Photo of Christopher Joel Tromba, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Christopher Joel Tromba
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90028
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults struggling with Bipolar, Depression, Relationship difficulties, and adjusting to the changes life brings.
You deserve a safe environment where you feel free to express yourself and seek to understand what makes you, you. I am excited about the power of the therapeutic process, and believe that working together we may achieve the change you seek.
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults struggling with Bipolar, Depression, Relationship difficulties, and adjusting to the changes life brings.
You deserve a safe environment where you feel free to express yourself and seek to understand what makes you, you. I am excited about the power of the therapeutic process, and believe that working together we may achieve the change you seek.
(805) 870-8901 View (805) 870-8901
Photo of Adella Jaeger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Adella Jaeger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90064
 My areas of expertise include depression and anxiety, bipolar, child development, parenting, teens and maternal health.
Are you feeling "stuck," overwhelmed, or find yourself worrying about things beyond your control? You are looking for the right therapist, someone who will not only "get you," but will actually help you. I am not a stereotypical "so how does that make you feel" therapist. Yes, I am very empathetic, down to earth, caring, and intuitive.. And I am also practical. As a therapist with over a decade of experience, I am actively involved, goal oriented, and realistic. I am skilled at providing both traditional and cutting-edge therapies, using invaluable tools that can open the doors for the insight and clarity that you are searching for.
 My areas of expertise include depression and anxiety, bipolar, child development, parenting, teens and maternal health.
Are you feeling "stuck," overwhelmed, or find yourself worrying about things beyond your control? You are looking for the right therapist, someone who will not only "get you," but will actually help you. I am not a stereotypical "so how does that make you feel" therapist. Yes, I am very empathetic, down to earth, caring, and intuitive.. And I am also practical. As a therapist with over a decade of experience, I am actively involved, goal oriented, and realistic. I am skilled at providing both traditional and cutting-edge therapies, using invaluable tools that can open the doors for the insight and clarity that you are searching for.
(702) 710-0826 View (702) 710-0826
Photo of Bram Conley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Bram Conley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
My experience with treating major psychiatric disorders and substance abuse allows me to help clients with bipolar disorder, major depression, schizophrenia, and anxiety disorders such as OCD, panic disorder and generalized anxiety. In addition to providing treatment for these types of problems, I have experience working with the families of adults and adolescents who are experiencing serious psychiatric problems.
My experience with treating major psychiatric disorders and substance abuse allows me to help clients with bipolar disorder, major depression, schizophrenia, and anxiety disorders such as OCD, panic disorder and generalized anxiety. In addition to providing treatment for these types of problems, I have experience working with the families of adults and adolescents who are experiencing serious psychiatric problems.
(424) 343-1715 View (424) 343-1715
Photo of Dr. Alan E Clark, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Dr. Alan E Clark
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90064  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 35 years of private practice experience. I trained within APA-accredited doctoral programs and internship programs. I am licensed to practice psychology in both California and Colorado. I specialize in treating couples and individual adults presenting with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, substance abuse, and relational conflict and dissatisfaction. I am trained in psycho-dynamic psychotherapy, but I also apply cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness, and interpersonal psychotherapy techniques to address the best methods for each individual and his or her issues and needs.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 35 years of private practice experience. I trained within APA-accredited doctoral programs and internship programs. I am licensed to practice psychology in both California and Colorado. I specialize in treating couples and individual adults presenting with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, substance abuse, and relational conflict and dissatisfaction. I am trained in psycho-dynamic psychotherapy, but I also apply cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness, and interpersonal psychotherapy techniques to address the best methods for each individual and his or her issues and needs.
(310) 660-7462 View (310) 660-7462
Photo of Dora Nayely Valencia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Dora Nayely Valencia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90066  (Online Only)
I have experience working with clients with depression, anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, men's issues, family/relationship conflict/violence, reduced self-esteem, cultural difficulties and LGBTQIA+ issues.
