Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Flesherton, ON

Photo of At Home Counselling, Registered Social Service Worker in Flesherton, ON
At Home Counselling
Registered Social Service Worker, MEd, RSSW
Verified Verified
Flesherton, ON N0C
Counselling and Hypnosis. Home visits, walk-and-talk, phone or online video call sessions. Individual and Groups. Quickly reduce anxiety, manage emotions, build joy, find peace. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Experiential therapy. Also offering therapy to therapists.
Counselling and Hypnosis. Home visits, walk-and-talk, phone or online video call sessions. Individual and Groups. Quickly reduce anxiety, manage emotions, build joy, find peace. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Experiential therapy. Also offering therapy to therapists.
(226) 401-8649 View (226) 401-8649

Online Therapists

Photo of Kamy Bhatti, Registered Social Worker in Flesherton, ON
Kamy Bhatti
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L5M  (Online Only)
Welcome to Coastal Therapy, where your journey to healing and growth begins. I'm here to support you in finding resilience and happiness through compassionate therapy. My experience includes working in diverse therapeutic settings with individuals living with various mental health diagnosis such as depression, anxiety, bipolar and personally disorders and many more. Additionally, I have worked at the Women’s Mental Health Clinic alongside psychiatrists focusing on perinatal & postpartum depression providing one-on-one therapy as well as facilitating group-based therapy.
Welcome to Coastal Therapy, where your journey to healing and growth begins. I'm here to support you in finding resilience and happiness through compassionate therapy. My experience includes working in diverse therapeutic settings with individuals living with various mental health diagnosis such as depression, anxiety, bipolar and personally disorders and many more. Additionally, I have worked at the Women’s Mental Health Clinic alongside psychiatrists focusing on perinatal & postpartum depression providing one-on-one therapy as well as facilitating group-based therapy.
(289) 802-2194 View (289) 802-2194
Photo of Devina Daya, Psychologist in Flesherton, ON
Devina Daya
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4R
My areas of expertise include the treatment of depression, anxiety (e.g social anxiety, panic, agoraphobia, health anxiety, phobias), obsessive-compulsive disorder and related disorders (e.g. body dysmorphia, trichotillomania), bipolar disorder, trauma, interpersonal and relationship difficulties, grief and loss, acculturation stress and difficult life transitions. I work towards helping you cope with difficult thoughts, intense emotions and unhelpful behaviours, along with strengthening your interpersonal functioning. My approaches include cognitive, behavioural, mindfulness, interpersonal and attachment-focused therapies.
My areas of expertise include the treatment of depression, anxiety (e.g social anxiety, panic, agoraphobia, health anxiety, phobias), obsessive-compulsive disorder and related disorders (e.g. body dysmorphia, trichotillomania), bipolar disorder, trauma, interpersonal and relationship difficulties, grief and loss, acculturation stress and difficult life transitions. I work towards helping you cope with difficult thoughts, intense emotions and unhelpful behaviours, along with strengthening your interpersonal functioning. My approaches include cognitive, behavioural, mindfulness, interpersonal and attachment-focused therapies.
(437) 747-8713 View (437) 747-8713
Photo of Grace MacAskill, Registered Psychotherapist in Flesherton, ON
Grace MacAskill
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MSc, BA Hons
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8H
Thank you for taking this first step to take care of yourself. Seeking support is not easy when you’re feeling low. In my work I aim to empower you to make the changes that you want to see in your life, and to create a space where you feel safe to explore what's important to you and what you need to move forward. My approach to therapy is person-centered, empathetic, and collaborative. I have experience working with people with depression, anxiety, psychosis, and bipolar disorder. I can also help if you are feeling unsatisfied with life, are unmotivated, or are struggling with self-compassion or with finding balance in your life.
Thank you for taking this first step to take care of yourself. Seeking support is not easy when you’re feeling low. In my work I aim to empower you to make the changes that you want to see in your life, and to create a space where you feel safe to explore what's important to you and what you need to move forward. My approach to therapy is person-centered, empathetic, and collaborative. I have experience working with people with depression, anxiety, psychosis, and bipolar disorder. I can also help if you are feeling unsatisfied with life, are unmotivated, or are struggling with self-compassion or with finding balance in your life.
