Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Charlotte, NC
Kathleen Marie Monforton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204
Waitlist for new clients
Is fear, anxiety, or panic preventing you from living the life you want? Are you struggling with changes in thought, behavior, or mood? If this sounds like you, I’d like to help. I have 10+ years of experience working with adults diagnosed with schizophrenia and other severe mental illnesses and I currently specialize in anxiety, bipolar disorder, & psychosis. However, I also work with clients 15 years of age and older struggling with depression, perfectionism, distress tolerance, substance use, life changes, stress management, dating, or just “adulting”. I offer sessions virtually and in person in Elizabeth area of Charlotte.
Is fear, anxiety, or panic preventing you from living the life you want? Are you struggling with changes in thought, behavior, or mood? If this sounds like you, I’d like to help. I have 10+ years of experience working with adults diagnosed with schizophrenia and other severe mental illnesses and I currently specialize in anxiety, bipolar disorder, & psychosis. However, I also work with clients 15 years of age and older struggling with depression, perfectionism, distress tolerance, substance use, life changes, stress management, dating, or just “adulting”. I offer sessions virtually and in person in Elizabeth area of Charlotte.
Jessica L. Massey, LCSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226
I provide individual therapy for disorders which include depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder and attention deficit disorder. I see a range of ages, from adolescents to adults.
I provide individual therapy for disorders which include depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder and attention deficit disorder. I see a range of ages, from adolescents to adults.
David K. Massey, MSW, LCSW, BCD
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28211
I'm a directive and empowering therapist with over 30 years of experience. I provide individual and couples therapy for people suffering with depression, bipolar and other mood disorders using a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as well as other treatment modalities.
I'm a directive and empowering therapist with over 30 years of experience. I provide individual and couples therapy for people suffering with depression, bipolar and other mood disorders using a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as well as other treatment modalities.
Anna Lanier-Comar
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28202 (Online Only)
I have been practicing in the mental health field for 17 years. I served in the Air Force Reserves for 8 years as a Mental Health Technician while earning my MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I completed the requirements for Licensure while working at an inpatient Eating Disorder Facility in North Carolina. I have been practicing as a Licensed Therapist since 2017. Most of my professional experience is in treating Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, Borderline personality disorder and Eating disorders. I use a few different modalities in therapy.
I have been practicing in the mental health field for 17 years. I served in the Air Force Reserves for 8 years as a Mental Health Technician while earning my MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I completed the requirements for Licensure while working at an inpatient Eating Disorder Facility in North Carolina. I have been practicing as a Licensed Therapist since 2017. Most of my professional experience is in treating Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, Borderline personality disorder and Eating disorders. I use a few different modalities in therapy.
Well3Plus Collaborative Care
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28203
I specialize in helping people who experience symptoms related to disorders, like: Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, Bipolar, PTSD, Depression and more, live more productive lives.
Do you struggle with serious mental illness & psychosis? Are you dealing with the effects of trauma? Are you having difficulty balancing roles & responsibilities? Are you experiencing instability, stress, anxiety & more? Don’t give up on yourself, you deserve much more and I would be honored to partner with you on your journey upward. With therapy, intensive case management & skill building, I will work with you to manage symptoms, sort through difficult feelings, organize your life & connect with community resources to increase your independence & self-reliance.
I specialize in helping people who experience symptoms related to disorders, like: Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, Bipolar, PTSD, Depression and more, live more productive lives.
Do you struggle with serious mental illness & psychosis? Are you dealing with the effects of trauma? Are you having difficulty balancing roles & responsibilities? Are you experiencing instability, stress, anxiety & more? Don’t give up on yourself, you deserve much more and I would be honored to partner with you on your journey upward. With therapy, intensive case management & skill building, I will work with you to manage symptoms, sort through difficult feelings, organize your life & connect with community resources to increase your independence & self-reliance.
Clear Mind Counseling LLC
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
My experience includes treatment in a psychiatric setting for adults diagnosed with Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, and Adjustment Disorder.
The trauma of addiction touches all of us in one way or another. Recognizing how addiction impacts you physically, mentally, and spiritually can be an awesome awakening to an entirely new way of life. Often individuals suffer from the consequences of making high risk decisions that cause crisis for themselves and their families. Dealing with these consequences alone may increase the desire to continue substances and more negative consequences. Allow me shed light on how to end this vicious cycle. I am a dedicated and compassionate clinician that is committed to the well being of my clients and their families.
