Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Seattle, WA

Photo of Benjamin Danis PhD, Psychologist in Seattle, WA
Benjamin Danis PhD
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98112  (Online Only)
My therapy is shaped by Gestalt theory, my experience of working with patients at the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance, and my work with bipolar, depressed and anxious clients.
Are you at a moment in your life when you realize that it might be helpful to discuss your current life situation with someone who could help guide you out of a stuck or confused place? People often feel overwhelmed, depressed or anxious when they deal with transitions in life - a change in work, health or relationships.
My therapy is shaped by Gestalt theory, my experience of working with patients at the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance, and my work with bipolar, depressed and anxious clients.
Are you at a moment in your life when you realize that it might be helpful to discuss your current life situation with someone who could help guide you out of a stuck or confused place? People often feel overwhelmed, depressed or anxious when they deal with transitions in life - a change in work, health or relationships.
(206) 429-6354 View (206) 429-6354
Photo of Gina Antonia Nepa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Gina Antonia Nepa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, LMSW, CTP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98108  (Online Only)
I'm honored to get to hold space with you. I am primarily offering ADHD assessments at this time. I’m passionate about working with clients to confirm or rule out ADHD, and offer subsequent treatment to support in ADHD management and/or the presence of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, substance misuse, and trauma impact. I'm particularly passionate about working with LGBTQIA+-identified individuals, and believe that liberation of shame is imperative in a strong therapeutic partnership. I fundamentally believe that each of us is doing our best with the tools that we have.
I'm honored to get to hold space with you. I am primarily offering ADHD assessments at this time. I’m passionate about working with clients to confirm or rule out ADHD, and offer subsequent treatment to support in ADHD management and/or the presence of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, substance misuse, and trauma impact. I'm particularly passionate about working with LGBTQIA+-identified individuals, and believe that liberation of shame is imperative in a strong therapeutic partnership. I fundamentally believe that each of us is doing our best with the tools that we have.
(206) 558-5483 View (206) 558-5483
Photo of Tracy Jordan Adams, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Tracy Jordan Adams
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
Waitlist for new clients
I work with individuals who identify as LGBTQ, I also specialize in Bipolar Disorder and anxiety.
It takes courage to ask for help. Life seems to throw us one challenge after another and we can feel weighed down by the stress of daily living. Sometimes we can lose sight of what makes us feel special and valued. I am here to work with your individual needs. Feelings of anxiety, depression, anger, and loneliness can leave us feeling disconnected from others. If we do not take the time to understand where these feelings stem from and how they affect us, we cannot begin to heal and feel whole again. I value you as an individual and want to understand your unique experiences. I want to help you to feel safe and accepted at all times.
I work with individuals who identify as LGBTQ, I also specialize in Bipolar Disorder and anxiety.
It takes courage to ask for help. Life seems to throw us one challenge after another and we can feel weighed down by the stress of daily living. Sometimes we can lose sight of what makes us feel special and valued. I am here to work with your individual needs. Feelings of anxiety, depression, anger, and loneliness can leave us feeling disconnected from others. If we do not take the time to understand where these feelings stem from and how they affect us, we cannot begin to heal and feel whole again. I value you as an individual and want to understand your unique experiences. I want to help you to feel safe and accepted at all times.
(206) 823-0816 View (206) 823-0816
Photo of Samantha Holsather, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Samantha Holsather
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98144
I work with individuals dealing with trauma, bipolar, and self-esteem.
Do you feel broken? Do you struggle to feel connected and present in relationships? Are you often stuck in numbness or struggle with intense emotions and don't know how to cope? You long to decrease the daily distress you experience and I can help you get there. I help people move from surviving to thriving. I am successful at what I do and I can help you become more empowered to improve your mental health and your relationships.
I work with individuals dealing with trauma, bipolar, and self-esteem.
Do you feel broken? Do you struggle to feel connected and present in relationships? Are you often stuck in numbness or struggle with intense emotions and don't know how to cope? You long to decrease the daily distress you experience and I can help you get there. I help people move from surviving to thriving. I am successful at what I do and I can help you become more empowered to improve your mental health and your relationships.
(206) 472-1328 View (206) 472-1328
Photo of Dr. Kristen Strack, Psychologist in Seattle, WA
Dr. Kristen Strack
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98126
My areas of expertise include the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar and psychotic disorders, trauma, emotional distress, interpersonal issues, and life transitions.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with 20+ years of experience in individual and group therapy. Therapy is a collaborative process, you are the expert on your experiences and I assist you with improving and thriving in your life. Culture, learning history, experiences, and values shape everyone and these are vital to explore and understand together. We will work together to identify your treatment goals and then approach treatment from a strengths-based perspective. Our work will emphasize improving your psychological well-being, increasing resilience, enhancing your quality of life, and decreasing symptoms.
