Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Arizona

Photo of Heather Meinhardt Lucas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Heather Meinhardt Lucas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained to help with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, ADHD, Autism, Borderline Personality Disorder, Substance use and Recovery, and more.
Hi! I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 plus years of experience. I take an eclectic approach to therapy looking at the unique needs of each person. As a therapist and a person living in this world, I believe that there is always a chance at a silver lining to every challenge that we face. I feel that everyone is worthy of a happy and healthy life. I am here if you are unsure of what you may be going through and know that not every person fits in a box, sometimes we may just need a little guidance. I am always looking to expand my skills as a therapist and will do the work to find the best interventions for you.
I am trained to help with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, ADHD, Autism, Borderline Personality Disorder, Substance use and Recovery, and more.
Hi! I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 plus years of experience. I take an eclectic approach to therapy looking at the unique needs of each person. As a therapist and a person living in this world, I believe that there is always a chance at a silver lining to every challenge that we face. I feel that everyone is worthy of a happy and healthy life. I am here if you are unsure of what you may be going through and know that not every person fits in a box, sometimes we may just need a little guidance. I am always looking to expand my skills as a therapist and will do the work to find the best interventions for you.
(480) 360-4862 View (480) 360-4862
Jessica Simpson
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85206
I am a graduate of GCU with a bachelor's in Psychology with an emphasis in marriage family therapy. I have worked in the mental health field since 2015. I have worked with SMI individuals who have struggled with Schizophrenia, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, and PTSD and children ages 0-10 with behavioral concerns. providing parenting support. I enjoy utilizing techniques from CBT, DBT and Trauma focused therapies and include teaching my clients self-compassion. Although my passion is is trauma, I am willing to learn more therapeutic techniques and explore different cultures to help my clients reach their goals.
I am a graduate of GCU with a bachelor's in Psychology with an emphasis in marriage family therapy. I have worked in the mental health field since 2015. I have worked with SMI individuals who have struggled with Schizophrenia, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, and PTSD and children ages 0-10 with behavioral concerns. providing parenting support. I enjoy utilizing techniques from CBT, DBT and Trauma focused therapies and include teaching my clients self-compassion. Although my passion is is trauma, I am willing to learn more therapeutic techniques and explore different cultures to help my clients reach their goals.
(480) 571-9212 View (480) 571-9212
Photo of Bianca Aguilar @ Entune Behavioral Health, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Bianca Aguilar @ Entune Behavioral Health
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85715
Whether you're struggling with bipolar disorder, trauma, substance use, or identity issues, I offer a safe, non-judgmental space for healing.
My name is Bianca and I am an LPC and the Site Director at Entune's Tanque Verde office. My ideal client is someone seeking genuine healing and growth. They might struggle with trauma, substance use, or mood disorders like bipolar disorder. They're courageous individuals, perhaps veterans or first responders, who've faced intense challenges. They yearn for relief from their pain, a sense of control, and the ability to live authentically. They want to understand themselves better, navigate life's complexities, and cultivate resilience. Their goal is not just survival, but to thrive, reclaiming joy and purpose.
Whether you're struggling with bipolar disorder, trauma, substance use, or identity issues, I offer a safe, non-judgmental space for healing.
My name is Bianca and I am an LPC and the Site Director at Entune's Tanque Verde office. My ideal client is someone seeking genuine healing and growth. They might struggle with trauma, substance use, or mood disorders like bipolar disorder. They're courageous individuals, perhaps veterans or first responders, who've faced intense challenges. They yearn for relief from their pain, a sense of control, and the ability to live authentically. They want to understand themselves better, navigate life's complexities, and cultivate resilience. Their goal is not just survival, but to thrive, reclaiming joy and purpose.
(520) 412-2835 View (520) 412-2835
Photo of Tiffany Williams-Jones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Tiffany Williams-Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85296
Jones specializes in the following: Academic/Learning Problems, Adjustment Issues, Anxiety Disorder, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Childhood Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Marital and Relationship problems, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Parenting/Coaching, Social Emotional Problems and EMDR Therapy.
Dr. Williams-Jones received her Masters degree in Social Work, and her Doctorate in Educational Psychology. Her practice is based on the belief that patients' needs are of the utmost importance. Dr. Williams-Jones offers comprehensive evaluation and therapy services for children, teens, adults and families. She works with couples and families to help restore and/or create relationships after a psychological crisis. Dr. Williams-Jones treats children who struggle with social emotional, and learning difficulties. She also works with individuals who are experiencing life changes and need guidance.
