Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Brampton, ON

Photo of Julien Fortier, MSW, BMT, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Julien Fortier
Registered Social Worker, MSW, BMT, RSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Brampton, ON L6T  (Online Only)
Specializing in complex mental health issues like substance use, bipolar disorder, and more, I offer a holistic approach with mindfulness, motivational interviewing and CBT.
I specialize in supporting clients with mental health challenges—depression, anxiety, PTSD, intellectual disabilities, substance use, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. Ideal clients seek holistic care, combining mindfulness, CBT, music therapy, and empathy. They desire equitable, barrier-free support for stability and a healthier mindset. They value tailored strategies and a collaborative ally skilled in advocacy and communication. Ultimately, they seek understanding and holistic healing in a safe, empathetic space.
Specializing in complex mental health issues like substance use, bipolar disorder, and more, I offer a holistic approach with mindfulness, motivational interviewing and CBT.
I specialize in supporting clients with mental health challenges—depression, anxiety, PTSD, intellectual disabilities, substance use, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. Ideal clients seek holistic care, combining mindfulness, CBT, music therapy, and empathy. They desire equitable, barrier-free support for stability and a healthier mindset. They value tailored strategies and a collaborative ally skilled in advocacy and communication. Ultimately, they seek understanding and holistic healing in a safe, empathetic space.
(647) 492-5144 View (647) 492-5144
Photo of Somia Aslam Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, PMH-C, Registered Psychotherapist
Somia Aslam Registered Psychotherapist
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, PMH-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brampton, ON L6T  (Online Only)
Additionally,I have specialized training to treat individuals struggling with pregnancy and postpartum anxiety, depression, OCD and bipolar disorder.
Are you experiencing anxious thoughts, depressed mood, or finding it hard to adjust to major life transitions? Do unwanted and intrusive thoughts and feelings hinder your ability to fully engage in a meaningful life? Are you finding it challenging to cope with uncertainty in your life? Are you currently facing emotional challenges related to pregnancy or postpartum experience? We'll take time to discover your strengths and work towards your journey.
Additionally,I have specialized training to treat individuals struggling with pregnancy and postpartum anxiety, depression, OCD and bipolar disorder.
Are you experiencing anxious thoughts, depressed mood, or finding it hard to adjust to major life transitions? Do unwanted and intrusive thoughts and feelings hinder your ability to fully engage in a meaningful life? Are you finding it challenging to cope with uncertainty in your life? Are you currently facing emotional challenges related to pregnancy or postpartum experience? We'll take time to discover your strengths and work towards your journey.
(289) 236-1280 View (289) 236-1280
Photo of Marci Gray -Social Worker Psychotherapist, BA, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Marci Gray -Social Worker Psychotherapist
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Brampton, ON L6V
What are you going through? Let’s work together to sort it out, make steps towards recovery, & come to resolution and healing. In a safe and non-judgemental space we focus on your challenges, symptoms and needs. Whether you are seeking individual, couple, or family therapy we can engage in the most appropriate therapeutic solutions for you. I have 20 years experience in the field and have specialized training in treatment for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, OCD, PTSD, & trauma in addition to couples therapy. I’m trained in EMDR, CBT, DBT, EFT etc. I am also the therapist for therapists.
What are you going through? Let’s work together to sort it out, make steps towards recovery, & come to resolution and healing. In a safe and non-judgemental space we focus on your challenges, symptoms and needs. Whether you are seeking individual, couple, or family therapy we can engage in the most appropriate therapeutic solutions for you. I have 20 years experience in the field and have specialized training in treatment for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, OCD, PTSD, & trauma in addition to couples therapy. I’m trained in EMDR, CBT, DBT, EFT etc. I am also the therapist for therapists.
(647) 360-2175 View (647) 360-2175
Photo of Celine Williams-Tracey - Awakening Counselling and Consulting Services Inc., HBSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Awakening Counselling and Consulting Services Inc.
Registered Social Worker, HBSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Brampton, ON L6V  (Online Only)
I specialize in trauma informed counselling, intimate partner violence, mental health(depression, anxiety and bipolar).
Are you feeling alone? Are you feeling emotionally stuck? Are you feeling as if you are coasting and not reaching your goals? Are you feeling uncertain about your life journey? Are you wanting to heal from trauma and struggles that have continued to impact your daily life? Do you feel emotionally and mentally debilitated? What are your ultimate internal life goal(s)? Awakening Counselling offers a safe and relaxing space to process and delve deep into the inner workings of the self and to ultimately achieve peace of mind. Give us a call or message us for more information.
