Photo of Antonio S. Gomes in Massachusetts
Antonio S. Gomes
MA, MAEd
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446  (Online Only)
While we are fully aware of what is happening at the conscious level, we have no idea what information is stored in the unconscious. For the most part, the source of most of our problems is stored in the unconscious. I help patients verbalize and get in touch with their unconscious, leading to a successful treatment. I Work with adults diagnosed with a psychotic mental disorder; highly functional patients, however, under psychotic medications. I also have experience working with individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia, bipolar, depression, and narcissistic personality disorder.
While we are fully aware of what is happening at the conscious level, we have no idea what information is stored in the unconscious. For the most part, the source of most of our problems is stored in the unconscious. I help patients verbalize and get in touch with their unconscious, leading to a successful treatment. I Work with adults diagnosed with a psychotic mental disorder; highly functional patients, however, under psychotic medications. I also have experience working with individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia, bipolar, depression, and narcissistic personality disorder.
(857) 273-1671 View (857) 273-1671
Photo of Eliza Lila Sorenson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Massachusetts
Eliza Lila Sorenson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lexington, MA 02420
Eliza "Lila" Sorenson is a Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW). She has years of experience working with a variety of clients, including both children and adults. She has experience working with individuals with autism spectrum-related issues, depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, psychosis, personality disorders, trauma, and more.
Eliza "Lila" Sorenson is a Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW). She has years of experience working with a variety of clients, including both children and adults. She has experience working with individuals with autism spectrum-related issues, depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, psychosis, personality disorders, trauma, and more.
(781) 417-3888 View (781) 417-3888
Photo of Glenn S. Davis, Counselor in Massachusetts
Glenn S. Davis
Counselor, MA, LMHC, SAC
Verified Verified
Georgetown, MA 01833
Waitlist for new clients
Client issues include substance abuse, stress, trauma, family conflict, adjustment and transition planning, risk behavior and behavioral addictions, self-esteem, coping skills building, parenting, anxiety, depression, bipolar other mental health disorders.
I have 31 years working experience in behavioral healthcare and K-12 education. I am dually licensed both as a mental health counselor and a school adjustment counselor. I have held positions as a director overseeing adolescent residential treatment programs and a therapeutic day school, agency clinical director, substance abuse specialist, clinical program manager in adult addiction and recovery, school therapist, and various direct care service provider roles in the public school systems and behavioral healthcare space.
Client issues include substance abuse, stress, trauma, family conflict, adjustment and transition planning, risk behavior and behavioral addictions, self-esteem, coping skills building, parenting, anxiety, depression, bipolar other mental health disorders.
I have 31 years working experience in behavioral healthcare and K-12 education. I am dually licensed both as a mental health counselor and a school adjustment counselor. I have held positions as a director overseeing adolescent residential treatment programs and a therapeutic day school, agency clinical director, substance abuse specialist, clinical program manager in adult addiction and recovery, school therapist, and various direct care service provider roles in the public school systems and behavioral healthcare space.
(351) 207-2054 View (351) 207-2054
Beth N Wood
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Truro, MA 02666
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist offering private psychotherapy. I treat individuals (children to older adults), couples and families. I have extensive experience in couple and relationship difficulties; mood disorders including depression and bipolar disorder; trauma and post traumatic stress disorder; anxiety, panic and stress; grief; divorce; parent/child conflicts; work or career-related problems and chronic or terminal illness. My practice is gay affirmative and I treat gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender clients.
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist offering private psychotherapy. I treat individuals (children to older adults), couples and families. I have extensive experience in couple and relationship difficulties; mood disorders including depression and bipolar disorder; trauma and post traumatic stress disorder; anxiety, panic and stress; grief; divorce; parent/child conflicts; work or career-related problems and chronic or terminal illness. My practice is gay affirmative and I treat gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender clients.
(860) 733-0343 View (860) 733-0343
Photo of Chelsea Crowe, Counselor in Massachusetts
Chelsea Crowe
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Provincetown, MA 02657
I have many years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults struggling with mental illness and intellectual disabilities, as well as with their family members. I have worked closely with clients facing a variety of challenges including but not limited to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, addiction, obsessive compulsive disorder, personality disorders, and trauma. I also have experience working with the Prader-Willi population.
I have many years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults struggling with mental illness and intellectual disabilities, as well as with their family members. I have worked closely with clients facing a variety of challenges including but not limited to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, addiction, obsessive compulsive disorder, personality disorders, and trauma. I also have experience working with the Prader-Willi population.
