Photo of Jennifer Rapley, Registered Social Worker in Goderich, ON
Jennifer Rapley
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Goderich, ON N7A
I have been working in the field since 2010 and am excited to welcome clients interested in a supportive, warm therapeutic relationship. I love to work with those who are motivated to make changes, or who are needing a supportive space to talk through their thoughts and emotions.
I have been working in the field since 2010 and am excited to welcome clients interested in a supportive, warm therapeutic relationship. I love to work with those who are motivated to make changes, or who are needing a supportive space to talk through their thoughts and emotions.
(519) 386-2578 View (519) 386-2578
Photo of Rick Sherwood, Registered Social Worker in Goderich, ON
Rick Sherwood
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Goderich, ON N7A
Do you feel stuck, do you feel overwhelmed are you looking for a new direction away from where you currently are? I've been there, stuck and lost and I use my background, as well as my education to assist people every day to find a new direction for their life. I have been forced to recreate myself and I can help you to create a new pathway that meets your goals. During my time as a therapist I have devised a unique supplement to counselling which is called Echo Cognitive Supplemental Therapy or ECST. These audio recordings are personalized and reaffirms the goals we discuss during your counselling sessions.
Do you feel stuck, do you feel overwhelmed are you looking for a new direction away from where you currently are? I've been there, stuck and lost and I use my background, as well as my education to assist people every day to find a new direction for their life. I have been forced to recreate myself and I can help you to create a new pathway that meets your goals. During my time as a therapist I have devised a unique supplement to counselling which is called Echo Cognitive Supplemental Therapy or ECST. These audio recordings are personalized and reaffirms the goals we discuss during your counselling sessions.
(226) 782-4335 View (226) 782-4335

Online Therapists

Photo of Kamy Bhatti, Registered Social Worker in Goderich, 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 Edith Townsend, Registered Social Worker in Goderich, ON
Edith Townsend
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1H
I have specialities which include compulsive behaviours such as hypersexuality, gambling, video gaming, shopping, and eating behaviours as well as OCD and bipolar disorder.
With over 22 years of clinical experience and training in the fields of addiction, mental health, relationships and trauma, my practice offers evidence-based therapies to provide an opportunity for clients to attain self-awareness, behaviour change, and personal growth and recovery in an environment that is supportive and non-judgmental. My interests include mood disorders such as anxiety and depression, relationship issues, life transitions, self esteem, and substance and behavioural addictions. I'm dedicated to helping clients build a healthier relationship with themselves and others.
I have specialities which include compulsive behaviours such as hypersexuality, gambling, video gaming, shopping, and eating behaviours as well as OCD and bipolar disorder.
With over 22 years of clinical experience and training in the fields of addiction, mental health, relationships and trauma, my practice offers evidence-based therapies to provide an opportunity for clients to attain self-awareness, behaviour change, and personal growth and recovery in an environment that is supportive and non-judgmental. My interests include mood disorders such as anxiety and depression, relationship issues, life transitions, self esteem, and substance and behavioural addictions. I'm dedicated to helping clients build a healthier relationship with themselves and others.
(226) 779-7805 View (226) 779-7805
Photo of Shankari Sharma, Psychological Associate in Goderich, ON
Shankari Sharma
Psychological Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Oakville, ON L6M
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 Waterloo CBT Clinic, Psychologist in Goderich, ON
Waterloo CBT Clinic
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Waterloo, ON N2K
Welcome to the Waterloo CBT Clinic! Our therapists and psychologists provide you with compassion and understanding, while at the same time teaching you the skills you need to achieve your treatment goals. We provide diagnostic assessment and treatment to children, adolescents, adults and couples experiencing a wide range of mental health difficulties. Our areas of expertise include generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety, phobias, health anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, depression, bipolar disorder, stress, insomnia, post-traumatic stress, and chronic pain.
Welcome to the Waterloo CBT Clinic! Our therapists and psychologists provide you with compassion and understanding, while at the same time teaching you the skills you need to achieve your treatment goals. We provide diagnostic assessment and treatment to children, adolescents, adults and couples experiencing a wide range of mental health difficulties. Our areas of expertise include generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety, phobias, health anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, depression, bipolar disorder, stress, insomnia, post-traumatic stress, and chronic pain.
