Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Barrie, ON
![Photo of Marie-Maude Pelletier Sottile, BAPsych, MA , MACP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5c7627cd-8ca8-448e-9440-b8ea8a7eafcc/3/320x400.jpeg)
Marie-Maude Pelletier Sottile
Registered Psychotherapist, BAPsych, MA , MACP, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M
My clinical experience allows me to treat individuals who experience low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship struggles, emotional disturbances, stress, mood disorders, behavioural issues, ADHD, bipolar, borderline disorder, & adjusting to a life change.
Therapy is an opportunity to increase our resilience and to learn how to cope with undesirable life events. Anger, fear, sadness or guilt arise when life experiences are overlooked, neglected, and ununderstood. Anxiety & Depression is a response to the failure to care for the feelings & emotions of the self. Likewise, feelings of stress and inner discomfort need understanding to be changed. The psychotherapy techniques I use to ease client issues and discomfort include CBT, Talking Therapy, DBT skills, Client-Centred, Compassion, Emotional and Solution Focus Therapy, Psychoeducation, frameworks of attachment, and family systems.
My clinical experience allows me to treat individuals who experience low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship struggles, emotional disturbances, stress, mood disorders, behavioural issues, ADHD, bipolar, borderline disorder, & adjusting to a life change.
Therapy is an opportunity to increase our resilience and to learn how to cope with undesirable life events. Anger, fear, sadness or guilt arise when life experiences are overlooked, neglected, and ununderstood. Anxiety & Depression is a response to the failure to care for the feelings & emotions of the self. Likewise, feelings of stress and inner discomfort need understanding to be changed. The psychotherapy techniques I use to ease client issues and discomfort include CBT, Talking Therapy, DBT skills, Client-Centred, Compassion, Emotional and Solution Focus Therapy, Psychoeducation, frameworks of attachment, and family systems.
![Photo of Jessica Capra, BA, MC, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a1e1294c-6f84-433f-b93a-bc6c0a22a24a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Direct billing is available for most insurance providers. Specializing in mood, personality and neurodevelopmental disorders including depression, anxiety, specific phobia's OCD, ADHD, leaning disabilities, autism, grief, anger, parental mental illness, BPD, bipolar disorder. Modes of therapy practiced include: CBT, DBT and psychodynamic psychotherapy. Lived experience with parental mental illness.
Direct billing is available for most insurance providers. Specializing in mood, personality and neurodevelopmental disorders including depression, anxiety, specific phobia's OCD, ADHD, leaning disabilities, autism, grief, anger, parental mental illness, BPD, bipolar disorder. Modes of therapy practiced include: CBT, DBT and psychodynamic psychotherapy. Lived experience with parental mental illness.
![Photo of Yamilet (Jammy) V Falcon - Evolution Counselling Services by Yamilet V Falcon, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/87052309-9538-486c-a29e-009ec073a352/2/320x400.jpeg)
Evolution Counselling Services by Yamilet V Falcon
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4N
I am the Founder of Evolution Counselling Services. I have extensive work experience in the mental health field as a Clinical Lead, Program Manager and Mental Health Counsellor for almost 10 years. My knowledge and expertise extends to and with individuals suffering from diverse mental health diagnosis (Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, Eating Disorders, and experiences of Loss, Grief and Trauma) among others. At Evolution Counselling, I seek to empower individuals to achieve internal and external wellness.
I am the Founder of Evolution Counselling Services. I have extensive work experience in the mental health field as a Clinical Lead, Program Manager and Mental Health Counsellor for almost 10 years. My knowledge and expertise extends to and with individuals suffering from diverse mental health diagnosis (Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, Eating Disorders, and experiences of Loss, Grief and Trauma) among others. At Evolution Counselling, I seek to empower individuals to achieve internal and external wellness.
![Photo of Bettina J. Kealy, BA, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46dc80b0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Bettina specializes in treating clients with trauma, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder/other anxiety disorders as well as Depression and Bipolar Disorder.
Bettina Kealy, B.A., M.A., R.P. is a Registered Psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience in the field, providing psychotherapy services to clients and also training/supervising other psychotherapists and mental health providers. Bettina obtained her B.A. in Psychology from Laurentian University in 2003 and then completed her Masters in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University in 2012. She is registered, and in good standing with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario. Bettina offers individual psychotherapy services as well as couples/marriage counselling and family psychotherapy.
