: CBT, ACT, humanistic approach and TRTP (trauma therapy) amongst many other(s).
I particularly assist clients that require therapy in the areas of anxiety, substance abuse (other addictions), depression and relationship issues. My focus is on working with the client towards personal development and goal setting. Each client is so very unique, hence, requires a personal counselling approach that is catered entirely for them. As a therapist, i work with various approaches such as: CBT, ACT, humanistic approach and TRTP (trauma therapy) amongst many other(s).
(02) 4504 0146 View (02) 4504 0146
Photo of Penelope Lovegrove, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Penelope Lovegrove
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Currently accepting new clients. I pride myself on developing a supportive, collaborative and compassionate relationship with my clients, focusing on delivering psychological treatments based on current evidence. I work with individuals aged 17 and above across a range of issues. I am particularly interested in anxiety and related disorders in men and the intersection of mental health and menopause in women. I also provide psychotherapy and coaching for the management of ADHD in adults.
Currently accepting new clients. I pride myself on developing a supportive, collaborative and compassionate relationship with my clients, focusing on delivering psychological treatments based on current evidence. I work with individuals aged 17 and above across a range of issues. I am particularly interested in anxiety and related disorders in men and the intersection of mental health and menopause in women. I also provide psychotherapy and coaching for the management of ADHD in adults.
(03) 7500 5592 View (03) 7500 5592
Photo of Paul Vanderputt, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Paul Vanderputt
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Hi I'm Paul, I'm a registered Psychologist and the Director of Adaptive Counselling and Psychology in Bentleigh. I believe that good therapy means having a good therapeutic relationship, and I take the time to build this before getting stuck into treatment. I see anyone aged 15+ and have a particular focus on working with depression, anxiety (general and social), stress, and trauma.
Hi I'm Paul, I'm a registered Psychologist and the Director of Adaptive Counselling and Psychology in Bentleigh. I believe that good therapy means having a good therapeutic relationship, and I take the time to build this before getting stuck into treatment. I see anyone aged 15+ and have a particular focus on working with depression, anxiety (general and social), stress, and trauma.
(03) 7003 2513 View (03) 7003 2513
Photo of Carl Nelms - Blokes Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Blokes Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Accepting New Clients Now! Our mission at Blokes Psychology is to empower and support men in their mental health journey. We strive to create a safe and welcoming environment where men can openly discuss their life challenges, feelings and emotions without fear of judgment. Through evidence-based practices and a holistic approach, we aim to assist men in achieving optimal mental wellness and improve the quality of their lives. Our goal is to break down the stigma surrounding men's mental health and provide accessible resources for all boys & men to improve their mental wellbeing. We have offices in Cheltenham, Hawthorn & Scoresby!
Accepting New Clients Now! Our mission at Blokes Psychology is to empower and support men in their mental health journey. We strive to create a safe and welcoming environment where men can openly discuss their life challenges, feelings and emotions without fear of judgment. Through evidence-based practices and a holistic approach, we aim to assist men in achieving optimal mental wellness and improve the quality of their lives. Our goal is to break down the stigma surrounding men's mental health and provide accessible resources for all boys & men to improve their mental wellbeing. We have offices in Cheltenham, Hawthorn & Scoresby!
(03) 9070 5494 View (03) 9070 5494
Photo of Nicola Addlem, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Nicola Addlem
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I help clients to manage anxiety, stress and depression. I take a collaborative approach to help you improve your mood, reduce anxiety, and build social connections. I work with children, adolescents and adults and their families. I have experience working in private practice, NDIS, and community psychology.
I help clients to manage anxiety, stress and depression. I take a collaborative approach to help you improve your mood, reduce anxiety, and build social connections. I work with children, adolescents and adults and their families. I have experience working in private practice, NDIS, and community psychology.
(03) 7003 2707 View (03) 7003 2707
Photo of Jessica Glaser - One Another , Psychotherapist, MA, AThR
One Another
Psychotherapist, MA, AThR
Verified Verified
Serves Area
One Another provides a boutique mobile service based in Melbourne that evolved from the concept that recovery and healing is achievable for all. Being mobile, we drive up to 30min from the CBD to any area South, East or Northern Suburbs. We work with NDIS and TAC clients as well. We strongly believe that you are the expert of your experience and work in collaboration with you to tailor and personalise your therapeutic journey around what you need in order to keep moving forward.
One Another provides a boutique mobile service based in Melbourne that evolved from the concept that recovery and healing is achievable for all. Being mobile, we drive up to 30min from the CBD to any area South, East or Northern Suburbs. We work with NDIS and TAC clients as well. We strongly believe that you are the expert of your experience and work in collaboration with you to tailor and personalise your therapeutic journey around what you need in order to keep moving forward.
0488 061 064 View 0488 061 064
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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.