Jones specializes in the following: Academic/Learning Problems, Adjustment Issues, Anxiety Disorder, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Childhood Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Marital and Relationship problems, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Parenting/Coaching, Social Emotional Problems and EMDR Therapy.
Dr. Williams-Jones received her Masters degree in Social Work, and her Doctorate in Educational Psychology. Her practice is based on the belief that patients' needs are of the utmost importance. Dr. Williams-Jones offers comprehensive evaluation and therapy services for children, teens, adults and families. She works with couples and families to help restore and/or create relationships after a psychological crisis. Dr. Williams-Jones treats children who struggle with social emotional, and learning difficulties. She also works with individuals who are experiencing life changes and need guidance.
(480) 605-1491 View (480) 605-1491
Photo of Lisa Johnson, Counselor in Arizona
Lisa Johnson
Counselor, LAC, MSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
I have specialized experience in working with Bipolar Disorder.
Are you looking for a nonjudgmental, safe space to learn skills to feel better? Clients that seek me out are often looking for support in managing intense emotions like anxiety, depression, and mania. They often feel powerless over their feelings. For children and teens, sometimes this is observed through behaviors like isolation, acting out, or self-harming. Many times they wish there was a magic pill that could just solve all their problems so they could not feel like they are simply surviving. As we work together we will improve coping skills, connect with meaning and purpose, manage distress and create a more fulfilling life.
I have specialized experience in working with Bipolar Disorder.
Are you looking for a nonjudgmental, safe space to learn skills to feel better? Clients that seek me out are often looking for support in managing intense emotions like anxiety, depression, and mania. They often feel powerless over their feelings. For children and teens, sometimes this is observed through behaviors like isolation, acting out, or self-harming. Many times they wish there was a magic pill that could just solve all their problems so they could not feel like they are simply surviving. As we work together we will improve coping skills, connect with meaning and purpose, manage distress and create a more fulfilling life.
(480) 508-8475 View (480) 508-8475
Photo of Kristen Radke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Kristen Radke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85258  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients / Teletherapy or equine assisted psychotherapy / EAGALA (weather permitting). I primarily treat anxiety, depression, bipolar, relational and/or marital issues, and life transitions. I also provide Christian/biblical therapy upon request. Working with me you'll learn to be more present, feel less anxious, communicate your feelings and thoughts, process through past hurts, set healthy boundaries, and learn to move forward. Let me help you bring a more balanced perspective to your life.
Accepting new clients / Teletherapy or equine assisted psychotherapy / EAGALA (weather permitting). I primarily treat anxiety, depression, bipolar, relational and/or marital issues, and life transitions. I also provide Christian/biblical therapy upon request. Working with me you'll learn to be more present, feel less anxious, communicate your feelings and thoughts, process through past hurts, set healthy boundaries, and learn to move forward. Let me help you bring a more balanced perspective to your life.
(480) 630-4187 View (480) 630-4187
Photo of Amanda Reed, Psychologist in Arizona
Amanda Reed
Psychologist, PhD, PLLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who provides services to children, adolescents, adults, and families. I specialize in the treatment of mood issues (depression, bipolar disorder), anxiety, behavioral or academic problems, social skills deficits, trauma/grief issues, incontinence issues (enuresis and encopresis), and relationship difficulties. In addition, I work with children and families experiencing separation or divorce and other major life stressors, and I provide parenting skills training.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who provides services to children, adolescents, adults, and families. I specialize in the treatment of mood issues (depression, bipolar disorder), anxiety, behavioral or academic problems, social skills deficits, trauma/grief issues, incontinence issues (enuresis and encopresis), and relationship difficulties. In addition, I work with children and families experiencing separation or divorce and other major life stressors, and I provide parenting skills training.
(480) 845-0381 View (480) 845-0381
Photo of Cheryl Lockett, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Cheryl Lockett
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chandler, AZ 85224  (Online Only)
CBT is an empirically validated treatment model and effective in treating adults and children suffering from a variety of mental health issues to include depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD etc.
My name is Dr. Lockett, I am a clinical therapist and also a non-profit organization( MIND Family & Social Services, Inc). We provide counseling and community intervention to adults and children. Our focus is on diffusing the current crisis/situation, evaluate its nature to reduce the likelihood of the re-occurrence. Our aim is to ensure clinical appropriateness of services provided, improve client's ability to care for self and family and ensure linkage to community resources.
