Bipolar Disorder Counselling in West End, QLD

Photo of Dr Nicole Hess, PhD, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Dr Nicole Hess
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
West End, QLD 4101
Therapies include; Interpersonal Social Rhythm's Therapy ( Bipolar Disorder), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Schema Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), Play Therapy, WestMead Feelings Program (emotional awareness for children with Autism).
Dr Nicole is both founder and director of A to Z Psychology and A to Z Learning Pathways. Nicole aims to empower her clients to explore, unlock, and build on their innate capacity for growth and development. The mantra of A to Z Learning Pathways and A to Z psychology of , "Enhancing minds", is applied across all age groups. The letters "A to Z" represent the unique nature and needs of each individual client. Nicole works with each client to formulate treatment plans, assessment protocols, and advocacy service (usually for educational support) that best meet individual needs. Nicole works with children, teens,and older individuals.
Therapies include; Interpersonal Social Rhythm's Therapy ( Bipolar Disorder), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Schema Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), Play Therapy, WestMead Feelings Program (emotional awareness for children with Autism).
Dr Nicole is both founder and director of A to Z Psychology and A to Z Learning Pathways. Nicole aims to empower her clients to explore, unlock, and build on their innate capacity for growth and development. The mantra of A to Z Learning Pathways and A to Z psychology of , "Enhancing minds", is applied across all age groups. The letters "A to Z" represent the unique nature and needs of each individual client. Nicole works with each client to formulate treatment plans, assessment protocols, and advocacy service (usually for educational support) that best meet individual needs. Nicole works with children, teens,and older individuals.
(07) 2100 4824 View (07) 2100 4824
Photo of Rebecca Kirkwood, PACFA, Counsellor
Rebecca Kirkwood
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
West End, QLD 4101
As a PACFA accredited counsellor with 8 years of experience, I have a particular interest in supporting clients through their trauma, mental health concerns, and issues related to alcohol and other drugs. My passion lies in helping clients find their path through difficult times, and I do so with empathy and professionalism.
As a PACFA accredited counsellor with 8 years of experience, I have a particular interest in supporting clients through their trauma, mental health concerns, and issues related to alcohol and other drugs. My passion lies in helping clients find their path through difficult times, and I do so with empathy and professionalism.
(07) 2100 4246 View (07) 2100 4246
Photo of James Le Lievre, PhD, PsyBA General, Psychologist
James Le Lievre
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
West End, QLD 4101
James specialises in creating clarity where none exists. Clarity can help when we feel confused or energy and interests have fallen away. And it can help when we encounter a large obstacle and can’t see a way forward. James believes that once we have clarity we can then determine what is within our control and what is not. James is primarily a solution focused therapist and believes that we will benefit from finding a way forward. He likes to break the journey down into a step by step path into a better future. He promotes self expression and the creation of personal boundaries for safety.
James specialises in creating clarity where none exists. Clarity can help when we feel confused or energy and interests have fallen away. And it can help when we encounter a large obstacle and can’t see a way forward. James believes that once we have clarity we can then determine what is within our control and what is not. James is primarily a solution focused therapist and believes that we will benefit from finding a way forward. He likes to break the journey down into a step by step path into a better future. He promotes self expression and the creation of personal boundaries for safety.
(07) 2100 4140 View (07) 2100 4140
Photo of Christine Bagley-Jones, PsychD, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Christine Bagley-Jones
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
West End, QLD 4101
Are you looking for more out of life but not sure how to get it? Whether you are struggling with unhealthy habits that are holding you back or deep issues from the past that still need to be resolved, counselling can be the key to recovery. Its not necessary to live with Depression, Anxiety and general disappointment. You deserve to enjoy your time engaging with people you love and love you in return. Find meaning in your pursuits and most of all learn how to have more fun and joy so that every day is not a grind. Don’t let time slip by with you feeling stuck and unfulfilled. Learn how to make the changes to deepen your awareness.
Are you looking for more out of life but not sure how to get it? Whether you are struggling with unhealthy habits that are holding you back or deep issues from the past that still need to be resolved, counselling can be the key to recovery. Its not necessary to live with Depression, Anxiety and general disappointment. You deserve to enjoy your time engaging with people you love and love you in return. Find meaning in your pursuits and most of all learn how to have more fun and joy so that every day is not a grind. Don’t let time slip by with you feeling stuck and unfulfilled. Learn how to make the changes to deepen your awareness.
