Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Eaton, OH

Photo of Terrance Tufts, Counselor in Eaton, OH
Terrance Tufts
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Eaton, OH 45320
I have served those with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Family Issues, etc. My ideal client is motivated to roll up their sleeves and engage in the therapeutic process. They have an open mind and can practice effective coping skills to improve their overall functioning and quality of life. They can challenge themselves to be vulnerable and practice accountability while processing their problematic thinking patterns and behaviors in a safe and non-judgmental environment. They wish to engage in therapy because they realize that they need to make a change and are willing to take a leap of faith to make it happen.
I have served those with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Family Issues, etc. My ideal client is motivated to roll up their sleeves and engage in the therapeutic process. They have an open mind and can practice effective coping skills to improve their overall functioning and quality of life. They can challenge themselves to be vulnerable and practice accountability while processing their problematic thinking patterns and behaviors in a safe and non-judgmental environment. They wish to engage in therapy because they realize that they need to make a change and are willing to take a leap of faith to make it happen.
(380) 205-2706 View (380) 205-2706
Photo of Janaye Guess, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Eaton, OH
Janaye Guess
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LISW
Verified Verified
Eaton, OH 45320
I enjoy working with people who struggle with depression and/or anxiety. Ideally, their goals would be to improve their overall functioning and quality of life. My ideal client would be able to put in the necessary work to accomplish their goals. My therapy style is authentic, empathetic, and validating. I believe in incorporating various treatment modalities that are based on the individual needs of my clients.
I enjoy working with people who struggle with depression and/or anxiety. Ideally, their goals would be to improve their overall functioning and quality of life. My ideal client would be able to put in the necessary work to accomplish their goals. My therapy style is authentic, empathetic, and validating. I believe in incorporating various treatment modalities that are based on the individual needs of my clients.
(380) 333-6012 View (380) 333-6012
Photo of Holly Mundon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Eaton, OH
Holly Mundon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LISWS , CCTP , CDCA
Verified Verified
Eaton, OH 45320
Are you having struggles in your job or relationship? Have you been diagnosed with a mental illness and need coping skills as you learn to manage all that it entails? Do you need education, support, and encouragement? I work with grief/loss, trauma, Depression, Anxiety, coping skills & boundaries, relationship and job stressors, life transitions, and general support. I am passionate about helping those who are 'helping professions' and work with health professionals and first responders dealing with secondary trauma. We will work together to set goals for taking the next steps to feel better.
Are you having struggles in your job or relationship? Have you been diagnosed with a mental illness and need coping skills as you learn to manage all that it entails? Do you need education, support, and encouragement? I work with grief/loss, trauma, Depression, Anxiety, coping skills & boundaries, relationship and job stressors, life transitions, and general support. I am passionate about helping those who are 'helping professions' and work with health professionals and first responders dealing with secondary trauma. We will work together to set goals for taking the next steps to feel better.
(937) 915-2205 View (937) 915-2205
Photo of Thomas Nemerovsky, Licensed Professional Counselor in Eaton, OH
Thomas Nemerovsky
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPCC-S, LICDC, ICCS
Verified Verified
Eaton, OH 45320
I specialize in substance use disorders, mood disorders, stress management, trauma, and PTSD. I enjoy working with clients who are motivated for change and are open to exploring strategies to help them improve their mental health and quality of life. I appreciate individuals engaged in the therapeutic process and sharing their thoughts and feelings openly, allowing for a collaborative therapeutic relationship.
I specialize in substance use disorders, mood disorders, stress management, trauma, and PTSD. I enjoy working with clients who are motivated for change and are open to exploring strategies to help them improve their mental health and quality of life. I appreciate individuals engaged in the therapeutic process and sharing their thoughts and feelings openly, allowing for a collaborative therapeutic relationship.
(614) 968-8632 View (614) 968-8632
Photo of Kimberly Foreman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Eaton, OH
Kimberly Foreman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISWS
Verified Verified
Eaton, OH 45320
My ideal client is ready to do the hard work of making real change in their life. Sometimes, people think change has to be big to start therapeutic services; it doesn’t. Sometimes, learning to breathe, decrease anxiety, and be more mindful of your strengths can become a great asset. Therapy doesn’t have to be forever; sometimes, you just need help getting through the now. I help individuals & families dealing with chronic illnesses and end of life. At times like those, crises often happen: medical conflict, spiritual conflict, familial conflict, financial concerns, housing and food insecurity.