CBT is an empirically validated treatment model and effective in treating adults and children suffering from a variety of mental health issues to include depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD etc.
My name is Dr. Lockett, I am a clinical therapist and also a non-profit organization( MIND Family & Social Services, Inc). We provide counseling and community intervention to adults and children. Our focus is on diffusing the current crisis/situation, evaluate its nature to reduce the likelihood of the re-occurrence. Our aim is to ensure clinical appropriateness of services provided, improve client's ability to care for self and family and ensure linkage to community resources.
(520) 464-4632 View (520) 464-4632
Photo of Melissa Pavlik, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Melissa Pavlik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and earned my Master’s degree in Social Work from Arizona State University in 2018. I have experience working with diverse populations and all age ranges from children as young as 7, to adolescents, to adults, and older adults. My background includes therapy with individuals, couples, families, and groups who have been challenged with depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, bipolar disorder, psychosis, substance use, grief and loss, mood disorders and personality disorders.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and earned my Master’s degree in Social Work from Arizona State University in 2018. I have experience working with diverse populations and all age ranges from children as young as 7, to adolescents, to adults, and older adults. My background includes therapy with individuals, couples, families, and groups who have been challenged with depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, bipolar disorder, psychosis, substance use, grief and loss, mood disorders and personality disorders.
(480) 906-3891 x721 View (480) 906-3891 x721
Photo of Mya L. Adams, Counselor in Arizona
Mya L. Adams
Counselor, MEd, LAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85202
I’ve worked with clients to help them overcome/manage; Depression, PTSD, Gender Dysphoria, Body Dysphoria, Anxiety, Bipolar, ADHD, Personality Disorders, relationship conflict, and/or addiction.
Life, our past, conflict, and all of the demands we face day-to-day can leave us feeling overwhelmed, anxious, stressed, depressed, angry, and sometimes hopeless. It does not have to be like that. Change is possible. Changing how you feel about yourself, your relationships, and your life is possible! When we feel our best - we show up as our best self in all areas of life. Please visit my website to learn more about me and how I can help you.
I’ve worked with clients to help them overcome/manage; Depression, PTSD, Gender Dysphoria, Body Dysphoria, Anxiety, Bipolar, ADHD, Personality Disorders, relationship conflict, and/or addiction.
Life, our past, conflict, and all of the demands we face day-to-day can leave us feeling overwhelmed, anxious, stressed, depressed, angry, and sometimes hopeless. It does not have to be like that. Change is possible. Changing how you feel about yourself, your relationships, and your life is possible! When we feel our best - we show up as our best self in all areas of life. Please visit my website to learn more about me and how I can help you.
(480) 466-0744 View (480) 466-0744
Photo of Kaycee Thompson in Arizona
Kaycee Thompson
LMSW
Verified Verified
Chandler, AZ 85248
I am passionate about empathy based and solution focused care and am a strong advocate that therapy can be a great tool for all individuals. I have experience working with hearing and Deaf individuals as I am fluent in American Sign Language, couples, families, and groups that are focused on mental health needs. These needs include but are not limited to: anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, conflict resolution, stress, personality disorders, goal setting, relationship issues, trauma processing, and family issues.
I am passionate about empathy based and solution focused care and am a strong advocate that therapy can be a great tool for all individuals. I have experience working with hearing and Deaf individuals as I am fluent in American Sign Language, couples, families, and groups that are focused on mental health needs. These needs include but are not limited to: anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, conflict resolution, stress, personality disorders, goal setting, relationship issues, trauma processing, and family issues.
(480) 841-0747 View (480) 841-0747
Photo of Malia Seronio, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Malia Seronio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chandler, AZ 85248
First, I want to acknowledge the significance of the steps you are taking to seek support, as I know this process can feel scary and overwhelming. I enjoy working with individuals from adolescence all the way into late-life transitions. I believe that at any age or stage in life, we all have opportunities to make positive changes and increase our wellness. I have experience working with diverse populations of different ages, cultural backgrounds, stages in life, and mental health needs including anxiety-based disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, grief and loss, substance use, and trauma.
