Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Mississauga, ON

Photo of Julien Fortier, Registered Social Worker in Mississauga, ON
Julien Fortier
Registered Social Worker, MSW, BMT, RSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4V  (Online Only)
Specializing in complex mental health issues like substance use, bipolar disorder, and more, I offer a holistic approach with mindfulness, motivational interviewing and CBT.
I specialize in supporting clients with mental health challenges—depression, anxiety, PTSD, intellectual disabilities, substance use, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. Ideal clients seek holistic care, combining mindfulness, CBT, music therapy, and empathy. They desire equitable, barrier-free support for stability and a healthier mindset. They value tailored strategies and a collaborative ally skilled in advocacy and communication. Ultimately, they seek understanding and holistic healing in a safe, empathetic space.
Specializing in complex mental health issues like substance use, bipolar disorder, and more, I offer a holistic approach with mindfulness, motivational interviewing and CBT.
I specialize in supporting clients with mental health challenges—depression, anxiety, PTSD, intellectual disabilities, substance use, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. Ideal clients seek holistic care, combining mindfulness, CBT, music therapy, and empathy. They desire equitable, barrier-free support for stability and a healthier mindset. They value tailored strategies and a collaborative ally skilled in advocacy and communication. Ultimately, they seek understanding and holistic healing in a safe, empathetic space.
(647) 492-5144 View (647) 492-5144
Photo of Somia Aslam Registered Psychotherapist, Registered Psychotherapist in Mississauga, ON
Somia Aslam Registered Psychotherapist
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, PMH-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4T  (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 Kamy Bhatti, Registered Social Worker in Mississauga, 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 Jenna Cripps (Supervised Practice), Psychologist under supervised practice in Mississauga, 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 Celine Williams-Tracey, Registered Social Worker in Mississauga, ON
Celine Williams-Tracey
Registered Social Worker, HBSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L5B  (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 Jesse Roberts, Psychologist in Mississauga, ON
Jesse Roberts
Psychologist, MA, CPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4T
I am a registered Clinical and Forensic Psychologist offering individual therapy and assessment services (ADHD; psychodiagnostic) through Silm Centre for Mental Health. I use a cognitive behavioral approach in my clinical work (e.g., CBT, DBT, CPT) and work collaboratively with clients to develop meaningful and individualized treatment plans. I see clients for a variety of concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma-related disorders, substance use issues, bipolar and psychotic disorders, gender dysphoria, and issues of emotion regulation (e.g. anger, self-harming).
I am a registered Clinical and Forensic Psychologist offering individual therapy and assessment services (ADHD; psychodiagnostic) through Silm Centre for Mental Health. I use a cognitive behavioral approach in my clinical work (e.g., CBT, DBT, CPT) and work collaboratively with clients to develop meaningful and individualized treatment plans. I see clients for a variety of concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma-related disorders, substance use issues, bipolar and psychotic disorders, gender dysphoria, and issues of emotion regulation (e.g. anger, self-harming).
(437) 747-5628 View (437) 747-5628
Photo of Aastha Jain, Registered Psychotherapist in Mississauga, ON
Aastha Jain
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MPhil
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5W  (Online Only)
Coming to therapy is not an easy decision to make for some of us. One wonders if one's problems are "big" enough. Diagnostically some of these issues might be depression, unexplained anxiety, panic attacks, trauma, personality disorder, bipolar disorder and the like. On the inside it might look & feel like identity related issues, a sense of feeling "stuck", feeling of emptiness, difficulty in relationships, feeling not in control of oneself. At times it seems what creates an emotional upheaval is something that happens on the outside, like losing a job, moving to another country or loss of a loved one.
Coming to therapy is not an easy decision to make for some of us. One wonders if one's problems are "big" enough. Diagnostically some of these issues might be depression, unexplained anxiety, panic attacks, trauma, personality disorder, bipolar disorder and the like. On the inside it might look & feel like identity related issues, a sense of feeling "stuck", feeling of emptiness, difficulty in relationships, feeling not in control of oneself. At times it seems what creates an emotional upheaval is something that happens on the outside, like losing a job, moving to another country or loss of a loved one.