(365) 661-4620 View (365) 661-4620
Photo of Jenna Cripps (Supervised Practice), Psychologist under supervised practice in Flesherton, ON
Jenna Cripps (Supervised Practice)
Psychologist under supervised practice, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L5N
, generalized anxiety, specific phobias, social anxiety, panic disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, sleep problems, trauma and stress.
Dr. Jenna Cripps (she/her) is a Psychologist in Supervised Practice. She earned her Ph.D. in Clinical and Counselling Psychology at the University of Toronto, where she also completed her Master’s degree. Dr. Cripps’ primary theoretical orientation is cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) but she also integrates mindfulness-based interventions and acceptance and commitment therapy when appropriate. Treatment plans and goals are determined collaboratively and are tailored to each individual’s unique needs.
, generalized anxiety, specific phobias, social anxiety, panic disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, sleep problems, trauma and stress.
Dr. Jenna Cripps (she/her) is a Psychologist in Supervised Practice. She earned her Ph.D. in Clinical and Counselling Psychology at the University of Toronto, where she also completed her Master’s degree. Dr. Cripps’ primary theoretical orientation is cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) but she also integrates mindfulness-based interventions and acceptance and commitment therapy when appropriate. Treatment plans and goals are determined collaboratively and are tailored to each individual’s unique needs.
(289) 514-5601 View (289) 514-5601
Photo of Suzanne Doupe, Registered Psychotherapist in Flesherton, 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 Kari Gulin, Registered Social Worker in Flesherton, ON
Kari Gulin
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aurora, ON L4G
With over 10 years of experience, I have provided therapy to youth and adults. I have extensive experience supporting individuals with OCD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, and Borderline Personality Disorder. I am trained in DBT and CBT, and work from a person-centered trauma informed approach. My services are culturally sensitive and inclusive. I aim to make therapy a comfortable and relaxed experience, through my warm and compassionate approach.
With over 10 years of experience, I have provided therapy to youth and adults. I have extensive experience supporting individuals with OCD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, and Borderline Personality Disorder. I am trained in DBT and CBT, and work from a person-centered trauma informed approach. My services are culturally sensitive and inclusive. I aim to make therapy a comfortable and relaxed experience, through my warm and compassionate approach.
(289) 273-7944 View (289) 273-7944
Photo of Adrian Daniels, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Flesherton, ON
Adrian Daniels
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MEd, HBSc
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4K
Hello! My name is Adrian and I am passionate about delivering affordable quality psychotherapy to underserved and vulnerable communities. I have over 10 years of counselling and peer support experience. Additionally, I have 15 years of practice and training in applied mindfulness and compassion cultivation. I have a wealth of experience working within the private mental healthcare sector, as well as working with community-based organizations. I specialize in working with bipolar disorder, other mood and anxiety disorders, sexual and gender diversity issues, sex addiction, as well as with intersex folks, HIV+ folks, sex workers.
Hello! My name is Adrian and I am passionate about delivering affordable quality psychotherapy to underserved and vulnerable communities. I have over 10 years of counselling and peer support experience. Additionally, I have 15 years of practice and training in applied mindfulness and compassion cultivation. I have a wealth of experience working within the private mental healthcare sector, as well as working with community-based organizations. I specialize in working with bipolar disorder, other mood and anxiety disorders, sexual and gender diversity issues, sex addiction, as well as with intersex folks, HIV+ folks, sex workers.
(647) 955-2768 View (647) 955-2768
Photo of Noor Alassadi in Flesherton, ON
Noor Alassadi
PhD, MS, OAMHP, CBT, OACYC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M2N
Here is the best place to find your inner strength. Yes, I help you to heal from your pain, your grief, or sadness. But also, I am here to help you move forward and repair yourself so you are stronger than you used to be! I have experience in working with different mental health concerns including abuse, bullying, ADHD, ADD, ASD, OCD, anxiety, conduct disorder, bipolar, schizophrenia, academic/intellectual limitations, emotional disorders, suicidal ideation, panic attacks, depression, emotional eating, cultural shock, immigration challenges, diversity, and trauma/PTSD.
Here is the best place to find your inner strength. Yes, I help you to heal from your pain, your grief, or sadness. But also, I am here to help you move forward and repair yourself so you are stronger than you used to be! I have experience in working with different mental health concerns including abuse, bullying, ADHD, ADD, ASD, OCD, anxiety, conduct disorder, bipolar, schizophrenia, academic/intellectual limitations, emotional disorders, suicidal ideation, panic attacks, depression, emotional eating, cultural shock, immigration challenges, diversity, and trauma/PTSD.
