Photo of John D Gartner, Psychologist in Baltimore, MD
John D Gartner
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21211
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS REMOTELY AND IN PERSON: I've practiced psychotherapy for over 40 years, and during that time also taught psychiatric residents at Johns Hopkins Medical School. My areas of specialization are bipolar type 2 and borderline personality disorder. I've also worked with many entrepreneurs since the publication of my book, The Hypomanic Edge: The Link Between (a Little) Craziness and (a Lot of ) Success in America.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS REMOTELY AND IN PERSON: I've practiced psychotherapy for over 40 years, and during that time also taught psychiatric residents at Johns Hopkins Medical School. My areas of specialization are bipolar type 2 and borderline personality disorder. I've also worked with many entrepreneurs since the publication of my book, The Hypomanic Edge: The Link Between (a Little) Craziness and (a Lot of ) Success in America.
(410) 305-9221 View (410) 305-9221
Photo of Judith Geller LCSW-C Psychotherapy Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Judith Geller LCSW-C Psychotherapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MA
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21218  (Online Only)
I am here to help you connect with your inner strengths and to know your own deepest wisdom. We all have an incredible capacity to heal and to meet whatever challenges show up in our lives. I bring deep compassion and skills from two and a half decades of helping clients with everything from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, acute trauma/PTSD, past abuse, dissociation, and OCD to marital/relationship problems, family issues, failure-to-launch, and intimacy issues. Together, we will partner to help you move forward into the life you are meant to be living.
I am here to help you connect with your inner strengths and to know your own deepest wisdom. We all have an incredible capacity to heal and to meet whatever challenges show up in our lives. I bring deep compassion and skills from two and a half decades of helping clients with everything from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, acute trauma/PTSD, past abuse, dissociation, and OCD to marital/relationship problems, family issues, failure-to-launch, and intimacy issues. Together, we will partner to help you move forward into the life you are meant to be living.
(443) 341-0244 View (443) 341-0244
Photo of Living Deliberately LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Living Deliberately LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21211
Living Deliberately, LLC is dedicated to client-focused and client-forward treatment. We have medication management in addition to multiple skilled practitioners well-versed in the treatment of ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Mood disorders, Anxiety disorders, and associated traumatic events for children / teens / adults. We look forward to working with you on your difficulties to process and break down the barriers that are stopping you from achieving contentment in living. Now offering Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) treatment for medicationaly resistant depression, anxiety and OCD.
Living Deliberately, LLC is dedicated to client-focused and client-forward treatment. We have medication management in addition to multiple skilled practitioners well-versed in the treatment of ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Mood disorders, Anxiety disorders, and associated traumatic events for children / teens / adults. We look forward to working with you on your difficulties to process and break down the barriers that are stopping you from achieving contentment in living. Now offering Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) treatment for medicationaly resistant depression, anxiety and OCD.
(410) 401-1098 View (410) 401-1098
Photo of Kim Witkowski, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Baltimore, MD
Kim Witkowski
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PhD, MA, MEd, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21201  (Online Only)
Dr. Kim Witkowski, Ph.D. is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor providing services for clients in Maryland ,South Carolina and New Jersey. With 30 years of clinical experience. Dr. Witkowski is working with clients to resolve; Trauma, Anxiety and Depression. Additionally specialties include Bipolar Disorders, PTSD, Perfectionism ,OCD and Work-Life Balance. Relationship counseling is offered to include: Effective Communication for Marriage and long- term partnerships, ending codependency and ACOA issues, trauma bonding , learning the characteristics of healthy relationships and attachment styles.
Dr. Kim Witkowski, Ph.D. is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor providing services for clients in Maryland ,South Carolina and New Jersey. With 30 years of clinical experience. Dr. Witkowski is working with clients to resolve; Trauma, Anxiety and Depression. Additionally specialties include Bipolar Disorders, PTSD, Perfectionism ,OCD and Work-Life Balance. Relationship counseling is offered to include: Effective Communication for Marriage and long- term partnerships, ending codependency and ACOA issues, trauma bonding , learning the characteristics of healthy relationships and attachment styles.
(410) 346-5978 x161 View (410) 346-5978 x161
Photo of Kris T Gebhard, Psychologist in Baltimore, MD
Kris T Gebhard
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21211
My specialties include gender-affirming care, supporting individuals dealing with traumatic stress (including cultural trauma), PTSD, personality disorders, bipolar disorder, gender dysphoria, depression, and anxiety.
