Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Witbank

Photo of Emile Wilmans - Counselling Psychologist - Online & Face-to-Face, Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Couns. Psych.
Counselling Psychologist - Online & Face-to-Face
Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Couns. Psych.
Serves Area
I follow an integrative and style shift therapy approach via ONLINE and/or Face-to-Face counselling. I am trained in General & Eco Systemic Theories, Stratified Systems Theory, Cognitive Therapy, Behaviour Therapy, Person Centered Therapy, Multimodal Therapy, Reality Therapy, Crisis Intervention, Problem Solving Therapy, Clinical Hypnotherapy, various Trauma therapies, Solution Focused Therapy, as well as multiple treatment related psychometric and other treatment related assessment instruments. I am also trained in Multiple Industrial/Organisational assessment instruments (CPA, MBTI, BarOn-EQi, PPA, DISC, etc.).
I follow an integrative and style shift therapy approach via ONLINE and/or Face-to-Face counselling. I am trained in General & Eco Systemic Theories, Stratified Systems Theory, Cognitive Therapy, Behaviour Therapy, Person Centered Therapy, Multimodal Therapy, Reality Therapy, Crisis Intervention, Problem Solving Therapy, Clinical Hypnotherapy, various Trauma therapies, Solution Focused Therapy, as well as multiple treatment related psychometric and other treatment related assessment instruments. I am also trained in Multiple Industrial/Organisational assessment instruments (CPA, MBTI, BarOn-EQi, PPA, DISC, etc.).
087 250 2042 x57 View 087 250 2042 x57
Photo of Amina Mwaikambo, Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Couns. Psych.
Amina Mwaikambo
Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Couns. Psych.
Serves Area
My approach to therapy includes providing psychological support to people, with a consciousness of their contexts and intersections. Areas of practice include psychotherapeutic interventions for depression, anxiety, complex trauma and post-traumatic stress, psychoeducation and trauma debriefing. I also conduct psychological assessments (career, occupational placement, intelligence, aptitude, personality, neuro, and projective assessments). In my work I advocate for inclusivity and access to mental health and rehabilitation services. I have conducted research around the intersections of identity, personality, power and violence.
My approach to therapy includes providing psychological support to people, with a consciousness of their contexts and intersections. Areas of practice include psychotherapeutic interventions for depression, anxiety, complex trauma and post-traumatic stress, psychoeducation and trauma debriefing. I also conduct psychological assessments (career, occupational placement, intelligence, aptitude, personality, neuro, and projective assessments). In my work I advocate for inclusivity and access to mental health and rehabilitation services. I have conducted research around the intersections of identity, personality, power and violence.
087 250 2748 x60 View 087 250 2748 x60
Photo of Pearl Antonette Viljoen, Psychologist, MPsych, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
Pearl Antonette Viljoen
Psychologist, MPsych, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
Serves Area
I like to work with individuals that realise that they need and deserve help, and someone who is ready and willing to work on themselves. Someone who wants to improve their coping mechanisms, their ability to manage stress, to manage their emotions, to deal with adjustment, to deal with change, to deal with past and current trauma, to learn to love and nurture themselves and improve their relationships wit others. People who want to shift old patterns that no longer serve them.
I like to work with individuals that realise that they need and deserve help, and someone who is ready and willing to work on themselves. Someone who wants to improve their coping mechanisms, their ability to manage stress, to manage their emotions, to deal with adjustment, to deal with change, to deal with past and current trauma, to learn to love and nurture themselves and improve their relationships wit others. People who want to shift old patterns that no longer serve them.
087 250 0719 x30 View 087 250 0719 x30

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Nkateko Ndala-Magoro - Pretoria Psychologists (Pty)Ltd., Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Couns. Psych.
Pretoria Psychologists (Pty)Ltd.
Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Couns. Psych.