My areas of expertise include the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar and psychotic disorders, trauma, emotional distress, interpersonal issues, and life transitions.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with 20+ years of experience in individual and group therapy. Therapy is a collaborative process, you are the expert on your experiences and I assist you with improving and thriving in your life. Culture, learning history, experiences, and values shape everyone and these are vital to explore and understand together. We will work together to identify your treatment goals and then approach treatment from a strengths-based perspective. Our work will emphasize improving your psychological well-being, increasing resilience, enhancing your quality of life, and decreasing symptoms.
(206) 210-1385 View (206) 210-1385
Photo of Janelle Painter, Psychologist in Seattle, WA
Janelle Painter
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98126
My areas of expertise include treating symptoms and disorders that impact the way we experience emotions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, psychosis, interpersonal distress, and life transitions.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with 15 years of experience providing individual and group therapy services to adults (in-person and telehealth sessions). I approach therapy from the perspective that you are the expert of your experiences and I am a resource to help you effectively navigate your life. We will work together to identify treatment targets and develop a plan for care. The focus of our sessions and the skills we discuss will be guided by your personal wellness goals. Aspects of your past, personal identities, culture, and values give light to current experiences and are discussed throughout therapy.
My areas of expertise include treating symptoms and disorders that impact the way we experience emotions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, psychosis, interpersonal distress, and life transitions.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with 15 years of experience providing individual and group therapy services to adults (in-person and telehealth sessions). I approach therapy from the perspective that you are the expert of your experiences and I am a resource to help you effectively navigate your life. We will work together to identify treatment targets and develop a plan for care. The focus of our sessions and the skills we discuss will be guided by your personal wellness goals. Aspects of your past, personal identities, culture, and values give light to current experiences and are discussed throughout therapy.
(206) 207-4980 View (206) 207-4980
Photo of Priscilla Bey, MSW, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Priscilla Bey, MSW, LSWAIC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98112  (Online Only)
My specialties include service to all adults, elders, LGBTQ+, families, and teens who are struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, agoraphobia, substance use, and bipolar I and II.
The ability to communicate and reason are the attributes that set us apart from other species. Active listening is key to understanding and reaching a resolution to the personal barriers that render us as individuals and make us unique.
My specialties include service to all adults, elders, LGBTQ+, families, and teens who are struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, agoraphobia, substance use, and bipolar I and II.
The ability to communicate and reason are the attributes that set us apart from other species. Active listening is key to understanding and reaching a resolution to the personal barriers that render us as individuals and make us unique.
(425) 655-1912 x1 View (425) 655-1912 x1
Photo of Molz Wirtz-Wold, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Molz Wirtz-Wold
Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98112
I also specialize in supporting folks with bipolar find and maintain balance and stability.
Accepting clients as of 4/22/24. A therapist for 19 years, I am a good fit for people looking for a non-judgmental, open, directive and creative therapist. I support individual adults and couples/relationships from an attachment and relational approach. I am very experienced in supporting transgender, queer, polyamorous and/or sex positive clients. People looking for a safe space to be their authentic selves are welcomed. I am queer, transgender, autistic and have lived experience as a fat bodied person.
I also specialize in supporting folks with bipolar find and maintain balance and stability.
Accepting clients as of 4/22/24. A therapist for 19 years, I am a good fit for people looking for a non-judgmental, open, directive and creative therapist. I support individual adults and couples/relationships from an attachment and relational approach. I am very experienced in supporting transgender, queer, polyamorous and/or sex positive clients. People looking for a safe space to be their authentic selves are welcomed. I am queer, transgender, autistic and have lived experience as a fat bodied person.
(503) 379-9742 View (503) 379-9742
Nicole Kinion
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98133
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 Michelle Solomon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Michelle Solomon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107  (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 Ashley Jones in Seattle, WA
Ashley Jones
MA, LMHCA, LMFTA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
My areas of expertise include women's issues, body image and self-esteem struggles, depression, anxiety, trauma, religious trauma, PTSD, C-PTSD, grief and loss, bipolar disorder, life transitions, and substance abuse.
Being a therapist is my passion and I consider it an honor to be able to work with everyone of my clients. My passion for being a therapist come from my own healing journey. I understand what it is like to struggle. I also know what it is like to find peace through healing.
My areas of expertise include women's issues, body image and self-esteem struggles, depression, anxiety, trauma, religious trauma, PTSD, C-PTSD, grief and loss, bipolar disorder, life transitions, and substance abuse.
Being a therapist is my passion and I consider it an honor to be able to work with everyone of my clients. My passion for being a therapist come from my own healing journey. I understand what it is like to struggle. I also know what it is like to find peace through healing.
