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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Alpana Das-Daffern, Registered Social Worker in Belgrave, ON
Alpana Das-Daffern
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Durham, ON N0G  (Online Only)
Hi, I wanted to share with you that I am a registered member of the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) and a part of the Ontario Association of Social Workers (OASW). One of my top priorities is to stay current and well-informed for both you and the clients I serve. I have attended numerous evidence-based trainings to ensure that I can provide you with the best care possible.
Hi, I wanted to share with you that I am a registered member of the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW) and a part of the Ontario Association of Social Workers (OASW). One of my top priorities is to stay current and well-informed for both you and the clients I serve. I have attended numerous evidence-based trainings to ensure that I can provide you with the best care possible.
(365) 544-3478 View (365) 544-3478
Photo of Heyday Therapy Inc, Registered Psychotherapist in Belgrave, ON
Heyday Therapy Inc
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Durham, ON N0G
It is natural to need professional support when struggling with mental health. Here are examples of some issues that our therapists can help you with: anger management, anxiety/stress and depression management, addiction, burnout, relationship counseling, or couples counseling, marital & pre-marital therapy, family conflicts, modern parenting, blended families, children and divorce, teen issues, relationship problems, instability, conflict or communication issues, dating issues, infidelity peer relationships Illness or disease diagnoses bereavement, grief and loss counselling, career and corporate coaching, etc.
It is natural to need professional support when struggling with mental health. Here are examples of some issues that our therapists can help you with: anger management, anxiety/stress and depression management, addiction, burnout, relationship counseling, or couples counseling, marital & pre-marital therapy, family conflicts, modern parenting, blended families, children and divorce, teen issues, relationship problems, instability, conflict or communication issues, dating issues, infidelity peer relationships Illness or disease diagnoses bereavement, grief and loss counselling, career and corporate coaching, etc.
(647) 797-9743 View (647) 797-9743
Photo of Nate Venema @ Psychotherapy for You, Registered Social Worker in Belgrave, ON
Nate Venema @ Psychotherapy for You
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, ON N0G  (Online Only)
I am a Registered Social Worker and a virtual counselor in Ontario. My educational background includes a Bachelor of Psychology, a Master of Education, and a Master of Social Work. I provide strength-based therapy services for children, young adults, individuals, couples, and families using an anti-oppressive, integrated approach tailored to the unique needs of each new client. There are so many changes that happen as families grow and develop with the passing years, and I’m here to help with these transitions. For over twenty years I have worked in a variety of settings with diverse clients, including both long-term and brief
I am a Registered Social Worker and a virtual counselor in Ontario. My educational background includes a Bachelor of Psychology, a Master of Education, and a Master of Social Work. I provide strength-based therapy services for children, young adults, individuals, couples, and families using an anti-oppressive, integrated approach tailored to the unique needs of each new client. There are so many changes that happen as families grow and develop with the passing years, and I’m here to help with these transitions. For over twenty years I have worked in a variety of settings with diverse clients, including both long-term and brief
(343) 805-0202 View (343) 805-0202
Photo of Hilltop Healing, Registered Social Worker in Belgrave, ON
Hilltop Healing
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Formosa, ON N0G
Accepting New Clients. We as human beings experience stressors, challenges, difficulties and traumas as we navigate life, regardless of our age. We might struggle with feelings of sadness, anger or anxiety. Many of us need a place to feel understood, safe and connected. We yearn for validation, empathy, acceptance and compassion. We want to feel more connected to ourselves and/or our relationships. We want to feel like we belong, we are valued and we matter. Our lives can be so busy and full of chaos. We can experience more clarity. We want to increase our feelings of joy, calm and our sense of worth. You are enough.
Accepting New Clients. We as human beings experience stressors, challenges, difficulties and traumas as we navigate life, regardless of our age. We might struggle with feelings of sadness, anger or anxiety. Many of us need a place to feel understood, safe and connected. We yearn for validation, empathy, acceptance and compassion. We want to feel more connected to ourselves and/or our relationships. We want to feel like we belong, we are valued and we matter. Our lives can be so busy and full of chaos. We can experience more clarity. We want to increase our feelings of joy, calm and our sense of worth. You are enough.
