Photo of Affective Counseling, Counselor in Barrington, IL
Affective Counseling
Counselor
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
All therapists at Affective Counseling have an emphasis in treating affective (mood) disorders, including Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Dysthymia, and Cyclothymia.
Affective Counseling provides tailored counseling for adults, children, adolescents, couples and families. Our compassionate and knowledgeable staff realize that you face unique life challenges and it is our goal to understand how you see the world, yourself and others so that we can better help you navigate life’s journey. Building on personal strengths, recognizing and challenging negative thoughts and developing tangible coping skills are some of the interventions our staff utilizes to assist you in reaching your personal goals.
All therapists at Affective Counseling have an emphasis in treating affective (mood) disorders, including Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Dysthymia, and Cyclothymia.
Affective Counseling provides tailored counseling for adults, children, adolescents, couples and families. Our compassionate and knowledgeable staff realize that you face unique life challenges and it is our goal to understand how you see the world, yourself and others so that we can better help you navigate life’s journey. Building on personal strengths, recognizing and challenging negative thoughts and developing tangible coping skills are some of the interventions our staff utilizes to assist you in reaching your personal goals.
(224) 228-3656 x2 View (224) 228-3656 x2
Photo of Stephen Kaleb Pollum, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Barrington, IL
Stephen Kaleb Pollum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
Kaleb Pollum is a licensed clinical social worker with experience helping individuals overcome obstacles such as depression, stress, anxiety, identity issues, interpersonal relationships, and effectively managing mood and personality disorders. He specializes in treating borderline personality disorder. Kaleb desires to build meaningful, therapeutic relationships so that his clients can feel at ease and find clarity in their thinking. He utilizes evidence-based and trauma-informed practices such as cognitive behavioral therapy, in-depth psychoanalysis, and adapted dialectical behavior therapy to accomplish this.
Kaleb Pollum is a licensed clinical social worker with experience helping individuals overcome obstacles such as depression, stress, anxiety, identity issues, interpersonal relationships, and effectively managing mood and personality disorders. He specializes in treating borderline personality disorder. Kaleb desires to build meaningful, therapeutic relationships so that his clients can feel at ease and find clarity in their thinking. He utilizes evidence-based and trauma-informed practices such as cognitive behavioral therapy, in-depth psychoanalysis, and adapted dialectical behavior therapy to accomplish this.
(224) 255-2622 View (224) 255-2622
Photo of Diane L. Randall, Psy.D., Psychologist in Barrington, IL
Diane L. Randall, Psy.D.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
Having personally benefited from participation in psychoanalysis, I can say as a patient and a clinician that psychotherapy is transformational. Through the process of becoming more conscious and adopting a broader, deeper perspective of Self, events, and existence, we express our uniqueness. This is individuation; an interesting and exciting journey where new vistas of opportunity begin to open from within. Reassuringly, we already possess inside everything we need for change to occur.
Having personally benefited from participation in psychoanalysis, I can say as a patient and a clinician that psychotherapy is transformational. Through the process of becoming more conscious and adopting a broader, deeper perspective of Self, events, and existence, we express our uniqueness. This is individuation; an interesting and exciting journey where new vistas of opportunity begin to open from within. Reassuringly, we already possess inside everything we need for change to occur.
(224) 347-7377 View (224) 347-7377
Photo of Edward DeBellis, Psychologist in Barrington, IL
Edward DeBellis
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
I have over 30 years of experience treating anxiety, anger, stress, trauma, and sadness and helping improve relationships and enjoyment of life. I can help you find relief from poor self-image, fears, and difficulty concentrating or sleeping. I also offer help with smoking cessation and performance enhancement. If you are ready to change destructive patterns, getting relief is easier than you might expect. I participate actively in the process by offering feedback designed to increase insight into what drives troubling behavior, conflictual relationships, and symptoms.
I have over 30 years of experience treating anxiety, anger, stress, trauma, and sadness and helping improve relationships and enjoyment of life. I can help you find relief from poor self-image, fears, and difficulty concentrating or sleeping. I also offer help with smoking cessation and performance enhancement. If you are ready to change destructive patterns, getting relief is easier than you might expect. I participate actively in the process by offering feedback designed to increase insight into what drives troubling behavior, conflictual relationships, and symptoms.
