Photo of Suzanne Oliver, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Suzanne Oliver
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Anacortes, WA 98221
The simple fact you are seeking help through therapy is tremendously hopeful. You are half way there! My approach in therapy is to provide a safe, non-judgmental environment to identify what it is you need to create more resolution, meaning and happiness in your life. We will co-create a plan to achieve these broader goals through your daily living, how you relate with others and how you think. Therapy can be a powerful way to transform yourself (and your challenges) into living more fully, and with more in-depth understanding of who you truly are. Email is the best way to reach me.
The simple fact you are seeking help through therapy is tremendously hopeful. You are half way there! My approach in therapy is to provide a safe, non-judgmental environment to identify what it is you need to create more resolution, meaning and happiness in your life. We will co-create a plan to achieve these broader goals through your daily living, how you relate with others and how you think. Therapy can be a powerful way to transform yourself (and your challenges) into living more fully, and with more in-depth understanding of who you truly are. Email is the best way to reach me.
(855) 845-9547 View (855) 845-9547
Photo of Amy Heidecker, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Amy Heidecker
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Anacortes, WA 98221
Now accepting online clients in WA & MT. This journey called life is full of ups & downs, joy & pain, being known and feeling alone. This is most prominent during transition times like adolescence, graduating, getting married or divorced, or losing part of your identity through a change in roles or job. In my practice I honor the whole person and treat mind, body, & spirit, as well as the connections with others in relationships. You are welcome & encouraged to bring your whole story and whole self to the therapy process.
Now accepting online clients in WA & MT. This journey called life is full of ups & downs, joy & pain, being known and feeling alone. This is most prominent during transition times like adolescence, graduating, getting married or divorced, or losing part of your identity through a change in roles or job. In my practice I honor the whole person and treat mind, body, & spirit, as well as the connections with others in relationships. You are welcome & encouraged to bring your whole story and whole self to the therapy process.
(406) 612-1414 View (406) 612-1414
Photo of Todd Webb, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Todd Webb
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
Anacortes, WA 98221
During my career, I've worked with many diverse individuals, couples, and families to find healing and restoration from a variety of complicated and often very messy problems. I offer a unique measure of acceptance, support, and assistance for my clients. Besides my experience and training, I've personally struggled with difficult life issues myself. I know healing is possible and I am committed to helping you find it. If you choose to work with me, together we'll discover the root causes of your predicament and strive toward making changes that will ultimately lead to greater happiness and satisfaction.
During my career, I've worked with many diverse individuals, couples, and families to find healing and restoration from a variety of complicated and often very messy problems. I offer a unique measure of acceptance, support, and assistance for my clients. Besides my experience and training, I've personally struggled with difficult life issues myself. I know healing is possible and I am committed to helping you find it. If you choose to work with me, together we'll discover the root causes of your predicament and strive toward making changes that will ultimately lead to greater happiness and satisfaction.
(360) 301-7976 View (360) 301-7976
Photo of Heather Varnau, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Heather Varnau
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Anacortes, WA 98221
With your partner: Do you feel alone in your relationship? Are you recovering from infidelity or broken trust? Do you want to communicate in a way that pulls for your partner's understanding and connection? For yourself: Do you want to resolve your internal conflicts? Do you want to learn self-compassion and feel at peace with yourself? Do you want to break negative patterns in your relationships? I'm here to help. Over the past 15 years, I've helped hundreds of couples and individuals create emotional security, happiness, and connection through evidence-based and empirically validated therapy methods.
With your partner: Do you feel alone in your relationship? Are you recovering from infidelity or broken trust? Do you want to communicate in a way that pulls for your partner's understanding and connection? For yourself: Do you want to resolve your internal conflicts? Do you want to learn self-compassion and feel at peace with yourself? Do you want to break negative patterns in your relationships? I'm here to help. Over the past 15 years, I've helped hundreds of couples and individuals create emotional security, happiness, and connection through evidence-based and empirically validated therapy methods.
(360) 205-2569 View (360) 205-2569
Photo of Abcde L. K. Matias, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Abcde L. K. Matias
Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anacortes, WA 98221  (Online Only)
Hi all, I'm accepting new clients as of March 1st, 2024. I believe everyone has a voice that matters, and I want to hear your story. Therapy can be challenging and enjoyable however the process unfolds, I will be there for the journey. I’m here to help guide you on what you think is important and provide useful tools along the way. Specializing in adolescents, adult counseling, and couples counseling through telehealth, other counseling specializations are available as well. Also, I'm currently facilitating an ongoing open Women's Support Group via telehealth.
