Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Lovell, ME

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Online Therapists

Photo of Dal Dumars, MA,  LCPC
Dal Dumars
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101
Mark’s therapeutic philosophy centers on the belief that individuals often find themselves stuck in repetitive mental or behavioral loops, rather than having intrinsic problems. His approach aims to uncover and reinforce the fundamental goodness within his clients, using this as a foundation to tackle areas where they feel stagnant or overwhelmed. This method has proven effective for those dealing with a range of conditions, including bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, and trauma-related disorders.
Mark’s therapeutic philosophy centers on the belief that individuals often find themselves stuck in repetitive mental or behavioral loops, rather than having intrinsic problems. His approach aims to uncover and reinforce the fundamental goodness within his clients, using this as a foundation to tackle areas where they feel stagnant or overwhelmed. This method has proven effective for those dealing with a range of conditions, including bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, and trauma-related disorders.
(866) 505-6081 View (866) 505-6081
Photo of Julie Cole - Brightside Health, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brightside Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
Brunswick, ME 04011  (Online Only)
We specialize in treating anxiety, depression, and many other common concerns like panic, bipolar, postpartum depression, and suicidal thoughts.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
We specialize in treating anxiety, depression, and many other common concerns like panic, bipolar, postpartum depression, and suicidal thoughts.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
(207) 672-2720 View (207) 672-2720
Photo of Amy Hale, LCPC, Counselor
Amy Hale
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Biddeford, ME 04005  (Online Only)
Welcome! I am a licensed therapist here in Maine who specializes in trauma and mood/personality disorders. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and I also am certified in DBT! I have experience working with Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, and C-PTSD. I also focus on woman and postpartum and perinatal care. I am a supporter of empowerment, helping people to find themselves and heal in a space where their voice is heard and they feel supported. I use a trauma-informed framework to help hold a warm and safe space for you to heal. I work hard to help you feel heard, understood, and in control of your healing.
Welcome! I am a licensed therapist here in Maine who specializes in trauma and mood/personality disorders. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and I also am certified in DBT! I have experience working with Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, and C-PTSD. I also focus on woman and postpartum and perinatal care. I am a supporter of empowerment, helping people to find themselves and heal in a space where their voice is heard and they feel supported. I use a trauma-informed framework to help hold a warm and safe space for you to heal. I work hard to help you feel heard, understood, and in control of your healing.
(207) 679-0493 View (207) 679-0493
Photo of Mary Crawford Petrini, LCPC, Counselor
Mary Crawford Petrini
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Augusta, ME 04330
I have a background of the more serious mental health problems such as Mood Disorders including Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar I and Bipolar II Disorders.
I believe in the uniqueness of each human being and that all people have inherent strengths. I know when a person seeks counseling it is because he/she is feeling overwhelmed or stuck. In the safety of a professional helping relationship you will address those areas as well as recognize and utilize your own strengths so you can move forward to resolve your problems. I work with people on a variety of difficult life issues and I meet each person where they are at. In addition to helping individual adults, I work with parents, families and children ages 7-18.
I have a background of the more serious mental health problems such as Mood Disorders including Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar I and Bipolar II Disorders.
I believe in the uniqueness of each human being and that all people have inherent strengths. I know when a person seeks counseling it is because he/she is feeling overwhelmed or stuck. In the safety of a professional helping relationship you will address those areas as well as recognize and utilize your own strengths so you can move forward to resolve your problems. I work with people on a variety of difficult life issues and I meet each person where they are at. In addition to helping individual adults, I work with parents, families and children ages 7-18.
(207) 518-7656 View (207) 518-7656
Photo of Jennifer Hanic, MSW,  LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Hanic
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brunswick, ME 04011
Serving the Maine community, Jennifer helps clients navigate challenges related to anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, grief, and midlife transitions, offering individualized care tailored to each person's needs.
Jennifer Hanic, LCSW, practices at LifeStance Health in Maine, bringing over 20 years of experience to her clients. Jennifer is dedicated to creating a therapeutic environment where clients feel supported and understood. She utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and is certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to address a range of mental health issues.
Serving the Maine community, Jennifer helps clients navigate challenges related to anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, grief, and midlife transitions, offering individualized care tailored to each person's needs.
