Photo of Kristine Mill, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Kristine Mill
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85048
My specialities of focus are individual session with children 9 years or older/teens/adults with anxiety, depression, bipolar, mood disorder, PTSD, OCD.
I have been in practice since 1997. I am Licensed Professional Counselor as well as an Advanced Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Certified Clinician (CBT-C) & Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP) to address anxiety and depression. I believe it is the relationship with the patient and therapist which are significant to build trust and in turn facilitate change. It is important to have a treatment plan to set goals to learn healthy coping skills to address negative thought patterns. The recent years have brought such change in how we work, attend school, have relationships, and work through adversity. Therapy is key.
My specialities of focus are individual session with children 9 years or older/teens/adults with anxiety, depression, bipolar, mood disorder, PTSD, OCD.
I have been in practice since 1997. I am Licensed Professional Counselor as well as an Advanced Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Certified Clinician (CBT-C) & Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP) to address anxiety and depression. I believe it is the relationship with the patient and therapist which are significant to build trust and in turn facilitate change. It is important to have a treatment plan to set goals to learn healthy coping skills to address negative thought patterns. The recent years have brought such change in how we work, attend school, have relationships, and work through adversity. Therapy is key.
(480) 322-3197 View (480) 322-3197
Photo of Lauren J Border, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Lauren J Border
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW, MSW, BSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85023
I have worked with individuals with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, grief, trauma, and have directly served the perinatal population in Phoenix with training in trauma treatments and perinatal mood disorders.
Have you been feeling disconnected? Do you often shut-down emotionally, feel overwhelmed, panicked, or ashamed? Have you struggled in relationships, waiting for and expecting the other shoe to drop? Do you find yourself giving and giving, but getting little in return? Do you frequently criticize yourself or others? You are not alone, and you are not broken. You developed these patterns to help you survive pain and difficulty. In a safe and healing environment, we can learn about and shed unhealthy patterns. You can find safety in your body and connect with yourself so you can stop surviving and start living the life you deserve!
I have worked with individuals with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, grief, trauma, and have directly served the perinatal population in Phoenix with training in trauma treatments and perinatal mood disorders.
Have you been feeling disconnected? Do you often shut-down emotionally, feel overwhelmed, panicked, or ashamed? Have you struggled in relationships, waiting for and expecting the other shoe to drop? Do you find yourself giving and giving, but getting little in return? Do you frequently criticize yourself or others? You are not alone, and you are not broken. You developed these patterns to help you survive pain and difficulty. In a safe and healing environment, we can learn about and shed unhealthy patterns. You can find safety in your body and connect with yourself so you can stop surviving and start living the life you deserve!
(623) 288-0054 View (623) 288-0054
Photo of Robin San George, Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Robin San George
Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016  (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 Aynne Henry, Psychologist in Phoenix, AZ
Aynne Henry
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85018
I enjoy treating clients others may find trying - high conflict couples, bipolar, and medically ill.
My practice is unique. I treat two groups of clients: One is very high functioning - the highly successful professional who wants to improve personal strengths, interpersonal interactions, relationships, and intimacy. The second set are those who have been struggling with a diagnosable mental or physical illness that has not been effectively managed. Both may need various clinical treatments which include therapies such as Interpersonal Social Rhythm Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy (Couples & Family), Cognitive-Behavior Therapy (CBT) or trauma oriented skills such as Prolonged Exposure Therapy, Hypnosis, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) - Feeling-State Addiction Therapy, Relaxation & Mindfulness.
I enjoy treating clients others may find trying - high conflict couples, bipolar, and medically ill.
My practice is unique. I treat two groups of clients: One is very high functioning - the highly successful professional who wants to improve personal strengths, interpersonal interactions, relationships, and intimacy. The second set are those who have been struggling with a diagnosable mental or physical illness that has not been effectively managed. Both may need various clinical treatments which include therapies such as Interpersonal Social Rhythm Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy (Couples & Family), Cognitive-Behavior Therapy (CBT) or trauma oriented skills such as Prolonged Exposure Therapy, Hypnosis, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) - Feeling-State Addiction Therapy, Relaxation & Mindfulness.