I specialize in trauma informed counselling, intimate partner violence, mental health(depression, anxiety and bipolar).
Are you feeling alone? Are you feeling emotionally stuck? Are you feeling as if you are coasting and not reaching your goals? Are you feeling uncertain about your life journey? Are you wanting to heal from trauma and struggles that have continued to impact your daily life? Do you feel emotionally and mentally debilitated? What are your ultimate internal life goal(s)? Awakening Counselling offers a safe and relaxing space to process and delve deep into the inner workings of the self and to ultimately achieve peace of mind. Give us a call or message us for more information.
(844) 329-7484 View (844) 329-7484
Photo of Marci Gray - Gray Matter Health -Brampton Psychotherapists, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Gray Matter Health -Brampton Psychotherapists
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brampton, ON L6Z
Sometimes we just can't do it on our own. Whether you have individual, couple, or family challenges, as a professional or first responder, life is so much more fulfilling when we can reach out for support to get through the rough patch. Our team has several years of experience working through trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, grief, conflict, OCD, BPD, bipolar disorder, anger, ADHD, dementia, burnout, or perinatal challenges in addition to so much more. If you're ready for a life change, we can help! Many of our clients have reached out to us for support and as a result have restored happiness & improved their quality of life.
Sometimes we just can't do it on our own. Whether you have individual, couple, or family challenges, as a professional or first responder, life is so much more fulfilling when we can reach out for support to get through the rough patch. Our team has several years of experience working through trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, grief, conflict, OCD, BPD, bipolar disorder, anger, ADHD, dementia, burnout, or perinatal challenges in addition to so much more. If you're ready for a life change, we can help! Many of our clients have reached out to us for support and as a result have restored happiness & improved their quality of life.
(289) 302-8255 View (289) 302-8255
Photo of Darlene Artt, MDiv, RP, MFT, CAMFT, OAMHP, Registered Psychotherapist
Darlene Artt
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP, MFT, CAMFT, OAMHP
Verified Verified
Brampton, ON L6V
I am specifically trained to support Military and First Responders, trauma and post traumatic stress, and individuals and families suffering with serious mental health concerns such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and neurological issues.
I offer compassion and empathy to children, youth, individuals, couples, and families, in a non-judgmental and culturally sensitive manner, using a strengths-based, person-centred approach.
I am specifically trained to support Military and First Responders, trauma and post traumatic stress, and individuals and families suffering with serious mental health concerns such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and neurological issues.
I offer compassion and empathy to children, youth, individuals, couples, and families, in a non-judgmental and culturally sensitive manner, using a strengths-based, person-centred approach.
(833) 313-0728 View (833) 313-0728
Photo of Cindy Kwok, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Cindy Kwok
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brampton, ON L6P
If you are taking or considering a psychiatric medication, you will find me knowledgeable about how therapy and medication can support healing from PTSD, bipolar disorder, grief, and other challenges.
Do you struggle with self-esteem or managing your emotions? Are you having difficulty coping or having difficulty in your family or personal relationships? Do you need help recovering from substance abuse? Have you experienced trauma in the past? In therapy, we will draw from practical tools that you can start applying in everyday life to build and sustain recovery. We will work towards tangible results — improved self confidence, better romantic and peer relationships, and sustained sobriety. Therapy is a safe space to start permanent healing. I am looking forward to hearing your story and to providing effective support.
If you are taking or considering a psychiatric medication, you will find me knowledgeable about how therapy and medication can support healing from PTSD, bipolar disorder, grief, and other challenges.
Do you struggle with self-esteem or managing your emotions? Are you having difficulty coping or having difficulty in your family or personal relationships? Do you need help recovering from substance abuse? Have you experienced trauma in the past? In therapy, we will draw from practical tools that you can start applying in everyday life to build and sustain recovery. We will work towards tangible results — improved self confidence, better romantic and peer relationships, and sustained sobriety. Therapy is a safe space to start permanent healing. I am looking forward to hearing your story and to providing effective support.
(289) 278-6902 View (289) 278-6902
Photo of Jesse Roberts, MA, CPsych, Psychologist
Jesse Roberts
Psychologist, MA, CPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brampton, ON L6P
I am a registered Clinical and Forensic Psychologist offering individual therapy and assessment services (ADHD; WSIB; psychodiagnostic) through Silm Centre for Mental Health. I use a cognitive behavioral approach in my clinical work (e.g., CBT, DBT, CPT) and work collaboratively with clients to develop meaningful and individualized treatment plans. I see clients for a variety of concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma-related disorders, substance use issues, bipolar and psychotic disorders, and issues of emotion regulation (e.g. anger, self-harming).