(224) 243-3942 View (224) 243-3942
Photo of Cherry Hill Counseling in Barrington, IL
Cherry Hill Counseling
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
Cherry Hill Counseling is one of the longest-standing counseling practices in the Northwestern suburbs of Chicago. Cherry Hill has seven locations including: Lake Zurich, Vernon Hills, McHenry, Deer Park, Chicago, Grayslake, and Wheaton. Our counseling services include: individual therapy, family therapy, counseling for children and adolescents, marital and premarital therapy, group therapy, and psychological testing.
Cherry Hill Counseling is one of the longest-standing counseling practices in the Northwestern suburbs of Chicago. Cherry Hill has seven locations including: Lake Zurich, Vernon Hills, McHenry, Deer Park, Chicago, Grayslake, and Wheaton. Our counseling services include: individual therapy, family therapy, counseling for children and adolescents, marital and premarital therapy, group therapy, and psychological testing.
(847) 386-2109 View (847) 386-2109
Photo of Amy Shane, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Barrington, IL
Amy Shane
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrington, IL 60010  (Online Only)
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and PhD Candidate in Illinois and Montana, and specialize in attachment & relational trauma, eating disorders and anxiety. I am currently a PhD Candidate at the Institute for Clinical Social Work with my dissertation research and study focusing on attachment trauma and eating disorders. For individuals working on improving their relationship with food and body image, I practice solely through a Health At Every Size (HAES) approach.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and PhD Candidate in Illinois and Montana, and specialize in attachment & relational trauma, eating disorders and anxiety. I am currently a PhD Candidate at the Institute for Clinical Social Work with my dissertation research and study focusing on attachment trauma and eating disorders. For individuals working on improving their relationship with food and body image, I practice solely through a Health At Every Size (HAES) approach.
(815) 205-5510 View (815) 205-5510
Photo of Jason D Spencer, Counselor in Barrington, IL
Jason D Spencer
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
Not accepting new clients
Depression, anxiety and panic attacks are NOT a sign of weakness, they are a sign that we have tried to remain too strong for too long. As a therapist having worked in the rewarding field of mental health for many years, I have discovered that clients hold the key to their own recovery. I would welcome the opportunity and privilege to walk with you on your life path as together we determine the best method for helping you. As an eclectic therapist, I believe in using a variety of therapies to find what works best for you.
Depression, anxiety and panic attacks are NOT a sign of weakness, they are a sign that we have tried to remain too strong for too long. As a therapist having worked in the rewarding field of mental health for many years, I have discovered that clients hold the key to their own recovery. I would welcome the opportunity and privilege to walk with you on your life path as together we determine the best method for helping you. As an eclectic therapist, I believe in using a variety of therapies to find what works best for you.
(847) 380-7386 View (847) 380-7386

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Innovative Counseling Partners PLLC, Counselor in Barrington, IL
Innovative Counseling Partners PLLC
Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
We have been trained to work with a variety of issues-Depression, Anger, Anxiety (group and individual formats), Bipolar disorder, Trauma, Child and Adolescent work (males and females), Sexual Abuse, Play Therapy, Family therapy, Cultural issues (adapting to the western culture), and Gay/Lesbian family issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
We have been trained to work with a variety of issues-Depression, Anger, Anxiety (group and individual formats), Bipolar disorder, Trauma, Child and Adolescent work (males and females), Sexual Abuse, Play Therapy, Family therapy, Cultural issues (adapting to the western culture), and Gay/Lesbian family issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
(773) 312-3612 View (773) 312-3612
Photo of Mercedes Conus, Licensed Professional Counselor in Barrington, IL
Mercedes Conus
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, EMDR, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
I am a fully bilingual Spanish/English EMDR therapist who treats trauma, post-partum depression, low self-esteem, borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, prolonged grief, school refusal, self-harm, ADHD, bipolar, DID, addiction, disruptive behavior, relationship conflict, and physical, sexual, and emotional abuse.
