Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Middlebury, VT

Photo of Deina K Olstad, Pre-Licensed Professional in Middlebury, VT
Deina K Olstad
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, CMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middlebury, VT 05753
Welcome. You may have arrived here seeking a sense of calm, safety, connection, confidence, clarity, motivation, or life balance. You may be grappling with difficult life transitions, relationship challenges, early parenthood, or trauma experiences that have given rise to feelings of exhaustion, sadness, isolation, fear, overwhelm, anger, or confusion. These burdens can make it hard to find joy and meaning, feel connected to loved ones, or show up in your daily life. With compassion and acceptance, I'm here to support you in healing the past, coping and thriving in the present, and taking steps towards the life you aspire to live.
Welcome. You may have arrived here seeking a sense of calm, safety, connection, confidence, clarity, motivation, or life balance. You may be grappling with difficult life transitions, relationship challenges, early parenthood, or trauma experiences that have given rise to feelings of exhaustion, sadness, isolation, fear, overwhelm, anger, or confusion. These burdens can make it hard to find joy and meaning, feel connected to loved ones, or show up in your daily life. With compassion and acceptance, I'm here to support you in healing the past, coping and thriving in the present, and taking steps towards the life you aspire to live.
(802) 278-9986 View (802) 278-9986
Photo of Nicole Litchfield, Registered Psychotherapist in Middlebury, VT
Nicole Litchfield
Registered Psychotherapist, AAP
Verified Verified
Middlebury, VT 05753
I am currently accepting new clients. My practice is client centered with the goal of creating wholeness and peace. I provide counseling services to individuals from the age of 11 through end of life. Typically, I work with folks struggling with depression, anxiety, substance use, those within the LGBTQ+ community, and folks struggling to navigate life changes. If this sounds like you, please reach out, let's see if we are a good fit!
I am currently accepting new clients. My practice is client centered with the goal of creating wholeness and peace. I provide counseling services to individuals from the age of 11 through end of life. Typically, I work with folks struggling with depression, anxiety, substance use, those within the LGBTQ+ community, and folks struggling to navigate life changes. If this sounds like you, please reach out, let's see if we are a good fit!
(802) 896-8766 View (802) 896-8766
Photo of Douglas Engel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Middlebury, VT
Douglas Engel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, LICSW, MPS, BA
Verified Verified
Middlebury, VT 05753
For the past 25 years I have worked with a wide range of clients ranging from children and adolescents to older adults. I have a post graduate degree in family therapy from the Ackerman Institute in New York City, the most respected family therapy training program in the country. Currently I work with folks 17 - 80 and particularly enjoy marriage counseling. I've helped individuals struggling with depression, anger issues, anxiety and the effects of past trauma.
For the past 25 years I have worked with a wide range of clients ranging from children and adolescents to older adults. I have a post graduate degree in family therapy from the Ackerman Institute in New York City, the most respected family therapy training program in the country. Currently I work with folks 17 - 80 and particularly enjoy marriage counseling. I've helped individuals struggling with depression, anger issues, anxiety and the effects of past trauma.
(802) 348-2136 View (802) 348-2136
Photo of Michael A. Castelli, Counselor in Middlebury, VT
Michael A. Castelli
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Middlebury, VT 05753
I offer a welcoming, compassionate, and non-judgmental space to share your story. Sometimes, problems we face — whether they come with a diagnosis or not — may be overwhelming, debilitating, paralyzing, unhealthy, or destructive to ourselves or our relationships. I work collaboratively to help people deconstruct and free themselves from the grip of problems that may be overwhelming and oppressive and move toward preferred ways of living and thriving.
I offer a welcoming, compassionate, and non-judgmental space to share your story. Sometimes, problems we face — whether they come with a diagnosis or not — may be overwhelming, debilitating, paralyzing, unhealthy, or destructive to ourselves or our relationships. I work collaboratively to help people deconstruct and free themselves from the grip of problems that may be overwhelming and oppressive and move toward preferred ways of living and thriving.
(802) 200-2736 View (802) 200-2736
Photo of Brigid Sullivan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Middlebury, VT
Brigid Sullivan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Middlebury, VT 05753  (Online Only)
Experienced and Compassionate: Brigid’s approach to therapy is based on understanding each individual/couple/family needs, and then helping to form goals and strategies for facing challenges. Brigid approaches each person through the lens of their unique experience, specializing in assisting individuals with relationship problems, parenting challenges, blended family issues, depression, anxiety, chronic and acute medical conditions, grief, loss, trauma, substance use, caregiver/helping professionals, active duty military members and their families, relationship issues, life stage transitions, and identity formation and development.