Hi all, I'm accepting new clients as of March 1st, 2024. I believe everyone has a voice that matters, and I want to hear your story. Therapy can be challenging and enjoyable however the process unfolds, I will be there for the journey. I’m here to help guide you on what you think is important and provide useful tools along the way. Specializing in adolescents, adult counseling, and couples counseling through telehealth, other counseling specializations are available as well. Also, I'm currently facilitating an ongoing open Women's Support Group via telehealth.
(360) 504-4825 View (360) 504-4825
Photo of Thom Thornsberry Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Thom Thornsberry Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CHT
Verified Verified
Anacortes, WA 98221
Not accepting new clients
We are truly living in troubled times, globally and personally. Many of us find ourselves fluctuating between feelings of anxiety and/or depression. At 67 years old, I’ve spent nearly half my life – 35 years – as a Marriage and Family Therapist/Psychotherapist. Adding Hypnotherapy to my practice has been a game changer, and that, along with friends, colleagues, and many clients, I’ve learned ways of managing my thinking and thereby managing my emotions. This is what I do in my private practice and I can help you to do the same.
We are truly living in troubled times, globally and personally. Many of us find ourselves fluctuating between feelings of anxiety and/or depression. At 67 years old, I’ve spent nearly half my life – 35 years – as a Marriage and Family Therapist/Psychotherapist. Adding Hypnotherapy to my practice has been a game changer, and that, along with friends, colleagues, and many clients, I’ve learned ways of managing my thinking and thereby managing my emotions. This is what I do in my private practice and I can help you to do the same.
(206) 207-3006 View (206) 207-3006
Photo of Barbara N Gaffney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Barbara N Gaffney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Anacortes, WA 98221  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Life can be challenging. Whether it's loss, change, death of a loved one or uncertainty of life's direction, we all hit roadblocks and obstacles. During those times it's important to be heard. I am here to listen and to inspire hope. I believe in my clients' abilities to change. I nurture their inner strength until they can believe in themselves. Change is powerful. It can be transformational, scary and exciting. When I worked in Palliative Care with patients who were at the end stage of their lives, I was witness to the power of being present. In the quiet presence of acceptance, a deep healing can occur. PLEASE EMAIL FOR CONSULT
Life can be challenging. Whether it's loss, change, death of a loved one or uncertainty of life's direction, we all hit roadblocks and obstacles. During those times it's important to be heard. I am here to listen and to inspire hope. I believe in my clients' abilities to change. I nurture their inner strength until they can believe in themselves. Change is powerful. It can be transformational, scary and exciting. When I worked in Palliative Care with patients who were at the end stage of their lives, I was witness to the power of being present. In the quiet presence of acceptance, a deep healing can occur. PLEASE EMAIL FOR CONSULT
(855) 611-2665 View (855) 611-2665
Photo of Michelle Matson Ellis, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Michelle Matson Ellis
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Anacortes, WA 98221
Not accepting new clients
My passion is to help men and women heal from painful experiences, including abuse, domestic violence, divorce, relational issues, and loneliness. I provide my clients with a safe and comforting space to process their pain. Together, we will work to understand the often unexplainable symptoms of grief, trauma, and loss and to identify those places in their lives where they feel burdened or overwhelmed. It is easier to identify trauma and abuse in others than in ourselves, especially when we are so used to putting others' needs before our own. I want every client to know they are precious, even in their brokenness..
My passion is to help men and women heal from painful experiences, including abuse, domestic violence, divorce, relational issues, and loneliness. I provide my clients with a safe and comforting space to process their pain. Together, we will work to understand the often unexplainable symptoms of grief, trauma, and loss and to identify those places in their lives where they feel burdened or overwhelmed. It is easier to identify trauma and abuse in others than in ourselves, especially when we are so used to putting others' needs before our own. I want every client to know they are precious, even in their brokenness..
(425) 559-9510 View (425) 559-9510
Photo of Mary Susan Schwartz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Mary Susan Schwartz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Anacortes, WA 98221  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Perhaps you're hoping to improve your mood, increase your self-compassion, or enhance your romantic relationship. Maybe you're seeking a non-judgmental and supportive relationship with your therapist, within which you can learn strategies you can use right away. If so, I look forward to hearing from you!
Perhaps you're hoping to improve your mood, increase your self-compassion, or enhance your romantic relationship. Maybe you're seeking a non-judgmental and supportive relationship with your therapist, within which you can learn strategies you can use right away. If so, I look forward to hearing from you!