We all have a story and this story guides us. I believe that life is a journey with good and bad moments. Coping with these challenges could be difficult; why do you have to go through it alone? I believe therapy is a place where you truly find yourself and grow as person. I believe it takes great courage, self insight, and strength to reach out for help. Often when we are adjusting to new life circumstances, we don't realize the importance of acceptance. Therapy is a great place to process, explore and adapt to these changes. In therapy, we will work together to identify your needs and find the best of you.
I am a fully bilingual Spanish/English EMDR therapist who treats trauma, post-partum depression, low self-esteem, borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, prolonged grief, school refusal, self-harm, ADHD, bipolar, DID, addiction, disruptive behavior, relationship conflict, and physical, sexual, and emotional abuse.
We all have a story and this story guides us. I believe that life is a journey with good and bad moments. Coping with these challenges could be difficult; why do you have to go through it alone? I believe therapy is a place where you truly find yourself and grow as person. I believe it takes great courage, self insight, and strength to reach out for help. Often when we are adjusting to new life circumstances, we don't realize the importance of acceptance. Therapy is a great place to process, explore and adapt to these changes. In therapy, we will work together to identify your needs and find the best of you.
(847) 469-9869 View (847) 469-9869
Photo of Patricia M Cerenil in Barrington, IL
Patricia M Cerenil
MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Arlington Heights, IL 60004  (Online Only)
I am well versed in the treatment of grief/loss, anxiety (including separation and social anxiety), suicidal ideation, school/social difficulties, substance use, panic disorder, family conflict, Bipolar Disorder, depression and other mood disorders, ADHD/ADD (adult and children), identity formation and complex trauma.
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, young adults, and those in life transitions. I inspire to cultivate skills in the issues of multiculturalism and diversity practices. I use a client centered, holistic approach to treatment in conjunction with evidenced-based psychotherapy such as DBT and CBT. I incorporate meditation, mindfulness, and behavioral modification techniques into assisting clients with change. My goal in treatment is to help clients reduce problematic symptoms and behaviors, identify root cause of issues and improve overall daily functioning and mood.
I am well versed in the treatment of grief/loss, anxiety (including separation and social anxiety), suicidal ideation, school/social difficulties, substance use, panic disorder, family conflict, Bipolar Disorder, depression and other mood disorders, ADHD/ADD (adult and children), identity formation and complex trauma.
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, young adults, and those in life transitions. I inspire to cultivate skills in the issues of multiculturalism and diversity practices. I use a client centered, holistic approach to treatment in conjunction with evidenced-based psychotherapy such as DBT and CBT. I incorporate meditation, mindfulness, and behavioral modification techniques into assisting clients with change. My goal in treatment is to help clients reduce problematic symptoms and behaviors, identify root cause of issues and improve overall daily functioning and mood.
(847) 485-1591 View (847) 485-1591
Photo of Revival Therapy, Counselor in Barrington, IL
Revival Therapy
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake In The Hills, IL 60102
Our areas of expertise are: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, disordered eating, substance use disorders, personality disorders, grief, divorce, PTSD/trauma, co-dependency, narcissistic abuse, chronic illness, and life adjustments/transitions.
At Revival Therapy believe in compassionate care and authentic connections dedicated towards your wellness. Collectively our professional counselors have over 50 years of experience in the mental heath field working with individuals, couples and families. We believe the key towards your healing lies deeply within you. Our role is to be on the journey with you, helping guide you, and tap into those unrealized or forgotten strengths. We are with you every step of the way on your journey to a personal revival. We are accepting new clients. Let us help you begin your REVIVAL today. Your mental health matters!
Our areas of expertise are: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, disordered eating, substance use disorders, personality disorders, grief, divorce, PTSD/trauma, co-dependency, narcissistic abuse, chronic illness, and life adjustments/transitions.
At Revival Therapy believe in compassionate care and authentic connections dedicated towards your wellness. Collectively our professional counselors have over 50 years of experience in the mental heath field working with individuals, couples and families. We believe the key towards your healing lies deeply within you. Our role is to be on the journey with you, helping guide you, and tap into those unrealized or forgotten strengths. We are with you every step of the way on your journey to a personal revival. We are accepting new clients. Let us help you begin your REVIVAL today. Your mental health matters!