Currently Accepting New Clients: Welcome. It takes great courage to take the first step in seeking support for past or current experiences. As a therapist, I use a collaborative approach to explore areas of stress and concern to establish goals towards personal growth and change. In doing so, my goal is to provide a safe environment that is free of judgement when embarking on your journey of healing and self-improvement.
I have experience working with clients with depression, anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, men's issues, family/relationship conflict/violence, reduced self-esteem, cultural difficulties and LGBTQIA+ issues.
Currently Accepting New Clients: Welcome. It takes great courage to take the first step in seeking support for past or current experiences. As a therapist, I use a collaborative approach to explore areas of stress and concern to establish goals towards personal growth and change. In doing so, my goal is to provide a safe environment that is free of judgement when embarking on your journey of healing and self-improvement.
(442) 253-1168 View (442) 253-1168
Photo of Christine Dougherty, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Christine Dougherty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90059
I work with clients who are diagnosed with depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorders.
My name is Christine Dougherty and I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over a decade. My focus areas include; working with adolescents, adults, and families. My theoretical approach often depends on the specific needs of the individual. Some common approaches I use include cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and family systems therapy. I encourage clients to start from where they are and break down large goals into smaller more attainable parts.
I work with clients who are diagnosed with depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorders.
My name is Christine Dougherty and I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over a decade. My focus areas include; working with adolescents, adults, and families. My theoretical approach often depends on the specific needs of the individual. Some common approaches I use include cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and family systems therapy. I encourage clients to start from where they are and break down large goals into smaller more attainable parts.
(213) 786-3341 View (213) 786-3341
Photo of Michelle Matthews, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Michelle Matthews
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MPA
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
I specialize working with adults suffering from Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar I/II, Psychotic Disorders and Personality Disorders.
NOW OFFERING TELETHERAPY TUESDAY-FRIDAY 6 PM- 8 PM! We are living in a unique political climate. Going through life transitions, and having trouble adjusting? How about ongoing fatigue and stress caring for family? Experiencing increasing worry, anxiety or depression? We all struggle sometimes. It can feel debilitating trying to keep everything to yourself and master every problem. Utilize self care and give me a call. Therapy is a safe space to process deep emotional material. So many of us spend so much time caring for everyone else. But, forget to save a little energy for ourselves, to address our own needs. It's time.
I specialize working with adults suffering from Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar I/II, Psychotic Disorders and Personality Disorders.
NOW OFFERING TELETHERAPY TUESDAY-FRIDAY 6 PM- 8 PM! We are living in a unique political climate. Going through life transitions, and having trouble adjusting? How about ongoing fatigue and stress caring for family? Experiencing increasing worry, anxiety or depression? We all struggle sometimes. It can feel debilitating trying to keep everything to yourself and master every problem. Utilize self care and give me a call. Therapy is a safe space to process deep emotional material. So many of us spend so much time caring for everyone else. But, forget to save a little energy for ourselves, to address our own needs. It's time.
(213) 261-8785 View (213) 261-8785
Photo of Nicole Pope, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Los Angeles, CA
Nicole Pope
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90010  (Online Only)
Congratulations on taking the courageous step of seeking treatment for your mental health! I understand that searching for a therapist can sometimes add to the stress of seeking mental health care! I am an associate clinical social worker with nearly 10 years of experience in the mental health field. Initially, my focus was exclusively on adolescents aged 13-17 grappling with challenges such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, eating disorders, PTSD, trauma, substance abuse, and psychosis. As I progressed practicing, I transitioned to working with adults as well as teens.
Congratulations on taking the courageous step of seeking treatment for your mental health! I understand that searching for a therapist can sometimes add to the stress of seeking mental health care! I am an associate clinical social worker with nearly 10 years of experience in the mental health field. Initially, my focus was exclusively on adolescents aged 13-17 grappling with challenges such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, eating disorders, PTSD, trauma, substance abuse, and psychosis. As I progressed practicing, I transitioned to working with adults as well as teens.