(303) 529-6355 View (303) 529-6355
Photo of Steven Kubacki, Psychologist in Seattle, WA
Steven Kubacki
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115
I have been providing psychotherapy and consulting services since 1993 for adults, adolescents, children, couples, and families. My practice is quite diverse and involves the following services: (1) Treatment of PTSD, trauma, bereavement, relationship issues, depression, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, borderline disorder, ADHD, bipolar, conduct disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and Asperger’s. (2) Treatment of chronic pain, quality of life issues, and psychology problems due to debilitating or acute illnesses, such as cancer and auto-immune diseases. (3) Personal growth, spiritual development, and wellness counseling. (4) Sports psychology to improve performance and motivation. (5) Cognitive, personality, learning, and pre-surgical assessments.
I have been providing psychotherapy and consulting services since 1993 for adults, adolescents, children, couples, and families. My practice is quite diverse and involves the following services: (1) Treatment of PTSD, trauma, bereavement, relationship issues, depression, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, borderline disorder, ADHD, bipolar, conduct disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and Asperger’s. (2) Treatment of chronic pain, quality of life issues, and psychology problems due to debilitating or acute illnesses, such as cancer and auto-immune diseases. (3) Personal growth, spiritual development, and wellness counseling. (4) Sports psychology to improve performance and motivation. (5) Cognitive, personality, learning, and pre-surgical assessments.
(206) 922-8133 View (206) 922-8133
Photo of Will Dowd Counseling Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Will Dowd Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98109
Hi, I'm Will. I'm glad you are here. Seeking help can be overwhelming when you are struggling just to get through the day. I hope to make the process a little easier for you. I have lots of experience working with all kinds of people suffering from depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, unwanted substance use, bipolar disorder, relationship issues and more. You want to feel better, to stop worrying about the future and rehashing the past, to move through what keeps you stuck in distress, to feel freedom, and some measure of peace. I am confident that therapy can help.
Hi, I'm Will. I'm glad you are here. Seeking help can be overwhelming when you are struggling just to get through the day. I hope to make the process a little easier for you. I have lots of experience working with all kinds of people suffering from depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, unwanted substance use, bipolar disorder, relationship issues and more. You want to feel better, to stop worrying about the future and rehashing the past, to move through what keeps you stuck in distress, to feel freedom, and some measure of peace. I am confident that therapy can help.
(206) 312-2326 View (206) 312-2326
Photo of Dwayne Robert Stone, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Dwayne Robert Stone
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
I have expertise in addressing schizophrenia, bipolar, psychosis, and major depressive disorder.
I have been in the behavioral health field for 35 years. I have experience as a counselor, case manager, supervisor in community mental health programs in Oregon, Missouri and Washington. I developed and taught a post-divorce and parenting program. I have spoken to thousands of individuals throughout my career via workshops and seminars on parenting, relationships, and crisis intervention. I have taught Mental Health First Aid courses in Washington and in Hawaii. I believe in the Japanese proverb “Fall seven times, Stand up eight” and strive to keep you standing through difficult situations.
I have expertise in addressing schizophrenia, bipolar, psychosis, and major depressive disorder.
I have been in the behavioral health field for 35 years. I have experience as a counselor, case manager, supervisor in community mental health programs in Oregon, Missouri and Washington. I developed and taught a post-divorce and parenting program. I have spoken to thousands of individuals throughout my career via workshops and seminars on parenting, relationships, and crisis intervention. I have taught Mental Health First Aid courses in Washington and in Hawaii. I believe in the Japanese proverb “Fall seven times, Stand up eight” and strive to keep you standing through difficult situations.
(206) 455-6689 View (206) 455-6689
Photo of Debbie Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Debbie Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98155  (Online Only)
Hello! Life gets so hectic and stressful at times. It seems everyone has it all together except for you. You have a desire to make changes but aren't sure where to begin. Good news! You already have everything inside of you that you need, and we can work together to bring out those positive qualities and put them to use. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in mental health. I support people with anxiety, depression, personality disorders, bipolar disorders, psychotic symptoms, and PTSD. I have worked extensively with clients from a variety of backgrounds and cultures. I am excited to meet you and hear your story.
Hello! Life gets so hectic and stressful at times. It seems everyone has it all together except for you. You have a desire to make changes but aren't sure where to begin. Good news! You already have everything inside of you that you need, and we can work together to bring out those positive qualities and put them to use. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in mental health. I support people with anxiety, depression, personality disorders, bipolar disorders, psychotic symptoms, and PTSD. I have worked extensively with clients from a variety of backgrounds and cultures. I am excited to meet you and hear your story.
(360) 230-5729 View (360) 230-5729
Photo of David Shirk, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
David Shirk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Washington State. I've been working for 25 years with people struggling with mental health issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar, and personality disorders. I help people with stress, relationships, and finding meaning in their life.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Washington State. I've been working for 25 years with people struggling with mental health issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar, and personality disorders. I help people with stress, relationships, and finding meaning in their life.
