Photo of Cherry Hill Counseling in Wauconda, IL
Cherry Hill Counseling
Verified Verified
Wauconda, IL 60084
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 Kathleen Kenney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wauconda, IL
Kathleen Kenney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Wauconda, IL 60084
Many people struggle with anxiety and depression as they cope with life's uncertainties. We are all redefining "normal." My training in CBT, EMDR, Strengths Centered, and Person Centered Therapy with men, women, children, elders, and caregivers is well rounded. People are dealing with trauma, abuse, employment issues, grief, mental illness, addiction, co-dependency, physical illness, parenting, divorce, retirement, and loss of identity. Everyone wants to know they have a "purpose." I specialize in helping clients with their journey. Most people want to feel safe, loved, understood, and appreciated. I can help with that.
Many people struggle with anxiety and depression as they cope with life's uncertainties. We are all redefining "normal." My training in CBT, EMDR, Strengths Centered, and Person Centered Therapy with men, women, children, elders, and caregivers is well rounded. People are dealing with trauma, abuse, employment issues, grief, mental illness, addiction, co-dependency, physical illness, parenting, divorce, retirement, and loss of identity. Everyone wants to know they have a "purpose." I specialize in helping clients with their journey. Most people want to feel safe, loved, understood, and appreciated. I can help with that.
(847) 713-1261 View (847) 713-1261
Photo of Andrea Perez, Counselor in Wauconda, IL
Andrea Perez
Counselor, MA, ATR, LCPC
Verified Verified
Wauconda, IL 60084
Raise your hand if you lie in bed at night, replaying scenarios in your head, and wishing you had handled them differently. Maybe you’re going through something that no one else understands. Maybe it feels like the walls are closing in on you. At your pace, I will help you process emotions and find clarity and meaning through self-expression. It would be awesome to increase happiness, manage emotions, reduce stress, and heal emotional pain. Create your inner peace by learning techniques that will help you be more present in your daily life.
Raise your hand if you lie in bed at night, replaying scenarios in your head, and wishing you had handled them differently. Maybe you’re going through something that no one else understands. Maybe it feels like the walls are closing in on you. At your pace, I will help you process emotions and find clarity and meaning through self-expression. It would be awesome to increase happiness, manage emotions, reduce stress, and heal emotional pain. Create your inner peace by learning techniques that will help you be more present in your daily life.
(847) 320-9139 View (847) 320-9139
Photo of Restorative Healing Counseling & Psychotherapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wauconda, IL
Restorative Healing Counseling & Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Wauconda, IL 60084
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

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Ryan T Porter, Counselor in Wauconda, IL
Ryan T Porter
Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Libertyville, IL 60048
I am an LCPC (Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor) therapist who has been serving clients in Lake County for over 20 years. I have worked with families, children, DCFS and foster care, adolescents, couples and adults with varying diagnoses and issues (i.e. major depression, bipolar disorder, self-mutilation, ADHD, trauma/post-traumatic stress disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, personality disorders, and chemical abuse and dependency).
I am an LCPC (Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor) therapist who has been serving clients in Lake County for over 20 years. I have worked with families, children, DCFS and foster care, adolescents, couples and adults with varying diagnoses and issues (i.e. major depression, bipolar disorder, self-mutilation, ADHD, trauma/post-traumatic stress disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, personality disorders, and chemical abuse and dependency).
(847) 892-1398 View (847) 892-1398
Photo of Innovative Counseling Partners PLLC, Counselor in Wauconda, IL
Innovative Counseling Partners PLLC
Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Libertyville, IL 60048
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 Julianna Evischi, Licensed Social Worker in Wauconda, IL
Julianna Evischi
Licensed Social Worker, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
McHenry, IL 60051
In addition, I treat anxiety, depression, BiPolar Disorder, disordered eating, PTSD/trauma, substance use disorders, co-dependency, life adjustments/life transitions, chronic stress related issues and grief.