(07) 3184 8546 View (07) 3184 8546
Photo of Maria Piedrabuena - Living Dreams Disability Services, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Living Dreams Disability Services
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
West End, QLD 4101
Maria is a passionate Registered Psychologist who provides a safe and validating environment to children, adolescents and adults with a broad range of presentations including Depression, Anxiety, Personality Disorders including BPD, trauma, PTSD, Autism, ADHD, grief and bereavement, relationship difficulties, parental burnout and low self-esteem. Drawing from personal experience, Maria knows first hand how daunting seeking help can be. Thus, she strives to create a comfortable and welcoming environment to ensure all clients feel at home and can safely begin their journey to better understand themselves.
Maria is a passionate Registered Psychologist who provides a safe and validating environment to children, adolescents and adults with a broad range of presentations including Depression, Anxiety, Personality Disorders including BPD, trauma, PTSD, Autism, ADHD, grief and bereavement, relationship difficulties, parental burnout and low self-esteem. Drawing from personal experience, Maria knows first hand how daunting seeking help can be. Thus, she strives to create a comfortable and welcoming environment to ensure all clients feel at home and can safely begin their journey to better understand themselves.
(03) 7500 5891 View (03) 7500 5891
Photo of Eric Lee - Eric Lee - His, Her & Their Therapy
Eric Lee - His, Her & Their Therapy
Verified Verified
West End, QLD 4101
I am a mental health occupational therapist. I am passionate about working with people and committed to supporting them in exploring a healthy life balance. It is professionally satisfying to see people utilise a range of strategies that encourage them to manage challenging emotions, harness their coping skills, and which also empower them to thrive in daily life.
I am a mental health occupational therapist. I am passionate about working with people and committed to supporting them in exploring a healthy life balance. It is professionally satisfying to see people utilise a range of strategies that encourage them to manage challenging emotions, harness their coping skills, and which also empower them to thrive in daily life.
(07) 2100 4386 View (07) 2100 4386

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Suzanne Klotz - People Psychology, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Suzanne Klotz - People Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Brisbane City, QLD 4000
Get help by seeing Suzanne, who has extensive experience with: Anxiety, Panic Attacks & Anxiety Stress, Phobias (Fear of specific things / situations), Depression, Grief & Loss, Bereavement, Relationship Issues, Couples Counselling, Marriage Counselling, Premarital Counselling, Workplace Stress, Alcohol Abuse & Dependency, PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), Trauma, Adjustment Disorder, ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) & ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder), Adoption Issues, Anger Management, Bipolar Disorder (BD), Career Guidance, Chronic Pain, Codependency Disorder & Divorce Counselling
Get help by seeing Suzanne, who has extensive experience with: Anxiety, Panic Attacks & Anxiety Stress, Phobias (Fear of specific things / situations), Depression, Grief & Loss, Bereavement, Relationship Issues, Couples Counselling, Marriage Counselling, Premarital Counselling, Workplace Stress, Alcohol Abuse & Dependency, PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), Trauma, Adjustment Disorder, ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) & ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder), Adoption Issues, Anger Management, Bipolar Disorder (BD), Career Guidance, Chronic Pain, Codependency Disorder & Divorce Counselling
(03) 7003 2585 View (03) 7003 2585
Photo of Jayde Phillipson - The Clinical Psychology Co. -Jayde Phillipson, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
The Clinical Psychology Co. -Jayde Phillipson
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Farm, QLD 4005
Jayde is a clinical psychologist who works from an ISTDP therapeutic framework, while integrating specific interventions from other trauma-focussed approaches to meet her client's needs. She has experience working with adults, military, police, emergency service workers, and corporate personnel facing a range of difficulties, including trauma related disorders such as PTSD, workplace stress, mood disorders, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance dependence, and grief. Jayde has a specific interest in working with individuals who have endured acute traumatic events.
Jayde is a clinical psychologist who works from an ISTDP therapeutic framework, while integrating specific interventions from other trauma-focussed approaches to meet her client's needs. She has experience working with adults, military, police, emergency service workers, and corporate personnel facing a range of difficulties, including trauma related disorders such as PTSD, workplace stress, mood disorders, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance dependence, and grief. Jayde has a specific interest in working with individuals who have endured acute traumatic events.