Bettina specializes in treating clients with trauma, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder/other anxiety disorders as well as Depression and Bipolar Disorder.
Bettina Kealy, B.A., M.A., R.P. is a Registered Psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience in the field, providing psychotherapy services to clients and also training/supervising other psychotherapists and mental health providers. Bettina obtained her B.A. in Psychology from Laurentian University in 2003 and then completed her Masters in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University in 2012. She is registered, and in good standing with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario. Bettina offers individual psychotherapy services as well as couples/marriage counselling and family psychotherapy.
![Photo of Rachelle Watson - Ontario Psychotherapy: Trauma and Grief Therapist, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b2a1bcb-538c-4af7-a4f7-e455a90c1097/1/320x400.png)
Ontario Psychotherapy: Trauma and Grief Therapist
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4M (Online Only)
My areas of practice include emotion dysregulation (BPD and bipolar disorder), depression and anxiety, and grief and loss.
Are you perpetually in fight or flight or shut down mode? Do your emotions feel out of control? Easily triggered? I'm Rachelle and I’m the face behind OPS, an online therapy practice. I specialize in nervous system stabilization. I work with those who have experienced trauma to process its emotional and the physical effects. My practice incorporates a focus on the mind-body connection, which most clients say was the missing piece in previous therapy. The body goes through just as much as the mind; effective therapy involves paying close attention to the body and developing nervous system resiliency.
My areas of practice include emotion dysregulation (BPD and bipolar disorder), depression and anxiety, and grief and loss.
Are you perpetually in fight or flight or shut down mode? Do your emotions feel out of control? Easily triggered? I'm Rachelle and I’m the face behind OPS, an online therapy practice. I specialize in nervous system stabilization. I work with those who have experienced trauma to process its emotional and the physical effects. My practice incorporates a focus on the mind-body connection, which most clients say was the missing piece in previous therapy. The body goes through just as much as the mind; effective therapy involves paying close attention to the body and developing nervous system resiliency.
![Photo of Danielle Bernard-St-Denis - DBS Professional Services, LLB, BAPsy, MACP, RP, RSW, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e1d5d80-5dd6-4da2-b09e-d2d185acce2d/1/320x400.jpeg)
DBS Professional Services
Registered Psychotherapist, LLB, BAPsy, MACP, RP, RSW
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4M (Online Only)
She is experienced with multiple mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, stress, relationship, separation/divorce, parenting, bipolar disorder, ADD/ADHD, anger, life transitions, intimacy, as well as adapting and coping.
Danielle successfully completed a Bachelor's Degree in Law & Justice, LLB, and Psychology in 2011, a Master's Degree in Counselling Psychology in 2014, and defending for the Doctor of Counselling and Psychotherapy in 2025. She strongly supports personal and professional development, higher learning, professional skills building, and maintaining professional competency. Danielle offers quality counselling & psychotherapy services in private practice with a compassionate, attentive, professional and person-centred approach. She practices cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).
She is experienced with multiple mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, stress, relationship, separation/divorce, parenting, bipolar disorder, ADD/ADHD, anger, life transitions, intimacy, as well as adapting and coping.
Danielle successfully completed a Bachelor's Degree in Law & Justice, LLB, and Psychology in 2011, a Master's Degree in Counselling Psychology in 2014, and defending for the Doctor of Counselling and Psychotherapy in 2025. She strongly supports personal and professional development, higher learning, professional skills building, and maintaining professional competency. Danielle offers quality counselling & psychotherapy services in private practice with a compassionate, attentive, professional and person-centred approach. She practices cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).
![Photo of Monica Logtenberg, RSW, MSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7d7e6a63-06b3-4dce-870e-b12f7852e2ef/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you struggling to find balance in your daily life challenges? Do you feel emotional dysregulation, irregular feelings towards important persons in your life, feelings of insignificance in people’s lives, sadness, impulse control. I understand this isolation of feeling dysregulated and trapped without the ability to express intense thoughts and feelings.
Are you struggling to find balance in your daily life challenges? Do you feel emotional dysregulation, irregular feelings towards important persons in your life, feelings of insignificance in people’s lives, sadness, impulse control. I understand this isolation of feeling dysregulated and trapped without the ability to express intense thoughts and feelings.
