Photo of Laura Travisano, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in Denver, CO
Laura Travisano
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC, ADDC
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80203
I believe true connection and healing are possible, and that therapy holds the capacity for profound transformation. We'll work within a supportive and accepting environment navigating areas relating to belonging, past trauma, owning the strength of sensitivity and confidence in self expression. I specialize in supporting identities and interests such as high sensitivity, low self esteem and self worth, spirituality, codependency, childhood emotional neglect, addiction, adult children and siblings of substance users, life transitions, anxiety, depression, loneliness, and Bipolar disorder.
I believe true connection and healing are possible, and that therapy holds the capacity for profound transformation. We'll work within a supportive and accepting environment navigating areas relating to belonging, past trauma, owning the strength of sensitivity and confidence in self expression. I specialize in supporting identities and interests such as high sensitivity, low self esteem and self worth, spirituality, codependency, childhood emotional neglect, addiction, adult children and siblings of substance users, life transitions, anxiety, depression, loneliness, and Bipolar disorder.
(720) 794-5869 View (720) 794-5869
Photo of J Katie Graber, Marriage & Family Therapist in Denver, CO
J Katie Graber
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC, LMFT, LAC, NCC, MAC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80218
Life is a journey and no one escapes the trials and tribulations that come with living a full life. I believe in hope and I believe in everyone's ability to grow and change to become the best versions of themselves. In a collaborative effort, I can assist in your journey to ensure you have the opportunity to experience your own greatest happiness. I specialize in addictions, trauma, couple counseling, sex therapy, personality disorders, anxiety/depression, bipolar diagnosis, and grief/loss.
Life is a journey and no one escapes the trials and tribulations that come with living a full life. I believe in hope and I believe in everyone's ability to grow and change to become the best versions of themselves. In a collaborative effort, I can assist in your journey to ensure you have the opportunity to experience your own greatest happiness. I specialize in addictions, trauma, couple counseling, sex therapy, personality disorders, anxiety/depression, bipolar diagnosis, and grief/loss.
(720) 457-9032 View (720) 457-9032
Photo of Dana Cohen, Counselor in Denver, CO
Dana Cohen
Counselor, MA, LPCC, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80212
I'm a specialized therapist who works primarily with neurodivergence, specifically ADHD, OCD, autism & borderline spectrums, and chronic depression, anxiety, & bipolar disorders. I also have expertise in complex trauma issues, often stemming from narcissistic family systems or relationship abuse. Many of my clients possess an excellent or above-average capacity for self-reflection and introspection. However, they feel their heightened self-awareness can sometimes backfire, magnifying feelings of powerlessness and frustration when they find themselves stuck in repetitive patterns and unable to make desired changes in their behaviors.
I'm a specialized therapist who works primarily with neurodivergence, specifically ADHD, OCD, autism & borderline spectrums, and chronic depression, anxiety, & bipolar disorders. I also have expertise in complex trauma issues, often stemming from narcissistic family systems or relationship abuse. Many of my clients possess an excellent or above-average capacity for self-reflection and introspection. However, they feel their heightened self-awareness can sometimes backfire, magnifying feelings of powerlessness and frustration when they find themselves stuck in repetitive patterns and unable to make desired changes in their behaviors.
(720) 807-5153 View (720) 807-5153
Photo of Chris Woodward, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Chris Woodward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80216
Waitlist for new clients
My specialties include: stress management, anxiety disorders, panic attacks, social and general phobias, self-esteem issues, Depression and Bipolar, entitlement, parenting difficulties, anger management, personality disorders, grief and loss, trauma (EMDR), ADHD/ADD substance abuse problems, psychotic disorders, and adjustment difficulties.
I believe we are here to discover, learn, and experience as much as possible in this short journey. As a seasoned and experienced Counselor, I take a holistic (comprehensive) approach in psychotherapy focusing on all parts of a person which includes the emotional, social, biological, environmental, spiritual/philosophical (meaning and purpose), and psychological components that make us whole. And if you are in need of psychiatric medications, I work with a Psychiatrist in the area and you will have access to this service.
My specialties include: stress management, anxiety disorders, panic attacks, social and general phobias, self-esteem issues, Depression and Bipolar, entitlement, parenting difficulties, anger management, personality disorders, grief and loss, trauma (EMDR), ADHD/ADD substance abuse problems, psychotic disorders, and adjustment difficulties.
