Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Philadelphia, PA

Photo of Amanda Large, Psychologist in Philadelphia, PA
Amanda Large
Psychologist, CAADC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19122  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with clients who struggle with co-occurring disorders, Bipolar Disorders, and substance use disorders.
I work alongside my clients to help them feel seen and heard, achieve their goals, and live their best possible lives. It is very important to me that I provide a place that feels safe, nonjudgmental, and supportive, which is the foundation of therapy and helps facilitate change. The goals that people work on in therapy can involve anything that is important to them- learning healthier ways to express anger, finding new ways to cope with the effects of past traumas, stabilizing mood episodes (e.g., mania, depression), maintaining and establishing sobriety, improving their relationship with themself and others, and more.
I specialize in working with clients who struggle with co-occurring disorders, Bipolar Disorders, and substance use disorders.
I work alongside my clients to help them feel seen and heard, achieve their goals, and live their best possible lives. It is very important to me that I provide a place that feels safe, nonjudgmental, and supportive, which is the foundation of therapy and helps facilitate change. The goals that people work on in therapy can involve anything that is important to them- learning healthier ways to express anger, finding new ways to cope with the effects of past traumas, stabilizing mood episodes (e.g., mania, depression), maintaining and establishing sobriety, improving their relationship with themself and others, and more.
(215) 607-2950 View (215) 607-2950
Photo of Philip Jaisohn Counseling Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Philip Jaisohn Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19126
We have experience treating clients with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, educational issues, and eating disorders.
We want to welcome clients who might be new to therapy but have struggled for a long time with depression, anxiety, family conflict or other mental health issues. You might have avoided therapy because of stigma or misconceptions. You feel overwhelmed at times and feel that now is the time to seek help. We can speak to anyone living in New Jersey and Pennsylvania through the convenience of tele-therapy. We have English and Korean speaking therapists who are compassionate and want to make therapy a comfortable experience for you.
We have experience treating clients with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, educational issues, and eating disorders.
We want to welcome clients who might be new to therapy but have struggled for a long time with depression, anxiety, family conflict or other mental health issues. You might have avoided therapy because of stigma or misconceptions. You feel overwhelmed at times and feel that now is the time to seek help. We can speak to anyone living in New Jersey and Pennsylvania through the convenience of tele-therapy. We have English and Korean speaking therapists who are compassionate and want to make therapy a comfortable experience for you.
(844) 982-2464 View (844) 982-2464
Photo of Ben Goldstein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Ben Goldstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19143  (Online Only)
I have supported people who struggle with many different forms of mental distress, including bipolar disorder, psychosis, depression and anxiety, as well as difficulties navigating life transitions and relationship issues.
Therapy is a place to get curious about areas in your life where you might feel stuck, depressed, or isolated. In our work together, I strive to create a space that builds capacity for you to change by exploring your relationships, both past and present. I hope to support you in arriving at a deeper sense of connection to the world around you and the people in it.
I have supported people who struggle with many different forms of mental distress, including bipolar disorder, psychosis, depression and anxiety, as well as difficulties navigating life transitions and relationship issues.
Therapy is a place to get curious about areas in your life where you might feel stuck, depressed, or isolated. In our work together, I strive to create a space that builds capacity for you to change by exploring your relationships, both past and present. I hope to support you in arriving at a deeper sense of connection to the world around you and the people in it.
(267) 263-7336 View (267) 263-7336
Photo of Elle Schwan Avery, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Elle Schwan Avery
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
I have worked with clients on a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, ADD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, etc.
After over 20 years of experience working with clients, I have come to view myself as my clients' guide through the emotional landscape of their lives. I am dedicated to providing my clients with a comfortable, safe, non-judgmental, therapeutic environment in which they can explore their thoughts, feelings and behaviors. Together we form a partnership to determine the direction required for a client's healing, healthy emotional growth, and successful life functioning. Client's value my down to earth and easy to talk to style, free of intimidation and judgment.
I have worked with clients on a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, ADD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, etc.