(602) 957-2336 View (602) 957-2336
Photo of Antonio Rojelio Alarcon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Antonio Rojelio Alarcon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85014  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Antonio. I have 8 years of experience in treating adult males experiencing addiction, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, depression, and trauma related disorders (PTSD, C-PTSD). At the core of my practice is the intension to provide a safe, compassionate, unconditional, and collaborative relationship with you for the purposes of making meaningful progress towards personal growth goals.
Hello, my name is Antonio. I have 8 years of experience in treating adult males experiencing addiction, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, depression, and trauma related disorders (PTSD, C-PTSD). At the core of my practice is the intension to provide a safe, compassionate, unconditional, and collaborative relationship with you for the purposes of making meaningful progress towards personal growth goals.
(480) 571-9240 View (480) 571-9240
Photo of Meliora Counseling & Wellness , Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Meliora Counseling & Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS , LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85029
We treat Child/Adolescent Behavioral Concerns, Self-harm behaviors, ADHD,Depression, Anxiety, Trauma/PTS, Personality Disorders, Bipolar Disorder Perinatal Depression, Eating Disorders, Self esteem issues, Gender identity and Body Dysmorphia
We treat Child/Adolescent Behavioral Concerns, Self-harm behaviors, ADHD,Depression, Anxiety, Trauma/PTS, Personality Disorders, Bipolar Disorder Perinatal Depression, Eating Disorders, Self esteem issues, Gender identity and Body Dysmorphia
(623) 343-2390 View (623) 343-2390
Photo of Lezlee Hays, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Lezlee Hays
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSc, LPC, BHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85020
I am skilled in working a range of challenges including: anxiety, depression, grief and loss, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, PTSD, Bipolar, trauma, parenting challenges, and life transitions such as divorce.
My goal is to work collaboratively with you so that you get what you need out of therapy. I believe I offer a uniquely comforting style of therapy. I am a trained trauma therapist and an EMDR practitioner with seasoned experience working in public health as well as private practice. As a trauma informed therapist I believe in a holistic approach to healing. I believe in the unique power of each individual to achieve positive change and overcome challenges. I believe the relationship you form with your counselor is extremely important to the healing process.
I am skilled in working a range of challenges including: anxiety, depression, grief and loss, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, PTSD, Bipolar, trauma, parenting challenges, and life transitions such as divorce.
My goal is to work collaboratively with you so that you get what you need out of therapy. I believe I offer a uniquely comforting style of therapy. I am a trained trauma therapist and an EMDR practitioner with seasoned experience working in public health as well as private practice. As a trauma informed therapist I believe in a holistic approach to healing. I believe in the unique power of each individual to achieve positive change and overcome challenges. I believe the relationship you form with your counselor is extremely important to the healing process.
(602) 833-4662 View (602) 833-4662
Photo of More Life Counseling Services, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
More Life Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS LPC , BHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85015
I enjoy working with families struggling with interpersonal relationships, pre and post marital issues, communication difficulties, substance abuse, and trauma. I have experience working with individuals dealing with addictions and recovery, depression, stress, anxiety, bipolar disorder, self esteem, grief, anger management, self harming issues, and borderline personality disorder.
I enjoy working with families struggling with interpersonal relationships, pre and post marital issues, communication difficulties, substance abuse, and trauma. I have experience working with individuals dealing with addictions and recovery, depression, stress, anxiety, bipolar disorder, self esteem, grief, anger management, self harming issues, and borderline personality disorder.
(623) 469-7840 View (623) 469-7840
Photo of Diane B Soteras, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Diane B Soteras
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85012
I have been assisting individuals, couples, groups and families navigate the difficulties that accompany Substance Abuse/Dependence, Dual-Diagnosis, Narcissistic Abuse Survivor Recovery and relationship difficulties for over 20 years. My experience supporting and guiding clients through theses life experiences has taught me that what we can usually expect to find beneath these presenting behaviors can be a mix of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, betrayal, trauma and stress. This is what creates unmanageability. Together we will design healthy coping skills and boundaries in order to create awareness and restore manageability.