(289) 302-0498 View (289) 302-0498
Photo of Gentlewaves Counseling and Psychotherapy in Mississauga, ON
Gentlewaves Counseling and Psychotherapy
RN, CPMHN, CNP(Q)
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L4Z
As your certified psychiatric and mental health and nurse psychotherapist my passion is to be your supportive guide on your journey to mental well-being. Whether you are a young adult, a new or expectant mom. We can walk through your uncertainties together. Do you need a coach? Someone to talk with? Suffering with a difficult period in your life? Would you like to find that calm that you desire in your life? We can work together to manage levels of stress, anxiety or depression, Bipolar, BPD among many other illnesses.
As your certified psychiatric and mental health and nurse psychotherapist my passion is to be your supportive guide on your journey to mental well-being. Whether you are a young adult, a new or expectant mom. We can walk through your uncertainties together. Do you need a coach? Someone to talk with? Suffering with a difficult period in your life? Would you like to find that calm that you desire in your life? We can work together to manage levels of stress, anxiety or depression, Bipolar, BPD among many other illnesses.
(365) 601-6920 View (365) 601-6920
Photo of Shayna Nussbaum, Psychologist in Mississauga, ON
Shayna Nussbaum
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4T
I can help with a broad range of issues, from mood and anxiety issues a severe mental illness such as bipolar disorder.
I will be there for you, to understand you and give you lots of room for whatever comes up. I work with people who have experienced trauma, pain, and are struggling to make meaning. If you wonder whether your therapist is going to be able to hold space for everything you're bringing, I'm a good fit for you. Whether it's anger, shame, hopelessness, thoughts of death, or things you never told anyone, I will be there and I can help you hold it. I believe in the inherent dignity of all people, and it shows. I am also solution-focused. We do not just sit with pain, we figure out how to make meaning together, so you can live well again.
I can help with a broad range of issues, from mood and anxiety issues a severe mental illness such as bipolar disorder.
I will be there for you, to understand you and give you lots of room for whatever comes up. I work with people who have experienced trauma, pain, and are struggling to make meaning. If you wonder whether your therapist is going to be able to hold space for everything you're bringing, I'm a good fit for you. Whether it's anger, shame, hopelessness, thoughts of death, or things you never told anyone, I will be there and I can help you hold it. I believe in the inherent dignity of all people, and it shows. I am also solution-focused. We do not just sit with pain, we figure out how to make meaning together, so you can live well again.
(647) 954-0026 View (647) 954-0026
Photo of Marci Gray -Social Worker Emdr Psychotherapist, Registered Social Worker in Mississauga, ON
Marci Gray -Social Worker Emdr Psychotherapist
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4W
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 Devina Daya, Psychologist in Mississauga, ON
Devina Daya
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L4V
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 Arzu Ferguson, Psychologist in Mississauga, ON
Arzu Ferguson
Psychologist, MSc, CPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5B
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist in Ontario and Newfoundland with more than 25 years of experience. Connecting with people is the best part of my job. I thrive to provide a safe, caring, and nonjudgmental environment. I believe change and self-growth is possible at any point in life. Some of the conditions I treat and assess are Depression, Anxiety disorders (Panic attacks, Health Anxiety), Eating disorders, Adult ADHD and Autism. I provide psychological counselling for Grief, postpartum health and workplace stress. I also work with Canadian Veterans, Canadian Armed Forces, and First Responders.
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist in Ontario and Newfoundland with more than 25 years of experience. Connecting with people is the best part of my job. I thrive to provide a safe, caring, and nonjudgmental environment. I believe change and self-growth is possible at any point in life. Some of the conditions I treat and assess are Depression, Anxiety disorders (Panic attacks, Health Anxiety), Eating disorders, Adult ADHD and Autism. I provide psychological counselling for Grief, postpartum health and workplace stress. I also work with Canadian Veterans, Canadian Armed Forces, and First Responders.
