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

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of The Wellness Nurse | Tara Tourloukis in Durham, ON
The Wellness Nurse | Tara Tourloukis
MPN, RN, CNS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Walkerton, ON N0G
Hey there! If you're ready to dive into what's stressing you out, looking to build some skills and get back to feeling like yourself, you're in the right place. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed by decisions, stressed out at work, or just someone trying to unscramble life's puzzle, I'm here to listen. Let's embark on a trip through your mind's nooks and crannies, help you learn a few coping skills and set some goals along the way. No waitlist here, so have your coffee ready, and we'll get you feeling better, sooner.
Hey there! If you're ready to dive into what's stressing you out, looking to build some skills and get back to feeling like yourself, you're in the right place. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed by decisions, stressed out at work, or just someone trying to unscramble life's puzzle, I'm here to listen. Let's embark on a trip through your mind's nooks and crannies, help you learn a few coping skills and set some goals along the way. No waitlist here, so have your coffee ready, and we'll get you feeling better, sooner.
(226) 840-3244 View (226) 840-3244
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 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 Koye Oyerinde, Registered Social Worker in Durham, ON
Koye Oyerinde
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
London, ON N6H  (Online Only)
I facilitated Cognitive Behavioural Therapy treatments for Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Social and Generalized Anxiety, Panic Disorder, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorders and also facilitated Dialectical Behavioural Therapy programs for Borderline Personality Disorders.
I enjoy working with individuals, families, and couples. This might be the first time you are seeking counselling or you may be seeking for a different counselling experience, picking the right counsellor for you is important. It is important to understand how we interpret our experiences and how they affects us. Our environments also have the ability to impact the way we interpret our experiences and interactions; it can be helpful to develop an awareness of the common miscommunication we experience based on our past experiences and in challenging ourselves to take steps towards wellness.
I facilitated Cognitive Behavioural Therapy treatments for Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Social and Generalized Anxiety, Panic Disorder, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorders and also facilitated Dialectical Behavioural Therapy programs for Borderline Personality Disorders.
I enjoy working with individuals, families, and couples. This might be the first time you are seeking counselling or you may be seeking for a different counselling experience, picking the right counsellor for you is important. It is important to understand how we interpret our experiences and how they affects us. Our environments also have the ability to impact the way we interpret our experiences and interactions; it can be helpful to develop an awareness of the common miscommunication we experience based on our past experiences and in challenging ourselves to take steps towards wellness.
(226) 400-6910 View (226) 400-6910
Photo of Gray Matter Health -Brampton Psychotherapists, Registered Social Worker in Durham, 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 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 Gentlewaves Counseling and Psychotherapy in Durham, ON
Gentlewaves Counseling and Psychotherapy
RN, CPMHN, CNP(Q)
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L4L
As your certified psychiatric and mental health and nurse psychotherapist my passion is to be your supportive guide on your journey to mental well-being. Whether you are a young adult, a new or expectant mom. We can walk through your uncertainties together. Do you need a coach? Someone to talk with? Suffering with a difficult period in your life? Would you like to find that calm that you desire in your life? We can work together to manage levels of stress, anxiety or depression, Bipolar, BPD among many other illnesses.
As your certified psychiatric and mental health and nurse psychotherapist my passion is to be your supportive guide on your journey to mental well-being. Whether you are a young adult, a new or expectant mom. We can walk through your uncertainties together. Do you need a coach? Someone to talk with? Suffering with a difficult period in your life? Would you like to find that calm that you desire in your life? We can work together to manage levels of stress, anxiety or depression, Bipolar, BPD among many other illnesses.
(365) 601-6920 View (365) 601-6920
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 Stefan Morgan Dunn in Durham, ON
Stefan Morgan Dunn
MSc
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5C
My clinical expertise extends to a variety of areas including trauma, sexual abuse recovery, bipolar disorder, ADHD, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, sleep, nutrition, and interpersonal relationship issues.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges? Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, or relationship issues? Therapy can provide the support, guidance, and tools you need to navigate these difficulties and thrive. I'm Stefan, a Clinical Supervisor with over 9 years of hands-on experience in the field of mental health. My practice encompasses a wide range of age groups from preteens to seniors, and I offer therapeutic services to individuals, couples, and families alike. My clinical approach is diverse and tailored to the unique needs of each client.
My clinical expertise extends to a variety of areas including trauma, sexual abuse recovery, bipolar disorder, ADHD, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, sleep, nutrition, and interpersonal relationship issues.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges? Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, or relationship issues? Therapy can provide the support, guidance, and tools you need to navigate these difficulties and thrive. I'm Stefan, a Clinical Supervisor with over 9 years of hands-on experience in the field of mental health. My practice encompasses a wide range of age groups from preteens to seniors, and I offer therapeutic services to individuals, couples, and families alike. My clinical approach is diverse and tailored to the unique needs of each client.
