Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Berlin, MD

Photo of Ian J Bolland, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Berlin, MD
Ian J Bolland
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Berlin, MD 21811  (Online Only)
** Now Accepting New Clients** Ian is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Johns Hopkins University. He has a decade of experience and started working as a mental health counselor at Sheppard Pratt Hospital in their Child and Adolescent Day Hospital. He also has experience working with adolescents and adults struggling with a variety of mental health disorders.
** Now Accepting New Clients** Ian is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Johns Hopkins University. He has a decade of experience and started working as a mental health counselor at Sheppard Pratt Hospital in their Child and Adolescent Day Hospital. He also has experience working with adolescents and adults struggling with a variety of mental health disorders.
(410) 210-4405 View (410) 210-4405
Photo of Lighthouse Counseling Christian Ministry, Counselor in Berlin, MD
Lighthouse Counseling Christian Ministry
Counselor, LCPC, LCSW-C, LMSW, LGPC
Verified Verified
Berlin, MD 21811
**Accepting New Clients** Our passion's here at Lighthouse Counseling Christian Ministry include Adolescent Counseling, Marriage and Couples Counseling, Addictions Counseling, working through anxiety and depression issues and generally listening and providing solid techniques in conflict resolution of all types. We provide a safe and confidential environment in which to develop trust and confidence. We have a diverse staff willing to walk alongside you in whatever journey you are on. IF LIFE HAS YOU DOWN, PLEASE LOOK US UP!!
**Accepting New Clients** Our passion's here at Lighthouse Counseling Christian Ministry include Adolescent Counseling, Marriage and Couples Counseling, Addictions Counseling, working through anxiety and depression issues and generally listening and providing solid techniques in conflict resolution of all types. We provide a safe and confidential environment in which to develop trust and confidence. We have a diverse staff willing to walk alongside you in whatever journey you are on. IF LIFE HAS YOU DOWN, PLEASE LOOK US UP!!
(410) 656-6128 View (410) 656-6128
Photo of Balanced Life Counseling Services, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Berlin, MD
Balanced Life Counseling Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Berlin, MD 21811
We are a group practice with several experienced Licensed Clinical Social Workers and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselors who are available to meet your needs. Most of our staff have over 15 years of therapy experience with a wide array of specialties. We offer services to clients of all ages and take most insurances.
We are a group practice with several experienced Licensed Clinical Social Workers and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselors who are available to meet your needs. Most of our staff have over 15 years of therapy experience with a wide array of specialties. We offer services to clients of all ages and take most insurances.
(443) 979-8079 View (443) 979-8079
Photo of Vincent Del Balzo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Berlin, MD
Vincent Del Balzo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Berlin, MD 21811
Not accepting new clients
(I am not currently accepting new clients into my practice.) I'm very comfortable working with adolescents and have been able to provide them with a safe, supportive and non-judgmental setting in which to explore their conflicts around family, school, and relationships as well as to consider their hopes and anxieties about the future. Typically, my clients enter therapy to work on mood and relationship issues, school/work performance problems (including motivation), and anger issues. I also have a great deal of experience working with adults in individual, family, and couples' therapy, and I offer parenting guidance.
(I am not currently accepting new clients into my practice.) I'm very comfortable working with adolescents and have been able to provide them with a safe, supportive and non-judgmental setting in which to explore their conflicts around family, school, and relationships as well as to consider their hopes and anxieties about the future. Typically, my clients enter therapy to work on mood and relationship issues, school/work performance problems (including motivation), and anger issues. I also have a great deal of experience working with adults in individual, family, and couples' therapy, and I offer parenting guidance.
(301) 918-5277 View (301) 918-5277

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Deborah C Stramella, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Berlin, MD
Deborah C Stramella
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Ocean City, MD 21842
I am a licensed clinical social worker in Maryland and Delaware who provides psychotherapy for individuals, families and couples. I have been providing therapy services since 2008 and have worked in both a clinic and private practice setting. Prior to 2008, I worked in the healthcare industry for 18 years and have experience working with the specific needs of health care providers and public service workers.