(206) 455-8671 View (206) 455-8671

Online Therapists

Photo of Kyle G. Erickson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Kyle G. Erickson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maple Valley, WA 98038
I specialize in treating Generalized Anxiety, Social Anxiety, OCD, Depression/Bipolar, relationship concerns & stress management.
I have over 20 years experience helping high school aged teens (14-18), adults, couples & families. My therapy style is friendly and casual. I believe humor is healing & I use it often. My treatment approach involves talking through the issues/concerns, guiding clients towards personal insights/growth, and giving direct feedback/direction. I also teach theory guided interventions/skills that are effective at creating desired change and reducing negative symptoms. My approach has been refined by my clients. They want to be heard & understood, but they also want to learn & grow. I would like to partner with you to reach your goals.
I specialize in treating Generalized Anxiety, Social Anxiety, OCD, Depression/Bipolar, relationship concerns & stress management.
I have over 20 years experience helping high school aged teens (14-18), adults, couples & families. My therapy style is friendly and casual. I believe humor is healing & I use it often. My treatment approach involves talking through the issues/concerns, guiding clients towards personal insights/growth, and giving direct feedback/direction. I also teach theory guided interventions/skills that are effective at creating desired change and reducing negative symptoms. My approach has been refined by my clients. They want to be heard & understood, but they also want to learn & grow. I would like to partner with you to reach your goals.
(425) 405-6571 View (425) 405-6571
Photo of Blooming Leaf Counseling, PLLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Blooming Leaf Counseling, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LMHCA, LICSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redmond, WA 98052
Life can be hectic and stressful enough without the added challenges of chronic health problems or mental health struggles. We help individuals, adolescents, and families manage and cope with current problems and concerns while promoting good mental and physical health. We specialize in working with life transitions, grief and loss, aging concerns, school adjustments and anxieties, caregiver stress, depression, bipolar, family work, and trauma. We also have experience working with LGBTQIA+ individuals and couples.
Life can be hectic and stressful enough without the added challenges of chronic health problems or mental health struggles. We help individuals, adolescents, and families manage and cope with current problems and concerns while promoting good mental and physical health. We specialize in working with life transitions, grief and loss, aging concerns, school adjustments and anxieties, caregiver stress, depression, bipolar, family work, and trauma. We also have experience working with LGBTQIA+ individuals and couples.
(206) 237-5878 View (206) 237-5878
Photo of Michelle Solomon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Anacortes, WA
Michelle Solomon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Burien, WA 98166  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to achieve routine and balance as someone with bipolar disorder? Do you feel overwhelmed trying to manage your mood or stressors of daily life? Sometimes you’re just trying to figure out how to regain a sense of control when life feels chaotic. Other times you’re seeking ways to prevent your symptoms from getting worse. You're ready to get support with the low-lows, high-highs, and all that’s in between, without needing to be hospitalized. You want to get your needs met in a compassionate way. Let's work together to rediscover joy and pleasure in your life once again. I'm here to help you every step of the way.
Are you struggling to achieve routine and balance as someone with bipolar disorder? Do you feel overwhelmed trying to manage your mood or stressors of daily life? Sometimes you’re just trying to figure out how to regain a sense of control when life feels chaotic. Other times you’re seeking ways to prevent your symptoms from getting worse. You're ready to get support with the low-lows, high-highs, and all that’s in between, without needing to be hospitalized. You want to get your needs met in a compassionate way. Let's work together to rediscover joy and pleasure in your life once again. I'm here to help you every step of the way.
(206) 752-3559 View (206) 752-3559
Photo of Kimberly Miller, Pre-Licensed Professional in Anacortes, WA
Kimberly Miller
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020
I work primarily with adults, adolescents, and teens. My specialty is individuals and families affected by mood disorders (bipolar & depression) and associated trauma. I work also with individuals and their family affected by schizophrenia, trauma, anxiety, sexual abuse & assault, dissociative disorders, psychosis, and autism (ASD). Counseling with individuals is collaborative. Your identified issues and goals inform our treatment plan. In therapy we will look at your relationships since the complexity and intensity of many of our challenges are revealed and rooted in relationship.
I work primarily with adults, adolescents, and teens. My specialty is individuals and families affected by mood disorders (bipolar & depression) and associated trauma. I work also with individuals and their family affected by schizophrenia, trauma, anxiety, sexual abuse & assault, dissociative disorders, psychosis, and autism (ASD). Counseling with individuals is collaborative. Your identified issues and goals inform our treatment plan. In therapy we will look at your relationships since the complexity and intensity of many of our challenges are revealed and rooted in relationship.