Serves Area
Pretoria Psychologists (Pty) Ltd boats more than 40 years of combined experience in mental health services. The practice was established in the 1990s by Dr. Elaine Bing and Jacqui van Staden. Currently, this dynamic practice is managed by Nkateko Ndala-Magoro. We are a multidisciplinary team who offer a range of services within our expertise and speak all 11 South African languages.
Pretoria Psychologists (Pty) Ltd boats more than 40 years of combined experience in mental health services. The practice was established in the 1990s by Dr. Elaine Bing and Jacqui van Staden. Currently, this dynamic practice is managed by Nkateko Ndala-Magoro. We are a multidisciplinary team who offer a range of services within our expertise and speak all 11 South African languages.
087 250 0592 x91 View 087 250 0592 x91
Photo of Mohammed Uzair Bhamjee, Psychologist, MSocSci, HPCSA - Couns. Psych.
Mohammed Uzair Bhamjee
Psychologist, MSocSci, HPCSA - Couns. Psych.
I am a dedicated and passionate counselling psychologist with extensive experience in addressing various forms of trauma. While trained in multiple therapeutic modalities, I have a particular interest in the family systems approach and BrainWorking Recursive Therapy (BWRT). I remain flexible in integrating psychological techniques tailored to individual needs, treatment objectives, and therapeutic direction. My practice, based in Saxonwold, Johannesburg, focuses on trauma, trauma debriefing, and professional athletes, and extends services to surrounding areas including Parktown, Rosebank, Houghton, and Greenside.
I am a dedicated and passionate counselling psychologist with extensive experience in addressing various forms of trauma. While trained in multiple therapeutic modalities, I have a particular interest in the family systems approach and BrainWorking Recursive Therapy (BWRT). I remain flexible in integrating psychological techniques tailored to individual needs, treatment objectives, and therapeutic direction. My practice, based in Saxonwold, Johannesburg, focuses on trauma, trauma debriefing, and professional athletes, and extends services to surrounding areas including Parktown, Rosebank, Houghton, and Greenside.
066 230 9878 View 066 230 9878
Photo of Busisiwe Nyeka, Psychologist, MPsych, HPCSA - Couns. Psych.
Busisiwe Nyeka
Psychologist, MPsych, HPCSA - Couns. Psych.
Serves Area
Counselling Psychologist in Private Practice & Consultant. CEO & Founder of Mind&Soul-Psychological Services. At Mind&Soul-Psychological Services, we provide compassionate and evidence-based interventions to help individuals navigate life’s challenges. Our expertise, allows us to offer tailored interventions based on the individual's needs. Approaches designed to promote mental well-being and optimize functioning. The journey can be overwhelming initially; however, the process can be filled with rich learnings of individual, interpersonal, and professional development. Acquiring effective coping skills to deal with challenges.
Counselling Psychologist in Private Practice & Consultant. CEO & Founder of Mind&Soul-Psychological Services. At Mind&Soul-Psychological Services, we provide compassionate and evidence-based interventions to help individuals navigate life’s challenges. Our expertise, allows us to offer tailored interventions based on the individual's needs. Approaches designed to promote mental well-being and optimize functioning. The journey can be overwhelming initially; however, the process can be filled with rich learnings of individual, interpersonal, and professional development. Acquiring effective coping skills to deal with challenges.
087 250 0902 x14 View 087 250 0902 x14

Online Therapists

Photo of Phile Moller, Psychologist, MSocSci, HPCSA - Couns. Psych.
Phile Moller
Psychologist, MSocSci, HPCSA - Couns. Psych.
I assist individual clients who experience a range of difficulties including stress, burnout, depression, anxiety, bipolar, addiction (including sex and gambling), adult ADHD, relationship difficulties, trauma, childhood trauma, grief and loss, and adjustment to life changes.
I am a registered and experienced Counselling Psychologist in Pretoria East at the Satori Health Centre. I am in the fortunate position to be able to listen to people's stories and I am always profoundly humbled by it. Therapy is a way of storytelling, of unraveling, and becoming whole and I can assist you on this journey to navigate life. I see adults and adolescents for individual therapy and also provide couples therapy.
