Photo of Krista Gatti @ Psychotherapy for You, Registered Social Worker in Cobourg, ON
Krista Gatti @ Psychotherapy for You
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cobourg, ON K9A  (Online Only)
I am a registered social Worker and Psychotherapist in Ontario. I am also a member of Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. I obtained my bachelor of Social Work from the University of Manitoba and obtained my Masters of Social Work from the University of Windsor. I have a certificate in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT). I also have a certificate in Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapy and Brian Spotting. I started my career by providing support to individuals who were struggling with life challenges. I have experience working with a variety of areas such as anxiety, depression, grief, separation, and sel
I am a registered social Worker and Psychotherapist in Ontario. I am also a member of Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. I obtained my bachelor of Social Work from the University of Manitoba and obtained my Masters of Social Work from the University of Windsor. I have a certificate in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT). I also have a certificate in Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapy and Brian Spotting. I started my career by providing support to individuals who were struggling with life challenges. I have experience working with a variety of areas such as anxiety, depression, grief, separation, and sel
(343) 307-4960 View (343) 307-4960
Photo of Soulscape Services: Psychotherapy & Wellness Hub, Registered Psychotherapist in Cobourg, ON
Soulscape Services: Psychotherapy & Wellness Hub
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, BA, RP
Verified Verified
Cobourg, ON K9A
Life is nothing short of amazing. It's amazing how much we can go through and live to tell about it. It's amazing how fast kids grow up and time flies, how angry a co-worker can make you, how much compassion we can seem to have for others when we struggle to offer any to ourselves. It's amazing how much we put on our plates when all we need is to rest. It's amazing how much we can long for understanding and connection and how much opportunity can be missed right in front of our eyes. It's amazing how short life is. It's also amazing how much we can learn in the time we have, and how little steps can amount to such massive change.
Life is nothing short of amazing. It's amazing how much we can go through and live to tell about it. It's amazing how fast kids grow up and time flies, how angry a co-worker can make you, how much compassion we can seem to have for others when we struggle to offer any to ourselves. It's amazing how much we put on our plates when all we need is to rest. It's amazing how much we can long for understanding and connection and how much opportunity can be missed right in front of our eyes. It's amazing how short life is. It's also amazing how much we can learn in the time we have, and how little steps can amount to such massive change.
(249) 503-3874 View (249) 503-3874
Photo of Felisa Shizgal, Registered Psychotherapist in Cobourg, ON
Felisa Shizgal
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP
Verified Verified
Cobourg, ON K9A
Waitlist for new clients
As a Registered Psychotherapist, working with adults of all ages, I specialize in the treatment of trauma. I provide a warm and empathic space to help you feel less alone when dealing with overwhelming issues such as: depression, anxiety, anger, relationship difficulties, addictions, and emotional volatility. I offer a space in which you can learn to feel safer and more hopeful in the world, as together we explore ways of reaching your full potential: in life, work, and your relationship to yourself and others. I am an experienced and empathic therapist and I will collaborate with you to tailor therapy to meet your individual needs.
As a Registered Psychotherapist, working with adults of all ages, I specialize in the treatment of trauma. I provide a warm and empathic space to help you feel less alone when dealing with overwhelming issues such as: depression, anxiety, anger, relationship difficulties, addictions, and emotional volatility. I offer a space in which you can learn to feel safer and more hopeful in the world, as together we explore ways of reaching your full potential: in life, work, and your relationship to yourself and others. I am an experienced and empathic therapist and I will collaborate with you to tailor therapy to meet your individual needs.
(647) 930-4478 View (647) 930-4478
Photo of The Dot Canada, Registered Psychotherapist in Cobourg, ON
The Dot Canada
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, RSW, CCPA
Verified Verified
Cobourg, ON K9A  (Online Only)
It's not just you, life HAS gotten harder in the last few years. If you've been powering through, staying strong and carrying on, but now you're barely getting by and you're tired of feeling like you're not really living your life, it might be time for outside support. The benefit of therapy is that it's a time where you get to focus on yourself, to look at your life, and to get an outside perspective on how it could be different. You don't have to just endure, with the right support, you can heal from the past, and move forward towards a better future.
It's not just you, life HAS gotten harder in the last few years. If you've been powering through, staying strong and carrying on, but now you're barely getting by and you're tired of feeling like you're not really living your life, it might be time for outside support. The benefit of therapy is that it's a time where you get to focus on yourself, to look at your life, and to get an outside perspective on how it could be different. You don't have to just endure, with the right support, you can heal from the past, and move forward towards a better future.