(508) 500-9130 View (508) 500-9130
Photo of Aidza Y Mckenzie, Psychologist in Massachusetts
Aidza Y Mckenzie
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Hadley, MA 01035
As a bilingual licensed clinical psychologist in MA, I diagnose and treat a wide range of mental disorders such as depression, post-traumatic stress, anxiety, personality, co-occurring, and bipolar disorders.
Are you experiencing overwhelming stress, depression, trauma, anxiety, fears, or panic attacks? Are you struggling with sense-of-self or self-worth? Have you been the victim of discrimination or domestic violence and are looking to regain control of your life? Or are you just in need of having a provider that will listen to you in a mindful and non-judgmental way? If you are, call me to discuss effective ways to guide you in the process of overcoming these and other life challenges. I am a caring, gentle, compassionate, and sensitive to cultural, racial, and religious diversity psychologist. I am fluent in English and Spanish.
As a bilingual licensed clinical psychologist in MA, I diagnose and treat a wide range of mental disorders such as depression, post-traumatic stress, anxiety, personality, co-occurring, and bipolar disorders.
Are you experiencing overwhelming stress, depression, trauma, anxiety, fears, or panic attacks? Are you struggling with sense-of-self or self-worth? Have you been the victim of discrimination or domestic violence and are looking to regain control of your life? Or are you just in need of having a provider that will listen to you in a mindful and non-judgmental way? If you are, call me to discuss effective ways to guide you in the process of overcoming these and other life challenges. I am a caring, gentle, compassionate, and sensitive to cultural, racial, and religious diversity psychologist. I am fluent in English and Spanish.
(413) 269-8645 x4 View (413) 269-8645 x4
Photo of Gordon Bailey, Counselor in Massachusetts
Gordon Bailey
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
Chelmsford, MA 01824
My specialties include ADHD, Bipolar, Marriage Counseling, grief and loss, addictions, Childhood trauma.
Specialist in ADHD and/or behavioral issuses in children, teenagers or adults. Male or female. Grief/loss and Couples therapy. Visit my website at gordonbaileylmhc. Explore the reasons the same things keep happening to you or happening in your family. Why your children act the way they do? Why you find yourself being disrespected? Call now for help finding the answers.
My specialties include ADHD, Bipolar, Marriage Counseling, grief and loss, addictions, Childhood trauma.
Specialist in ADHD and/or behavioral issuses in children, teenagers or adults. Male or female. Grief/loss and Couples therapy. Visit my website at gordonbaileylmhc. Explore the reasons the same things keep happening to you or happening in your family. Why your children act the way they do? Why you find yourself being disrespected? Call now for help finding the answers.
(978) 712-4766 View (978) 712-4766
Photo of Morgan Rogliano, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Massachusetts
Morgan Rogliano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hingham, MA 02043  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am able to work with those that suffer from depression, anxiety, bipolar, behavior, self-esteem, motivation, substance abuse, and trauma concerns.
Having difficulty managing day-to-day life, school, work, or relationships? If you are experiencing any of these and desire change we can work together, to find a balance and promote emotional well-being.
I am able to work with those that suffer from depression, anxiety, bipolar, behavior, self-esteem, motivation, substance abuse, and trauma concerns.
Having difficulty managing day-to-day life, school, work, or relationships? If you are experiencing any of these and desire change we can work together, to find a balance and promote emotional well-being.
(508) 691-8914 View (508) 691-8914
Photo of Jennifer Marie Spero, Counselor in Massachusetts
Jennifer Marie Spero
Counselor, LMHC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Revere, MA 02151
My specialty in counseling my patients and education wise is treating PTSD with related anxiety, family problems and care and treatment of severe mental illnesses, such with Schizophrenia, Psychosis, & Bipolar Disorder.
I believe what and how much you put into therapy that you are going to get out of therapy and treatment; Which truly goes with just about anything and everything in life. If you give it all you got, then you are bound to get to where you want to go and ultimately even how you choose to feel. We don't always get a choice in life, yet we are able to change how we think and look at what is in front of us and if it doesn't align with who you are and what you want, then I am here to help you along the way to become the best version of you and assist with you in achieving and feeling your best self including emotions and being as a whole.
My specialty in counseling my patients and education wise is treating PTSD with related anxiety, family problems and care and treatment of severe mental illnesses, such with Schizophrenia, Psychosis, & Bipolar Disorder.
I believe what and how much you put into therapy that you are going to get out of therapy and treatment; Which truly goes with just about anything and everything in life. If you give it all you got, then you are bound to get to where you want to go and ultimately even how you choose to feel. We don't always get a choice in life, yet we are able to change how we think and look at what is in front of us and if it doesn't align with who you are and what you want, then I am here to help you along the way to become the best version of you and assist with you in achieving and feeling your best self including emotions and being as a whole.
