Photo of Dr. Kristen Strack, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Kristen Strack
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98126
My areas of treatment expertise include depression, anxiety, bipolar and psychotic disorders, trauma, insomnia, OCD, and life transitions.
Upcoming openings available. I am a licensed clinical psychologist with 20+ years of experience. 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 important to explore and understand. We will work together to identify your goals and areas for improvement, 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 treatment expertise include depression, anxiety, bipolar and psychotic disorders, trauma, insomnia, OCD, and life transitions.
Upcoming openings available. I am a licensed clinical psychologist with 20+ years of experience. 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 important to explore and understand. We will work together to identify your goals and areas for improvement, 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 Tracy Jordan Adams, MA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
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 Ben Danis - Benjamin Danis PhD, PhD, Psychologist
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 Kimberly Shea, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly Shea
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98133
Wait list as of Sept 2024 for afternoon/evening appts. I offer treatment and support for all anxiety and mood-related issues such as depression and bipolar. I utilize my advanced training as a DBT and EMDR therapist for those with a history of trauma, and I also work with clients who may have co-occurring issues such as substance abuse or addiction. My practice profile is generally 50% trauma, 25% anxiety and mood-related issues, and 25% substance abuse and chemical dependency. Clients and colleagues describe me as easy to talk to and genuine, with an interactive approach; my style is to balance listening with effective feedback.
Wait list as of Sept 2024 for afternoon/evening appts. I offer treatment and support for all anxiety and mood-related issues such as depression and bipolar. I utilize my advanced training as a DBT and EMDR therapist for those with a history of trauma, and I also work with clients who may have co-occurring issues such as substance abuse or addiction. My practice profile is generally 50% trauma, 25% anxiety and mood-related issues, and 25% substance abuse and chemical dependency. Clients and colleagues describe me as easy to talk to and genuine, with an interactive approach; my style is to balance listening with effective feedback.
(206) 208-2644 View (206) 208-2644
Photo of Janelle Painter, PhD, Psychologist
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 Zoe Schuler, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
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 James M Jewett, MA, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
James M Jewett
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119  (Online Only)
With 3 years 1 month of experience working with individuals and families of various communities, I've had the privilege of assisting clients like you achieve their goals. Whether it's Depression, Bipolar disorder, Anxiety, Substance Abuse and addiction, as well as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder counseling, I bring a dedicated approach that prioritizes your needs and aspirations. I believe in open communication and collaboration. You can expect me to listen attentively to your concerns, offer clear explanations, and provide solutions tailored to your unique situation. Your success is my success, and I am here to support you.
With 3 years 1 month of experience working with individuals and families of various communities, I've had the privilege of assisting clients like you achieve their goals. Whether it's Depression, Bipolar disorder, Anxiety, Substance Abuse and addiction, as well as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder counseling, I bring a dedicated approach that prioritizes your needs and aspirations. I believe in open communication and collaboration. You can expect me to listen attentively to your concerns, offer clear explanations, and provide solutions tailored to your unique situation. Your success is my success, and I am here to support you.
(509) 516-2239 View (509) 516-2239
Photo of Eryn Thull - Quartet Medical (formerly Innovatel Medical), Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Quartet Medical (formerly Innovatel Medical)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
Our multidisciplinary team of highly skilled psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, therapists, care coordinators and care managers offer compassionate, personalized care including therapy and medication management to meet the unique needs of individuals including stress, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, sleep difficulties, trauma, PTSD and many more.
At Quartet Medical our expert team of providers bring tailored mental wellness right to your home via telehealth. Your behavioral health needs are specific to you, and your care should be, too. From therapy services to medication assistance and prescribing, our accessible virtual services are your passport to a happier, healthier you – all from the comfort of your home. Don't let your mental health struggles hold you back; let us help guide you through your own unique journey of success and well-being.
Our multidisciplinary team of highly skilled psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, therapists, care coordinators and care managers offer compassionate, personalized care including therapy and medication management to meet the unique needs of individuals including stress, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, sleep difficulties, trauma, PTSD and many more.