(226) 407-6155 View (226) 407-6155

Online Therapists

Photo of Edward S Davey, Registered Social Worker in Belgrave, ON
Edward S Davey
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, BSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orangeville, ON L9W  (Online Only)
My areas of speciality include; depression, anxiety, ADHD, and managing certain personality disorders including (but not limited to) borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, and social anxiety. Other areas of focus include professional and/or workplace struggles/development including (but not limited to); procrastination, motivation, imposter syndrome, and perfectionism. My goal is to work with my clients towards recognizing and understanding exactly what is hindering their personal growth and acting as a barrier against success.
My areas of speciality include; depression, anxiety, ADHD, and managing certain personality disorders including (but not limited to) borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, and social anxiety. Other areas of focus include professional and/or workplace struggles/development including (but not limited to); procrastination, motivation, imposter syndrome, and perfectionism. My goal is to work with my clients towards recognizing and understanding exactly what is hindering their personal growth and acting as a barrier against success.
(548) 485-5914 View (548) 485-5914
Photo of Henry Wong, Registered Social Worker in Belgrave, ON
Henry Wong
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richmond Hill, ON L4S
Accepting NEW patients! I speak Cantonese, Mandarin and English. I provide counselling to children, youth and adults via secure video and phone calls. I view mental health as a cardiologist views heart health – a vital part of living! I am passionate about healing and helping you live your best life. I enjoy working with individuals with concerns related to any life challenges experienced that prevent you from living your best life, including: trauma, attachment, addiction, grief, relationship concerns, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, BPD and psychosis. I also work with a team of therapists, dietitians and naturopaths.
Accepting NEW patients! I speak Cantonese, Mandarin and English. I provide counselling to children, youth and adults via secure video and phone calls. I view mental health as a cardiologist views heart health – a vital part of living! I am passionate about healing and helping you live your best life. I enjoy working with individuals with concerns related to any life challenges experienced that prevent you from living your best life, including: trauma, attachment, addiction, grief, relationship concerns, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, BPD and psychosis. I also work with a team of therapists, dietitians and naturopaths.
(289) 536-4946 View (289) 536-4946
Photo of Greg Rennie - Bipolar Disorder And Addiction Specialist, Registered Psychotherapist in Belgrave, ON
Greg Rennie - Bipolar Disorder And Addiction Specialist
Registered Psychotherapist, BSW, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M2N
Hello! I'm Greg and I have over 20 years experience as a therapist and specialize in Bipolar Disorder (trained in Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT), addiction (substances, porn and sex addiction) and PTSD. Most of my career I have worked in mental health and addiction hospitals like Homewood Health Centre and Bellwood Health Services. I provide online therapy in ALL Provinces and Territories for individuals and for families impacted by Bipolar Disorder, substance abuse and addiction. For a free 15 minute consultation go to my website (see button) or go to rennieclinicalservices.janeapp.com or (289) 307-5154
Hello! I'm Greg and I have over 20 years experience as a therapist and specialize in Bipolar Disorder (trained in Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT), addiction (substances, porn and sex addiction) and PTSD. Most of my career I have worked in mental health and addiction hospitals like Homewood Health Centre and Bellwood Health Services. I provide online therapy in ALL Provinces and Territories for individuals and for families impacted by Bipolar Disorder, substance abuse and addiction. For a free 15 minute consultation go to my website (see button) or go to rennieclinicalservices.janeapp.com or (289) 307-5154
(289) 307-5154 View (289) 307-5154
Photo of Starling Psychological Services, Psychologist in Belgrave, ON
Starling Psychological Services
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4M
Our clinic specializes in the treatment of mood disorders (with a special focus on Bipolar Disorder), anxiety disorders, trauma, addiction, and many other mental health concerns.
Starling Psychological Services is a multidisciplinary mental health clinic offering therapy services to adults in Ontario. Our goal is to provide professional and ethical psychotherapy for a range of mental health concerns and everyday problems. Our team of psychologists, social workers, and psychotherapists has extensive training and experience helping our clients to improve symptoms and develop the skills and strategies needed to make positive changes in their lives. We take a collaborative approach to counselling and work with our clients to set therapy goals and create a treatment plan to address them.
Our clinic specializes in the treatment of mood disorders (with a special focus on Bipolar Disorder), anxiety disorders, trauma, addiction, and many other mental health concerns.
Starling Psychological Services is a multidisciplinary mental health clinic offering therapy services to adults in Ontario. Our goal is to provide professional and ethical psychotherapy for a range of mental health concerns and everyday problems. Our team of psychologists, social workers, and psychotherapists has extensive training and experience helping our clients to improve symptoms and develop the skills and strategies needed to make positive changes in their lives. We take a collaborative approach to counselling and work with our clients to set therapy goals and create a treatment plan to address them.