Experienced and Compassionate: Brigid’s approach to therapy is based on understanding each individual/couple/family needs, and then helping to form goals and strategies for facing challenges. Brigid approaches each person through the lens of their unique experience, specializing in assisting individuals with relationship problems, parenting challenges, blended family issues, depression, anxiety, chronic and acute medical conditions, grief, loss, trauma, substance use, caregiver/helping professionals, active duty military members and their families, relationship issues, life stage transitions, and identity formation and development.
(802) 347-9031 View (802) 347-9031
Photo of Liz Fitzgerald, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Middlebury, VT
Liz Fitzgerald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Middlebury, VT 05753  (Online Only)
It's hard being human. Whether you are living with grief, loss, emptiness, low energy, the demands of a busy world, the impacts of your uniquely complicated past, lack of focus, self-criticism, depleted inspiration, relationship challenges, chronic illness and/or disability, harms due to injustice and systematic oppression, and/or the struggle to find meaning in your life… I invite you to dock your ship in the harbor of your own presence & to seek healing and solace through the accompaniment that therapy offers. I would love to walk beside you on your journey of honoring your truth(s) and connecting to what matters most to you.
It's hard being human. Whether you are living with grief, loss, emptiness, low energy, the demands of a busy world, the impacts of your uniquely complicated past, lack of focus, self-criticism, depleted inspiration, relationship challenges, chronic illness and/or disability, harms due to injustice and systematic oppression, and/or the struggle to find meaning in your life… I invite you to dock your ship in the harbor of your own presence & to seek healing and solace through the accompaniment that therapy offers. I would love to walk beside you on your journey of honoring your truth(s) and connecting to what matters most to you.
(802) 494-4829 View (802) 494-4829
Photo of Brandy Devino, Registered Psychotherapist in Middlebury, VT
Brandy Devino
Registered Psychotherapist, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Middlebury, VT 05753  (Online Only)
Finding balance in life can be overwhelming with contrast all around us. I am passionate about providing a safe and empowering space for individuals to be themselves. The work we do together will be intentional and geared toward self-discovery. I am dedicated to helping you connect with your inner source. Together we will explore verbal, visual and creative expression to help bring awareness to the ways in which the mind and body store and manifest negative patterns.
Finding balance in life can be overwhelming with contrast all around us. I am passionate about providing a safe and empowering space for individuals to be themselves. The work we do together will be intentional and geared toward self-discovery. I am dedicated to helping you connect with your inner source. Together we will explore verbal, visual and creative expression to help bring awareness to the ways in which the mind and body store and manifest negative patterns.
(802) 242-8291 View (802) 242-8291
Photo of Mary Marron, PsyD., Psychologist in Middlebury, VT
Mary Marron, PsyD.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middlebury, VT 05753
Not accepting new clients
I enjoy helping my clients work through the most difficult of life's challenges. I work with individuals from all walks of life, struggling with a variety of conditions and life situations. I take a collaborative approach to treatment, emphasizing personal control in therapy. My interest in psychotherapy stems from my fascination with language and communication. I have spent years researching language from the perspectives of philosophy, linguistics, and psychology. I find this research informs my style of treatment such that I have an ear that is attuned to the subtleties of communication, which many of my patients find extremely supportive.
I enjoy helping my clients work through the most difficult of life's challenges. I work with individuals from all walks of life, struggling with a variety of conditions and life situations. I take a collaborative approach to treatment, emphasizing personal control in therapy. My interest in psychotherapy stems from my fascination with language and communication. I have spent years researching language from the perspectives of philosophy, linguistics, and psychology. I find this research informs my style of treatment such that I have an ear that is attuned to the subtleties of communication, which many of my patients find extremely supportive.
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Photo of Carolyn M Dundon, Psychologist in Middlebury, VT
Carolyn M Dundon
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Middlebury, VT 05753
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in treating difficulties with anxiety, OCD, depression, mood regulation, & trauma in adults. I also treat couples/relationship issues, & sexual concerns. My theoretical orientation emphasizes mindfulness-based & cognitive therapies & integrates principles from contemporary psychodynamic/existential therapies. In my work I am inspired by the human potential for psychological flexibility, behavioral change, & greater self-understanding. My research in women's sexuality has informed my comfort with sexual concerns, while my studies in Buddhist philosophy strengthen my implementation of mindfulness-based therapies.