(425) 615-7881 View (425) 615-7881
Photo of Steven M Brown, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Steven M Brown
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98402  (Online Only)
Not only limited to the anxiety, depression, bipolar, PTSD, ADHD/ADD, OCD, anger issues, and personality disorders or attachment issues.
A responsible social practitioner, I provide psychological care, and services using American Sign Language (ASL). I work with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds, including various populations that encompass sign language users. My interests center on developing tailored, specific psychotherapy applications that benefit the patients with hearing losses. Much of my work places an emphasis on the importance of "courageous will" to empower individuals to make choices that are useful and practical.
Not only limited to the anxiety, depression, bipolar, PTSD, ADHD/ADD, OCD, anger issues, and personality disorders or attachment issues.
A responsible social practitioner, I provide psychological care, and services using American Sign Language (ASL). I work with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds, including various populations that encompass sign language users. My interests center on developing tailored, specific psychotherapy applications that benefit the patients with hearing losses. Much of my work places an emphasis on the importance of "courageous will" to empower individuals to make choices that are useful and practical.
(253) 466-7490 View (253) 466-7490
Photo of Mary West Brandenburg, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Mary West Brandenburg
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Issaquah, WA 98027  (Online Only)
I am well acquainted with the issues of depression/bipolar, anxieties and fears, obsessive compulsive disorder, sexual abuse, healthy sexuality, LGBTQ issues, empty nest, life transitions, grief and loss, recovery, addiction and the brain, codependency, cancer (survivor!), inner child work, conflict and communication issues, divorce, blended and intact families.
When I was a girl there was no one to tell my deepest darkest secrets. My life's work is to be a trusted, healing person to those in pain. My therapy room is many things: a confessional, a delivery room, a crucible, a place of radical honesty with a whole lot of grace. Most of all it is a safe place for you to tell your story, to find strength and hope, to cry, and to heal. I embrace a holistic approach which considers your spirit, mind, body, & community.
I am well acquainted with the issues of depression/bipolar, anxieties and fears, obsessive compulsive disorder, sexual abuse, healthy sexuality, LGBTQ issues, empty nest, life transitions, grief and loss, recovery, addiction and the brain, codependency, cancer (survivor!), inner child work, conflict and communication issues, divorce, blended and intact families.
When I was a girl there was no one to tell my deepest darkest secrets. My life's work is to be a trusted, healing person to those in pain. My therapy room is many things: a confessional, a delivery room, a crucible, a place of radical honesty with a whole lot of grace. Most of all it is a safe place for you to tell your story, to find strength and hope, to cry, and to heal. I embrace a holistic approach which considers your spirit, mind, body, & community.
(425) 610-6851 View (425) 610-6851
Photo of Mary O'Leary, Psychologist in Anacortes, WA
Mary O'Leary
Psychologist, MA, PhD, MS
Verified Verified
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110  (Online Only)
My Specialties are: Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety (including PTSD, OCD, Social Anxiety, Panic Disorder, and Specific Phobias), Trauma, Dual Diagnosis (mental health plus substance use problems), Stress Management, Relationship and Couples Counseling (Emotionally Focused Therapy - EFT), Career and Life Transitions, and Personal Growth.
As a Clinical Psychologist with 30+ years of experience, I strive to help you find pathways to enjoy your life, feel more deeply connected to others, and to enhance your sense of meaning in life. My goal is to help you find ways to better cope with the difficulties that bring you to therapy and make healthy changes that enhance the quality of your life. I provide evidence-based therapeutic interventions in a warm, supportive, and professional therapeutic environment. My approach is collaborative and tailored to the personal history and present goals of each of my clients.
My Specialties are: Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety (including PTSD, OCD, Social Anxiety, Panic Disorder, and Specific Phobias), Trauma, Dual Diagnosis (mental health plus substance use problems), Stress Management, Relationship and Couples Counseling (Emotionally Focused Therapy - EFT), Career and Life Transitions, and Personal Growth.
As a Clinical Psychologist with 30+ years of experience, I strive to help you find pathways to enjoy your life, feel more deeply connected to others, and to enhance your sense of meaning in life. My goal is to help you find ways to better cope with the difficulties that bring you to therapy and make healthy changes that enhance the quality of your life. I provide evidence-based therapeutic interventions in a warm, supportive, and professional therapeutic environment. My approach is collaborative and tailored to the personal history and present goals of each of my clients.