My ideal client is ready to do the hard work of making real change in their life. Sometimes, people think change has to be big to start therapeutic services; it doesn’t. Sometimes, learning to breathe, decrease anxiety, and be more mindful of your strengths can become a great asset. Therapy doesn’t have to be forever; sometimes, you just need help getting through the now. I help individuals & families dealing with chronic illnesses and end of life. At times like those, crises often happen: medical conflict, spiritual conflict, familial conflict, financial concerns, housing and food insecurity.
(937) 870-2260 View (937) 870-2260
Photo of Sara Trembath, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Eaton, OH
Sara Trembath
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Eaton, OH 45320
I have experience working with all types of anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and complex trauma. My secondary specialties include severe chronic mental illness, relationship problems, recovery from previous domestic violence, LTGBQ+ concerns, self-harm, and developmental or attachment wounds from childhood. I continue to take continuing education classes to improve my knowledge and skills in these areas. I especially enjoy working with clients motivated to improve their lives and willing to take responsibility for their success rather than expecting others to do their work.
I have experience working with all types of anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and complex trauma. My secondary specialties include severe chronic mental illness, relationship problems, recovery from previous domestic violence, LTGBQ+ concerns, self-harm, and developmental or attachment wounds from childhood. I continue to take continuing education classes to improve my knowledge and skills in these areas. I especially enjoy working with clients motivated to improve their lives and willing to take responsibility for their success rather than expecting others to do their work.
(937) 998-4160 View (937) 998-4160
Photo of Joshua Stanley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Eaton, OH
Joshua Stanley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Eaton, OH 45320
My ideal client is an individual who is open to working as a team and benefiting from a therapeutic relationship in which honesty, accountability, and empathy are paramount. While a client’s concerns are unique and personal, there is nothing they cannot overcome through effective therapeutic interventions and a highly-trained and relatable clinician.
My ideal client is an individual who is open to working as a team and benefiting from a therapeutic relationship in which honesty, accountability, and empathy are paramount. While a client’s concerns are unique and personal, there is nothing they cannot overcome through effective therapeutic interventions and a highly-trained and relatable clinician.
(937) 721-3305 View (937) 721-3305
Photo of Jodi Lynn Hale, Licensed Professional Counselor in Eaton, OH
Jodi Lynn Hale
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Eaton, OH 45320
Not accepting new clients
Choosing the right therapist can be a difficult process. For some, making the decision to begin counseling can take a great deal of courage and conviction. As a therapist, I strive to make this process as simple as possible. My therapeutic approach is to empower individuals who have made this choice and facilitate a successful transition through the difficulties that have brought them to seek services.
Choosing the right therapist can be a difficult process. For some, making the decision to begin counseling can take a great deal of courage and conviction. As a therapist, I strive to make this process as simple as possible. My therapeutic approach is to empower individuals who have made this choice and facilitate a successful transition through the difficulties that have brought them to seek services.
(937) 265-4112 View (937) 265-4112

Online Therapists

Photo of Kristina L. Edler, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Eaton, OH
Kristina L. Edler, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Upper Arlington, OH 43221
Waitlist for new clients
With over 10 years of experience, I am able to address issues such as Depression, Anxiety, Grief, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, ADD/ADHD, Substance Abuse, and Relationship Difficulties using CBT, DBT, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, and a Solution Focused Strengths-Based approach.
Welcome adults, teens, LGBTQ, couples, and families who are in need of a therapist with a sense of humor, engaging personality, perceptive mind, and caring attitude. As a client, you will experience a safe, non-judgmental place in which to process and explore feelings related to mood disorders, relationship issues, ADHD, grief, anxiety, substance abuse, and trauma. It is my goal to provide my clients with the tools necessary to take charge of their own thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in order to reduce stress and enjoy life.
With over 10 years of experience, I am able to address issues such as Depression, Anxiety, Grief, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, ADD/ADHD, Substance Abuse, and Relationship Difficulties using CBT, DBT, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, and a Solution Focused Strengths-Based approach.
Welcome adults, teens, LGBTQ, couples, and families who are in need of a therapist with a sense of humor, engaging personality, perceptive mind, and caring attitude. As a client, you will experience a safe, non-judgmental place in which to process and explore feelings related to mood disorders, relationship issues, ADHD, grief, anxiety, substance abuse, and trauma. It is my goal to provide my clients with the tools necessary to take charge of their own thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in order to reduce stress and enjoy life.
