Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Denver, CO

Photo of Christine Lekas, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Christine Lekas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with people who are struggling with bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, self esteem, mood regulation, relationship issues, and communication issues in a collaborative and compassionate environment.
I use a combination of techniques, one of which is Psychodynamic Therapy, which focuses on inner child work to help you integrate aspects of your past to bring healing and compassion. I also use psychoeducation, DBT, CBT, Solution Focused Therapy, Person Centered Therapy, Mindfulness, and a little humor.
I work with people who are struggling with bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, self esteem, mood regulation, relationship issues, and communication issues in a collaborative and compassionate environment.
I use a combination of techniques, one of which is Psychodynamic Therapy, which focuses on inner child work to help you integrate aspects of your past to bring healing and compassion. I also use psychoeducation, DBT, CBT, Solution Focused Therapy, Person Centered Therapy, Mindfulness, and a little humor.
(720) 619-8275 View (720) 619-8275
Photo of Laura Travisano, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ADDC
Laura Travisano
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ADDC
16 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80203
I specialize in supporting couples and relationship therapy, high sensitivity, low self esteem and self worth, spirituality, codependency, childhood emotional neglect, addiction, grief, families navigating substance misuse, life transitions, anxiety, depression, loneliness, and Bipolar disorder.
My approach involves co-creating an impactful and compassionate ground for our work together. I hold advanced training in mindfulness-based counseling, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Intimacy from the Inside Out (IFIO), EMDR, and addiction-based therapy and am passionate about inviting awareness through Gestalt and somatic modalities in our sessions.
I specialize in supporting couples and relationship therapy, high sensitivity, low self esteem and self worth, spirituality, codependency, childhood emotional neglect, addiction, grief, families navigating substance misuse, life transitions, anxiety, depression, loneliness, and Bipolar disorder.
My approach involves co-creating an impactful and compassionate ground for our work together. I hold advanced training in mindfulness-based counseling, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Intimacy from the Inside Out (IFIO), EMDR, and addiction-based therapy and am passionate about inviting awareness through Gestalt and somatic modalities in our sessions.
(720) 794-5869 View (720) 794-5869
Photo of Anne Knack, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Anne Knack
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Online Only
Specifically, they can expect to overcome daily stressors, interpersonal relationship issues, and learn skills to best cope with short-term or ongoing mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, OCD, postpartum disorders, bipolar disorder, gender identity disorders, PTCD
She uses a variety of tools based on client needs, including but not limited to motivational interviewing, strength-based therapy, solution focused therapy, interpersonal relationship therapy, cognitive processing therapy, and CBT.
Specifically, they can expect to overcome daily stressors, interpersonal relationship issues, and learn skills to best cope with short-term or ongoing mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, OCD, postpartum disorders, bipolar disorder, gender identity disorders, PTCD
She uses a variety of tools based on client needs, including but not limited to motivational interviewing, strength-based therapy, solution focused therapy, interpersonal relationship therapy, cognitive processing therapy, and CBT.
(970) 367-1314 View (970) 367-1314
Photo of Kim Stromgren, MA, LPC
Kim Stromgren
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80222
My experience includes self-esteem, Bipolar, depression & anxiety, grief & loss, transitions, spirituality, chronic pain, & identity.
Are you feeling over-whelmed, worried, stressed, confused, or conflicted within relationships to the point where it feels tough to manage everything by yourself? Are these feelings impacting your daily life, possibly causing you to struggle with how you see yourself and your choices? Oftentimes life's abundance of challenges and opportunities can interfere with our vision of ourselves and our lives. I'll work with you to develop a therapeutic plan to reach your goals and ultimately feel better and more confident now and in the future no matter what obstacles or distractions may arise.
My experience includes self-esteem, Bipolar, depression & anxiety, grief & loss, transitions, spirituality, chronic pain, & identity.
Are you feeling over-whelmed, worried, stressed, confused, or conflicted within relationships to the point where it feels tough to manage everything by yourself? Are these feelings impacting your daily life, possibly causing you to struggle with how you see yourself and your choices? Oftentimes life's abundance of challenges and opportunities can interfere with our vision of ourselves and our lives. I'll work with you to develop a therapeutic plan to reach your goals and ultimately feel better and more confident now and in the future no matter what obstacles or distractions may arise.
