Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Tappahannock, VA

Photo of Staci Nicole Dungee, NCC, LPC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Staci Nicole Dungee
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Tappahannock, VA 22560
"Instead of saying I'm damaged, I'm broken, say I'm healing, I'm rediscovering myself, I'm starting over."- The Healing Place. Oftentimes we find ourselves having negative thoughts or making self-disparaging statements, not realizing the impact it has our everyday life. By coming to therapy, we will work on changing these thought patterns and improving your overall outlook on life. Additionally, we will examine past trauma or underlying causes that may be affecting your ability to function and work towards reducing and/or resolving the impact of the underlying problems on your overall functioning.
"Instead of saying I'm damaged, I'm broken, say I'm healing, I'm rediscovering myself, I'm starting over."- The Healing Place. Oftentimes we find ourselves having negative thoughts or making self-disparaging statements, not realizing the impact it has our everyday life. By coming to therapy, we will work on changing these thought patterns and improving your overall outlook on life. Additionally, we will examine past trauma or underlying causes that may be affecting your ability to function and work towards reducing and/or resolving the impact of the underlying problems on your overall functioning.
(804) 656-5619 View (804) 656-5619
Photo of Josh Johnson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Josh Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Tappahannock, VA 22560  (Online Only)
I am a therapist focused on helping people identify and overcome the patterns that are holding them in place. My work focuses on helping individuals develop trust in themselves, heal from their past, and develop skills to build a life they love. I believe in the power of vulnerability, the inherent wisdom of each person I work with and the value of laughter. I have been in practice since 2018 working with trauma, anxiety, addiction and depression. I am EMDR trained and utilize CBT, DBT, ego-state and mindfulness based approaches in my work with clients.
I am a therapist focused on helping people identify and overcome the patterns that are holding them in place. My work focuses on helping individuals develop trust in themselves, heal from their past, and develop skills to build a life they love. I believe in the power of vulnerability, the inherent wisdom of each person I work with and the value of laughter. I have been in practice since 2018 working with trauma, anxiety, addiction and depression. I am EMDR trained and utilize CBT, DBT, ego-state and mindfulness based approaches in my work with clients.
(804) 979-2333 View (804) 979-2333
Photo of Breyonna Morris, MS, LPC-R
Breyonna Morris
Resident in Counseling, MS, LPC-R
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tappahannock, VA 22560  (Online Only)
Let me pour you a cup of tea or coffee, and let’s talk virtually, that is. I want to congratulate you on completing the first step, which is seeking assistance. Allow me to help you with the next part of your journey to reach your desired destination. Mental health can be scary, but you can overcome those barriers, fears, and challenges. I am passionate about my profession and will pour my all into this partnership. I have worked with adolescents and adults for nearly a decade to overcome mental roadblocks, develop coping skills, and locate resources to provide additional support.
Let me pour you a cup of tea or coffee, and let’s talk virtually, that is. I want to congratulate you on completing the first step, which is seeking assistance. Allow me to help you with the next part of your journey to reach your desired destination. Mental health can be scary, but you can overcome those barriers, fears, and challenges. I am passionate about my profession and will pour my all into this partnership. I have worked with adolescents and adults for nearly a decade to overcome mental roadblocks, develop coping skills, and locate resources to provide additional support.
(804) 657-4319 View (804) 657-4319
Photo of undefined - Alicia Carter/Excel Intervention, EdD, LPC-R, MSPSY, MEd, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alicia Carter/Excel Intervention
Pre-Licensed Professional, EdD, LPC-R, MSPSY, MEd
Verified Verified
Tappahannock, VA 22560
Excel Intervention and Therapeutic Services offers a warm inviting atmosphere with Licensed Therapists, Residents in Counseling, Counseling Interns and QMHP’s. Alicia H. Carter is a Resident in Counseling with experience in child, adolescent and adult outpatient treatment. She completed her Master of Arts (MA) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Liberty University. Alicia utilizes relational, collaborative, cognitive behavioral, and person-centered approaches to build relationships and to meet the needs of each unique individual.
Excel Intervention and Therapeutic Services offers a warm inviting atmosphere with Licensed Therapists, Residents in Counseling, Counseling Interns and QMHP’s. Alicia H. Carter is a Resident in Counseling with experience in child, adolescent and adult outpatient treatment. She completed her Master of Arts (MA) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Liberty University. Alicia utilizes relational, collaborative, cognitive behavioral, and person-centered approaches to build relationships and to meet the needs of each unique individual.