(866) 383-6128 View (866) 383-6128
Photo of Kelly Brown, Registered Social Worker in Belgrave, ON
Kelly Brown
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newmarket, ON L3Y
I specialize in addiction/substance use, low self esteem and mental health including, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and childhood trauma.
I believe in you. Whether you’re a teen, adult or young at heart, I will listen and walk with you on your healing journey. If you are struggling with the relationship with yourself, parents, partner or others, I will support you with learning new coping strategies and behaviours on how to best take care of yourself in those relationships.
I specialize in addiction/substance use, low self esteem and mental health including, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and childhood trauma.
I believe in you. Whether you’re a teen, adult or young at heart, I will listen and walk with you on your healing journey. If you are struggling with the relationship with yourself, parents, partner or others, I will support you with learning new coping strategies and behaviours on how to best take care of yourself in those relationships.
(249) 495-5482 View (249) 495-5482
Photo of Jesse Roberts, Psychologist in Belgrave, ON
Jesse Roberts
Psychologist, MA, CPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M3C
I am a registered Clinical and Forensic Psychologist offering individual therapy and assessment services (ADHD; WSIB; psychodiagnostic) through Silm Centre for Mental Health. I use a cognitive behavioral approach in my clinical work (e.g., CBT, DBT, CPT) and work collaboratively with clients to develop meaningful and individualized treatment plans. I see clients for a variety of concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma-related disorders, substance use issues, bipolar and psychotic disorders, gender dysphoria, and issues of emotion regulation (e.g. anger, self-harming).
I am a registered Clinical and Forensic Psychologist offering individual therapy and assessment services (ADHD; WSIB; psychodiagnostic) through Silm Centre for Mental Health. I use a cognitive behavioral approach in my clinical work (e.g., CBT, DBT, CPT) and work collaboratively with clients to develop meaningful and individualized treatment plans. I see clients for a variety of concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma-related disorders, substance use issues, bipolar and psychotic disorders, gender dysphoria, and issues of emotion regulation (e.g. anger, self-harming).
(437) 747-5628 View (437) 747-5628
Photo of Julien Fortier, Registered Social Worker in Belgrave, ON
Julien Fortier
Registered Social Worker, MSW, BMT, RSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5V  (Online Only)
Specializing in complex mental health issues like substance use, bipolar disorder, and more, I offer a holistic approach with mindfulness, motivational interviewing and CBT.
I specialize in supporting clients with mental health challenges—depression, anxiety, PTSD, intellectual disabilities, substance use, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. Ideal clients seek holistic care, combining mindfulness, CBT, music therapy, and empathy. They desire equitable, barrier-free support for stability and a healthier mindset. They value tailored strategies and a collaborative ally skilled in advocacy and communication. Ultimately, they seek understanding and holistic healing in a safe, empathetic space.
Specializing in complex mental health issues like substance use, bipolar disorder, and more, I offer a holistic approach with mindfulness, motivational interviewing and CBT.
I specialize in supporting clients with mental health challenges—depression, anxiety, PTSD, intellectual disabilities, substance use, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. Ideal clients seek holistic care, combining mindfulness, CBT, music therapy, and empathy. They desire equitable, barrier-free support for stability and a healthier mindset. They value tailored strategies and a collaborative ally skilled in advocacy and communication. Ultimately, they seek understanding and holistic healing in a safe, empathetic space.
(647) 492-5144 View (647) 492-5144
Photo of Houyuan (Hy) Luo, Psychologist in Belgrave, ON
Houyuan (Hy) Luo
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5H
I have received solid training in providing psychological assessment and psychotherapy to adults with various concerns such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, excessive emotions or emotional flatness, relationship issues, stress management, anger management, self-criticism, psychosis and psychological intervention of physical illnesses (e.
I am Dr. Houyuan Luo. I am a registered Counselling/Clinical/Health Psychologist and an experienced CBT & ACT therapist in Toronto, Ontario. Thanks for reading my profile, and congratulations on considering the journey of healing and living a meaningful life! As human beings, we all feel vulnerable and struggle with things at times. Nobody is swimming their way through life smoothly and without bumps. As a psychologist, I am your co-traveller. About me: I earned a Ph.D. in Counselling Psychology from the University of Alberta. I aspire to provide high-quality psychological services. More about me on www.drhouyuan.com.
I have received solid training in providing psychological assessment and psychotherapy to adults with various concerns such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, excessive emotions or emotional flatness, relationship issues, stress management, anger management, self-criticism, psychosis and psychological intervention of physical illnesses (e.