(07) 2100 4948 View (07) 2100 4948
Photo of Dr Jacky Wan - Multilingual Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Dr Jacky Wan - Multilingual Psychologist
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Brisbane City, QLD 4000
I am a clinical psychologist with over a decade of experience in clinical supervisory roles held at both hospitals and private practice. In this time I have specialised in sleep issues, sleep disorders, psychotic spectrum disorders, bipolar disorder and other clinical presentations. I am passionate about providing caring and compassionate psychological support, tailored to my individual clients. This can range from resolving painful history to promoting growth in various stages of their life. Having practiced in both Hong Kong and Australia, I speak fluent English, Cantonese and Mandarin.
I am a clinical psychologist with over a decade of experience in clinical supervisory roles held at both hospitals and private practice. In this time I have specialised in sleep issues, sleep disorders, psychotic spectrum disorders, bipolar disorder and other clinical presentations. I am passionate about providing caring and compassionate psychological support, tailored to my individual clients. This can range from resolving painful history to promoting growth in various stages of their life. Having practiced in both Hong Kong and Australia, I speak fluent English, Cantonese and Mandarin.
(02) 9100 0686 View (02) 9100 0686
Photo of Una L Window, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Una L Window
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Annerley, QLD 4103
I want to work along side you to help manage your distress, depression or anxiety due to childhood trauma, disability, parenting issues, PND, BiPolar Affective Disorder, BPD, suicidal thinking or self-harm urges. I understand that often, in order to live a more fulfilling life, certain things may need to be either accepted or changed. It's a collaborative approach. I have a lived experience of a physical disability so know the strengths and challenges this can bring.
I want to work along side you to help manage your distress, depression or anxiety due to childhood trauma, disability, parenting issues, PND, BiPolar Affective Disorder, BPD, suicidal thinking or self-harm urges. I understand that often, in order to live a more fulfilling life, certain things may need to be either accepted or changed. It's a collaborative approach. I have a lived experience of a physical disability so know the strengths and challenges this can bring.
(07) 4243 4713 View (07) 4243 4713
Photo of Danka Fiedor Psychology Emdr 2.0 And Emdr Intensive Extended Sessions, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Danka Fiedor Psychology Emdr Emdr 2.0 And Emdr Intensive Extended Sessions
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Brisbane City, QLD 4000
Danka Fiedor Psychology is offering integrated and customised to client needs therapy such as EMDR & EMDR 2.0 & EMDR Intensives for individuals and couples & Attachment Informed EMDR & "parts work" & Gottman Method Workers Compensation/CTP (SIRA) & Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP). Each service is tailored using a strength-based approach to treatment to help you manage any issues including stress, depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD/cPTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Eating Disorders, OCD, Adult ADHD, phobias and performance anxiety, self-esteem and life’s challenges.
Danka Fiedor Psychology is offering integrated and customised to client needs therapy such as EMDR & EMDR 2.0 & EMDR Intensives for individuals and couples & Attachment Informed EMDR & "parts work" & Gottman Method Workers Compensation/CTP (SIRA) & Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP). Each service is tailored using a strength-based approach to treatment to help you manage any issues including stress, depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD/cPTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Eating Disorders, OCD, Adult ADHD, phobias and performance anxiety, self-esteem and life’s challenges.
(02) 9100 0959 View (02) 9100 0959
Photo of Renata Webster, PACFA, Counsellor
Renata Webster
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Indooroopilly, QLD 4068
My expertise encompasses bipolar and personality disorders, informed by both rigorous training and personal recovery insights.
You might be someone who feels trapped in a cycle of recurring patterns, struggling with unresolved traumas and complex mental health problems. Perhaps you're navigating relationship challenges, facing life transitions, or wrestling with self-doubt. You could be feeling overwhelmed by the weight of past decisions or anxious about the uncertainty of the future. Each day might seem like a battle, where you're constantly trying to find balance and peace amidst the chaos. You desire clarity, understanding, and a sense of purpose in your life.
My expertise encompasses bipolar and personality disorders, informed by both rigorous training and personal recovery insights.
You might be someone who feels trapped in a cycle of recurring patterns, struggling with unresolved traumas and complex mental health problems. Perhaps you're navigating relationship challenges, facing life transitions, or wrestling with self-doubt. You could be feeling overwhelmed by the weight of past decisions or anxious about the uncertainty of the future. Each day might seem like a battle, where you're constantly trying to find balance and peace amidst the chaos. You desire clarity, understanding, and a sense of purpose in your life.