Jennifer Hanic, LCSW, practices at LifeStance Health in Maine, bringing over 20 years of experience to her clients. Jennifer is dedicated to creating a therapeutic environment where clients feel supported and understood. She utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and is certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to address a range of mental health issues.
(866) 505-6081 View (866) 505-6081
Photo of Sandra P Falsey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sandra P Falsey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Falmouth, ME 04105
Life these days can be complicated, confusing and challenging. As a psychotherapist, my goal is to offer an open, non-judgmental and safe therapeutic relationship to help foster personal growth and change. I am fluent in a variety of physical and psychological conditions, including fibromyalgia, chronic pain, depression, anxiety, phobias, relationship issues, grief/loss, bipolar disorder, insomnia, and many others. I am also a master clinician in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART). For more information on ART, please visit my website via the link on the left.
Life these days can be complicated, confusing and challenging. As a psychotherapist, my goal is to offer an open, non-judgmental and safe therapeutic relationship to help foster personal growth and change. I am fluent in a variety of physical and psychological conditions, including fibromyalgia, chronic pain, depression, anxiety, phobias, relationship issues, grief/loss, bipolar disorder, insomnia, and many others. I am also a master clinician in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART). For more information on ART, please visit my website via the link on the left.
(207) 806-5591 View (207) 806-5591
Photo of Steffanie Alexander, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Steffanie Alexander
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04102
I help clients navigate life’s stresses and difficulties using treatment methods that are collaborative, evidence based and results oriented. I use problem solving therapies such as: CBT, Solution-Oriented and Positive Psychology. Somatic approaches like Polyvagal Therapy and HRV biofeedback. And I have a foundation in Psychodynamic and Systems Therapy. Helping clients develop resilience and skills to navigate transition, crisis or change is a particular area of specialty. I also work with individuals, couples and families affected by head injury and adult ADHD, bipolar disorder, etc.
I help clients navigate life’s stresses and difficulties using treatment methods that are collaborative, evidence based and results oriented. I use problem solving therapies such as: CBT, Solution-Oriented and Positive Psychology. Somatic approaches like Polyvagal Therapy and HRV biofeedback. And I have a foundation in Psychodynamic and Systems Therapy. Helping clients develop resilience and skills to navigate transition, crisis or change is a particular area of specialty. I also work with individuals, couples and families affected by head injury and adult ADHD, bipolar disorder, etc.
(207) 605-8512 View (207) 605-8512
Photo of Sherie Daigle, LCSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sherie Daigle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Brunswick, ME 04011  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Sherie and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 25 years of experience working within the mental health field. I'm passionate about partnering with you to identify and address what is getting in the way of living the life that you imagine for yourself! The majority of my practice focuses on individuals who are navigating the impacts of trauma, anxiety and panic disorders, relationship issues, and bipolar disorders. I offer a free consultation to explore your individual needs and if we are a good fit!
Hello! My name is Sherie and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 25 years of experience working within the mental health field. I'm passionate about partnering with you to identify and address what is getting in the way of living the life that you imagine for yourself! The majority of my practice focuses on individuals who are navigating the impacts of trauma, anxiety and panic disorders, relationship issues, and bipolar disorders. I offer a free consultation to explore your individual needs and if we are a good fit!
(207) 481-4076 View (207) 481-4076
Photo of Vincent Carrier, LPCC
Vincent Carrier
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04103
In addition, I work with traumatic mood disorders, bipolar disorders, depressive disorder, anxiety and explosive disorders.
Vincent Carrier MS, LCPC As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to understand how the past, whether family, relationships, traumatic events become the obstacles that prevent you from achieving YOUR goals. My efforts are focused on helping you recognize and understand how the mind collects, stores and uses this historical information. We work together to reduce and/or remove past issues, those obstacles that prevent you from having a happier, more fulfilled life. We work to develop coping strategies such as mindfulness and others.
In addition, I work with traumatic mood disorders, bipolar disorders, depressive disorder, anxiety and explosive disorders.
