Photo of Best Life Behavioral Health in North Bethesda, MD
Best Life Behavioral Health
PhD
Verified Verified
North Bethesda, MD 20852  (Online Only)
Has therapy been a waste of time before? At Best Life, we help you start living the life you deserve! Jessica Jeffers LGPC works with mood issues and couples. Vicktoria Molokin LCPC works with life transitions and anxiety. Lindsey Weekley LCPC works with parenting, anger, bipolar, and more. Meredith Futernick, LPC works with anxiety, depression, and DBT. Kat Defilippi LPC works with mood issues, couples, anxiety, and career. Danielle Goldberg LCSW-C works with trauma, depression, and parenting. Stefanie Rider LPC does trauma and EMDR. We also offer life, career, and sex coaching!
Has therapy been a waste of time before? At Best Life, we help you start living the life you deserve! Jessica Jeffers LGPC works with mood issues and couples. Vicktoria Molokin LCPC works with life transitions and anxiety. Lindsey Weekley LCPC works with parenting, anger, bipolar, and more. Meredith Futernick, LPC works with anxiety, depression, and DBT. Kat Defilippi LPC works with mood issues, couples, anxiety, and career. Danielle Goldberg LCSW-C works with trauma, depression, and parenting. Stefanie Rider LPC does trauma and EMDR. We also offer life, career, and sex coaching!
(301) 900-5808 View (301) 900-5808
Photo of Chia-May C Dougherty, Counselor in North Bethesda, MD
Chia-May C Dougherty
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, LPC, NCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
North Bethesda, MD 20852  (Online Only)
We, as human beings, have our habitual way to think, feel, and behave which may not always help us cope well. We may feel stuck in the past, fearful for the unknown future, and not being able to be present in the moment. Yet, the present is the only time that we can do something to make a change and feel better. We can stop struggling and begin to practice acceptance and grow through our experiences. In the practice of mindfulness, we are able to observe and become aware of the attachment to our habitual pattern of unhelpful thoughts and be present in the now moment by cultivating a non-judgmental mind and a new beginner's mind.
We, as human beings, have our habitual way to think, feel, and behave which may not always help us cope well. We may feel stuck in the past, fearful for the unknown future, and not being able to be present in the moment. Yet, the present is the only time that we can do something to make a change and feel better. We can stop struggling and begin to practice acceptance and grow through our experiences. In the practice of mindfulness, we are able to observe and become aware of the attachment to our habitual pattern of unhelpful thoughts and be present in the now moment by cultivating a non-judgmental mind and a new beginner's mind.
(240) 453-4343 View (240) 453-4343
Photo of Elana Hoffman, Psychologist in North Bethesda, MD
Elana Hoffman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
North Bethesda, MD 20852  (Online Only)
I love working with couples and individuals with difficulty in romantic relationships (i.e. sexual issues, communication, infidelity, divorce), adults who come from dysfunctional childhoods, as well as those with anxiety, impulsivity, and addiction. I also enjoy working with those in non-traditional romantic relationships (i.e. ethically non-monogamous, polyamorous). I am LGBTQIA- affirming and sex positive. I work best with clients who are engaged, thoughtful, and motivated for change. My style is empathic and direct, with a sense of humor. I believe strongly in the therapeutic alliance and the client/therapist fit.
I love working with couples and individuals with difficulty in romantic relationships (i.e. sexual issues, communication, infidelity, divorce), adults who come from dysfunctional childhoods, as well as those with anxiety, impulsivity, and addiction. I also enjoy working with those in non-traditional romantic relationships (i.e. ethically non-monogamous, polyamorous). I am LGBTQIA- affirming and sex positive. I work best with clients who are engaged, thoughtful, and motivated for change. My style is empathic and direct, with a sense of humor. I believe strongly in the therapeutic alliance and the client/therapist fit.
(301) 610-3456 View (301) 610-3456
Photo of Dina Zalami, Counselor in North Bethesda, MD
Dina Zalami
Counselor, MEd, LGPC
Verified Verified
North Bethesda, MD 20852
I welcome individuals from all backgrounds who are willing to engage in the meaningful journey of psychotherapy. My intention is to create a safe space where you can feel supported, nurtured, and guided. Through therapy, I hope to help you alleviate emotional distress/symptomatology, improve your relationships- including the one you have with yourself, as well as make choices that are in line with your values and that will permit you to live a fulfilling life. I offer therapy in English, Arabic and French.