Hi, I'm Julianna, and I work with both teens and adults! I believe that everyone has a unique story and I acknowledge that beginning therapy can feel intimidating and even scary. I approach therapy with a collaborative mindset, free of judgement, and built on mutual respect and trust. I value a therapeutic environment where one is free to be their authentic self. I value a focus on solutions, offering guidance and unconditional support, while simultaneously acknowledging that you are the expert of your own life.
In addition, I treat anxiety, depression, BiPolar Disorder, disordered eating, PTSD/trauma, substance use disorders, co-dependency, life adjustments/life transitions, chronic stress related issues and grief.
Hi, I'm Julianna, and I work with both teens and adults! I believe that everyone has a unique story and I acknowledge that beginning therapy can feel intimidating and even scary. I approach therapy with a collaborative mindset, free of judgement, and built on mutual respect and trust. I value a therapeutic environment where one is free to be their authentic self. I value a focus on solutions, offering guidance and unconditional support, while simultaneously acknowledging that you are the expert of your own life.
(815) 396-6425 View (815) 396-6425
Photo of Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC, Counselor in Wauconda, IL
Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
McHenry, IL 60050
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 Helenn McManaman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wauconda, IL
Helenn McManaman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, PsyD
Not Verified Not Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60012
My areas of specialization include: depression, anxiety, ADHD/ADD, bipolar disorder, oppositional/defiant disorder, anger management, domestic violence, and victims of sexual abuse.
Anything can happen in life! Sometimes difficult things happen that are outside of our control. My focus is to help clients overcome life challenges by helping them identify their strengths and help them overcome stressful life events. I support clients by increasing their level of self-awareness as they identify their strengths and resources. I also support clients by helping them gain insight into self-defeating patterns and work toward making themselves feel confident, calm, and powerful. By providing a warm and safe environment, I help my clients move forward in life and have a more balanced, fulfilled life.
My areas of specialization include: depression, anxiety, ADHD/ADD, bipolar disorder, oppositional/defiant disorder, anger management, domestic violence, and victims of sexual abuse.
Anything can happen in life! Sometimes difficult things happen that are outside of our control. My focus is to help clients overcome life challenges by helping them identify their strengths and help them overcome stressful life events. I support clients by increasing their level of self-awareness as they identify their strengths and resources. I also support clients by helping them gain insight into self-defeating patterns and work toward making themselves feel confident, calm, and powerful. By providing a warm and safe environment, I help my clients move forward in life and have a more balanced, fulfilled life.
(815) 205-0194 View (815) 205-0194
Photo of Mercedes Conus, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wauconda, 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 August Stieber LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wauconda, IL
August Stieber LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAADC, CEAP
Verified Verified
Libertyville, IL 60048
Gus Stieber LCSW, CAADC received his Masters in Social Work from Aurora University. Gus has a background working in special populations and 25 years of experience working in the addictions field with adolescents, adults and families. Gus's broad base of experience recognizes the whole person in a solution-focused approach that is realistic and achievable. He utilizes insight-oriented, solution focused and family-oriented approaches in his counseling approach. Gus devotes himself to helping adults, children and adolescents (6-18 years), couples and families.
Gus Stieber LCSW, CAADC received his Masters in Social Work from Aurora University. Gus has a background working in special populations and 25 years of experience working in the addictions field with adolescents, adults and families. Gus's broad base of experience recognizes the whole person in a solution-focused approach that is realistic and achievable. He utilizes insight-oriented, solution focused and family-oriented approaches in his counseling approach. Gus devotes himself to helping adults, children and adolescents (6-18 years), couples and families.
(847) 915-4592 View (847) 915-4592
Photo of Jaimee L McMullen, Counselor in Wauconda, IL
Jaimee L McMullen
Counselor, LCPC, ATR-BC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
I specialize in clinical counseling and art therapy. I utilize my skills to increase clients' installation of hope, trust, and faith within themselves. These qualities are imperative to gain self-esteem, improve insight, and strengthen stability in our lives. "I strongly believe that the healing process begins when a therapeutic relationship is established and that the power of art is an important piece of this process." My ideal clients are ones who are willing to work hard, play hard, have fun and enjoy life with the assistance of myself and, the therapeutic process.