I am a licensed clinical social worker in Maryland and Delaware who provides psychotherapy for individuals, families and couples. I have been providing therapy services since 2008 and have worked in both a clinic and private practice setting. Prior to 2008, I worked in the healthcare industry for 18 years and have experience working with the specific needs of health care providers and public service workers.
(302) 246-7066 View (302) 246-7066
Photo of Leslie H Donnelly, Psychologist in Berlin, MD
Leslie H Donnelly
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Ocean Pines, MD 21811
I can offer honest and straightforward help for your issues. I specialize in anxiety, trauma, and depression. Provide EMDR and Accelerated Resolution Therapy for trauma. I can offer you practical solutions to your concerns in a brief time period. I have practiced for over 25 years. I am licensed in both MD and AZ. If you reside in MD, your sessions would be via telehealth. Online therapy sessions combine the intimate and confidential atmosphere of the therapist's office with the convenience of logging on to a video call from the comfort of your own home.
I can offer honest and straightforward help for your issues. I specialize in anxiety, trauma, and depression. Provide EMDR and Accelerated Resolution Therapy for trauma. I can offer you practical solutions to your concerns in a brief time period. I have practiced for over 25 years. I am licensed in both MD and AZ. If you reside in MD, your sessions would be via telehealth. Online therapy sessions combine the intimate and confidential atmosphere of the therapist's office with the convenience of logging on to a video call from the comfort of your own home.
(520) 317-7269 View (520) 317-7269
Photo of Diana Barabas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Berlin, MD
Diana Barabas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Ocean City, MD 21842  (Online Only)
Welcome, and thank you for considering me to walk alongside of you in your journey to a better life! I believe that we all have an innate capacity to heal and grow, just as I am aware that at times we all need a safe and trusting space to work through problems or life transitions. Having a trusting relationship with a therapist can be a great support whether you are dealing with grief, trauma, depression, anxiety, burnout, or relationship issues. Let me help! I honor each individual’s unique background, story, and characteristics, and I draw from several approaches to tailor treatment to suit your individual needs.
Welcome, and thank you for considering me to walk alongside of you in your journey to a better life! I believe that we all have an innate capacity to heal and grow, just as I am aware that at times we all need a safe and trusting space to work through problems or life transitions. Having a trusting relationship with a therapist can be a great support whether you are dealing with grief, trauma, depression, anxiety, burnout, or relationship issues. Let me help! I honor each individual’s unique background, story, and characteristics, and I draw from several approaches to tailor treatment to suit your individual needs.
(667) 230-5568 View (667) 230-5568

Online Therapists

Photo of Dr. Julia Heavner, Psychologist in Berlin, MD
Dr. Julia Heavner
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21224
Couples who begin therapy with me are often feeling distant, unfulfilled, or trying to heal from a breach of trust in the relationship. My specialization is to help clients (couples or individuals) learn how to create deeper bonds & improve communication in relationships. In my work with couples, I use Sue Johnson’s Attachment-Based Couples Therapy (EFT) as a guide for this work. I also use The Gottman Method (Level 2 trained) as needed. In my work with individuals, I believe I can be most helpful to those who suffer from relationship concerns, anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and life adjustment issues.
Couples who begin therapy with me are often feeling distant, unfulfilled, or trying to heal from a breach of trust in the relationship. My specialization is to help clients (couples or individuals) learn how to create deeper bonds & improve communication in relationships. In my work with couples, I use Sue Johnson’s Attachment-Based Couples Therapy (EFT) as a guide for this work. I also use The Gottman Method (Level 2 trained) as needed. In my work with individuals, I believe I can be most helpful to those who suffer from relationship concerns, anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and life adjustment issues.
(410) 936-6717 View (410) 936-6717
Photo of Rachel Mall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Berlin, MD
Rachel Mall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Millersville, MD 21108
Rachel has additional experience treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, grief/loss, relational conflict, and stress management.
Rachel empowers individuals to find strength in themselves and gain control of their narratives. Clients often seek therapy when everything feels out of control and emotions are at their most intense. Rachel uses therapy to examine clients’ own unique stories, identify underlying strengths, gain insight, and increase self-compassion. Since 2013, Rachel has provided outpatient psychotherapy to adolescents, adults, and seniors.