(804) 589-4491 View (804) 589-4491

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Amanda Forsting, NCC, CCTS-I, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amanda Forsting
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, CCTS-I, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warsaw, VA 22572  (Online Only)
From the outside looking in, you are tough, resilient and there is nothing you can't manage on your own. But inwardly, you feel consumed by anxiety, hindered from memories of the past on constant replay and intrusive thoughts about the future interrupting your concentration on other things. Your sleep is imbalanced and you feel little to no motivation to care for yourself in small basic ways each day. You feel overwhelmed by life's expectations and are starting to avoid the people, places and activities that used to make you smile! You want change, to feel happy with your choices, and to be fulfilled with yourself once more.
From the outside looking in, you are tough, resilient and there is nothing you can't manage on your own. But inwardly, you feel consumed by anxiety, hindered from memories of the past on constant replay and intrusive thoughts about the future interrupting your concentration on other things. Your sleep is imbalanced and you feel little to no motivation to care for yourself in small basic ways each day. You feel overwhelmed by life's expectations and are starting to avoid the people, places and activities that used to make you smile! You want change, to feel happy with your choices, and to be fulfilled with yourself once more.
(907) 529-1957 View (907) 529-1957

Online Therapists

Photo of Martha A Halperin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Martha A Halperin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22204
Martha has more than 25 years of experience as a licensed clinical social worker helping people with trauma, bipolar disorder and symptoms of anxiety and depression. She is easy to connect with and provides a warm and nonjudgmental presence to facilitate your journey toward wholeness.
Martha has more than 25 years of experience as a licensed clinical social worker helping people with trauma, bipolar disorder and symptoms of anxiety and depression. She is easy to connect with and provides a warm and nonjudgmental presence to facilitate your journey toward wholeness.
(571) 450-9401 View (571) 450-9401
Photo of undefined - Alexandra Mai, LMSW — Anxiety, Addiction, Biplolar, LMSW
Alexandra Mai, LMSW — Anxiety, Addiction, Biplolar
LMSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
In a warm and supportive atmosphere, you will get the help that you need to recover from anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, bipolar disorder, and other mental health challenges.
Do you or your teen struggle with anxiety, depression, or substance abuse? Do you need to heal from a recent or past trauma? Are you frequently nervous, or do you have trouble sleeping? In therapy, you can build coping skills that you can start applying right away in everyday life to feel calmer and more in control. We will work to equip you with the internal resources that you need to thrive. Our goal will be resilience and sustained healing. You can gain clarity on what matters to you most. You can open up to your feelings, thoughts, and emotions. Contact me today to learn more about therapy. I am looking forward to helping!
In a warm and supportive atmosphere, you will get the help that you need to recover from anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, bipolar disorder, and other mental health challenges.
Do you or your teen struggle with anxiety, depression, or substance abuse? Do you need to heal from a recent or past trauma? Are you frequently nervous, or do you have trouble sleeping? In therapy, you can build coping skills that you can start applying right away in everyday life to feel calmer and more in control. We will work to equip you with the internal resources that you need to thrive. Our goal will be resilience and sustained healing. You can gain clarity on what matters to you most. You can open up to your feelings, thoughts, and emotions. Contact me today to learn more about therapy. I am looking forward to helping!
(301) 781-7972 View (301) 781-7972
Photo of Lisa M Brown, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa M Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Colonial Heights, VA 23834  (Online Only)
I also work frequently with general anxiety and mood disorders, including Bipolar Disorder.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with several years of experience working in outpatient practice, schools, residential treatment, therapeutic day school, and hospital settings. I provide individual and family therapy for children, adolescents, and adults.
I also work frequently with general anxiety and mood disorders, including Bipolar Disorder.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with several years of experience working in outpatient practice, schools, residential treatment, therapeutic day school, and hospital settings. I provide individual and family therapy for children, adolescents, and adults.
(804) 596-4981 View (804) 596-4981
Photo of Cynthia Diane Stroud, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cynthia Diane Stroud
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Herndon, VA 20170
Years of experience with helping clients with anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, Bipolar, loss and grief, stress, relationships, separation & divorce, LGBT, ACOA, Codependency, postpartum depression, etc.