(226) 798-4758 View (226) 798-4758
Photo of Darlene Artt, Registered Psychotherapist in Goderich, 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 Grace MacAskill, Registered Psychotherapist in Goderich, 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 Celine Williams-Tracey, Registered Social Worker in Goderich, 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 Marie-Maude Pelletier Sottile, Registered Psychotherapist in Goderich, ON
Marie-Maude Pelletier Sottile
Registered Psychotherapist, BAPsych, MA , MACP, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bolton, ON L7E
My clinical experience allows me to treat individuals who experience low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship struggles, emotional disturbances, stress, mood disorders, behavioural issues, ADHD, bipolar, borderline disorder, & adjusting to a life change.
Therapy is an opportunity to increase our resilience and to learn how to cope with undesirable life events. Anger, fear, sadness or guilt arise when life experiences are overlooked, neglected, and ununderstood. Anxiety & Depression is a response to the failure to care for the feelings & emotions of the self. Likewise, feelings of stress and inner discomfort need understanding to be changed. The psychotherapy techniques I use to ease client issues and discomfort include CBT, Talking Therapy, DBT skills, Client-Centred, Compassion, Emotional and Solution Focus Therapy, Psychoeducation, frameworks of attachment, and family systems.
My clinical experience allows me to treat individuals who experience low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship struggles, emotional disturbances, stress, mood disorders, behavioural issues, ADHD, bipolar, borderline disorder, & adjusting to a life change.
Therapy is an opportunity to increase our resilience and to learn how to cope with undesirable life events. Anger, fear, sadness or guilt arise when life experiences are overlooked, neglected, and ununderstood. Anxiety & Depression is a response to the failure to care for the feelings & emotions of the self. Likewise, feelings of stress and inner discomfort need understanding to be changed. The psychotherapy techniques I use to ease client issues and discomfort include CBT, Talking Therapy, DBT skills, Client-Centred, Compassion, Emotional and Solution Focus Therapy, Psychoeducation, frameworks of attachment, and family systems.
(647) 905-9212 View (647) 905-9212
Photo of Edward S Davey, Registered Social Worker in Goderich, ON
Edward S Davey
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, BSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orangeville, ON L9W  (Online Only)
My areas of speciality include; depression, anxiety, ADHD, and managing certain personality disorders including (but not limited to) borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, and social anxiety. Other areas of focus include professional and/or workplace struggles/development including (but not limited to); procrastination, motivation, imposter syndrome, and perfectionism. My goal is to work with my clients towards recognizing and understanding exactly what is hindering their personal growth and acting as a barrier against success.
My areas of speciality include; depression, anxiety, ADHD, and managing certain personality disorders including (but not limited to) borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, and social anxiety. Other areas of focus include professional and/or workplace struggles/development including (but not limited to); procrastination, motivation, imposter syndrome, and perfectionism. My goal is to work with my clients towards recognizing and understanding exactly what is hindering their personal growth and acting as a barrier against success.
(548) 485-5914 View (548) 485-5914
Photo of Dundas Counselling & Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Registered Social Worker in Goderich, ON
Dundas Counselling & Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
Registered Social Worker, PhD, MSW, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Dundas, ON L9H
Are you struggling with your mood, anxiety or other personal or life problems? We provide treatment for depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, PTSD, grief, relationship conflicts and other interpersonal problems.
Dundas Counselling & CBT provides counselling and psychotherapy services that are tailored to your unique needs and have been shown to be effective in clinical research. By taking a collaborative approach, we can help you identify the sources of your stress or your problems, and move towards strengthening coping skills and finding successful solutions.
Are you struggling with your mood, anxiety or other personal or life problems? We provide treatment for depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, PTSD, grief, relationship conflicts and other interpersonal problems.
Dundas Counselling & CBT provides counselling and psychotherapy services that are tailored to your unique needs and have been shown to be effective in clinical research. By taking a collaborative approach, we can help you identify the sources of your stress or your problems, and move towards strengthening coping skills and finding successful solutions.
(289) 684-3581 View (289) 684-3581
Photo of Somia Aslam Registered Psychotherapist, Registered Psychotherapist in Goderich, ON
Somia Aslam Registered Psychotherapist
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, PMH-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Milton, ON L9T  (Online Only)
Additionally,I have specialized training to treat individuals struggling with pregnancy and postpartum anxiety, depression, OCD and bipolar disorder.