(07) 3062 6831 View (07) 3062 6831
Photo of Linda van Leeuwen, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Linda van Leeuwen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Brisbane City, QLD 4000  (Online Only)
You don't always have to see a psychologist for your mental health. As an EMDR Therapist and Accredited Mental Health Social Worker my therapy can be funded by Medicare, NDIS, Victim Assist, Workcover QLD, National Redress Scheme etc. My areas of expertise are depression, anxiety, trauma ( (C)PTSD), acute and chronic stress, grief and loss, infertility, Neurodivergence (ASD, ADHD), emotion regulation problems and parenting issues. I work with all adults on these difficulties regardless of age, gender and cultural background. I also provide support for people who have a diagnosis of Psychosis, Bipolar Disorder, BPD, addictions etc.
You don't always have to see a psychologist for your mental health. As an EMDR Therapist and Accredited Mental Health Social Worker my therapy can be funded by Medicare, NDIS, Victim Assist, Workcover QLD, National Redress Scheme etc. My areas of expertise are depression, anxiety, trauma ( (C)PTSD), acute and chronic stress, grief and loss, infertility, Neurodivergence (ASD, ADHD), emotion regulation problems and parenting issues. I work with all adults on these difficulties regardless of age, gender and cultural background. I also provide support for people who have a diagnosis of Psychosis, Bipolar Disorder, BPD, addictions etc.
(07) 3186 8503 View (07) 3186 8503
Photo of Helen Elliott, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Helen Elliott
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Red Hill, QLD 4059
I assist people with a range of well-being concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, major mental illness diagnoses including bipolar affective disorder and major depression, adjustment /life transition issues, body image/food relationship concerns, grief and loss, peri/post-natal concerns, and stress management.
I tailor clinical psychology therapy to each person's unique needs, looking beyond any diagnosis or 'condition' to see how particular patterns in mind and body may be limiting someone's capacity to live fully.
I assist people with a range of well-being concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, major mental illness diagnoses including bipolar affective disorder and major depression, adjustment /life transition issues, body image/food relationship concerns, grief and loss, peri/post-natal concerns, and stress management.
I tailor clinical psychology therapy to each person's unique needs, looking beyond any diagnosis or 'condition' to see how particular patterns in mind and body may be limiting someone's capacity to live fully.
(07) 3130 0195 View (07) 3130 0195
Photo of Dr Pauline Baleta, PhD, MAPS, Psychologist
Dr Pauline Baleta
Psychologist, PhD, MAPS
Verified Verified
Paddington, QLD 4064
Pauline is a clinical psychologist in Paddington with over 15 years experience, initially in South Africa and more recently in Australia. She has a broad range of expertise in treating multiple psychiatric conditions including depression, PTSD, childhood trauma, anxiety, schizophrenia and bipolar. She also provides therapy for the day-to-day challenges of life, death, loss and separation as well as domestic violence.
Pauline is a clinical psychologist in Paddington with over 15 years experience, initially in South Africa and more recently in Australia. She has a broad range of expertise in treating multiple psychiatric conditions including depression, PTSD, childhood trauma, anxiety, schizophrenia and bipolar. She also provides therapy for the day-to-day challenges of life, death, loss and separation as well as domestic violence.
0456 615 599 View 0456 615 599
Photo of Robin Fraser, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed, Psychologist
Robin Fraser
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Endorsed
Verified Verified
Taringa, QLD 4068
My areas of expertise include Mood Disorders (Depression & Bipolar), Anxiety Disorders, PTSD & Complex PTSD, Impulse Control orders & Substance Use Disorders, and Personality Disorders.
Hi, I am an experienced Counselling Psychologist and have gained a broad base of knowledge over 13 years of therapy.The vast majority of my experience has been in the private practice field, treating both individuals & couples. Clients generally find me to be a warm and caring psychologist, with a strong desire to understand and help them to move forwards in their life.
My areas of expertise include Mood Disorders (Depression & Bipolar), Anxiety Disorders, PTSD & Complex PTSD, Impulse Control orders & Substance Use Disorders, and Personality Disorders.
Hi, I am an experienced Counselling Psychologist and have gained a broad base of knowledge over 13 years of therapy.The vast majority of my experience has been in the private practice field, treating both individuals & couples. Clients generally find me to be a warm and caring psychologist, with a strong desire to understand and help them to move forwards in their life.
(07) 2100 4097 View (07) 2100 4097
Photo of Dianne Wheare, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Dianne Wheare
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Bowen Hills, QLD 4006
Welcome to Brisbane Mind & Body Clinic. I’m a Registered Psychologist with 20 years’ experience working with adolescents, adults, and families who have presented with mood disorders, anxiety disorders including obsessive-compulsive disorder, relationship breakdown, work conflict, family crisis, trauma, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. I have a special interest in women's health and the interactions between mind and body in disorders such as post-natal depression and anxiety, together with the stress that accompanies major lifestyle transitions.