A Licensed Professional Therapist holding a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University and a BA in Psychology. Experienced providing therapy for over 25 years helping all individuals with a variety of concerns and issues. Telehealth and/or phone sessions available, flexible hours. Compassion and empathy to all clients at all times meeting each person wherever they are in their journey of healing. I believe that everyone is capable of change, and by giving you my best, we will work together bring out the best in you!
Years of experience with helping clients with anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, Bipolar, loss and grief, stress, relationships, separation & divorce, LGBT, ACOA, Codependency, postpartum depression, etc.
A Licensed Professional Therapist holding a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University and a BA in Psychology. Experienced providing therapy for over 25 years helping all individuals with a variety of concerns and issues. Telehealth and/or phone sessions available, flexible hours. Compassion and empathy to all clients at all times meeting each person wherever they are in their journey of healing. I believe that everyone is capable of change, and by giving you my best, we will work together bring out the best in you!
(571) 380-7652 View (571) 380-7652
Photo of Kelly Morley, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelly Morley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
I conduct individual counseling for people of all ages and can help with a variety of concerns including (but definitely not limited to) depression, bipolar disorder, and anxiety.
The need for both open hearts and open minds in the field of mental health is critically urgent and I aspire to have each! My goal is to assist people who may be unsure of what they are experiencing or feel nervous about pursuing help. I believe that together we can reach your personal goals. My true calling is to help people heal while becoming advocates for themselves, their families, and society as a whole.
I conduct individual counseling for people of all ages and can help with a variety of concerns including (but definitely not limited to) depression, bipolar disorder, and anxiety.
The need for both open hearts and open minds in the field of mental health is critically urgent and I aspire to have each! My goal is to assist people who may be unsure of what they are experiencing or feel nervous about pursuing help. I believe that together we can reach your personal goals. My true calling is to help people heal while becoming advocates for themselves, their families, and society as a whole.
(757) 996-4360 View (757) 996-4360
Photo of undefined - M&K Counseling Associates Inc, LPC-DC, LPC-VA, LCPC-MD, Licensed Professional Counselor
M&K Counseling Associates Inc
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-DC, LPC-VA, LCPC-MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22209
We specialize in the use of evidence-based practices within a phase model of trauma-informed treatment for people with adverse childhood experiences; systemic trauma; LGBTQIA+ social issues and challenges; and distress and functional problems associated with anxiety disorders, mood disorders, depressive disorders, and bipolar disorders.
Hello everyone! I’m Carolyn a junior partner at M&K Counseling Associates inc. We are a group private practice offering office and video psychotherapy sessions. Our staff are highly trained professionals who operate from a holistic, trauma-informed, and systemically aware perspective. We partner with our clients by providing a safe comfortable space so they can explore their life challenges, and collectively establish goals that foster self-empowerment and self-betterment.
We specialize in the use of evidence-based practices within a phase model of trauma-informed treatment for people with adverse childhood experiences; systemic trauma; LGBTQIA+ social issues and challenges; and distress and functional problems associated with anxiety disorders, mood disorders, depressive disorders, and bipolar disorders.
Hello everyone! I’m Carolyn a junior partner at M&K Counseling Associates inc. We are a group private practice offering office and video psychotherapy sessions. Our staff are highly trained professionals who operate from a holistic, trauma-informed, and systemically aware perspective. We partner with our clients by providing a safe comfortable space so they can explore their life challenges, and collectively establish goals that foster self-empowerment and self-betterment.
(202) 978-5024 View (202) 978-5024
Photo of undefined - Poppy R. Bilbra-Jacobs, LPC, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Poppy R. Bilbra-Jacobs, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22206  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia with over 20 years' experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. Are you struggling to manage your emotions or adjust to changes? Do you want to improve your relationships? We all have times in our lives when we need extra support to cope and succeed. I have worked extensively with a spectrum of people and problems such as depression, bipolar depression, anxiety, trauma including PTSD, bereavement, autism spectrum, and parenting.
Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia with over 20 years' experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. Are you struggling to manage your emotions or adjust to changes? Do you want to improve your relationships? We all have times in our lives when we need extra support to cope and succeed. I have worked extensively with a spectrum of people and problems such as depression, bipolar depression, anxiety, trauma including PTSD, bereavement, autism spectrum, and parenting.