I specialize in treating difficulties with anxiety, OCD, depression, mood regulation, & trauma in adults. I also treat couples/relationship issues, & sexual concerns. My theoretical orientation emphasizes mindfulness-based & cognitive therapies & integrates principles from contemporary psychodynamic/existential therapies. In my work I am inspired by the human potential for psychological flexibility, behavioral change, & greater self-understanding. My research in women's sexuality has informed my comfort with sexual concerns, while my studies in Buddhist philosophy strengthen my implementation of mindfulness-based therapies.
(802) 536-4522 View (802) 536-4522

Online Therapists

Photo of Reem Koinis, Counselor in Middlebury, VT
Reem Koinis
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCPC, MHC
Verified Verified
Williston, VT 05495  (Online Only)
She has treated a variety of disorders and issues, such as: Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Personality Disorders, PTSD, Grief and Bereavement, Adjustment issues, Relationship issues, Conduct and Impulse-Control Disorders, Substance-related Disorders, and problems/issues related to social, personal, cultural stressors as well as Refugee resettlement related issues.
Reem Koinis, LCMHC is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC - Vermont) practicing in Vermont, a LMHC - Rhode Island and also a LCPC - Maryland and was awarded her Master of Arts Degree in Counseling and Psychological Services from Marymount University in Arlington, Virginia. Ms. Koinis has over 20 years of experience working with adolescents and adults where therapy is implemented in a non-judgmental and warm environment. She utilizes an eclectic client-centered approach for treatment, which can include Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic and Solution-focused brief therapy.
She has treated a variety of disorders and issues, such as: Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Personality Disorders, PTSD, Grief and Bereavement, Adjustment issues, Relationship issues, Conduct and Impulse-Control Disorders, Substance-related Disorders, and problems/issues related to social, personal, cultural stressors as well as Refugee resettlement related issues.
Reem Koinis, LCMHC is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC - Vermont) practicing in Vermont, a LMHC - Rhode Island and also a LCPC - Maryland and was awarded her Master of Arts Degree in Counseling and Psychological Services from Marymount University in Arlington, Virginia. Ms. Koinis has over 20 years of experience working with adolescents and adults where therapy is implemented in a non-judgmental and warm environment. She utilizes an eclectic client-centered approach for treatment, which can include Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic and Solution-focused brief therapy.
(802) 321-3045 View (802) 321-3045
Photo of Josha Grant, LCMHC, Counselor in Middlebury, VT
Josha Grant, LCMHC
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Jeffersonville, VT 05464  (Online Only)
The symptoms linked to various diagnoses (anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, dissociative identity disorder.
Limited openings starting in May. I am a licensed professional who works with clients to facilitate healing and transformation and provide support in navigating intense emotions and complex relationships with oneself and others. My training in Internal Family Systems (IFS), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR and ART), Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy (DDP), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT) allows me to offer clients unconditional positive regard, acceptance, and a safe environment to engage in deep and transformative work.
The symptoms linked to various diagnoses (anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, dissociative identity disorder.
Limited openings starting in May. I am a licensed professional who works with clients to facilitate healing and transformation and provide support in navigating intense emotions and complex relationships with oneself and others. My training in Internal Family Systems (IFS), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR and ART), Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy (DDP), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT) allows me to offer clients unconditional positive regard, acceptance, and a safe environment to engage in deep and transformative work.
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Photo of Vera Mikhailova, Counselor in Middlebury, VT
Vera Mikhailova
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Colchester, VT 05446
I have over 7 years of experience working with a variety of individuals, adolescents, families, and couples from different backgrounds with a diversity of concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, family/relationship issues, self-esteem issues, self-harm, grief, homelessness, domestic violence and substance abuse.
I am a fully-licensed in VT, and as a telehealth provider in FL, I am here to help and support you. Each experience is unique and significant. I work collaboratively with every client to determine individual needs and to provide the best care possible. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where issues, problems, thoughts, and feelings can be discussed without fear of judgment. I am a person-centered counselor with a warm and compassionate style. I believe in treating others with respect and dignity. It is important to me that my clients feel understood, appreciated and their feelings are validated.
I have over 7 years of experience working with a variety of individuals, adolescents, families, and couples from different backgrounds with a diversity of concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, family/relationship issues, self-esteem issues, self-harm, grief, homelessness, domestic violence and substance abuse.