I aim to garden healing so that my clients can more vibrantly and intentionally shape change as their truest selves. I'm genderqueer, transmasculine, queer, and enjoy working with clients across the gender and sexuality spectrum, including trans, genderqueer, non-binary, intersex, LGB and pansexual-identified individuals, and individuals in diverse relationship structures including polyamory and ethical non-monogamy. I'm kink/BDSM-affirming, sex and body-positive. I've worked w/artists, professionals, organizers/activists, students, and disabled individuals and couples. I am trained in Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples.
My specialties include gender-affirming care, supporting individuals dealing with traumatic stress (including cultural trauma), PTSD, personality disorders, bipolar disorder, gender dysphoria, depression, and anxiety.
I aim to garden healing so that my clients can more vibrantly and intentionally shape change as their truest selves. I'm genderqueer, transmasculine, queer, and enjoy working with clients across the gender and sexuality spectrum, including trans, genderqueer, non-binary, intersex, LGB and pansexual-identified individuals, and individuals in diverse relationship structures including polyamory and ethical non-monogamy. I'm kink/BDSM-affirming, sex and body-positive. I've worked w/artists, professionals, organizers/activists, students, and disabled individuals and couples. I am trained in Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples.
(240) 443-3726 View (240) 443-3726
Photo of Bright Future Community Health Care Services, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Baltimore, MD
Bright Future Community Health Care Services
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CAC-AD, ACS
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21212  (Online Only)
I present myself fully, and professionally in helping willing clients develop the right coping skills to better handle successfully, challenging life, behavioral and mental issues like anger management, anxiety related disorders, trauma related disorders, bipolar related disorders, depression, suicidal thoughts, aging, effective parenting, change of life, grieving, self-esteem, family and couples problems, stress, as well as drug and alcohol use disorders. I provide psychotherapy, assessment, diagnosis, substance abuse treatment, and crisis management.
I present myself fully, and professionally in helping willing clients develop the right coping skills to better handle successfully, challenging life, behavioral and mental issues like anger management, anxiety related disorders, trauma related disorders, bipolar related disorders, depression, suicidal thoughts, aging, effective parenting, change of life, grieving, self-esteem, family and couples problems, stress, as well as drug and alcohol use disorders. I provide psychotherapy, assessment, diagnosis, substance abuse treatment, and crisis management.
(443) 832-4526 View (443) 832-4526
Photo of Family Intervention Partners, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Baltimore, MD
Family Intervention Partners
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MD, LCPC, PMHNP, LCSW-C, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21213
Our practice consists of a team of licensed Drs, therapists, and social workers working together to provide the best mental healthcare services to our patients. We provide comprehensive Child, Adolescent and Adult psychiatric treatment, and psychotherapy in a non-judgmental, patient-centered environment. Our practitioners provide Assessments, Psychiatric Evaluation, Medication Management, and Psychotherapy for all ages. We treat Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorders, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Childhood Trauma, Emotional Disorders, and Behavior Problems. WE ARE ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS.
Our practice consists of a team of licensed Drs, therapists, and social workers working together to provide the best mental healthcare services to our patients. We provide comprehensive Child, Adolescent and Adult psychiatric treatment, and psychotherapy in a non-judgmental, patient-centered environment. Our practitioners provide Assessments, Psychiatric Evaluation, Medication Management, and Psychotherapy for all ages. We treat Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorders, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Childhood Trauma, Emotional Disorders, and Behavior Problems. WE ARE ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS.
(410) 291-1753 View (410) 291-1753
Photo of Allison Ferdinand Lewis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Allison Ferdinand Lewis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWC
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21201
My experience consists of trauma work, childhood disorders and mood disorders such as anxiety, depression and bipolar.
From the first time we meet and throughout our journey, I will invest my full attention into listening to your unique story. This is so important because you are the expert on you. We all have the power to heal ourselves from within. Sometimes all that's needed is a little redirection and a different perspective. Other times it is necessary to learn new coping skills and approaches to difficult situations.
My experience consists of trauma work, childhood disorders and mood disorders such as anxiety, depression and bipolar.