(206) 743-9943 View (206) 743-9943
Photo of Lujane Helwani, Pre-Licensed Professional in Anacortes, WA
Lujane Helwani
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98136  (Online Only)
I enjoy and am qualified to help individuals, couples, or families navigate life's challenges, whether personal, with a partner, family, or peers. You will find that I am respectful, personable, open, knowledgeable, and humorous in my sessions. All faiths, or lack thereof, are welcome. I am experienced with grief, loss, trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, bipolar, schizophrenia, autism, ODD, and OCD. My therapeutic approach involves collaborating with clients to identify and enlist their strengths or resources to improve their quality of life.
I enjoy and am qualified to help individuals, couples, or families navigate life's challenges, whether personal, with a partner, family, or peers. You will find that I am respectful, personable, open, knowledgeable, and humorous in my sessions. All faiths, or lack thereof, are welcome. I am experienced with grief, loss, trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, bipolar, schizophrenia, autism, ODD, and OCD. My therapeutic approach involves collaborating with clients to identify and enlist their strengths or resources to improve their quality of life.
(360) 515-4722 View (360) 515-4722
Photo of Christine Scoville, Counselor in Anacortes, WA
Christine Scoville
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Bothell, WA 98011
I am a holistic, trauma-informed therapist and my focus is working with adolescents and adults on issues related to depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and neurodivergence (ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorders). I also work with issues such as spiritual trauma and abuse, childhood emotional neglect and family systems. My therapeutic approach is client-centered, relational, and depth-based. I incorporate psychoanalytic depth work, existential psychotherapy, as well as somatic and mindfulness practices incorporating the body and strengthening a body-mind connection as it feels safe to do so.
I am a holistic, trauma-informed therapist and my focus is working with adolescents and adults on issues related to depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and neurodivergence (ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorders). I also work with issues such as spiritual trauma and abuse, childhood emotional neglect and family systems. My therapeutic approach is client-centered, relational, and depth-based. I incorporate psychoanalytic depth work, existential psychotherapy, as well as somatic and mindfulness practices incorporating the body and strengthening a body-mind connection as it feels safe to do so.
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Nicole Kinion
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Shoreline, WA 98177
My background includes working with clients struggling with: bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress, acute trauma response, DV/abuse/sexual assault history, coping with chronic/terminal illness, caregiver stress/fatigue, relationship difficulties, codependence, grief & loss, and substance abuse/addiction issues.
Are you feeling overwhelmed and stuck, unsure how to make life more fulfilling? When stress becomes too much a part of our daily lives it helps to have a space and time in which we can talk through it all with someone who can help us find a new perspective. Counseling is an investment in yourself and your well-being. It can be just what is needed to calm the chaos and find energy and motivation that helps you to move from just getting by to living a full, engaging life.
My background includes working with clients struggling with: bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress, acute trauma response, DV/abuse/sexual assault history, coping with chronic/terminal illness, caregiver stress/fatigue, relationship difficulties, codependence, grief & loss, and substance abuse/addiction issues.
Are you feeling overwhelmed and stuck, unsure how to make life more fulfilling? When stress becomes too much a part of our daily lives it helps to have a space and time in which we can talk through it all with someone who can help us find a new perspective. Counseling is an investment in yourself and your well-being. It can be just what is needed to calm the chaos and find energy and motivation that helps you to move from just getting by to living a full, engaging life.
(425) 600-7192 View (425) 600-7192
Photo of Karen Beth Acheson, Psychologist in Anacortes, WA
Karen Beth Acheson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98374  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Greetings and welcome. I'm Dr. Karen Beth Acheson, Ph.D., and I have over 20 years of experience bringing warmth, compassion, and a sense of humor to help empower people to make healthy changes in their lives. My primary focus is adult psychotherapy. My style is down-to-earth; I draw from humanistic, psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral & mindfulness-based therapies. My specialty areas include: Depression; Bipolar (manic) Depression; Anxiety; Trauma (including Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder); and Emotional/Sexual/physical Abuse. Also, I am now blending my lifelong passion for animals, including a B.S. in Animal Science, with
Greetings and welcome. I'm Dr. Karen Beth Acheson, Ph.D., and I have over 20 years of experience bringing warmth, compassion, and a sense of humor to help empower people to make healthy changes in their lives. My primary focus is adult psychotherapy. My style is down-to-earth; I draw from humanistic, psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral & mindfulness-based therapies. My specialty areas include: Depression; Bipolar (manic) Depression; Anxiety; Trauma (including Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder); and Emotional/Sexual/physical Abuse. Also, I am now blending my lifelong passion for animals, including a B.S. in Animal Science, with
(253) 215-6726 View (253) 215-6726
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.