Photo of Sarah Prendergast, Counselor in Naperville, IL
Sarah Prendergast
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540
I work with adolescents, young adults and adults who are struggling with depression, generalized anxiety, panic attacks, social anxiety, ADHD, addiction, Bipolar disorder, emotional/behavioral disorders, grief/loss, trauma, stress, relationship issues and adjustment to developmental and life transitions.
My therapeutic approach is supportive, engaging, and collaborative. I work to foster trust and compassion with every client and family I see using a more interactive approach. My goal is to help my clients identify goals and learn strategies to achieve these goals through techniques tailored specifically for them. I also enjoy using humor in my sessions to engage clients and help them feel at ease. I have 15 years experience working in mental health and a Master of Arts degree from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology in Clinical Psychology with a specialization in Counseling.
I work with adolescents, young adults and adults who are struggling with depression, generalized anxiety, panic attacks, social anxiety, ADHD, addiction, Bipolar disorder, emotional/behavioral disorders, grief/loss, trauma, stress, relationship issues and adjustment to developmental and life transitions.
My therapeutic approach is supportive, engaging, and collaborative. I work to foster trust and compassion with every client and family I see using a more interactive approach. My goal is to help my clients identify goals and learn strategies to achieve these goals through techniques tailored specifically for them. I also enjoy using humor in my sessions to engage clients and help them feel at ease. I have 15 years experience working in mental health and a Master of Arts degree from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology in Clinical Psychology with a specialization in Counseling.
(630) 984-1610 x1 View (630) 984-1610 x1
Photo of Angela Johnson, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Naperville, IL
Angela Johnson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540
My name is Angela Johnson, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 15 years of clinical experience working with young adults and the LGBTQ+ community with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, PTSD, and Panic Attacks. I utilize a combination of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Couples Therapy, Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma Focused during my treatments with clients. I believe it is also my job to help clients learn about themselves and determine what is important and what is not.
My name is Angela Johnson, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 15 years of clinical experience working with young adults and the LGBTQ+ community with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, PTSD, and Panic Attacks. I utilize a combination of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Couples Therapy, Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma Focused during my treatments with clients. I believe it is also my job to help clients learn about themselves and determine what is important and what is not.
(224) 970-2777 View (224) 970-2777
Photo of Lisa Banner, Counselor in Naperville, IL
Lisa Banner
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
I have an extensive background working with teens and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, self-injury, bipolar, and ADD/ADHD.
Sometimes asking for help can be the hardest thing to do. You're almost there. For the past 20 years, I've been helping individuals and families get to a better place emotionally and mentally. Through the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, being Solution Focused, and using Mindfulness, I'll teach you the skills, provide you with support and help you through a difficult time.
I have an extensive background working with teens and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, self-injury, bipolar, and ADD/ADHD.
Sometimes asking for help can be the hardest thing to do. You're almost there. For the past 20 years, I've been helping individuals and families get to a better place emotionally and mentally. Through the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, being Solution Focused, and using Mindfulness, I'll teach you the skills, provide you with support and help you through a difficult time.
(331) 241-6357 x630254 View (331) 241-6357 x630254
Photo of Liza Devaney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Naperville, IL
Liza Devaney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
I have over twenty years of social work experience. I have worked in foster care and adoption, in a psychiatric hospital and am currently working in private practice. My patients include children, adolescents, adults and couples. I treat depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief issues, conflict resolution, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, social anxiety, OCD, addictions, issues related to divorce and family/marital conflicts. I use a variety of treatment modalities based on the individual needs of the patient. My therapeutic approach is a non-judgmental blending of eastern and western philosophies thereby helping patients develop acceptance and develop better coping strategies to deal with their challenges.
I have over twenty years of social work experience. I have worked in foster care and adoption, in a psychiatric hospital and am currently working in private practice. My patients include children, adolescents, adults and couples. I treat depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief issues, conflict resolution, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, social anxiety, OCD, addictions, issues related to divorce and family/marital conflicts. I use a variety of treatment modalities based on the individual needs of the patient. My therapeutic approach is a non-judgmental blending of eastern and western philosophies thereby helping patients develop acceptance and develop better coping strategies to deal with their challenges.