![Photo of Jessica Squilloni, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4922855a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Registered Psychotherapist through the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario with a Masters degree in Counselling Psychology. I provide evidence-based therapy and skills training in dialectical behaviour therapy. I specialize in issues related to emotion regulation and impulsivity which include borderline personality disorder and other personality disorders, PTSD, suicide as well as mood, anxiety and eating disorders. I have international training with DBT experts from locations including Italy and New York. I have formal training in Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD and CBT for anxiety.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist through the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario with a Masters degree in Counselling Psychology. I provide evidence-based therapy and skills training in dialectical behaviour therapy. I specialize in issues related to emotion regulation and impulsivity which include borderline personality disorder and other personality disorders, PTSD, suicide as well as mood, anxiety and eating disorders. I have international training with DBT experts from locations including Italy and New York. I have formal training in Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD and CBT for anxiety.
![Photo of Lindsay Tsang, MACP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2964c6af-e095-45fc-b507-8d32af45bf51/2/320x400.jpeg)
Un-controlled emotions can sabotage areas of our lives. Are you consistently angry? Or have anxiety and you're losing an appetite for life? Angry outburst can leave you embarrassed or potentially harm important relationships. You may feel a sense that life is out of control when you lash out, especially if it's towards people who didn't deserve it. High anxiety on the other hand can lead to insomnia, depression and the inability to cope with every day life. You may be asking, "Can I ever feel normal again?"
Un-controlled emotions can sabotage areas of our lives. Are you consistently angry? Or have anxiety and you're losing an appetite for life? Angry outburst can leave you embarrassed or potentially harm important relationships. You may feel a sense that life is out of control when you lash out, especially if it's towards people who didn't deserve it. High anxiety on the other hand can lead to insomnia, depression and the inability to cope with every day life. You may be asking, "Can I ever feel normal again?"
![Photo of Michelle Harris - Michelle Harris & Associates, MSW, RSW, TITC-CT, CTP-C, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2e418bf-499d-45e9-affa-a7050a27fd1e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Harris & Associates
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, TITC-CT, CTP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4N
Providing in-person sessions in Barrie and virtually to all Ontario residents. We are a team made up of Registered Social Workers (MSW) who specialize in providing psychotherapy to children (7+), teens (13+), young adults and individuals along with offering parent coaching and consultation. Using evidenced based practices we help you find answers for change for you, for your child or for your family. Working together we can build on existing strengths and skills to make positive life changes. Each approach will be tailored to you, your child or your family's needs and designed with your goal in mind.
Providing in-person sessions in Barrie and virtually to all Ontario residents. We are a team made up of Registered Social Workers (MSW) who specialize in providing psychotherapy to children (7+), teens (13+), young adults and individuals along with offering parent coaching and consultation. Using evidenced based practices we help you find answers for change for you, for your child or for your family. Working together we can build on existing strengths and skills to make positive life changes. Each approach will be tailored to you, your child or your family's needs and designed with your goal in mind.
![Photo of Taylor Ellis, RP(Q), MACP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/12e5dae8-828a-491f-b587-d19f26f3cef4/2/320x400.png)
Taylor Ellis
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q), MACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4N
Relationships, Stress/Anxiety/Depression, Self-Esteem, Trauma- You are feeling anxious, stressed, and overwhelmed to the point that it is starting to impact your daily life. Perhaps your relationships or work/school are starting to suffer and you are now feeling stuck, not knowing what else to do. Maybe you've tried things before with no resolve. Your emotions/mood are up & down, struggling between anxiety and depression, and might be starting to wonder if things will ever get better. Don't worry- we can help you get unstuck and back on track through counselling. I believe that you have the strength to get through this
Relationships, Stress/Anxiety/Depression, Self-Esteem, Trauma- You are feeling anxious, stressed, and overwhelmed to the point that it is starting to impact your daily life. Perhaps your relationships or work/school are starting to suffer and you are now feeling stuck, not knowing what else to do. Maybe you've tried things before with no resolve. Your emotions/mood are up & down, struggling between anxiety and depression, and might be starting to wonder if things will ever get better. Don't worry- we can help you get unstuck and back on track through counselling. I believe that you have the strength to get through this
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Trauma, addiction, and mental health struggles are all too familiar for countless people in Canada. These challenges often feel like overwhelming mountains, blocking the light and making it hard to see the path ahead. Yet, there is no reason for anyone to walk this path alone. My approach to holistic care is neither formulaic nor prescriptive. Rather, it is compassionate and patient. I blend evidence-based therapies, such as CBT, ACT, DBT with somatic techniques and energy medicine to nurture and support one meaningful step at a time.