Vincent Carrier MS, LCPC As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to understand how the past, whether family, relationships, traumatic events become the obstacles that prevent you from achieving YOUR goals. My efforts are focused on helping you recognize and understand how the mind collects, stores and uses this historical information. We work together to reduce and/or remove past issues, those obstacles that prevent you from having a happier, more fulfilled life. We work to develop coping strategies such as mindfulness and others.
(207) 614-0876 View (207) 614-0876
Photo of Julie Quimby - Psychology Specialists of Maine, PhD, Psychologist
Psychology Specialists of Maine
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brunswick, ME 04011
We have October openings in person and tele-health! Our intake specialists will help match you with one of our experienced and caring Maine psychologist with whom you can begin your journey toward meaningful change. We are a local, women-owned therapy center offering specialized therapy for anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, OCD, bipolar, grief, eating disorders, personality disorders, health concerns, chronic pain and illness, sleep problems, relationship concerns, and couples counseling. Please visit our website to learn more about our services.
We have October openings in person and tele-health! Our intake specialists will help match you with one of our experienced and caring Maine psychologist with whom you can begin your journey toward meaningful change. We are a local, women-owned therapy center offering specialized therapy for anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, OCD, bipolar, grief, eating disorders, personality disorders, health concerns, chronic pain and illness, sleep problems, relationship concerns, and couples counseling. Please visit our website to learn more about our services.
(207) 747-3311 View (207) 747-3311
Photo of Barbara Hester - Barbara Hester LCPC/ Caring Counseling for You, LCPC, Counselor
Barbara Hester LCPC/ Caring Counseling for You
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Biddeford, ME 04005
I have a lot of experience with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and regular life challenges.
Currently NOT accepting new clients. I am seeing people in person only. It always helps to get another perspective and some new ways of coping. Using techniques such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Processing technique and Narrative therapy can help in the process of self discovery and recovery.
I have a lot of experience with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and regular life challenges.
Currently NOT accepting new clients. I am seeing people in person only. It always helps to get another perspective and some new ways of coping. Using techniques such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Processing technique and Narrative therapy can help in the process of self discovery and recovery.
(207) 518-7243 View (207) 518-7243
Photo of Catherine Christy Leschey, MSW, PsyD, Psychologist
Catherine Christy Leschey
Psychologist, MSW, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101
Trauma, PTSD, eating disorders, anxiety, and bipolar disorder are some of my specialties.
The most important aspect of my work as a therapist is the relationship between therapist and client. This allows the therapuetic alliance to be formed. My focus is on teaching adults and seniors new coping skills and life skills to help alleviate their symptoms of depression, anxiety, fears or phobias. I also help people who are struggling with traumatic memories using EMDR as a treatment modality. I have been trained in cognitive-behavioral therapy, teaching one to change existing thought processes thus leading to positive thinking and coping skills. I use a holistic bio-psycho-social model which incorporates mindfulness therapy using relaxation techniques.
Trauma, PTSD, eating disorders, anxiety, and bipolar disorder are some of my specialties.
The most important aspect of my work as a therapist is the relationship between therapist and client. This allows the therapuetic alliance to be formed. My focus is on teaching adults and seniors new coping skills and life skills to help alleviate their symptoms of depression, anxiety, fears or phobias. I also help people who are struggling with traumatic memories using EMDR as a treatment modality. I have been trained in cognitive-behavioral therapy, teaching one to change existing thought processes thus leading to positive thinking and coping skills. I use a holistic bio-psycho-social model which incorporates mindfulness therapy using relaxation techniques.
(207) 400-9067 View (207) 400-9067
Photo of Chelsey Tobey, LCSW, LADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chelsey Tobey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LADC
Verified Verified
Augusta, ME 04330  (Online Only)
LCSW/LADC - Person in Recovery/lived experience. Primary experience working with diagnoses of Bipolar, Anxiety, PTSD, personality disorders, and addiction issues. I have also worked with many people involved in systems (courts, CPS) and those living in poverty. I look to hold people accountable but to also support them in moving forward in their own lives- however that may look. YOU are the expert of your experiences and only you can choose the direction you want to go in life. I only hope to empower and partner with you to find the peace and fulfillment we all desire.
