Photo of The Dot Canada, Registered Psychotherapist in Lindsay, ON
The Dot Canada
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, MSW
Verified Verified
Lindsay, ON K9V  (Online Only)
If you're feeling disconnected, distracted, and detached from your life, it may be time to look at why. Why can't I connect, why am I not able to just "get over" my past, or why does it all feel so meaningless? Maybe there are other questions, like “what am I doing with my life” or “who do I want to be?”. It’s okay to take time that's just for you, to look at your life and see both the big picture and explore the often overlooked details. With the right support, you can feel more present, connected, and in control of your life.
If you're feeling disconnected, distracted, and detached from your life, it may be time to look at why. Why can't I connect, why am I not able to just "get over" my past, or why does it all feel so meaningless? Maybe there are other questions, like “what am I doing with my life” or “who do I want to be?”. It’s okay to take time that's just for you, to look at your life and see both the big picture and explore the often overlooked details. With the right support, you can feel more present, connected, and in control of your life.
(249) 488-1297 View (249) 488-1297

Online Therapists

Photo of Talia Marcheggiani, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Lindsay, 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 Eyal Bodenstein, Psychologist in Lindsay, ON
Eyal Bodenstein
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Thornhill, ON L4J
I am a registered psychologist with comprehensive experience in the assessment and treatment of a wide variety of difficulties, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), adjustment disorder, anxiety disorders, mood disorders (e.g. depression, bipolar disorder, manic disorders), grief, interpersonal difficulties, pain and health management, anger management, longstanding personality issues, stress management, sleep issues, psychovocational counselling, and self-esteem challenges. I also provide assessment and treatment for patients who have been affected as a result of work-related accidents or motor vehicle accidents (MVAs) and who suffer from driving phobia, in conjunction with a qualified driving instructor.
I am a registered psychologist with comprehensive experience in the assessment and treatment of a wide variety of difficulties, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), adjustment disorder, anxiety disorders, mood disorders (e.g. depression, bipolar disorder, manic disorders), grief, interpersonal difficulties, pain and health management, anger management, longstanding personality issues, stress management, sleep issues, psychovocational counselling, and self-esteem challenges. I also provide assessment and treatment for patients who have been affected as a result of work-related accidents or motor vehicle accidents (MVAs) and who suffer from driving phobia, in conjunction with a qualified driving instructor.
(844) 402-1302 View (844) 402-1302
Photo of Noor Alassadi in Lindsay, 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 Shannon Robinson And Associates, Psychologist in Lindsay, ON
Shannon Robinson And Associates
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L4K  (Online Only)
We specialize in treating depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, shyness/self-esteem issues, perfectionism, prenatal/ postpartum disorders, eating disorders/body image concerns, self-harming behavior, interpersonal difficulties, parenting issues, and personality disorders.
We are a group of registered mental health professionals including a psychologist, social worker, and psychotherapist. Our priority is to provide clients with a safe and confidential space to better understand themselves and work through challenges. We offer evidence-based treatments including Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness and Compassion based therapies, Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) & Prolonged Exposure (PE).
We specialize in treating depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, shyness/self-esteem issues, perfectionism, prenatal/ postpartum disorders, eating disorders/body image concerns, self-harming behavior, interpersonal difficulties, parenting issues, and personality disorders.
We are a group of registered mental health professionals including a psychologist, social worker, and psychotherapist. Our priority is to provide clients with a safe and confidential space to better understand themselves and work through challenges. We offer evidence-based treatments including Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness and Compassion based therapies, Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) & Prolonged Exposure (PE).
(647) 931-5010 View (647) 931-5010
Photo of Dundas Counselling & Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Registered Social Worker in Lindsay, 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 Marci Gray -Social Worker Emdr Psychotherapist, Registered Social Worker in Lindsay, 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 Edith Townsend, Registered Social Worker in Lindsay, 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 Ashlyn Fisher, Registered Social Worker in Lindsay, 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 Ontario Psychotherapy: Trauma and Grief Therapist, Registered Social Worker in Lindsay, ON
Ontario Psychotherapy: Trauma and Grief Therapist
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Markham, ON L6B  (Online Only)
My areas of practice include emotion dysregulation (BPD and bipolar disorder), depression and anxiety, and grief and loss.