(720) 204-5976 View (720) 204-5976
Photo of Ashanti Gosha, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Ashanti Gosha
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Denver, CO 80220
I have experience with depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, bipolar disorder and more.
Hi, my name is Ashanti Gosha. Therapy can be a hard first step for many people. My style of therapy is a collaborative approach where you can be authentic in a safe space free of shame and judgement. We will work together with you as the driver to help navigate any mental health challenges with me offering insight and interventions that will help you along the way. I have an integrative approach to therapy which means I work with everyone to assess their goals and needs of therapy, and I combine skills from various treatment modalities that best fits client’s need.
I have experience with depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, bipolar disorder and more.
Hi, my name is Ashanti Gosha. Therapy can be a hard first step for many people. My style of therapy is a collaborative approach where you can be authentic in a safe space free of shame and judgement. We will work together with you as the driver to help navigate any mental health challenges with me offering insight and interventions that will help you along the way. I have an integrative approach to therapy which means I work with everyone to assess their goals and needs of therapy, and I combine skills from various treatment modalities that best fits client’s need.
(720) 459-9161 View (720) 459-9161
Photo of Ashanti Gosha, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Ashanti Ashanti Gosha
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Denver, CO 80231
I have experience with depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, bipolar disorder and more.
Hi, my name is Ashanti Gosha. Therapy can be a hard first step for many people. My style of therapy is a collaborative approach where you can be authentic in a safe space free of shame and judgement. We will work together with you as the driver to help navigate any mental health challenges with me offering insight and interventions that will help you along the way. I have an integrative approach to therapy which means I work with everyone to assess their goals and needs of therapy, and I combine skills from various treatment modalities that best fits client’s need.
I have experience with depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, bipolar disorder and more.
Hi, my name is Ashanti Gosha. Therapy can be a hard first step for many people. My style of therapy is a collaborative approach where you can be authentic in a safe space free of shame and judgement. We will work together with you as the driver to help navigate any mental health challenges with me offering insight and interventions that will help you along the way. I have an integrative approach to therapy which means I work with everyone to assess their goals and needs of therapy, and I combine skills from various treatment modalities that best fits client’s need.
(720) 669-7280 View (720) 669-7280
Photo of Jennifer Kate Ferris, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jennifer Kate Ferris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Denver, CO 80218
My speciality is working with both adults and adolescents with depression, anxiety, bipolar, other mood disorders as well as ADHD.
I have worked with adults of all ages and adolescents in a variety of settings using multiple treatment modalities. I traditionally use psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to support clients in gaining skills and meeting their desired outcome goals. Utilizing individual, couples, family, and play therapy I strive to alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety and a myriad of disorders, diseases and phobias. My primary objective while working with any client is to create a safe environment to process their journey, and for people to be the center of initiative in their own lives.
My speciality is working with both adults and adolescents with depression, anxiety, bipolar, other mood disorders as well as ADHD.
I have worked with adults of all ages and adolescents in a variety of settings using multiple treatment modalities. I traditionally use psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to support clients in gaining skills and meeting their desired outcome goals. Utilizing individual, couples, family, and play therapy I strive to alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety and a myriad of disorders, diseases and phobias. My primary objective while working with any client is to create a safe environment to process their journey, and for people to be the center of initiative in their own lives.
(720) 728-0589 View (720) 728-0589
Photo of Dana Cohen, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RYT
Dana Cohen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RYT
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80212
Waitlist for new clients
I'm a specialized therapist who works primarily with neurodivergence, specifically ADHD, OCD, autism & borderline spectrums, and chronic depression, anxiety, & bipolar disorders.
I believe that the cycles of frustration you may be experiencing are not indicative of failure or deficiency, but are instead the result of navigating a world that doesn't align with your brain's natural functioning. Rather than trying to change you to fit societal expectations, I aim to help you make life work in a way that honors your unique ways of being.
I'm a specialized therapist who works primarily with neurodivergence, specifically ADHD, OCD, autism & borderline spectrums, and chronic depression, anxiety, & bipolar disorders.
I believe that the cycles of frustration you may be experiencing are not indicative of failure or deficiency, but are instead the result of navigating a world that doesn't align with your brain's natural functioning. Rather than trying to change you to fit societal expectations, I aim to help you make life work in a way that honors your unique ways of being.