(779) 243-5246 View (779) 243-5246
Photo of Isha Aggarwal, Pre-Licensed Professional in Barrington, IL
Isha Aggarwal
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Schaumburg, IL 60195  (Online Only)
Are you feeling alone in navigating your mental health struggles? Are you struggling with depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, spiritual crisis, or another issue where you feel stuck? I offer sensitive and responsive therapy to help you understand yourself better and navigate through challenging times. I have expertise in mental illness and approach your issues from a gentle, non judgmental place. I’ve worked in severe mental health settings, trauma research, and with refugees. I’ve also facilitated support groups in bipolar disorder and depression.
Are you feeling alone in navigating your mental health struggles? Are you struggling with depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, spiritual crisis, or another issue where you feel stuck? I offer sensitive and responsive therapy to help you understand yourself better and navigate through challenging times. I have expertise in mental illness and approach your issues from a gentle, non judgmental place. I’ve worked in severe mental health settings, trauma research, and with refugees. I’ve also facilitated support groups in bipolar disorder and depression.
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Photo of Madrigal Consulting and Counseling, LLP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Barrington, IL
Madrigal Consulting and Counseling, LLP
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD, MEd, CADC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Arlington Heights, IL 60005
Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. As solution-focused therapists, our goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. As solution-focused therapists, our goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(630) 413-9942 View (630) 413-9942
Photo of Mitchell Hicks, Psychologist in Barrington, IL
Mitchell Hicks
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arlington Heights, IL 60004
I specialize in helping men connect to themselves and others with strength, courage, and authenticity. Are you feeling depressed, anxious, or just that life is not all you had hoped? Are your relationships unfulfilling? Having difficulty letting go of past hurts? Using sex, the internet, work, or social media to avoid others or painful emotions? Does it seem impossible to "get through" to your spouse? Retirement not going well? Has the pandemic knocked you off your game? It’s time for a change. “You, he said, are a terribly real thing in a terribly false world, and that, I believe, is why you’re in so much pain" (Autumn).
I specialize in helping men connect to themselves and others with strength, courage, and authenticity. Are you feeling depressed, anxious, or just that life is not all you had hoped? Are your relationships unfulfilling? Having difficulty letting go of past hurts? Using sex, the internet, work, or social media to avoid others or painful emotions? Does it seem impossible to "get through" to your spouse? Retirement not going well? Has the pandemic knocked you off your game? It’s time for a change. “You, he said, are a terribly real thing in a terribly false world, and that, I believe, is why you’re in so much pain" (Autumn).
(833) 710-7770 x2 View (833) 710-7770 x2
Photo of Restorative Healing Counseling & Psychotherapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Barrington, IL
Restorative Healing Counseling & Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
Welcome! We're so glad you're here. At Restorative Healing, our number one priority is to make sure you receive the best care possible, from the moment you reach out to us and throughout your journey with us. We provide both in-person and teletherapy therapy for adults, adolescents, children, and couples. When you call for your first appointment, we take the time to listen and assess which therapist will be the most compatible with you. Whether you’re dealing with unexplained anxiety, a difficult life event, or you’re just feeling stuck, we take things at your pace and do our best to meet you exactly where you're at.
Welcome! We're so glad you're here. At Restorative Healing, our number one priority is to make sure you receive the best care possible, from the moment you reach out to us and throughout your journey with us. We provide both in-person and teletherapy therapy for adults, adolescents, children, and couples. When you call for your first appointment, we take the time to listen and assess which therapist will be the most compatible with you. Whether you’re dealing with unexplained anxiety, a difficult life event, or you’re just feeling stuck, we take things at your pace and do our best to meet you exactly where you're at.
(224) 470-7683 View (224) 470-7683
Photo of Thomas Czapiewski, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Barrington, IL
Thomas Czapiewski
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buffalo Grove, IL 60089
Tom is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the State of Illinois and is also a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. He has been trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT). He obtained his Masters degree in Human Services from National Louis University.
Tom is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the State of Illinois and is also a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. He has been trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT). He obtained his Masters degree in Human Services from National Louis University.