I believe we are here to discover, learn, and experience as much as possible in this short journey. As a seasoned and experienced Counselor, I take a holistic (comprehensive) approach in psychotherapy focusing on all parts of a person which includes the emotional, social, biological, environmental, spiritual/philosophical (meaning and purpose), and psychological components that make us whole. And if you are in need of psychiatric medications, I work with a Psychiatrist in the area and you will have access to this service.
(720) 897-0246 View (720) 897-0246
Photo of Littleton Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Littleton Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80220
Others specialties include Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), Family Counseling, High Risk Adolescents, Couples Counseling, Adjustment Issues, Affective Disorder, Parenting Issues, Phobias, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Bipolar and other Mood Disorders, Career Counseling as well as being able to understand and manage everyday stressors.
Littleton Counseling, LLC offers teletherapy services and provides state-of-the-art, quality psychotherapy from highly qualified Masters' Level counseling professionals who who strive to build strong theraputic relationships while working with adolescents, adults, and families. Mr. Malkin enjoys and had been extremely successful assisting individuals experiencing self harming behaviors as well as suicidal ideation and trauma. Both telecommunication and online services are also available the have been approved and comply with Dora as well as Hippa guidelines.
Others specialties include Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), Family Counseling, High Risk Adolescents, Couples Counseling, Adjustment Issues, Affective Disorder, Parenting Issues, Phobias, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Bipolar and other Mood Disorders, Career Counseling as well as being able to understand and manage everyday stressors.
Littleton Counseling, LLC offers teletherapy services and provides state-of-the-art, quality psychotherapy from highly qualified Masters' Level counseling professionals who who strive to build strong theraputic relationships while working with adolescents, adults, and families. Mr. Malkin enjoys and had been extremely successful assisting individuals experiencing self harming behaviors as well as suicidal ideation and trauma. Both telecommunication and online services are also available the have been approved and comply with Dora as well as Hippa guidelines.
(720) 915-4850 View (720) 915-4850
Photo of Emily Black, Counselor in Denver, CO
Emily Black
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211
I’ve worked with Rose House Addiction & Mental Health Treatment Center, the Faculty & Staff Assistance Program at CU Boulder, Naropa Community Counseling Center, Sutherland Bipolar Center, Mental Health Partners, the Women’s Center in Cambridge, MA, and the Safehouse Progressive Alliance on Nonviolence.
I am a psychotherapist and expressive arts therapist based in Boulder, CO. I use a trauma-informed approach that draws on the depth of relational psychoanalysis, the practicality of cognitive behavioral therapy, and the expressive magic of somatic and art-based approaches. I love working with anxiety and OCD-related disorders, embodiment and trauma healing, relationship issues, gifted populations, and people looking to nurture their creativity. I work with adults, couples, and teens. I’m especially passionate about the journey of individuation while holding each unique life story in a social justice context.
I’ve worked with Rose House Addiction & Mental Health Treatment Center, the Faculty & Staff Assistance Program at CU Boulder, Naropa Community Counseling Center, Sutherland Bipolar Center, Mental Health Partners, the Women’s Center in Cambridge, MA, and the Safehouse Progressive Alliance on Nonviolence.
I am a psychotherapist and expressive arts therapist based in Boulder, CO. I use a trauma-informed approach that draws on the depth of relational psychoanalysis, the practicality of cognitive behavioral therapy, and the expressive magic of somatic and art-based approaches. I love working with anxiety and OCD-related disorders, embodiment and trauma healing, relationship issues, gifted populations, and people looking to nurture their creativity. I work with adults, couples, and teens. I’m especially passionate about the journey of individuation while holding each unique life story in a social justice context.
(720) 794-9972 View (720) 794-9972
Photo of Becca Armstrong, Registered Psychotherapist in Denver, CO
Becca Armstrong
Registered Psychotherapist, CCHT
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80014  (Online Only)
Specialties: Anxiety, Depression, Panic, Fears, Phobias, ADD/ADHD, Mood Disorders, Procrastination, OCD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Stress-Related Issues, and Somatic Disorders.
Becca Armstrong, with over 26 years of experience in Transformation Coaching and Psychotherapy, has helped over 10,000 individuals worldwide to transform and thrive. Collaborating with esteemed leaders such as Marcia Weider and Bob Proctor, she served as Bob Proctor's Executive Director, where she developed and co-taught each of his international coach certification programs. Her pioneering work in Subconscious Systems continues to revolutionize the field of Transformational Coaching.
Specialties: Anxiety, Depression, Panic, Fears, Phobias, ADD/ADHD, Mood Disorders, Procrastination, OCD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Stress-Related Issues, and Somatic Disorders.