My experience includes treatment in a psychiatric setting for adults diagnosed with Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, and Adjustment Disorder.
The trauma of addiction touches all of us in one way or another. Recognizing how addiction impacts you physically, mentally, and spiritually can be an awesome awakening to an entirely new way of life. Often individuals suffer from the consequences of making high risk decisions that cause crisis for themselves and their families. Dealing with these consequences alone may increase the desire to continue substances and more negative consequences. Allow me shed light on how to end this vicious cycle. I am a dedicated and compassionate clinician that is committed to the well being of my clients and their families.
Yazmeen A Garcia
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA, LCASA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210 (Online Only)
I currently serve clients from ages 10-100, with my primary focus being adolescents and adults. I am a mental health counselor as well as a licensed clinical addiction specialist, meaning I love working with both mental health disorders and addictions. When working with mental health, I serve those struggling with anxiety/depression, trauma/sexual abuse, bipolar I or II disorder, dissociative-identity disorder, grief, self-esteem concerns, identity matters, religious or spiritual factors, stress management, and those on the autism spectrum. My goals for my clients are to be able to increase their sense of self-worth and autonomy.
I currently serve clients from ages 10-100, with my primary focus being adolescents and adults. I am a mental health counselor as well as a licensed clinical addiction specialist, meaning I love working with both mental health disorders and addictions. When working with mental health, I serve those struggling with anxiety/depression, trauma/sexual abuse, bipolar I or II disorder, dissociative-identity disorder, grief, self-esteem concerns, identity matters, religious or spiritual factors, stress management, and those on the autism spectrum. My goals for my clients are to be able to increase their sense of self-worth and autonomy.
Compass Life Skills and Counseling
Counselor, LCMHC, TF-CBT, BC-TMH, NCC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28269
We are proficient in treating mental health diagnosis from PTSD to Bipolar.
Life can be difficult for even the strongest person. We are an agency committed to helping you heal from devastating experiences and traumatic situations. Our therapists will help you identify, label and heal the emotional wounds that have developed. Our goal is for you to be your BEST SELF! No matter the situation, our non-judgemental approach creates a safe space for healing to take place.
We are proficient in treating mental health diagnosis from PTSD to Bipolar.
Life can be difficult for even the strongest person. We are an agency committed to helping you heal from devastating experiences and traumatic situations. Our therapists will help you identify, label and heal the emotional wounds that have developed. Our goal is for you to be your BEST SELF! No matter the situation, our non-judgemental approach creates a safe space for healing to take place.
Dr. Nikki Elyce Hozack
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28211
I primarily work with adolescents and adults and specialize in trauma, personality disorder, psychotic disorders, and bipolar disorder, as well as an anxiety and depression.
Is it time to find a new path? Life can be a difficulty journey, but you are not alone. My name is Dr. Nikki Hozack and I am here to help you navigate life's roadblocks so you can enjoy the ride.
I primarily work with adolescents and adults and specialize in trauma, personality disorder, psychotic disorders, and bipolar disorder, as well as an anxiety and depression.
Is it time to find a new path? Life can be a difficulty journey, but you are not alone. My name is Dr. Nikki Hozack and I am here to help you navigate life's roadblocks so you can enjoy the ride.
Ciarra Spruill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, LISWCP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28269 (Online Only)
Life is tough, but so are you! I am a dual licensed therapist in mental health and substance abuse and the owner of Emerge Therapy & Consulting. I understand life circumstances that negatively impact individuals mentally and emotionally. I provide diagnosis & treatment in several areas such as depression, couples therapy, anxiety, bipolar, narcissistic personality disorder and borderline personality disorder. Allow me to assist you in emerging from your inner shadow and becoming a healthier, authentic you! Remember, broken crayons still color.
Life is tough, but so are you! I am a dual licensed therapist in mental health and substance abuse and the owner of Emerge Therapy & Consulting. I understand life circumstances that negatively impact individuals mentally and emotionally. I provide diagnosis & treatment in several areas such as depression, couples therapy, anxiety, bipolar, narcissistic personality disorder and borderline personality disorder. Allow me to assist you in emerging from your inner shadow and becoming a healthier, authentic you! Remember, broken crayons still color.