I have been assisting individuals, couples, groups and families navigate the difficulties that accompany Substance Abuse/Dependence, Dual-Diagnosis, Narcissistic Abuse Survivor Recovery and relationship difficulties for over 20 years. My experience supporting and guiding clients through theses life experiences has taught me that what we can usually expect to find beneath these presenting behaviors can be a mix of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, betrayal, trauma and stress. This is what creates unmanageability. Together we will design healthy coping skills and boundaries in order to create awareness and restore manageability.
(224) 218-9053 View (224) 218-9053
Photo of Adam Lovallo Counseling , Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Adam Lovallo Counseling
Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85032  (Online Only)
I specialize in individual counseling, with experience working on the following issues: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, sleep disorders, grief, LGBTQ, adoption, substance abuse and video game addiction, as well low self-esteem.
I am Telehealth Therapist, licensed to serve Arizona residents. As a seasoned Licensed Professional Counselor for over 25 years, my job is to help you to address the challenges in your life by providing you with a safe space to discover and embrace your true authentic self first and foremost. I can help you achieve this by providing you with constructive feedback coupled with unconditional positive regard and encouragement. In therapy I will also help you to understand how your thoughts and behavior affect your feelings. So let's move you from a place of simply existing and enduring life to actually living life to its fullest!
I specialize in individual counseling, with experience working on the following issues: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, sleep disorders, grief, LGBTQ, adoption, substance abuse and video game addiction, as well low self-esteem.
I am Telehealth Therapist, licensed to serve Arizona residents. As a seasoned Licensed Professional Counselor for over 25 years, my job is to help you to address the challenges in your life by providing you with a safe space to discover and embrace your true authentic self first and foremost. I can help you achieve this by providing you with constructive feedback coupled with unconditional positive regard and encouragement. In therapy I will also help you to understand how your thoughts and behavior affect your feelings. So let's move you from a place of simply existing and enduring life to actually living life to its fullest!
(520) 224-1007 View (520) 224-1007
Photo of Todd Basta, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Todd Basta
Licensed Professional Counselor, MBA, LPC, BC-TMH, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85037
Hello and welcome. I am an experienced psychotherapist; serving diverse populations. My theoretical orientation (approach) is based on Carl Rogers "Person Centered". My education and training in ‘community health’ has enabled me the opportunity to serve high-need populations with a wide variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, personality disorders, Bipolar, (OCD), and neurodiverse populations. I use a direct and clinical approach with my clients; identifying and addressing key client issues, quickly, in an ethical and confidential manner.
Hello and welcome. I am an experienced psychotherapist; serving diverse populations. My theoretical orientation (approach) is based on Carl Rogers "Person Centered". My education and training in ‘community health’ has enabled me the opportunity to serve high-need populations with a wide variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, personality disorders, Bipolar, (OCD), and neurodiverse populations. I use a direct and clinical approach with my clients; identifying and addressing key client issues, quickly, in an ethical and confidential manner.
(480) 485-6708 View (480) 485-6708
Photo of Christopher Trotman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Christopher Trotman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85003  (Online Only)
My experience, including living with sickle cell anemia, allows me to specialize in chronic illness, pain, emotional regulation, depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar disorder and other related issues.
Hey there! If you're here, you may be starting (or continuing) a journey of self-discovery. As a dedicated licensed master social worker, I'm honored to assist you. I know reaching out for help can be difficult sometimes. If you’re willing to take that intimidating first step, I promise you- I will do my best in helping make it as easy and enjoyable for you as I possibly can. I aim to create a healing space, where we'll laugh together, you may cry, and you'll feel ready to overcome challenges. Shoot me an email and we'll schedule a free 15 min consultation! Now accepting clients in both MD and AZ
My experience, including living with sickle cell anemia, allows me to specialize in chronic illness, pain, emotional regulation, depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar disorder and other related issues.