(289) 302-5824 View (289) 302-5824
Photo of BeWell Mississauga Health Centre, Psychologist in Mississauga, ON
BeWell Mississauga Health Centre
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L5J
Dr. Pershad is an experienced Psychologist with a demonstrated history of working in both private and public health care spheres. Skilled in Clinical Practice, Supervision, Clinical Management, Consultation, and Program-Development. Dr. Pershad has an extensive background in professional settings that include: Private Individual and Group Practice, Corporate Mental Health Care Organizations, and Addiction Treatment.
Dr. Pershad is an experienced Psychologist with a demonstrated history of working in both private and public health care spheres. Skilled in Clinical Practice, Supervision, Clinical Management, Consultation, and Program-Development. Dr. Pershad has an extensive background in professional settings that include: Private Individual and Group Practice, Corporate Mental Health Care Organizations, and Addiction Treatment.
(289) 804-6115 View (289) 804-6115
Photo of Matthew King, Psychologist in Mississauga, ON
Matthew King
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5N
I strive to provide clients with a safe, non-judgmental, and warm environment where they can feel comfortable discussing the issues that are most distressing for them. I specialize in cognitive behavioural therapy for mood and anxiety disorders, insomnia, and psychosis. I also have experience with women's health issues (e.g., postpartum depression, menopause). I believe that my clients can make meaningful progress with the right tools and a genuine therapeutic relationship.
I strive to provide clients with a safe, non-judgmental, and warm environment where they can feel comfortable discussing the issues that are most distressing for them. I specialize in cognitive behavioural therapy for mood and anxiety disorders, insomnia, and psychosis. I also have experience with women's health issues (e.g., postpartum depression, menopause). I believe that my clients can make meaningful progress with the right tools and a genuine therapeutic relationship.
(844) 307-6483 View (844) 307-6483
Photo of Tijana Pesic, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Mississauga, ON
Tijana Pesic
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5J
I provide individual, couples & family therapy. Do you feel burdened by your thoughts? Are feeling overwhelmed? Do you find it challenging to fall asleep at night? Do you wish that you could just turn your mind off, to finally get a few moments of peace? I can help you take your life back, feel better, experience ease of being and get more restful sleep. I help individuals overcome anxiety, depression, burnout, overwhelm & stress. I also help couples who have many unmet needs; feel frustrated, resentful & angry in their relationship; struggle to communicate effectively; no longer experience intimacy or have lost trust.
I provide individual, couples & family therapy. Do you feel burdened by your thoughts? Are feeling overwhelmed? Do you find it challenging to fall asleep at night? Do you wish that you could just turn your mind off, to finally get a few moments of peace? I can help you take your life back, feel better, experience ease of being and get more restful sleep. I help individuals overcome anxiety, depression, burnout, overwhelm & stress. I also help couples who have many unmet needs; feel frustrated, resentful & angry in their relationship; struggle to communicate effectively; no longer experience intimacy or have lost trust.
(437) 747-8453 View (437) 747-8453
Photo of Marlee Harendorf-Gold, Registered Social Worker in Mississauga, ON
Marlee Harendorf-Gold
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CSAT, CPTT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5C
Are you someone who feels that your anxiety, depression or emotions are too overwhelming and painful? Are you someone who uses drugs or alcohol as a way to cope with and escape your pain? Are you someone who feels trapped in the dark cycle of addiction and mental health issues? Then you are not alone. Many people find themselves caught in the vicious cycle of trying to live with their emotional and mental health struggles, while turning to substances seeking relief only to find it for a fleeting moment followed by more pain. Reaching out for help is a hard first step towards healing, finding freedom from pain and breaking isolation.
Are you someone who feels that your anxiety, depression or emotions are too overwhelming and painful? Are you someone who uses drugs or alcohol as a way to cope with and escape your pain? Are you someone who feels trapped in the dark cycle of addiction and mental health issues? Then you are not alone. Many people find themselves caught in the vicious cycle of trying to live with their emotional and mental health struggles, while turning to substances seeking relief only to find it for a fleeting moment followed by more pain. Reaching out for help is a hard first step towards healing, finding freedom from pain and breaking isolation.