I assist individual clients who experience a range of difficulties including stress, burnout, depression, anxiety, bipolar, addiction (including sex and gambling), adult ADHD, relationship difficulties, trauma, childhood trauma, grief and loss, and adjustment to life changes.
I am a registered and experienced Counselling Psychologist in Pretoria East at the Satori Health Centre. I am in the fortunate position to be able to listen to people's stories and I am always profoundly humbled by it. Therapy is a way of storytelling, of unraveling, and becoming whole and I can assist you on this journey to navigate life. I see adults and adolescents for individual therapy and also provide couples therapy.
087 250 0592 x50 View 087 250 0592 x50
Photo of Matsedeso Nthako, Psychologist, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
Matsedeso Nthako
Psychologist, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
Midrand 1686
I primarily focus of the alleviation of stress, anxiety, depression, psychosomatic complaints, relationships issues, bipolar disorders, personality disorders and childhood disorders; to help build a healthy sense of self awareness and self concept.
I'm a realistic optimist with a growth mindset and strongly believe that resilience can be build in anyone. I'm experienced in working with diverse populations to address various mental health issues. Driven by the values of Ubuntu, my aim is to apply evidence-based, integrative treatment plans for children and adults in order to obtain optimal functioning.
I primarily focus of the alleviation of stress, anxiety, depression, psychosomatic complaints, relationships issues, bipolar disorders, personality disorders and childhood disorders; to help build a healthy sense of self awareness and self concept.
I'm a realistic optimist with a growth mindset and strongly believe that resilience can be build in anyone. I'm experienced in working with diverse populations to address various mental health issues. Driven by the values of Ubuntu, my aim is to apply evidence-based, integrative treatment plans for children and adults in order to obtain optimal functioning.
087 250 0412 x24 View 087 250 0412 x24
Photo of Thabo Maketekete, Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
Thabo Maketekete
Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
Randburg 2169
My work stretches across a broad spectrum of mental health concerns, including adjustment issues, traumatic stress reactions, depression, bipolar, anxiety, grief, addiction, ADHD, family and relationship problems.
As a licensed Clinical Psychologist, Wellness Consultant, and Trainer, I offer comprehensive mental and behavioural health care to individuals, couples, and families from diverse backgrounds. With experience in both public and private institutions, I utilise psychodynamic therapeutic techniques to create a non-judgmental, supportive, and empowering therapy atmosphere. Additionally, I design customised wellness programs for organisations to enhance well-being, productivity, and satisfaction. Take the first step and schedule an appointment to begin the process of exploration and healing.
My work stretches across a broad spectrum of mental health concerns, including adjustment issues, traumatic stress reactions, depression, bipolar, anxiety, grief, addiction, ADHD, family and relationship problems.
As a licensed Clinical Psychologist, Wellness Consultant, and Trainer, I offer comprehensive mental and behavioural health care to individuals, couples, and families from diverse backgrounds. With experience in both public and private institutions, I utilise psychodynamic therapeutic techniques to create a non-judgmental, supportive, and empowering therapy atmosphere. Additionally, I design customised wellness programs for organisations to enhance well-being, productivity, and satisfaction. Take the first step and schedule an appointment to begin the process of exploration and healing.
087 250 0782 x42 View 087 250 0782 x42
Photo of Franchele Heiberg, Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
Franchele Heiberg
Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Wapadrand 0050
My areas of interest include: Interpersonal/Relational Difficulties, Mood (Depression/Anxiety/ Bipolar), Trauma, Eating Disorders, Bariatric Patients, Challenges specific to Adolescence, Stress and Burnout, LGBTQI+ Challenges, Personality, and Addiction.