I am Dr. Houyuan Luo. I am a registered Counselling/Clinical/Health Psychologist and an experienced CBT & ACT therapist in Toronto, Ontario. Thanks for reading my profile, and congratulations on considering the journey of healing and living a meaningful life! As human beings, we all feel vulnerable and struggle with things at times. Nobody is swimming their way through life smoothly and without bumps. As a psychologist, I am your co-traveller. About me: I earned a Ph.D. in Counselling Psychology from the University of Alberta. I aspire to provide high-quality psychological services. More about me on www.drhouyuan.com.
(647) 697-9428 View (647) 697-9428
Photo of Edith Townsend, Registered Social Worker in Belgrave, ON
Edith Townsend
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1H
I have specialities which include compulsive behaviours such as hypersexuality, gambling, video gaming, shopping, and eating behaviours as well as OCD and bipolar disorder.
With over 22 years of clinical experience and training in the fields of addiction, mental health, relationships and trauma, my practice offers evidence-based therapies to provide an opportunity for clients to attain self-awareness, behaviour change, and personal growth and recovery in an environment that is supportive and non-judgmental. My interests include mood disorders such as anxiety and depression, relationship issues, life transitions, self esteem, and substance and behavioural addictions. I'm dedicated to helping clients build a healthier relationship with themselves and others.
I have specialities which include compulsive behaviours such as hypersexuality, gambling, video gaming, shopping, and eating behaviours as well as OCD and bipolar disorder.
With over 22 years of clinical experience and training in the fields of addiction, mental health, relationships and trauma, my practice offers evidence-based therapies to provide an opportunity for clients to attain self-awareness, behaviour change, and personal growth and recovery in an environment that is supportive and non-judgmental. My interests include mood disorders such as anxiety and depression, relationship issues, life transitions, self esteem, and substance and behavioural addictions. I'm dedicated to helping clients build a healthier relationship with themselves and others.
(226) 779-7805 View (226) 779-7805
Photo of Marci Gray -Social Worker Emdr Psychotherapist, Registered Social Worker in Belgrave, ON
Marci Gray -Social Worker Emdr Psychotherapist
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Brampton, ON L6V
What are you going through? Let’s work together to sort it out, make steps towards recovery, & come to resolution and healing. In a safe and non-judgemental space we focus on your challenges, symptoms and needs. Whether you are seeking individual, couple, or family therapy we can engage in the most appropriate therapeutic solutions for you. I have 20 years experience in the field and have specialized training in treatment for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, OCD, PTSD, & trauma in addition to couples therapy. I’m trained in EMDR, CBT, DBT, EFT etc. I am also the therapist for therapists.
What are you going through? Let’s work together to sort it out, make steps towards recovery, & come to resolution and healing. In a safe and non-judgemental space we focus on your challenges, symptoms and needs. Whether you are seeking individual, couple, or family therapy we can engage in the most appropriate therapeutic solutions for you. I have 20 years experience in the field and have specialized training in treatment for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, OCD, PTSD, & trauma in addition to couples therapy. I’m trained in EMDR, CBT, DBT, EFT etc. I am also the therapist for therapists.
(647) 360-2175 View (647) 360-2175
Photo of Gray Matter Health -Brampton Psychotherapists, Registered Social Worker in Belgrave, ON
Gray Matter Health -Brampton Psychotherapists
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brampton, ON L6Z
Sometimes we just can't do it on our own. Whether you have individual, couple, or family challenges, as a professional or first responder, life is so much more fulfilling when we can reach out for support to get through the rough patch. Our team has several years of experience working through trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, grief, conflict, OCD, BPD, bipolar disorder, anger, ADHD, dementia, burnout, or perinatal challenges in addition to so much more. If you're ready for a life change, we can help! Many of our clients have reached out to us for support and as a result have restored happiness & improved their quality of life.
Sometimes we just can't do it on our own. Whether you have individual, couple, or family challenges, as a professional or first responder, life is so much more fulfilling when we can reach out for support to get through the rough patch. Our team has several years of experience working through trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, grief, conflict, OCD, BPD, bipolar disorder, anger, ADHD, dementia, burnout, or perinatal challenges in addition to so much more. If you're ready for a life change, we can help! Many of our clients have reached out to us for support and as a result have restored happiness & improved their quality of life.