(720) 807-5153 View (720) 807-5153
Photo of Jay Ryser, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Jay Ryser
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Denver, CO 80219
I have over 30 years of experience working with adults with depression and anxiety (mood disorders - major depression & bipolar and anxiety disorders - panic disorder, generalized anxiety, OCD, phobias, etc. ).
I use cognitive behavior therapy and dialectical behavior therapy; I don't want to just talk about problems, I want to get people up and active and doing something to make changes in their lives. I use Cognitive Behavior Therapy as a primary method of treatment - it works quickly and tends to keep folks doing better in the long-run, as well.
I have over 30 years of experience working with adults with depression and anxiety (mood disorders - major depression & bipolar and anxiety disorders - panic disorder, generalized anxiety, OCD, phobias, etc. ).
I use cognitive behavior therapy and dialectical behavior therapy; I don't want to just talk about problems, I want to get people up and active and doing something to make changes in their lives. I use Cognitive Behavior Therapy as a primary method of treatment - it works quickly and tends to keep folks doing better in the long-run, as well.
(720) 802-3730 View (720) 802-3730
Photo of Sarah Hay, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EdM, RYT
Sarah Hay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EdM, RYT
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I help clients wanting to stop feeling controlled by symptoms of mood swings, bipolar, anxiety, and depression.
I offer a blend of somatic and experiential therapies. I bring in research based models like Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT). I also love to incorporate yoga, art therapy and humor if that’s your style. Our work can unfold in my office, online or through nature-based hiking and walking sessions.
I help clients wanting to stop feeling controlled by symptoms of mood swings, bipolar, anxiety, and depression.
I offer a blend of somatic and experiential therapies. I bring in research based models like Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT). I also love to incorporate yoga, art therapy and humor if that’s your style. Our work can unfold in my office, online or through nature-based hiking and walking sessions.
(720) 707-3432 View (720) 707-3432
Photo of Ashanti Gosha, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Ashanti Gosha
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Serves Area
I have experience with depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, bipolar disorder and more.
Hi, my name is Ashanti Gosha. Therapy can be a hard first step for many people. My style of therapy is a collaborative approach where you can be authentic in a safe space free of shame and judgement. We will work together with you as the driver to help navigate any mental health challenges with me offering insight and interventions that will help you along the way. I have an integrative approach to therapy which means I work with everyone to assess their goals and needs of therapy, and I combine skills from various treatment modalities that best fits client’s need.
I have experience with depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, bipolar disorder and more.
Hi, my name is Ashanti Gosha. Therapy can be a hard first step for many people. My style of therapy is a collaborative approach where you can be authentic in a safe space free of shame and judgement. We will work together with you as the driver to help navigate any mental health challenges with me offering insight and interventions that will help you along the way. I have an integrative approach to therapy which means I work with everyone to assess their goals and needs of therapy, and I combine skills from various treatment modalities that best fits client’s need.
(719) 759-8390 View (719) 759-8390
Photo of Consuelo I Mockerman, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Consuelo I Mockerman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialized in working with individuals who experience PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Personality Disorders and Anxiety.
We can collaborate, to equip you with effective tools to manage the crisis in your life, using a holistic approach, in a way that brings balance in different areas, so that you can live meaningfully and purposefully, embarking on a journey of self-discovery.
I specialized in working with individuals who experience PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Personality Disorders and Anxiety.
We can collaborate, to equip you with effective tools to manage the crisis in your life, using a holistic approach, in a way that brings balance in different areas, so that you can live meaningfully and purposefully, embarking on a journey of self-discovery.
(719) 751-8121 View (719) 751-8121
Photo of Robin Ruscio, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LIMHP, CPC
Robin Ruscio
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LIMHP, CPC
7 Endorsed
Serves Area
Is depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder ruining your life?
My additional specialties are counseling teens, men's issues, and DBT. My approach includes philosophy and education about mental health. My clients gain self-awareness, new ways of looking at themselves and the world, and ultimately tangible changes in their behavior and life. You can gain openness, flexibility, resilience, hope, and freedom.
Is depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder ruining your life?