After over 20 years of experience working with clients, I have come to view myself as my clients' guide through the emotional landscape of their lives. I am dedicated to providing my clients with a comfortable, safe, non-judgmental, therapeutic environment in which they can explore their thoughts, feelings and behaviors. Together we form a partnership to determine the direction required for a client's healing, healthy emotional growth, and successful life functioning. Client's value my down to earth and easy to talk to style, free of intimidation and judgment.
(610) 810-1870 View (610) 810-1870
Photo of Carolyn Weimer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Carolyn Weimer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19154  (Online Only)
Struggling with trauma, PTSD, or bipolar disorder? Your mental health is my priority. You're seeking support to manage these conditions, improve your mental health, and find stability. I'm here to help you achieve your goals and lead a fulfilling life.
Struggling with trauma, PTSD, or bipolar disorder? Your mental health is my priority. You're seeking support to manage these conditions, improve your mental health, and find stability. I'm here to help you achieve your goals and lead a fulfilling life.
(412) 923-0121 View (412) 923-0121
Photo of Season Apple, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Season Apple
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I have specific experience in treating Autism, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, relationship issues, anxiety disorders and can treat children as young as 3, adolescents, couples and adults.
I have a special interest in the family system and how that affects each individual. This includes psychotherapeutic treatment of couples, parents and their children. My goal going into each session with my clients is to help them feel, think and act more positively and have an overall improved quality of life than when they originally came to see me. The therapeutic relationship is one of the most important things when engaging in the counseling process which means my primary focus is to aid my clients in handling stress and daily challenges. It can be difficult but with my support it is absolutely attainable.
I have specific experience in treating Autism, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, relationship issues, anxiety disorders and can treat children as young as 3, adolescents, couples and adults.
I have a special interest in the family system and how that affects each individual. This includes psychotherapeutic treatment of couples, parents and their children. My goal going into each session with my clients is to help them feel, think and act more positively and have an overall improved quality of life than when they originally came to see me. The therapeutic relationship is one of the most important things when engaging in the counseling process which means my primary focus is to aid my clients in handling stress and daily challenges. It can be difficult but with my support it is absolutely attainable.
(484) 838-6691 View (484) 838-6691
Photo of Trinity Creations Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Trinity Creations Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19121  (Online Only)
Hello, My name is Shereema Molette and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania and New Jersey. I have been a therapist for 15 years working in numerous settings in the human service field. I have worked with children and adults addressing various issues and concerns. I currently work at non-profit supervising therapists that work in the Philadelphia School District. My passion has always been to help others and I feel fulfilled working in the field of psychology. My expertise spans many different areas but my true passion is working with children and adults as they navigate Bipolar Disorder and other clas
Hello, My name is Shereema Molette and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania and New Jersey. I have been a therapist for 15 years working in numerous settings in the human service field. I have worked with children and adults addressing various issues and concerns. I currently work at non-profit supervising therapists that work in the Philadelphia School District. My passion has always been to help others and I feel fulfilled working in the field of psychology. My expertise spans many different areas but my true passion is working with children and adults as they navigate Bipolar Disorder and other clas
(856) 245-2316 View (856) 245-2316
Photo of Liz DiNardo, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Liz DiNardo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19104  (Online Only)
Welcome! If you are here, I can imagine you are struggling with something in your life. It can be really anxiety provoking to reach out and start therapy. I’m glad you are here and I’m happy to help you walk through any struggle or issue you are going through. I’ve worked with a variety of clients that have experienced anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, substance abuse/addiction, anger management, psychosis, trauma & abuse, stress management and relationship concerns. All of my sessions are currently virtual.
Welcome! If you are here, I can imagine you are struggling with something in your life. It can be really anxiety provoking to reach out and start therapy. I’m glad you are here and I’m happy to help you walk through any struggle or issue you are going through. I’ve worked with a variety of clients that have experienced anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, substance abuse/addiction, anger management, psychosis, trauma & abuse, stress management and relationship concerns. All of my sessions are currently virtual.