(289) 514-1840 View (289) 514-1840
Photo of Gulzar Firashta, Registered Psychotherapist in Mississauga, ON
Gulzar Firashta
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, RSSW
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L5V
With over 10 years of experience providing mental health services in community-based organizations and school systems, I bring a strong mix of approaches to help you explore your strength and move ahead in life. My objective is to help individuals and couples to thrive and achieve success in their personal lives and intimate relationships. I respect the uniqueness of every individual through active listening skills, empathy, and open-mindedness towards a variety of lifestyles and situations. I take a holistic approach with care and affection that allows for a safe, and comfortable space for clients to work in collaboration with me.
With over 10 years of experience providing mental health services in community-based organizations and school systems, I bring a strong mix of approaches to help you explore your strength and move ahead in life. My objective is to help individuals and couples to thrive and achieve success in their personal lives and intimate relationships. I respect the uniqueness of every individual through active listening skills, empathy, and open-mindedness towards a variety of lifestyles and situations. I take a holistic approach with care and affection that allows for a safe, and comfortable space for clients to work in collaboration with me.
(289) 277-6788 View (289) 277-6788
Photo of Jacqueline (Jackie) Salas @mindfulpsychology, Registered Psychotherapist in Mississauga, ON
Jacqueline (Jackie) Salas @mindfulpsychology
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L5G
I am a member of the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario, currently pursuing my registration with the College of Psychologists. Having worked in various clinical and forensic settings, I have developed an open awareness of the intersections of factors that shape clients’ mental health and well-being. I am respectful and considerate of cultural and contextual factors when offering support. My approach is warm, empathic, and grounded in humanistic principles while utilizing evidence-based interventions to help my client achieve his, her or their goals.
I am a member of the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario, currently pursuing my registration with the College of Psychologists. Having worked in various clinical and forensic settings, I have developed an open awareness of the intersections of factors that shape clients’ mental health and well-being. I am respectful and considerate of cultural and contextual factors when offering support. My approach is warm, empathic, and grounded in humanistic principles while utilizing evidence-based interventions to help my client achieve his, her or their goals.
(647) 794-5400 x5 View (647) 794-5400 x5
Photo of Katie McKie, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Mississauga, ON
Katie McKie
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5M
Life can be challenging, stressful and confusing at times, but we don’t have to go through it alone. Choosing therapy may not always feel easy, but I commend you for taking a pivotal step toward a more empowered life. As a counsellor, I am dedicated to providing you a safe, non-judgmental space where you can navigate this journey of self-discovery, healing and growth.
Life can be challenging, stressful and confusing at times, but we don’t have to go through it alone. Choosing therapy may not always feel easy, but I commend you for taking a pivotal step toward a more empowered life. As a counsellor, I am dedicated to providing you a safe, non-judgmental space where you can navigate this journey of self-discovery, healing and growth.
(365) 659-4917 View (365) 659-4917
Photo of Soulscape Services: Psychotherapy & Wellness Hub, Registered Psychotherapist in Mississauga, ON
Soulscape Services: Psychotherapy & Wellness Hub
Registered Psychotherapist, BAHon, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L5B
Life is nothing short of amazing. It's amazing how much we can go through and live to tell about it. It's amazing how fast kids grow up and time flies, how angry a co-worker can make you, how much compassion we can seem to have for others when we struggle to offer any to ourselves. It's amazing how much we put on our plates when all we need is to rest. It's amazing how much we can long for understanding and connection and how much opportunity can be missed right in front of our eyes. It's amazing how short life is. It's also amazing how much we can learn in the time we have, and how little steps can amount to such massive change.
Life is nothing short of amazing. It's amazing how much we can go through and live to tell about it. It's amazing how fast kids grow up and time flies, how angry a co-worker can make you, how much compassion we can seem to have for others when we struggle to offer any to ourselves. It's amazing how much we put on our plates when all we need is to rest. It's amazing how much we can long for understanding and connection and how much opportunity can be missed right in front of our eyes. It's amazing how short life is. It's also amazing how much we can learn in the time we have, and how little steps can amount to such massive change.
(437) 747-2975 View (437) 747-2975

See more therapy options for Mississauga

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.