Photo of Nate Venema @ Psychotherapy for You, Registered Social Worker in Durham, 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 Florence Akanbi, Registered Psychotherapist in Durham, ON
Florence Akanbi
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, BSC, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Durham, ON N0G
Are you struggling with your identity? Have you been told “you are not good enough?” Do you struggle with Stress and Anxiety? I am here to help. I am a Registered and certified Psychotherapist. Intuitive, emphatic & understanding. My belief is that a good therapist is a curious, empathetic listener, compassionate and a problem solver. My goal is to help individuals, couples and families find relief from emotional distress, and help them with the building blocks to structure the lives they want. I Specialize in trauma, relationship issues, couples and family counselling, Depression, PTSD, grief and anxiety, ADHD, and Autism Spectrum.
Are you struggling with your identity? Have you been told “you are not good enough?” Do you struggle with Stress and Anxiety? I am here to help. I am a Registered and certified Psychotherapist. Intuitive, emphatic & understanding. My belief is that a good therapist is a curious, empathetic listener, compassionate and a problem solver. My goal is to help individuals, couples and families find relief from emotional distress, and help them with the building blocks to structure the lives they want. I Specialize in trauma, relationship issues, couples and family counselling, Depression, PTSD, grief and anxiety, ADHD, and Autism Spectrum.
(289) 216-6934 View (289) 216-6934
Photo of Alpana Das-Daffern, Registered Social Worker in Durham, 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 Jassi Mundi, Registered Psychotherapist in Durham, ON
Jassi Mundi
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Durham, ON N0G  (Online Only)
Need someone to talk to? Navigating today’s world can be challenging. My goal is to work collaboratively with you to help you reduce your daily struggles and optimize your quality of life. I specialize in using diverse evidence-based therapies that are best suited for your situation, personality type, and specific needs. I am passionate about working with individuals who are experiencing stress, anxiety, and depression.
Need someone to talk to? Navigating today’s world can be challenging. My goal is to work collaboratively with you to help you reduce your daily struggles and optimize your quality of life. I specialize in using diverse evidence-based therapies that are best suited for your situation, personality type, and specific needs. I am passionate about working with individuals who are experiencing stress, anxiety, and depression.
(289) 302-5994 View (289) 302-5994
Photo of Heyday Therapy Inc, Registered Psychotherapist in Durham, 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

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Hilltop Healing, Registered Social Worker in Durham, 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
Photo of Karah Marie Kirkland, Registered Social Worker in Durham, ON
Karah Marie Kirkland
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Walkerton, ON N0G
Karah Kirkland is an experienced Social Worker ( 30 yrs -BSW,. MSW.,) who has been trained in/practices: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT Couples) and other relaxation based modalities. Karah has had the privilege of working in various sectors of social work including : child welfare, developmental disabilities, ASD, children/adolescent/adult mental health, community / medical (Family Health Team) and private therapy. Karah loves to meet new clients for what she can learn from them and she loves to see clients gain insight and grow.
Karah Kirkland is an experienced Social Worker ( 30 yrs -BSW,. MSW.,) who has been trained in/practices: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT Couples) and other relaxation based modalities. Karah has had the privilege of working in various sectors of social work including : child welfare, developmental disabilities, ASD, children/adolescent/adult mental health, community / medical (Family Health Team) and private therapy. Karah loves to meet new clients for what she can learn from them and she loves to see clients gain insight and grow.
(226) 796-5675 View (226) 796-5675

