Photo of Caring Connected, Marriage & Family Therapist in Stevenson Ranch, CA
Caring Connected
Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT, APCC, LMFT, LPCC, LCSW
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Stevenson Ranch, CA 91381
Are you feeling disconnected, stressed, stuck, scared, or angry? Are you repeating relationships, patterns, or situations and wishing you could break the cycle? Maybe life feels more frustrating or stressful than usual. Sometimes we aren't sure what causes our distress, but we know we're not reaching our potential for health, happiness, or success. And even if we know what the issue is, change can feel impossible. That's where our team of qualified professionals can help. Our job isn't to judge you or your choices, it's to help you understand the root causes of your issues and work together to create a custom plan for change.
Are you feeling disconnected, stressed, stuck, scared, or angry? Are you repeating relationships, patterns, or situations and wishing you could break the cycle? Maybe life feels more frustrating or stressful than usual. Sometimes we aren't sure what causes our distress, but we know we're not reaching our potential for health, happiness, or success. And even if we know what the issue is, change can feel impossible. That's where our team of qualified professionals can help. Our job isn't to judge you or your choices, it's to help you understand the root causes of your issues and work together to create a custom plan for change.
(707) 317-6092 View (707) 317-6092

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Center For Integrated Care, Marriage & Family Therapist in Stevenson Ranch, CA
Center For Integrated Care
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Clarita, CA 91355  (Online Only)
Center for Integrated Care focuses on one's psychological, social-emotional, and mental well being. Our services are centered around client's needs, where change occurs naturally, genuinely. We provide individual, couples, family, and group therapy. We welcome all those who are needing a lift from their problems and strenuous life situations. We are a team of Licensed Clinicians and Associate MFT And ASW with specialty in working with children and adults. If you just need short term therapy to get over a pressing issue or long term therapy to process and maintain mental health well being we are here for you.
Center for Integrated Care focuses on one's psychological, social-emotional, and mental well being. Our services are centered around client's needs, where change occurs naturally, genuinely. We provide individual, couples, family, and group therapy. We welcome all those who are needing a lift from their problems and strenuous life situations. We are a team of Licensed Clinicians and Associate MFT And ASW with specialty in working with children and adults. If you just need short term therapy to get over a pressing issue or long term therapy to process and maintain mental health well being we are here for you.
(818) 696-5655 View (818) 696-5655
Photo of Christine Chae, Marriage & Family Therapist in Stevenson Ranch, CA
Christine Chae
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Clarita, CA 91355
Are you feeling helpless in dealing with your child/teen emotional and behavioral issues? Do you feel lost in connecting with your child/teen? You want to help them but don't know how? I have been working with children, adults, and families for over 15 years to bring out their potential in mindfulness, creativity and relationships through individual and family therapy. Through this process, clients get to know themselves better, in a safe and supportive environment. I develop a therapeutic relationship based on their needs and goals. My experience includes treating individuals with depression, anxiety, anger, and trauma.
Are you feeling helpless in dealing with your child/teen emotional and behavioral issues? Do you feel lost in connecting with your child/teen? You want to help them but don't know how? I have been working with children, adults, and families for over 15 years to bring out their potential in mindfulness, creativity and relationships through individual and family therapy. Through this process, clients get to know themselves better, in a safe and supportive environment. I develop a therapeutic relationship based on their needs and goals. My experience includes treating individuals with depression, anxiety, anger, and trauma.
(818) 350-5345 View (818) 350-5345
Photo of Megan Murphy Cross, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Stevenson Ranch, CA
Megan Murphy Cross
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Valencia, CA 91355
Can't focus? Are you overstimulated or struggling with negative thoughts, painful memories, imposter syndrome, self-esteem, or decreased motivation? Do you fall into patterns in relationships, friendships, or work and wish you could break the cycle? Sometimes, it isn't obvious why we do the things we do, but we can sense we're not our most authentic or successful self. Even when we know the cause of our distress, changing our behavior can still be hard. That's where I come in. My job is to listen without judgment, pressure, or bias and help you examine the root causes of your challenges to create the change you want in your life.
Can't focus? Are you overstimulated or struggling with negative thoughts, painful memories, imposter syndrome, self-esteem, or decreased motivation? Do you fall into patterns in relationships, friendships, or work and wish you could break the cycle? Sometimes, it isn't obvious why we do the things we do, but we can sense we're not our most authentic or successful self. Even when we know the cause of our distress, changing our behavior can still be hard. That's where I come in. My job is to listen without judgment, pressure, or bias and help you examine the root causes of your challenges to create the change you want in your life.