I specialize in clinical counseling and art therapy. I utilize my skills to increase clients' installation of hope, trust, and faith within themselves. These qualities are imperative to gain self-esteem, improve insight, and strengthen stability in our lives. "I strongly believe that the healing process begins when a therapeutic relationship is established and that the power of art is an important piece of this process." My ideal clients are ones who are willing to work hard, play hard, have fun and enjoy life with the assistance of myself and, the therapeutic process.
(847) 607-6774 View (847) 607-6774
Photo of Amy Shane, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wauconda, 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 Shalini Varma M. D. Psychiatry in Wauconda, IL
Shalini Varma M. D. Psychiatry
MD, BD Cert, NBPAS, ABPN
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
ACCEPTING PEOPLE OF ALL AGES WITHIN ONE WEEK! Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, School and Work Accommodations, Difficulty sleeping, Addictions & Medication. Evening appointments are available. Care provided by me, a Physician, a Double Board Certified MD Psychiatrist may be a more effective approach for you. I am structured and organized with treatment. I also provide neuropsychological and psychological TESTING. I am available for urgent needs. Work together to decrease struggling. US born and educated at Rutgers Medical School & completed Psychiatry Residency at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital.
ACCEPTING PEOPLE OF ALL AGES WITHIN ONE WEEK! Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, School and Work Accommodations, Difficulty sleeping, Addictions & Medication. Evening appointments are available. Care provided by me, a Physician, a Double Board Certified MD Psychiatrist may be a more effective approach for you. I am structured and organized with treatment. I also provide neuropsychological and psychological TESTING. I am available for urgent needs. Work together to decrease struggling. US born and educated at Rutgers Medical School & completed Psychiatry Residency at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital.
(847) 393-4392 View (847) 393-4392
Photo of Jinnie Kwon Cristerna, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wauconda, IL
Jinnie Kwon Cristerna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHT, RhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Hoffman Estates, IL 60010
Have you gone as far as you can in traditional psychotherapy? Are you looking to go deeper sooner? Do you want sustainable results within one to three sessions? Are you serious and committed to treatment? Then consider undergoing psychological surgery in addition to psychotherapy. For 28 years I have helped patients release fear, anger, shame, guilt, depression, or anxiety so they can experience sustaining self-love, joy, compassion, forgiveness, and discernment. If you have lost your way and want to remember who you really are, I am here to accompany you on your journey to heal at the deepest level possible.
Have you gone as far as you can in traditional psychotherapy? Are you looking to go deeper sooner? Do you want sustainable results within one to three sessions? Are you serious and committed to treatment? Then consider undergoing psychological surgery in addition to psychotherapy. For 28 years I have helped patients release fear, anger, shame, guilt, depression, or anxiety so they can experience sustaining self-love, joy, compassion, forgiveness, and discernment. If you have lost your way and want to remember who you really are, I am here to accompany you on your journey to heal at the deepest level possible.
(312) 626-3322 View (312) 626-3322
Photo of Jan Gosselin, Counselor in Wauconda, IL
Jan Gosselin
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Libertyville, IL 60048
I am effective in helping adults young and old who struggle with anxiety, depression and low self-worth, and self-defeating patterns in their lives. Sometimes we feel too overwhelmed, ashamed, or discouraged to deal with these parts of ourselves, and need the help of an attuned listener to understand and work through our problems. The process of talking about your thoughts, feelings, and experiences within a trusting therapeutic relationship helps relieve emotional distress and increases your capacity to manage difficult feelings.