LCSW/LADC - Person in Recovery/lived experience. Primary experience working with diagnoses of Bipolar, Anxiety, PTSD, personality disorders, and addiction issues. I have also worked with many people involved in systems (courts, CPS) and those living in poverty. I look to hold people accountable but to also support them in moving forward in their own lives- however that may look. YOU are the expert of your experiences and only you can choose the direction you want to go in life. I only hope to empower and partner with you to find the peace and fulfillment we all desire.
(207) 204-3596 View (207) 204-3596
Photo of Thomas Lusth, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Thomas Lusth
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Damariscotta, ME 04543
Throughout my career, I have worked with adults and elders in coping with severe and persistent mental illnesses, anxiety and depression, bipolar d/o, anger, and other struggles. Our focus will be on processing the varied challenges of your life, and identifying effective coping skills, and symptom-reduction strategies. My life has been a lifelong learning experience and it has been a joy being a part of the lives of others. My varied experience includes having worked on a psychiatric inpatient unit for 5 years and in various community mental health settings for the last 32 years.
Throughout my career, I have worked with adults and elders in coping with severe and persistent mental illnesses, anxiety and depression, bipolar d/o, anger, and other struggles. Our focus will be on processing the varied challenges of your life, and identifying effective coping skills, and symptom-reduction strategies. My life has been a lifelong learning experience and it has been a joy being a part of the lives of others. My varied experience includes having worked on a psychiatric inpatient unit for 5 years and in various community mental health settings for the last 32 years.
(207) 882-6594 View (207) 882-6594
Photo of Fredericka Grunhuvd, MSW,  LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Fredericka Grunhuvd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brunswick, ME 04011
She is passionate about supporting clients through grief, depression, and PTSD/trauma, and has clinical experience helping those with school avoidance and bipolar disorder.
Freddie Grunhuvd, LCSW, is a compassionate and skilled therapist at LifeStance Health, who has been dedicated to serving individuals and families across Maine since 2007. Freddie excels in building strong connections and rapport with her clients, providing a supportive and challenging environment that fosters growth and healing. Her relatable approach and extensive experience make her particularly adept at working with children, adolescents, and young adults.
She is passionate about supporting clients through grief, depression, and PTSD/trauma, and has clinical experience helping those with school avoidance and bipolar disorder.
Freddie Grunhuvd, LCSW, is a compassionate and skilled therapist at LifeStance Health, who has been dedicated to serving individuals and families across Maine since 2007. Freddie excels in building strong connections and rapport with her clients, providing a supportive and challenging environment that fosters growth and healing. Her relatable approach and extensive experience make her particularly adept at working with children, adolescents, and young adults.
(207) 389-7556 View (207) 389-7556
Photo of Cindy J Daniels, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cindy J Daniels
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kennebunk, ME 04043
I have expertise treating people with depression, anxiety, trauma, and bipolar spectrum.
Congratulations on taking this step toward feeling good. Therapy is not one stop shopping. We are all individuals with different needs and motivations. I believe therapy works when the right fit is found with your counselor, allowing a relationship that is safe and trustworthy. I will work with you to design a plan that applies integrative therapies to address your current goals. I offer psychotherapy to individual adults. I also offer pre-marital counseling to couples. My office is located in private, easily accessed location in Kennebunk , and I strive to provide a safe, peaceful and comfortable environment.
I have expertise treating people with depression, anxiety, trauma, and bipolar spectrum.
Congratulations on taking this step toward feeling good. Therapy is not one stop shopping. We are all individuals with different needs and motivations. I believe therapy works when the right fit is found with your counselor, allowing a relationship that is safe and trustworthy. I will work with you to design a plan that applies integrative therapies to address your current goals. I offer psychotherapy to individual adults. I also offer pre-marital counseling to couples. My office is located in private, easily accessed location in Kennebunk , and I strive to provide a safe, peaceful and comfortable environment.
(207) 229-8819 View (207) 229-8819
Photo of Linda Thorn, LCPC, Counselor
Linda Thorn
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Casco, ME 04015
I am open to working on the various stumbling blocks that come along in life, and I’ve had particularly strong experience with: Life Transitions, Grief, Anxiety, PTSD, Depression, Relationship Concerns, Living with Chronic Pain, HIV, Living with Bipolar I and II, LGBTQ Concerns, and Gender Considerations.