I am a fully-licensed in VT, and as a telehealth provider in FL, I am here to help and support you. Each experience is unique and significant. I work collaboratively with every client to determine individual needs and to provide the best care possible. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where issues, problems, thoughts, and feelings can be discussed without fear of judgment. I am a person-centered counselor with a warm and compassionate style. I believe in treating others with respect and dignity. It is important to me that my clients feel understood, appreciated and their feelings are validated.
(802) 494-4476 View (802) 494-4476
Photo of Jennifer M. Donohue, M.A., LCMHC, CLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Middlebury, VT
Jennifer M. Donohue, M.A., LCMHC, CLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, CLC
Verified Verified
Essex Junction, VT 05452  (Online Only)
Areas of Focus: Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, PTSD, Grief/Loss, PDD, BiPolar.
I am committed to effect change through the process of psychotherapy using a direct, reality based approach. Although I draw from many different therapeutic modalities, my theoretical orientation is consistent with cognitive-behavioral theories. I believe social learning, modeling, and reinforcement all play a significant role in how ones personality developes, how one thinks, behaves, & feels as they get older. I believe refuting negative and irrational thinking will likely increase healthy feelings and behaviors that will greatly impact ones overall wellbeing. I believe that effective communication is the key to building healthy relationships, rebuilding severed relationships, & strengthening present ones.
Areas of Focus: Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, PTSD, Grief/Loss, PDD, BiPolar.
I am committed to effect change through the process of psychotherapy using a direct, reality based approach. Although I draw from many different therapeutic modalities, my theoretical orientation is consistent with cognitive-behavioral theories. I believe social learning, modeling, and reinforcement all play a significant role in how ones personality developes, how one thinks, behaves, & feels as they get older. I believe refuting negative and irrational thinking will likely increase healthy feelings and behaviors that will greatly impact ones overall wellbeing. I believe that effective communication is the key to building healthy relationships, rebuilding severed relationships, & strengthening present ones.
(802) 458-0474 View (802) 458-0474
Photo of Mya Potts, Pre-Licensed Professional in Middlebury, VT
Mya Potts
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wolcott, VT 05680
I have worked in the mental health field for over 15 years in a variety of roles. I have been practicing for 3 years with a focus on bipolar, anxiety, depression, and schizophrenia-type conditions. I have a passion to work with individual with PTSD.
I have worked in the mental health field for over 15 years in a variety of roles. I have been practicing for 3 years with a focus on bipolar, anxiety, depression, and schizophrenia-type conditions. I have a passion to work with individual with PTSD.
(802) 725-2668 View (802) 725-2668
Photo of MAG Consulting Service LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Middlebury, VT
MAG Consulting Service LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05401  (Online Only)
Hello there! My name is Dr. Michell Greenidge and I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 11 years of psychotherapy experience. I have worked with many populations including the military. Clients I have worked with have had a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, relationship issues, career challenges, substance abuse, PTSD and a range of personality disorders. I have also assisted people who experienced child and adulthood sexual trauma. My counseling style is adaptive and interactive. I make it a point to adjust to the client I am serving in order to provide the best care possible.
Hello there! My name is Dr. Michell Greenidge and I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 11 years of psychotherapy experience. I have worked with many populations including the military. Clients I have worked with have had a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, relationship issues, career challenges, substance abuse, PTSD and a range of personality disorders. I have also assisted people who experienced child and adulthood sexual trauma. My counseling style is adaptive and interactive. I make it a point to adjust to the client I am serving in order to provide the best care possible.
(802) 526-6770 View (802) 526-6770
Photo of Crissy Webster Counseling Services LLC, Counselor in Middlebury, VT
Crissy Webster Counseling Services LLC
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Springfield, VT 05156
Crissy Webster Counseling Services LLC is a small private practice located in Springfield, VT. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who holds licensure in the states of VT and NH, as well as nationally certified through the National Board of Certified Counselors. I see clients of all ages. We have a specialty in Juvenile Firesetting Assessments and Treatment, as well as, adult and adolescent anger management. Through my education and experiences, weI also have knowledge in the areas of Family Systems Model, Trauma Informed Education Practices, ARC, HNC, Parent Training, and perform Trauma Informed Mental Health Evaluations.
Crissy Webster Counseling Services LLC is a small private practice located in Springfield, VT. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who holds licensure in the states of VT and NH, as well as nationally certified through the National Board of Certified Counselors. I see clients of all ages. We have a specialty in Juvenile Firesetting Assessments and Treatment, as well as, adult and adolescent anger management. Through my education and experiences, weI also have knowledge in the areas of Family Systems Model, Trauma Informed Education Practices, ARC, HNC, Parent Training, and perform Trauma Informed Mental Health Evaluations.