Welcome to Brisbane Mind & Body Clinic. I’m a Registered Psychologist with 20 years’ experience working with adolescents, adults, and families who have presented with mood disorders, anxiety disorders including obsessive-compulsive disorder, relationship breakdown, work conflict, family crisis, trauma, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. I have a special interest in women's health and the interactions between mind and body in disorders such as post-natal depression and anxiety, together with the stress that accompanies major lifestyle transitions.
(07) 3113 9982 View (07) 3113 9982
Photo of Jo Leidreiter, PsychD, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Jo Leidreiter
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Brisbane City, QLD 4000
I am committed to helping individuals manage Bipolar Disorder and Depression through an integrative, evidence-based therapies practice including CBT, DBT, and Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT).
Are you seeking help for Bipolar Disorder? You may be feeling overwhelmed by the highs and lows of your moods—sometimes filled with energy, creativity, and confidence, only to later crash into feelings of exhaustion, sadness, or despair. These mood swings might be affecting your relationships, work, and everyday life, leaving you feeling out of control and uncertain about how to manage.s Perhaps your looking for support in understanding your mood patterns, gaining stability, and finding practical strategies to manage your Bipolar Disorder?
I am committed to helping individuals manage Bipolar Disorder and Depression through an integrative, evidence-based therapies practice including CBT, DBT, and Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT).
Are you seeking help for Bipolar Disorder? You may be feeling overwhelmed by the highs and lows of your moods—sometimes filled with energy, creativity, and confidence, only to later crash into feelings of exhaustion, sadness, or despair. These mood swings might be affecting your relationships, work, and everyday life, leaving you feeling out of control and uncertain about how to manage.s Perhaps your looking for support in understanding your mood patterns, gaining stability, and finding practical strategies to manage your Bipolar Disorder?
(02) 8000 1364 View (02) 8000 1364
Photo of Cherie Sonnenburg, MA, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member, Psychologist
Cherie Sonnenburg
Psychologist, MA, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Verified Verified
Paddington, QLD 4064
Hello, my name is Cherie. I am a registered psychologist and work with adults and young people (16+) who are seeking to understand themselves better, overcome distress, and form new patterns of relating to themselves and others. I have experience working with people with complex trauma, sexual trauma, genito-pelvic pain/penetration disorder, relationship difficulties, perinatal mental health concerns, parenting difficulties, personality vulnerabilities/disorders, OCD, anger regulation difficulties, and bipolar disorder.
Hello, my name is Cherie. I am a registered psychologist and work with adults and young people (16+) who are seeking to understand themselves better, overcome distress, and form new patterns of relating to themselves and others. I have experience working with people with complex trauma, sexual trauma, genito-pelvic pain/penetration disorder, relationship difficulties, perinatal mental health concerns, parenting difficulties, personality vulnerabilities/disorders, OCD, anger regulation difficulties, and bipolar disorder.
(07) 3132 3435 View (07) 3132 3435
Photo of Emine Atasoy, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Emine Atasoy
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Fairfield, QLD 4103
I have training, experience, and a keen interest in child and adolescent mental health, and hold a Master's Degree in Youth Mental Health. I work with preteens, adolescents, and young adults with autism, ADHD, AuDHD, stress, anxiety, OCD, depression, disordered eating, bipolar affective disorder, early psychosis, trauma/PTSD, adjustment difficulties and interpersonal difficulties. I have current availability for appointments via telehealth Australia wide, and face-to-face consultations at our boutique practice located in Fairfield QLD. Please visit our website for further information: www.littlepsychlane.com.au
I have training, experience, and a keen interest in child and adolescent mental health, and hold a Master's Degree in Youth Mental Health. I work with preteens, adolescents, and young adults with autism, ADHD, AuDHD, stress, anxiety, OCD, depression, disordered eating, bipolar affective disorder, early psychosis, trauma/PTSD, adjustment difficulties and interpersonal difficulties. I have current availability for appointments via telehealth Australia wide, and face-to-face consultations at our boutique practice located in Fairfield QLD. Please visit our website for further information: www.littlepsychlane.com.au
(07) 2100 4332 View (07) 2100 4332

See more therapy options for West End

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.