Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Jacksonville, FL

Hydee Vanterpool
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32216
I'm proficient in treating Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, PTSD, relationships, self-esteem, couple/family conflict, Trauma, Eating Disorders, Stress Management and Coping Skills.
I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with several years of experience. I've volunteered with several community agencies in the past in the areas of domestic violence, trauma, and family dynamic including improving familial relationships and communication. I have experiencing working with children, adolescents, adults and families in regards to mental health issues, trauma, domestic violence, substance abuse, parenting, marital/family conflict, stress management, school issues, communication, self-esteem in a healthy way using a cognitive behavioral approach.
I'm proficient in treating Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, PTSD, relationships, self-esteem, couple/family conflict, Trauma, Eating Disorders, Stress Management and Coping Skills.
I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with several years of experience. I've volunteered with several community agencies in the past in the areas of domestic violence, trauma, and family dynamic including improving familial relationships and communication. I have experiencing working with children, adolescents, adults and families in regards to mental health issues, trauma, domestic violence, substance abuse, parenting, marital/family conflict, stress management, school issues, communication, self-esteem in a healthy way using a cognitive behavioral approach.
(904) 615-8312 View (904) 615-8312
Photo of Sean Stephens, Psychologist in Jacksonville, FL
Sean Stephens
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32209  (Online Only)
My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, adjustment to medical conditions and other health issues, college aged students, stress management, adjustment issues related to transitions in life, and aging and geriatric issues.
In today’s world, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the daily rigors and uncertainties of life. Thoughts like “am I good enough?” or “can I do this?” typically bring to the surface feelings of sadness, self-doubt and inadequacy. Then, you retreat and live within a dark cloud that could color your experience for years. I teach people strategies to manage themselves so that life doesn't seem so debilitating. As a licensed clinical psychologist, I work together with my patients to identify and change their negative self-talk so that they can face their fears and expand their comfort zone.
My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, adjustment to medical conditions and other health issues, college aged students, stress management, adjustment issues related to transitions in life, and aging and geriatric issues.
In today’s world, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the daily rigors and uncertainties of life. Thoughts like “am I good enough?” or “can I do this?” typically bring to the surface feelings of sadness, self-doubt and inadequacy. Then, you retreat and live within a dark cloud that could color your experience for years. I teach people strategies to manage themselves so that life doesn't seem so debilitating. As a licensed clinical psychologist, I work together with my patients to identify and change their negative self-talk so that they can face their fears and expand their comfort zone.
(239) 932-7012 View (239) 932-7012
Photo of Nicole Ernst, Mental Health Counselor in Jacksonville, FL
Nicole Ernst
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32277
I am a licensed mental health counselor with 17 years in the field. I have worked with clients from as young as 3 to the elderly, in areas such as addiction, anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, family communication, bipolar disorder and psychosis. I also have a specialty in trauma.
I am a licensed mental health counselor with 17 years in the field. I have worked with clients from as young as 3 to the elderly, in areas such as addiction, anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, family communication, bipolar disorder and psychosis. I also have a specialty in trauma.
(305) 517-1329 View (305) 517-1329
Photo of Systems Family Therapy, LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Jacksonville, FL
Systems Family Therapy, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, C-PD, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32201  (Online Only)
We also specialize in managing Borderline Personality Disorder, Mood Disorder, Trauma/PTSD and Bipolar Disorder.
If you’re feeling lost, broken, helpless …Alone. We can help. We make talking easy, confidential and safe. We work well with shy, socially anxious or nervous people. We’re ready and we can make a difference!
We also specialize in managing Borderline Personality Disorder, Mood Disorder, Trauma/PTSD and Bipolar Disorder.
If you’re feeling lost, broken, helpless …Alone. We can help. We make talking easy, confidential and safe. We work well with shy, socially anxious or nervous people. We’re ready and we can make a difference!
(407) 205-7236 View (407) 205-7236
Photo of Roselyn Ortega, Counselor in Jacksonville, FL
Roselyn Ortega
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32209  (Online Only)
I have years of experience with a variety of disorders most comfortable and experienced with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, life transition problems, PTSD, sexual abuse, human trafficking, and trauma.