Trauma, addiction, and mental health struggles are all too familiar for countless people in Canada. These challenges often feel like overwhelming mountains, blocking the light and making it hard to see the path ahead. Yet, there is no reason for anyone to walk this path alone. My approach to holistic care is neither formulaic nor prescriptive. Rather, it is compassionate and patient. I blend evidence-based therapies, such as CBT, ACT, DBT with somatic techniques and energy medicine to nurture and support one meaningful step at a time.
![Photo of Sandrine Fortin, CPsych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0f234fa7-4028-40b2-8eeb-c4e13f0512ae/1/320x400.jpeg)
Bonjour, je me nomme Sandrine, je suis psychologue et membre de l'Ordre des psychologues de l'Ontario. Je travaille en français et en ligne. J'offre des services d'évaluation psychologique et de psychothérapie auprès d'une population adulte. J’interviens auprès des personnes présentant des problématiques dont la dépression, l'anxiété, les traumatismes, les difficultés relationnelles, les enjeux liés à la personnalité, les enjeux sexuels et une faible estime de soi. Je travaille aussi régulièrement avec la clientèle des Forces armées canadiennes.
Bonjour, je me nomme Sandrine, je suis psychologue et membre de l'Ordre des psychologues de l'Ontario. Je travaille en français et en ligne. J'offre des services d'évaluation psychologique et de psychothérapie auprès d'une population adulte. J’interviens auprès des personnes présentant des problématiques dont la dépression, l'anxiété, les traumatismes, les difficultés relationnelles, les enjeux liés à la personnalité, les enjeux sexuels et une faible estime de soi. Je travaille aussi régulièrement avec la clientèle des Forces armées canadiennes.
![Photo of Cristina Del Principe - Restorative Trauma Practice, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae7b1b0a-adda-42bf-899f-82e55a8f8030/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a social worker/psychotherapist, I have 14 years of extensive clinical practice supporting individuals who have endured past and present traumatic and hurtful life experiences. I guide individuals out of painful emotions, thoughts, somatic reactions, and behavioural patterns by creatively combining trauma-informed therapies and techniques that foster personal growth and transformation.
As a social worker/psychotherapist, I have 14 years of extensive clinical practice supporting individuals who have endured past and present traumatic and hurtful life experiences. I guide individuals out of painful emotions, thoughts, somatic reactions, and behavioural patterns by creatively combining trauma-informed therapies and techniques that foster personal growth and transformation.
![Photo of Laryssa Levesque- Counselling + Clinical Supervision, RP, MACP, BSc, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/958010f4-4bb3-4470-9d57-208f86109eb8/2/320x400.png)
Laryssa Levesque- Counselling + Clinical Supervision
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP, BSc
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4N (Online Only)
Anxiety/Stress/People-Pleasing/Perfectionism- You feel exhausted most of the time and can't seem to get any work done. You have trouble relaxing because your mind is constantly racing with stress and worries. It is hard to "shut off" and your body is feeling the effects of prolonged stress. Your never ending to-do list just keeps getting bigger and you feel overwhelmed by life in general. If these statements resonate with you, you might be struggling with chronic stress and anxiety. Possibly even dealing with poor work-life balance and are on the brink of burnout. You've come to the right place to get back on track!
Anxiety/Stress/People-Pleasing/Perfectionism- You feel exhausted most of the time and can't seem to get any work done. You have trouble relaxing because your mind is constantly racing with stress and worries. It is hard to "shut off" and your body is feeling the effects of prolonged stress. Your never ending to-do list just keeps getting bigger and you feel overwhelmed by life in general. If these statements resonate with you, you might be struggling with chronic stress and anxiety. Possibly even dealing with poor work-life balance and are on the brink of burnout. You've come to the right place to get back on track!
![Photo of Emily Dunn - Bay View Therapy Centre, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48fec7fe-8e40-4c7d-96c0-41390e525e71/3/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome and thanks for stopping by! We are a team of Registered Social Workers and Psychotherapists with decades of experience working with individuals impacted by trauma, abuse, PTSD, anxiety, depression, addictions, relationship and self-esteem issues. We use a strengths-based, trauma-informed approach to guide our therapeutic interventions and empower people to reach their goals. We believe every individual has the power and strength to work through their adversities, and our role your therapist is to work collaboratively with you to help you acknowledge your strengths, build upon them & heal to live a happy and success.