Are you perpetually in fight or flight or shut down mode? Do your emotions feel out of control? Easily triggered? I'm Rachelle and I’m the face behind OPS, an online therapy practice. I specialize in nervous system stabilization. I work with those who have experienced trauma to process its emotional and the physical effects. My practice incorporates a focus on the mind-body connection, which most clients say was the missing piece in previous therapy. The body goes through just as much as the mind; effective therapy involves paying close attention to the body and developing nervous system resiliency.
My areas of practice include emotion dysregulation (BPD and bipolar disorder), depression and anxiety, and grief and loss.
Are you perpetually in fight or flight or shut down mode? Do your emotions feel out of control? Easily triggered? I'm Rachelle and I’m the face behind OPS, an online therapy practice. I specialize in nervous system stabilization. I work with those who have experienced trauma to process its emotional and the physical effects. My practice incorporates a focus on the mind-body connection, which most clients say was the missing piece in previous therapy. The body goes through just as much as the mind; effective therapy involves paying close attention to the body and developing nervous system resiliency.
(289) 806-5137 View (289) 806-5137
Photo of Krista Gatti @ Psychotherapy for You, Registered Social Worker in Lindsay, ON
Krista Gatti @ Psychotherapy for You
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peterborough, ON K9H  (Online Only)
I am a registered social Worker and Psychotherapist in Ontario. I am also a member of Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. I obtained my bachelor of Social Work from the University of Manitoba and obtained my Masters of Social Work from the University of Windsor. I have a certificate in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT). I also have a certificate in Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapy and Brian Spotting. I started my career by providing support to individuals who were struggling with life challenges. I have experience working with a variety of areas such as anxiety, depression, grief, separation, and sel
I am a registered social Worker and Psychotherapist in Ontario. I am also a member of Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. I obtained my bachelor of Social Work from the University of Manitoba and obtained my Masters of Social Work from the University of Windsor. I have a certificate in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT). I also have a certificate in Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapy and Brian Spotting. I started my career by providing support to individuals who were struggling with life challenges. I have experience working with a variety of areas such as anxiety, depression, grief, separation, and sel
(343) 307-4960 View (343) 307-4960
Photo of Dr. Lisa Bradford, Psychologist in Lindsay, ON
Dr. Lisa Bradford
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5R
Do you feel lonely, empty, overwhelmed or stuck? Does it seem like bad things are always happening to you while everyone else is living a happy life? Do you and your partner have the same fights over and over again? I can help you resolve these issues. I am a warm, down-to-earth, authentic, honest, and empathic person who genuinely cares about your well-being. I help individuals work through a wide variety of issues including those related to anxiety, depression, obsessionality, trauma, dissociation, guilt, shame, insomnia, relationships, sexual orientation, eating, and identity and self-esteem. I embrace and celebrate diversity.
Do you feel lonely, empty, overwhelmed or stuck? Does it seem like bad things are always happening to you while everyone else is living a happy life? Do you and your partner have the same fights over and over again? I can help you resolve these issues. I am a warm, down-to-earth, authentic, honest, and empathic person who genuinely cares about your well-being. I help individuals work through a wide variety of issues including those related to anxiety, depression, obsessionality, trauma, dissociation, guilt, shame, insomnia, relationships, sexual orientation, eating, and identity and self-esteem. I embrace and celebrate diversity.
(647) 724-5122 View (647) 724-5122
Photo of Talya Feldman-Lloyd, Registered Psychotherapist in Lindsay, ON
Talya Feldman-Lloyd
Registered Psychotherapist, 00, 93, 72
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4P
I help people reclaim their truest, most authentic selves. I work with people with: mental health issues/ mental illness, sex and intimacy struggles, lack of boundaries, trauma, grief and bereavement, low self-esteem and lack of self love, suicidal ideation, anger management, and more. I am happy to work with clients who are committed to the healing process; who show up consistently, who are willing to put in the work, are honest with both themselves and myself, and are open-minded to try alternative tools and techniques.