Online Therapists

Photo of Celine Williams-Tracey, Registered Social Worker in Durham, 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 Marci Gray -Social Worker Emdr Psychotherapist, Registered Social Worker in Durham, 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 Caitlin Doherty, Registered Social Worker in Durham, ON
Caitlin Doherty
Registered Social Worker, RSW, BSW, MA
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6H  (Online Only)
My name is Cait (she/they) and I am a registered social worker. I work with clients from where they are at, working collaboratively to figure out what challenges you, what you want to process and learn from. I am not here to tell you what to do, but to support in figuring out next steps, skills and processing trauma and life events. I work with clients to figure out what they need, their values, their identity and their boundaries. I work extensively with clients who are neurodivergent and/or have Bipolar Disorder or Borderline Personality Disorder, although I have experience with many mental health challenges.
My name is Cait (she/they) and I am a registered social worker. I work with clients from where they are at, working collaboratively to figure out what challenges you, what you want to process and learn from. I am not here to tell you what to do, but to support in figuring out next steps, skills and processing trauma and life events. I work with clients to figure out what they need, their values, their identity and their boundaries. I work extensively with clients who are neurodivergent and/or have Bipolar Disorder or Borderline Personality Disorder, although I have experience with many mental health challenges.
(289) 806-3368 View (289) 806-3368
Photo of Henry Wong, Registered Social Worker in Durham, 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 Staci N Weingust, Registered Social Worker in Durham, ON
Staci N Weingust
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4R  (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 Alessandra Marques, Registered Social Worker in Durham, ON
Alessandra Marques
Registered Social Worker, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4C  (Online Only)
I offer psychotherapy for a range of issues including Adjustment Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder and other mental health symptoms.
Hello! I’m so glad you are here. Starting therapy is a big deal, and finding the right therapist is key. My name is Alessandra and I’m passionate about helping people who are navigating difficult life transitions. If you are felling stuck and overwhelmed about life, I would like to help. Thank you for reaching out and taking the first courageous step in your journey toward greater health.
I offer psychotherapy for a range of issues including Adjustment Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder and other mental health symptoms.
Hello! I’m so glad you are here. Starting therapy is a big deal, and finding the right therapist is key. My name is Alessandra and I’m passionate about helping people who are navigating difficult life transitions. If you are felling stuck and overwhelmed about life, I would like to help. Thank you for reaching out and taking the first courageous step in your journey toward greater health.
(647) 722-5904 View (647) 722-5904
Photo of Ashley Murphy Kilgar, Registered Social Worker, Psychotherapist in Durham, ON
Ashley Murphy Kilgar
Registered Social Worker, Psychotherapist, BA hons, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Guelph, ON N1H
I have expertise working with mental health (anxiety, depression, psychosis, bipolar, & personality disorders).
I am a caring and skilled therapist. I work with individuals, couples and families who are having difficulty coping with life stressors, addiction and mental health concerns. I support people to work through relationship, work, family and other life challenges. Using a non-judgmental approach I support you to move forward and make difficult but positive changes in your life. Each person I support is unique and will receive individualized treatment based on needs. I value in depth assessments to ensure that your situation and needs are understood. We will work together in a way that ensures your comfort and satisfaction with therapy.
I have expertise working with mental health (anxiety, depression, psychosis, bipolar, & personality disorders).
I am a caring and skilled therapist. I work with individuals, couples and families who are having difficulty coping with life stressors, addiction and mental health concerns. I support people to work through relationship, work, family and other life challenges. Using a non-judgmental approach I support you to move forward and make difficult but positive changes in your life. Each person I support is unique and will receive individualized treatment based on needs. I value in depth assessments to ensure that your situation and needs are understood. We will work together in a way that ensures your comfort and satisfaction with therapy.
(226) 962-2242 View (226) 962-2242
Photo of Evolution Counselling Services by Yamilet V Falcon, Registered Social Worker in Durham, 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 Emma Harrison, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Durham, ON
Emma Harrison
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1H
I have experience working alongside adults and adolescents navigating a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, stress, communication, boundaries, trauma-related issues, and grief.