Becca Armstrong, with over 26 years of experience in Transformation Coaching and Psychotherapy, has helped over 10,000 individuals worldwide to transform and thrive. Collaborating with esteemed leaders such as Marcia Weider and Bob Proctor, she served as Bob Proctor's Executive Director, where she developed and co-taught each of his international coach certification programs. Her pioneering work in Subconscious Systems continues to revolutionize the field of Transformational Coaching.
(303) 647-4960 View (303) 647-4960
Photo of Jason Shankle, Registered Psychotherapist in Denver, CO
Jason Shankle
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, CCBT, CAP, CFM, CMIT
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80206
This is my divine identity to help others fulfill their purpose and heal those in need. I am very much a realist and transparent about my approach to therapy regarding life transitions. I am a firm believer that in order to grow you must know how to water the seeds within.
This is my divine identity to help others fulfill their purpose and heal those in need. I am very much a realist and transparent about my approach to therapy regarding life transitions. I am a firm believer that in order to grow you must know how to water the seeds within.
(720) 606-6030 View (720) 606-6030
Photo of Counseling Colorado, PLLC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Denver, CO
Counseling Colorado, PLLC
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LPC, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80222
Are you living the life you want? Recovery is a choice and I am here to help. Getting help is not a sign of weakness; it is the empowerment of one's internal strength. I have a passion for creating a therapeutic alliance with clients to help them achieve their goals and to become their best self. Utilizing evidence based therapies, I am able to peel back the layers and get to the heart of one's core issues, resulting in healing. Choosing to seek professional help is a big decision and choosing the right counselor is essential to achieving success."
Are you living the life you want? Recovery is a choice and I am here to help. Getting help is not a sign of weakness; it is the empowerment of one's internal strength. I have a passion for creating a therapeutic alliance with clients to help them achieve their goals and to become their best self. Utilizing evidence based therapies, I am able to peel back the layers and get to the heart of one's core issues, resulting in healing. Choosing to seek professional help is a big decision and choosing the right counselor is essential to achieving success."
(720) 548-1604 View (720) 548-1604
Photo of Faye I Maguire, Counselor in Denver, CO
Faye I Maguire
Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211  (Online Only)
Life offers us all challenges, and sometimes those challenges may seem unbearable or especially unique. Some of us experience difficulties from the time we are little children- trauma, abuse, neglect. We each have unique abilities and strengths. Sometimes, we have trouble accessing our strengths, but you have gifts in your being that are your gifts and strengths alone. My goal in working with you is to act as a catalyst -to encourage you to find your talents, abilities, and strengths that will serve you in coping with whatever difficulty life has given you.
Life offers us all challenges, and sometimes those challenges may seem unbearable or especially unique. Some of us experience difficulties from the time we are little children- trauma, abuse, neglect. We each have unique abilities and strengths. Sometimes, we have trouble accessing our strengths, but you have gifts in your being that are your gifts and strengths alone. My goal in working with you is to act as a catalyst -to encourage you to find your talents, abilities, and strengths that will serve you in coping with whatever difficulty life has given you.
(720) 897-1683 View (720) 897-1683
Photo of Shanon Brown, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Shanon Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACD, RYT
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80202  (Online Only)
Counseling is a deeply personal experience, and it is important that you find the right counselor for your needs. If you are interested in learning about and understanding yourself more, motivated to make small changes where needed, and willing to put tools into practice, then we may be a good fit! Globally, we are living in some of the most challenging times we have ever experienced, I am here for you and here with you. If you think we might be a good fit, please don't hesitate to reach out to me to schedule a consultation.
Counseling is a deeply personal experience, and it is important that you find the right counselor for your needs. If you are interested in learning about and understanding yourself more, motivated to make small changes where needed, and willing to put tools into practice, then we may be a good fit! Globally, we are living in some of the most challenging times we have ever experienced, I am here for you and here with you. If you think we might be a good fit, please don't hesitate to reach out to me to schedule a consultation.
(970) 463-7410 View (970) 463-7410
Photo of The Creative Arts Therapy Center of Denver, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
The Creative Arts Therapy Center of Denver
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80206
The Creative Arts Therapy Center of Denver (CATCOD) is a safe, inclusive and accepting space for people of all ages where we promote healing and support through psychotherapy. We offer individual, family and group evidence-based services provided by Licensed Professional Counselors. While we are skilled in traditional methods of verbal therapy and assessment, we are also expertly trained to incorporate artistic modalities when appropriate. Creative arts therapy is not dependent on the outcome of the art and there is no art experience necessary. Rather, art-making contributes to healing, holding and growing into our best selves.