Are you experiencing anxious thoughts, depressed mood, or finding it hard to adjust to major life transitions? Do unwanted and intrusive thoughts and feelings hinder your ability to fully engage in a meaningful life? Are you finding it challenging to cope with uncertainty in your life? Are you currently facing emotional challenges related to pregnancy or postpartum experience? We'll take time to discover your strengths and work towards your journey.
Additionally,I have specialized training to treat individuals struggling with pregnancy and postpartum anxiety, depression, OCD and bipolar disorder.
Are you experiencing anxious thoughts, depressed mood, or finding it hard to adjust to major life transitions? Do unwanted and intrusive thoughts and feelings hinder your ability to fully engage in a meaningful life? Are you finding it challenging to cope with uncertainty in your life? Are you currently facing emotional challenges related to pregnancy or postpartum experience? We'll take time to discover your strengths and work towards your journey.
(289) 236-1280 View (289) 236-1280
Photo of Lorna Anderson, Registered Psychotherapist in Goderich, ON
Lorna Anderson
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1H  (Online Only)
***NOW ACCEPTING CLIENTS FOR PHONE/VIDEO*** It’s a privilege and honour to be doing this work, and to walk alongside clients on their respective healing journeys. I believe that everyone is the expert of their own lives and life experiences. By working collaboratively and through meaning-making, I aim to support clients in connecting with their needs, dreams, hopes, as well as to the answers I believe each person has inside them. My approach is trauma-informed, non-directive, strength-based, and client-centered. Healing, the discovery of possibilities, one’s resilience, and one's gifts can all be part of the therapy process.
***NOW ACCEPTING CLIENTS FOR PHONE/VIDEO*** It’s a privilege and honour to be doing this work, and to walk alongside clients on their respective healing journeys. I believe that everyone is the expert of their own lives and life experiences. By working collaboratively and through meaning-making, I aim to support clients in connecting with their needs, dreams, hopes, as well as to the answers I believe each person has inside them. My approach is trauma-informed, non-directive, strength-based, and client-centered. Healing, the discovery of possibilities, one’s resilience, and one's gifts can all be part of the therapy process.
(289) 272-7293 View (289) 272-7293
Photo of Ruby Shah, Registered Social Worker in Goderich, ON
Ruby Shah
Registered Social Worker, MSW, BSc
Verified Verified
Brampton, ON L6W
*Accepting new clients* Life can be overwhelming and with challenges. I have 20+ years of experience working in mental health settings at various hospitals and clinics in the GTA. Making the decision to look into counselling or therapy can feel uncomfortable and intimidating at times. It's important to find a therapist with whom you feel comfortable. Together we will assess your current situation and the challenges you may be facing, brainstorm and examine the changes you would like to make. I will support you in establishing your goals, and create an intervention plan based on your strengths to support changes.
*Accepting new clients* Life can be overwhelming and with challenges. I have 20+ years of experience working in mental health settings at various hospitals and clinics in the GTA. Making the decision to look into counselling or therapy can feel uncomfortable and intimidating at times. It's important to find a therapist with whom you feel comfortable. Together we will assess your current situation and the challenges you may be facing, brainstorm and examine the changes you would like to make. I will support you in establishing your goals, and create an intervention plan based on your strengths to support changes.
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Photo of Lisa Mary Elizabeth Detwiler, Registered Psychotherapist in Goderich, ON
Lisa Mary Elizabeth Detwiler
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, OT Reg, (Ont)
Verified Verified
Guelph, ON N1H
ACCEPTING NEW ONTARIO BASED CLIENTS: Specializing in individual and group psychotherapy using evidence- based treatment models including Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy ( CPT). I am a Graduate of the Gestalt Institute of Toronto. I have also pioneered the creation of a Psychotherapy Supervision Training program for Occupational therapists in Ontario and have formal training in Supervision. The priority of my approach is to create a strong therapeutic relationship with clients, that is non-judgemental, safe, and collaborative.
ACCEPTING NEW ONTARIO BASED CLIENTS: Specializing in individual and group psychotherapy using evidence- based treatment models including Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy ( CPT). I am a Graduate of the Gestalt Institute of Toronto. I have also pioneered the creation of a Psychotherapy Supervision Training program for Occupational therapists in Ontario and have formal training in Supervision. The priority of my approach is to create a strong therapeutic relationship with clients, that is non-judgemental, safe, and collaborative.