At Quartet Medical our expert team of providers bring tailored mental wellness right to your home via telehealth. Your behavioral health needs are specific to you, and your care should be, too. From therapy services to medication assistance and prescribing, our accessible virtual services are your passport to a happier, healthier you – all from the comfort of your home. Don't let your mental health struggles hold you back; let us help guide you through your own unique journey of success and well-being.
(267) 490-3963 View (267) 490-3963
Photo of Kevin Rodas - Grace MindCare
Grace MindCare
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
From anxiety and depression to PTSD, Autism, and bipolar disorder, we provide expert evaluation, medication management, and psychotherapy to help you achieve stability and emotional wellness.
At Grace Mindcare we specialize in comprehensive psychiatric care, cutting-edge ketamine therapy infusions to enhance your mental and physical well-being. Our services are designed to provide holistic support, catering to your unique needs with compassion and expertise.
From anxiety and depression to PTSD, Autism, and bipolar disorder, we provide expert evaluation, medication management, and psychotherapy to help you achieve stability and emotional wellness.
At Grace Mindcare we specialize in comprehensive psychiatric care, cutting-edge ketamine therapy infusions to enhance your mental and physical well-being. Our services are designed to provide holistic support, catering to your unique needs with compassion and expertise.
(206) 984-6038 View (206) 984-6038
Photo of Zecharias Adebo, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Zecharias Adebo
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or mood swings? Perhaps you're managing bipolar disorder, experiencing psychotic symptoms (with support from a medication prescriber), or facing challenges in your relationships. You may feel disconnected, lost, or uncertain about the future. Your goal is to find stability, build emotional resilience, and cultivate healthier relationships, but you're not sure where to start.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or mood swings? Perhaps you're managing bipolar disorder, experiencing psychotic symptoms (with support from a medication prescriber), or facing challenges in your relationships. You may feel disconnected, lost, or uncertain about the future. Your goal is to find stability, build emotional resilience, and cultivate healthier relationships, but you're not sure where to start.
(425) 382-7571 View (425) 382-7571
Photo of Elizeth J. Chavez, PhD, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elizeth J. Chavez
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Book with me now by clicking on my website. I have more than 12 years providing psychotherapy and psychological assessments to children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in treating PTSD, depression, bipolar disorder, stress, sleep problems, OCD, and various anxiety disorders. I also specialize in psychological diagnostic evaluations for ADHD, learning disabilities, mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD, and personality disorders. My treatment entails a collaborative approach built on a strong therapeutic alliance using evidenced based modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy.
Book with me now by clicking on my website. I have more than 12 years providing psychotherapy and psychological assessments to children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in treating PTSD, depression, bipolar disorder, stress, sleep problems, OCD, and various anxiety disorders. I also specialize in psychological diagnostic evaluations for ADHD, learning disabilities, mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD, and personality disorders. My treatment entails a collaborative approach built on a strong therapeutic alliance using evidenced based modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy.
(830) 541-7902 View (830) 541-7902
Photo of Markham S Giblin, PhD, Psychologist
Markham S Giblin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101
I offer Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Exposure Therapy for Depression, Bipolar Discorder, Panic Disorder, Phobias, Anxiety, Social Anxiety, Obessisive Compulsive Diorder.
My clients are teens/young adults /adults highly motivated to change mood/ symptoms/relationships. They suffer from Anxiety, Social Anxiety, OCD, Phobias, Tics, Trichotillomania, Panic Disorder, Depression, Bipolar Disorder. They learn new strategies needed to make lasting changes through CBT, Exposure Therapy, ACT, Mindfulness, mood regulation techniques & via weekly homework. My clients are not children or couples; they do not suffer from Eating Disorders, Personality Disorders, Trauma/PTSD, ADHD or anything that I do not list. They are not insured by Medicare/Advantage Plans, Medicaid/OHP, Cigna, Magellan, MHN, Optum, United, UBH
I offer Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Exposure Therapy for Depression, Bipolar Discorder, Panic Disorder, Phobias, Anxiety, Social Anxiety, Obessisive Compulsive Diorder.