I am a Clinical Psychologist registered as an independent practitioner with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA). I have been in full time private practice since 2019. In private practice, I predominantly offer individual therapy to adults and teenagers (from 12+ years) who struggle with their mental well-being. In addition, I offer a range of psychological assessments covering emotional and personality functioning, as well as psychopathology.
My areas of interest include: Interpersonal/Relational Difficulties, Mood (Depression/Anxiety/ Bipolar), Trauma, Eating Disorders, Bariatric Patients, Challenges specific to Adolescence, Stress and Burnout, LGBTQI+ Challenges, Personality, and Addiction.
I am a Clinical Psychologist registered as an independent practitioner with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA). I have been in full time private practice since 2019. In private practice, I predominantly offer individual therapy to adults and teenagers (from 12+ years) who struggle with their mental well-being. In addition, I offer a range of psychological assessments covering emotional and personality functioning, as well as psychopathology.
087 250 2042 x73 View 087 250 2042 x73
Photo of Stephanie Barrett, Registered Counsellor, HPCSA - Counsellor
Stephanie Barrett
Registered Counsellor, HPCSA - Counsellor
Fourways 2055
I deliver a holistic approach including Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and other evidence-based treatments to clients with a wide range of emotional, Behavioural, and adjustment problems, such as anxiety, stress, depression and bipolar.
If you have any questions or just want to explore the process before any commitment, please contact me and we will make a plan.
I deliver a holistic approach including Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and other evidence-based treatments to clients with a wide range of emotional, Behavioural, and adjustment problems, such as anxiety, stress, depression and bipolar.
If you have any questions or just want to explore the process before any commitment, please contact me and we will make a plan.
087 250 0412 x84 View 087 250 0412 x84
Photo of Monareng Moropa, Psychologist, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
Monareng Moropa
Psychologist, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
3 Endorsed
I offer psychotherapy, assessment and counseling services to children, teens and adults with the following challenges and disorders, Behavioural Issues (children an teens) Depression, anxiety, marital problems, grief, Bipolar and Personality disorder), PSTD/Trauma, Divorce Domestic Abuse, Parenting, Relationship Issues, Anger Management, Alcohol Use, etc.
My name is Monareng Moropa and i am here to say "Own Your Mental health" My role in society as a clinical psychologist is to offer psychotherapy, psychological assessment and counselling services, to individuals, couples and families. In life people go through life experiences that affect them emotionally and how they feel. This lead to them developing some psychological distress, affecting their daily lives. Therefore, the services that i offer will assist in assessing, diagnosing and treating the psychological distress through a conversational dialogue.
I offer psychotherapy, assessment and counseling services to children, teens and adults with the following challenges and disorders, Behavioural Issues (children an teens) Depression, anxiety, marital problems, grief, Bipolar and Personality disorder), PSTD/Trauma, Divorce Domestic Abuse, Parenting, Relationship Issues, Anger Management, Alcohol Use, etc.
My name is Monareng Moropa and i am here to say "Own Your Mental health" My role in society as a clinical psychologist is to offer psychotherapy, psychological assessment and counselling services, to individuals, couples and families. In life people go through life experiences that affect them emotionally and how they feel. This lead to them developing some psychological distress, affecting their daily lives. Therefore, the services that i offer will assist in assessing, diagnosing and treating the psychological distress through a conversational dialogue.
087 250 2910 x10 View 087 250 2910 x10
Photo of Jon Pedrosa, Psychologist, MSc, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
Jon Pedrosa
Psychologist, MSc, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
Edenvale 1609
Areas of interest • Mood Disorders (Depression, Bipolar) • Anxiety disorders (Phobias, OCD) • Relationship difficulties • Personality Disorders • Trauma (Post-Traumatic Stress disorder) • Grief & Bereavement • Parental Alienation Syndrome (Individual therapy/Group therapy)
Jon Pedrosa assists individuals/couples/families with psychological, emotional, and behavioural difficulties and challenges. Psychotherapy is a medium of talk therapy, which facilitates a process of development and personal growth. The mode of therapy practiced is psychodynamic in nature with a humanistic approach. This means that the therapeutic aim is to identify internal conflicts which the patient may be unaware of that manifests and hinders present behaviour. The goal is assisting the patient to gain self-awareness, insight, and an understanding of how past experiences influences present behaviour.