First, I want to acknowledge the significance of the steps you are taking to seek support, as I know this process can feel scary and overwhelming. I enjoy working with individuals from adolescence all the way into late-life transitions. I believe that at any age or stage in life, we all have opportunities to make positive changes and increase our wellness. I have experience working with diverse populations of different ages, cultural backgrounds, stages in life, and mental health needs including anxiety-based disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, grief and loss, substance use, and trauma.
(480) 613-7144 View (480) 613-7144
Photo of Roxanne Dalpos, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Roxanne Dalpos
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Chandler, AZ 85224
I am a licensed psychotherpist in AZ and nationally certified. I am trained in various techniques that help with the resolution of trauma, abuse, neglect, addiction, and personality corrections. In addition, I can provide testing for behavioral, emotional, personality, and psychological concerns. As the clinical director, I coordinate and oversee our groups and IOP (intensive outpatient) programs. My team includes Spanish speaking services and the ability to work with those who have other concerns such as anxiey, bipolar, depression, ADHD, and emotional dysregulation as part of individual, group, IOP counseling.
I am a licensed psychotherpist in AZ and nationally certified. I am trained in various techniques that help with the resolution of trauma, abuse, neglect, addiction, and personality corrections. In addition, I can provide testing for behavioral, emotional, personality, and psychological concerns. As the clinical director, I coordinate and oversee our groups and IOP (intensive outpatient) programs. My team includes Spanish speaking services and the ability to work with those who have other concerns such as anxiey, bipolar, depression, ADHD, and emotional dysregulation as part of individual, group, IOP counseling.
(480) 382-1929 View (480) 382-1929
Photo of Meliora Counseling & Wellness , Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
Meliora Counseling & Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS , LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85029
We treat Child/Adolescent Behavioral Concerns, Self-harm behaviors, ADHD,Depression, Anxiety, Trauma/PTS, Personality Disorders, Bipolar Disorder Perinatal Depression, Eating Disorders, Self esteem issues, Gender identity and Body Dysmorphia
We treat Child/Adolescent Behavioral Concerns, Self-harm behaviors, ADHD,Depression, Anxiety, Trauma/PTS, Personality Disorders, Bipolar Disorder Perinatal Depression, Eating Disorders, Self esteem issues, Gender identity and Body Dysmorphia
(623) 343-2390 View (623) 343-2390
Photo of Mark Treegoob, Psychologist in Arizona
Mark Treegoob
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Glendale, AZ 85308
I also have specialized in ADHD, adult and children; Bipolar Disorder; Asperger's Disorder; Depression; Anger Management; and Stress Management.
I work with children 13 or over through adolescence, and adults of all ages.
I also have specialized in ADHD, adult and children; Bipolar Disorder; Asperger's Disorder; Depression; Anger Management; and Stress Management.
I work with children 13 or over through adolescence, and adults of all ages.
(480) 409-2321 View (480) 409-2321
Photo of More Life Counseling Services, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona
More Life Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS LPC , BHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buckeye, AZ 85326
I enjoy working with families struggling with interpersonal relationships, pre and post marital issues, communication difficulties, substance abuse, and trauma. I have experience working with individuals dealing with addictions and recovery, depression, stress, anxiety, bipolar disorder, self esteem, grief, anger management, self harming issues, and borderline personality disorder.
I enjoy working with families struggling with interpersonal relationships, pre and post marital issues, communication difficulties, substance abuse, and trauma. I have experience working with individuals dealing with addictions and recovery, depression, stress, anxiety, bipolar disorder, self esteem, grief, anger management, self harming issues, and borderline personality disorder.
(623) 469-7840 View (623) 469-7840
Photo of Victoria L. Woods, LCSW, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Victoria L. Woods, LCSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Payson, AZ 85541
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I am currently working with adults and teenagers individually, as couples, in families, and in groups. My emphasis is in treating the whole person and in developing a plan based on proven treatment strategies. I have training in numerous treatment modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, family systems therapy, behavioral therapy, gestalt, therapy, psycho-educational approaches, and group therapy. I have extensive experience in treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, grief & loss, relationship issues, and employment concerns.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I am currently working with adults and teenagers individually, as couples, in families, and in groups. My emphasis is in treating the whole person and in developing a plan based on proven treatment strategies. I have training in numerous treatment modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, family systems therapy, behavioral therapy, gestalt, therapy, psycho-educational approaches, and group therapy. I have extensive experience in treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, grief & loss, relationship issues, and employment concerns.
