Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Barrie, ON

Photo of Marie-Maude Pelletier Sottile, BAPsych,  MA , MACP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
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.
(647) 905-9212 View (647) 905-9212
Photo of undefined - Evolution Counselling Services by Yamilet V Falcon, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
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.
(249) 487-0479 View (249) 487-0479
Photo of Jessica Capra, BA, MC, Registered Psychotherapist
Jessica Capra
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MC
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4N  (Online Only)
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.
(249) 496-2140 View (249) 496-2140
Photo of undefined - DBS Professional Services, LLB, BAPsy, MACP, RP, RSW, Registered Psychotherapist
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).
(249) 490-4407 View (249) 490-4407
Photo of undefined - Ontario Psychotherapy: Trauma and Grief Therapist, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
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.
(289) 806-5137 View (289) 806-5137
Photo of Candace Putric: Adhd Anxiety Self-Esteem Trauma Adult, MA, RP (Q), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Candace Putric: Adhd Anxiety Self-Esteem Trauma Adult
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, RP (Q)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M
Hello! Are you neurodivergent (ADHD, AuDHD, and ASD) and have questions or challenges? Or do you deal with bipolar? Do you have a complex diagnosis with unique needs? Do you need support with confidence building and/or experience periods of moodiness? Are you looking for affordable and accessible therapy? I have experience and training working in these areas of expertise from a professional and personal point of view. I'd like to help you with your concerns and build your understanding with anything you bring to sessions. Please don't hesitate to contact me to begin your healing journey and restore your life balance.
Hello! Are you neurodivergent (ADHD, AuDHD, and ASD) and have questions or challenges? Or do you deal with bipolar? Do you have a complex diagnosis with unique needs? Do you need support with confidence building and/or experience periods of moodiness? Are you looking for affordable and accessible therapy? I have experience and training working in these areas of expertise from a professional and personal point of view. I'd like to help you with your concerns and build your understanding with anything you bring to sessions. Please don't hesitate to contact me to begin your healing journey and restore your life balance.
(289) 312-4786 View (289) 312-4786
Photo of Monica Logtenberg, RSW, MSW, Registered Social Worker
Monica Logtenberg
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M
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.
(289) 277-7096 View (289) 277-7096
Photo of Jessica Squilloni, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Jessica Squilloni
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4N
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.
(249) 495-5310 View (249) 495-5310
Photo of Nicole Barbour, MClSc, BA (Psy, ch), RSW, RSSW, Registered Social Worker
Nicole Barbour
Registered Social Worker, MClSc, BA (Psy, ch), RSW, RSSW
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4N
Life comes with challenges that can affect how we are functioning in the many roles we hold in our life. Our thoughts, behaviours, and emotional responses can really weigh us down. They hold us back, and leave us feeling stressed and overwhelmed. At these times therapy can be the tool to help you be the best you. It can put you in control of your thoughts, feelings, behaviours, and decisions. This leaves us with a sense of balance and peacefulness. I rely on Evidence Based Practice to support people in their journey to wellness. Therapy can include Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, and Narrative Therapy,etc.
Life comes with challenges that can affect how we are functioning in the many roles we hold in our life. Our thoughts, behaviours, and emotional responses can really weigh us down. They hold us back, and leave us feeling stressed and overwhelmed. At these times therapy can be the tool to help you be the best you. It can put you in control of your thoughts, feelings, behaviours, and decisions. This leaves us with a sense of balance and peacefulness. I rely on Evidence Based Practice to support people in their journey to wellness. Therapy can include Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, and Narrative Therapy,etc.
(249) 802-9168 View (249) 802-9168
Photo of Diana Korsounski, LCSW, MSW, BHSc, Registered Social Worker
Diana Korsounski
Registered Social Worker, LCSW, MSW, BHSc
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4M
“With a heart like that, you deserve the world.” (R.M. Drake) - Don’t we all deserve to be the very best version of ourselves, the Best You that there can be. Together, we can examine common negative thinking patterns; in addition, we can work on developing better coping strategies aimed at enhancing personal positive reasoning skills and attitude.
“With a heart like that, you deserve the world.” (R.M. Drake) - Don’t we all deserve to be the very best version of ourselves, the Best You that there can be. Together, we can examine common negative thinking patterns; in addition, we can work on developing better coping strategies aimed at enhancing personal positive reasoning skills and attitude.
(249) 490-5363 View (249) 490-5363
Photo of Katie Ryzebol, MDiv, RP (Q), Registered Psychotherapist
Katie Ryzebol
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP (Q)
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4N  (Online Only)
Welcome! I'm Katie :) I am compassionate, attentive, and hopeful for change as I journey with clients towards reaching their counselling goals. .I understand clients are approaching me with difficcult and personal issues. I am passionate about empowering clients to face their mental health challenges so they can realize the hope that exists for them to live a fuller life. I also recognize the need to support, equip, and educate members of the community ( family members, friends, colleagues etc.) of those living with difficult mental health trials.