(310) 564-7369 View (310) 564-7369
Photo of Sharon S Dunas, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Sharon S Dunas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90024
When mental illness strikes a family, it is as if 'someone threw a hand grenade into the family.' I can help you deal with your family member with a brain disorder. Let me help you learn to cope and advocate for your relative with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, depression with psychotic features, panic attacks, obsessive compulsive disorder and borderline personality disorder. You deserve a life even though your relative has a brain disorder. I am President of the National Alliance on Mental Illness for Westside Los Angeles. Check out what we can offer you: website www.namila.org
When mental illness strikes a family, it is as if 'someone threw a hand grenade into the family.' I can help you deal with your family member with a brain disorder. Let me help you learn to cope and advocate for your relative with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, depression with psychotic features, panic attacks, obsessive compulsive disorder and borderline personality disorder. You deserve a life even though your relative has a brain disorder. I am President of the National Alliance on Mental Illness for Westside Los Angeles. Check out what we can offer you: website www.namila.org
(310) 207-3505 View (310) 207-3505
Photo of Catherine Rossi, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Los Angeles, CA
Catherine Rossi
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90064  (Online Only)
Every human struggles, and every human deserves to feel seen, heard, and supported while finding their way to a healthy flow. Are you feeling disconnected? Your mental health may seem hard for others to understand, or even for you to understand. Maybe it feels overwhelming to question why you feel this way, or what's actually in your control to change. Maybe the things that get you through aren’t the healthiest for you, and you’re ready to try something different. I'm here to accompany and guide you, whether navigating life transitions, addiction, relationship issues, or managing depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, Bipolar, or ADHD.
Every human struggles, and every human deserves to feel seen, heard, and supported while finding their way to a healthy flow. Are you feeling disconnected? Your mental health may seem hard for others to understand, or even for you to understand. Maybe it feels overwhelming to question why you feel this way, or what's actually in your control to change. Maybe the things that get you through aren’t the healthiest for you, and you’re ready to try something different. I'm here to accompany and guide you, whether navigating life transitions, addiction, relationship issues, or managing depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, Bipolar, or ADHD.
(818) 962-2816 View (818) 962-2816
Photo of Jingbo Wang, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles, CA
Jingbo Wang
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90010  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), trauma, anger management, addiction, substance abuse, domestic violence (DV), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), bipolar disorder I and II (BP), eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders (OCD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and families and couples.
Many are on a journey to find themselves, and this journey can be difficult and arduous. Especially when growing up in homes without feelings of safety and security. Many children have never received the message that they are true miracles. I am here to help you restore your inner peace, face your challenges, accept who you truly are, and to help heal internal wounds. If you are on this journey, you are not alone. You do not have to forget about your past, but together, I would like to help you heal from your past and move forward.
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), trauma, anger management, addiction, substance abuse, domestic violence (DV), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), bipolar disorder I and II (BP), eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders (OCD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and families and couples.
Many are on a journey to find themselves, and this journey can be difficult and arduous. Especially when growing up in homes without feelings of safety and security. Many children have never received the message that they are true miracles. I am here to help you restore your inner peace, face your challenges, accept who you truly are, and to help heal internal wounds. If you are on this journey, you are not alone. You do not have to forget about your past, but together, I would like to help you heal from your past and move forward.
(310) 294-8701 View (310) 294-8701
Photo of Rachel Abroms, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Rachel Abroms
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CADC-I
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
I enjoy helping people who work in the entertainment business; sexual/emotional/physical trauma; interpersonal conflict; anxiety; depression; bipolar disorder; addiction; self-harm.
People are complex and life can be very challenging. The way we process and live our lives, especially the way in which we respond to life's difficult challenges, is often informed by painful experiences from our past, and unresolved issues. I will help you find the inner resources you need to recover, understand yourself better, and create the changes that will improve your well being. We all have the potential to heal, grow, and be successful in our lives. It is this potential that provides hope for all of us to overcome pain and adversity.