(857) 887-3710 View (857) 887-3710
Photo of Caitlin Beth Grossi, Counselor in Massachusetts
Caitlin Beth Grossi
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hampden, MA 01036
My specialties include: Depression, Anxiety, OCD, Bipolar, Eating Disorders, Relationship Issues, Personality Disorders, Anger/Stress Management, ADD/ADHD, Behavioral Disorders, Adjustment Disorders and Post traumatic stress disorder.
Do you need help, for yourself and/or loved ones? I work with children, adolescence and adults in an individual, family, or group setting. I strive to develop a safe therapeutic relationship with my clients. My goal is to develop a treatment plan that is individualized and specific to the areas of your distress. We will focus on strengths as well as implementing positive coping skills and exploration of stressors that hinder success and happiness in one's life. My practice is fully functioning and has transitioned into our “new normal”. Together I will provide the safest place possible through the many measures we have useful to us.
My specialties include: Depression, Anxiety, OCD, Bipolar, Eating Disorders, Relationship Issues, Personality Disorders, Anger/Stress Management, ADD/ADHD, Behavioral Disorders, Adjustment Disorders and Post traumatic stress disorder.
Do you need help, for yourself and/or loved ones? I work with children, adolescence and adults in an individual, family, or group setting. I strive to develop a safe therapeutic relationship with my clients. My goal is to develop a treatment plan that is individualized and specific to the areas of your distress. We will focus on strengths as well as implementing positive coping skills and exploration of stressors that hinder success and happiness in one's life. My practice is fully functioning and has transitioned into our “new normal”. Together I will provide the safest place possible through the many measures we have useful to us.
(413) 931-1935 View (413) 931-1935
Photo of Maureen Walsh, Counselor in Massachusetts
Maureen Walsh
Counselor, MA, PsyaCns, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02118
My experience encompasses treating people with anxiety, depression, addictions (including dual diagnosis), bipolar disorder, PTSD, low self-esteem, co-dependency, somatic issues, gender identity and LGBT issues.
Worry, Anxiety, Trauma, Depression, Grief, Overwhelming Feelings, Relationship Disasters... these are but a few of the issues that may lead someone to consider a professional who can support and assist you with your core concerns. I specialize in treating the human condition from a holistic perspective, always honoring the uniqueness of each individual and respecting their way of "being" in the world. Our aim together will be to explore and find revelations, resolutions,and solutions. Using a psychoanalytic approach, we will bring to light the driving forces behind the repetitive behaviors that tend to keep us attached to repeated outcomes.
My experience encompasses treating people with anxiety, depression, addictions (including dual diagnosis), bipolar disorder, PTSD, low self-esteem, co-dependency, somatic issues, gender identity and LGBT issues.
Worry, Anxiety, Trauma, Depression, Grief, Overwhelming Feelings, Relationship Disasters... these are but a few of the issues that may lead someone to consider a professional who can support and assist you with your core concerns. I specialize in treating the human condition from a holistic perspective, always honoring the uniqueness of each individual and respecting their way of "being" in the world. Our aim together will be to explore and find revelations, resolutions,and solutions. Using a psychoanalytic approach, we will bring to light the driving forces behind the repetitive behaviors that tend to keep us attached to repeated outcomes.
(617) 396-7614 View (617) 396-7614
Photo of Cheryl Pratt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Massachusetts
Cheryl Pratt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, ACSW, CIMHP
Verified Verified
Dedham, MA 02026  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am only accepting private pay clients at this time. I provide counseling for individuals, couples, & families of all ages. I believe that my clients can effectively change their life by being an active participant in the therapy process. I provide an empathetic and nurturing environment for all my clients as well as offer bold advice to foster personal growth. I specialize in substance abuse, depression, bipolar disorder, women's issues, grief and loss, anxiety/panic, trauma, and emotional and behavioral issues of children and adolescents.
I am only accepting private pay clients at this time. I provide counseling for individuals, couples, & families of all ages. I believe that my clients can effectively change their life by being an active participant in the therapy process. I provide an empathetic and nurturing environment for all my clients as well as offer bold advice to foster personal growth. I specialize in substance abuse, depression, bipolar disorder, women's issues, grief and loss, anxiety/panic, trauma, and emotional and behavioral issues of children and adolescents.