(289) 272-7337 View (289) 272-7337
Photo of Darlene Peel, Registered Psychotherapist in Cobourg, ON
Darlene Peel
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Cobourg, ON K9A
My work with individuals and families began over twenty-five years ago. I have a Master of Divinity degree from Tyndale Seminary, Toronto, where I majored in Individual, Couple, and Family Therapy. In addition to being a therapist, I am also a certified teacher in Ontario with a Specialist in Special Education. As a professional counsellor I have helped people with: loss and grief, couple conflict and communication, stress management, addiction, mood and anxiety disorders, parenting, family dynamics, trauma and abuse, life transitions, and self-esteem. An area of interest is working with families who have children with developmental differences.
My work with individuals and families began over twenty-five years ago. I have a Master of Divinity degree from Tyndale Seminary, Toronto, where I majored in Individual, Couple, and Family Therapy. In addition to being a therapist, I am also a certified teacher in Ontario with a Specialist in Special Education. As a professional counsellor I have helped people with: loss and grief, couple conflict and communication, stress management, addiction, mood and anxiety disorders, parenting, family dynamics, trauma and abuse, life transitions, and self-esteem. An area of interest is working with families who have children with developmental differences.
(289) 806-3250 View (289) 806-3250
Photo of Psychological & Counselling Services Group, Psychologist in Cobourg, ON
Psychological & Counselling Services Group
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Cobourg, ON K9A
We provide individual psychotherapy, couple therapy, family therapy, sex therapy, psychological and vocational assessment and psycho-educational assessment and intervention. We can help you and your family cope with and overcome life challenges, relationship conflicts, traumas, and mental health concerns. Our services are provided by registered psychologists, registered psychotherapists and experienced masters/doctoral clinicians under supervision.
We provide individual psychotherapy, couple therapy, family therapy, sex therapy, psychological and vocational assessment and psycho-educational assessment and intervention. We can help you and your family cope with and overcome life challenges, relationship conflicts, traumas, and mental health concerns. Our services are provided by registered psychologists, registered psychotherapists and experienced masters/doctoral clinicians under supervision.
(289) 207-6734 View (289) 207-6734

Online Therapists

Photo of Suzanne Doupe, Registered Psychotherapist in Cobourg, ON
Suzanne Doupe
Registered Psychotherapist, RegPsy, BA, RYT200
Verified Verified
Lindsay, ON K9V
Suzanne works with adults, teens and preteens in her private practice with offices in Lindsay and Port Perry. Relationship counselling and family counselling as well as individual counselling are available. Suzanne explores the issues that are positively and negatively effecting life and relationships. Some have diagnosed concerns such as anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, depression, while others require tools to facilitate communication and sort out life choices and directions. Counselling is about helping people to know themselves better. To make clear and conscious choices that make for a productive, healthy life.
Suzanne works with adults, teens and preteens in her private practice with offices in Lindsay and Port Perry. Relationship counselling and family counselling as well as individual counselling are available. Suzanne explores the issues that are positively and negatively effecting life and relationships. Some have diagnosed concerns such as anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, depression, while others require tools to facilitate communication and sort out life choices and directions. Counselling is about helping people to know themselves better. To make clear and conscious choices that make for a productive, healthy life.
(855) 742-2453 View (855) 742-2453
Photo of Adriana King Aurora Therapy Neurofeedback, Registered Psychotherapist in Cobourg, ON
Adriana King Aurora Therapy Neurofeedback
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, CTIC, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Aurora, ON L4G
I am a passionate therapist dedicated working with clients who have experienced childhood-developmental trauma, relational trauma, intimate partner abuse, bullying, or PTSD. Clients that experience traumatic events tend to struggle with on-going anxiety and depression, relationship issues, become labelled as bipolar and experience borderline personality disorder. Do you struggle with eating disorders, addictions, self-harming behaviours & suicided ideation? Have you tried talk-therapy but achieved suboptimal results, and are looking for alternative treatment to avoid relying on medication alone? Let's explore clinical Neurofeedback!
I am a passionate therapist dedicated working with clients who have experienced childhood-developmental trauma, relational trauma, intimate partner abuse, bullying, or PTSD. Clients that experience traumatic events tend to struggle with on-going anxiety and depression, relationship issues, become labelled as bipolar and experience borderline personality disorder. Do you struggle with eating disorders, addictions, self-harming behaviours & suicided ideation? Have you tried talk-therapy but achieved suboptimal results, and are looking for alternative treatment to avoid relying on medication alone? Let's explore clinical Neurofeedback!
(289) 236-0191 View (289) 236-0191
Photo of Staci N Weingust, Registered Social Worker in Cobourg, ON
Staci N Weingust
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oshawa, ON L1G  (Online Only)
I have over 25 years of experience in the field of Healthcare, with extensive experience working with clients with mental health issues, addiction issues, and court-related issues. During this time, I have worked with individuals of varying ages, couples, families and groups. I see people with a varied range of issues including mood disorders (depression, anxiety, bipolar), trauma, borderline personality, issues of psychosis, phobias, obsessive compulsive behaviours, eating disorders, dual diagnosis, sexual issues, conduct disorder, anger issues and behavioural concerns.