(289) 302-7077 View (289) 302-7077
Photo of Maram Khalif, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Flesherton, ON
Maram Khalif
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
Scarborough, ON M1L  (Online Only)
I work with couples, individuals, lgbtq2s+, neuro-diversity, and transgender/non-binary individuals as well as having/had diagnosis of schizophrenia, bipolar, BPD & NPD.
If you're navigating relationship challenges, exploring self-identity including gender and sexuality, or facing societal limitations, I'm here to support you. My approach is warm, empathetic, and accepting, creating a safe space for you to dream, grow, and heal. Together, we'll address trauma, past injustices, and explore themes of personal power and healthy assertiveness in your life and relationships. Let's collaborate to embrace your full potential.
I work with couples, individuals, lgbtq2s+, neuro-diversity, and transgender/non-binary individuals as well as having/had diagnosis of schizophrenia, bipolar, BPD & NPD.
If you're navigating relationship challenges, exploring self-identity including gender and sexuality, or facing societal limitations, I'm here to support you. My approach is warm, empathetic, and accepting, creating a safe space for you to dream, grow, and heal. Together, we'll address trauma, past injustices, and explore themes of personal power and healthy assertiveness in your life and relationships. Let's collaborate to embrace your full potential.
(647) 691-4344 View (647) 691-4344
Photo of Better Self - Psychotherapy & Counselling, Registered Psychotherapist in Flesherton, ON
Better Self - Psychotherapy & Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist, MC
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M2N  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Stuck? Depressed? Anxious? Are you struggling with bipolar disorder or relationship difficulties? Whatever is causing your pain, together we can identify the cause and work for positive change. Together, we can uncover the patterns of thoughts and behaviours that are holding you back. We can replace despair with hope, self-doubt with self-esteem, and sadness with joy. We can help you discover your better self.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Stuck? Depressed? Anxious? Are you struggling with bipolar disorder or relationship difficulties? Whatever is causing your pain, together we can identify the cause and work for positive change. Together, we can uncover the patterns of thoughts and behaviours that are holding you back. We can replace despair with hope, self-doubt with self-esteem, and sadness with joy. We can help you discover your better self.
(647) 931-6085 View (647) 931-6085
Photo of Ashlyn Fisher, Registered Social Worker in Flesherton, ON
Ashlyn Fisher
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5V
Ashlyn Fisher completed her undergraduate degree in Psychology and obtained her Masters of Social Work degree from The University of Toronto. Ashlyn began her clinical practice working with individuals of all ages and backgrounds suffering from eating disorders and co-occurring mental health issues. During Ashlyn's internships, she acquired additional clinical experience providing one on one counselling to adults suffering from addictions and severe mental illnesses such as bipolar affective disorder, schizophrenia, and extreme depression and anxiety. Additionally, Ashlyn worked as a child and family therapist at the SickKids Centre for Community Mental Health where her focus was on assessment and intervention.
Ashlyn Fisher completed her undergraduate degree in Psychology and obtained her Masters of Social Work degree from The University of Toronto. Ashlyn began her clinical practice working with individuals of all ages and backgrounds suffering from eating disorders and co-occurring mental health issues. During Ashlyn's internships, she acquired additional clinical experience providing one on one counselling to adults suffering from addictions and severe mental illnesses such as bipolar affective disorder, schizophrenia, and extreme depression and anxiety. Additionally, Ashlyn worked as a child and family therapist at the SickKids Centre for Community Mental Health where her focus was on assessment and intervention.
(844) 280-2462 x356 View (844) 280-2462 x356
Photo of Shankari Sharma, Psychological Associate in Flesherton, ON
Shankari Sharma
Psychological Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4S
At the Therapy Centre, Shankari provides individual, couple, and family therapy for adults. Her areas of interest and proficiency include diagnostic assessment and treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depressive and bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, relationship difficulties, assertiveness, stress and burnout, anger management, and personality disorders. She has a particular interest in the treatment of PTSD, trauma- and stressor-related disorders, and the variety of individual and interpersonal sequelae of traumatic experiences.