Rachel has additional experience treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, grief/loss, relational conflict, and stress management.
Rachel empowers individuals to find strength in themselves and gain control of their narratives. Clients often seek therapy when everything feels out of control and emotions are at their most intense. Rachel uses therapy to examine clients’ own unique stories, identify underlying strengths, gain insight, and increase self-compassion. Since 2013, Rachel has provided outpatient psychotherapy to adolescents, adults, and seniors.
(410) 291-8173 View (410) 291-8173
Photo of Camina Hirota-Lee, Marriage & Family Therapist in Berlin, MD
Camina Hirota-Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LGMFT
Verified Verified
Easton, MD 21601  (Online Only)
As a Licensed Graduate Marriage and Family Therapist, I work with individuals, couples, children, adolescents, and families. I have experience working with issues such as anxiety, depression, bipolar, trauma, and issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community. I work from a multicultural perspective while utilizing techniques from solution-focused and cognitive-behavioral therapy models. My counseling philosophy recognizes that the client is the expert in their own life and that everybody has the ability to grow and change. Therapy is a setting where you can help identify unresolved problems that are impacting your access to that ability.
As a Licensed Graduate Marriage and Family Therapist, I work with individuals, couples, children, adolescents, and families. I have experience working with issues such as anxiety, depression, bipolar, trauma, and issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community. I work from a multicultural perspective while utilizing techniques from solution-focused and cognitive-behavioral therapy models. My counseling philosophy recognizes that the client is the expert in their own life and that everybody has the ability to grow and change. Therapy is a setting where you can help identify unresolved problems that are impacting your access to that ability.
(240) 873-1498 View (240) 873-1498
Photo of Natasha Charles McQueen, Counselor in Berlin, MD
Natasha Charles McQueen
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Stevensville, MD 21666
At Chesapeake Bay Psychological Services, Natasha offers therapy for adjustment challenges, including immigration & re-entry; processing trauma, including childhood trauma and sexual abuse/assault; emotional challenges, including depression, bipolar, anxiety, and grief/loss; and to improve management of stress, life transitions, and other difficulties.
At Chesapeake Bay Psychological Services, Natasha offers therapy for adjustment challenges, including immigration & re-entry; processing trauma, including childhood trauma and sexual abuse/assault; emotional challenges, including depression, bipolar, anxiety, and grief/loss; and to improve management of stress, life transitions, and other difficulties.
(410) 705-2451 x1 View (410) 705-2451 x1
Photo of Joy Teitelbaum Lcsw-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Berlin, MD
Joy Teitelbaum Lcsw-C
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, Joy
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Severna Park, MD 21146  (Online Only)
My typical client has a trauma history and may be anxious, bipolar or depressed. You may have a hard time in relationships. Family members may be stressing you out. You may have a hard time getting out of bed and wonder why others have what you want which is a decent job, a serious relationship w someone who has your back and treasures you. You want family and friends who adore you.. Sometimes you have all this and more and you’re still unhappy. I think most people want to be seen, heard and understood. Understudy of Dr. Josh Coleman, I also work in adult child estrangement, If any of this resonates, I think I can help.
My typical client has a trauma history and may be anxious, bipolar or depressed. You may have a hard time in relationships. Family members may be stressing you out. You may have a hard time getting out of bed and wonder why others have what you want which is a decent job, a serious relationship w someone who has your back and treasures you. You want family and friends who adore you.. Sometimes you have all this and more and you’re still unhappy. I think most people want to be seen, heard and understood. Understudy of Dr. Josh Coleman, I also work in adult child estrangement, If any of this resonates, I think I can help.
(240) 392-1366 View (240) 392-1366
Photo of Brian DeLaurentis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Berlin, MD
Brian DeLaurentis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Linthicum Heights, MD 21090
Brian DeLaurentis, LMSW, is a Licensed Master Social Worker who practices under the supervision of Martin Schnuit, LCSW-C. He is a graduate of The Catholic University of Americas National Catholic School of Social Service where he received his Masters of Social Work with a clinical concentration. Before Catholic, Brian attended Manhattan College where he earned a bachelors degree in Psychology and competed at a division I level in NCAA athletics. Brian has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with multiple issues including behavioral problems, depression, ADHD, Bipolar, OCD, PTSD, and anxiety.