(480) 409-2426 View (480) 409-2426
Photo of Lauren J Border, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Lauren J Border
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW, MSW, BSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85023
I have worked with individuals with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, grief, trauma, and have directly served the perinatal population in Phoenix with training in trauma treatments and perinatal mood disorders.
Have you been feeling disconnected? Do you often shut-down emotionally, feel overwhelmed, panicked, or ashamed? Have you struggled in relationships, waiting for and expecting the other shoe to drop? Do you find yourself giving and giving, but getting little in return? Do you frequently criticize yourself or others? You are not alone, and you are not broken. You developed these patterns to help you survive pain and difficulty. In a safe and healing environment, we can learn about and shed unhealthy patterns. You can find safety in your body and connect with yourself so you can stop surviving and start living the life you deserve!
I have worked with individuals with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, grief, trauma, and have directly served the perinatal population in Phoenix with training in trauma treatments and perinatal mood disorders.
Have you been feeling disconnected? Do you often shut-down emotionally, feel overwhelmed, panicked, or ashamed? Have you struggled in relationships, waiting for and expecting the other shoe to drop? Do you find yourself giving and giving, but getting little in return? Do you frequently criticize yourself or others? You are not alone, and you are not broken. You developed these patterns to help you survive pain and difficulty. In a safe and healing environment, we can learn about and shed unhealthy patterns. You can find safety in your body and connect with yourself so you can stop surviving and start living the life you deserve!
(623) 288-0054 View (623) 288-0054
Photo of Colleen Steinmann, Counselor in Arizona
Colleen Steinmann
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85715
Colleen has the experience to help with substance abuse, grief and loss, criminal justice involvement, sexual trauma, anxiety, depression, divorce, marital conflict, family issues, mental illness to include schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and PTSD.
My ideal client is anyone who wants help and wants to find a better solution to the problems they are facing. The issues can be anything that the client wants to work on, from past trauma to daily life stressors. My ideal client wants to have some sense of peace and achieve a life that is fulfilling and leads them to greater things. They want to be heard, understood, and accepted for who they are. Colleen has experience working with a multitude of clients ranging in age from 14-75 from various populations.
Colleen has the experience to help with substance abuse, grief and loss, criminal justice involvement, sexual trauma, anxiety, depression, divorce, marital conflict, family issues, mental illness to include schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and PTSD.
My ideal client is anyone who wants help and wants to find a better solution to the problems they are facing. The issues can be anything that the client wants to work on, from past trauma to daily life stressors. My ideal client wants to have some sense of peace and achieve a life that is fulfilling and leads them to greater things. They want to be heard, understood, and accepted for who they are. Colleen has experience working with a multitude of clients ranging in age from 14-75 from various populations.
(520) 231-2870 View (520) 231-2870
Photo of Glendine Soiseth, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arizona
Glendine Soiseth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
I have practiced in the United States and Great Britain with children, teens, and adults struggling with symptoms from past and present trauma, issues with childhood neglect and abuse, crisis, depression, anxiety, self-harm, substance abuse, bipolar, sexual abuse and acculturation issues.
WARMTH & SPACE. I welcome those who are feeling purposeless, those who may feel they are going through the motions and/or feeling emotionally flooded or numbed out. For those who've been strong, you've been strong far too long. Now is your time to be heard, listened to and experience hope again. I am EMDR trained and specialize in trauma, abuse, neglect, grief/loss, abandonment, and issues self-medicating. I have over 19 years clinical experience working with kids, teens, adults and families in the recovery and healing process. My style is to address issues with clarity and compassion.
I have practiced in the United States and Great Britain with children, teens, and adults struggling with symptoms from past and present trauma, issues with childhood neglect and abuse, crisis, depression, anxiety, self-harm, substance abuse, bipolar, sexual abuse and acculturation issues.
WARMTH & SPACE. I welcome those who are feeling purposeless, those who may feel they are going through the motions and/or feeling emotionally flooded or numbed out. For those who've been strong, you've been strong far too long. Now is your time to be heard, listened to and experience hope again. I am EMDR trained and specialize in trauma, abuse, neglect, grief/loss, abandonment, and issues self-medicating. I have over 19 years clinical experience working with kids, teens, adults and families in the recovery and healing process. My style is to address issues with clarity and compassion.
(480) 210-1686 View (480) 210-1686
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.