Areas of interest • Mood Disorders (Depression, Bipolar) • Anxiety disorders (Phobias, OCD) • Relationship difficulties • Personality Disorders • Trauma (Post-Traumatic Stress disorder) • Grief & Bereavement • Parental Alienation Syndrome (Individual therapy/Group therapy)
Jon Pedrosa assists individuals/couples/families with psychological, emotional, and behavioural difficulties and challenges. Psychotherapy is a medium of talk therapy, which facilitates a process of development and personal growth. The mode of therapy practiced is psychodynamic in nature with a humanistic approach. This means that the therapeutic aim is to identify internal conflicts which the patient may be unaware of that manifests and hinders present behaviour. The goal is assisting the patient to gain self-awareness, insight, and an understanding of how past experiences influences present behaviour.
087 250 0592 x79 View 087 250 0592 x79
Photo of Rivonia Therapy Centre - Rivonia Therapy Centre , Psychologist, MSocSci, HPCSA - Couns. Psych.
Rivonia Therapy Centre
Psychologist, MSocSci, HPCSA - Couns. Psych.
Edenburg 2128
We specialize in the following areas: Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorders, Stress, Grief and Bereavement, Interpersonal Difficulties, Trauma, Self-awareness and Self-development, Life Adjustments
Rivonia Therapy Centre has a team of Clinical, Counselling and Educational Psychologists. We offer psychotherapeutic services for issues such as relationship difficulties, mood disorders, and life changes adjustments. We also offer services for scholastic, cognitive functioning and emotional assessments.
We specialize in the following areas: Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorders, Stress, Grief and Bereavement, Interpersonal Difficulties, Trauma, Self-awareness and Self-development, Life Adjustments
Rivonia Therapy Centre has a team of Clinical, Counselling and Educational Psychologists. We offer psychotherapeutic services for issues such as relationship difficulties, mood disorders, and life changes adjustments. We also offer services for scholastic, cognitive functioning and emotional assessments.
011 234 0450 View 011 234 0450
Michelle Beneke
Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
Pretoria 0002
I am a therapist who work with individuals. I see children, adolescents and adults. Each patient is a person with a unique biography which include both their joys and struggles. I focus on the person and through our relationship I do my best to help them to understand their thoughts and feelings and to get to know why they feel and behave the way they do. On our journey together we explore whatever they bring, be it a thought, a feeling, a relationship, a dream, a stuckness or a symptom. Therapy, like other relationships, can be difficult. The difference is that this relationship’s purpose is to bring healing and acceptance
I am a therapist who work with individuals. I see children, adolescents and adults. Each patient is a person with a unique biography which include both their joys and struggles. I focus on the person and through our relationship I do my best to help them to understand their thoughts and feelings and to get to know why they feel and behave the way they do. On our journey together we explore whatever they bring, be it a thought, a feeling, a relationship, a dream, a stuckness or a symptom. Therapy, like other relationships, can be difficult. The difference is that this relationship’s purpose is to bring healing and acceptance
087 250 0412 x15 View 087 250 0412 x15
Photo of Jamie Hyslop, Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
Jamie Hyslop
Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
People usually seek help from a psychologist when they want something to change. This desire for change may be motivated by painful thoughts and feelings, a situation at work, school, or at home, a challenging event, or relationships with others. Sometimes people work with a psychologist because they want a better understanding of themselves, to change behaviours, or to develop new skills to support their well-being. If any of this is true for you or for someone you care about, getting in contact with a psychologist is a useful step to take.