I welcome individuals from all backgrounds who are willing to engage in the meaningful journey of psychotherapy. My intention is to create a safe space where you can feel supported, nurtured, and guided. Through therapy, I hope to help you alleviate emotional distress/symptomatology, improve your relationships- including the one you have with yourself, as well as make choices that are in line with your values and that will permit you to live a fulfilling life. I offer therapy in English, Arabic and French.
(301) 381-5169 View (301) 381-5169
Photo of Rachael Spenadel, Counselor in North Bethesda, MD
Rachael Spenadel
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
North Bethesda, MD 20852  (Online Only)
Please note I am only seeing clients via telehealth. I have convenient evening hours, available 3pm to 8pm, Monday through Thursday. My ideal client is motivated to change and build a deeper understanding of self. They may be feeling stuck or lost and need an external push. I provide compassion, humor, and insight, and tailored strategies to empower you to finding your way. I have a lot of experience working with college students and post-grads, but love working with teenagers and adults of any age.
Please note I am only seeing clients via telehealth. I have convenient evening hours, available 3pm to 8pm, Monday through Thursday. My ideal client is motivated to change and build a deeper understanding of self. They may be feeling stuck or lost and need an external push. I provide compassion, humor, and insight, and tailored strategies to empower you to finding your way. I have a lot of experience working with college students and post-grads, but love working with teenagers and adults of any age.
(240) 453-4029 View (240) 453-4029
Photo of Ryan O'Leary, Counselor in North Bethesda, MD
Ryan O'Leary
Counselor
Verified Verified
North Bethesda, MD 20852
Hi! I am a licensed graduate therapist working under the direct supervision of Jaclyn Halpern, PsyD at the SOAR program of Washington Behavioral Medicine Associates, LLC. If you're reading this, you and or a loved one may be feeling overwhelmed, struggling with difficult emotions, or seeking guidance and support. Whatever your reasons may be, know that you are not alone, and that I am here for you! I use a humanistic and person-centered approach to therapy, which means that I believe in your unique qualities and strengths, and that I want to help you connect with your own inner wisdom and resilience.
Hi! I am a licensed graduate therapist working under the direct supervision of Jaclyn Halpern, PsyD at the SOAR program of Washington Behavioral Medicine Associates, LLC. If you're reading this, you and or a loved one may be feeling overwhelmed, struggling with difficult emotions, or seeking guidance and support. Whatever your reasons may be, know that you are not alone, and that I am here for you! I use a humanistic and person-centered approach to therapy, which means that I believe in your unique qualities and strengths, and that I want to help you connect with your own inner wisdom and resilience.
(301) 709-7051 View (301) 709-7051
Photo of Angela Moeny, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in North Bethesda, MD
Angela Moeny
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Bethesda, MD 20852
Bring your anxious, overwhelmed, burned out, unmotivated self over here and let's talk for a minute. Some days, just being a semi-functional human seems really hard. Add in some brain fog, irritability, sleep disturbance, loss of social connection, a global pandemic, sociopolitical upheaval, and/or interpersonal conflict and you may not be feeling your best. I'm here to provide the stability, support, and resources to help you become the most vibrant, authentic version of yourself. Whether you want to address a clinical diagnosis, have an existential crisis, smash the patriarchy, or just sleep better at night, I'm here for you.
Bring your anxious, overwhelmed, burned out, unmotivated self over here and let's talk for a minute. Some days, just being a semi-functional human seems really hard. Add in some brain fog, irritability, sleep disturbance, loss of social connection, a global pandemic, sociopolitical upheaval, and/or interpersonal conflict and you may not be feeling your best. I'm here to provide the stability, support, and resources to help you become the most vibrant, authentic version of yourself. Whether you want to address a clinical diagnosis, have an existential crisis, smash the patriarchy, or just sleep better at night, I'm here for you.
(301) 945-7589 View (301) 945-7589
Photo of Lottena Wolters, Licensed Professional Counselor in North Bethesda, MD
Lottena Wolters
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Bethesda, MD 20895
Not accepting new clients
Many patients struggle with the fact that they seek therapy. However, I applaud your choice to begin the significant process of self exploration and growth. I believe that in spite of pitfalls and stressors, we are all faced with the opportunity to choose how we live our life. By validating feelings I help my clients fully accept themselves while encouraging and motivating them to do their best. Together we will gain acceptance of the choices that lead you to therapy, then collaboratively develop and implement a plan that will allow you to seek better and more rewarding opportunities.
