Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Tucson, AZ

Photo of Adam K Lovallo - Adam Lovallo Counseling, Counselor, MC, LPC
Adam Lovallo Counseling
Counselor, MC, LPC
5 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with adults, couples, and families, specializing in anxiety, bipolar disorder, sleep issues, addictions (substance, shopping, gambling, gaming, internet, sex, porn), and coming out.
People often seek professional counseling services for a wide range of reasons—whether they’re struggling with life challenges, relationship issues, mental health concerns, or are simply seeking personal growth and stronger coping skills. As a licensedtherapist, my role is to help individuals gain insight into their thoughts, emotions and behaviors, while working together to develop effective strategies and real-world solutions. Whether it’s managing stress and anxiety, navigating life transitions, or improving relationships, I strive to create a supportive and collaborative space where healing & personal growth can truly take root.
I work with adults, couples, and families, specializing in anxiety, bipolar disorder, sleep issues, addictions (substance, shopping, gambling, gaming, internet, sex, porn), and coming out.
People often seek professional counseling services for a wide range of reasons—whether they’re struggling with life challenges, relationship issues, mental health concerns, or are simply seeking personal growth and stronger coping skills. As a licensedtherapist, my role is to help individuals gain insight into their thoughts, emotions and behaviors, while working together to develop effective strategies and real-world solutions. Whether it’s managing stress and anxiety, navigating life transitions, or improving relationships, I strive to create a supportive and collaborative space where healing & personal growth can truly take root.
(520) 224-1007 View (520) 224-1007
Photo of Emilie Burns, Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Emilie Burns
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My clinical experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings has allowed me to build the skills necessary to treat a wide variety of issues including Bipolar Disorders, Borderline Personality Disorder, Substance Abuse, Trauma and Anxiety.
I’m a licensed therapist who takes a collaborative, personalized approach to therapy—grounded in curiosity, connection, and care. I’ve worked with people from all walks of life, and I care about creating a space where all parts of you feel welcome. I believe in an individualized approach; therapy with me is tailored to who you are, what you’ve lived through, and where you want to go.
My clinical experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings has allowed me to build the skills necessary to treat a wide variety of issues including Bipolar Disorders, Borderline Personality Disorder, Substance Abuse, Trauma and Anxiety.
I’m a licensed therapist who takes a collaborative, personalized approach to therapy—grounded in curiosity, connection, and care. I’ve worked with people from all walks of life, and I care about creating a space where all parts of you feel welcome. I believe in an individualized approach; therapy with me is tailored to who you are, what you’ve lived through, and where you want to go.
(520) 492-1659 View (520) 492-1659
Photo of Hannah Vorhauer-Reams, Counselor, LAC
Hannah Vorhauer-Reams
Counselor, LAC
Tucson, AZ 85712
The main issues I can help you with emotion regulation, addiction, trauma, depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
My ideal client is someone who is ready to make a change in their life, even if they are not sure what that could look like. I love being able to help clients better understand parts of themselves and acknowledge feelings. My ideal client is willing to work on, or consider working on, trauma resolution. Many people are often pulled down by unacknowledged feelings and trauma and do not what to do about it. I am honored to be that person that someone can sit with to resolve and work through these issues without judgement.
The main issues I can help you with emotion regulation, addiction, trauma, depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
My ideal client is someone who is ready to make a change in their life, even if they are not sure what that could look like. I love being able to help clients better understand parts of themselves and acknowledge feelings. My ideal client is willing to work on, or consider working on, trauma resolution. Many people are often pulled down by unacknowledged feelings and trauma and do not what to do about it. I am honored to be that person that someone can sit with to resolve and work through these issues without judgement.
(520) 423-5600 x4183 View (520) 423-5600 x4183
Photo of Eric Scott Rosmith, Psychologist, PhD
Eric Scott Rosmith
Psychologist, PhD
Online Only
Particular speciality areas include: Anxiety; ADHD; Bipolar Disorder; Borderline Personality Disorder; Crisis Intervention; Depression; Dissociative Disorders; and, PTSD.
My name is Dr. Eric and I use an integrative approach to treatment, combining evidence-based techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Interpersonal Psychotherapy. I work collaboratively with you to create a comfortable and non-judgmental space where you feel empowered to explore difficulties and set realistic, meaningful goals. I also provide honest and compassionate feedback to help you develop alternative perspectives, gain insight into underlying issues, and identify your unique strengths. In leveraging these strengths, you will feel more fulfilled and achieve greater balance in your life.