I help people reclaim their truest, most authentic selves. I work with people with: mental health issues/ mental illness, sex and intimacy struggles, lack of boundaries, trauma, grief and bereavement, low self-esteem and lack of self love, suicidal ideation, anger management, and more. I am happy to work with clients who are committed to the healing process; who show up consistently, who are willing to put in the work, are honest with both themselves and myself, and are open-minded to try alternative tools and techniques.
(647) 493-9185 View (647) 493-9185
Photo of Carly Clifton, Registered Psychotherapist in Lindsay, ON
Carly Clifton
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, BAH, RP, OACCPP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8X  (Online Only)
Do you often find yourself living in the past, dwelling on things that have happened, or living in the future, worrying about what might happen? Having trouble dealing with or identifying depressed or anxious feelings? I can provide clarity, motivation, and help you put into words what you are experiencing. Life's issues define your world - I can bring passion and purpose back into your life, with effective solutions to specific problems. Our practice is practical and interactive. We work together as a team with you to find the best solution for you. Let us help you reach your true potential!
Do you often find yourself living in the past, dwelling on things that have happened, or living in the future, worrying about what might happen? Having trouble dealing with or identifying depressed or anxious feelings? I can provide clarity, motivation, and help you put into words what you are experiencing. Life's issues define your world - I can bring passion and purpose back into your life, with effective solutions to specific problems. Our practice is practical and interactive. We work together as a team with you to find the best solution for you. Let us help you reach your true potential!
(289) 274-8172 View (289) 274-8172
Photo of Durham Psychologists, Psychologist in Lindsay, ON
Durham Psychologists
Psychologist, CPsych
Verified Verified
Ajax, ON L1S
Durham Psychologists is a full service psychology clinic located in Ajax, Ontario. Our highly qualified, registered, and experienced clinicians are happy to help you. Please feel free to have a look at our website and learn more about this reputable clinic.
Durham Psychologists is a full service psychology clinic located in Ajax, Ontario. Our highly qualified, registered, and experienced clinicians are happy to help you. Please feel free to have a look at our website and learn more about this reputable clinic.
(289) 802-2303 View (289) 802-2303
Photo of Nina Laugesen, Psychologist in Lindsay, ON
Nina Laugesen
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6J
Do you find yourself standing at a crossroads, unsure about the path to follow? Are you ready to create positive changes in your life, but troubling symptoms are hindering your progress? Do you feel worried when it comes to supporting your children and loved ones? Thankfully, you don't have to navigate these challenges alone. Hi, my name is Dr. Nina Laugesen, psychologist and director at Willow Tree Psychology. With almost 20 years experience, I have worked with children, adolescents, adults and families with a range of concerns, including anxiety, PTSD, OCD, emotion dysregulation, low mood, parenting concerns, and more.
Do you find yourself standing at a crossroads, unsure about the path to follow? Are you ready to create positive changes in your life, but troubling symptoms are hindering your progress? Do you feel worried when it comes to supporting your children and loved ones? Thankfully, you don't have to navigate these challenges alone. Hi, my name is Dr. Nina Laugesen, psychologist and director at Willow Tree Psychology. With almost 20 years experience, I have worked with children, adolescents, adults and families with a range of concerns, including anxiety, PTSD, OCD, emotion dysregulation, low mood, parenting concerns, and more.
(289) 815-5395 View (289) 815-5395
Photo of Joanna Zhao, Registered Social Worker in Lindsay, ON
Joanna Zhao
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, BSW
Verified Verified
North York, ON M2N
I take a client-centered approach that respect people as the authority on their own experiences and recognize the key role that emotions play in our lives. My counseling work is informed by various therapeutic modalities as well as by my extensive clinical experiences, but always with a focus on the uniqueness of each individual. Over the years, I have effectively helped many people adjust for better lives - helping them learn the strategies and tools necessary to resolve their difficulties and build on their strengths.
