Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Thetford, VT

Photo of Jessica B Londa, Psychologist in Thetford, VT
Jessica B Londa
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Thetford, VT 05074
The guiding philosophy of my practice is to help people understand themselves in the service of personal development within the context of a safe and reliable relationship with another person. I believe that deep and rich self-examination requires rigorous and systematic pursuit on the part of both therapist and patient as they work together. My philosophy places a high value on curiosity, creativity, purposeful aims, tolerance of discomfort, and the strength for meaningful work and satisfying relationships. These are experienced or learned through the medium of the psychotherapeutic relationship.
The guiding philosophy of my practice is to help people understand themselves in the service of personal development within the context of a safe and reliable relationship with another person. I believe that deep and rich self-examination requires rigorous and systematic pursuit on the part of both therapist and patient as they work together. My philosophy places a high value on curiosity, creativity, purposeful aims, tolerance of discomfort, and the strength for meaningful work and satisfying relationships. These are experienced or learned through the medium of the psychotherapeutic relationship.
(802) 785-2434 View (802) 785-2434

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of MAG Consulting Service LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Thetford, VT
MAG Consulting Service LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Norwich, VT 05055  (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 Liz Macaulay, Counselor in Thetford, VT
Liz Macaulay
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norwich, VT 05055
My experience is in treating depressive and anxiety disorders including generalized anxiety, social anxiety, OCD, and PTSD. I also particularly enjoy working with young adults and adults experiencing more complex and severe forms of mental illness (including bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other forms of psychosis ). Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a collaborative process in which we’ll work together to identify what you hope to address and create a strategy to achieve your goals. Often it can be helpful to better understand the complex pattern of interactions between your thoughts, emotions and behaviors.
My experience is in treating depressive and anxiety disorders including generalized anxiety, social anxiety, OCD, and PTSD. I also particularly enjoy working with young adults and adults experiencing more complex and severe forms of mental illness (including bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other forms of psychosis ). Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a collaborative process in which we’ll work together to identify what you hope to address and create a strategy to achieve your goals. Often it can be helpful to better understand the complex pattern of interactions between your thoughts, emotions and behaviors.
(844) 417-7203 View (844) 417-7203
Photo of Wesley Wolter, Counselor in Thetford, VT
Wesley Wolter
Counselor, MS, MA, LCMHC , LADC, RYT500
Verified Verified
Fairlee, VT 05045
Hello, I am currently offering vid/tele counseling and in-person psychotherapy. I have 15 years of mental health experience and created Milldale Farm Ctr4Wellness. I focus on developing a safe and trusting relationship offering alternative approach’s through empowering you and your greatest qualities to navigate addictions, trauma and other mental health issues, for all people of all ages. I specialize in treating trauma related challenges through offering EMDR, IFS,specific mind/body therapies, holistic wellness, breath-work and soon psycadelic psychotherapy. Look forward to meeting the amazing you and being of service.
Hello, I am currently offering vid/tele counseling and in-person psychotherapy. I have 15 years of mental health experience and created Milldale Farm Ctr4Wellness. I focus on developing a safe and trusting relationship offering alternative approach’s through empowering you and your greatest qualities to navigate addictions, trauma and other mental health issues, for all people of all ages. I specialize in treating trauma related challenges through offering EMDR, IFS,specific mind/body therapies, holistic wellness, breath-work and soon psycadelic psychotherapy. Look forward to meeting the amazing you and being of service.
(802) 613-0309 View (802) 613-0309
Photo of Hilary Coons, Psychologist in Thetford, VT
Hilary Coons
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Norwich, VT 05055
Good psychological care offers people relief from acute pain and new ways of framing the challenges they face. We will work together using a variety of tools, strategies, and insights that support your recovery and growth. Seeing you through this process is my greatest honor. My approach is integrative and responsive, intelligent and professional.
Good psychological care offers people relief from acute pain and new ways of framing the challenges they face. We will work together using a variety of tools, strategies, and insights that support your recovery and growth. Seeing you through this process is my greatest honor. My approach is integrative and responsive, intelligent and professional.
(603) 643-9717 View (603) 643-9717
Photo of Hanover Center for Cognitive Behavioral Therapies, Psychologist in Thetford, VT
Hanover Center for Cognitive Behavioral Therapies
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Norwich, VT 05055
Are you looking for compassionate care to help you or a loved one address difficult emotions, experiences, or transitions? Hanover CBT is a group private practice with clinicians who specialize in working with individuals across the lifespan experiencing a wide range of mental health struggles. We seek to assist clients in cultivating awareness, wisdom, and courage in every aspect of their lives while meeting each client with compassion, integrity, and presence. We believe that it is brave to ask for support and we work with our patients to develop strength-based practices and approaches to coping with challenges.