Particular speciality areas include: Anxiety; ADHD; Bipolar Disorder; Borderline Personality Disorder; Crisis Intervention; Depression; Dissociative Disorders; and, PTSD.
My name is Dr. Eric and I use an integrative approach to treatment, combining evidence-based techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Interpersonal Psychotherapy. I work collaboratively with you to create a comfortable and non-judgmental space where you feel empowered to explore difficulties and set realistic, meaningful goals. I also provide honest and compassionate feedback to help you develop alternative perspectives, gain insight into underlying issues, and identify your unique strengths. In leveraging these strengths, you will feel more fulfilled and achieve greater balance in your life.
(928) 218-6133 View (928) 218-6133
Photo of Ann Unrast, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Ann Unrast
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and life transitions.
I work with teens, adults, couples, and families facing anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. I value each person’s story and tailor treatment to support healing, growth, and empowerment at your pace.
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and life transitions.
I work with teens, adults, couples, and families facing anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. I value each person’s story and tailor treatment to support healing, growth, and empowerment at your pace.
(520) 423-5600 x4183 View (520) 423-5600 x4183
Photo of Tidi Ozeri, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Tidi Ozeri
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Whether you struggle with stress, anxiety, depression, relationships, childhood trauma, bipolar disorder or ADHD, I can help you learn coping skills to tackle these issues.
I will bring my compassion and nonjudgmental approach and utilize my professional skills to help you achieve the goals that you define. If you need support to better understand the elements at play in your life, I will be honored to accompany and assist, guide and encourage you on your journey toward your goals.
Whether you struggle with stress, anxiety, depression, relationships, childhood trauma, bipolar disorder or ADHD, I can help you learn coping skills to tackle these issues.
I will bring my compassion and nonjudgmental approach and utilize my professional skills to help you achieve the goals that you define. If you need support to better understand the elements at play in your life, I will be honored to accompany and assist, guide and encourage you on your journey toward your goals.
(520) 436-9567 View (520) 436-9567
Photo of Antonio Fernandez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Antonio Fernandez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Tucson, AZ 85710
By listening to the client, we select the best treatment option to address trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, addiction including gambling, dissociative disorders, bipolar disorder, dual diagnosis, mood disorders, eating disorder or cultural transition.
Healing the soul wound. With over 40 years of experience, my approach is holistic to heal the soul wound created from past experiences, to heal in the present and to live in balance in the future. I am Licensed Clinical Social Work, bilingual (Spanish/ English) therapist. It is my experience as a therapist working with diverse cultures, whether the soul wound is created by family experiences, past trauma as a child or as an adult, clients can heal.
By listening to the client, we select the best treatment option to address trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, addiction including gambling, dissociative disorders, bipolar disorder, dual diagnosis, mood disorders, eating disorder or cultural transition.
Healing the soul wound. With over 40 years of experience, my approach is holistic to heal the soul wound created from past experiences, to heal in the present and to live in balance in the future. I am Licensed Clinical Social Work, bilingual (Spanish/ English) therapist. It is my experience as a therapist working with diverse cultures, whether the soul wound is created by family experiences, past trauma as a child or as an adult, clients can heal.
(520) 438-5504 x101 View (520) 438-5504 x101
Photo of Linda A Chernus, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Linda A Chernus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Tucson, AZ 85713
In addition to people experiencing anxiety, depression and other problems associated with daily living, I have expertise working with individuals and families struggling with PTSD, dissociative disorders, bipolar disorders, and dual diagnoses of substance abuse and mental health problems.
I believe that individual psychotherapy can help clients more fully understand themselves, which in turn makes change more possible. I connect with my clients as empathically as possible, as I believe that the quality of the therapeutic relationship is very important in psychotherapy. When working with couples and families, I use a family systems approach.
In addition to people experiencing anxiety, depression and other problems associated with daily living, I have expertise working with individuals and families struggling with PTSD, dissociative disorders, bipolar disorders, and dual diagnoses of substance abuse and mental health problems.
I believe that individual psychotherapy can help clients more fully understand themselves, which in turn makes change more possible. I connect with my clients as empathically as possible, as I believe that the quality of the therapeutic relationship is very important in psychotherapy. When working with couples and families, I use a family systems approach.