(617) 682-9072 View (617) 682-9072
Photo of Robin L Hegvik, Counselor in Massachusetts
Robin L Hegvik
Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Natick, MA 01760
Is your family life ruled by a child who refuses to do what you ask? Is your child shy? Sad? Is your child very sensitive? Does your child find it difficult to speak when at school? Has your child been diagnosed with ADHD/ADD or Bipolar Disorder? If not, do you wonder whether he or she might have it?With my Practical method of Educating and Coaching, I can help bring peace and harmony back to family life. You will have your own Practical Parenting Coach to help you face the ups and downs of your day-to-day.
Is your family life ruled by a child who refuses to do what you ask? Is your child shy? Sad? Is your child very sensitive? Does your child find it difficult to speak when at school? Has your child been diagnosed with ADHD/ADD or Bipolar Disorder? If not, do you wonder whether he or she might have it?With my Practical method of Educating and Coaching, I can help bring peace and harmony back to family life. You will have your own Practical Parenting Coach to help you face the ups and downs of your day-to-day.
(302) 956-9926 View (302) 956-9926
Photo of Fitzgerald Counseling Group, Counselor in Massachusetts
Fitzgerald Counseling Group
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fall River, MA 02723
Fitzgerald Counseling Group has both male and female clinicians to work with children, adults, and couples with availability days, evenings, and weekends. Our clinicians have experience and expertise in working with individuals and families with concerns around anxiety, depression, Bipolar Disorder, grief, substance use, gender dysphoria, ADHD, ODD, PTSD and other trauma-related concerns. We believe in compassionate, research-based care, and treat our clients with the utmost respect and courtesy. Please contact us directly if you would like to learn more about us, or are interested in meeting with one of our counselors.
Fitzgerald Counseling Group has both male and female clinicians to work with children, adults, and couples with availability days, evenings, and weekends. Our clinicians have experience and expertise in working with individuals and families with concerns around anxiety, depression, Bipolar Disorder, grief, substance use, gender dysphoria, ADHD, ODD, PTSD and other trauma-related concerns. We believe in compassionate, research-based care, and treat our clients with the utmost respect and courtesy. Please contact us directly if you would like to learn more about us, or are interested in meeting with one of our counselors.
(978) 615-3857 View (978) 615-3857
Photo of Kelley Daron, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Massachusetts
Kelley Daron, LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Millis, MA 02054
O P E N times available for BCBS & Self-Pay clients. Experienced treating children and adults with Anxiety, Bipolar, Depression, Trauma, and relationship or life challenges. I invite you to call me and share the hopes you have for therapy, ask questions, and see if you would like to start working together. Maybe you are looking for help finding more balanced moods, adjusting to a difficult change in your life, dealing with the difficulties from a traumatic experience or rebuilding a professional or personal relationship. Seeking help is a sign of your resilience and strength. .
O P E N times available for BCBS & Self-Pay clients. Experienced treating children and adults with Anxiety, Bipolar, Depression, Trauma, and relationship or life challenges. I invite you to call me and share the hopes you have for therapy, ask questions, and see if you would like to start working together. Maybe you are looking for help finding more balanced moods, adjusting to a difficult change in your life, dealing with the difficulties from a traumatic experience or rebuilding a professional or personal relationship. Seeking help is a sign of your resilience and strength. .
(774) 217-7395 View (774) 217-7395
Photo of Allaphia Sackeena Richards, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Massachusetts
Allaphia Sackeena Richards
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, LMHC, LSW, SAC, RBT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Randolph, MA 02368
My treatment areas of specialty are; ADHD, Autism- child behavioral management, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar and Depression.
Allaphia S. Richards M.Ed, LMHC, LSW, ABA-RBT, SAC. Ms. Allaphia Richards is an Elected Official of Massachusetts. She currently serves as President of Randolph Public School Committee - Policy Council. Ms. Richards is the founder of Paradise Healing Social Services. She is also a Professor of Humanities, Child Welfare License Social Worker, License Mental Health Clinician, Applied Behavior Analysis Technician, School Adjustment Counselor, Notary Commission and Paralegal. Experienced in serving clients who struggle with navigating systems, challenges with mental health, parenting, and establishing healthy relationships.
My treatment areas of specialty are; ADHD, Autism- child behavioral management, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar and Depression.
Allaphia S. Richards M.Ed, LMHC, LSW, ABA-RBT, SAC. Ms. Allaphia Richards is an Elected Official of Massachusetts. She currently serves as President of Randolph Public School Committee - Policy Council. Ms. Richards is the founder of Paradise Healing Social Services. She is also a Professor of Humanities, Child Welfare License Social Worker, License Mental Health Clinician, Applied Behavior Analysis Technician, School Adjustment Counselor, Notary Commission and Paralegal. Experienced in serving clients who struggle with navigating systems, challenges with mental health, parenting, and establishing healthy relationships.