My clients are teens/young adults /adults highly motivated to change mood/ symptoms/relationships. They suffer from Anxiety, Social Anxiety, OCD, Phobias, Tics, Trichotillomania, Panic Disorder, Depression, Bipolar Disorder. They learn new strategies needed to make lasting changes through CBT, Exposure Therapy, ACT, Mindfulness, mood regulation techniques & via weekly homework. My clients are not children or couples; they do not suffer from Eating Disorders, Personality Disorders, Trauma/PTSD, ADHD or anything that I do not list. They are not insured by Medicare/Advantage Plans, Medicaid/OHP, Cigna, Magellan, MHN, Optum, United, UBH
(541) 393-8130 View (541) 393-8130
Photo of Steve Stetter, LMHC
Steve Stetter
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98108  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling stressed, burnt out or tired? Are there things in the past that affect you? Do you want the world to feel safe, secure, and life-giving? You made the first step, and I am glad you are here. Therapy is essential for everyone. We all experience life's challenges and changes, and my goal is to work collaboratively with you to meet you where you are in your journey. I am here to help you break the stigma of past traumas and life events, as well as help you heal and grow in your identity. Together, we will explore your story and create guideposts along the way and create a safe and supportive space for growth.
Are you feeling stressed, burnt out or tired? Are there things in the past that affect you? Do you want the world to feel safe, secure, and life-giving? You made the first step, and I am glad you are here. Therapy is essential for everyone. We all experience life's challenges and changes, and my goal is to work collaboratively with you to meet you where you are in your journey. I am here to help you break the stigma of past traumas and life events, as well as help you heal and grow in your identity. Together, we will explore your story and create guideposts along the way and create a safe and supportive space for growth.
(206) 678-1381 View (206) 678-1381
Photo of Elizabeth Ledesma, MA, LPC , LMHCA, NCC, ADDC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Elizabeth Ledesma
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPC , LMHCA, NCC, ADDC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115
I have a passion to work along side clients to aim to empower them in their journey. I have a strong leaning towards serving the BIPOC community. I am bilingual in Spanish and English. I tends to have the client take the lead where they need to focus in therapy. My style of therapy is compassionate, culturally responsive, and attuned to your needs.
I have a passion to work along side clients to aim to empower them in their journey. I have a strong leaning towards serving the BIPOC community. I am bilingual in Spanish and English. I tends to have the client take the lead where they need to focus in therapy. My style of therapy is compassionate, culturally responsive, and attuned to your needs.
(206) 278-6565 View (206) 278-6565
Photo of Francis Killory, LMHC, Counselor
Francis Killory
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
Francis Killory is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the State of Washington who provides clinical mental health counseling and assessments to adults of all ages. A second- career mental health professional with extensive international and intercultural experience, he has dual MA degrees in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Addictions Counseling from the CACREP-accredited University of the Cumberlands, and MBA and BS degrees from Cornell University.
Francis Killory is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the State of Washington who provides clinical mental health counseling and assessments to adults of all ages. A second- career mental health professional with extensive international and intercultural experience, he has dual MA degrees in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Addictions Counseling from the CACREP-accredited University of the Cumberlands, and MBA and BS degrees from Cornell University.
(425) 584-2824 View (425) 584-2824
Photo of Jeremy Kiskadden, MA, LMHC
Jeremy Kiskadden
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
Self-compassion is the move. You’re motivated to change, but it’s hard. Negative events can shape beliefs we don’t realize we have, so trying to “just let go” is like asking your brain to pretend its memories are wrong. Therapy can break through that, but it has to start with self-compassion. I probably won’t shut up about it, but that’s how we plant our feet to push forward. I've been a therapist for a decade for a very wide range of clients and I'm proud to have been a lot of people's 4th/5th/8th/9th therapist and had them say they felt like something finally clicked for them. I care about it clicking.