I enjoy helping people who work in the entertainment business; sexual/emotional/physical trauma; interpersonal conflict; anxiety; depression; bipolar disorder; addiction; self-harm.
People are complex and life can be very challenging. The way we process and live our lives, especially the way in which we respond to life's difficult challenges, is often informed by painful experiences from our past, and unresolved issues. I will help you find the inner resources you need to recover, understand yourself better, and create the changes that will improve your well being. We all have the potential to heal, grow, and be successful in our lives. It is this potential that provides hope for all of us to overcome pain and adversity.
(323) 203-0901 View (323) 203-0901
Photo of Jessica 'gonji' Lee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Jessica 'gonji' Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90066  (Online Only)
I work with people to claim internal power, and to take charge of your own story, regardless of your age. I have a special passion working with children, teens and their families as they navigate the unpredictable terrain of school, relationships, and identity development. I have worked extensively with youth, adults, and QTIBIPOC folks on life transitions, anxiety, panic, depression, trauma, bipolar, neurodivergence (ADHD and autism), psychosis, mood swings, and relationship issues. My style of therapy is not passive, we will set concrete goals and I'll help you build the skills to achieve them.
I work with people to claim internal power, and to take charge of your own story, regardless of your age. I have a special passion working with children, teens and their families as they navigate the unpredictable terrain of school, relationships, and identity development. I have worked extensively with youth, adults, and QTIBIPOC folks on life transitions, anxiety, panic, depression, trauma, bipolar, neurodivergence (ADHD and autism), psychosis, mood swings, and relationship issues. My style of therapy is not passive, we will set concrete goals and I'll help you build the skills to achieve them.
(213) 325-1393 View (213) 325-1393
Photo of Rick (Richard B.) Deaton, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Rick (Richard B.) Deaton
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90036
I treat both couples and individuals (18+) and tailor psychotherapy to meet the goals and needs of the patient. The therapeutic relationship is especially important and my goal is to provide a collaborative and interactive psychotherapy experience. I have almost 20 years experience treating people who experience depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder and symptoms of alcohol and drug abuse. I also have the experience and privilege of serving a culturally and ethnically diverse population, including the gay and lesbian community. My office is located on Beverly Boulevard across the street from El Coyote Restaurant.
I treat both couples and individuals (18+) and tailor psychotherapy to meet the goals and needs of the patient. The therapeutic relationship is especially important and my goal is to provide a collaborative and interactive psychotherapy experience. I have almost 20 years experience treating people who experience depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder and symptoms of alcohol and drug abuse. I also have the experience and privilege of serving a culturally and ethnically diverse population, including the gay and lesbian community. My office is located on Beverly Boulevard across the street from El Coyote Restaurant.
(213) 400-2434 View (213) 400-2434
Photo of Melissa Briggs, Pre-Licensed Professional in Los Angeles, CA
Melissa Briggs
Pre-Licensed Professional, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90010
Hi im Melissa! I have worked with adolescents and individuals with special needs in partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient programs, in the areas of trauma, anxiety, depression, and eating disorders, most of which included dual diagnoses. I have also worked in residential care and treatment for those 18+ who sought relief and recovery from mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, trauma, complicated grief, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, psychosis, and co-occurring disorders of substance misuse, disordered eating, gaming, and social media addictions.
Hi im Melissa! I have worked with adolescents and individuals with special needs in partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient programs, in the areas of trauma, anxiety, depression, and eating disorders, most of which included dual diagnoses. I have also worked in residential care and treatment for those 18+ who sought relief and recovery from mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, trauma, complicated grief, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, psychosis, and co-occurring disorders of substance misuse, disordered eating, gaming, and social media addictions.
(310) 742-9338 View (310) 742-9338
Photo of Hayley Howard, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Hayley Howard
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90006
Hi! My name is Hayley Howard, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. I work primarily with adults with anxiety, and depression, and throughout various life transitions via modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Integrated/Holistic Health. In my experience thus far as a therapist, I have found a deep connection to adult clients that are motivated to address various mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and life transitions.