With a passion for helping others achieve their greatest potential, providing a safe and comfortable atmosphere to clients to lay the groundwork for open communication and personal accomplishments. Investing in clients and working with them to achieve their therapeutic goals is a priority. The ideal outcome is to help clients to learn skills that they can use in all settings and relationships and support them as they function in all areas of their life holistically. The idea is they find inner peace and personal joy.
I have years of experience with a variety of disorders most comfortable and experienced with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, life transition problems, PTSD, sexual abuse, human trafficking, and trauma.
With a passion for helping others achieve their greatest potential, providing a safe and comfortable atmosphere to clients to lay the groundwork for open communication and personal accomplishments. Investing in clients and working with them to achieve their therapeutic goals is a priority. The ideal outcome is to help clients to learn skills that they can use in all settings and relationships and support them as they function in all areas of their life holistically. The idea is they find inner peace and personal joy.
(772) 238-5153 View (772) 238-5153
Photo of Lynnell Moss, Marriage & Family Therapist in Jacksonville, FL
Lynnell Moss
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32256
I am a License Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10 years of clinical experience working with various individuals, couples, and families with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, PTSD, Sexual Abuse, and Personality Disorders. I often utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution-focused Therapy, Trauma-focused therapy, and Gestalt techniques, but I also use other approaches. I believe in working adamantly to make a real difference, using an authentic and gentle style.
I am a License Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10 years of clinical experience working with various individuals, couples, and families with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, PTSD, Sexual Abuse, and Personality Disorders. I often utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution-focused Therapy, Trauma-focused therapy, and Gestalt techniques, but I also use other approaches. I believe in working adamantly to make a real difference, using an authentic and gentle style.
(407) 449-8255 View (407) 449-8255
Photo of Chermora Johnson, Counselor in Jacksonville, FL
Chermora Johnson
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32224
I work with trauma, depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
Hello, my name is Chermora Johnson, a Licensed Mental Health therapist. I have experience with adolescence, substance abuse, crisis, trauma, depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. I have worked with various substance abuse and crisis intervention for several years. I work with trauma, depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. I used the following theoretical approach of person-centered, cognitive-behavioral, motivational-interview, Gestalt, solution-focused, and WRAP approach.
I work with trauma, depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
Hello, my name is Chermora Johnson, a Licensed Mental Health therapist. I have experience with adolescence, substance abuse, crisis, trauma, depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. I have worked with various substance abuse and crisis intervention for several years. I work with trauma, depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. I used the following theoretical approach of person-centered, cognitive-behavioral, motivational-interview, Gestalt, solution-focused, and WRAP approach.
(904) 447-1473 View (904) 447-1473
Photo of Tara Louise McNamara, Counselor in Jacksonville, FL
Tara Louise McNamara
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32224
I have worked with individuals experiencing a variety of disorders such as depression, PTSD, anxiety and bipolar disorder.
Hope. I hear that so much in therapy. Is there hope? Will things get better? My answer is there will always be hope. Hope brought you to this website. Hope motivates us and with the help of a therapeutic alliance provides insight and a course foward. My goal is to teach you tools and provide a environment in which you feel secure in sharing your experiences.
I have worked with individuals experiencing a variety of disorders such as depression, PTSD, anxiety and bipolar disorder.
Hope. I hear that so much in therapy. Is there hope? Will things get better? My answer is there will always be hope. Hope brought you to this website. Hope motivates us and with the help of a therapeutic alliance provides insight and a course foward. My goal is to teach you tools and provide a environment in which you feel secure in sharing your experiences.
(904) 875-5346 View (904) 875-5346
Photo of Stephanie Ortiz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jacksonville, FL
Stephanie Ortiz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32216
My background specializes in suicide prevention and intervention, Anxiety Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Schizophrenia, and PTSD.
Hello, I’m Stephanie! If you’ve made it this far and it’s your first time pursuing therapy, congratulations! Deciding to begin therapy can be intimidating, but it can also be incredibly life changing. If this isn’t your first go-around, I commend you for continuing to invest in yourself and look forward to working with you in this next chapter of your journey.
My background specializes in suicide prevention and intervention, Anxiety Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Schizophrenia, and PTSD.