(226) 780-8654 View (226) 780-8654
Photo of Victoria Mills, Registered Social Worker in Goderich, ON
Victoria Mills
Registered Social Worker, MSW RSW
Verified Verified
London, ON N6A
As a Registered Social Worker with over 9 years of experience in mental health, I am passionate about helping individuals navigate and overcome their challenges, leading to a fulfilling life as defined by them. Relationship issues, burnout, loss, or anxiety may be affecting your day-to-day life. Together, we can explore these issues in a safe space to allow for insight, growth, and recovery.
As a Registered Social Worker with over 9 years of experience in mental health, I am passionate about helping individuals navigate and overcome their challenges, leading to a fulfilling life as defined by them. Relationship issues, burnout, loss, or anxiety may be affecting your day-to-day life. Together, we can explore these issues in a safe space to allow for insight, growth, and recovery.
(548) 490-5093 View (548) 490-5093
Photo of Keeping Peace Counselling , Registered Psychotherapist in Goderich, ON
Keeping Peace Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Brampton, ON L6R
Do you ever feel like life shouldn't be this hard? It doesn't have to be! Things CAN get better and Keeping Peace psychotherapists are here to make sure that you don't have to do it alone. Whether you are wrestling with life transitions, conflict with your teen, marriage struggles, or mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD, our therapists can help guide you on your journey.
Do you ever feel like life shouldn't be this hard? It doesn't have to be! Things CAN get better and Keeping Peace psychotherapists are here to make sure that you don't have to do it alone. Whether you are wrestling with life transitions, conflict with your teen, marriage struggles, or mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD, our therapists can help guide you on your journey.
(365) 536-0332 View (365) 536-0332
Photo of Sacred Circle Healing Centre--Dawn C. Hill, Registered Social Worker in Goderich, ON
Sacred Circle Healing Centre--Dawn C. Hill
Registered Social Worker, MSW RSW
Verified Verified
Ohsweken, ON N0A  (Online Only)
Dawn's practice specializes in healing from acute, chronic, and intergenerational trauma. We will work on addressing and healing the root causes of the symptoms such as addictions, anxiety, depression, grief, overthinking, perfectionism, relationship difficulties, self-esteem and the epigentic transferral of trauma. The focus of the transformative healing journey will be on empowerment, establishing resilience, and personal growth. The treatment modailites used will be tailored to meet the specific needs of each client, including residential school surviors and others who have faced traumatic situations in their lives.
Dawn's practice specializes in healing from acute, chronic, and intergenerational trauma. We will work on addressing and healing the root causes of the symptoms such as addictions, anxiety, depression, grief, overthinking, perfectionism, relationship difficulties, self-esteem and the epigentic transferral of trauma. The focus of the transformative healing journey will be on empowerment, establishing resilience, and personal growth. The treatment modailites used will be tailored to meet the specific needs of each client, including residential school surviors and others who have faced traumatic situations in their lives.
(226) 894-4228 View (226) 894-4228
Photo of Holly Robinson, Registered Psychotherapist in Goderich, ON
Holly Robinson
Registered Psychotherapist, CIMHP, CCTP-II, CGCS, CCFP, CHyp
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Orangeville, ON L9W  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
It is my passion to help individuals liberate their energy from the pain of the past, become more resourceful in the present, and move towards their most fulfilling vision for the future. I specialize in treating adults with trauma, PTSD, C-PTSD, compassion fatigue, stress, burnout, grief, shame, and anxiety. I offer a holistic approach to psychotherapy integrating EMDR, SE, IFS, NLP, TIME, EFT, RTT, HeartMath, Reiki, Hypnotherapy, Spiritual Psychotherapy, and more. I have extensive training in evidence-based and cutting-edge approaches that allow me to create a customized therapeutic experience for you to awaken the healer within.
It is my passion to help individuals liberate their energy from the pain of the past, become more resourceful in the present, and move towards their most fulfilling vision for the future. I specialize in treating adults with trauma, PTSD, C-PTSD, compassion fatigue, stress, burnout, grief, shame, and anxiety. I offer a holistic approach to psychotherapy integrating EMDR, SE, IFS, NLP, TIME, EFT, RTT, HeartMath, Reiki, Hypnotherapy, Spiritual Psychotherapy, and more. I have extensive training in evidence-based and cutting-edge approaches that allow me to create a customized therapeutic experience for you to awaken the healer within.
(289) 206-8704 View (289) 206-8704

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Nearby Bipolar Disorder Counsellors Searches for Goderich

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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.