(513) 808-4442 View (513) 808-4442
Photo of Jennifer Parish, Counselor, MA, LAC, NCC
Jennifer Parish
Counselor, MA, LAC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85712
Specializing in addiction, trauma, PTSD, substance use, anger management, anxiety, bipolar disorder, codependency, coping skills, depression, divorce, domestic abuse, violence, drug abuse, and family conflict,
I am deeply aware of the profound effects that stress, anxiety, and unresolved trauma can have on every aspect of our lives. They can weigh heavily on our relationships, careers, families, and self-worth; leaving us feeling trapped and unable to move forward. I believe that fear and anxiety do not have to dictate our daily thoughts and actions. Through my work, I am passionate about guiding clients towards a path of healing. If you're ready to take that first step towards a brighter tomorrow.
Specializing in addiction, trauma, PTSD, substance use, anger management, anxiety, bipolar disorder, codependency, coping skills, depression, divorce, domestic abuse, violence, drug abuse, and family conflict,
I am deeply aware of the profound effects that stress, anxiety, and unresolved trauma can have on every aspect of our lives. They can weigh heavily on our relationships, careers, families, and self-worth; leaving us feeling trapped and unable to move forward. I believe that fear and anxiety do not have to dictate our daily thoughts and actions. Through my work, I am passionate about guiding clients towards a path of healing. If you're ready to take that first step towards a brighter tomorrow.
(520) 224-9496 View (520) 224-9496
Photo of Nadene Cheri Nappi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Nadene Cheri Nappi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
3 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85705
When working with children, teens, and adults, I offer a supportive space where we can explore life’s challenges together—whether you’re navigating school stress, life transitions, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or working on building self-acceptance and resilience.
My approach is eclectic and tailored to each client’s unique needs. I draw from art therapy, mindfulness practices, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and attachment theory to help foster insight, healing, and growth. I believe in the power of humor to ease tough conversations and create a comfortable, genuine connection in therapy.
When working with children, teens, and adults, I offer a supportive space where we can explore life’s challenges together—whether you’re navigating school stress, life transitions, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or working on building self-acceptance and resilience.
My approach is eclectic and tailored to each client’s unique needs. I draw from art therapy, mindfulness practices, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and attachment theory to help foster insight, healing, and growth. I believe in the power of humor to ease tough conversations and create a comfortable, genuine connection in therapy.
(520) 523-2507 View (520) 523-2507
Photo of Mark Wardlow, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mark Wardlow
Licensed Professional Counselor
Online Only
All I can say is that I’d love to help! Stress, Anxiety Addictions Self esteem Depression Coaching Also experienced in: Relationship issues , Family conflicts , Trauma and abuse , Grief , Intimacy-related issues , Sleeping disorders , Anger management , Career difficulties , Bipolar disorder , Coping with life changes , Compassion fatigue , ADHD
All I can say is that I’d love to help! Stress, Anxiety Addictions Self esteem Depression Coaching Also experienced in: Relationship issues , Family conflicts , Trauma and abuse , Grief , Intimacy-related issues , Sleeping disorders , Anger management , Career difficulties , Bipolar disorder , Coping with life changes , Compassion fatigue , ADHD
(520) 645-2924 View (520) 645-2924
Photo of Jessica Kingsley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Kingsley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Online Only
I specialize in working with individuals dealing with psychosis, schizophrenia, stress, perinatal support (pregnancy, prenatal, postpartum), addiction, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, life transitions, and suicidal ideation or self-harming behaviors.
Hello, I'm Jessica. Life is full of ups and downs, and in recent times, many of us have experienced more 'downs' than usual. Maybe you're looking to connect with someone impartial to help you get back 'up,' or perhaps you're facing a major life change that has left you feeling stuck. You might have realized that past events or memories are causing more trouble in your day-to-day life than ever before. While life is unpredictable, one thing is certain: we all need a little help sometimes, and it's okay to ask for it.
I specialize in working with individuals dealing with psychosis, schizophrenia, stress, perinatal support (pregnancy, prenatal, postpartum), addiction, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, life transitions, and suicidal ideation or self-harming behaviors.
Hello, I'm Jessica. Life is full of ups and downs, and in recent times, many of us have experienced more 'downs' than usual. Maybe you're looking to connect with someone impartial to help you get back 'up,' or perhaps you're facing a major life change that has left you feeling stuck. You might have realized that past events or memories are causing more trouble in your day-to-day life than ever before. While life is unpredictable, one thing is certain: we all need a little help sometimes, and it's okay to ask for it.