From the first time we meet and throughout our journey, I will invest my full attention into listening to your unique story. This is so important because you are the expert on you. We all have the power to heal ourselves from within. Sometimes all that's needed is a little redirection and a different perspective. Other times it is necessary to learn new coping skills and approaches to difficult situations.
(410) 777-8551 View (410) 777-8551
Photo of Nicole Twaalfhoven, Counselor in Baltimore, MD
Nicole Twaalfhoven
Counselor, LCPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21210  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Thank you for your interest in my profile. I work with clients who need support, a clearer understanding of themselves and their environment, and are ready for change. Clients struggling with depression, anxiety, self-esteem, PTSD, grief, schizophrenia, bipolar, and personality disorders, as well as relationships, career support, aging, and other daily life issues are great candidates for therapy with me. I see individual clients of any age (however under the age of 16, parent/caregiver collaboration is required), families, and couples. I offer a kind, supportive approach, with plenty structure and self-empowerment.
Thank you for your interest in my profile. I work with clients who need support, a clearer understanding of themselves and their environment, and are ready for change. Clients struggling with depression, anxiety, self-esteem, PTSD, grief, schizophrenia, bipolar, and personality disorders, as well as relationships, career support, aging, and other daily life issues are great candidates for therapy with me. I see individual clients of any age (however under the age of 16, parent/caregiver collaboration is required), families, and couples. I offer a kind, supportive approach, with plenty structure and self-empowerment.
(240) 201-2371 View (240) 201-2371
Photo of Healing Minds and Hearts Services, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Healing Minds and Hearts Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, LCSW
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21251  (Online Only)
We work with individuals living with Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Relationship, Schizophrenia/Schizoaffective Disorders, Self-Esteem, Life, and Parenting/Teen issues and other issues.
YOUR HEALING BEGINS NOW! YOU DON'T HAVE TO SUFFER ALONE! We are here to support you. We believe in the ideals of building mental & emotional well-belling through self-empowerment of the mind, body, & spirit providing a relatable approach with realistic insight. We utilize a compassionate & innovative care approach in a non-judgmental environment. We are dedicated and enjoy providing mental health treatment to those that come for support and resolve in dealing with life issues. We are focused on providing services with the highest levels of customer satisfaction & we will do all we can to meet your expectations.
We work with individuals living with Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Relationship, Schizophrenia/Schizoaffective Disorders, Self-Esteem, Life, and Parenting/Teen issues and other issues.
YOUR HEALING BEGINS NOW! YOU DON'T HAVE TO SUFFER ALONE! We are here to support you. We believe in the ideals of building mental & emotional well-belling through self-empowerment of the mind, body, & spirit providing a relatable approach with realistic insight. We utilize a compassionate & innovative care approach in a non-judgmental environment. We are dedicated and enjoy providing mental health treatment to those that come for support and resolve in dealing with life issues. We are focused on providing services with the highest levels of customer satisfaction & we will do all we can to meet your expectations.
(301) 965-1925 View (301) 965-1925
Photo of Shinelle Oglesby, Counselor in Baltimore, MD
Shinelle Oglesby
Counselor, MS, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21207  (Online Only)
We specialize in treating clients who suffer with Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety, and PTSD.
I am the CEO and Clinical Director of Urban Trauma Counseling Center. We provide mental health and substance abuse counseling for Adults , and we are dedicated to helping people heal from traumatic events and live their best life. I see my role as a compassionate partner helping the client work toward healing and growth from the inside out. We work especially well with those who have experienced traumatic experiences, including traumatic grief; and helping them to improve their feelings of self-worth, self-esteem and self-acceptance.
We specialize in treating clients who suffer with Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety, and PTSD.
I am the CEO and Clinical Director of Urban Trauma Counseling Center. We provide mental health and substance abuse counseling for Adults , and we are dedicated to helping people heal from traumatic events and live their best life. I see my role as a compassionate partner helping the client work toward healing and growth from the inside out. We work especially well with those who have experienced traumatic experiences, including traumatic grief; and helping them to improve their feelings of self-worth, self-esteem and self-acceptance.