My additional specialties are counseling teens, men's issues, and DBT. My approach includes philosophy and education about mental health. My clients gain self-awareness, new ways of looking at themselves and the world, and ultimately tangible changes in their behavior and life. You can gain openness, flexibility, resilience, hope, and freedom.
(888) 685-5617 View (888) 685-5617
Photo of Michael Pipich, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Michael Pipich
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Serves Area
Located in the DTC, Michael Pipich, LMFT at The Colorado Center for Clinical Excellence, has over 30 years of experience providing psychotherapy services for adults, adolescents, and couples. Assessment and treatment options are offered for a variety of relationship and mental health problems for you or your loved-one, including individual and family therapy work with Bipolar Disorder and injured workers with workers compensation claims Online therapy services (HIPAA-compliant), and assistance with billing out-of-network insurance benefits are among the services available for your convenience. Call to schedule an appointment today.
Located in the DTC, Michael Pipich, LMFT at The Colorado Center for Clinical Excellence, has over 30 years of experience providing psychotherapy services for adults, adolescents, and couples. Assessment and treatment options are offered for a variety of relationship and mental health problems for you or your loved-one, including individual and family therapy work with Bipolar Disorder and injured workers with workers compensation claims Online therapy services (HIPAA-compliant), and assistance with billing out-of-network insurance benefits are among the services available for your convenience. Call to schedule an appointment today.
(303) 747-4762 View (303) 747-4762
Photo of Andrea M Risi, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MGCP
Andrea M Risi
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MGCP
4 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in working with the challenges that accompany chronic medical conditions, Asperger's Disorder/ASD, and Bipolar Disorder.
Are you feeling stuck? I help people move forward! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor and I work with adults to restore emotional wellness. If you are struggling with chronic illness, sports performance, social skills problems, mood disorders, or anxiety, we can work together to find a balance that can help you live a more satisfying and meaningful life.
I specialize in working with the challenges that accompany chronic medical conditions, Asperger's Disorder/ASD, and Bipolar Disorder.
Are you feeling stuck? I help people move forward! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor and I work with adults to restore emotional wellness. If you are struggling with chronic illness, sports performance, social skills problems, mood disorders, or anxiety, we can work together to find a balance that can help you live a more satisfying and meaningful life.
(720) 425-5334 View (720) 425-5334
Photo of Julia Hamlett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Julia Hamlett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80210
Julia's experience spans a wide range of concerns including anxietyrelated disorders, depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, ADHD, familial/relational conflicts, gender identity, women's issues, men's issues, emotion identification and regulation, grief, attachment wounds, transitional life experiences, and work/school related stress.
Julia Hamlett is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Colorado who has been practicing since 2020. She graduated with her Master of Social Work and AnimalAssisted Social Work Certificate at the University of Denver Graduate School of Social Work and obtained her Bachelor's degree in Psychology with a minor in Human Services from Stevenson University.
Julia's experience spans a wide range of concerns including anxietyrelated disorders, depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, ADHD, familial/relational conflicts, gender identity, women's issues, men's issues, emotion identification and regulation, grief, attachment wounds, transitional life experiences, and work/school related stress.
Julia Hamlett is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Colorado who has been practicing since 2020. She graduated with her Master of Social Work and AnimalAssisted Social Work Certificate at the University of Denver Graduate School of Social Work and obtained her Bachelor's degree in Psychology with a minor in Human Services from Stevenson University.
(720) 734-3846 View (720) 734-3846
Photo of Shayna Carter, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shayna Carter
Licensed Professional Counselor
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80209
I specialize in supporting teens (13 and up) and adults navigating mood and personality challenges, including BPD, Bipolar, ODD, anxiety, and anger management.
Clients tell me I make them feel seen, even the parts they usually hide. My superpower is creating a space safe enough for you to be honest, challenged enough to grow, and supported enough to keep going. Do you feel misunderstood, like your emotions run the show, or certain patterns just won't budge? Whether you're a teen navigating overwhelm or an adult grappling with intense mood shifts, you don't have to face it alone. Here, your struggles are valid, your desire for change is honored, and you'll find a genuine human connection.
I specialize in supporting teens (13 and up) and adults navigating mood and personality challenges, including BPD, Bipolar, ODD, anxiety, and anger management.