(782) 201-1257 View (782) 201-1257
Photo of Noemia Cerqueira New Clients Always Welcomed!, Registered Psychotherapist in Durham, ON
Noemia Cerqueira New Clients Always Welcomed!
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M9R  (Online Only)
I have experience working with people with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and OCD and other serious mental health illnesses.
If you are looking for help with anxiety, depression, bipolar, OCD, and feeling overwhelmed I may be able to help you. I have been assisting individuals overcome mental health challenges for over 24 years and have experience working with adults My focus is on supporting you in finding the strength you have and to help you understand, and to gain a deeper understanding of what is going on. We will work together to identify your strengths and values that can shift you towards living a life with ease and a life that is more fulfilling. In me you will find a therapist who is compassionate, and empathetic to what you share with me.
I have experience working with people with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and OCD and other serious mental health illnesses.
If you are looking for help with anxiety, depression, bipolar, OCD, and feeling overwhelmed I may be able to help you. I have been assisting individuals overcome mental health challenges for over 24 years and have experience working with adults My focus is on supporting you in finding the strength you have and to help you understand, and to gain a deeper understanding of what is going on. We will work together to identify your strengths and values that can shift you towards living a life with ease and a life that is more fulfilling. In me you will find a therapist who is compassionate, and empathetic to what you share with me.
(365) 364-2724 View (365) 364-2724
Photo of Darlene Artt, Registered Psychotherapist in Durham, ON
Darlene Artt
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP, MFT, CAMFT, OAMHP
Verified Verified
Brampton, ON L6V
I am specifically trained to support Military and First Responders, trauma and post traumatic stress, and individuals and families suffering with serious mental health concerns such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and neurological issues.
I offer compassion and empathy to children, youth, individuals, couples, and families, in a non-judgmental and culturally sensitive manner, using a strengths-based, person-centred approach.
I am specifically trained to support Military and First Responders, trauma and post traumatic stress, and individuals and families suffering with serious mental health concerns such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and neurological issues.
I offer compassion and empathy to children, youth, individuals, couples, and families, in a non-judgmental and culturally sensitive manner, using a strengths-based, person-centred approach.
(833) 313-0728 View (833) 313-0728
Photo of Lilet Duivenvoorden, Registered Psychotherapist in Durham, ON
Lilet Duivenvoorden
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, RPC, MPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5C  (Online Only)
I think every person has issues from time to time in their life that may benefit from the support of a non-judgemental and non-biased opinion. I believe that I can help you work through your difficulties by helping you find solutions to those problems. It is my goal to offer you with the tools and techniques needed to attain your entire personal well-being. My approach is laid-back and simple that is often comfortable for clients. I offer individual counseling for anxiety, depression and relationship issues. Also for couple/marital relationship conflict. My life/work experience is what I can offer to my clients.
I think every person has issues from time to time in their life that may benefit from the support of a non-judgemental and non-biased opinion. I believe that I can help you work through your difficulties by helping you find solutions to those problems. It is my goal to offer you with the tools and techniques needed to attain your entire personal well-being. My approach is laid-back and simple that is often comfortable for clients. I offer individual counseling for anxiety, depression and relationship issues. Also for couple/marital relationship conflict. My life/work experience is what I can offer to my clients.
(855) 465-4593 View (855) 465-4593
Photo of Online Therapy Centre , Psychologist in Durham, ON
Online Therapy Centre
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Newmarket, ON L3X
IN-PERSON or ONLINE sessions! OTC is home to a skilled team of psychologists, psychotherapists and social workers dedicated to providing psychological assessments/evaluations and counselling treatments in a convenient and accessible online format. Our goal is to help children, individuals, couples and families improve their mental health and well-being through support from our experienced team. OTC offers a range of therapies to address a variety of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, addiction, anger management, emotion regulation, mood/behavioural disorders and more.
IN-PERSON or ONLINE sessions! OTC is home to a skilled team of psychologists, psychotherapists and social workers dedicated to providing psychological assessments/evaluations and counselling treatments in a convenient and accessible online format. Our goal is to help children, individuals, couples and families improve their mental health and well-being through support from our experienced team. OTC offers a range of therapies to address a variety of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, addiction, anger management, emotion regulation, mood/behavioural disorders and more.
(289) 723-1654 View (289) 723-1654
Photo of Trauma And Grief Specialist Kathy Dahmer, Registered Psychotherapist in Durham, ON
Trauma And Grief Specialist Kathy Dahmer
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London, ON N5W  (Online Only)
Life after trauma can be hard. Really really hard. You never quite go back to feeling like yourself. You experience the world differently- people, places and things can trigger feelings of unsafety. You may be feeling numb, detached or out of body. Other times, you can feel irritable and snap easily. Trauma will impact your ability to trust yourself & those around you. Maybe it's beginning to impact your relationships with yourself and/or others. Sometimes you’ve been living in survival mode for so long that you begin to feel hopeless. Unhealed trauma commonly manifests in the body chronically.