(623) 288-3398 View (623) 288-3398
Photo of Paula Mistovich, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paula Mistovich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Online Only
I work with grief, including traumatic grief, emotional issues including depression, anxiety, ADHD and bipolar diagnoses.
I believe the strengths and tools you developed in the past can help you with the difficulties in your present life, be they day to day challenges or pain that has been there for a long time. I have a saying that 'there is nothing we can't get through together,' and with me by your side, I hope you can face and overcome the challenges in front of you. I have learned that developing a trusting relationship in the first thing that needs to happen in 'good therapy.'
I work with grief, including traumatic grief, emotional issues including depression, anxiety, ADHD and bipolar diagnoses.
I believe the strengths and tools you developed in the past can help you with the difficulties in your present life, be they day to day challenges or pain that has been there for a long time. I have a saying that 'there is nothing we can't get through together,' and with me by your side, I hope you can face and overcome the challenges in front of you. I have learned that developing a trusting relationship in the first thing that needs to happen in 'good therapy.'
(928) 770-2244 View (928) 770-2244
Photo of Diane Soteras, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diane Soteras
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Online Only
I specialize in helping clients navigate issues related to substance misuse and dependence, co-occuring disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, stress management and relationship loss/betrayal.
I am dedicated to helping you uncover the sources of your challenges and empowering you to overcome them. Whether you're dealing with addiction, anxiety, depression, or relationship issues, I'm here to support you every step of the way.
I specialize in helping clients navigate issues related to substance misuse and dependence, co-occuring disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, stress management and relationship loss/betrayal.
I am dedicated to helping you uncover the sources of your challenges and empowering you to overcome them. Whether you're dealing with addiction, anxiety, depression, or relationship issues, I'm here to support you every step of the way.
(623) 292-4417 View (623) 292-4417
Photo of James Grace, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC
James Grace
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC
Online Only
I specialize in helping adults overcome challenges such as Anxiety Disorders, Major Depressive Disorders, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, narcissistic abuse, family issues, Adjustment Disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, anger issues, substance use, and OCD.
My ideal client is someone passionately committed to deepening their understanding of mental health. I value clients who actively collaborate to find evidence-based solutions for their concerns, maintain an open mind, and are dedicated to their mental and emotional well-being. Let’s partner together to unlock your potential and create lasting positive change.
I specialize in helping adults overcome challenges such as Anxiety Disorders, Major Depressive Disorders, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, narcissistic abuse, family issues, Adjustment Disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, anger issues, substance use, and OCD.
My ideal client is someone passionately committed to deepening their understanding of mental health. I value clients who actively collaborate to find evidence-based solutions for their concerns, maintain an open mind, and are dedicated to their mental and emotional well-being. Let’s partner together to unlock your potential and create lasting positive change.
(970) 512-5062 View (970) 512-5062
Photo of Davis Plunkett, Licensed Professional Counselor
Davis Plunkett
Licensed Professional Counselor
Online Only
Whether you're dealing with anger management, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, dissociative disorders
Hello, I'm Davis. With over 25 years of clinical experience, I am a true believer in the practice of mindfulness and the ability to change through determination, accountability, and a willingness to try new methodologies towards an improved state of mind. I received a Bachelor of Science Degree with honors in psychology from Franklin Pierce University in Rindge, New Hampshire, and graduated with a Master of Social Work Degree from San Diego State University. I have had my LCSW with the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners since 2005 and also serve on the Clinical Supervisory Board. Additionally,
Whether you're dealing with anger management, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, dissociative disorders
Hello, I'm Davis. With over 25 years of clinical experience, I am a true believer in the practice of mindfulness and the ability to change through determination, accountability, and a willingness to try new methodologies towards an improved state of mind. I received a Bachelor of Science Degree with honors in psychology from Franklin Pierce University in Rindge, New Hampshire, and graduated with a Master of Social Work Degree from San Diego State University. I have had my LCSW with the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners since 2005 and also serve on the Clinical Supervisory Board. Additionally,
(480) 405-5693 View (480) 405-5693
Photo of Christine Hayes, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christine Hayes
Licensed Professional Counselor
Online Only
I specialize in a variety of areas, including anger management, anxiety, bipolar disorder, children's and adolescent mental and behavioral health, depression, family relationships, grief and bereavement, OCD, perinatal support, PTSD, intimate and romantic relationships, spirituality, stress, and trauma.