(570) 512-5984 View (570) 512-5984
Photo of Voyage Healing PC: A Ketamine Clinic in Philadelphia, PA
Voyage Healing PC: A Ketamine Clinic
MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19129
Voyage Healing offers ketamine therapy for those looking for alternative ways to treat depression, anxiety, PTSD, addiction, bipolar depression, OCD and other forms of suffering. We are able to combine ketamine with psychotherapy for those interested in ketamine assisted psychotherapy. We also offer IV infusions, intramuscular ketamine injections, and Spravato. If you are looking for mental health providers who are experts in ketamine, call us for a free 15 min consultation.
Voyage Healing offers ketamine therapy for those looking for alternative ways to treat depression, anxiety, PTSD, addiction, bipolar depression, OCD and other forms of suffering. We are able to combine ketamine with psychotherapy for those interested in ketamine assisted psychotherapy. We also offer IV infusions, intramuscular ketamine injections, and Spravato. If you are looking for mental health providers who are experts in ketamine, call us for a free 15 min consultation.
(215) 770-3096 View (215) 770-3096
Photo of Jill Scott, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Jill Scott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19146
While I consider myself to be a versatile therapist, much of my work is focused on the needs of adolescents and young adults experiencing symptoms of depression and anxiety as well as individuals experiencing or considering life transitions. I have received post-graduate training in treating children, adults and families experiencing bereavement and individuals diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. My approach is best described as client-centered, but I utilize the theories and strategies of cognitive behavioral therapy, family systems therapy and narrative therapy in my work.
While I consider myself to be a versatile therapist, much of my work is focused on the needs of adolescents and young adults experiencing symptoms of depression and anxiety as well as individuals experiencing or considering life transitions. I have received post-graduate training in treating children, adults and families experiencing bereavement and individuals diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. My approach is best described as client-centered, but I utilize the theories and strategies of cognitive behavioral therapy, family systems therapy and narrative therapy in my work.
(215) 486-0382 View (215) 486-0382
Photo of Diana Wolovnick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Diana Wolovnick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
I specialize in mood disorders (such as depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder), relationship and peer issues, grief and loss and stressful life transitions.
Often people find themselves to be stuck or unhappy and they don't know how they got there. Or maybe there is a specific problem you're dealing with and you need an outside perspective and unbiased help working through it and getting back to a more comfortable and productive place. Sometimes it's helpful to just have a safe space to share what's going on inside your head. I consider therapy a natural and helpful extension of your regular daily life. My hope is that sessions with me are conversations and explorations into what you think about and what you want for yourself and your relationships.
I specialize in mood disorders (such as depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder), relationship and peer issues, grief and loss and stressful life transitions.
Often people find themselves to be stuck or unhappy and they don't know how they got there. Or maybe there is a specific problem you're dealing with and you need an outside perspective and unbiased help working through it and getting back to a more comfortable and productive place. Sometimes it's helpful to just have a safe space to share what's going on inside your head. I consider therapy a natural and helpful extension of your regular daily life. My hope is that sessions with me are conversations and explorations into what you think about and what you want for yourself and your relationships.
(516) 495-9998 View (516) 495-9998
Photo of Kendra McKee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Kendra McKee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
I have primarily worked with individuals diagnosed with depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, sleep behavior problems, grief/loss, adjustment disorders, as well as seasonal affective disorder.
My name is Kendra and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Pennsylvania with experience providing individual and group therapy. Since graduating with my Masters of Social Work in 2010, I have worked in a variety of settings. These settings have included traditional outpatient clinics, schools, inpatient psychiatric hospital, and in a primary care clinic.
I have primarily worked with individuals diagnosed with depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, sleep behavior problems, grief/loss, adjustment disorders, as well as seasonal affective disorder.
My name is Kendra and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Pennsylvania with experience providing individual and group therapy. Since graduating with my Masters of Social Work in 2010, I have worked in a variety of settings. These settings have included traditional outpatient clinics, schools, inpatient psychiatric hospital, and in a primary care clinic.