(380) 205-2516 View (380) 205-2516
Photo of Kimberly Hayes (Haskins), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Eaton, OH
Kimberly Hayes (Haskins)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45202  (Online Only)
Kimberly has a broad range of clinical experience working with individuals and groups during her professional career in the following areas: Depression Bipolar Disorder Anxiety Disorders Substance Use Disorders Anger and Stress Management Trauma and Abuse Suicide Assessment and Risk Reduction Group Psychotherapy Couple’s Conflict.
Kimberly completed her Master’s Degree in Social Work at the University of Louisville. She has over 15 years of clinical experience across a variety of settings including outpatient specialty clinics, crisis intervention, structured outpatient programs, inpatient psychiatric facilities, large non-profits, and private practice.
Kimberly has a broad range of clinical experience working with individuals and groups during her professional career in the following areas: Depression Bipolar Disorder Anxiety Disorders Substance Use Disorders Anger and Stress Management Trauma and Abuse Suicide Assessment and Risk Reduction Group Psychotherapy Couple’s Conflict.
Kimberly completed her Master’s Degree in Social Work at the University of Louisville. She has over 15 years of clinical experience across a variety of settings including outpatient specialty clinics, crisis intervention, structured outpatient programs, inpatient psychiatric facilities, large non-profits, and private practice.
(513) 654-9769 View (513) 654-9769
Photo of Barbara J Stephens, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Eaton, OH
Barbara J Stephens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45208
I've had 30 years of experience in helping others who struggle with anxiety, depression, Bipolar, premarital and marital issues, pregnancy and postpartum depression, grief and loss, chronic or life threatening illnesses, relationship and blended family issues, career counseling, divorce recovery as well as trauma and post traumatic stress.
Like so many of us, life has had some unexpected twists and turns. Whether you are grieving, sensing a growing distance with your spouse, having trouble taking care of your family, struggling to form meaningful relationships, recovering from a divorce or break up, unsure how to help your adult children, experiencing mood swings, struggling with work or school, relocating, struggling with pregnancy or learning that being a mom or dad is a lot harder than you imagined, I can help you feel less overwhelmed and more fulfilled. My goal is to help you feel better by providing direct, honest, respectful, and supportive feedback.
I've had 30 years of experience in helping others who struggle with anxiety, depression, Bipolar, premarital and marital issues, pregnancy and postpartum depression, grief and loss, chronic or life threatening illnesses, relationship and blended family issues, career counseling, divorce recovery as well as trauma and post traumatic stress.
Like so many of us, life has had some unexpected twists and turns. Whether you are grieving, sensing a growing distance with your spouse, having trouble taking care of your family, struggling to form meaningful relationships, recovering from a divorce or break up, unsure how to help your adult children, experiencing mood swings, struggling with work or school, relocating, struggling with pregnancy or learning that being a mom or dad is a lot harder than you imagined, I can help you feel less overwhelmed and more fulfilled. My goal is to help you feel better by providing direct, honest, respectful, and supportive feedback.
(513) 854-7173 View (513) 854-7173
Photo of Dr. Bowen Marshall, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Eaton, OH
Dr. Bowen Marshall
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor , MA, LPCC-S, PhD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43086  (Online Only)
I have experience treating ADHD, anxiety, autism, bipolar disorder, depression, gender dysphoria, trauma, grief, and chronic illness.
I believe the most important question we can ask ourselves is, "What do I want?" I believe that everyone has an ability to move towards growth, healing, and fulfillment. I approach therapy from a perspective learning and believe that the more we learn about ourselves, the better able we are to make choices about how we want to move forward in life. I use an integrative framework to address each client’s individual needs. I work from a trauma informed lens and use interventions from existential, Attachment Theory, Gottman, ACT, IPT, and EFT.
I have experience treating ADHD, anxiety, autism, bipolar disorder, depression, gender dysphoria, trauma, grief, and chronic illness.
I believe the most important question we can ask ourselves is, "What do I want?" I believe that everyone has an ability to move towards growth, healing, and fulfillment. I approach therapy from a perspective learning and believe that the more we learn about ourselves, the better able we are to make choices about how we want to move forward in life. I use an integrative framework to address each client’s individual needs. I work from a trauma informed lens and use interventions from existential, Attachment Theory, Gottman, ACT, IPT, and EFT.
(380) 221-7373 View (380) 221-7373
A Better You Counseling
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPC, LPCC-S, LSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45240
As Licensed Professional Therapist we have experience in working with individuals who suffer from Depression, Anxiety, Schizophrenia, BPD, Bipolar , Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Grief, PTSD, etc.