(667) 206-3567 View (667) 206-3567
Photo of Access Health Services in Baltimore, MD
Access Health Services
PMHNP
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21205
Elad is an ANCC board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She graduated with Masters as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner from Ohio University. Before pursuing her master's in Nursing, Elad worked as a Registered Nurse for over seven years in different healthcare departments, including psychiatric units as a way to broaden her knowledge and ability to offer care to her patients in a holistic manner. In that light, she developed more compassion and empathy for her patients suffering from mental health problems as she understood their concerns and how they were perceived by friends, family, and society.
Elad is an ANCC board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She graduated with Masters as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner from Ohio University. Before pursuing her master's in Nursing, Elad worked as a Registered Nurse for over seven years in different healthcare departments, including psychiatric units as a way to broaden her knowledge and ability to offer care to her patients in a holistic manner. In that light, she developed more compassion and empathy for her patients suffering from mental health problems as she understood their concerns and how they were perceived by friends, family, and society.
(410) 946-1641 View (410) 946-1641
Photo of Francine Bouyett, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Baltimore, MD
Francine Bouyett
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CMAC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21201  (Online Only)
It can be difficult to open up and talk about your life stressors to someone you don’t know. Sometimes we can feel unheard or alone and just need someone who can be a helping, nonjudgmental, and listening ear. The hardest part can be finding the words to express ourselves and process what can feel like a jumbled mess and you just need someone to help put the scattered puzzle pieces together to create a beautiful picture. Aristotle said it best, “Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom.” I can help with building coping skills, work on effective communication, self-expression, processing trauma/grief, and mindfulness.
It can be difficult to open up and talk about your life stressors to someone you don’t know. Sometimes we can feel unheard or alone and just need someone who can be a helping, nonjudgmental, and listening ear. The hardest part can be finding the words to express ourselves and process what can feel like a jumbled mess and you just need someone to help put the scattered puzzle pieces together to create a beautiful picture. Aristotle said it best, “Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom.” I can help with building coping skills, work on effective communication, self-expression, processing trauma/grief, and mindfulness.
(410) 650-6344 View (410) 650-6344
Photo of TNAT Holistic Wellness Center | Group Therapy, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Baltimore, MD
TNAT Holistic Wellness Center | Group Therapy
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PhD, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21214
We are trauma-informed and socially and culturally competent practice in Baltimore, Maryland. We work with group members who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, and self-esteem. We take a client-centered, holistic and integrative approach towards mental health recognizing that each person has different components that make them who they are.
We are trauma-informed and socially and culturally competent practice in Baltimore, Maryland. We work with group members who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, and self-esteem. We take a client-centered, holistic and integrative approach towards mental health recognizing that each person has different components that make them who they are.
(443) 329-5741 View (443) 329-5741
Photo of Cara Baltimore, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Cara Baltimore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21208  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (MD, VA, & DC) specializing in children, adolescents, and families. I have a passion for helping others reach their highest self and offer a safe, comfortable, and culturally competent atmosphere. I have experience working with individuals who struggle with trauma, addiction, depression, anxiety, mood, psychosis, adjustment, and personality disorders. I also have worked with individuals impacted by co-occurring conditions. I also have extensive knowledge of MD Behavioral Health Administration (BHA), Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF), and The Joint Commission.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (MD, VA, & DC) specializing in children, adolescents, and families. I have a passion for helping others reach their highest self and offer a safe, comfortable, and culturally competent atmosphere. I have experience working with individuals who struggle with trauma, addiction, depression, anxiety, mood, psychosis, adjustment, and personality disorders. I also have worked with individuals impacted by co-occurring conditions. I also have extensive knowledge of MD Behavioral Health Administration (BHA), Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF), and The Joint Commission.
(443) 218-9647 View (443) 218-9647
Photo of Patti Friedman, Psychologist in Baltimore, MD
Patti Friedman
Psychologist, PsyD, MS
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21208
The success my clients experience is a direct result of our strong and supportive working alliance where confidentiality is protected, and I am a facilitator. I help my clients find answers for themselves and support them in reaching their goals. Years of clinical hypnotherapy training, and the success my clients achieve in applying relaxation training at work and in their personal lives, has been truly gratifying. I enjoy teaching patients Clinical Hypnotherapy, and the vast benefits to my clients. It is a joy to watch clients overcome phobias, pain disorders, anxiety, and stop habits, regaining self-confidence and empowerment .