(484) 897-6317 View (484) 897-6317
Photo of Kealsey McNeil, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Kealsey McNeil
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19143  (Online Only)
I am a passionate therapist whose mission is to help you to achieve emotional wellness. As a licensed clinical social worker, I’ve practiced therapy for over 7 years in a variety of settings. My therapeutic treatment modalities include Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Prolonged Exposure and Solution Focused Brief Therapy with an understanding of choosing from eclectic, appropriate modalities to meet the client’s needs. I have experience treating a wide variety of mental health diagnoses including: anxiety, depression, trauma, and bipolar disorder and substance abuse.
I am a passionate therapist whose mission is to help you to achieve emotional wellness. As a licensed clinical social worker, I’ve practiced therapy for over 7 years in a variety of settings. My therapeutic treatment modalities include Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Prolonged Exposure and Solution Focused Brief Therapy with an understanding of choosing from eclectic, appropriate modalities to meet the client’s needs. I have experience treating a wide variety of mental health diagnoses including: anxiety, depression, trauma, and bipolar disorder and substance abuse.
(215) 883-4896 View (215) 883-4896
Photo of Carly Geis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Carly Geis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, MS, NCC, CAADC, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19128  (Online Only)
I have experience working with adults navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, domestic violence, intimate partner violence, substance use/addiction, eating disorders, and personality disorders. My goal is to help my clients identify their mental health goals and support them with compassionate and empathetic therapy techniques. While I may be an expert in the clinical sense, my clients are experts in themselves, so therapy is a collaborative experience with me!
I have experience working with adults navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, domestic violence, intimate partner violence, substance use/addiction, eating disorders, and personality disorders. My goal is to help my clients identify their mental health goals and support them with compassionate and empathetic therapy techniques. While I may be an expert in the clinical sense, my clients are experts in themselves, so therapy is a collaborative experience with me!
(215) 330-5119 View (215) 330-5119
Photo of Jean Campbell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Jean Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I have experience working with adults and adolescents diagnosed with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder and Schizophrenia.
As a therapist I meet you where you are in life and join with you for a time on your journey to self-improvement. On this journey, it is so important to feel heard. Therapy is about being heard and empowering you to use your voice to be the person you want to be and to lead the life you want to lead. I listen deeply as we work together to identify and meet your therapeutic goals. I believe the environment is a part of the whole person that impacts one’s emotional, mental and physical well-being and needs to be considered in therapy. I invite your feedback regarding what is working and not working for you in our therapy sessions.
I have experience working with adults and adolescents diagnosed with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder and Schizophrenia.
As a therapist I meet you where you are in life and join with you for a time on your journey to self-improvement. On this journey, it is so important to feel heard. Therapy is about being heard and empowering you to use your voice to be the person you want to be and to lead the life you want to lead. I listen deeply as we work together to identify and meet your therapeutic goals. I believe the environment is a part of the whole person that impacts one’s emotional, mental and physical well-being and needs to be considered in therapy. I invite your feedback regarding what is working and not working for you in our therapy sessions.
(610) 609-2958 View (610) 609-2958
Photo of Angelo Rannazzisi, Psychologist in Philadelphia, PA
Angelo Rannazzisi
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Provider within Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates, a network of over 20 Psychiatrists, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners and Psychotherapists offering in-office psychiatric evaluations, medication management and psychotherapy in Philadelphia and on The Main Line, and Virtual Telehealth Psychiatric Appointments to patients in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania and Florida. Treatment for Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder and ADHD. Call to see which providers are licensed in your location.
Provider within Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates, a network of over 20 Psychiatrists, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners and Psychotherapists offering in-office psychiatric evaluations, medication management and psychotherapy in Philadelphia and on The Main Line, and Virtual Telehealth Psychiatric Appointments to patients in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania and Florida. Treatment for Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder and ADHD. Call to see which providers are licensed in your location.
(484) 261-1263 View (484) 261-1263
Photo of Lighthouse Therapy Associates, Psychologist in Philadelphia, PA
Lighthouse Therapy Associates
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19109
We are also skilled at working with people with psychotic and bipolar disorders.