(802) 952-8671 View (802) 952-8671
Photo of Merin Perretta, Counselor in Middlebury, VT
Merin Perretta
Counselor, LCMHC, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montpelier, VT 05601
My goal as an integrative counselor is to help you reduce suffering and increase your capacity for joy, resiliency and life fulfillment. I am interested in understanding your unique experience of stress, how you hold these memories and what patterns of response have formed. I enjoy helping people free their whole being (mind, body and spirit) to greater ease and personalize my approach based on your needs. I draw from both talk and somatic therapies, including narrative, systems and yoga therapy principles. Specialties include: anxiety/depression, PTSD, feeling "stuck", chronic conditions, stress management and life transitions.
My goal as an integrative counselor is to help you reduce suffering and increase your capacity for joy, resiliency and life fulfillment. I am interested in understanding your unique experience of stress, how you hold these memories and what patterns of response have formed. I enjoy helping people free their whole being (mind, body and spirit) to greater ease and personalize my approach based on your needs. I draw from both talk and somatic therapies, including narrative, systems and yoga therapy principles. Specialties include: anxiety/depression, PTSD, feeling "stuck", chronic conditions, stress management and life transitions.
(802) 275-5532 View (802) 275-5532
Photo of L. Roen Prowe in Middlebury, VT
L. Roen Prowe
Verified Verified
East Hardwick, VT 05836
My work centers on helping clients confront, relate to, and manage the interplay between their feelings, actions, and sense of self. This understanding shapes my therapeutic approach, grounded not in a quest for temporary happiness or conventional success but in exploring and affirming our values, emotions, and unique way of being. Through simple exercises, journaling, and thoughtful conversation, we journey together toward a deeper self-awareness and coherence of being.
My work centers on helping clients confront, relate to, and manage the interplay between their feelings, actions, and sense of self. This understanding shapes my therapeutic approach, grounded not in a quest for temporary happiness or conventional success but in exploring and affirming our values, emotions, and unique way of being. Through simple exercises, journaling, and thoughtful conversation, we journey together toward a deeper self-awareness and coherence of being.
(802) 736-7797 View (802) 736-7797
Photo of Jeffrey M Brown in Middlebury, VT
Jeffrey M Brown
DO
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05401
I offer in-person consultations, individual psychotherapy, and couples therapy. I take pride in bringing compassion, patience, and transparency to every encounter. I believe each individual is unique and complex, and should play an active role in making decisions related to their health and well-being. I commonly work with individuals struggling with anxiety, depressive symptoms, trauma, grief, relationships, life transitions, existential angst, sleep or sex dysfunction, and/or those who simply seek to know themselves and improve their health on a more holistic level.
I offer in-person consultations, individual psychotherapy, and couples therapy. I take pride in bringing compassion, patience, and transparency to every encounter. I believe each individual is unique and complex, and should play an active role in making decisions related to their health and well-being. I commonly work with individuals struggling with anxiety, depressive symptoms, trauma, grief, relationships, life transitions, existential angst, sleep or sex dysfunction, and/or those who simply seek to know themselves and improve their health on a more holistic level.
(802) 255-9157 View (802) 255-9157
Photo of Rachael M. Little, Marriage & Family Therapist in Middlebury, VT
Rachael M. Little
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSc, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Saint Johnsbury, VT 05819
East Coast upbringing meets West Coast ideology! I currently practice in both Vermont and California, and am proud to blend the progressive nature of the SF Bay with my Northern Attitude and roots. I work with families, couples, and individuals, supporting folks through life transitions, work stress, tough relationships, and difficult adolescent periods. I approach our work with a sense of directness, candor, and humor. I promise I can not only handle your tough stuff, but help you through to the other side. Our work together will be fulfilling and never boring, and I'll help you take control of your life in ways you never dreamed.
East Coast upbringing meets West Coast ideology! I currently practice in both Vermont and California, and am proud to blend the progressive nature of the SF Bay with my Northern Attitude and roots. I work with families, couples, and individuals, supporting folks through life transitions, work stress, tough relationships, and difficult adolescent periods. I approach our work with a sense of directness, candor, and humor. I promise I can not only handle your tough stuff, but help you through to the other side. Our work together will be fulfilling and never boring, and I'll help you take control of your life in ways you never dreamed.
(650) 276-4246 View (650) 276-4246
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.