Life after trauma can be hard. Really really hard. You never quite go back to feeling like yourself. You experience the world differently- people, places and things can trigger feelings of unsafety. You may be feeling numb, detached or out of body. Other times, you can feel irritable and snap easily. Trauma will impact your ability to trust yourself & those around you. Maybe it's beginning to impact your relationships with yourself and/or others. Sometimes you’ve been living in survival mode for so long that you begin to feel hopeless. Unhealed trauma commonly manifests in the body chronically.
(249) 702-1622 View (249) 702-1622
Photo of Nadine Bilawski, Registered Psychotherapist in Durham, ON
Nadine Bilawski
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
London, ON N6M
Do you want to see changes in your life, but don't know what to do next? Do the same issues or patterns come up for you again and again? As we go through life, we face challenges that can impact us and our personal growth going forward. Sometimes the things we have been doing in the past to cope and get by don't seem to work anymore, or don't have the same effect as they did before. We need to find new ways of thinking and behaving to readjust, cope, and heal from the past so we can manage the challenges ahead of us. Let’s team up together to take control of your story and make the changes you would like to see in your life.
Do you want to see changes in your life, but don't know what to do next? Do the same issues or patterns come up for you again and again? As we go through life, we face challenges that can impact us and our personal growth going forward. Sometimes the things we have been doing in the past to cope and get by don't seem to work anymore, or don't have the same effect as they did before. We need to find new ways of thinking and behaving to readjust, cope, and heal from the past so we can manage the challenges ahead of us. Let’s team up together to take control of your story and make the changes you would like to see in your life.
(226) 212-7205 View (226) 212-7205
Photo of Building Bridges Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist in Durham, ON
Building Bridges Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5R
We are a diverse team of over 40 licensed and experienced therapists! We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We help 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 heads that need 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.
We are a diverse team of over 40 licensed and experienced therapists! We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We help 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 heads that need 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.
(437) 747-5668 View (437) 747-5668
Photo of Danny Seto, Registered Psychotherapist in Durham, ON
Danny Seto
Registered Psychotherapist, MPsy, MDiv, BEd, BA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Richmond Hill, ON L4S
I am a patient, empathetic, and understanding individual who will work with you on any presenting concerns. My approach surrounds a person-centered approach. I pull from a variety of interventions to suit your unique needs. Congratulations on taking the first step in seeking therapy to work through your concerns that will enable you to increase your wellbeing and satisfaction in life. My name is Danny Seto and I am a Registered Psychotherapist, Registered Marriage & Family Therapist and Approved Supervisor, Certified Couples and Family Therapist, and Certified Play Therapist & Supervisor as well as a Certified EMDR Therapist.
I am a patient, empathetic, and understanding individual who will work with you on any presenting concerns. My approach surrounds a person-centered approach. I pull from a variety of interventions to suit your unique needs. Congratulations on taking the first step in seeking therapy to work through your concerns that will enable you to increase your wellbeing and satisfaction in life. My name is Danny Seto and I am a Registered Psychotherapist, Registered Marriage & Family Therapist and Approved Supervisor, Certified Couples and Family Therapist, and Certified Play Therapist & Supervisor as well as a Certified EMDR Therapist.
(289) 204-6307 View (289) 204-6307
Photo of Melissa Roberts, Registered Psychotherapist in Durham, ON
Melissa Roberts
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L5R
I'm a registered psychotherapist with a specialization in forensic populations. I started my counselling career in Youth Justice working with at-risk youth, youth on probation, and youth in custody. After a number of years, I transitioned and continue to work at a Children Community Mental Health agency where I'm a clinical manager overseeing a number of children’s mental health programs and a large team of Psychotherapists, social workers, and other allied health professionals. I now work in private practice and am particularly passionate about working with children, youth, and adults dealing with the challenges of parenting.
I'm a registered psychotherapist with a specialization in forensic populations. I started my counselling career in Youth Justice working with at-risk youth, youth on probation, and youth in custody. After a number of years, I transitioned and continue to work at a Children Community Mental Health agency where I'm a clinical manager overseeing a number of children’s mental health programs and a large team of Psychotherapists, social workers, and other allied health professionals. I now work in private practice and am particularly passionate about working with children, youth, and adults dealing with the challenges of parenting.
(289) 273-8010 View (289) 273-8010
Photo of Present Mind, Registered Psychotherapist in Durham, ON
Present Mind
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4T
We provide compassionate and holistic mental health care for adults, adolescents, and children. Our approach recognizes the whole person, mind and body. We specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, stress, and relationship issues.
We provide compassionate and holistic mental health care for adults, adolescents, and children. Our approach recognizes the whole person, mind and body. We specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, stress, and relationship issues.
(437) 747-5331 View (437) 747-5331

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.