Are you looking for compassionate care to help you or a loved one address difficult emotions, experiences, or transitions? Hanover CBT is a group private practice with clinicians who specialize in working with individuals across the lifespan experiencing a wide range of mental health struggles. We seek to assist clients in cultivating awareness, wisdom, and courage in every aspect of their lives while meeting each client with compassion, integrity, and presence. We believe that it is brave to ask for support and we work with our patients to develop strength-based practices and approaches to coping with challenges.
(603) 392-7241 View (603) 392-7241
Photo of Judy Anne Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Thetford, VT
Judy Anne Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LLC
Verified Verified
Norwich, VT 05055
People come to therapy for many different reasons: To deal with a specific problem or concern; to develop better ways of coping with life's stresses; to overcome old obstacles; to heal from loss; to become happier, stronger and more resilient. Numerous studies have shown that one of the most important factors in helping people in therapy achieve change is a strong and trusting relationship with their therapist. I am committed to creating a warm and supportive environment in which my clients can explore their challenges, learn new skills, and find and use the innate strengths that they possess.
People come to therapy for many different reasons: To deal with a specific problem or concern; to develop better ways of coping with life's stresses; to overcome old obstacles; to heal from loss; to become happier, stronger and more resilient. Numerous studies have shown that one of the most important factors in helping people in therapy achieve change is a strong and trusting relationship with their therapist. I am committed to creating a warm and supportive environment in which my clients can explore their challenges, learn new skills, and find and use the innate strengths that they possess.
(603) 704-4610 View (603) 704-4610
Photo of Ruth Kenrick, M.A., L.I.C.S.W., B.C.D., Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Thetford, VT
Ruth Kenrick, M.A., L.I.C.S.W., B.C.D.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LICSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Norwich, VT 05055  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
An effective, compassionate therapist helps you connect to your own wisdom and harness the energy to thrive. Though life can be hard sometimes, extreme suffering need not persist. I will help you escape stuck patterns or traumas that stop you from enjoying life and doing what matters most to you. It's common to have to rediscover, or even learn for the first time, how to live well. During difficult times, we may just need a little assistance. I have twenty-five years of experience supporting clients as they eliminate obstacles, reach cherished goals & attain enduring satisfaction.
An effective, compassionate therapist helps you connect to your own wisdom and harness the energy to thrive. Though life can be hard sometimes, extreme suffering need not persist. I will help you escape stuck patterns or traumas that stop you from enjoying life and doing what matters most to you. It's common to have to rediscover, or even learn for the first time, how to live well. During difficult times, we may just need a little assistance. I have twenty-five years of experience supporting clients as they eliminate obstacles, reach cherished goals & attain enduring satisfaction.
(802) 466-4198 View (802) 466-4198
Photo of Nick Doolittle, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Thetford, VT
Nick Doolittle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Norwich, VT 05055
Waitlist for new clients
Therapy is about healing. It's about bringing careful attention to emotional wounds (both old and new) and working with the difficult mental/emotional patterns that interfere with our ability to be healthy and happy. In my practice, I create a client-centered, safe, and confidential environment that makes this work both possible and rewarding. I participate fully in the client's process, holding the space that can allow healing to occur. Most would describe my style as interactive and relational. Depending on the client and presenting need, my treatment modality ranges between Cognitive-Behavioral, mindfulness-based, and psychodynamic.
Therapy is about healing. It's about bringing careful attention to emotional wounds (both old and new) and working with the difficult mental/emotional patterns that interfere with our ability to be healthy and happy. In my practice, I create a client-centered, safe, and confidential environment that makes this work both possible and rewarding. I participate fully in the client's process, holding the space that can allow healing to occur. Most would describe my style as interactive and relational. Depending on the client and presenting need, my treatment modality ranges between Cognitive-Behavioral, mindfulness-based, and psychodynamic.
(724) 987-5643 View (724) 987-5643
Photo of Wendy E. Baxter, Counselor in Thetford, VT
Wendy E. Baxter
Counselor, LCMHC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norwich, VT 05055  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Cairn Counseling: We are all on a journey. Sometimes you can feel like you’ve hit a dead end or are at a crossroad unsure how to move forward. Cairns mark the trail just as therapy can help you find your path to inner wisdom, growth, and peace. Our task together is to develop the skills needed to navigate the terrain and weather the storms as we also discover joy in the moments along the way.
Cairn Counseling: We are all on a journey. Sometimes you can feel like you’ve hit a dead end or are at a crossroad unsure how to move forward. Cairns mark the trail just as therapy can help you find your path to inner wisdom, growth, and peace. Our task together is to develop the skills needed to navigate the terrain and weather the storms as we also discover joy in the moments along the way.