Are you struggling to calm your mind? Do you have overwhelming feelings of sadness or hopelessness? Perhaps you are looking to understand how to navigate a mood disorder. Do you want more contentment in your life and relationships? These experiences are common for many of us, and an indicator that we need a safe and supportive space to navigate life and address our concerns. I strive to create a space that honours your inherent wisdom, skills and creativity as we explore your experience and hopes. My approach is relationally focused, strengths-based and rooted in anti-oppressive and trauma-informed frameworks.
I have experience working alongside adults and adolescents navigating a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, stress, communication, boundaries, trauma-related issues, and grief.
Are you struggling to calm your mind? Do you have overwhelming feelings of sadness or hopelessness? Perhaps you are looking to understand how to navigate a mood disorder. Do you want more contentment in your life and relationships? These experiences are common for many of us, and an indicator that we need a safe and supportive space to navigate life and address our concerns. I strive to create a space that honours your inherent wisdom, skills and creativity as we explore your experience and hopes. My approach is relationally focused, strengths-based and rooted in anti-oppressive and trauma-informed frameworks.
(226) 756-1583 View (226) 756-1583
Photo of Adriana King Aurora Therapy Neurofeedback, Registered Psychotherapist in Durham, 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 Stewart Leatherdale, Marriage & Family Therapist in Durham, ON
Stewart Leatherdale
Marriage & Family Therapist, BTh, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
London, ON N5W
We have more of an opportunity to become better individuals in relationship with a significant other than alone with shallow relationships. Relationships, Conflict, Anger, Communication, Addictions, are all issues I help people with on a daily basis. I am a Psychotherapist based in London, Ontario; as a registered Social Worker I have a wide breadth of experience in helping people with their life situations, whether it be with a partner, child, or colleague. I do this work because people have value. Everyone has a story of personal pain and my office serves individuals, couples, and families to heal from personal pain.
We have more of an opportunity to become better individuals in relationship with a significant other than alone with shallow relationships. Relationships, Conflict, Anger, Communication, Addictions, are all issues I help people with on a daily basis. I am a Psychotherapist based in London, Ontario; as a registered Social Worker I have a wide breadth of experience in helping people with their life situations, whether it be with a partner, child, or colleague. I do this work because people have value. Everyone has a story of personal pain and my office serves individuals, couples, and families to heal from personal pain.
(226) 702-2249 View (226) 702-2249
Photo of Patricia Berendsen, Registered Psychotherapist in Durham, ON
Patricia Berendsen
Registered Psychotherapist, RMFT, RSW, RP, SEP, SSE
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London, ON N6B
I seek to serve my clients in a manner which honors the whole person; body, mind and spirit. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is a process of learning and unfolding for the client as well as the therapist. My varied expertise enables me to offer specialized therapeutic tools and skills to reflect and meet the needs and uniqueness of each person.
I seek to serve my clients in a manner which honors the whole person; body, mind and spirit. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is a process of learning and unfolding for the client as well as the therapist. My varied expertise enables me to offer specialized therapeutic tools and skills to reflect and meet the needs and uniqueness of each person.
(226) 286-4884 View (226) 286-4884
Photo of Crystal Soares, Registered Social Worker in Durham, ON
Crystal Soares
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M2N  (Online Only)
Do you ever feel overwhelmed by your emotions? Or perhaps you find yourself distanced and numb from them? It's common to view them as obstacles, but what if we could shift that narrative and view these emotions as valuable guides to self-discovery? Welcome to a therapeutic journey where your emotions are not only accepted but also valued, validated, and processed in a safe and inclusive space. Whether you are experiencing an emotional overload or having difficulty connecting with your feelings, this is a place where you are not judged but understood.
Do you ever feel overwhelmed by your emotions? Or perhaps you find yourself distanced and numb from them? It's common to view them as obstacles, but what if we could shift that narrative and view these emotions as valuable guides to self-discovery? Welcome to a therapeutic journey where your emotions are not only accepted but also valued, validated, and processed in a safe and inclusive space. Whether you are experiencing an emotional overload or having difficulty connecting with your feelings, this is a place where you are not judged but understood.
(365) 602-1052 View (365) 602-1052

See more therapy options for Durham

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.