(224) 223-1727 View (224) 223-1727
Photo of Rebecca Welles, Licensed Professional Counselor in Barrington, IL
Rebecca Welles
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, CRC
Verified Verified
Buffalo Grove, IL 60089
Rebecca is a graduate of Adler University Chicago. In addition to being a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, she is also a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor. Rebecca views the therapeutic process as a holistic experience and is constantly inspired by the courage of the clients she works with. Rebecca has extensive experience working as a Personal Trainer with a specialization in disability, illness, disease and health related issues. Therefore, she strongly believes in the mind-body connection and that change is possible in any situation. Rebecca is also working towards her certification in EMDR and Equine Therapy.
Rebecca is a graduate of Adler University Chicago. In addition to being a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, she is also a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor. Rebecca views the therapeutic process as a holistic experience and is constantly inspired by the courage of the clients she works with. Rebecca has extensive experience working as a Personal Trainer with a specialization in disability, illness, disease and health related issues. Therefore, she strongly believes in the mind-body connection and that change is possible in any situation. Rebecca is also working towards her certification in EMDR and Equine Therapy.
(708) 578-5127 View (708) 578-5127
Photo of The Good Life, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Barrington, IL
The Good Life
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, BC-DMT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buffalo Grove, IL 60089  (Online Only)
Vanessa is a dedicated therapist in Chicago, holding a master's degree in Clinical Psychology and licensures as a Board Certified Dance Movement (BC-DMT) Therapist and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and is completing her doctorate in Expressive Arts Therapy. Vanessa radiates warmth and spunk. It’s not unusual for her clients to experience an array of emotions: crying, laughter, sadness, and hope; all within a single session.
Vanessa is a dedicated therapist in Chicago, holding a master's degree in Clinical Psychology and licensures as a Board Certified Dance Movement (BC-DMT) Therapist and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and is completing her doctorate in Expressive Arts Therapy. Vanessa radiates warmth and spunk. It’s not unusual for her clients to experience an array of emotions: crying, laughter, sadness, and hope; all within a single session.
(847) 499-1407 View (847) 499-1407
Photo of Victoriya Tsaran, Psychologist in Barrington, IL
Victoriya Tsaran
Psychologist, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Buffalo Grove, IL 60089
Over the years, I have developed an eclectic perspective to therapy and utilize a unique combination of psychotherapy, mind-body awareness and hypnotic relaxation techniques, family systems therapy, emotion focused therapy and cognitive behavioral techniques. My wide range of knowledge and competency in various psychological theories allows me to be flexible in my treatment. I aim to revive my patients from the current positions in their lives and help bring in the much needed harmony and infused positivity that will allow my clients to progress in their minds, their mental health and their overall life.
Over the years, I have developed an eclectic perspective to therapy and utilize a unique combination of psychotherapy, mind-body awareness and hypnotic relaxation techniques, family systems therapy, emotion focused therapy and cognitive behavioral techniques. My wide range of knowledge and competency in various psychological theories allows me to be flexible in my treatment. I aim to revive my patients from the current positions in their lives and help bring in the much needed harmony and infused positivity that will allow my clients to progress in their minds, their mental health and their overall life.
(847) 786-2098 View (847) 786-2098
Photo of Ruth Mellenthin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Barrington, IL
Ruth Mellenthin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hoffman Estates, IL 60169  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I hold the strong belief that everyone has the right to be heard with an open mind, regardless of their background or circumstances. I see my role as someone to help you understand yourself, ideally to gain insight and healing. As a clinical social worker, my training has shown me that you, the client, will tell me what you need. Some people need support for a single issue, others need to sort out their past, yet others to plan for their future. We will often find that issues are connected, and strive to put the pieces together.
I hold the strong belief that everyone has the right to be heard with an open mind, regardless of their background or circumstances. I see my role as someone to help you understand yourself, ideally to gain insight and healing. As a clinical social worker, my training has shown me that you, the client, will tell me what you need. Some people need support for a single issue, others need to sort out their past, yet others to plan for their future. We will often find that issues are connected, and strive to put the pieces together.
(888) 870-1775 View (888) 870-1775
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.