Hey there! If you're here, you may be starting (or continuing) a journey of self-discovery. As a dedicated licensed master social worker, I'm honored to assist you. I know reaching out for help can be difficult sometimes. If you’re willing to take that intimidating first step, I promise you- I will do my best in helping make it as easy and enjoyable for you as I possibly can. I aim to create a healing space, where we'll laugh together, you may cry, and you'll feel ready to overcome challenges. Shoot me an email and we'll schedule a free 15 min consultation! Now accepting clients in both MD and AZ
(301) 851-0601 View (301) 851-0601
Photo of Kristen Radke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Kristen Radke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85054  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients / Teletherapy or equine assisted psychotherapy / EAGALA (weather permitting). I primarily treat anxiety, depression, bipolar, relational and/or marital issues, and life transitions. I also provide Christian/biblical therapy upon request. Working with me you'll learn to be more present, feel less anxious, communicate your feelings and thoughts, process through past hurts, set healthy boundaries, and learn to move forward. Let me help you bring a more balanced perspective to your life.
Accepting new clients / Teletherapy or equine assisted psychotherapy / EAGALA (weather permitting). I primarily treat anxiety, depression, bipolar, relational and/or marital issues, and life transitions. I also provide Christian/biblical therapy upon request. Working with me you'll learn to be more present, feel less anxious, communicate your feelings and thoughts, process through past hurts, set healthy boundaries, and learn to move forward. Let me help you bring a more balanced perspective to your life.
(480) 630-4187 View (480) 630-4187
Photo of Statewide Serenity Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Statewide Serenity Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, TF-CBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85018  (Online Only)
Are you or a loved one suffering from emotional stress, depression, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, or anxiety? Are you questioning the endurance of your relationships or marriage? Now is the time to make changes to improve your quality of life. My passion for family, ministry, and living my divine purpose of serving others, can provide the support that you need. I have experience with addressing a variety of symptoms and diagnoses, and enjoy working with diverse populations to reach their potential to achieve stability.
Are you or a loved one suffering from emotional stress, depression, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, or anxiety? Are you questioning the endurance of your relationships or marriage? Now is the time to make changes to improve your quality of life. My passion for family, ministry, and living my divine purpose of serving others, can provide the support that you need. I have experience with addressing a variety of symptoms and diagnoses, and enjoy working with diverse populations to reach their potential to achieve stability.
(936) 703-2076 View (936) 703-2076
Photo of Eddie Lee Blakes Jr., Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Eddie Lee Blakes Jr.
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MSAC, LISAC, BHP
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85017
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, LGBTQIA+ issues, anger, grief, loss, loneliness, addictions, trauma, discrimination, or a lack of motivation? You're not alone. I'm here to introduce you to an incredibly compassionate and experienced therapist who is ready to support you on your journey towards healing and growth. With immediate openings for new patients, this therapist is committed to providing a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. As an independently licensed therapist, they have the expertise to help you navigate your challenges.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, LGBTQIA+ issues, anger, grief, loss, loneliness, addictions, trauma, discrimination, or a lack of motivation? You're not alone. I'm here to introduce you to an incredibly compassionate and experienced therapist who is ready to support you on your journey towards healing and growth. With immediate openings for new patients, this therapist is committed to providing a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. As an independently licensed therapist, they have the expertise to help you navigate your challenges.
(520) 412-2381 View (520) 412-2381
Photo of Judith J Cloutier-Chenier, Licensed Associate Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Judith J Cloutier-Chenier
Licensed Associate Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85028  (Online Only)
My name is Judith, and I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced traumatic events or struggle with anxiety. As a therapist, I am committed to create a judgement free environment, empower my clients, and help them build resilience in the face of adversity. I believe that healing is a collaborative process, and I work closely with my clients to tailor treatment to their unique needs and goals. Whether you are struggling with the aftermath of a traumatic experience or feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, I am here to support you on your journey toward greater health and well-being.