(206) 736-1008 View (206) 736-1008
Photo of Theresa K Jaworski, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Theresa K Jaworski
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102
Waitlist for new clients
I have 36 years of experience and specialize in helping individuals suffering with depression, anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder and chronic pain. I enjoy teaching mindfulness and acceptance techniques and find them to be a good adjunct to cognitive behavioral therapy and psychotherapy. I believe our true nature is comprised of awareness and compassion. In therapy we learn to direct this compassionate awareness towards ourselves. Instead of standing apart from ourselves and pushing ourselves to be better or different, the goal of therapy is to make friends with who we already are.
I have 36 years of experience and specialize in helping individuals suffering with depression, anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder and chronic pain. I enjoy teaching mindfulness and acceptance techniques and find them to be a good adjunct to cognitive behavioral therapy and psychotherapy. I believe our true nature is comprised of awareness and compassion. In therapy we learn to direct this compassionate awareness towards ourselves. Instead of standing apart from ourselves and pushing ourselves to be better or different, the goal of therapy is to make friends with who we already are.
(206) 557-6255 View (206) 557-6255
Photo of Rainer Goldberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Rainer Goldberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98118  (Online Only)
I pull from multiple modalities but my primary focus is based in Cognitive Enhancement Therapy (CET) , Functional Remediation for bipolar disorder, and Transpersonal Psychotherapy.
Have you reached a point where your own will has sabotaged your life? Either recognizing how small you are in the grand scheme of things, lack of ability to transcend stagnancy or break free from bad habits or symptoms that rob you of joy? I have found the difference between being alive and living is rooted in transcending your identity (or sense of self ) beyond one dimensional perspectives, and I utilize the medium of color (and archetypes) to create a bridge between the conscious and unconscious world that exists within, among, and around you.
I pull from multiple modalities but my primary focus is based in Cognitive Enhancement Therapy (CET) , Functional Remediation for bipolar disorder, and Transpersonal Psychotherapy.
Have you reached a point where your own will has sabotaged your life? Either recognizing how small you are in the grand scheme of things, lack of ability to transcend stagnancy or break free from bad habits or symptoms that rob you of joy? I have found the difference between being alive and living is rooted in transcending your identity (or sense of self ) beyond one dimensional perspectives, and I utilize the medium of color (and archetypes) to create a bridge between the conscious and unconscious world that exists within, among, and around you.
(206) 337-4521 View (206) 337-4521
Photo of Zoe Schuler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Zoe Schuler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107
She loves to collaborate candidly and strategically with people as they make the ever-important investment in their mental health, addressing issues including depression, anxiety, grief, relationship difficulties, bipolar disorders, psychosis, and trauma.
Zoe holds a master's degree in clinical social work from the University of Washington, which is also where she obtained her bachelor's of English ten years prior. With nearly a decade of relevant professional experience in the nonprofit sphere, Zoe pivoted to providing direct mental health services to adults. She believes in client-centered work, and employs an integrative approach to therapy, with motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and psychodynamic work guiding her practice.
She loves to collaborate candidly and strategically with people as they make the ever-important investment in their mental health, addressing issues including depression, anxiety, grief, relationship difficulties, bipolar disorders, psychosis, and trauma.
Zoe holds a master's degree in clinical social work from the University of Washington, which is also where she obtained her bachelor's of English ten years prior. With nearly a decade of relevant professional experience in the nonprofit sphere, Zoe pivoted to providing direct mental health services to adults. She believes in client-centered work, and employs an integrative approach to therapy, with motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and psychodynamic work guiding her practice.
(206) 222-4728 View (206) 222-4728
Photo of Matthew Nordin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Matthew Nordin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
anxiety & bipolar.
People often come to me after spending years with other therapists, feeling like they haven't made any progress with issues of trauma from childhood or past relationships or things they've witnessed on-the-job if they're a first responder, medical provider, journalist, etc. However, "trauma" can result from emotional abuse, too, not just physical and sexual abuse. It can stem from any authority figure, as well, not just your parents. Many of my clients learn for the first time that they have PTSD or a similar trauma-related disorder. They tell me that they thought only military service members got PTSD. But when we go over symptoms
anxiety & bipolar.
People often come to me after spending years with other therapists, feeling like they haven't made any progress with issues of trauma from childhood or past relationships or things they've witnessed on-the-job if they're a first responder, medical provider, journalist, etc. However, "trauma" can result from emotional abuse, too, not just physical and sexual abuse. It can stem from any authority figure, as well, not just your parents. Many of my clients learn for the first time that they have PTSD or a similar trauma-related disorder. They tell me that they thought only military service members got PTSD. But when we go over symptoms
(206) 558-0312 View (206) 558-0312
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.