Many patients struggle with the fact that they seek therapy. However, I applaud your choice to begin the significant process of self exploration and growth. I believe that in spite of pitfalls and stressors, we are all faced with the opportunity to choose how we live our life. By validating feelings I help my clients fully accept themselves while encouraging and motivating them to do their best. Together we will gain acceptance of the choices that lead you to therapy, then collaboratively develop and implement a plan that will allow you to seek better and more rewarding opportunities.
(202) 978-1413 View (202) 978-1413

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Katrin I Kutlucinar, Counselor in North Bethesda, MD
Katrin I Kutlucinar
Counselor, MA, LGPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20852  (Online Only)
I use EMDR for Trauma, Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy for Bipolar Disorder (ISRT), CBT-P for Psychosis, I am a Certified Trauma Professional, and I am one of a handful of clinicians in the United States trained in Family-Focused Therapy for Bipolar Disorder (FFT).
You need to talk to someone. You're in a stressful place in your life. Not only is your desire for clarity and comfort at its peak but your need to find the right therapist is a leap of faith. Seeing me, you may find our sessions to be empowering, challenging, yet comfortable, and at times humorous. You can become energized by the unfolding of your story, and gaining new insights into your thoughts and feelings that are no longer working for you. Are you having difficulties adjusting to life with a mental health disorder or struggling to make sense of a traumatic experience?
I use EMDR for Trauma, Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy for Bipolar Disorder (ISRT), CBT-P for Psychosis, I am a Certified Trauma Professional, and I am one of a handful of clinicians in the United States trained in Family-Focused Therapy for Bipolar Disorder (FFT).
You need to talk to someone. You're in a stressful place in your life. Not only is your desire for clarity and comfort at its peak but your need to find the right therapist is a leap of faith. Seeing me, you may find our sessions to be empowering, challenging, yet comfortable, and at times humorous. You can become energized by the unfolding of your story, and gaining new insights into your thoughts and feelings that are no longer working for you. Are you having difficulties adjusting to life with a mental health disorder or struggling to make sense of a traumatic experience?
(301) 685-7654 View (301) 685-7654
Photo of Classen-Miller and Associates, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Classen-Miller and Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MSW
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20852
Specialties of our therapists include depression, anxiety, addiction, substance abuse, bipolar, borderline personality, dual diagnosis, self-harm, OCD, psychosis, eating disorders, adoption, learning disability, ADHD, autism, insomnia, divorce, women's issues, infertility, cross-cultural, marital, couples, relationships, family conflict, trauma, PTSD, grief.
TELETHERAPY AND IN-OFFICE APPOINTMENTS with experienced psychotherapists who are licensed at the highest level of their profession. We accept mayor insurance plans and work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families, Our clinicians reflect the full diversity of our community. We provide a safe and nonjudgmental environment that enables our clients to work towards solutions, develop coping skills and have a better understanding of the issues that interfere with self-esteem and a sense of well being.
Specialties of our therapists include depression, anxiety, addiction, substance abuse, bipolar, borderline personality, dual diagnosis, self-harm, OCD, psychosis, eating disorders, adoption, learning disability, ADHD, autism, insomnia, divorce, women's issues, infertility, cross-cultural, marital, couples, relationships, family conflict, trauma, PTSD, grief.
TELETHERAPY AND IN-OFFICE APPOINTMENTS with experienced psychotherapists who are licensed at the highest level of their profession. We accept mayor insurance plans and work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families, Our clinicians reflect the full diversity of our community. We provide a safe and nonjudgmental environment that enables our clients to work towards solutions, develop coping skills and have a better understanding of the issues that interfere with self-esteem and a sense of well being.
(301) 918-5312 View (301) 918-5312
Photo of Breighone Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Breighone Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
Are you suffering from symptoms of depression, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, autism spectrum, OCD, and/or PTSD? I'm here to help facilitate your healing process and provide a safe space to voice your deepest concerns freely. Our goal is to significantly improve your self-concept, increase a positive outlook on life, and, most importantly, feel like your best self.
Are you suffering from symptoms of depression, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, autism spectrum, OCD, and/or PTSD? I'm here to help facilitate your healing process and provide a safe space to voice your deepest concerns freely. Our goal is to significantly improve your self-concept, increase a positive outlook on life, and, most importantly, feel like your best self.
(240) 376-2638 View (240) 376-2638
Photo of Therapy For Bipolar Disorder, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Therapy For Bipolar Disorder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
People with bipolar disorder often feel exhausted and trapped by mood swings. You may feel euphoric, impulsive, and on top of the world (or agitated and angry)-and then eventually crash and be filled with hopelessness and despair. Some people may have thoughts of "wishing they weren't here" and "wanting the pain to end." Some folks experience delusions i.e. false beliefs not rooted in reality. However, even if you do not experience this symptom-all struggles with bipolar disorder are serious and deserve treatment.