Brian DeLaurentis, LMSW, is a Licensed Master Social Worker who practices under the supervision of Martin Schnuit, LCSW-C. He is a graduate of The Catholic University of Americas National Catholic School of Social Service where he received his Masters of Social Work with a clinical concentration. Before Catholic, Brian attended Manhattan College where he earned a bachelors degree in Psychology and competed at a division I level in NCAA athletics. Brian has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with multiple issues including behavioral problems, depression, ADHD, Bipolar, OCD, PTSD, and anxiety.
(410) 873-1907 View (410) 873-1907
Photo of Margaret Oliver in Berlin, MD
Margaret Oliver
NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Upper Marlboro, MD 20774  (Online Only)
Maggie is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She has a Master of Science in Nursing from Vanderbilt University School of Nursing, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and minor in Neuroscience from Miami University. Since 2013 she has worked in various settings, such as: community mental health, private practice, corrections, and skilled/assisted nursing facilities. Maggie specializes in geriatric psychiatry, anxiety disorders (including post traumatic stress disorder, panic disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder), mood disorders (including major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder/ADHD)
Maggie is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She has a Master of Science in Nursing from Vanderbilt University School of Nursing, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and minor in Neuroscience from Miami University. Since 2013 she has worked in various settings, such as: community mental health, private practice, corrections, and skilled/assisted nursing facilities. Maggie specializes in geriatric psychiatry, anxiety disorders (including post traumatic stress disorder, panic disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder), mood disorders (including major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder/ADHD)
(240) 713-5299 View (240) 713-5299
Photo of Doveal Goins, Psychologist in Berlin, MD
Doveal Goins
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Crofton, MD 21114
Dr Goins special interests are working with children, adolescents and adults in psychotherapy, addressing a wide range of psychological disorders including depression, anxiety, self-harm/suicidal behaviors, conduct and mood disorders, bipolar disorder, borderline and antisocial personality disorder, ADHD, PTSD and LGBTQ issues.
Doveal Goins, Psy. D. , is a licensed clinical forensic psychologist who earned her Bachelor of Arts in English, and Master of Arts in Education from National University. She went on to earn a Master of Arts in Clinical Forensic Psychology and her Doctoral Degree in Clinical Forensic Psychology from Alliant International University in San Diego, California.
Dr Goins special interests are working with children, adolescents and adults in psychotherapy, addressing a wide range of psychological disorders including depression, anxiety, self-harm/suicidal behaviors, conduct and mood disorders, bipolar disorder, borderline and antisocial personality disorder, ADHD, PTSD and LGBTQ issues.
Doveal Goins, Psy. D. , is a licensed clinical forensic psychologist who earned her Bachelor of Arts in English, and Master of Arts in Education from National University. She went on to earn a Master of Arts in Clinical Forensic Psychology and her Doctoral Degree in Clinical Forensic Psychology from Alliant International University in San Diego, California.
(410) 216-5802 View (410) 216-5802
Photo of Remedy Counseling, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Berlin, MD
Remedy Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, Owner
Verified Verified
Severna Park, MD 21146  (Online Only)
We specialize in trauma, Bipolar, Depression, ADHD, Grief, Life Transitions, Mood Disorder's, & Anxiety.
Remedy Counseling, LLC has been open for 13 years and has seasoned therapist's to meet the needs of clients ages 6 and up, pre-teen, teenagers, adults, couples', and family therapy. Brandy has over 25 years’ experience working in the mental health and substance abuse field. Brandy is certified in "Brainspotting" and uses this technique in conjunction with talk therapy interventions. Brandy is trained in Staffing & Crisis Response for Mass Casualties & Bariatric Evaluations on a self-pay basis. Our goal is to assist you with your issues and treat your diagnosis & stressors to assist you to achieve stability in your life.