Kimberly A. (Vogel) Whalen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277
I have worked with a variety of populations and culturally diverse ethnic groups managing attachment injuries, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, high functioning Autism, codependency, grief, marital/family conflict, infidelity, parenting issues, self-esteem concerns, life transitions, women/men’s issues, and day-to-day stressors.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I obtained my undergraduate degree in Clinical Psychology and graduate degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. My therapy approach is taken from an attachment theory and perspective. I believe humans are wired to feel connected, and that we all greatly benefit from healthy relationships. Without this connectedness, we may experience loneliness or isolation. I provide a safe, accepting space for individuals, couples, and families using a positive Existential Therapy Model to support self-awareness, meaningful relationships, and values of life.
I have worked with a variety of populations and culturally diverse ethnic groups managing attachment injuries, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, high functioning Autism, codependency, grief, marital/family conflict, infidelity, parenting issues, self-esteem concerns, life transitions, women/men’s issues, and day-to-day stressors.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I obtained my undergraduate degree in Clinical Psychology and graduate degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. My therapy approach is taken from an attachment theory and perspective. I believe humans are wired to feel connected, and that we all greatly benefit from healthy relationships. Without this connectedness, we may experience loneliness or isolation. I provide a safe, accepting space for individuals, couples, and families using a positive Existential Therapy Model to support self-awareness, meaningful relationships, and values of life.
15 Second Videos
Kathleen Marie Monforton
Jessica L. Massey, LCSW, PLLC
Well3Plus Collaborative Care
Compass Life Skills and Counseling
SHINE Counseling, PLLC
Veronda Bellamy
Aileen Lassiter
Integrity House Treatment Services
Elise Milagros Ruiz
Kristin Hammond
BayElla Counseling Services
Self Talk Counseling Consulting
Logan Cohen
Megan Ashley Smith
Jeff Helms
Sister WELLS Counseling, Coaching & Consulting
Alison Abbott
Art of Care Counseling
James Hanrahan
New South Counseling Group: Rachel Dunning
A. Maurice Harvey
Donna Murray
Uyen Dinh
Steffie M Beard
Mackenzie Weigel
ShiftingParadigms Counseling and Consulting, PC
Kirsten Cole
Rita L Berry
Jenna Brunner
Michelle Blankenship
Karen McKinney
Kelly Stilwell Saylor
Bonita Hutchinson and Associates, PLLC
Bethany V
Alexis J Stein
Diana Levitt
Laura Saune
Markel Limbacker
Kristen Lynn McClure
Abundant Healing LLC
Brittany C. (Ptsd Specialist)
Leah Marone
Blake Clemmons
La'Tracia S Jones
Believe Within Counseling, PLLC
Sarah Webber
Danelle Brown Holbrook
Erik Goldfield, Individual & Family Therapist
Susan MacDonald Roddey
Another Level Counseling and Consultation
Chad W Kraska
Psychologist, PsyD, HSP-P
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226
My specialty is psychological assessment/evaluations for children and adults. Areas of focus include AD/HD, Autism Spectrum Disorder (Asperger's), Anxiety Disorders, Mood Disorders (Depression and Bipolar), Schizophrenia, Learning Disorders, Disruptive Behavior Disorders (e.g. Oppositional Defiant and Conduct Disorder) and Personality Disorders (e.g. Borderline). I provide IQ testing for school readiness (CAIS testing) and educational evaluations identifying specific learning disorders (e.g. SLD's in reading, writing and math). Additionally, I provide therapeutic services for the above mentioned challenges.
My specialty is psychological assessment/evaluations for children and adults. Areas of focus include AD/HD, Autism Spectrum Disorder (Asperger's), Anxiety Disorders, Mood Disorders (Depression and Bipolar), Schizophrenia, Learning Disorders, Disruptive Behavior Disorders (e.g. Oppositional Defiant and Conduct Disorder) and Personality Disorders (e.g. Borderline). I provide IQ testing for school readiness (CAIS testing) and educational evaluations identifying specific learning disorders (e.g. SLD's in reading, writing and math). Additionally, I provide therapeutic services for the above mentioned challenges.