Hello, I’m Stephanie! If you’ve made it this far and it’s your first time pursuing therapy, congratulations! Deciding to begin therapy can be intimidating, but it can also be incredibly life changing. If this isn’t your first go-around, I commend you for continuing to invest in yourself and look forward to working with you in this next chapter of your journey.
(904) 560-8520 View (904) 560-8520
Photo of Jonathan Valletta, Counselor in Jacksonville, FL
Jonathan Valletta
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC, MCAP
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32207
Mr. Jonathan Valletta is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and Masters Level Certified Addiction Professional (MCAP). He offers counseling treatment for adults and adolescents in areas such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use, adjustment disorders, relationship issues, trauma, and personality traits. He applies a mindfulness approach with clients to help develop coping skills to more effectively manage stress, anger and difficulties regulating emotions.
Mr. Jonathan Valletta is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and Masters Level Certified Addiction Professional (MCAP). He offers counseling treatment for adults and adolescents in areas such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use, adjustment disorders, relationship issues, trauma, and personality traits. He applies a mindfulness approach with clients to help develop coping skills to more effectively manage stress, anger and difficulties regulating emotions.
(904) 720-4526 View (904) 720-4526
Photo of Yolanda Tingler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jacksonville, FL
Yolanda Tingler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32207
Hello! My name is Yolanda Tingler, but I prefer to be called Rhonda. My license number in FL is SW13846. I treat a variety of conditions including but not limited to ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar, Personality Disorders, OCD, Phobias, Trauma, Military life issues, etc using a variety of techniques. I specialize in individual, family, and group therapy for both Deaf/Hard of Hearing, people with disabilities, and hearing individuals. I have been a Sign Language Interpreter for 25 years so I am fluent in American Sign Language. I also work with college students as I am knowledgeable regarding student issues and academic needs
Hello! My name is Yolanda Tingler, but I prefer to be called Rhonda. My license number in FL is SW13846. I treat a variety of conditions including but not limited to ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar, Personality Disorders, OCD, Phobias, Trauma, Military life issues, etc using a variety of techniques. I specialize in individual, family, and group therapy for both Deaf/Hard of Hearing, people with disabilities, and hearing individuals. I have been a Sign Language Interpreter for 25 years so I am fluent in American Sign Language. I also work with college students as I am knowledgeable regarding student issues and academic needs
(904) 747-9055 View (904) 747-9055
Photo of Ashlyn Knight, Counselor in Jacksonville, FL
Ashlyn Knight
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32224  (Online Only)
I have experience with adolescents to elder adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, addiction, and an array of other issues including bipolar disorder, relationship issues, stress, and personality disorders.
I am so proud of you for making this first step in looking for a therapist! Are you feeling depressed, anxious, or overwhelmed? Are you wanting to improve your relationships with the people that mean the most to you? Are you having a hard time making decisions? You're in the right place! My goal is to help you through these tough times. You deserve to feel at peace with yourself and with your life and I want to help you get there. I am currently taking on new clients and look forward to meeting you.
I have experience with adolescents to elder adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, addiction, and an array of other issues including bipolar disorder, relationship issues, stress, and personality disorders.
I am so proud of you for making this first step in looking for a therapist! Are you feeling depressed, anxious, or overwhelmed? Are you wanting to improve your relationships with the people that mean the most to you? Are you having a hard time making decisions? You're in the right place! My goal is to help you through these tough times. You deserve to feel at peace with yourself and with your life and I want to help you get there. I am currently taking on new clients and look forward to meeting you.
(904) 780-9252 View (904) 780-9252
Photo of Brightside Health, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jacksonville, FL
Brightside Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32211  (Online Only)
We specialize in depression, anxiety, and a wide range of related conditions including: bipolar disorder, panic disorder and attacks, phobias, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), postpartum depression, social anxiety, seasonal affective disorder (SAD), insomnia, premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), and more.
Brightside Health is an online mental health service delivering life-changing care for anxiety and depression from the comfort of home, with appointments available in as little as 24 hours. We provide personalized, data-driven psychiatry, evidence-based therapy, and continuous support from expert providers to help our members feel better and stay that way. At Brightside, we track your progress at every step so you and your provider can make informed decisions and adjust your care until it’s right for you.