(747) 322-4338 View (747) 322-4338
Photo of Isla Dennis, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Stevenson Ranch, CA
Isla Dennis
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Santa Clarita, CA 91355  (Online Only)
Are you stuck in the same old arguments? Struggling with communication, boundaries, thoughts of leaving, or infidelity? Or maybe intimacy feels awkward or stale? Are you or your loved ones repeating behaviors or relationships and wishing you could break the cycle? Sometimes we get stuck, and change can feel impossible. That's where I come in. My job is to listen, help you understand root causes of your difficulties, break unwanted patterns, and teach you practical tools to help change your life. If you have the sense you're not reaching your potential for health, happiness, or success, it may be time to move toward a change.
Are you stuck in the same old arguments? Struggling with communication, boundaries, thoughts of leaving, or infidelity? Or maybe intimacy feels awkward or stale? Are you or your loved ones repeating behaviors or relationships and wishing you could break the cycle? Sometimes we get stuck, and change can feel impossible. That's where I come in. My job is to listen, help you understand root causes of your difficulties, break unwanted patterns, and teach you practical tools to help change your life. If you have the sense you're not reaching your potential for health, happiness, or success, it may be time to move toward a change.
(626) 507-2747 View (626) 507-2747
Photo of SCV Counseling Center, Marriage & Family Therapist in Stevenson Ranch, CA
SCV Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Clarita, CA 91321
Childcare is provided during your session. Bring the kids to spend time at our Kid's Room, while you get treatment from our therapists. All of our therapists hold a minimum of a master's degree in a psychology-related field that qualifies them with the Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS) to provide counseling/therapy in California. Sessions are available in-person as well as online via telehealth. We are accepting new clients now and can get you an appointment within 2-3 days. Open every day apart from Sundays, from 10:30 AM to late evening.
Childcare is provided during your session. Bring the kids to spend time at our Kid's Room, while you get treatment from our therapists. All of our therapists hold a minimum of a master's degree in a psychology-related field that qualifies them with the Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS) to provide counseling/therapy in California. Sessions are available in-person as well as online via telehealth. We are accepting new clients now and can get you an appointment within 2-3 days. Open every day apart from Sundays, from 10:30 AM to late evening.
(661) 485-3456 View (661) 485-3456
Photo of Stefanie Lucia, Marriage & Family Therapist in Stevenson Ranch, CA
Stefanie Lucia
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Valencia, CA 91355
Are you struggling with identity? Feeling worthless or like an imposter? Are you snapping at loved ones over little things? Or repeating relationships, patterns, or situations, and wishing you could break the cycle? Sometimes, we aren't sure what causes our distress, but we can sense we're not reaching our potential for health, happiness, or success. That's where I come in. My job is to listen, help you understand the root causes of your issues, break unwanted patterns, and teach you practical tools to change your life. Therapy isn't always easy, but neither is the distress you're feeling now. And it's ok to need help; we all do.
Are you struggling with identity? Feeling worthless or like an imposter? Are you snapping at loved ones over little things? Or repeating relationships, patterns, or situations, and wishing you could break the cycle? Sometimes, we aren't sure what causes our distress, but we can sense we're not reaching our potential for health, happiness, or success. That's where I come in. My job is to listen, help you understand the root causes of your issues, break unwanted patterns, and teach you practical tools to change your life. Therapy isn't always easy, but neither is the distress you're feeling now. And it's ok to need help; we all do.