(630) 884-4319 x2 View (630) 884-4319 x2
Photo of Jodette Kwasniak-Wheat, Counselor in Naperville, IL
Jodette Kwasniak-Wheat
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
My focus is in the area of child/adolescent mental health. I have special interest in the treatment of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and various behavioral issues. My practice offers a safe and accepting environment.
My focus is in the area of child/adolescent mental health. I have special interest in the treatment of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and various behavioral issues. My practice offers a safe and accepting environment.
(630) 338-0601 View (630) 338-0601
Photo of Lindsay Prombaum, Counselor in Naperville, IL
Lindsay Prombaum
Counselor, LCPC, CCATP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Areas of practice include: Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, grief/loss, Bipolar Disorder, adjustment issues, suicidal thoughts or behaviors, self-injury, and school struggles.
I am a licensed mental health therapist and certified clinical anxiety treatment provider, working with adolescents and adults to take the necessary steps to improve their well-being. I use compassion, humor, warmth, and respect to connect with clients and their experiences, and my approach focuses on listening, mutual feedback, and collaborative participation in session. Healthy coping skills, self-esteem, communication, and relationships are also focused on, in order to build a stable foundation for continued success.
Areas of practice include: Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, grief/loss, Bipolar Disorder, adjustment issues, suicidal thoughts or behaviors, self-injury, and school struggles.
I am a licensed mental health therapist and certified clinical anxiety treatment provider, working with adolescents and adults to take the necessary steps to improve their well-being. I use compassion, humor, warmth, and respect to connect with clients and their experiences, and my approach focuses on listening, mutual feedback, and collaborative participation in session. Healthy coping skills, self-esteem, communication, and relationships are also focused on, in order to build a stable foundation for continued success.
(630) 243-5216 View (630) 243-5216
Photo of Katrina Ramirez, Pre-Licensed Professional in Naperville, IL
Katrina Ramirez
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
Dr. Ramirez has experience providing individual and group therapy to adolescents, young adults, and adults. She engages clients in therapy with enthusiasm, warmth, and compassion. Dr. Ramirez specializes in working with individuals who struggle with drug/behavioral addictions, bipolar disorder, depression, trauma, and psychosis. Further, she enjoys working with co-occurring disorders and acute mental health symptoms where she utilizes an empathic and strength-focused approach. Creating a safe space for her clients is her utmost priority, recognizing the challenges that are innate to those suffering with mental health disorders.
Dr. Ramirez has experience providing individual and group therapy to adolescents, young adults, and adults. She engages clients in therapy with enthusiasm, warmth, and compassion. Dr. Ramirez specializes in working with individuals who struggle with drug/behavioral addictions, bipolar disorder, depression, trauma, and psychosis. Further, she enjoys working with co-occurring disorders and acute mental health symptoms where she utilizes an empathic and strength-focused approach. Creating a safe space for her clients is her utmost priority, recognizing the challenges that are innate to those suffering with mental health disorders.
(331) 702-9422 View (331) 702-9422
Photo of Jillian King, Counselor in Naperville, IL
Jillian King
Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Areas of specialization include the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar, substance use, and life transitions.
By utilizing a warm and understanding approach, Jill focuses on addressing unhealthy behaviors and patterns which may prevent awareness and growth for her clients.
Areas of specialization include the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar, substance use, and life transitions.
By utilizing a warm and understanding approach, Jill focuses on addressing unhealthy behaviors and patterns which may prevent awareness and growth for her clients.
(331) 321-4235 View (331) 321-4235
Photo of Laura Lange, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Naperville, IL
Laura Lange
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, CODP I, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60564  (Online Only)
I work with both adolescents and adults who experience anxiety, trauma, OCD, depression, life transitions, substance use, grief, attachment issues, ADHD, bipolar disorder, mood disorders as well as couples who need assistance with premarital counseling, effective communication and understanding each others love languages.
In a world where selecting the right therapist can feel like navigating a sea of profiles and introductions, I aim to make your decision easier. I am a therapist who brings both professionalism and compassion to the table. My love for this profession runs deep, and I understand the importance of finding a therapist who creates a comfortable and safe space for you. Together we can navigate the tough stuff and celebrate the victories that lie in between. We will embark on a voyage of self-exploration where I will provide guidance, support, and practice tools to help you navigate the intricate landscape of your thoughts and emotions.