We specialize in depression, anxiety, and a wide range of related conditions including: bipolar disorder, panic disorder and attacks, phobias, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), postpartum depression, social anxiety, seasonal affective disorder (SAD), insomnia, premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), and more.
Brightside Health is an online mental health service delivering life-changing care for anxiety and depression from the comfort of home, with appointments available in as little as 24 hours. We provide personalized, data-driven psychiatry, evidence-based therapy, and continuous support from expert providers to help our members feel better and stay that way. At Brightside, we track your progress at every step so you and your provider can make informed decisions and adjust your care until it’s right for you.
(415) 940-7386 View (415) 940-7386
Photo of Ron Cipriano and Associates Counseling, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Jacksonville, FL
Ron Cipriano and Associates Counseling
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, CAP
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32256
We also provide counseling for mental health issues such as: mood and anxiety disorders;major depression, bipolar, dual diagnosis, OCD, & PTSD.
WE ARE REALLY AT THE BEACH!!! Ron Cipriano is the Treatment Director for the Substance Abuse IOP (Intensive Outpatient Program) at the Jacksonville Beach office of Ron Cipriano and Associates Counseling. There are daytime and a night time groups available. In addition to substance abuse, alcoholism and drug addiction groups, I also have individual counseling sessions for addictions and mental health/family/marital counseling.
We also provide counseling for mental health issues such as: mood and anxiety disorders;major depression, bipolar, dual diagnosis, OCD, & PTSD.
WE ARE REALLY AT THE BEACH!!! Ron Cipriano is the Treatment Director for the Substance Abuse IOP (Intensive Outpatient Program) at the Jacksonville Beach office of Ron Cipriano and Associates Counseling. There are daytime and a night time groups available. In addition to substance abuse, alcoholism and drug addiction groups, I also have individual counseling sessions for addictions and mental health/family/marital counseling.
(904) 503-2634 View (904) 503-2634
Photo of Karen Klein, Counselor in Jacksonville, FL
Karen Klein
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32225
I have been a therapist for more than 25 years working with clients suffering from depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder and personality disorders. I have worked extensively with those who have issues with substance abuse, childhood sexual abuse and relationship conflicts.
I have been a therapist for more than 25 years working with clients suffering from depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder and personality disorders. I have worked extensively with those who have issues with substance abuse, childhood sexual abuse and relationship conflicts.
(904) 614-2353 View (904) 614-2353
Photo of Maria Owens, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jacksonville, FL
Maria Owens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32218  (Online Only)
I provide therapy for individuals experiencing various mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, work and school stress, relationship problems, adjustment issues, grief, trauma and PTSD, dissociation, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, substance use, ADHD, psychosis, physical pain, illness and personality disorders.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 18 years of experience in mental health. I received a BA in Clinical Psychology from The College of NJ in 2005 and my MSW from Rutgers University in 2011. I worked in community mental health and served clients living with traumatic brain injuries, chronic illnesses, substance use disorders, and disabilities. In my years as a hospice social worker, I counseled individuals, groups, and families of all ages through end-of-life issues such as grief, discomfort, advocacy, communication, and planning. Eventually, I made the switch to becoming a therapist.
I provide therapy for individuals experiencing various mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, work and school stress, relationship problems, adjustment issues, grief, trauma and PTSD, dissociation, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, substance use, ADHD, psychosis, physical pain, illness and personality disorders.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 18 years of experience in mental health. I received a BA in Clinical Psychology from The College of NJ in 2005 and my MSW from Rutgers University in 2011. I worked in community mental health and served clients living with traumatic brain injuries, chronic illnesses, substance use disorders, and disabilities. In my years as a hospice social worker, I counseled individuals, groups, and families of all ages through end-of-life issues such as grief, discomfort, advocacy, communication, and planning. Eventually, I made the switch to becoming a therapist.