Hello, I'm Christine, a Licensed Professional Counselor and the founder of Sunnyshores Counseling. I graduated from Grand Canyon University with a Master's degree in Professional Counseling in 2012. With over a decade of experience, I have dedicated my career to helping individuals harness their strengths to empower themselves, enjoy their lives, and increase their overall happiness.
I specialize in a variety of areas, including anger management, anxiety, bipolar disorder, children's and adolescent mental and behavioral health, depression, family relationships, grief and bereavement, OCD, perinatal support, PTSD, intimate and romantic relationships, spirituality, stress, and trauma.
Hello, I'm Christine, a Licensed Professional Counselor and the founder of Sunnyshores Counseling. I graduated from Grand Canyon University with a Master's degree in Professional Counseling in 2012. With over a decade of experience, I have dedicated my career to helping individuals harness their strengths to empower themselves, enjoy their lives, and increase their overall happiness.
(480) 685-8721 View (480) 685-8721
Photo of Robin San George, Counselor, MA, LAC
Robin San George
Counselor, MA, LAC
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Additionally, I have extensive experience working with adults of all ages with general mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and PTSD.
I am a Licensed Associate Counselor and have been working in behavioral health since 2013. I love making genuine connections with my clients while providing individualized guidance throughout the healing process. I strongly believe that helping people to realize and trust that they are not alone in their struggles or trauma is always such a beneficial first step in establishing a solid foundation in our work together.
Additionally, I have extensive experience working with adults of all ages with general mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and PTSD.
I am a Licensed Associate Counselor and have been working in behavioral health since 2013. I love making genuine connections with my clients while providing individualized guidance throughout the healing process. I strongly believe that helping people to realize and trust that they are not alone in their struggles or trauma is always such a beneficial first step in establishing a solid foundation in our work together.
(602) 663-9122 View (602) 663-9122
Photo of Katherine Campbell, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LAAC, NCC
Katherine Campbell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LAAC, NCC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My primary focus lies in mood disorders—specifically anxiety, depression, the bipolar spectrum, and trauma.
You're the narrator of your story—I'm simply here to help guide you toward your goals. My role is to assist you in setting clear objectives, identifying any barriers to growth, and offering suggestions to help you move forward. This may involve reflecting on past experiences to uncover patterns or behaviors that might be holding you back, or it might mean validating what you're already doing right. Either way, I'm here to help you get to where you want to be. I'm looking for reliable and actively motivated clients to make desired changes.
My primary focus lies in mood disorders—specifically anxiety, depression, the bipolar spectrum, and trauma.
You're the narrator of your story—I'm simply here to help guide you toward your goals. My role is to assist you in setting clear objectives, identifying any barriers to growth, and offering suggestions to help you move forward. This may involve reflecting on past experiences to uncover patterns or behaviors that might be holding you back, or it might mean validating what you're already doing right. Either way, I'm here to help you get to where you want to be. I'm looking for reliable and actively motivated clients to make desired changes.
(520) 492-1242 View (520) 492-1242
Photo of Renee Garnier, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Renee Garnier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Online Only
I specialize in treating a variety of concerns, including anxiety, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, children's mental and behavioral health, depression, family relationships, grief and bereavement, intimate and romantic relationships, life transitions, stress, and perinatal support (pregnancy, prenatal, and postpartum).
Hello, I'm Renee, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 13 years of experience in providing counseling to individuals. My approach to therapy is rooted in the belief that the key to successful treatment lies in the therapeutic relationship. I strive to create a collaborative, open, and safe environment where we can work together to address your unique needs and challenges. In our first few sessions, we will develop an individualized treatment plan tailored specifically to you. I utilize a combination of therapeutic techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
I specialize in treating a variety of concerns, including anxiety, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, children's mental and behavioral health, depression, family relationships, grief and bereavement, intimate and romantic relationships, life transitions, stress, and perinatal support (pregnancy, prenatal, and postpartum).
Hello, I'm Renee, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 13 years of experience in providing counseling to individuals. My approach to therapy is rooted in the belief that the key to successful treatment lies in the therapeutic relationship. I strive to create a collaborative, open, and safe environment where we can work together to address your unique needs and challenges. In our first few sessions, we will develop an individualized treatment plan tailored specifically to you. I utilize a combination of therapeutic techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
(520) 630-2719 View (520) 630-2719

See more therapy options for Tucson

Bipolar Disorder Therapists

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.