(802) 327-8278 View (802) 327-8278
Photo of Dr. Karyn Gunnet-Shoval, Psychologist in Thetford, VT
Dr. Karyn Gunnet-Shoval
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Norwich, VT 05055  (Online Only)
A Yale, Dartmouth and Lehigh trained Psychologist, I run a full-time private practice and hold an appointment as a Lecturer in Extension at Harvard University. I am licensed in New Hampshire, Vermont and New York. I completed my Doctoral Fellowship in Clinical Psychology at Yale University (2015) where I won a Leadership Award for Outstanding Contributions. I then completed my Post-Doctoral Fellowships at Harvard University (Research) and Dartmouth-Hitchcock (Clinical). Prior to starting my private practice, I was an Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at Dartmouth.
A Yale, Dartmouth and Lehigh trained Psychologist, I run a full-time private practice and hold an appointment as a Lecturer in Extension at Harvard University. I am licensed in New Hampshire, Vermont and New York. I completed my Doctoral Fellowship in Clinical Psychology at Yale University (2015) where I won a Leadership Award for Outstanding Contributions. I then completed my Post-Doctoral Fellowships at Harvard University (Research) and Dartmouth-Hitchcock (Clinical). Prior to starting my private practice, I was an Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at Dartmouth.
(646) 330-1036 View (646) 330-1036
Photo of Northern Trails Counseling Services, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Thetford, VT
Northern Trails Counseling Services, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MAT, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norwich, VT 05055
I am accepting new clients. If you're not doing, thinking or feeling your best- than you owe it to yourself to do something about it. A counselor can be useful to you by helping you figure out what you want to do. Whether you want to learn to communicate better, improve your self-esteem, perform better academically, socially, athletically or if you want to free yourself from an addiction or from feelings of anxiety/depression/grief, or if you want to improve your relationships- counseling can be very useful. In terms of style, I'm a "regular, easy going guy" who will listen.
I am accepting new clients. If you're not doing, thinking or feeling your best- than you owe it to yourself to do something about it. A counselor can be useful to you by helping you figure out what you want to do. Whether you want to learn to communicate better, improve your self-esteem, perform better academically, socially, athletically or if you want to free yourself from an addiction or from feelings of anxiety/depression/grief, or if you want to improve your relationships- counseling can be very useful. In terms of style, I'm a "regular, easy going guy" who will listen.
(802) 671-7165 View (802) 671-7165
Photo of Northern Lights Counseling: Steven Librot, Counselor in Thetford, VT
Northern Lights Counseling: Steven Librot
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
White River Junction, VT 05001
Trained and experienced in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy and Internal Family Systems, I offer counseling to adults, teens, and families that combines strength-based approaches which respect each client's unique history and growth process. I work together with each client to develop treatment goals which reflect that client's hopes and dreams. Client goals may include personal growth, less conflict and more rewarding relationship, family, or work experiences, and release from the haunting effects of the past. For teens and young adults, facilitating the learning of safer alternatives than high-risk behaviors, and a stable satisfying journey towards independence and adulthood.
Trained and experienced in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy and Internal Family Systems, I offer counseling to adults, teens, and families that combines strength-based approaches which respect each client's unique history and growth process. I work together with each client to develop treatment goals which reflect that client's hopes and dreams. Client goals may include personal growth, less conflict and more rewarding relationship, family, or work experiences, and release from the haunting effects of the past. For teens and young adults, facilitating the learning of safer alternatives than high-risk behaviors, and a stable satisfying journey towards independence and adulthood.
(802) 392-9954 View (802) 392-9954
Photo of Barry N Waterson, Psychologist in Thetford, VT
Barry N Waterson
Psychologist, MA, PsyaD
Verified Verified
Norwich, VT 05055
Not accepting new clients
What seems to help people most is not changing thoughts or behaviors, or problem solving help, but rather to form a trusted alliance with a therapist who can gently but insistently help them to see and know their own defenses, repetitions and blind spots. Many individuals need a therapist who can listen patiently and give them time to develop trust and open up to their inner world of needs and wishes. When emotional problems come from a long history of hurtful and traumatic relationships, defenses that were once necessary for survival can get in the way of finding satisfaction in life.
What seems to help people most is not changing thoughts or behaviors, or problem solving help, but rather to form a trusted alliance with a therapist who can gently but insistently help them to see and know their own defenses, repetitions and blind spots. Many individuals need a therapist who can listen patiently and give them time to develop trust and open up to their inner world of needs and wishes. When emotional problems come from a long history of hurtful and traumatic relationships, defenses that were once necessary for survival can get in the way of finding satisfaction in life.