The success my clients experience is a direct result of our strong and supportive working alliance where confidentiality is protected, and I am a facilitator. I help my clients find answers for themselves and support them in reaching their goals. Years of clinical hypnotherapy training, and the success my clients achieve in applying relaxation training at work and in their personal lives, has been truly gratifying. I enjoy teaching patients Clinical Hypnotherapy, and the vast benefits to my clients. It is a joy to watch clients overcome phobias, pain disorders, anxiety, and stop habits, regaining self-confidence and empowerment .
(410) 657-8622 View (410) 657-8622
Photo of Abena Adoko Sando, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Abena Adoko Sando
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21229
I have been providing mental health services for children, adolescents, and adults with various mental health needs for over 12 years. I foster an environment that is sensitive to clients'/parents' needs. Clients are encouraged to openly express thoughts/feelings so that we can focus on setting goals, identifying feelings and patterns, developing healthy/positive attitudes and behaviors, and problem solving. I would be honored to work with you/your child/family to move away from distress and towards wellness and increased satisfaction and happiness!
I have been providing mental health services for children, adolescents, and adults with various mental health needs for over 12 years. I foster an environment that is sensitive to clients'/parents' needs. Clients are encouraged to openly express thoughts/feelings so that we can focus on setting goals, identifying feelings and patterns, developing healthy/positive attitudes and behaviors, and problem solving. I would be honored to work with you/your child/family to move away from distress and towards wellness and increased satisfaction and happiness!
(443) 233-0628 View (443) 233-0628
Photo of Jesse Lee Robertson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Jesse Lee Robertson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21218  (Online Only)
I have had experience with a very wide range of folks that I've liked to work with and have found all of that work valuable and fulfilling. I think I am hoping to work with folks who are curious and open about themselves or at least would like to be. Therapy can be hard work at times and without that curiousness it can be hard to sit with those tough times. I think all folks coming into therapy are hoping to get better which I think is the earliest sign of hope in this process.
I have had experience with a very wide range of folks that I've liked to work with and have found all of that work valuable and fulfilling. I think I am hoping to work with folks who are curious and open about themselves or at least would like to be. Therapy can be hard work at times and without that curiousness it can be hard to sit with those tough times. I think all folks coming into therapy are hoping to get better which I think is the earliest sign of hope in this process.
(410) 862-2708 View (410) 862-2708
Photo of Nikki Falay, Marriage & Family Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Nikki Falay
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21211  (Online Only)
Feeling like your past experiences get in the way of having fulfilling relationships, staying present, or existing free from anxiety or depression can be scary and isolating; especially for those with marginalized identities. As dedicated as you may be to making positive change in your life, sometimes without the right help it can feel like nothing is working or like no improvement is sticking. These points of stuckness often try to drive us further from feeling encouraged or wanting to be vulnerable, but letting someone in who will treat your vulnerabilities with utmost care can be a life changing and growth inducing experience.
Feeling like your past experiences get in the way of having fulfilling relationships, staying present, or existing free from anxiety or depression can be scary and isolating; especially for those with marginalized identities. As dedicated as you may be to making positive change in your life, sometimes without the right help it can feel like nothing is working or like no improvement is sticking. These points of stuckness often try to drive us further from feeling encouraged or wanting to be vulnerable, but letting someone in who will treat your vulnerabilities with utmost care can be a life changing and growth inducing experience.
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Photo of Stefani Levin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Stefani Levin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MEd, LCSW-C, CST
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21211
How are you looking to grow, change, or expand your awareness of yourself and your relationships? My work is to support and challenge; providing you with space to explore your self and connections to others, understand the story you create around your experience, and recognize patterns in your life from a foundation of support. Together, we investigate the ways you relate to others, the ties in your history that inform where you are now, and how we can facilitate healing from pain-whether that pain looks like depression, anxiety, trauma, sexual dysfunction, or discomfort in your relationships.
How are you looking to grow, change, or expand your awareness of yourself and your relationships? My work is to support and challenge; providing you with space to explore your self and connections to others, understand the story you create around your experience, and recognize patterns in your life from a foundation of support. Together, we investigate the ways you relate to others, the ties in your history that inform where you are now, and how we can facilitate healing from pain-whether that pain looks like depression, anxiety, trauma, sexual dysfunction, or discomfort in your relationships.
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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.