The Creative Arts Therapy Center of Denver (CATCOD) is a safe, inclusive and accepting space for people of all ages where we promote healing and support through psychotherapy. We offer individual, family and group evidence-based services provided by Licensed Professional Counselors. While we are skilled in traditional methods of verbal therapy and assessment, we are also expertly trained to incorporate artistic modalities when appropriate. Creative arts therapy is not dependent on the outcome of the art and there is no art experience necessary. Rather, art-making contributes to healing, holding and growing into our best selves.
(720) 640-8885 View (720) 640-8885
Photo of Christopher A. St. John, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Christopher A. St. John
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80218
More and more people are having trouble knowing who they are or where they belong in life. What we were taught growing up or what we learn from society doesn't make sense or apply any longer. Because of this, we have difficulties from depression to questioning our own belief system. It may appear as confusion, anxiety, anger, or anything that disrupts our day-to-day life. When we feel this way it is a hurt or loss that is almost impossible to describe. My type of counseling presents people with an opportunity to understand why and how they think and feel the way they do and to go deeper than they could have possibly imagined.
More and more people are having trouble knowing who they are or where they belong in life. What we were taught growing up or what we learn from society doesn't make sense or apply any longer. Because of this, we have difficulties from depression to questioning our own belief system. It may appear as confusion, anxiety, anger, or anything that disrupts our day-to-day life. When we feel this way it is a hurt or loss that is almost impossible to describe. My type of counseling presents people with an opportunity to understand why and how they think and feel the way they do and to go deeper than they could have possibly imagined.
(720) 836-1016 View (720) 836-1016
Photo of Tiffany Nerguizian, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Tiffany Nerguizian
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80246  (Online Only)
Are you ready to feel and function better? Feel in control of your emotions and take better care of yourself. It's time to heal Psych Today. There is hope as you begin your journey to wellness.. Let's explore a personal plan for healing in a calm and trusting manner. I work with families, adults and adolescents to help heal from anxiety, depression and trauma. Formerly, I was the USA counselor for Colorado, where I had the joy of working with military families. I received my Masters degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University and opened my practice in 2009.
Are you ready to feel and function better? Feel in control of your emotions and take better care of yourself. It's time to heal Psych Today. There is hope as you begin your journey to wellness.. Let's explore a personal plan for healing in a calm and trusting manner. I work with families, adults and adolescents to help heal from anxiety, depression and trauma. Formerly, I was the USA counselor for Colorado, where I had the joy of working with military families. I received my Masters degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University and opened my practice in 2009.
(720) 817-4531 View (720) 817-4531
Photo of Dr. Amber McGregor, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Dr. Amber McGregor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, EdD, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80216
I know finding the right therapist can be a daunting task. I hope to make that easier. I pride myself on my ability to work with persons in a supportive and encouraging setting. I strongly believe in each persons potential and ability to make changes and create happiness. I hold a doctorate degree in Counseling Psychology and will meet you at 1st Priority Institute for Better Living where the atmosphere is cheerful and hopeful; optimistic for a better tomorrow:).
I know finding the right therapist can be a daunting task. I hope to make that easier. I pride myself on my ability to work with persons in a supportive and encouraging setting. I strongly believe in each persons potential and ability to make changes and create happiness. I hold a doctorate degree in Counseling Psychology and will meet you at 1st Priority Institute for Better Living where the atmosphere is cheerful and hopeful; optimistic for a better tomorrow:).
(720) 802-6622 View (720) 802-6622
Photo of Blackbird Counseling, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Blackbird Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80203
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Addiction Counselor. For the past nine years, I have helped adult individuals and groups heal from mental/behavioral health issues and substance addiction utilizing a variety of evidence-based practices. My approach focuses on cultivating self-acceptance & self-love, learning how to heal through traumatic and difficult experiences to find strength and resiliency. In a therapy session with me, you will find a direct and non-judgmental approach, with humor and warmth. My goal is to empower you to manage difficult emotions & find purpose, passion, and connection in your life.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Addiction Counselor. For the past nine years, I have helped adult individuals and groups heal from mental/behavioral health issues and substance addiction utilizing a variety of evidence-based practices. My approach focuses on cultivating self-acceptance & self-love, learning how to heal through traumatic and difficult experiences to find strength and resiliency. In a therapy session with me, you will find a direct and non-judgmental approach, with humor and warmth. My goal is to empower you to manage difficult emotions & find purpose, passion, and connection in your life.