Hi! My name is Hayley Howard, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California. I work primarily with adults with anxiety, and depression, and throughout various life transitions via modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Integrated/Holistic Health. In my experience thus far as a therapist, I have found a deep connection to adult clients that are motivated to address various mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and life transitions.
(213) 320-6904 View (213) 320-6904
Photo of Linda Fujino, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Linda Fujino
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
Whether you are looking to end an addiction, process complex trauma and shame, or overcome your self-limiting beliefs I am here to help. My extensive experience in the field, as well as my own personal work has led me to the understanding that there is a way out. I treat those with depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, grief/loss, children of addict/alcoholics, borderline personality, betrayal trauma, sex/porn addiction, and other issues. Through the therapeutic process I can help you to better understand what you have been through and how to overcome your current struggles to live your fullest, best life.
Whether you are looking to end an addiction, process complex trauma and shame, or overcome your self-limiting beliefs I am here to help. My extensive experience in the field, as well as my own personal work has led me to the understanding that there is a way out. I treat those with depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, ADHD, grief/loss, children of addict/alcoholics, borderline personality, betrayal trauma, sex/porn addiction, and other issues. Through the therapeutic process I can help you to better understand what you have been through and how to overcome your current struggles to live your fullest, best life.
(310) 928-2382 View (310) 928-2382
Photo of Shenae Brown, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Shenae Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90063
I have experience treating issues related to depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use disorders, bipolar, personality disorders, interpersonal violence, grief and loss, culture, cultural and systemic oppression, family or origin, and life purpose.
I am client-centered, compassionate, empathetic, hopeful and believe we all need help and support during life. I believe it's important to have a working and collaborative professional therapeutic relationship.
I have experience treating issues related to depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use disorders, bipolar, personality disorders, interpersonal violence, grief and loss, culture, cultural and systemic oppression, family or origin, and life purpose.
I am client-centered, compassionate, empathetic, hopeful and believe we all need help and support during life. I believe it's important to have a working and collaborative professional therapeutic relationship.
(323) 794-0939 View (323) 794-0939
Photo of Diane Ross, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Diane Ross
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90044
Since I work in a public setting my clients have varied from people experiencing Depression, Anxiety Disorder, PTSD, and Bipolar Disorder.
Hi there, my name is Diane. I am an LMFT who is committed to helping people through difficult life challenges, and skilled at helping people navigate and manage symptoms of depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorder, and PTSD. I also have a background working with women who have experienced sexual abuse as children.
Since I work in a public setting my clients have varied from people experiencing Depression, Anxiety Disorder, PTSD, and Bipolar Disorder.
Hi there, my name is Diane. I am an LMFT who is committed to helping people through difficult life challenges, and skilled at helping people navigate and manage symptoms of depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorder, and PTSD. I also have a background working with women who have experienced sexual abuse as children.
(213) 523-7673 View (213) 523-7673
Photo of Christie Chu, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Christie Chu
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90019
Hello, my name is Christie Chu. I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist in California and a licensed professional counselor in Texas. I'm a mother of 11-year-old twins, and have a great deal of life experience dealing with many of the issues my patients face. I work with clients with mood disorders, including anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. I work with couples dealing with infertility, relational violence, Child Abuse, and LGBTQ issues. In addition, I I work with school issues and I am a credentialed school counselor.
Hello, my name is Christie Chu. I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist in California and a licensed professional counselor in Texas. I'm a mother of 11-year-old twins, and have a great deal of life experience dealing with many of the issues my patients face. I work with clients with mood disorders, including anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. I work with couples dealing with infertility, relational violence, Child Abuse, and LGBTQ issues. In addition, I I work with school issues and I am a credentialed school counselor.
(323) 616-2574 View (323) 616-2574

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.