Clients tell me I make them feel seen, even the parts they usually hide. My superpower is creating a space safe enough for you to be honest, challenged enough to grow, and supported enough to keep going. Do you feel misunderstood, like your emotions run the show, or certain patterns just won't budge? Whether you're a teen navigating overwhelm or an adult grappling with intense mood shifts, you don't have to face it alone. Here, your struggles are valid, your desire for change is honored, and you'll find a genuine human connection.
(970) 680-7670 View (970) 680-7670
Photo of Emma Erler - Emma Erler - Mountain Thrive Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate , LPCC
Emma Erler - Mountain Thrive Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate , LPCC
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211
I have experience working with adolescents and adults with anxiety, depression, bipolar needs, suicidal thinking, grief, trauma, women's issues, LGBTQ+ related needs, substance use, relationship issues, life transitions and other concerns.
As a therapist, my passion is helping people tap into their inner strength and resilience. I believe everyone has the capacity for growth and healing, and my goal is to support you in accessing your unique skills, resources and abilities. I view you as the expert in your own life and I believe your perspective is vital to the therapeutic process. My approach combines various models including strength-based, person-centered, trauma-informed, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Internal Family Systems.
I have experience working with adolescents and adults with anxiety, depression, bipolar needs, suicidal thinking, grief, trauma, women's issues, LGBTQ+ related needs, substance use, relationship issues, life transitions and other concerns.
As a therapist, my passion is helping people tap into their inner strength and resilience. I believe everyone has the capacity for growth and healing, and my goal is to support you in accessing your unique skills, resources and abilities. I view you as the expert in your own life and I believe your perspective is vital to the therapeutic process. My approach combines various models including strength-based, person-centered, trauma-informed, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Internal Family Systems.
(720) 675-8259 View (720) 675-8259
Photo of Dez Nunez, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Dez Nunez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My primary focus is on those with mood disorders (like Bipolar).
Ever feel like you have to leave parts of yourself at the therapy door? Your passions, your fandoms, your sense of humor. I believe those aren’t distractions; they are your strengths. This is a space where we can analyze the generational trauma in Encanto, apply the ethics of Spider-Man to real life, and use evidence-based skills without it feeling like homework. What if the worlds you escape to actually hold the map to the world you want to build? Here, all of you is welcome—the parts that hurt and the parts that heal. We don't just talk about your story; we use every chapter of it to help you find your way forward.
My primary focus is on those with mood disorders (like Bipolar).
Ever feel like you have to leave parts of yourself at the therapy door? Your passions, your fandoms, your sense of humor. I believe those aren’t distractions; they are your strengths. This is a space where we can analyze the generational trauma in Encanto, apply the ethics of Spider-Man to real life, and use evidence-based skills without it feeling like homework. What if the worlds you escape to actually hold the map to the world you want to build? Here, all of you is welcome—the parts that hurt and the parts that heal. We don't just talk about your story; we use every chapter of it to help you find your way forward.
(720) 336-3725 View (720) 336-3725
Photo of Jeffrey Boscoe - Boscoe-Huffman Wellness Center, Psychologist, PsyD
Boscoe-Huffman Wellness Center
Psychologist, PsyD
Denver, CO 80203
We treat a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, anger, parental divorce/separation, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Conduct Disorder, ADHD, low self-esteem, emotional/physical/sexual abuse, academic performance and behavior issues, suicidal ideation, mood disorder( including Bipolar Disorder), thought disorder, PTSD, Boderline Personality Disorder and Asperger's Disorder.
We specialize in working with children and adolescents as well as children who are sexually acting-out, victims of sexual abuse, and who sexually abuse other children. Perpetration and victimization issues addressed include; sexual abuse cycle, power and control behavior, anger management,etc.
We treat a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, anger, parental divorce/separation, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Conduct Disorder, ADHD, low self-esteem, emotional/physical/sexual abuse, academic performance and behavior issues, suicidal ideation, mood disorder( including Bipolar Disorder), thought disorder, PTSD, Boderline Personality Disorder and Asperger's Disorder.
We specialize in working with children and adolescents as well as children who are sexually acting-out, victims of sexual abuse, and who sexually abuse other children. Perpetration and victimization issues addressed include; sexual abuse cycle, power and control behavior, anger management,etc.
(303) 900-5392 View (303) 900-5392

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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.