Welcome! I'm Katie :) I am compassionate, attentive, and hopeful for change as I journey with clients towards reaching their counselling goals. .I understand clients are approaching me with difficcult and personal issues. I am passionate about empowering clients to face their mental health challenges so they can realize the hope that exists for them to live a fuller life. I also recognize the need to support, equip, and educate members of the community ( family members, friends, colleagues etc.) of those living with difficult mental health trials.
(289) 677-8524 View (289) 677-8524
Photo of Kaitlin Baldwin - Therapy And Clinical Supervision, MA, BA, Registered Psychotherapist
Kaitlin Baldwin - Therapy And Clinical Supervision
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, BA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4N
Let’s get this clear from the start: you aren’t ill, disordered, or flawed. You’re a human living in a world that creates constant stress and demands perfection. SO, while we will work on improving your quality of life, we’re going to focus on UNlearning just as much as learning. I like to explore, challenge, and empower you to lean into the difficult stuff using a gentle yet firm approach. My goal is to help you be able to accept those uncomfortable thoughts and feelings without being overwhelmed by them, and to connect you with a sense of confidence, clarity, and courage to live the way you want to.
Let’s get this clear from the start: you aren’t ill, disordered, or flawed. You’re a human living in a world that creates constant stress and demands perfection. SO, while we will work on improving your quality of life, we’re going to focus on UNlearning just as much as learning. I like to explore, challenge, and empower you to lean into the difficult stuff using a gentle yet firm approach. My goal is to help you be able to accept those uncomfortable thoughts and feelings without being overwhelmed by them, and to connect you with a sense of confidence, clarity, and courage to live the way you want to.
(249) 493-6435 View (249) 493-6435
Photo of Henry Obanor, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Henry Obanor
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4N
I provide a judgement free space and therapeutic counselling. I have worked extensively with youths, adults, couples and families in various capacities. With over 11 years of social work and counselling experience, I am knowledgeable and equipped to provide you with safe, confidential and effective counselling. I will work collaboratively with you as you gain the knowledge and skills you need to address your concerns and achieve your goals.
I provide a judgement free space and therapeutic counselling. I have worked extensively with youths, adults, couples and families in various capacities. With over 11 years of social work and counselling experience, I am knowledgeable and equipped to provide you with safe, confidential and effective counselling. I will work collaboratively with you as you gain the knowledge and skills you need to address your concerns and achieve your goals.
(705) 702-4579 View (705) 702-4579
Photo of undefined - Psychology Matters, MA, Psychologist
Psychology Matters
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4M
Psychology Matters consists of a group of therapists working together to provide psychological services to Barrie and the surrounding regions. Our diversely skilled group consists of members of the College of Psychologists and the College of Registered Psychotherapists. At our location we also have an assessment clinic where we conduct a various assessments for people of all ages. We also provide neuropsychological services.
Psychology Matters consists of a group of therapists working together to provide psychological services to Barrie and the surrounding regions. Our diversely skilled group consists of members of the College of Psychologists and the College of Registered Psychotherapists. At our location we also have an assessment clinic where we conduct a various assessments for people of all ages. We also provide neuropsychological services.
(855) 972-9296 View (855) 972-9296
Photo of Andra Escobar, BA, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Andra Escobar
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4N
BPD, Emotions, Narcissistic Abuse, Relationships/Couples, Anxiety/Stress- Are you seeking to embark on a journey of healing from narcissistic abuse and the scars it leaves behind? Do life's challenges often leave you feeling isolated and misunderstood? Are you yearning to address issues of infidelity and intimacy within your relationship? Rest assured, drawing from personal experience, I understand that the path to self-love, healing, and self-discovery is a continuous one. Because of this, I aspire to help individuals overcome their challenges regarding self-worth, internal strength, and resilience and heal and grow.
BPD, Emotions, Narcissistic Abuse, Relationships/Couples, Anxiety/Stress- Are you seeking to embark on a journey of healing from narcissistic abuse and the scars it leaves behind? Do life's challenges often leave you feeling isolated and misunderstood? Are you yearning to address issues of infidelity and intimacy within your relationship? Rest assured, drawing from personal experience, I understand that the path to self-love, healing, and self-discovery is a continuous one. Because of this, I aspire to help individuals overcome their challenges regarding self-worth, internal strength, and resilience and heal and grow.
(249) 201-9620 View (249) 201-9620
Photo of Jessica Maronski, RP, EMDR, Registered Psychotherapist
Jessica Maronski
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, EMDR
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4N
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.