(720) 575-5664 View (720) 575-5664
Photo of Elizabeth Barber, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Elizabeth Barber
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MBA, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80210
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, stress or a life transition? I believe that a crisis can be an opportunity for tremendous personal growth. The solution to your problems already exists within you, waiting to be discovered. My style is warm, genuine and caring. Sessions are interactive and conversational. I utilize a variety of therapy techniques including CBT, Gestalt, EMDR, Brainspotting, Somatic Experiencing, etc. I have been treating trauma and PTSD for 10 years. Trauma techniques are not offered in a virtual format.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, stress or a life transition? I believe that a crisis can be an opportunity for tremendous personal growth. The solution to your problems already exists within you, waiting to be discovered. My style is warm, genuine and caring. Sessions are interactive and conversational. I utilize a variety of therapy techniques including CBT, Gestalt, EMDR, Brainspotting, Somatic Experiencing, etc. I have been treating trauma and PTSD for 10 years. Trauma techniques are not offered in a virtual format.
(720) 597-8154 View (720) 597-8154
Photo of Daniel Eisenberg, Licensed Social Worker in Denver, CO
Daniel Eisenberg
Licensed Social Worker , LSW, MAPOF
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80246
Hello! I am a somatic (i.e. body-oriented) therapist who is fiercely committed to supporting people who have inherited or experienced trauma to find liberation, release, and joyous thriving. I specialize in helping people process the effects of grief and bereavement as well as the painful tensions that can arise between religion and sexuality. My focus is to support you to cultivate awareness of what is stored in your body and find ways to express and it and release what needs releasing. Our work together will allow you to live with greater dignity, ease and joy.
Hello! I am a somatic (i.e. body-oriented) therapist who is fiercely committed to supporting people who have inherited or experienced trauma to find liberation, release, and joyous thriving. I specialize in helping people process the effects of grief and bereavement as well as the painful tensions that can arise between religion and sexuality. My focus is to support you to cultivate awareness of what is stored in your body and find ways to express and it and release what needs releasing. Our work together will allow you to live with greater dignity, ease and joy.
(720) 770-2798 View (720) 770-2798
Photo of Heartland Healing, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Heartland Healing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMHC, MSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80205  (Online Only)
Heartland Psychotherapy centers LGBTQ+ and other marginalized communities, working with motivated individuals to build insight, confront obstacles to well-being, and heal trauma to move toward self-actualization & joy. Our team of LBGTQ+ and allied therapists represent many identities & theoretical perspectives, and work from queer feminist and family systems frameworks. We value self-determination, holistic health, harm reduction, and disability & racial justice. Relationships are built through collaboration, creativity, and recognition of the environmental & cultural factors that impact clients' lives.
Heartland Psychotherapy centers LGBTQ+ and other marginalized communities, working with motivated individuals to build insight, confront obstacles to well-being, and heal trauma to move toward self-actualization & joy. Our team of LBGTQ+ and allied therapists represent many identities & theoretical perspectives, and work from queer feminist and family systems frameworks. We value self-determination, holistic health, harm reduction, and disability & racial justice. Relationships are built through collaboration, creativity, and recognition of the environmental & cultural factors that impact clients' lives.
(720) 961-2439 View (720) 961-2439
Photo of Roderic Burks, MA, MS, MS H.Sc - Psychotherapist, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Roderic Burks, MA, MS, MS H.Sc - Psychotherapist
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS HSc, MA, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80210  (Online Only)
With over 25 years of experience, Mr. Burks earned graduate degrees with honors in Clinical Counseling from Adams State University, Management and Leadership from George Washington University, and Mind-Body Medicine with an emphasis in Integrative Mental Health from Saybrook University. He also studied in the Clinical Psychology doctorate program at Pacifica Graduate Institute in Depth Psychology. He has studied in graduate programs at the Maryland University of Integrative Health and the University of Santa Monica. His breadth of unique academic accomplishments and clinical training lends to a truly integrative treatment approach.
With over 25 years of experience, Mr. Burks earned graduate degrees with honors in Clinical Counseling from Adams State University, Management and Leadership from George Washington University, and Mind-Body Medicine with an emphasis in Integrative Mental Health from Saybrook University. He also studied in the Clinical Psychology doctorate program at Pacifica Graduate Institute in Depth Psychology. He has studied in graduate programs at the Maryland University of Integrative Health and the University of Santa Monica. His breadth of unique academic accomplishments and clinical training lends to a truly integrative treatment approach.
(720) 606-6202 View (720) 606-6202
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.