People usually seek help from a psychologist when they want something to change. This desire for change may be motivated by painful thoughts and feelings, a situation at work, school, or at home, a challenging event, or relationships with others. Sometimes people work with a psychologist because they want a better understanding of themselves, to change behaviours, or to develop new skills to support their well-being. If any of this is true for you or for someone you care about, getting in contact with a psychologist is a useful step to take.
087 250 0616 x46 View 087 250 0616 x46
Photo of Samiera Sedick, Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
Samiera Sedick
Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
Saxonwold 2196
Like the ancient art of Kintsugi, I believe that healing is not about erasing cracks but embracing them - filling the broken pieces with resilience, self-compassion and strength. Life's challenges can leave us feeling shattered, but with the self-reflection, self-awareness and the right support, those fractures can become part of a more beautiful, empowered version of ourselves. As a Clinical Psychologist, I help individuals navigate a vast array of mental health issues and life transitions, guiding them towards growth and wholeness. Together we can turn pain into wisdom and struggles into gold.
Like the ancient art of Kintsugi, I believe that healing is not about erasing cracks but embracing them - filling the broken pieces with resilience, self-compassion and strength. Life's challenges can leave us feeling shattered, but with the self-reflection, self-awareness and the right support, those fractures can become part of a more beautiful, empowered version of ourselves. As a Clinical Psychologist, I help individuals navigate a vast array of mental health issues and life transitions, guiding them towards growth and wholeness. Together we can turn pain into wisdom and struggles into gold.
087 250 2148 x24 View 087 250 2148 x24
Photo of Kylie Grobler, Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
Kylie Grobler
Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
I am a gentle, compassionate and meticulous Clinical Psychologist with experience in psychiatric and medical hospital settings. I have a deep understanding of psychological assessments, diagnosis and treatment. I have a special interest in working with complex mood and personality disorders, anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorders.
I am a gentle, compassionate and meticulous Clinical Psychologist with experience in psychiatric and medical hospital settings. I have a deep understanding of psychological assessments, diagnosis and treatment. I have a special interest in working with complex mood and personality disorders, anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorders.
087 250 0616 x83 View 087 250 0616 x83
Photo of Makhauta Innocentia Hlaodi, Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Couns. Psych.
Makhauta Innocentia Hlaodi
Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Couns. Psych.
My work aims towards facilitating emotional insight, healing, growth and meaningful change in the various areas of an individual's life. I have a special interest in trauma, adjustment issues, depression, anxiety, grieve and bereavement, relationship issues, work-related stress, academic concerns and other stress related problems.
My work aims towards facilitating emotional insight, healing, growth and meaningful change in the various areas of an individual's life. I have a special interest in trauma, adjustment issues, depression, anxiety, grieve and bereavement, relationship issues, work-related stress, academic concerns and other stress related problems.
087 250 2464 x28 View 087 250 2464 x28
Photo of Lwanele Khasu - Oasis Mental Wellness Hub, Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
Oasis Mental Wellness Hub
Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
Sandton 2196
Our ideal clients are individuals, couples, and families seeking to enhance their emotional well-being, improve communication, and resolve conflicts. They face various challenges, including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and life transitions. Our clients strive for personal growth, healthier relationships, and a balanced life. They value a supportive and understanding environment where they can express themselves freely. We cater to a diverse clientele with services offered in Zulu, Xhosa, Sotho, Sepedi, Afrikaans, English, and Tswana, ensuring that language is never a barrier to receiving quality care
Our ideal clients are individuals, couples, and families seeking to enhance their emotional well-being, improve communication, and resolve conflicts. They face various challenges, including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and life transitions. Our clients strive for personal growth, healthier relationships, and a balanced life. They value a supportive and understanding environment where they can express themselves freely. We cater to a diverse clientele with services offered in Zulu, Xhosa, Sotho, Sepedi, Afrikaans, English, and Tswana, ensuring that language is never a barrier to receiving quality care
087 250 0592 x72 View 087 250 0592 x72
Bipolar Disorder Counsellors

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.