I take a client-centered approach that respect people as the authority on their own experiences and recognize the key role that emotions play in our lives. My counseling work is informed by various therapeutic modalities as well as by my extensive clinical experiences, but always with a focus on the uniqueness of each individual. Over the years, I have effectively helped many people adjust for better lives - helping them learn the strategies and tools necessary to resolve their difficulties and build on their strengths.
(647) 503-4686 View (647) 503-4686
Photo of Behnam Kohandel, Psychologist in Lindsay, ON
Behnam Kohandel
Psychologist, MA, R, Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milton, ON L9T
Life at times may feel like a relentless struggle, filled with sadness, discouragement, and overwhelming despair. As a psychologist, with more than 20 years experience, I can support you to overcome challenges such as depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, perfectionism, people pleasing, trauma, addiction, eating issues including binge eating, bulimia and anorexia and couples therapy. I utilize Internal Family Systems (IFS), an innovative and transformative therapeutic model for emotional healing of eating disorders, addiction, anxiety, depression, and relationship difficulties.
Life at times may feel like a relentless struggle, filled with sadness, discouragement, and overwhelming despair. As a psychologist, with more than 20 years experience, I can support you to overcome challenges such as depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, perfectionism, people pleasing, trauma, addiction, eating issues including binge eating, bulimia and anorexia and couples therapy. I utilize Internal Family Systems (IFS), an innovative and transformative therapeutic model for emotional healing of eating disorders, addiction, anxiety, depression, and relationship difficulties.
(844) 311-8027 View (844) 311-8027
Photo of Aset Group Consulting and Counselling Services, Registered Social Worker in Lindsay, ON
Aset Group Consulting and Counselling Services
Registered Social Worker
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ajax, ON L1Z
Inspiring Change From Within. Are you an individual: adult, parent, youth who is seeking changes in your life due to depression, grief, separation, anxiety? Are you a parent seeking to bring your family together in counselling? Are you worried about your youth's self-esteem? Consider a therapist on your healing journey. Aset Group Consulting and Counselling Services is a group practice specializing in depression, trauma, adoption, family counselling, depression& more. Our approach is flexible to your needs, client-centered and goal-oriented.
Inspiring Change From Within. Are you an individual: adult, parent, youth who is seeking changes in your life due to depression, grief, separation, anxiety? Are you a parent seeking to bring your family together in counselling? Are you worried about your youth's self-esteem? Consider a therapist on your healing journey. Aset Group Consulting and Counselling Services is a group practice specializing in depression, trauma, adoption, family counselling, depression& more. Our approach is flexible to your needs, client-centered and goal-oriented.
(289) 278-8820 View (289) 278-8820
Photo of Kristy Cartwright, Registered Psychotherapist in Lindsay, ON
Kristy Cartwright
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Whitby, ON L1N
We all feel lost sometimes or face life challenges and relationships that can feel overwhelming. Life is tough, but I believe we all have the ability to overcome hardships. Together, we can explore your concerns and past traumas, working towards lasting change that helps you progress toward the person and future you desire and deserve. I believe in a collaborative approach that empowers and motivates you during the therapeutic process. It's important to me to not only understand and address your concerns throughout therapy, but also to remind you of your strengths and capacity to contribute to goal setting and problem solving.
We all feel lost sometimes or face life challenges and relationships that can feel overwhelming. Life is tough, but I believe we all have the ability to overcome hardships. Together, we can explore your concerns and past traumas, working towards lasting change that helps you progress toward the person and future you desire and deserve. I believe in a collaborative approach that empowers and motivates you during the therapeutic process. It's important to me to not only understand and address your concerns throughout therapy, but also to remind you of your strengths and capacity to contribute to goal setting and problem solving.
(289) 769-9428 View (289) 769-9428

See more therapy options for Lindsay

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.