People with bipolar disorder often feel exhausted and trapped by mood swings. You may feel euphoric, impulsive, and on top of the world (or agitated and angry)-and then eventually crash and be filled with hopelessness and despair. Some people may have thoughts of "wishing they weren't here" and "wanting the pain to end." Some folks experience delusions i.e. false beliefs not rooted in reality. However, even if you do not experience this symptom-all struggles with bipolar disorder are serious and deserve treatment.
(240) 414-4016 View (240) 414-4016
Photo of Sam Wilson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Sam Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kensington, MD 20895  (Online Only)
Do you feel trapped by circumstances beyond your control? Are you unable to escape negative thoughts? Have you forgotten why you made the decisions that led you to this moment? Talk therapy can offer a way forward. Therapy can be a safe space to catch your breath, to talk out ideas that feel strange or risky, and to devise a new strategy for reconnecting with your best self. I'll do my best to help no matter what you're facing but right now I'm especially enthusiastic about working with young adults and professionals coping with ADHD, men's issues, relationship issues, bipolar disorder, depression, anger management and anxiety.
Do you feel trapped by circumstances beyond your control? Are you unable to escape negative thoughts? Have you forgotten why you made the decisions that led you to this moment? Talk therapy can offer a way forward. Therapy can be a safe space to catch your breath, to talk out ideas that feel strange or risky, and to devise a new strategy for reconnecting with your best self. I'll do my best to help no matter what you're facing but right now I'm especially enthusiastic about working with young adults and professionals coping with ADHD, men's issues, relationship issues, bipolar disorder, depression, anger management and anxiety.
(240) 292-8651 View (240) 292-8651
Photo of Beth Aitken, Counselor in North Bethesda, MD
Beth Aitken
Counselor, MA, LGPC
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20916
I am a therapist who works with adults seeking deeper understanding of life issues such as grief, loss, depression, anxiety, bipolar, and trauma.
You may be interested in working with me if you want a counselor who works on integrating mind, soul, and spirit. If your goal is to achieve a balanced life and greater sense of wholeness and peace then my style might match with you.
I am a therapist who works with adults seeking deeper understanding of life issues such as grief, loss, depression, anxiety, bipolar, and trauma.
You may be interested in working with me if you want a counselor who works on integrating mind, soul, and spirit. If your goal is to achieve a balanced life and greater sense of wholeness and peace then my style might match with you.
(301) 685-0662 View (301) 685-0662
Photo of Sarah Levine-Miles, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Sarah Levine-Miles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20852
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and/or isolated? Are you living a life that you are proud of and that is aligned with what you care about? I have 10+ years of experience working with people through emotional pain and struggle that is a natural, but difficult, part of life. I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life transitions, relationship issues, and periods of stagnation. I have expertise in treating anxiety, depression, perfectionism, people pleasing, OCD, bipolar disorder, and the pregnancy and postpartum period. I have a warm, encouraging, honest, strength-based approach to therapy.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and/or isolated? Are you living a life that you are proud of and that is aligned with what you care about? I have 10+ years of experience working with people through emotional pain and struggle that is a natural, but difficult, part of life. I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life transitions, relationship issues, and periods of stagnation. I have expertise in treating anxiety, depression, perfectionism, people pleasing, OCD, bipolar disorder, and the pregnancy and postpartum period. I have a warm, encouraging, honest, strength-based approach to therapy.
(240) 220-9960 View (240) 220-9960
Photo of Nicole Rollins-Lamar, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in North Bethesda, MD
Nicole Rollins-Lamar
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PsyD, LCPC
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20852
My areas of practice include depression, anxiety, bipolar, trauma; couples/family relationships, women's issues; postpartum difficulties, parenting concerns, and self-esteem issues.
TELETHERAPY For more than 15 years I've worked with adults, couples, families, and adolescents in Illinois, DC, and Maryland. I often use a diverse and ethnically sensitive and relevant approach to treatment. It is my goal to provide a non-judgmental and welcoming space for clients to ultimately experience joy, develop more effective coping strategies, and best understand their life's purpose. I value the therapeutic connection and relationship that includes a non judgmental and empathetic environment.
My areas of practice include depression, anxiety, bipolar, trauma; couples/family relationships, women's issues; postpartum difficulties, parenting concerns, and self-esteem issues.