Shonda Fulton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, CCTP, CCS
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28273 (Online Only)
My client’s mental health needs range from depression, anxiety, PTSD, substance use, relationship issues, LGBTQ+, bipolar disorder, suicidal ideation and parent-child relationship issues.
NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! My passion is to assist individuals to become their true and authentic self. My desire is to foster healing and growth within each individual, family and couple I work with. I believe that in order to make these changes, the client and I will need to look at the complete picture of their life, taking a more holistic approach. I like to draw on their strengths in order to help implement change. I want to help my clients move beyond the troubles and stressors they have experienced in their lives and help them move towards a life worth living
My client’s mental health needs range from depression, anxiety, PTSD, substance use, relationship issues, LGBTQ+, bipolar disorder, suicidal ideation and parent-child relationship issues.
NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! My passion is to assist individuals to become their true and authentic self. My desire is to foster healing and growth within each individual, family and couple I work with. I believe that in order to make these changes, the client and I will need to look at the complete picture of their life, taking a more holistic approach. I like to draw on their strengths in order to help implement change. I want to help my clients move beyond the troubles and stressors they have experienced in their lives and help them move towards a life worth living
SHINE Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
Our experience includes working with youth, adults and families focused on mood disorders (depression, anxiety, Bipolar II), behavior modification, interpersonal development (relationships), trauma, and substance abuse.
Asking for help is an act of strength, courage, and resilience. If you or a loved one suffers from trauma, anxiety, and depression, contact us. For a faster response, please email. Negative thoughts, feelings, and self-defeating behaviors get in the way of us realizing our full potential. We facilitate the healing process needed to recover. We know that with adequate support, compassion, and insight, one can have a new lease on life. We believe in the power we have to transform and overcome minor mistakes to the most significant obstacles to live the life that we want to live, enabling peace to surface and calmness to be present.
Our experience includes working with youth, adults and families focused on mood disorders (depression, anxiety, Bipolar II), behavior modification, interpersonal development (relationships), trauma, and substance abuse.
Asking for help is an act of strength, courage, and resilience. If you or a loved one suffers from trauma, anxiety, and depression, contact us. For a faster response, please email. Negative thoughts, feelings, and self-defeating behaviors get in the way of us realizing our full potential. We facilitate the healing process needed to recover. We know that with adequate support, compassion, and insight, one can have a new lease on life. We believe in the power we have to transform and overcome minor mistakes to the most significant obstacles to live the life that we want to live, enabling peace to surface and calmness to be present.
Ashlyn Vinson
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28269
Ashlyn has experience working with adults (18+) to treat an array of concerns such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, grief/loss, etc.
Ashlyn earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at UNC-Chapel Hill and her Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at East Carolina University. She is currently licensed in both mental health and addictions counseling and enjoys learning about the ways in which the two intersect in treatment. Ashlyn's background ranges from inpatient behavioral health to outpatient medication assisted treatment (MAT).
Ashlyn has experience working with adults (18+) to treat an array of concerns such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, grief/loss, etc.
Ashlyn earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at UNC-Chapel Hill and her Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at East Carolina University. She is currently licensed in both mental health and addictions counseling and enjoys learning about the ways in which the two intersect in treatment. Ashlyn's background ranges from inpatient behavioral health to outpatient medication assisted treatment (MAT).
Kimberly D. Williams
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28204
However, Kim also has experience in treating a variety of challenges including bipolar disorder, domestic violence and depression.
For many of life’s issues, it is helpful to talk with someone within a nonjudgmental, safe environment. To be listened to and heard in a way that facilitates an understanding of what the underlying origin of the problem is in order to bring about healing. Kimberly uses the psychodynamic approach to counseling as a means to assist clients with understanding themselves more deeply. Serving adults, couples and adolescents, she collaborates with the client to address patterns and behaviors that disrupt wellbeing.
However, Kim also has experience in treating a variety of challenges including bipolar disorder, domestic violence and depression.
For many of life’s issues, it is helpful to talk with someone within a nonjudgmental, safe environment. To be listened to and heard in a way that facilitates an understanding of what the underlying origin of the problem is in order to bring about healing. Kimberly uses the psychodynamic approach to counseling as a means to assist clients with understanding themselves more deeply. Serving adults, couples and adolescents, she collaborates with the client to address patterns and behaviors that disrupt wellbeing.