I work with both adolescents and adults who experience anxiety, trauma, OCD, depression, life transitions, substance use, grief, attachment issues, ADHD, bipolar disorder, mood disorders as well as couples who need assistance with premarital counseling, effective communication and understanding each others love languages.
In a world where selecting the right therapist can feel like navigating a sea of profiles and introductions, I aim to make your decision easier. I am a therapist who brings both professionalism and compassion to the table. My love for this profession runs deep, and I understand the importance of finding a therapist who creates a comfortable and safe space for you. Together we can navigate the tough stuff and celebrate the victories that lie in between. We will embark on a voyage of self-exploration where I will provide guidance, support, and practice tools to help you navigate the intricate landscape of your thoughts and emotions.
(331) 244-5211 View (331) 244-5211
Photo of Leah K Neu Weiland, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Naperville, IL
Leah K Neu Weiland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540
Leah works primarily with Adolescents and Adults working through a variety of disorders including substance abuse, anxiety, ADHD, depression, bipolar, dual diagnosis, abuse, and trauma. Leah uses a variety of methods to help patients identify, process, and cope with their life challenges. Leah uses a variety of methods to combine a functional treatment plan so that clients can be able to help themselves process daily struggles to lead a productive lifestyles. .
Leah works primarily with Adolescents and Adults working through a variety of disorders including substance abuse, anxiety, ADHD, depression, bipolar, dual diagnosis, abuse, and trauma. Leah uses a variety of methods to help patients identify, process, and cope with their life challenges. Leah uses a variety of methods to combine a functional treatment plan so that clients can be able to help themselves process daily struggles to lead a productive lifestyles. .
(630) 283-8275 View (630) 283-8275
Photo of Apolonia Kasprzyk, Licensed Professional Counselor in Naperville, IL
Apolonia Kasprzyk
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, CADC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
Apolonia Kasprzyk, LPC, is a licensed professional counselor who primarily works with individuals of all ages. Apolonia is also a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, thus reflecting her additional training in working with substance use disorders and dual diagnoses. She has worked in both outpatient and inpatient settings. Apolonia specializes in the treatment of addiction, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, stress management, substance abuse, dual diagnoses, and trauma.
Apolonia Kasprzyk, LPC, is a licensed professional counselor who primarily works with individuals of all ages. Apolonia is also a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, thus reflecting her additional training in working with substance use disorders and dual diagnoses. She has worked in both outpatient and inpatient settings. Apolonia specializes in the treatment of addiction, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, stress management, substance abuse, dual diagnoses, and trauma.
(224) 308-1814 View (224) 308-1814
Photo of Denika Shanta McMillen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Naperville, IL
Denika Shanta McMillen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
I specialize in working with adults and adolescents of color, LGBTQ+, and individuals confronted with a range of life challenges from depression, anxiety, bipolar, HIV/AIDS, homelessness, and substance abuse.
When people feel isolated or alone in their situation, they need someone else to help them gain a new perspective, feel differently, or at times escape the state at hand. My philosophy is to view therapy as if it were a "tune up" to help people keep operating through life. Just like cars need regular tune ups and oil changes to keep running smoothly, people also need regular check-ins and support for internal issues. This is especially important for people of color and minority populations because they face additional societal challenges (including microaggressions) that may or may not be overt but are often painful.
I specialize in working with adults and adolescents of color, LGBTQ+, and individuals confronted with a range of life challenges from depression, anxiety, bipolar, HIV/AIDS, homelessness, and substance abuse.
When people feel isolated or alone in their situation, they need someone else to help them gain a new perspective, feel differently, or at times escape the state at hand. My philosophy is to view therapy as if it were a "tune up" to help people keep operating through life. Just like cars need regular tune ups and oil changes to keep running smoothly, people also need regular check-ins and support for internal issues. This is especially important for people of color and minority populations because they face additional societal challenges (including microaggressions) that may or may not be overt but are often painful.
(331) 246-0805 View (331) 246-0805
Photo of Walter Gaskew IV, Counselor in Naperville, IL
Walter Gaskew IV
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Practicing Counselor (LCPC) and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC). I began working in the mental health field in 2012 at an inpatient mental health facility in Chicago working with individuals who struggled with behavioral disorders. Since then, I have worked with and assisted individuals with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and substance use disorder issues in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I connect well with both men and women.