I see the development of relationships with my clients as the most important element of therapeutic work. From there, with growing trust and a common goal, all things seem possible. I am comfortable using modalities including CBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Person-Centered Therapy to help my clients get what they want from their therapeutic work.
I am open to working on the various stumbling blocks that come along in life, and I’ve had particularly strong experience with: Life Transitions, Grief, Anxiety, PTSD, Depression, Relationship Concerns, Living with Chronic Pain, HIV, Living with Bipolar I and II, LGBTQ Concerns, and Gender Considerations.
I see the development of relationships with my clients as the most important element of therapeutic work. From there, with growing trust and a common goal, all things seem possible. I am comfortable using modalities including CBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Person-Centered Therapy to help my clients get what they want from their therapeutic work.
(207) 803-6137 View (207) 803-6137
Photo of Annie Pendygraft, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Annie Pendygraft
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kingfield, ME 04947
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy working with individuals struggling with major mental health issues including bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.
I am a psychotherapist practicing in Oregon and Maine. I specialize in working with adults recovering from trauma. I practice EMDR as well as somatic-based processing. I specialize in grief, trauma, anxiety, and improving cognitive and athletic performance. As a part of my sports-based trauma work, I offer Peak Performance coaching. In addition, I have over 15 years of experience working with individuals with major mental health concerns including bipolar disorder and psychosis. I am currently providing both in person and telehealth appointments.
I enjoy working with individuals struggling with major mental health issues including bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.
I am a psychotherapist practicing in Oregon and Maine. I specialize in working with adults recovering from trauma. I practice EMDR as well as somatic-based processing. I specialize in grief, trauma, anxiety, and improving cognitive and athletic performance. As a part of my sports-based trauma work, I offer Peak Performance coaching. In addition, I have over 15 years of experience working with individuals with major mental health concerns including bipolar disorder and psychosis. I am currently providing both in person and telehealth appointments.
(207) 370-4280 View (207) 370-4280
Photo of Danielle Austin, LCPC, CCS, NCC, Counselor
Danielle Austin
Counselor, LCPC, CCS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04101  (Online Only)
Accepting clients! I work with adults who are struggling with PTSD/trauma, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, and several other mental health disorders to navigate life's daily challenges, and interpersonal relationships and to find healing and growth. I will help you navigate and overcome your current struggles, challenge your internal values and belief systems, and provide a safe and judgment-free space so you can heal. I am also a Certified Clinical Supervisor with the Maine Board of Alcohol & Drug Counselors and am offering clinical supervision to conditionally licensed LMSW-CC and LCPC-CC individuals in the state of Maine.
Accepting clients! I work with adults who are struggling with PTSD/trauma, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, and several other mental health disorders to navigate life's daily challenges, and interpersonal relationships and to find healing and growth. I will help you navigate and overcome your current struggles, challenge your internal values and belief systems, and provide a safe and judgment-free space so you can heal. I am also a Certified Clinical Supervisor with the Maine Board of Alcohol & Drug Counselors and am offering clinical supervision to conditionally licensed LMSW-CC and LCPC-CC individuals in the state of Maine.
(207) 466-6436 View (207) 466-6436
Photo of Theresa Simpson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Theresa Simpson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04101
Theresa Simpson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Maine who has been practicing since 1998. She has a Master's degree in Social Work from Boston University. Theresa is trained in CBT for insomnia which she really enjoys treating. Other areas of strength include anxiety, aging issues, caregiver stress, and grief. While these areas are her passions, Theresa can provide treatment for depression, and other concerns as they arise. Theresa brings humor and laughter as appropriate as she believes laughter is a healing agent. She also believes faith is a powerful tool in one's healing process.
Theresa Simpson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Maine who has been practicing since 1998. She has a Master's degree in Social Work from Boston University. Theresa is trained in CBT for insomnia which she really enjoys treating. Other areas of strength include anxiety, aging issues, caregiver stress, and grief. While these areas are her passions, Theresa can provide treatment for depression, and other concerns as they arise. Theresa brings humor and laughter as appropriate as she believes laughter is a healing agent. She also believes faith is a powerful tool in one's healing process.
(207) 825-2585 View (207) 825-2585

Nearby Bipolar Disorder Therapists Searches for Lovell

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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.