Our therapists strive to create a non-judgmental and compassionate space to offer guidance and help create change. We offer both shorter term solution-focused therapy as well as longer term in-depth psychotherapy depending on your individual needs. Our goal is to help you uncover your true potential and understand yourself better, leading to symptom reduction and lasting change.
We are also skilled at working with people with psychotic and bipolar disorders.
Our therapists strive to create a non-judgmental and compassionate space to offer guidance and help create change. We offer both shorter term solution-focused therapy as well as longer term in-depth psychotherapy depending on your individual needs. Our goal is to help you uncover your true potential and understand yourself better, leading to symptom reduction and lasting change.
(267) 209-6615 View (267) 209-6615
Photo of Innovatel Medical, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Innovatel Medical
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19109  (Online Only)
Our multidisciplinary team of highly skilled psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, therapists, care coordinators and care managers offer compassionate, personalized care including therapy and medication management to meet the unique needs of individuals including stress, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, sleep difficulties, trauma, PTSD and many more.
At Innovatel Medical our expert team of providers bring tailored mental wellness right to your home via telehealth. Your behavioral health needs are specific to you, and your care should be, too. From therapy services to medication assistance and prescribing, our accessible virtual services are your passport to a happier, healthier you – all from the comfort of your home. Don't let your mental health struggles hold you back; let us help guide you through your own unique journey of success and well-being.
Our multidisciplinary team of highly skilled psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, therapists, care coordinators and care managers offer compassionate, personalized care including therapy and medication management to meet the unique needs of individuals including stress, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, sleep difficulties, trauma, PTSD and many more.
At Innovatel Medical our expert team of providers bring tailored mental wellness right to your home via telehealth. Your behavioral health needs are specific to you, and your care should be, too. From therapy services to medication assistance and prescribing, our accessible virtual services are your passport to a happier, healthier you – all from the comfort of your home. Don't let your mental health struggles hold you back; let us help guide you through your own unique journey of success and well-being.
(267) 490-3963 View (267) 490-3963
Photo of Janet Montgomery, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Janet Montgomery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
I have years of experience working with adults struggling with mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, mood disorder, binge eating disorder, bipolar disorder, addiction, and PTSD.
Hello, my name is Janet. My mission is to support others on their journey to leading a healthy, rewarding life to their fullest potential. Life gets complicated at times, and everyone can benefit from working with a therapist at one point or another.
I have years of experience working with adults struggling with mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, mood disorder, binge eating disorder, bipolar disorder, addiction, and PTSD.
Hello, my name is Janet. My mission is to support others on their journey to leading a healthy, rewarding life to their fullest potential. Life gets complicated at times, and everyone can benefit from working with a therapist at one point or another.
(484) 702-3023 View (484) 702-3023
Photo of Sarah Valdivieso, Marriage & Family Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Sarah Valdivieso
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Valdivieso has experience working with children and families utilizing trauma focused therapy and adults coping with anxiety, depression, bipolar, addiction, trauma, and life transitions.
Sarah Valdivieso is an empathetic Marriage and Family Therapist who respects each client’s unique and individual journey and capacity for resiliency. From a systemic and strength-based lens, Ms. Valdivieso works with her clients to help them to be better able to balance acceptance with change as they create more manageable and meaningful lives. Ms. Valdivieso supports clients in removing the obstacles that block them emotionally and in relationships by helping them to heal family or other wounds from the past.
Valdivieso has experience working with children and families utilizing trauma focused therapy and adults coping with anxiety, depression, bipolar, addiction, trauma, and life transitions.
Sarah Valdivieso is an empathetic Marriage and Family Therapist who respects each client’s unique and individual journey and capacity for resiliency. From a systemic and strength-based lens, Ms. Valdivieso works with her clients to help them to be better able to balance acceptance with change as they create more manageable and meaningful lives. Ms. Valdivieso supports clients in removing the obstacles that block them emotionally and in relationships by helping them to heal family or other wounds from the past.
(484) 376-5173 x7040 View (484) 376-5173 x7040

See more therapy options for Philadelphia

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.