At the Therapy Centre, Shankari provides individual, couple, and family therapy for adults. Her areas of interest and proficiency include diagnostic assessment and treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depressive and bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, relationship difficulties, assertiveness, stress and burnout, anger management, and personality disorders. She has a particular interest in the treatment of PTSD, trauma- and stressor-related disorders, and the variety of individual and interpersonal sequelae of traumatic experiences.
(289) 797-2827 View (289) 797-2827
Photo of Koye Oyerinde, Registered Social Worker in Flesherton, 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 Emma Harrison, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Flesherton, 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 Dr. Joyce Zhu - Centre For Psychology And Emotional Health, Psychologist in Flesherton, ON
Dr. Joyce Zhu - Centre For Psychology And Emotional Health
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5R  (Online Only)
Dr. Zhu has experience treating adults experiencing a wide range of difficulties, including anxiety (e.g., generalized , panic disorder, social, agoraphobia, health, OCD), depression and other mood disorders (e.g., bipolar disorder), pain conditions (acute and chronic pain), as well as trauma, relationship difficulties, and life transitions. She also supports individuals managing productivity, stress, and burnout in high pressure environments and has a special interest in treating individuals with diverse and intersecting identities.
Dr. Zhu has experience treating adults experiencing a wide range of difficulties, including anxiety (e.g., generalized , panic disorder, social, agoraphobia, health, OCD), depression and other mood disorders (e.g., bipolar disorder), pain conditions (acute and chronic pain), as well as trauma, relationship difficulties, and life transitions. She also supports individuals managing productivity, stress, and burnout in high pressure environments and has a special interest in treating individuals with diverse and intersecting identities.
(437) 747-6295 View (437) 747-6295
Photo of Talia Marcheggiani, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Flesherton, ON
Talia Marcheggiani
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), ND
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6S  (Online Only)
I have worked with a variety of mental health and physical conditions, such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, PMDD, Bipolar, among other conditions.
I believe in trauma-informed, shame-free, compassionate, person-centred care that empowers you and honours your body, mind, and emotions. In addition to being a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), I am a licensed Naturopathic Doctor (since 2014) focusing on mental health, hormones, mood, and digestion.
I have worked with a variety of mental health and physical conditions, such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, PMDD, Bipolar, among other conditions.
I believe in trauma-informed, shame-free, compassionate, person-centred care that empowers you and honours your body, mind, and emotions. In addition to being a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), I am a licensed Naturopathic Doctor (since 2014) focusing on mental health, hormones, mood, and digestion.
(647) 797-2618 View (647) 797-2618
Photo of Noemia Cerqueira New Clients Always Welcomed!, Registered Psychotherapist in Flesherton, 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 Jen Nicholson, MSW RSW, Registered Social Worker in Flesherton, ON
Jen Nicholson, MSW RSW
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntsville, ON P1H
Counselling / Psychotherapy for Adults, Adolescents and Couples. Scope of practice includes mental health struggles (anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder); relationship Issues; addictions / substance abuse; grief and loss; trauma informed work including counselling for male and male identified survivors of sexual abuse. EMDR therapy / treatment available.
Counselling / Psychotherapy for Adults, Adolescents and Couples. Scope of practice includes mental health struggles (anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder); relationship Issues; addictions / substance abuse; grief and loss; trauma informed work including counselling for male and male identified survivors of sexual abuse. EMDR therapy / treatment available.
(705) 243-8390 View (705) 243-8390
Photo of Brain Healthy Clinic, Registered Psychotherapist in Flesherton, ON
Brain Healthy Clinic
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4J  (Online Only)
At Brain Healthy Clinic, we are dedicated to supporting your journey towards emotional well-being and personal growth. Our mission is to provide individualized strategies tailored specifically for you, empowering you to overcome life's challenges and lead a fulfilling life. Our team of therapists have a wide range of specialities including, but not limited to: dealing with the struggles of ADHD, Bipolar, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Trauma, Sex Therapy, Marriage/Divorce/After-Divorce counselling, children's counselling, and many more.
At Brain Healthy Clinic, we are dedicated to supporting your journey towards emotional well-being and personal growth. Our mission is to provide individualized strategies tailored specifically for you, empowering you to overcome life's challenges and lead a fulfilling life. Our team of therapists have a wide range of specialities including, but not limited to: dealing with the struggles of ADHD, Bipolar, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Trauma, Sex Therapy, Marriage/Divorce/After-Divorce counselling, children's counselling, and many more.
(289) 796-0804 x1 View (289) 796-0804 x1
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.