I am a Licensed Clinical Practicing Counselor (LCPC) and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC). I began working in the mental health field in 2012 at an inpatient mental health facility in Chicago working with individuals who struggled with behavioral disorders. Since then, I have worked with and assisted individuals with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and substance use disorder issues in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I connect well with both men and women.
(331) 225-1657 View (331) 225-1657
Photo of Jodi Craft Bates, Licensed Professional Counselor in Naperville, IL
Jodi Craft Bates
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
I have experience in the treatment of addictions, anxiety, and depression. I am also experienced working with trauma, bipolar and borderline personality disorders. I graduated from Colorado Christian University in 2020 with my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I am currently working on my CSAT certification. Prior to gaining my Master's in Clinical Mental Health, I worked in non-profit outreach providing services such as psychoeducation in anger management to marginalized population groups and people operations providing recruiting, career development, and human resources support.
I have experience in the treatment of addictions, anxiety, and depression. I am also experienced working with trauma, bipolar and borderline personality disorders. I graduated from Colorado Christian University in 2020 with my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I am currently working on my CSAT certification. Prior to gaining my Master's in Clinical Mental Health, I worked in non-profit outreach providing services such as psychoeducation in anger management to marginalized population groups and people operations providing recruiting, career development, and human resources support.
(872) 219-1683 View (872) 219-1683
Photo of Alex E McKibbin MS LCPC, Counselor in Naperville, IL
Alex E McKibbin MS LCPC
Counselor, MS, LCPC, LSOTP, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60540
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults who are comfortable with a one on one approach to counseling. Working with children in therapy always involves working with the parents. As with adolescents, providing them with a sense of privacy and trust is something I try to develop from the very beginning. For adults, privacy, confidentiality, and respect occur in a atmosphere of warmth and patience. If you are dealing with Attention Deficit Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Panic attacks, Bipolar Disorder, or Post Traumatic Stress, I am sure you will find the relief you are looking for at my office.
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults who are comfortable with a one on one approach to counseling. Working with children in therapy always involves working with the parents. As with adolescents, providing them with a sense of privacy and trust is something I try to develop from the very beginning. For adults, privacy, confidentiality, and respect occur in a atmosphere of warmth and patience. If you are dealing with Attention Deficit Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Panic attacks, Bipolar Disorder, or Post Traumatic Stress, I am sure you will find the relief you are looking for at my office.
(331) 244-5638 View (331) 244-5638
Photo of Claudia Mellott, Counselor in Naperville, IL
Claudia Mellott
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540
Emotional pain will drain you of the energy needed to enjoy life. Whether symptoms are situational or involve pervasive life-long pain, I would like to help. I believe in the resilience of the human spirit and an individual's right to make their life happier. You are hoping to see positive change in your life, which is a reasonable goal. I am a licensed, experienced therapist working with adults and adolescents. Anxiety, depression, bipolar, relationships, communication, substance abuse aftercare and life transitions are areas of expertise. Anxiety and worry are debilitating and unproductive. Depression negatively impacts your physical health .
Emotional pain will drain you of the energy needed to enjoy life. Whether symptoms are situational or involve pervasive life-long pain, I would like to help. I believe in the resilience of the human spirit and an individual's right to make their life happier. You are hoping to see positive change in your life, which is a reasonable goal. I am a licensed, experienced therapist working with adults and adolescents. Anxiety, depression, bipolar, relationships, communication, substance abuse aftercare and life transitions are areas of expertise. Anxiety and worry are debilitating and unproductive. Depression negatively impacts your physical health .
(630) 663-0793 View (630) 663-0793
Photo of Chelsea (Derks) Knight, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Naperville, IL
Chelsea (Derks) Knight
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My clients describe my approach as gentle and direct with a dab of humor. I do my best work treating individuals who have experienced interpersonal trauma, people who are navigating their role in complicated families, and those who have been emotionally abused. I tend to find success with people who struggle with depression or low self-esteem, people who work in high-stress or helping professions, and people who do not know where to start. I have experience working with people with Bipolar Disorder, PMDD, learning disabilities, ADHD, anxiety, insomnia, auto-immune conditions, depression, anxiety, panic disorders, autism, & PTSD.