(551) 465-9177 View (551) 465-9177
Photo of Doug C Gorospe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jacksonville, FL
Doug C Gorospe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32244
Are life's challenges taking their toll? Are you feeling down and depressed or stressed, losing focus maintaining your daily activities, goals with self, family or work? These emotions can be overwhelming, but you are not alone, and I can help. I'm a licensed clinical social worker with over 25 years of experience. I received my Master’s degree in social work from Florida State University and am licensed since 1993. I provide therapy for adolescents, adults, and couples. I specialize in treating mood disorders, depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, bipolar disorder, substance abuse and other addictions, and compulsive behaviors.
Are life's challenges taking their toll? Are you feeling down and depressed or stressed, losing focus maintaining your daily activities, goals with self, family or work? These emotions can be overwhelming, but you are not alone, and I can help. I'm a licensed clinical social worker with over 25 years of experience. I received my Master’s degree in social work from Florida State University and am licensed since 1993. I provide therapy for adolescents, adults, and couples. I specialize in treating mood disorders, depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, bipolar disorder, substance abuse and other addictions, and compulsive behaviors.
(904) 800-5020 View (904) 800-5020
Photo of Amy Singleton, MA, LMHC, Counselor in Jacksonville, FL
Amy Singleton, MA, LMHC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32256
Do you or a family member suffer from anxiety, depression or Bipolar disorder? Are you struggling to maintain effective and rewarding relationships with your partner or children? These are several of the issues that diminish the quality of day-to-day life for so many of my clients. Hello, my name is Amy and I am here to help. I am a licensed mental health counselor(LMHC) providing therapy services in the Orlando area. I use an eclectic therapeutic approach to arm my clients with a variety of techniques to initiate lasting change. Feel free to email me at my website at amylmhc.com.
Do you or a family member suffer from anxiety, depression or Bipolar disorder? Are you struggling to maintain effective and rewarding relationships with your partner or children? These are several of the issues that diminish the quality of day-to-day life for so many of my clients. Hello, my name is Amy and I am here to help. I am a licensed mental health counselor(LMHC) providing therapy services in the Orlando area. I use an eclectic therapeutic approach to arm my clients with a variety of techniques to initiate lasting change. Feel free to email me at my website at amylmhc.com.
(813) 437-9621 View (813) 437-9621
Photo of Dr. Laura Fernandez, Psychologist in Jacksonville, FL
Dr. Laura Fernandez
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32204
As a licensed clinical psychologist I employ evidence-based treatments to help clients with improvement of identity issues, assertiveness, emotional regulation, low self-esteem, narcissistic abuse, ethnic or racial discrimination, or have gone through traumatic events. I employ DBT, CBT, and EMDR to treat my clients. I specialize in assisting LGBT and transgender individuals, as well as those with Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, Depression and Anxiety. My typical client is a person who has experienced trauma, has self esteem and boundary issues, has problems maintaining relationships, needs help asserting self. Hablo Espanol!
As a licensed clinical psychologist I employ evidence-based treatments to help clients with improvement of identity issues, assertiveness, emotional regulation, low self-esteem, narcissistic abuse, ethnic or racial discrimination, or have gone through traumatic events. I employ DBT, CBT, and EMDR to treat my clients. I specialize in assisting LGBT and transgender individuals, as well as those with Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, Depression and Anxiety. My typical client is a person who has experienced trauma, has self esteem and boundary issues, has problems maintaining relationships, needs help asserting self. Hablo Espanol!
(786) 868-7017 View (786) 868-7017
Photo of Pauline DELINOIS in Jacksonville, FL
Pauline DELINOIS
APRN, ARNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32223  (Online Only)
My ideal client seeks help for personal development, approaching challenges with openness, and a willingness to participate in the therapeutic process. They may be dealing with stress, anxiety, or life transitions and seek coping strategies and a better understanding of their emotions. Their goal is to build resilience, improve overall health, and improve their quality of life. My ideal client is driven by a desire for self-discovery, values collaboration, communicates openly and is dedicated to positive change.
My ideal client seeks help for personal development, approaching challenges with openness, and a willingness to participate in the therapeutic process. They may be dealing with stress, anxiety, or life transitions and seek coping strategies and a better understanding of their emotions. Their goal is to build resilience, improve overall health, and improve their quality of life. My ideal client is driven by a desire for self-discovery, values collaboration, communicates openly and is dedicated to positive change.
(904) 478-8766 View (904) 478-8766

See more therapy options for Jacksonville

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.