(289) 302-8255 View (289) 302-8255
Photo of Celine Williams-Tracey, Registered Social Worker in Belgrave, ON
Celine Williams-Tracey
Registered Social Worker, HBSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Brampton, ON L6V  (Online Only)
I specialize in trauma informed counselling, intimate partner violence, mental health(depression, anxiety and bipolar).
Are you feeling alone? Are you feeling emotionally stuck? Are you feeling as if you are coasting and not reaching your goals? Are you feeling uncertain about your life journey? Are you wanting to heal from trauma and struggles that have continued to impact your daily life? Do you feel emotionally and mentally debilitated? What are your ultimate internal life goal(s)? Awakening Counselling offers a safe and relaxing space to process and delve deep into the inner workings of the self and to ultimately achieve peace of mind. Give us a call or message us for more information.
I specialize in trauma informed counselling, intimate partner violence, mental health(depression, anxiety and bipolar).
Are you feeling alone? Are you feeling emotionally stuck? Are you feeling as if you are coasting and not reaching your goals? Are you feeling uncertain about your life journey? Are you wanting to heal from trauma and struggles that have continued to impact your daily life? Do you feel emotionally and mentally debilitated? What are your ultimate internal life goal(s)? Awakening Counselling offers a safe and relaxing space to process and delve deep into the inner workings of the self and to ultimately achieve peace of mind. Give us a call or message us for more information.
(844) 329-7484 View (844) 329-7484
Photo of Private Practice, Registered Social Worker in Belgrave, ON
Private Practice
Registered Social Worker, BAA(SW), MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scarborough, ON M1N
I work with clients 18 and over. Being motivated to change is certainly a plus but not a prerequisite as I do appreciate that change can be very difficult. I also provide highly effective supervision to clinicians of varying experience. Note: My Practice is completely virtual
I work with clients 18 and over. Being motivated to change is certainly a plus but not a prerequisite as I do appreciate that change can be very difficult. I also provide highly effective supervision to clinicians of varying experience. Note: My Practice is completely virtual
(844) 817-0148 View (844) 817-0148
Photo of Natalie Guimond, Registered Social Worker in Belgrave, ON
Natalie Guimond
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M3C
As a human being on my own healing and wellness journey, I believe we all have the capacity to heal from and grow through whatever life challenges we may be facing, have faced in the past, or will encounter in the future. But we're not meant to do it alone. As your therapist, sharing a genuine (not clinical feeling) connection is important to me. My aim is to create a warm, affirming and non-judgemental space to share, learn, grow and heal.
As a human being on my own healing and wellness journey, I believe we all have the capacity to heal from and grow through whatever life challenges we may be facing, have faced in the past, or will encounter in the future. But we're not meant to do it alone. As your therapist, sharing a genuine (not clinical feeling) connection is important to me. My aim is to create a warm, affirming and non-judgemental space to share, learn, grow and heal.
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Photo of Building Bridges Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist in Belgrave, ON
Building Bridges Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MSc, MA
Verified Verified
Guelph, ON N1H
Accepting New Clients: In-Person & Phone/Video. We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We have helped individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As relational therapists, we appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. We do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, we see our clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. We see strengths and we see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
Accepting New Clients: In-Person & Phone/Video. We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We have helped individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As relational therapists, we appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. We do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, we see our clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. We see strengths and we see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
(226) 702-8590 View (226) 702-8590
Photo of John Jacob, Registered Psychotherapist in Belgrave, ON
John Jacob
Registered Psychotherapist, MB BCh, MPS, RP
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4P
The desire for self-awareness, personal growth, and change often motivates individuals to seek out psychotherapy. Disharmony within our sense of self and others can lead us to experience thoughts, feelings, and behaviours that prevent us from living our happiest and most authentic selves. Whether it is coping with grief and loss, processing trauma, or navigating existential concerns regarding identity or purpose, self-exploration within a psychotherapeutic relationship can move us towards an increased awareness of how these dynamics operate within our lives, and forging commitments toward actions that yield meaningful change.
The desire for self-awareness, personal growth, and change often motivates individuals to seek out psychotherapy. Disharmony within our sense of self and others can lead us to experience thoughts, feelings, and behaviours that prevent us from living our happiest and most authentic selves. Whether it is coping with grief and loss, processing trauma, or navigating existential concerns regarding identity or purpose, self-exploration within a psychotherapeutic relationship can move us towards an increased awareness of how these dynamics operate within our lives, and forging commitments toward actions that yield meaningful change.
(647) 699-3163 View (647) 699-3163
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.