(802) 546-0062 View (802) 546-0062
Photo of Amy Woodward, Counselor in Thetford, VT
Amy Woodward
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Thetford Center, VT 05075  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Welcome! I'm so glad you're here. The decision to read this, and even consider counseling, is a huge step. I have spent my career working in mental health and am dedicated to helping people live the life they want. I have worked with people challenged by anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, substance use, relationship issues, and difficult life transitions. It is my goal to understand where you are and be with you as you decide where you want to go. I believe that together we can develop a plan that works for you, identify strategies and skills to get you there, and the confidence to keep it going long after.
Welcome! I'm so glad you're here. The decision to read this, and even consider counseling, is a huge step. I have spent my career working in mental health and am dedicated to helping people live the life they want. I have worked with people challenged by anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, substance use, relationship issues, and difficult life transitions. It is my goal to understand where you are and be with you as you decide where you want to go. I believe that together we can develop a plan that works for you, identify strategies and skills to get you there, and the confidence to keep it going long after.
(802) 444-8235 View (802) 444-8235
Photo of Robin B Osborne, Psychologist in Thetford, VT
Robin B Osborne
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
East Thetford, VT 05043
Not accepting new clients
Thank you for your interest in my practice. At this time, I am no longer accepting new clients as I wind down my practice over time. I am maintaining this profile so that current/recent clients can contact me if they wish to schedule a session. If you are a current or recent client, or if you are seeking projective personality testing, you can reach me at 603-359-1339 - by text or voicemail. I will be moving my office on June 1, 2021 and will be located about a hundred yards away from my current office in the Bushway Insurance building on Rt. 5 in E. Thetford. The building is brown and sits just south of the Post Office.
Thank you for your interest in my practice. At this time, I am no longer accepting new clients as I wind down my practice over time. I am maintaining this profile so that current/recent clients can contact me if they wish to schedule a session. If you are a current or recent client, or if you are seeking projective personality testing, you can reach me at 603-359-1339 - by text or voicemail. I will be moving my office on June 1, 2021 and will be located about a hundred yards away from my current office in the Bushway Insurance building on Rt. 5 in E. Thetford. The building is brown and sits just south of the Post Office.
(802) 735-0681 View (802) 735-0681
Photo of Kelly Dolan Mitchell, Counselor in Thetford, VT
Kelly Dolan Mitchell
Counselor, MA, MEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
White River Junction, VT 05001
Not accepting new clients
I have experience working with adults, adolescents, and children in a variety of settings. My work is grounded in the belief that gaining insight is the path to lasting change. Psychodynamic work takes place collaboratively between the therapist and the patient. This relationship becomes the catalyst for emotional growth. My office is a safe space where any topic or idea can be shared without judgement. We will work on understanding the core underlying issues to elicit lasting change. This type of therapy is suited to a wide variety of issues including depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, autism, mood disorders, and many others.
I have experience working with adults, adolescents, and children in a variety of settings. My work is grounded in the belief that gaining insight is the path to lasting change. Psychodynamic work takes place collaboratively between the therapist and the patient. This relationship becomes the catalyst for emotional growth. My office is a safe space where any topic or idea can be shared without judgement. We will work on understanding the core underlying issues to elicit lasting change. This type of therapy is suited to a wide variety of issues including depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, autism, mood disorders, and many others.
(802) 230-0411 View (802) 230-0411
Photo of Victoria Brooks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Thetford, VT
Victoria Brooks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW-S, APA
Verified Verified
Norwich, VT 05055  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I approach clients with a collaborative, strengths-based focus & direct style, informed by my training and experience working with individuals and families in the field of mental health for over 30 years. I help people identify stuck patterns and appreciate areas of personal resilience. We will work together to find insight, new learning and successful strategies to help you move in your desired direction. We will cultivate skills that allow you to approach and tolerate painful emotions and as a result decrease daily suffering. You will experience increased clarity of mind and cultivate more happiness & joy. LGBTQIA+ specialization.
I approach clients with a collaborative, strengths-based focus & direct style, informed by my training and experience working with individuals and families in the field of mental health for over 30 years. I help people identify stuck patterns and appreciate areas of personal resilience. We will work together to find insight, new learning and successful strategies to help you move in your desired direction. We will cultivate skills that allow you to approach and tolerate painful emotions and as a result decrease daily suffering. You will experience increased clarity of mind and cultivate more happiness & joy. LGBTQIA+ specialization.
(802) 327-7608 View (802) 327-7608

Online Therapists

Photo of Reem Koinis, Counselor in Thetford, 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 Vera Mikhailova, Counselor in Thetford, 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

See more therapy options for Thetford

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.