I have over 25 years of experience in the field of Healthcare, with extensive experience working with clients with mental health issues, addiction issues, and court-related issues. During this time, I have worked with individuals of varying ages, couples, families and groups. I see people with a varied range of issues including mood disorders (depression, anxiety, bipolar), trauma, borderline personality, issues of psychosis, phobias, obsessive compulsive behaviours, eating disorders, dual diagnosis, sexual issues, conduct disorder, anger issues and behavioural concerns.
(647) 371-0849 View (647) 371-0849
Photo of Adam Law, Registered Psychotherapist in Cobourg, ON
Adam Law
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, BCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6B
I also work with family conflict, aging and death, and bipolar and personality disorders.
Do you feel like your thoughts and feelings are closing in on you? Having trouble seeing past your problems? Life can bring suffering, but you don't have to do it alone. Experience expertise and care to guide you to your well-being and purpose. Cross-certified as both a psychotherapist and specialist in spiritual care, I have a multifaceted approach which combines therapy and behavioral coaching. There is hope and meaning to be found after difficult changes. Benefit from my gentle but powerful approach that has helped hundreds of people find peace and real growth. Life is meant to be lived, and you have infinite possibilities.
I also work with family conflict, aging and death, and bipolar and personality disorders.
Do you feel like your thoughts and feelings are closing in on you? Having trouble seeing past your problems? Life can bring suffering, but you don't have to do it alone. Experience expertise and care to guide you to your well-being and purpose. Cross-certified as both a psychotherapist and specialist in spiritual care, I have a multifaceted approach which combines therapy and behavioral coaching. There is hope and meaning to be found after difficult changes. Benefit from my gentle but powerful approach that has helped hundreds of people find peace and real growth. Life is meant to be lived, and you have infinite possibilities.
(647) 931-3936 View (647) 931-3936
Photo of Evolution Counselling Services by Yamilet V Falcon, Registered Social Worker in Cobourg, ON
Evolution Counselling Services by Yamilet V Falcon
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4N
I am the Founder of Evolution Counselling Services. I have extensive work experience in the mental health field as a Clinical Lead, Program Manager and Mental Health Counsellor for almost 10 years. My knowledge and expertise extends to and with individuals suffering from diverse mental health diagnosis (Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, Eating Disorders, and experiences of Loss, Grief and Trauma) among others. At Evolution Counselling, I seek to empower individuals to achieve internal and external wellness.
I am the Founder of Evolution Counselling Services. I have extensive work experience in the mental health field as a Clinical Lead, Program Manager and Mental Health Counsellor for almost 10 years. My knowledge and expertise extends to and with individuals suffering from diverse mental health diagnosis (Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, Eating Disorders, and experiences of Loss, Grief and Trauma) among others. At Evolution Counselling, I seek to empower individuals to achieve internal and external wellness.
(249) 487-0479 View (249) 487-0479
Photo of Celine Williams-Tracey, Registered Social Worker in Cobourg, 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 Ontario Psychotherapy: Trauma and Grief Therapist, Registered Social Worker in Cobourg, ON
Ontario Psychotherapy: Trauma and Grief Therapist
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Markham, ON L6B  (Online Only)
My areas of practice include emotion dysregulation (BPD and bipolar disorder), depression and anxiety, and grief and loss.
Are you perpetually in fight or flight or shut down mode? Do your emotions feel out of control? Easily triggered? I'm Rachelle and I’m the face behind OPS, an online therapy practice. I specialize in nervous system stabilization. I work with those who have experienced trauma to process its emotional and the physical effects. My practice incorporates a focus on the mind-body connection, which most clients say was the missing piece in previous therapy. The body goes through just as much as the mind; effective therapy involves paying close attention to the body and developing nervous system resiliency.
My areas of practice include emotion dysregulation (BPD and bipolar disorder), depression and anxiety, and grief and loss.
Are you perpetually in fight or flight or shut down mode? Do your emotions feel out of control? Easily triggered? I'm Rachelle and I’m the face behind OPS, an online therapy practice. I specialize in nervous system stabilization. I work with those who have experienced trauma to process its emotional and the physical effects. My practice incorporates a focus on the mind-body connection, which most clients say was the missing piece in previous therapy. The body goes through just as much as the mind; effective therapy involves paying close attention to the body and developing nervous system resiliency.