(571) 931-2316 View (571) 931-2316
Photo of Eeremene Piaro, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Eeremene Piaro
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22902
Hello! I'm a licensed professional therapist with four years of experience specializing in outpatient counseling. My practice encompasses working with children, adolescents, and adults dealing with various challenges, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, trauma, autism spectrum disorder, LGBTQ+ issues, life stage transition difficulties, and other mental health disorders. Taking the initiative to pursue a more fulfilling and happier life requires courage, and I commend you for taking that first step towards change. I'm here to provide you with the support and empowerment you need on your journey.
Hello! I'm a licensed professional therapist with four years of experience specializing in outpatient counseling. My practice encompasses working with children, adolescents, and adults dealing with various challenges, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, trauma, autism spectrum disorder, LGBTQ+ issues, life stage transition difficulties, and other mental health disorders. Taking the initiative to pursue a more fulfilling and happier life requires courage, and I commend you for taking that first step towards change. I'm here to provide you with the support and empowerment you need on your journey.
(434) 442-2840 x1 View (434) 442-2840 x1
Photo of Shameka Clark-Savage, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shameka Clark-Savage
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23235
I’ve worked with individuals with diagnoses of Bipolar, Major Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, and Schizophrenia.
My name is Shameka Clark-Savage and I was born and raised in Virginia. I completed my undergraduate degree in Liberal Arts & Education and Masters of Education in School/Community Counseling at Virginia State University. I completed my internship providing outpatient therapy for a Christian Counseling organization where I worked with an array of disorders and life changing situations. I have experience working with victims of domestic violence.
I’ve worked with individuals with diagnoses of Bipolar, Major Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, and Schizophrenia.
My name is Shameka Clark-Savage and I was born and raised in Virginia. I completed my undergraduate degree in Liberal Arts & Education and Masters of Education in School/Community Counseling at Virginia State University. I completed my internship providing outpatient therapy for a Christian Counseling organization where I worked with an array of disorders and life changing situations. I have experience working with victims of domestic violence.
(804) 581-1895 View (804) 581-1895
Photo of Sunday Ayodeji, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sunday Ayodeji
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
Sunday is an authentic, humorous, compassionate, and highly skilled licensed professional counselor with a specialization in Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Addiction, Anger Management, Self-Esteem issues, Marital Conflict, Trauma, and PTSD.
Sunday is an authentic, humorous, compassionate, and highly skilled licensed professional counselor with a specialization in Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Addiction, Anger Management, Self-Esteem issues, Marital Conflict, Trauma, and PTSD.
(434) 602-9731 View (434) 602-9731
Photo of Ben Thomas, MEd, LPC, CSAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ben Thomas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CSAC
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
I have experience supporting people in recovery, addressing issues related to depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
I am a clinician with over 30 years combined experience in the fields of substance abuse and mental health. I have worked for a number of years assisting adults find recovery in an outpatient substance abuse setting. In more recent years, I have worked with people of all ages experiencing a mental health and/or substance abuse crisis. I use a client centered approach and I am familiar with other treatment modalities such as cognitive behavior therapy.
I have experience supporting people in recovery, addressing issues related to depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
I am a clinician with over 30 years combined experience in the fields of substance abuse and mental health. I have worked for a number of years assisting adults find recovery in an outpatient substance abuse setting. In more recent years, I have worked with people of all ages experiencing a mental health and/or substance abuse crisis. I use a client centered approach and I am familiar with other treatment modalities such as cognitive behavior therapy.
(571) 520-9567 View (571) 520-9567
Photo of Shelby Pearce, RIC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Shelby Pearce
Pre-Licensed Professional, RIC
Verified Verified
Chesterfield, VA 23832
Shelby Pearce is a dedicated mental health professional with 5 years of experience in community mental health for adults and adolescents. Shelby specializes in a range of challenges, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, postpartum challenges, LGBTQIA+ matters, bipolar disorder, substance use, trauma, relationship and familial challenges, grief, and work-life balance. Shelby is passionate about providing individualized therapy tailored to everyone’s unique challenges and creating an open and empathetic space. Shelby holds a Master of Science in Mental Health and Rehabilitation Counseling from Virginia Commonwealth University.