Margurite Reaves
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277
Hello, my name is Margurite Reaves; I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). I approach the therapeutic process with an individualized approach. My areas of expertise include mood disorders, unhealthy attachment patterns, trauma, and conduct disorders. I have several years of experience working with adults, children/adolescence, and families in areas that include but are not limited to depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, relationship issues, adjustment issues, defiant behaviors, stress management, and trauma.
Hello, my name is Margurite Reaves; I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). I approach the therapeutic process with an individualized approach. My areas of expertise include mood disorders, unhealthy attachment patterns, trauma, and conduct disorders. I have several years of experience working with adults, children/adolescence, and families in areas that include but are not limited to depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, relationship issues, adjustment issues, defiant behaviors, stress management, and trauma.
Beighley Thornock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28262
I specialize in trauma, anxiety, and mood disorders (such as depression and bipolar).
I enjoy working with teens and adults, helping them manage the various stressors and anxieties in their lives. I also help couples and families navigate issues they may be experiencing together. I believe that through working together, we will be able to help you achieve your goals and work through the difficulties that come in your life. Always recognizing that clients are the expert of their own life experience, I strive to create a safe and supportive environment for all my clients to promote self-exploration and healing, help them grow, and empower them on their life's journey.
I specialize in trauma, anxiety, and mood disorders (such as depression and bipolar).
I enjoy working with teens and adults, helping them manage the various stressors and anxieties in their lives. I also help couples and families navigate issues they may be experiencing together. I believe that through working together, we will be able to help you achieve your goals and work through the difficulties that come in your life. Always recognizing that clients are the expert of their own life experience, I strive to create a safe and supportive environment for all my clients to promote self-exploration and healing, help them grow, and empower them on their life's journey.
Nadia Antoszyk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28209
For the past twenty one years, I have worked as a LCSW with children, adolescents adults and couples using a variety of treatment modalities. This experience comes from woring in hospitals, mental health agencies and partial hospitalizations programs. I specialize in Mood Disorders, ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorders, Trauma/abuse, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Bereavement/Grief and Mental Health Conditions(HIV/AIDS, Diabetes, and etc.) More recently, I was certified as a Parent Coordinator for the Mecklenburg Court system.
For the past twenty one years, I have worked as a LCSW with children, adolescents adults and couples using a variety of treatment modalities. This experience comes from woring in hospitals, mental health agencies and partial hospitalizations programs. I specialize in Mood Disorders, ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorders, Trauma/abuse, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Bereavement/Grief and Mental Health Conditions(HIV/AIDS, Diabetes, and etc.) More recently, I was certified as a Parent Coordinator for the Mecklenburg Court system.
Nadine Rosen
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210
I treat older adolescents, and adults who present with a variety of challenges including depression and anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, self-esteem issues, grief and loss,insomnia, trauma, relationship issues, stress and anger management, and ADD/ADHD.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, a Nationally Certified Counselor, and a Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist, who has been practicing Individual, Couple, Family and Group Therapy since 1993. I am dedicated to providing a safe and confidential therapeutic atmosphere in which I can help my client's and their families reach their goals, heal themselves, and achieve their potential. I take an eclectic and practical approach to counseling and use a variety of therapeutic techniques customized for the client so that they can be successful.
I treat older adolescents, and adults who present with a variety of challenges including depression and anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, self-esteem issues, grief and loss,insomnia, trauma, relationship issues, stress and anger management, and ADD/ADHD.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, a Nationally Certified Counselor, and a Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist, who has been practicing Individual, Couple, Family and Group Therapy since 1993. I am dedicated to providing a safe and confidential therapeutic atmosphere in which I can help my client's and their families reach their goals, heal themselves, and achieve their potential. I take an eclectic and practical approach to counseling and use a variety of therapeutic techniques customized for the client so that they can be successful.
See more therapy options for Charlotte
Nearby Bipolar Disorder Therapists Searches for Charlotte
- Belmont
- Cramerton
- Harrisburg
- Huntersville
- Indian Trail
- Matthews
- Mint Hill
- Mount Holly
- Newell
- Pineville
- Stallings
- Weddington
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.