I am effective in helping adults young and old who struggle with anxiety, depression and low self-worth, and self-defeating patterns in their lives. Sometimes we feel too overwhelmed, ashamed, or discouraged to deal with these parts of ourselves, and need the help of an attuned listener to understand and work through our problems. The process of talking about your thoughts, feelings, and experiences within a trusting therapeutic relationship helps relieve emotional distress and increases your capacity to manage difficult feelings.
(847) 750-4421 View (847) 750-4421
Photo of Nicki Lis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wauconda, IL
Nicki Lis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
Relationships are complicated. Some relationships take so much energy that you start to wonder if they're even worth the effort. This may apply to a spouse, significant other, or even a parent. A relationship that once felt love, now feels painful and exhausting. Maybe you're finding yourself full of anxiety or feelings of depression, and it all seems to lead back to this one person. . . Who you love. It's time to get therapy for yourself, so you can get a handle on these feelings, figure out what to do next, and start healing.
Relationships are complicated. Some relationships take so much energy that you start to wonder if they're even worth the effort. This may apply to a spouse, significant other, or even a parent. A relationship that once felt love, now feels painful and exhausting. Maybe you're finding yourself full of anxiety or feelings of depression, and it all seems to lead back to this one person. . . Who you love. It's time to get therapy for yourself, so you can get a handle on these feelings, figure out what to do next, and start healing.
(847) 719-6539 View (847) 719-6539
Photo of Sharice Ellenwood, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Wauconda, IL
Sharice Ellenwood
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010  (Online Only)
To me, there is no ideal client. I am comfortable working with clients that have a wide variety of issues, needs, and goals. I typically work with clients between the ages 13-45 yrs old that have come in with all unique struggles. I would prefer to work with clients that are open minded and willing to build a positive therapeutic relationship in order to allow both of us to guide each other towards your goals.
To me, there is no ideal client. I am comfortable working with clients that have a wide variety of issues, needs, and goals. I typically work with clients between the ages 13-45 yrs old that have come in with all unique struggles. I would prefer to work with clients that are open minded and willing to build a positive therapeutic relationship in order to allow both of us to guide each other towards your goals.
(847) 613-1956 x11 View (847) 613-1956 x11
Photo of Cindy McKnight, Counselor in Wauconda, IL
Cindy McKnight
Counselor, MS, LCPC, CFRC, CCTP, EMDR
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Libertyville, IL 60048
Hello and thank you for taking the time to read my biography. I received my MS in Human Services/Community Counseling. I have over 20 years experience in MH and have been successful in working with individuals, couples and families. I have a particular clinical area of strength working with First Responders. I am also trained in EMDR level I & II, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Sex Therapy. I can also provide short-term counseling. My clinical approach is evidence based treatment as I am trained to work with various populations. We offer sessions in Libertyville, Gurnee and via telehealth.
Hello and thank you for taking the time to read my biography. I received my MS in Human Services/Community Counseling. I have over 20 years experience in MH and have been successful in working with individuals, couples and families. I have a particular clinical area of strength working with First Responders. I am also trained in EMDR level I & II, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Sex Therapy. I can also provide short-term counseling. My clinical approach is evidence based treatment as I am trained to work with various populations. We offer sessions in Libertyville, Gurnee and via telehealth.
(847) 527-8511 View (847) 527-8511
Photo of Donna Oldenburg, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Wauconda, IL
Donna Oldenburg
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
Libertyville, IL 60048
Are you living the life you envisioned? Has grief, a difficult relationship, chronic illness, or life transition left you feeling anxious or depressed and unable to move forward with your life? I can help. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, and National Certified Counselor, who strives to help adults 18 years and older cultivate the self-awareness and coping skills necessary to create the positive changes they seek in their life.
Are you living the life you envisioned? Has grief, a difficult relationship, chronic illness, or life transition left you feeling anxious or depressed and unable to move forward with your life? I can help. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, and National Certified Counselor, who strives to help adults 18 years and older cultivate the self-awareness and coping skills necessary to create the positive changes they seek in their life.
(847) 905-9846 View (847) 905-9846

See more therapy options for Wauconda

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.