Shelby Pearce is a dedicated mental health professional with 5 years of experience in community mental health for adults and adolescents. Shelby specializes in a range of challenges, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, postpartum challenges, LGBTQIA+ matters, bipolar disorder, substance use, trauma, relationship and familial challenges, grief, and work-life balance. Shelby is passionate about providing individualized therapy tailored to everyone’s unique challenges and creating an open and empathetic space. Shelby holds a Master of Science in Mental Health and Rehabilitation Counseling from Virginia Commonwealth University.
(804) 294-4860 View (804) 294-4860
Photo of Shannon Talley, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shannon Talley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23235
I have specialty experience with the treatment and management of Bipolar disorder, Schizoaffective, and Schizophrenia.
Have you ever heard someone tell you "Just get over it!"? When someone is struggling with a major life change, grief, or health challenge, this is not acceptable! Let's talk about your story, your journey, and your destination. My goal is for you to leave your appointment with a feeling of validation and direction. I love when my clients realize that they are capable and start reaching their goals. Partnering with me means that you will always have someone who is willing to walk alongside you in moments when you are feeling a little bit lost or alone. My passion is to see you find your direction and live your life to the fullest.
I have specialty experience with the treatment and management of Bipolar disorder, Schizoaffective, and Schizophrenia.
Have you ever heard someone tell you "Just get over it!"? When someone is struggling with a major life change, grief, or health challenge, this is not acceptable! Let's talk about your story, your journey, and your destination. My goal is for you to leave your appointment with a feeling of validation and direction. I love when my clients realize that they are capable and start reaching their goals. Partnering with me means that you will always have someone who is willing to walk alongside you in moments when you are feeling a little bit lost or alone. My passion is to see you find your direction and live your life to the fullest.
(804) 395-6123 View (804) 395-6123
Photo of undefined - TMTSonline.com, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
TMTSonline.com
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Yorktown, VA 23693  (Online Only)
My main focus is on affective disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder.
You may feel desperate, alone, and misunderstood. You feel like you are floating in the bottom of a lake and cannot see the light above you. Everyday, you feel like you are just going through the motions. If this describes you, then I may be the therapist for you. In my ten years of experience, I have helped people like you reach their potential and achieve the recovery that they needed. There is no set system or quick fix as others may promise, but I will walk down the road with you. My online practice provides care anywhere you are, in the comfort of your own environment.
My main focus is on affective disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder.
You may feel desperate, alone, and misunderstood. You feel like you are floating in the bottom of a lake and cannot see the light above you. Everyday, you feel like you are just going through the motions. If this describes you, then I may be the therapist for you. In my ten years of experience, I have helped people like you reach their potential and achieve the recovery that they needed. There is no set system or quick fix as others may promise, but I will walk down the road with you. My online practice provides care anywhere you are, in the comfort of your own environment.
(757) 690-2778 View (757) 690-2778
Photo of Sarah Mines, LPC, MSEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Mines
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MSEd
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23235
I have experience with a wide range of troubles including (but not limited to) adjustments to life changes, anxiety, depression, Bipolar Disorder, women's issues, persons in helping professions, trauma, and LGBTQIA+ issues.
Therapy is a place where we are allowed to be raw, imperfect, vulnerable humans in a society that expects us to be flawlessly composed. I focus my practice on personal power and can provide you with tools to work on whatever is causing your stress, whether that's in the present, past, or future. My goal in counseling is to be a source of unconditional support while we step back and explore the ways in which social forces impact(ed) the ways you understand yourself and the world. I firmly believe knowing oneself as a whole person is a crucial step to substantial and sustainable change and know we can find solutions to help you grow.
I have experience with a wide range of troubles including (but not limited to) adjustments to life changes, anxiety, depression, Bipolar Disorder, women's issues, persons in helping professions, trauma, and LGBTQIA+ issues.
Therapy is a place where we are allowed to be raw, imperfect, vulnerable humans in a society that expects us to be flawlessly composed. I focus my practice on personal power and can provide you with tools to work on whatever is causing your stress, whether that's in the present, past, or future. My goal in counseling is to be a source of unconditional support while we step back and explore the ways in which social forces impact(ed) the ways you understand yourself and the world. I firmly believe knowing oneself as a whole person is a crucial step to substantial and sustainable change and know we can find solutions to help you grow.
(757) 347-8966 View (757) 347-8966

See more therapy options for Tappahannock

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.