Self-compassion is the move. You’re motivated to change, but it’s hard. Negative events can shape beliefs we don’t realize we have, so trying to “just let go” is like asking your brain to pretend its memories are wrong. Therapy can break through that, but it has to start with self-compassion. I probably won’t shut up about it, but that’s how we plant our feet to push forward. I've been a therapist for a decade for a very wide range of clients and I'm proud to have been a lot of people's 4th/5th/8th/9th therapist and had them say they felt like something finally clicked for them. I care about it clicking.
(425) 541-1578 View (425) 541-1578
Photo of Dr. Katrina Kwan, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Katrina Kwan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
I specialize in adults with health related issues, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
I specialize in adults with health related issues, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
(206) 582-7016 x1002 View (206) 582-7016 x1002
Photo of Celeste Jenisch, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Celeste Jenisch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98125  (Online Only)
Have you been doing your best to hold yourself together for everyone else, but you know that your own mental health can't take the back seat much longer? If this resonates, you're in the right place. There is no appreciation for the good in life without also experiencing some sorrow, but that doesn't mean you have to remain stuck in this negative place forever. Lets work together to help you get to a place where you're spending less time dwelling and feeling stuck in the negativity, and more time enjoying the little and big wins that life brings you.
Have you been doing your best to hold yourself together for everyone else, but you know that your own mental health can't take the back seat much longer? If this resonates, you're in the right place. There is no appreciation for the good in life without also experiencing some sorrow, but that doesn't mean you have to remain stuck in this negative place forever. Lets work together to help you get to a place where you're spending less time dwelling and feeling stuck in the negativity, and more time enjoying the little and big wins that life brings you.
(425) 600-7365 View (425) 600-7365
Photo of Audria Jaggers - Audria Jaggers Riverside Therapy Center, MA, LMHCA, KAP, Counselor
Audria Jaggers Riverside Therapy Center
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, KAP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98178  (Online Only)
Hi there! I’m Audria, your enthusiastic guide on the brave and beautiful journey of therapy, where transformation and growth await! I'm all about helping you discover that perfect balance of learning and healing, and I'm thrilled to support you every step of the way. Together, we’ll tackle stress, anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, ADHD, and all the twists and turns life throws our way. My therapeutic approach is as vibrant as a rainbow—eclectic, solution-focused, and person-centered. I blend the best of CBT, DBT, ACT, spiritual practices, and Ketamine therapy, & wisdom of plant medicines. We’ll team up to harness your strengths
Hi there! I’m Audria, your enthusiastic guide on the brave and beautiful journey of therapy, where transformation and growth await! I'm all about helping you discover that perfect balance of learning and healing, and I'm thrilled to support you every step of the way. Together, we’ll tackle stress, anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, ADHD, and all the twists and turns life throws our way. My therapeutic approach is as vibrant as a rainbow—eclectic, solution-focused, and person-centered. I blend the best of CBT, DBT, ACT, spiritual practices, and Ketamine therapy, & wisdom of plant medicines. We’ll team up to harness your strengths
(425) 358-9179 View (425) 358-9179
Photo of Lisa M Velin, MACP, LMHC, Counselor
Lisa M Velin
Counselor, MACP, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115
My intention as a counselor is to form a relationship which becomes a safe place within which you can explore the nature of persistent obstacles which leave you feeling confused, overwhelmed, or "stuck." We will look at your style of relating to others, habits and patterns formed throughout the years, as a way to gain insight into who you are and where you would like to be. We will explore the significant relationships in your life (FAMILY OF ORIGIN, romantic, friendships) as well as your relationship with yourself (your emotions, how you handle and/or address conflict, anxiety, stress, sadness).
My intention as a counselor is to form a relationship which becomes a safe place within which you can explore the nature of persistent obstacles which leave you feeling confused, overwhelmed, or "stuck." We will look at your style of relating to others, habits and patterns formed throughout the years, as a way to gain insight into who you are and where you would like to be. We will explore the significant relationships in your life (FAMILY OF ORIGIN, romantic, friendships) as well as your relationship with yourself (your emotions, how you handle and/or address conflict, anxiety, stress, sadness).
(206) 330-8851 View (206) 330-8851
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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.