My name is Judith, and I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced traumatic events or struggle with anxiety. As a therapist, I am committed to create a judgement free environment, empower my clients, and help them build resilience in the face of adversity. I believe that healing is a collaborative process, and I work closely with my clients to tailor treatment to their unique needs and goals. Whether you are struggling with the aftermath of a traumatic experience or feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, I am here to support you on your journey toward greater health and well-being.
(224) 243-6371 View (224) 243-6371
Photo of Lisa Ruelas, Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Lisa Ruelas
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85027
Sit back, relax and let's get comfy! My counseling style is like a cozy couch, non-judgy, super empathetic, with lots of smiles and laughs. I strive to create a safe space where you feel heard and understood. I am committed to taking part of the journey with each client, I am here to listen with an open heart and mind. Being a mother of 4, gives me a unique perspective on life’s challenges. I believe even through the toughest times anyone is capable of unlocking new levels of fulfillment, purpose and true happiness. You have what it takes to conquer life's hurdles! Together we'll navigate this journey towards a brighter future.
Sit back, relax and let's get comfy! My counseling style is like a cozy couch, non-judgy, super empathetic, with lots of smiles and laughs. I strive to create a safe space where you feel heard and understood. I am committed to taking part of the journey with each client, I am here to listen with an open heart and mind. Being a mother of 4, gives me a unique perspective on life’s challenges. I believe even through the toughest times anyone is capable of unlocking new levels of fulfillment, purpose and true happiness. You have what it takes to conquer life's hurdles! Together we'll navigate this journey towards a brighter future.
(623) 303-4803 View (623) 303-4803
Photo of Dr. Anniken Pettersen, Psychologist in Phoenix, AZ
Dr. Anniken Pettersen
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016
I provide a safe and supportive environment to help client's deal with general mental health problems, difficult life circumstances, and self-improvement. In-person and phone sessions are available. Specialty areas are treating anxiety, trauma, depression, mood disorders, and LGBTIQA+ related issues. Furthermore, I am board certified in Bariatric Counseling and can help develop strategies for weight management. Another interest area of mine is dealing with the psychological challenges of living with autoimmune disease. I do not offer couples or family counseling services. Nor do I offer psychological testing services at this time.
I provide a safe and supportive environment to help client's deal with general mental health problems, difficult life circumstances, and self-improvement. In-person and phone sessions are available. Specialty areas are treating anxiety, trauma, depression, mood disorders, and LGBTIQA+ related issues. Furthermore, I am board certified in Bariatric Counseling and can help develop strategies for weight management. Another interest area of mine is dealing with the psychological challenges of living with autoimmune disease. I do not offer couples or family counseling services. Nor do I offer psychological testing services at this time.
(602) 903-4942 View (602) 903-4942
Photo of Pure Human Connection Counseling, Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Pure Human Connection Counseling
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85029
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS... Everyone deserves the opportunity to feel heard, understood and supported in order to make the changes they want in their lives. Everyone deserves to be living the life they want. I provide my clients with a variety of therapeutic techniques and tools necessary to get to the life they envision and want. My goal as a therapist is to help all clients see that they are strong, resilient, and can achieve their goals in order to start living the life they want and deserve. I look forward to working with you during your journey.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS... Everyone deserves the opportunity to feel heard, understood and supported in order to make the changes they want in their lives. Everyone deserves to be living the life they want. I provide my clients with a variety of therapeutic techniques and tools necessary to get to the life they envision and want. My goal as a therapist is to help all clients see that they are strong, resilient, and can achieve their goals in order to start living the life they want and deserve. I look forward to working with you during your journey.
(602) 600-6735 View (602) 600-6735
Photo of Confianza Health, Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Confianza Health
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85029
Confianza Health is leading in making lasting changes for our members and families. The Trauma Informed Care approach that we use addresses the core concerns while using a strength based and solution focused approach that is compassionate and effective without judgments.
Confianza Health is leading in making lasting changes for our members and families. The Trauma Informed Care approach that we use addresses the core concerns while using a strength based and solution focused approach that is compassionate and effective without judgments.
(623) 250-5239 View (623) 250-5239
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.