(707) 708-4461 View (707) 708-4461
Photo of The Mindful Lemon, Marriage & Family Therapist in Stevenson Ranch, CA
The Mindful Lemon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Clarita, CA 91350  (Online Only)
Our mission is to provide quality online mental health and substance abuse services while breaking down the barriers of traditional, office-based therapy. Traditional mental health and substance abuse treatment tends to focus on what makes you sick, and what you are lacking but at The Mindful Lemon, our clinicians let you sit in the driver’s seat, focusing on your strengths and assets to help you become the best version of you! This can be via traditional talk therapy, medication management, mindfulness techniques, an emphasis on health, wellness, and fitness, or any combination of the above. T
Our mission is to provide quality online mental health and substance abuse services while breaking down the barriers of traditional, office-based therapy. Traditional mental health and substance abuse treatment tends to focus on what makes you sick, and what you are lacking but at The Mindful Lemon, our clinicians let you sit in the driver’s seat, focusing on your strengths and assets to help you become the best version of you! This can be via traditional talk therapy, medication management, mindfulness techniques, an emphasis on health, wellness, and fitness, or any combination of the above. T
(661) 215-8670 View (661) 215-8670
Photo of Sara Cote, Marriage & Family Therapist in Stevenson Ranch, CA
Sara Cote
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newhall, CA 91321
Are unhealthy/toxic relationships causing you stress and anxiety? Are you feeling confused, stuck and unheard? Do you feel your communication skills need improvement? I value each and every one of my clients by with guiding you in achieving more peace and harmony in life. If you are experiencing distress and conflict it's time to make the call. I will offer you a supportive, compassionate environment along with tools and a direct approach to help you overcome your challenges. I use Positive Solution Focused, Cognitive Behavioral approaches in helping you attain healthy relationships, while also getting your own needs met .
Are unhealthy/toxic relationships causing you stress and anxiety? Are you feeling confused, stuck and unheard? Do you feel your communication skills need improvement? I value each and every one of my clients by with guiding you in achieving more peace and harmony in life. If you are experiencing distress and conflict it's time to make the call. I will offer you a supportive, compassionate environment along with tools and a direct approach to help you overcome your challenges. I use Positive Solution Focused, Cognitive Behavioral approaches in helping you attain healthy relationships, while also getting your own needs met .
(661) 474-4092 View (661) 474-4092
Barbara Ferrari
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Clarita, CA 91321
Barbara Ferrari, LMFT is a Los Angeles-based licensed marriage and family therapist with over thirty years of experience treating mental health issues and working with the dual diagnosed population. My professional services, which operate in a philosophy of hope, optimism, and belief in the benefits of patient and professional counseling, center on creating personalized strategies that encourage growth and healing in the individual, family unit, and community as a whole.
Barbara Ferrari, LMFT is a Los Angeles-based licensed marriage and family therapist with over thirty years of experience treating mental health issues and working with the dual diagnosed population. My professional services, which operate in a philosophy of hope, optimism, and belief in the benefits of patient and professional counseling, center on creating personalized strategies that encourage growth and healing in the individual, family unit, and community as a whole.
(661) 373-6923 View (661) 373-6923

Online Therapists

Photo of Dr. Terri Thomas, Counselor in Stevenson Ranch, CA
Dr. Terri Thomas
Counselor, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Hesperia, CA 92345
I provide care to individuals, couples, and families who have found themselves in need of making adjustments in their lives or wanting to learn more about a mental health diagnosis such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, trauma, obsessive behaviors, substance/alcohol issues, schizophrenia, personality issues, marital problems, or parent/child issues.
Life throws many challenges our way and we choose which action to take in responding to those challenges. I've worked with people from various social, political, and ethnic backgrounds and the one thing that everyone has in common is that we all face challenges in life. There are numerous reasons that people seek mental health professionals, and those reasons are very personal and unique to each person. Finding the right professional to guide you in learning more about your mental health diagnosis, getting you through an immediate crisis, or feelings of uncertainty are important in getting you through tough times.
I provide care to individuals, couples, and families who have found themselves in need of making adjustments in their lives or wanting to learn more about a mental health diagnosis such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, trauma, obsessive behaviors, substance/alcohol issues, schizophrenia, personality issues, marital problems, or parent/child issues.
Life throws many challenges our way and we choose which action to take in responding to those challenges. I've worked with people from various social, political, and ethnic backgrounds and the one thing that everyone has in common is that we all face challenges in life. There are numerous reasons that people seek mental health professionals, and those reasons are very personal and unique to each person. Finding the right professional to guide you in learning more about your mental health diagnosis, getting you through an immediate crisis, or feelings of uncertainty are important in getting you through tough times.
(760) 853-5086 View (760) 853-5086
Photo of Kris Winslow, Marriage & Family Therapist in Stevenson Ranch, CA
Kris Winslow
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MBA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Inglewood, CA 90302  (Online Only)
I see a lot of people who have been diagnosed with anxiety, depression, PTSD and bipolar disorder.