Welcome and thanks for stopping by! We are a team of Registered Social Workers and Psychotherapists with decades of experience working with individuals impacted by trauma, abuse, PTSD, anxiety, depression, addictions, relationship and self-esteem issues. We use a strengths-based, trauma-informed approach to guide our therapeutic interventions and empower people to reach their goals. We believe every individual has the power and strength to work through their adversities, and our role your therapist is to work collaboratively with you to help you acknowledge your strengths, build upon them & heal to live a happy and success.
![Photo of Growth Point Psychotherapy, RSW, MSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9c7b2219-513f-400d-a59f-c0cbbbb7f4d4/3/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new Clients . I do face to face sessions, virtual/telephone sessions across Ontario . Life can be hard for everyone, regardless of our mental health status. I see my role as helping you get your life back in order so that you may move forward towards your goal , and your happiness. Evening and weekend appointments available
Accepting new Clients . I do face to face sessions, virtual/telephone sessions across Ontario . Life can be hard for everyone, regardless of our mental health status. I see my role as helping you get your life back in order so that you may move forward towards your goal , and your happiness. Evening and weekend appointments available
![Photo of Jayne Holden, RSW, MSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a396fc58-0cf5-4751-a6b2-f30d643b3876/1/320x400.jpeg)
You don’t have to navigate life’s challenges alone and it is my role to help you find purpose and hope. I’m passionate about helping people and take the time to build a genuine connection and ensure you feel comfortable to share whatever is on your mind. I believe in everyone’s worth and potential and will make it my priority to help you feel seen, heard, and safe to share your story. I've been providing counselling services to a diverse population for over 15 years and specialize in mood disorders, depression, anxiety, PTSD, stress, burnout, self-harm, suicide risk, disordered eating, and substance abuse.
You don’t have to navigate life’s challenges alone and it is my role to help you find purpose and hope. I’m passionate about helping people and take the time to build a genuine connection and ensure you feel comfortable to share whatever is on your mind. I believe in everyone’s worth and potential and will make it my priority to help you feel seen, heard, and safe to share your story. I've been providing counselling services to a diverse population for over 15 years and specialize in mood disorders, depression, anxiety, PTSD, stress, burnout, self-harm, suicide risk, disordered eating, and substance abuse.
![Photo of Mariana Benitez - MB Counselling and Consulting - Mariana Benitez, MEd, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/254c529b-46d8-4e4e-b5c8-ddcf88748176/1/320x400.jpeg)
MB Counselling and Consulting - Mariana Benitez
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M
Healing and growing can be a hard journey to travel alone, and asking for help when we feel stuck can be even harder. I am here to help! Whether you are experiencing difficulties in your intimate relationships, have parenting concerns, experiencing stress, anxiety or depression; a lot can be done to help those concerns be addressed and improved. Our ability to better cope and build strength and resilience is often connected to our motivation and willingness to work on making changes. It is when you feel you want to do something different but you don't know what to do, that the help from a professional can make a big difference!
Healing and growing can be a hard journey to travel alone, and asking for help when we feel stuck can be even harder. I am here to help! Whether you are experiencing difficulties in your intimate relationships, have parenting concerns, experiencing stress, anxiety or depression; a lot can be done to help those concerns be addressed and improved. Our ability to better cope and build strength and resilience is often connected to our motivation and willingness to work on making changes. It is when you feel you want to do something different but you don't know what to do, that the help from a professional can make a big difference!
![Photo of Jessica Capra, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2304bd6d-428a-4c18-b8e1-da63857ac84c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Have you ever felt alone, disconnected or abandoned? I’ve had those moments too. Growing up amidst parental mental illness came with a lot of challenges but it also gave me compassion and understanding. We needed the support of a caring community of family and friends to help us walk through many difficult times. My lived experiences inspired me to study psychology and human behavior for much of my adult life. This pursuit has provided me with the opportunity to help others so they can feel supported on their journey.
Have you ever felt alone, disconnected or abandoned? I’ve had those moments too. Growing up amidst parental mental illness came with a lot of challenges but it also gave me compassion and understanding. We needed the support of a caring community of family and friends to help us walk through many difficult times. My lived experiences inspired me to study psychology and human behavior for much of my adult life. This pursuit has provided me with the opportunity to help others so they can feel supported on their journey.
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Nearby Bipolar Disorder Counsellors Searches for Barrie
See More Bipolar Disorder CounsellorsBipolar 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.