We specialize in trauma, Bipolar, Depression, ADHD, Grief, Life Transitions, Mood Disorder's, & Anxiety.
Remedy Counseling, LLC has been open for 13 years and has seasoned therapist's to meet the needs of clients ages 6 and up, pre-teen, teenagers, adults, couples', and family therapy. Brandy has over 25 years’ experience working in the mental health and substance abuse field. Brandy is certified in "Brainspotting" and uses this technique in conjunction with talk therapy interventions. Brandy is trained in Staffing & Crisis Response for Mass Casualties & Bariatric Evaluations on a self-pay basis. Our goal is to assist you with your issues and treat your diagnosis & stressors to assist you to achieve stability in your life.
(667) 226-0404 View (667) 226-0404
Photo of William Willis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Berlin, MD
William Willis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Severna Park, MD 21146
Many of us struggle to manage many of life's challenges on top of feeling fear, frustration, or deep sadness. That being said, you've already taken an important first step in connecting with help! I've seen clients who experience anxiety, depression, bipolar, personality disorders, trauma, grief, life changes, anger, and interpersonal issues. My goal is to help you feel comfortable managing whatever symptoms you may be experiencing while embracing wellness and change. I am a culturally sensitive, LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist. Slots are available for some morning and afternoon weekly or biweekly times.
Many of us struggle to manage many of life's challenges on top of feeling fear, frustration, or deep sadness. That being said, you've already taken an important first step in connecting with help! I've seen clients who experience anxiety, depression, bipolar, personality disorders, trauma, grief, life changes, anger, and interpersonal issues. My goal is to help you feel comfortable managing whatever symptoms you may be experiencing while embracing wellness and change. I am a culturally sensitive, LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist. Slots are available for some morning and afternoon weekly or biweekly times.
(410) 401-1818 View (410) 401-1818
Photo of Healing Minds and Hearts Services, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Berlin, MD
Healing Minds and Hearts Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Plata, MD 20646  (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 Cocco Mental Health and Wellness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Berlin, MD
Cocco Mental Health and Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
Megan Cocco, LCSW-C, has 9 years of private practice experience treating adolescents and adults with a variety of circumstances including ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, life transitions, grief and loss, relationship issues and trauma. Megan has experience working with the LGBTQIA+ community and provides a safe and comfortable therapy environment. Megan attended the University of Maryland School of Social Work in Baltimore, Maryland and graduated with her Master's of Social Work (MSW) in 2013. Megan is also a Board approved supervisor.
Megan Cocco, LCSW-C, has 9 years of private practice experience treating adolescents and adults with a variety of circumstances including ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, life transitions, grief and loss, relationship issues and trauma. Megan has experience working with the LGBTQIA+ community and provides a safe and comfortable therapy environment. Megan attended the University of Maryland School of Social Work in Baltimore, Maryland and graduated with her Master's of Social Work (MSW) in 2013. Megan is also a Board approved supervisor.
(667) 274-0902 View (667) 274-0902
Photo of JoLynn Bitler, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Berlin, MD
JoLynn Bitler
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401  (Online Only)
LPCMH, LCPC JoLynn, “Jo” brings over a decade of counseling experience. She obtained a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at Liberty University. Her training encompasses families, couples, men and women, children, and adolescents from various walks of life. JoLynn is comfortable helping diverse populations and personalities. JoLynn is confident in her skill set to address stigmatized mental health concerns such as clinical depression, adjustment and anxiety disorders, bipolar, anger, trauma, and attachment issues from childhood.
LPCMH, LCPC JoLynn, “Jo” brings over a decade of counseling experience. She obtained a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at Liberty University. Her training encompasses families, couples, men and women, children, and adolescents from various walks of life. JoLynn is comfortable helping diverse populations and personalities. JoLynn is confident in her skill set to address stigmatized mental health concerns such as clinical depression, adjustment and anxiety disorders, bipolar, anger, trauma, and attachment issues from childhood.
(410) 538-1916 View (410) 538-1916

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Nearby Bipolar Disorder Therapists Searches for Berlin

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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.