Do you suffer from over-thinking , depressed mood, lack of appetite or overeating? Do you find it difficult to find the motivation to do the things that you once loved? Do you struggle with managing your emotions? Do you struggle with communicating how you feel and maintaining healthy relationships? Have you suffered from childhood struggles that seem to be difficult to overcome ?
As Licensed Professional Therapist we have experience in working with individuals who suffer from Depression, Anxiety, Schizophrenia, BPD, Bipolar , Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Grief, PTSD, etc.
Do you suffer from over-thinking , depressed mood, lack of appetite or overeating? Do you find it difficult to find the motivation to do the things that you once loved? Do you struggle with managing your emotions? Do you struggle with communicating how you feel and maintaining healthy relationships? Have you suffered from childhood struggles that seem to be difficult to overcome ?
(513) 643-9578 View (513) 643-9578
Photo of Mariella F Richardson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Eaton, OH
Mariella F Richardson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, MPA
Verified Verified
Blue Ash, OH 45242
Group, case management, depression, bipolar, school related issues for teens among other issues will be the focus of this dynamic duo.
My leadership work within multiple systems including the hospital system, educational system and mental health system, has gifted me with the ability to coach and mentor those into their purpose. My unique cross sectional experience allows me to be able to speak on how systems intersect, and how to best navigate multiple areas for the best outcome for clients. These areas have assisted in my ability to manage complex issues while managing relationships with individuals across silos. I work with families on complex social service issues that intersect in the areas of psychiatry, complex medical issues, child abuse and neglect and he
Group, case management, depression, bipolar, school related issues for teens among other issues will be the focus of this dynamic duo.
My leadership work within multiple systems including the hospital system, educational system and mental health system, has gifted me with the ability to coach and mentor those into their purpose. My unique cross sectional experience allows me to be able to speak on how systems intersect, and how to best navigate multiple areas for the best outcome for clients. These areas have assisted in my ability to manage complex issues while managing relationships with individuals across silos. I work with families on complex social service issues that intersect in the areas of psychiatry, complex medical issues, child abuse and neglect and he
(844) 326-5187 View (844) 326-5187
Photo of Caterina Hutchison in Eaton, OH
Caterina Hutchison
LISW
Verified Verified
Mason, OH 45040
Hello. My name is Caterina Hutchison. I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker and have been practicing in the social work field for 20 years. I have worked with many populations, including children, adults, and older adults who have been diagnosed with anxiety, phobias, depression, personality disorders, PTSD, and bipolar disorders. I utilize several counseling techniques, including CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Person-Centered, SFBT, and Supportive therapies during treatments with my clients. I have always been dedicated to helping others and will continue down this path until the end of my career.
Hello. My name is Caterina Hutchison. I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker and have been practicing in the social work field for 20 years. I have worked with many populations, including children, adults, and older adults who have been diagnosed with anxiety, phobias, depression, personality disorders, PTSD, and bipolar disorders. I utilize several counseling techniques, including CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Person-Centered, SFBT, and Supportive therapies during treatments with my clients. I have always been dedicated to helping others and will continue down this path until the end of my career.
(513) 643-5801 View (513) 643-5801
Photo of Stephanie Hickman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Eaton, OH
Stephanie Hickman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
West Chester, OH 45069
Waitlist for new clients
I work with individuals and couples experiencing marital troubles, Depression, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Borderline Personality Disorder, life stressors, and Complex Traumas.
Therapy takes Strength and Courage and I am here to help you take the first step. Hi, my name is Stephanie Hickman and I have a huge passion for empowering others and teaching them vital skills to navigate through life successfully. I offer evidence Based treatment services to help you learn how to manage the stressors of everyday life, relationships, and difficult situations. I am an Independently Licensed Social Worker with 15 years of experience. I pride myself in meeting people where they are and helping them explore what treatment modality is the best fit for them.
I work with individuals and couples experiencing marital troubles, Depression, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Borderline Personality Disorder, life stressors, and Complex Traumas.
Therapy takes Strength and Courage and I am here to help you take the first step. Hi, my name is Stephanie Hickman and I have a huge passion for empowering others and teaching them vital skills to navigate through life successfully. I offer evidence Based treatment services to help you learn how to manage the stressors of everyday life, relationships, and difficult situations. I am an Independently Licensed Social Worker with 15 years of experience. I pride myself in meeting people where they are and helping them explore what treatment modality is the best fit for them.