(289) 806-5137 View (289) 806-5137
Photo of Marci Gray -Social Worker Emdr Psychotherapist, Registered Social Worker in Cobourg, 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 Henry Wong, Registered Social Worker in Cobourg, 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 Completely You Counselling & Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist in Cobourg, ON
Completely You Counselling & Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7P
Specializing in depression, bipolar disorder, and loss and transition.
Compassionate therapy to support you through life's biggest challenges. With you at the center; to hear your unique needs and goals, to support your transition with a variety of evidence-based approaches and tools to best meet your needs as you journey from hardship to live your fullest life. Allowing a space of warmth and acceptance to appreciate all the sides of you, to allow for greater awareness of the most difficult transitions and your needs at present, along with gentle questioning to allow for greater self-discovery to make sense of your journey and allow for greater acceptance to find your best way forward.
Specializing in depression, bipolar disorder, and loss and transition.
Compassionate therapy to support you through life's biggest challenges. With you at the center; to hear your unique needs and goals, to support your transition with a variety of evidence-based approaches and tools to best meet your needs as you journey from hardship to live your fullest life. Allowing a space of warmth and acceptance to appreciate all the sides of you, to allow for greater awareness of the most difficult transitions and your needs at present, along with gentle questioning to allow for greater self-discovery to make sense of your journey and allow for greater acceptance to find your best way forward.
(343) 304-6146 View (343) 304-6146
Photo of Shannon Robinson And Associates, Psychologist in Cobourg, ON
Shannon Robinson And Associates
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L4K  (Online Only)
We specialize in treating depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, shyness/self-esteem issues, perfectionism, prenatal/ postpartum disorders, eating disorders/body image concerns, self-harming behavior, interpersonal difficulties, parenting issues, and personality disorders.
We are a group of registered mental health professionals including a psychologist, social worker, and psychotherapist. Our priority is to provide clients with a safe and confidential space to better understand themselves and work through challenges. We offer evidence-based treatments including Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness and Compassion based therapies, Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) & Prolonged Exposure (PE).
We specialize in treating depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, shyness/self-esteem issues, perfectionism, prenatal/ postpartum disorders, eating disorders/body image concerns, self-harming behavior, interpersonal difficulties, parenting issues, and personality disorders.
We are a group of registered mental health professionals including a psychologist, social worker, and psychotherapist. Our priority is to provide clients with a safe and confidential space to better understand themselves and work through challenges. We offer evidence-based treatments including Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness and Compassion based therapies, Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) & Prolonged Exposure (PE).
(647) 931-5010 View (647) 931-5010
Photo of Robyn Schachter, Registered Psychotherapist in Cobourg, ON
Robyn Schachter
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, CHyp, CT, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newmarket, ON L3Y
My therapeutic approach is to create inner harmony between your thoughts and emotions. I do this by creating integrative therapeutic experiences utilizing evidence based therapies such as CBT, DBT, Clinical Hypnosis, Brief Solution Based Counselling along with cutting edge holistic methods of mindfulness and client centered psychotherapy. Incorporating these cognitive therapies with the mind and body allows for a unique experience where you can heal from past trauma and move forward with new enthusiasm and excitement.
My therapeutic approach is to create inner harmony between your thoughts and emotions. I do this by creating integrative therapeutic experiences utilizing evidence based therapies such as CBT, DBT, Clinical Hypnosis, Brief Solution Based Counselling along with cutting edge holistic methods of mindfulness and client centered psychotherapy. Incorporating these cognitive therapies with the mind and body allows for a unique experience where you can heal from past trauma and move forward with new enthusiasm and excitement.
(855) 873-4443 View (855) 873-4443
Photo of Sun Jin (Jinny) Kim, Registered Social Worker in Cobourg, ON
Sun Jin (Jinny) Kim
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4K
Life is full of ups and downs. We face challenges everyday and frequently feel overwhelmed by our emotions. We have many wounds inside us that need to be healed from the past. Although it seems painful to look at those wounds, they can be healed by exploring our inner world and emotions.
Life is full of ups and downs. We face challenges everyday and frequently feel overwhelmed by our emotions. We have many wounds inside us that need to be healed from the past. Although it seems painful to look at those wounds, they can be healed by exploring our inner world and emotions.
(647) 492-2471 View (647) 492-2471
Photo of Shabana B, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Cobourg, ON
Shabana B
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond Hill, ON L4B
I received her undergraduate degree in Health Science and later graduated with her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counselling. I am currently a professional member of the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA) and a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO). During my internship, I worked with teens, adults, and couples.
I received her undergraduate degree in Health Science and later graduated with her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counselling. I am currently a professional member of the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA) and a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO). During my internship, I worked with teens, adults, and couples.
(289) 236-0761 View (289) 236-0761

See more therapy options for Cobourg

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.