TELETHERAPY For more than 15 years I've worked with adults, couples, families, and adolescents in Illinois, DC, and Maryland. I often use a diverse and ethnically sensitive and relevant approach to treatment. It is my goal to provide a non-judgmental and welcoming space for clients to ultimately experience joy, develop more effective coping strategies, and best understand their life's purpose. I value the therapeutic connection and relationship that includes a non judgmental and empathetic environment.
(301) 433-7895 View (301) 433-7895
Photo of Bentley Noland, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Bentley Noland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20852
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, biploar disorder, or have experienced trauma? Have you self-medicated in an attempt to manage your emotions? You can expect supportive, practical help in overcoming trauma, the treatment of mood disorders, and recovery from substance abuse and behavioral addictions. Therapy will be tailored to your needs, using the tools that work best for you, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Restructuring (a core technique from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), and learning stress reduction skills. In therapy, you can build lasting alternatives to unhealthy family dynamics.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, biploar disorder, or have experienced trauma? Have you self-medicated in an attempt to manage your emotions? You can expect supportive, practical help in overcoming trauma, the treatment of mood disorders, and recovery from substance abuse and behavioral addictions. Therapy will be tailored to your needs, using the tools that work best for you, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Restructuring (a core technique from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), and learning stress reduction skills. In therapy, you can build lasting alternatives to unhealthy family dynamics.
(202) 831-1608 View (202) 831-1608
Photo of Georgina S Arhin, Counselor in North Bethesda, MD
Georgina S Arhin
Counselor, LCPC, LPC, ACS, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
There is nothing like being listened to and understood on a deep level, with genuine interest, unconditional positive regard, congruence, empathy and acceptance. This is what I strive to offer in therapy, as we explore together your hopes and dreams, your losses and regrets, your longings and fears. Many people come to therapy to free themselves from self-defeating patterns, maladaptive behaviors and the legacy of past traumas, so they can be more truly themselves in relation to others and live with greater satisfaction and meaning.
There is nothing like being listened to and understood on a deep level, with genuine interest, unconditional positive regard, congruence, empathy and acceptance. This is what I strive to offer in therapy, as we explore together your hopes and dreams, your losses and regrets, your longings and fears. Many people come to therapy to free themselves from self-defeating patterns, maladaptive behaviors and the legacy of past traumas, so they can be more truly themselves in relation to others and live with greater satisfaction and meaning.
(240) 713-5995 View (240) 713-5995
Photo of Katharina Von Gersdorff, Counselor in North Bethesda, MD
Katharina Von Gersdorff
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20852
TELETHERAPY AVAILABLE. I enjoy working with adolescents, adults, couples, children and families who are facing a challenge and are looking for support. My experience in clinical practice allows me to assist with goal directed activities and work to achieve significant changes. A large part of my work is helping clients manage their anxiety or depression and to take concrete steps towards a more positive future. We work together to accomplish goals that the client has chosen to gain a greater understanding of themselves and their behaviors.We focus on changing relationship dynamics and learning new coping skills.
TELETHERAPY AVAILABLE. I enjoy working with adolescents, adults, couples, children and families who are facing a challenge and are looking for support. My experience in clinical practice allows me to assist with goal directed activities and work to achieve significant changes. A large part of my work is helping clients manage their anxiety or depression and to take concrete steps towards a more positive future. We work together to accomplish goals that the client has chosen to gain a greater understanding of themselves and their behaviors.We focus on changing relationship dynamics and learning new coping skills.
(301) 804-2350 View (301) 804-2350
Photo of Weisner Psychotherapy, LLC, Psychologist in North Bethesda, MD
Weisner Psychotherapy, LLC
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP, CST
Verified Verified
Kensington, MD 20895
I have worked extensively with clients to help them address a wide variety of concerns, including: Depression and anxiety • Work-related stress • Academic concerns (learning issues, attention problems) • Time management and organizational skills • Grief, loss, and bereavement • Spiritual and existential issues, including crises of faith and integrating beliefs and values • Life transitions (e.g., entering / leaving the workforce; marriage and divorce) • Identity issues and experiences of bias, discrimination, and oppression • Sexual and gender-related concerns
I have worked extensively with clients to help them address a wide variety of concerns, including: Depression and anxiety • Work-related stress • Academic concerns (learning issues, attention problems) • Time management and organizational skills • Grief, loss, and bereavement • Spiritual and existential issues, including crises of faith and integrating beliefs and values • Life transitions (e.g., entering / leaving the workforce; marriage and divorce) • Identity issues and experiences of bias, discrimination, and oppression • Sexual and gender-related concerns
(703) 457-8710 View (703) 457-8710

See more therapy options for North Bethesda

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.