(781) 527-4165 View (781) 527-4165
Photo of Perseverance Clinical Services, LLC , Counselor in Massachusetts
Perseverance Clinical Services, LLC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Worcester, MA 01605
" I am a dedicated and skilled Christian counselor with experience providing care for children, teenagers, and adults. I have experience treating individuals diagnosed with anxiety, trauma-related issues, depression, borderline personality, attention deficit disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, bipolar disorder, and adjustment disorders. I have experience providing individual and couples therapy. I recognize that my clients are able to make progress in treatment when they are open, ready, and able to commit to making changes in their lives. I am trained, experienced, and prepared to help my clients function better physically, emotionally, and spiritually."
" I am a dedicated and skilled Christian counselor with experience providing care for children, teenagers, and adults. I have experience treating individuals diagnosed with anxiety, trauma-related issues, depression, borderline personality, attention deficit disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, bipolar disorder, and adjustment disorders. I have experience providing individual and couples therapy. I recognize that my clients are able to make progress in treatment when they are open, ready, and able to commit to making changes in their lives. I am trained, experienced, and prepared to help my clients function better physically, emotionally, and spiritually."
(508) 507-8461 View (508) 507-8461
Photo of Fitzgerald Counseling Group, Counselor in Massachusetts
Fitzgerald Counseling Group
Counselor, LMHC, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fall River, MA 02723
Fitzgerald Counseling Group has both male and female clinicians to work with children, adults, and couples with availability days, evenings, and weekends. Our clinicians have experience and expertise in working with individuals and families with concerns around anxiety, depression, Bipolar Disorder, grief, substance use, gender dysphoria, ADHD, ODD, PTSD and other trauma-related concerns. We believe in compassionate, research-based care, and treat our clients with the utmost respect and courtesy. Please contact us directly if you would like to learn more about us, or are interested in meeting with one of our counselors.
Fitzgerald Counseling Group has both male and female clinicians to work with children, adults, and couples with availability days, evenings, and weekends. Our clinicians have experience and expertise in working with individuals and families with concerns around anxiety, depression, Bipolar Disorder, grief, substance use, gender dysphoria, ADHD, ODD, PTSD and other trauma-related concerns. We believe in compassionate, research-based care, and treat our clients with the utmost respect and courtesy. Please contact us directly if you would like to learn more about us, or are interested in meeting with one of our counselors.
(508) 689-4831 View (508) 689-4831
Photo of Susan Devost, LMHC, Counselor in Massachusetts
Susan Devost, LMHC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Andover, MA 01810
I treat depression, anxiety, ODD, conduct disorders, trauma, adjustment disorders, anger management, bipolar disorder, relationship issues, addictive behaviors, parenting support and conflict resolution.
I am a strength based therapist who uses multiple techniques in order to best serve each client's individual needs. My hope is to help clients by empowering them to become in charge of their own lives and growth. I am insightful, compassionate and straight forward. I believe you are the expert on your life and I guide you to create positive changes in your life.
I treat depression, anxiety, ODD, conduct disorders, trauma, adjustment disorders, anger management, bipolar disorder, relationship issues, addictive behaviors, parenting support and conflict resolution.
I am a strength based therapist who uses multiple techniques in order to best serve each client's individual needs. My hope is to help clients by empowering them to become in charge of their own lives and growth. I am insightful, compassionate and straight forward. I believe you are the expert on your life and I guide you to create positive changes in your life.
(978) 296-7758 View (978) 296-7758
Photo of Patricia m Brady, Counselor in Massachusetts
Patricia m Brady
Counselor, MS, LMFT, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Medford, MA 02155
I have worked as a clinician in mental health for over 25 years. I have dedicated myself to child welfare and have a specialty in the treatment of trauma, anxiety, adoption, attachment, Bipolar and addictions. I take a supportive approach to my client work so they are able to arrive at healthy solutions. I also have experience in family therapy taking a family systems approach to the work. My practice is located in the center of Medford and is easily accessible by public transportation. The staff in the office are all welcoming and there is a play space for children.
I have worked as a clinician in mental health for over 25 years. I have dedicated myself to child welfare and have a specialty in the treatment of trauma, anxiety, adoption, attachment, Bipolar and addictions. I take a supportive approach to my client work so they are able to arrive at healthy solutions. I also have experience in family therapy taking a family systems approach to the work. My practice is located in the center of Medford and is easily accessible by public transportation. The staff in the office are all welcoming and there is a play space for children.
(781) 676-3169 View (781) 676-3169

See more therapy options for Massachusetts

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.