(513) 854-9236 View (513) 854-9236
Photo of Lindsey Whittemore, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Eaton, OH
Lindsey Whittemore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Dublin, OH 43016
Lindsey Whittemore offers specialized support for individuals navigating various mental health challenges in Ohio. With a focus on neurodivergent populations such as ADHD and ASD, Lindsey extends her expertise to address depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, tailoring her approach to meet each client’s unique needs. For those struggling with ADHD, anxiety, or depression, Lindsey provides a safe and understanding space to explore and overcome these challenges. She is particularly passionate about helping individuals cope with PTSD or trauma-related issues.
Lindsey Whittemore offers specialized support for individuals navigating various mental health challenges in Ohio. With a focus on neurodivergent populations such as ADHD and ASD, Lindsey extends her expertise to address depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, tailoring her approach to meet each client’s unique needs. For those struggling with ADHD, anxiety, or depression, Lindsey provides a safe and understanding space to explore and overcome these challenges. She is particularly passionate about helping individuals cope with PTSD or trauma-related issues.
(740) 265-2525 View (740) 265-2525
Photo of Adrienne Cenci, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Eaton, OH
Adrienne Cenci
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45230
Adrienne Cenci, LPCC-S. Everyone has their own unique story to tell. Adrienne utilizes a collaborative approach with clients incorporating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) which include mindfulness and stress management techniques. She provides individual counseling for adults ages 18 to 64. Her areas of specialty include Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, trauma, grief, and substance use disorders. Her work is grounded in the belief that we can heal from the past, so that we can live fully in the present.
Adrienne Cenci, LPCC-S. Everyone has their own unique story to tell. Adrienne utilizes a collaborative approach with clients incorporating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) which include mindfulness and stress management techniques. She provides individual counseling for adults ages 18 to 64. Her areas of specialty include Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, trauma, grief, and substance use disorders. Her work is grounded in the belief that we can heal from the past, so that we can live fully in the present.
(513) 654-6698 View (513) 654-6698
Photo of Robert William Frazier Jr., Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Eaton, OH
Robert William Frazier Jr.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43220  (Online Only)
I specialize in Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Grief, Post-Traumatic Stress, Addiction, etc,.
I am currently accepting new clients via Telehealth due to COVID-19 (video conferencing or telephone). I provide a safe and confidential environment for healing; either in an individual or group setting. "We don't control what happens in life but we can challenge ourselves to control how we respond to life. That is our true strength and power". My experience in counseling those who struggle with life's overwhelming issues has allowed me to see the miracle that happens when they unlock their inner values and strength. I welcome you to join me in your journey to uncover, discover and recover the real you that was lost.
I specialize in Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Grief, Post-Traumatic Stress, Addiction, etc,.
I am currently accepting new clients via Telehealth due to COVID-19 (video conferencing or telephone). I provide a safe and confidential environment for healing; either in an individual or group setting. "We don't control what happens in life but we can challenge ourselves to control how we respond to life. That is our true strength and power". My experience in counseling those who struggle with life's overwhelming issues has allowed me to see the miracle that happens when they unlock their inner values and strength. I welcome you to join me in your journey to uncover, discover and recover the real you that was lost.
(380) 205-8638 View (380) 205-8638
Photo of Jane Miller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Eaton, OH
Jane Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45202  (Online Only)
I have been in private practice for 30 years and my work is my passion. It is such a gift to be trusted by clients and to work together with a sense of safety. I act as a catalyst for change, growth and transformation. I deeply believe I was born to follow my dream of helping others live with the ability to fulfill their dreams. I provide individual psychotherapy for adults. I specialize in lesbian/ gay/bisexual/transgender issues, family/interpersonal relationships, chronic/ terminal illnesses, generalized anxiety disorders, bipolar, depression, and trauma.
I have been in private practice for 30 years and my work is my passion. It is such a gift to be trusted by clients and to work together with a sense of safety. I act as a catalyst for change, growth and transformation. I deeply believe I was born to follow my dream of helping others live with the ability to fulfill their dreams. I provide individual psychotherapy for adults. I specialize in lesbian/ gay/bisexual/transgender issues, family/interpersonal relationships, chronic/ terminal illnesses, generalized anxiety disorders, bipolar, depression, and trauma.
(614) 756-6810 View (614) 756-6810

See more therapy options for Eaton

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.