(289) 763-9898 View (289) 763-9898
Photo of Jessica Pino, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Jessica Pino
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4N
I know that reaching out for therapy can be incredibly challenging and overwhelming. I am here to guide you through the process every step of the way and meet you wherever you are on your journey. I assure you that my practice provides a safe, comfortable, validating and non-judgmental space. I take a strengths-based approach, empowering you and building the confidence necessary to handle life challenges, achieve goals, enhance your quality of life and become the best version of yourself. I believe everyone has the potential to heal and the resiliency to bounce back from trauma.
I know that reaching out for therapy can be incredibly challenging and overwhelming. I am here to guide you through the process every step of the way and meet you wherever you are on your journey. I assure you that my practice provides a safe, comfortable, validating and non-judgmental space. I take a strengths-based approach, empowering you and building the confidence necessary to handle life challenges, achieve goals, enhance your quality of life and become the best version of yourself. I believe everyone has the potential to heal and the resiliency to bounce back from trauma.
(705) 999-7638 View (705) 999-7638
Photo of Robyn Cottrell, BA, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Robyn Cottrell
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MACP
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4N
ADHD, BPD, Emotions, Relationships/Couples, Anxiety/Stress- You're having a hard time concentrating and getting things done. You struggle to find motivation to complete your daily tasks and then feel down about yourself. You struggle with shifting moods and don't know how to cope. When anxiety and overwhelm take over, it can be hard to function because your concentration and motivation start to slip. And, if you struggle with low mood and negative self-talk, it can be hard to get out of that "funk" and shift to a more productive mindset.
ADHD, BPD, Emotions, Relationships/Couples, Anxiety/Stress- You're having a hard time concentrating and getting things done. You struggle to find motivation to complete your daily tasks and then feel down about yourself. You struggle with shifting moods and don't know how to cope. When anxiety and overwhelm take over, it can be hard to function because your concentration and motivation start to slip. And, if you struggle with low mood and negative self-talk, it can be hard to get out of that "funk" and shift to a more productive mindset.
(249) 523-5275 View (249) 523-5275
Photo of Effie Mitskopoulos - Holistic Psychotherapy, HBSc, MSW, RSW, CHyp, CYT, Registered Social Worker
Effie Mitskopoulos - Holistic Psychotherapy
Registered Social Worker, HBSc, MSW, RSW, CHyp, CYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4N
It's time to feel and see how powerful you are. I help women overcome self-defeating and worrisome thoughts and live a calm and fulfilling life. Stress and trauma affects how you feel, think, behave, and how your body works. This can manifest as anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and/or addiction. I treat you as a whole person (body, mind, and spirit), personalizing various modalities like Hypnosis, Mindfulness, CBT, DBT, and Nervous System Re-training to work for you so distress is released and healthy patterns are established. I teach you skills so that you live a happy, peaceful, and meaningful life.
It's time to feel and see how powerful you are. I help women overcome self-defeating and worrisome thoughts and live a calm and fulfilling life. Stress and trauma affects how you feel, think, behave, and how your body works. This can manifest as anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and/or addiction. I treat you as a whole person (body, mind, and spirit), personalizing various modalities like Hypnosis, Mindfulness, CBT, DBT, and Nervous System Re-training to work for you so distress is released and healthy patterns are established. I teach you skills so that you live a happy, peaceful, and meaningful life.
(249) 294-1342 View (249) 294-1342
Photo of Karen Szabo, BA, MACP, RP(Q), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Karen Szabo
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MACP, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4N
NO WAIT-LIST & In-Person appts! Anxiety/Stress/Burnout, Prenatal/Postpartum, Couples/Relationships & Trauma Specialist- You feel overwhelmed by every little thing and are experiencing a lot of stress/anxiety as a result. You feel down about yourself for letting things "slip" but just can't find the motivation to make changes. Perhaps life just feels like "too much" right now and it's starting to take a toll on your self-esteem and ability to cope with your stress. When you have a lot on your plate and just cant seem to catch a break, it can be hard to find the good in life and think clearly. This is where therapy can help!
NO WAIT-LIST & In-Person appts! Anxiety/Stress/Burnout, Prenatal/Postpartum, Couples/Relationships & Trauma Specialist- You feel overwhelmed by every little thing and are experiencing a lot of stress/anxiety as a result. You feel down about yourself for letting things "slip" but just can't find the motivation to make changes. Perhaps life just feels like "too much" right now and it's starting to take a toll on your self-esteem and ability to cope with your stress. When you have a lot on your plate and just cant seem to catch a break, it can be hard to find the good in life and think clearly. This is where therapy can help!
(249) 488-2424 View (249) 488-2424

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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.