My clients describe my approach as gentle and direct with a dab of humor. I do my best work treating individuals who have experienced interpersonal trauma, people who are navigating their role in complicated families, and those who have been emotionally abused. I tend to find success with people who struggle with depression or low self-esteem, people who work in high-stress or helping professions, and people who do not know where to start. I have experience working with people with Bipolar Disorder, PMDD, learning disabilities, ADHD, anxiety, insomnia, auto-immune conditions, depression, anxiety, panic disorders, autism, & PTSD.
(248) 609-4698 View (248) 609-4698
Photo of Myrna Abdel-Aziz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Naperville, IL
Myrna Abdel-Aziz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60540
I've worked to help individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, bipolar disorder, relationship conflicts, life transitions, cultural, and self-esteem related issues.
Healing can be a daunting process and I believe no individual should have to go through it alone. The healing journey is unique to each person therefore I strive to create a warm, accepting, and collaborative environment through non-judgment and cultural humility. My main goal is to empower clients to recognize their own resilience despite the obstacles they face. Through a person-centered and diversity affirming lens, I work to create a positive dynamic with each client, meanwhile helping you recognize the impacts that your thoughts and behaviors have on your ability to lead a fulfilling life.
I've worked to help individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, bipolar disorder, relationship conflicts, life transitions, cultural, and self-esteem related issues.
Healing can be a daunting process and I believe no individual should have to go through it alone. The healing journey is unique to each person therefore I strive to create a warm, accepting, and collaborative environment through non-judgment and cultural humility. My main goal is to empower clients to recognize their own resilience despite the obstacles they face. Through a person-centered and diversity affirming lens, I work to create a positive dynamic with each client, meanwhile helping you recognize the impacts that your thoughts and behaviors have on your ability to lead a fulfilling life.
(872) 713-9494 View (872) 713-9494
Photo of Conventions Psychiatry & Counseling in Naperville, IL
Conventions Psychiatry & Counseling
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60565
Offering in-office NeuroStar TMS treatments! TMS is a non-drug, non-invasive treatment for Depression. Conventions Psychiatry & Counseling offers mental health treatment for those suffering from Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Addictions, and Personality Disorders. We also treat those struggling with life transitions, grief, or stress. Conventions Psychiatry & Counseling has been a trusted resource for mental health treatment in Naperville, IL and the surrounding area, for 20 years. Our practice has grown into a one-stop treatment facility, treating all ages and offering a variety of services.
Offering in-office NeuroStar TMS treatments! TMS is a non-drug, non-invasive treatment for Depression. Conventions Psychiatry & Counseling offers mental health treatment for those suffering from Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Addictions, and Personality Disorders. We also treat those struggling with life transitions, grief, or stress. Conventions Psychiatry & Counseling has been a trusted resource for mental health treatment in Naperville, IL and the surrounding area, for 20 years. Our practice has grown into a one-stop treatment facility, treating all ages and offering a variety of services.
(331) 246-1252 View (331) 246-1252
Photo of Katie Kemmerling (She Her), Marriage & Family Therapist in Naperville, IL
Katie Kemmerling (She Her)
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540
Just a few common difficulties addressed in therapy are, (but are not limited to) : anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, OCD, self-injury and suicidal ideation, grief/loss, lifespan transitions, parent-child relational problems, and disordered eating habits.
Psychotherapy is about growth, expansion, and evolution, in addition to healing from painful experiences. Seeking support through psychotherapy as a strength. My aim and purpose as your therapist is to cultivate a collaborative therapeutic alliance meant to empower, foster self-compassion, and promote and motivate change. My enthusiastic and relaxed style encourages clients to address concerns with freedom and non judgement.
Just a few common difficulties addressed in therapy are, (but are not limited to) : anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, OCD, self-injury and suicidal ideation, grief/loss, lifespan transitions, parent-child relational problems, and disordered eating habits.
Psychotherapy is about growth, expansion, and evolution, in addition to healing from painful experiences. Seeking support through psychotherapy as a strength. My aim and purpose as your therapist is to cultivate a collaborative therapeutic alliance meant to empower, foster self-compassion, and promote and motivate change. My enthusiastic and relaxed style encourages clients to address concerns with freedom and non judgement.
(630) 608-4555 View (630) 608-4555

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.