There is really no issue to big or too small to bring to therapy. I have seen people go through so much positive change because of their work in therapy and think it is such an awesome process. Just because we can go through life in survival mode and bouncing off our ups and downs, does not mean we should. I love to talk about everything therapy, so I encourage people to reach out.
I see a lot of people who have been diagnosed with anxiety, depression, PTSD and bipolar disorder.
There is really no issue to big or too small to bring to therapy. I have seen people go through so much positive change because of their work in therapy and think it is such an awesome process. Just because we can go through life in survival mode and bouncing off our ups and downs, does not mean we should. I love to talk about everything therapy, so I encourage people to reach out.
(323) 973-2279 View (323) 973-2279
Photo of Janice Ciccarelli, Psychologist in Stevenson Ranch, CA
Janice Ciccarelli
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Claremont, CA 91711  (Online Only)
I work with individuals who are dealing with various life issues that may include anxiety, depression, stress, relationship problems, self harm, trauma, insomnia, women's issues, men's issues, physical illness, academic problems, attention deficits and parenting skills. I also treat individuals who have serious mental illness such as psychotic and bipolar disorders. I work with individuals, couples and families.
I work with individuals who are dealing with various life issues that may include anxiety, depression, stress, relationship problems, self harm, trauma, insomnia, women's issues, men's issues, physical illness, academic problems, attention deficits and parenting skills. I also treat individuals who have serious mental illness such as psychotic and bipolar disorders. I work with individuals, couples and families.
(909) 295-7811 View (909) 295-7811
Photo of Nicole Pascavis, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Stevenson Ranch, CA
Nicole Pascavis
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Culver City, CA 90230
I support clients through self-discovery, major life transitions, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, family challenges, and more with insightful care.
I work with adults, children, couples, and families confronting a wide range of mental, emotional, spiritual, and relational challenges. These can range from major symptom and conflict management to a desire for greater meaning, balance, self-love, and mental clarity. Some goals we build toward together may include: self-understanding and a sense of wholeness; helping you become your own best ally in health and life; healthy relationships and support systems; improved self-esteem; identifying and communicating needs and feelings effectively; and greater creativity and empowerment in crafting your own life and story.
I support clients through self-discovery, major life transitions, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, family challenges, and more with insightful care.
I work with adults, children, couples, and families confronting a wide range of mental, emotional, spiritual, and relational challenges. These can range from major symptom and conflict management to a desire for greater meaning, balance, self-love, and mental clarity. Some goals we build toward together may include: self-understanding and a sense of wholeness; helping you become your own best ally in health and life; healthy relationships and support systems; improved self-esteem; identifying and communicating needs and feelings effectively; and greater creativity and empowerment in crafting your own life and story.
(323) 210-3760 View (323) 210-3760
Photo of Renee Michelle Ward, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Stevenson Ranch, CA
Renee Michelle Ward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92604  (Online Only)
Greetings! My name is Renee and I'm a licensed clinical social worker. We spend too much time feeling as though we're not good enough or can't achieve our dreams. How we think about ourselves and our environment directly determines how we feel. As a therapist I have had the opportunity to work with clients looking for guidance and relief in many areas such as: anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, addiction, ADHD symptoms, life transitions, body dysmorphia and gender dysphoria. Please contact me for a 15 min free consultation to see if we are a good fit. I will get back to you within 24 hours.
Greetings! My name is Renee and I'm a licensed clinical social worker. We spend too much time feeling as though we're not good enough or can't achieve our dreams. How we think about ourselves and our environment directly determines how we feel. As a therapist I have had the opportunity to work with clients looking for guidance and relief in many areas such as: anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, addiction, ADHD symptoms, life transitions, body dysmorphia and gender dysphoria. Please contact me for a 15 min free consultation to see if we are a good fit. I will get back to you within 24 hours.
(714) 586-8678 View (714) 586-8678
Photo of Linda Fujino, Marriage & Family Therapist in Stevenson Ranch, 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 Dr. Cassidy Blair, Psychologist in Stevenson Ranch, CA
Dr. Cassidy Blair
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92612
I specialize in treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar D/O, variety of Addictions, Trauma, Intimacy and Relationship Issues, Eating D/O, Life Coaching and Performance Coaching.
WE OFFER EVENING AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS. My goal is to help you improve the quality of your life and make positive changes by reducing your Anxiety, Depression, eliminating stress, Addiction, and gaining back control. You will achieve a much higher quality of life in a safe, exclusive and caring environment. I will support you to discover your inner strength, and develop effective coping skills. You will experience freedom from emotional pain and feel empowered to achieve your goals and dreams. I provide CONCEIRGE care to executives and professionals.
I specialize in treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar D/O, variety of Addictions, Trauma, Intimacy and Relationship Issues, Eating D/O, Life Coaching and Performance Coaching.
WE OFFER EVENING AND WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS. My goal is to help you improve the quality of your life and make positive changes by reducing your Anxiety, Depression, eliminating stress, Addiction, and gaining back control. You will achieve a much higher quality of life in a safe, exclusive and caring environment. I will support you to discover your inner strength, and develop effective coping skills. You will experience freedom from emotional pain and feel empowered to achieve your goals and dreams. I provide CONCEIRGE care to executives and professionals.
(424) 888-6124 View (424) 888-6124
Photo of Logical Behavioral Health, Psychologist in Stevenson Ranch, CA
Logical Behavioral Health
Psychologist, PsyD, PhD, ABPP, LMFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Logical Behavioral Health providers are professionals who understand and prioritize your care above all else. We believe that in certain cases, good care even means providing a referral to someone outside of our office if our providers are not the best fit for your behavioral health care needs. The overall course of treatment will ultimately utilize a collaborative approach in helping you achieve mutually formulated treatment goals to reduce symptoms and improve functioning. If you believe that you need a referral to a psychiatrist or other health care professional, we have the resources to provide you with an appropriate referral.
Logical Behavioral Health providers are professionals who understand and prioritize your care above all else. We believe that in certain cases, good care even means providing a referral to someone outside of our office if our providers are not the best fit for your behavioral health care needs. The overall course of treatment will ultimately utilize a collaborative approach in helping you achieve mutually formulated treatment goals to reduce symptoms and improve functioning. If you believe that you need a referral to a psychiatrist or other health care professional, we have the resources to provide you with an appropriate referral.
(949) 536-8892 View (949) 536-8892
Photo of Octave - Los Angeles Clinic, Psychologist in Stevenson Ranch, CA
Octave - Los Angeles Clinic
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90024  (Online Only)
Octave is a modern practice creating a new standard for mental health care that’s both high-quality and accessible. With in-person and virtual clinics in California, Connecticut, Florida, New Jersey, New York, Texas, and Washington D.C., we partner with you to develop personalized plans that can include individual, couples, and family therapy to best suit your needs. Grounded in science, our approach enables you to experience profound change that is just as measurable as it is meaningful. Learn more at www.findoctave.com
Octave is a modern practice creating a new standard for mental health care that’s both high-quality and accessible. With in-person and virtual clinics in California, Connecticut, Florida, New Jersey, New York, Texas, and Washington D.C., we partner with you to develop personalized plans that can include individual, couples, and family therapy to best suit your needs. Grounded in science, our approach enables you to experience profound change that is just as measurable as it is meaningful. Learn more at www.findoctave.com
(310) 905-6841 View (310) 905-6841
Photo of Fran's Family Counseling, Prof Inc., Marriage & Family Therapist in Stevenson Ranch, CA
Fran's Family Counseling, Prof Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, PPS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Victorville, CA 92392
Mental Health Matters. Telephone/Online Video. I may assist with providing the tools you need to manage life at home, school, work and have healthy relationships with those in your life. I only accept individuals as I help each person learn to communicate with your spouse and family members. I only accept Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP) insurance and TriCare West. For non members I have a current $175 cash pay special for a 60 minute counseling session. Ask about the $ 125 sliding scale fee for those that qualify. Cash app: $mhmatters2 Don't have cash app and need pay a different way? Contact me.
Mental Health Matters. Telephone/Online Video. I may assist with providing the tools you need to manage life at home, school, work and have healthy relationships with those in your life. I only accept individuals as I help each person learn to communicate with your spouse and family members. I only accept Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP) insurance and TriCare West. For non members I have a current $175 cash pay special for a 60 minute counseling session. Ask about the $ 125 sliding scale fee for those that qualify. Cash app: $mhmatters2 Don't have cash app and need pay a different way? Contact me.
(442) 244-9054 View (442) 244-9054

See more therapy options for Stevenson Ranch

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.