I am a registered Clinical and Forensic Psychologist offering individual therapy and assessment services (ADHD; WSIB; psychodiagnostic) through Silm Centre for Mental Health. I use a cognitive behavioral approach in my clinical work (e.g., CBT, DBT, CPT) and work collaboratively with clients to develop meaningful and individualized treatment plans. I see clients for a variety of concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma-related disorders, substance use issues, bipolar and psychotic disorders, and issues of emotion regulation (e.g. anger, self-harming).
(437) 747-5628 View (437) 747-5628
Photo of Edward S Davey, RSW, MSW, BSc, Registered Social Worker
Edward S Davey
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, BSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brampton, ON L6P  (Online Only)
My areas of speciality include; depression, anxiety, ADHD, and managing certain personality disorders including (but not limited to) borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, and social anxiety. Other areas of focus include professional and/or workplace struggles/development including (but not limited to); procrastination, motivation, imposter syndrome, and perfectionism. My goal is to work with my clients towards recognizing and understanding exactly what is hindering their personal growth and acting as a barrier against success.
My areas of speciality include; depression, anxiety, ADHD, and managing certain personality disorders including (but not limited to) borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, and social anxiety. Other areas of focus include professional and/or workplace struggles/development including (but not limited to); procrastination, motivation, imposter syndrome, and perfectionism. My goal is to work with my clients towards recognizing and understanding exactly what is hindering their personal growth and acting as a barrier against success.
(548) 485-5914 View (548) 485-5914
Photo of Tijana Pesic, MSW, RSW, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Tijana Pesic
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brampton, ON L6S
I provide individual, couples & family therapy. Do you feel burdened by your thoughts? Are feeling overwhelmed? Do you find it challenging to fall asleep at night? Do you wish that you could just turn your mind off, to finally get a few moments of peace? I can help you take your life back, feel better, experience ease of being and get more restful sleep. I help individuals overcome anxiety, depression, burnout, overwhelm & stress. I also help couples who have many unmet needs; feel frustrated, resentful & angry in their relationship; struggle to communicate effectively; no longer experience intimacy or have lost trust.
I provide individual, couples & family therapy. Do you feel burdened by your thoughts? Are feeling overwhelmed? Do you find it challenging to fall asleep at night? Do you wish that you could just turn your mind off, to finally get a few moments of peace? I can help you take your life back, feel better, experience ease of being and get more restful sleep. I help individuals overcome anxiety, depression, burnout, overwhelm & stress. I also help couples who have many unmet needs; feel frustrated, resentful & angry in their relationship; struggle to communicate effectively; no longer experience intimacy or have lost trust.
(437) 747-8453 View (437) 747-8453
Photo of Navodhi Hewage - McDowall Psychology, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Navodhi Hewage - McDowall Psychology
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brampton, ON L6X
In-Person & Virtual - Accepting Client - No Waitlist - Insurance Coverage. McDowall Integrative Psychology & Healthcare (McDowall) is a team of registered psychologists, psychotherapists, counsellors and therapists-in-training who are committed to providing you with professional, compassionate therapy and assessment services. We offer traditional psychological and psychotherapy services, but when needed, we incorporate integrative therapies in order to provide optimal psychological outcomes. We use an integrative psychology approach that addresses the root causes of your mental health concerns.
In-Person & Virtual - Accepting Client - No Waitlist - Insurance Coverage. McDowall Integrative Psychology & Healthcare (McDowall) is a team of registered psychologists, psychotherapists, counsellors and therapists-in-training who are committed to providing you with professional, compassionate therapy and assessment services. We offer traditional psychological and psychotherapy services, but when needed, we incorporate integrative therapies in order to provide optimal psychological outcomes. We use an integrative psychology approach that addresses the root causes of your mental health concerns.
(289) 216-4707 x1 View (289) 216-4707 x1
Photo of Ruby Shah, MSW, BSc, Registered Social Worker
Ruby Shah
Registered Social Worker, MSW, BSc
Verified Verified
Brampton, ON L6W
*Accepting new clients* Life can be overwhelming and with challenges. I have 20+ years of experience working in mental health settings at various hospitals and clinics in the GTA. Making the decision to look into counselling or therapy can feel uncomfortable and intimidating at times. It's important to find a therapist with whom you feel comfortable. Together we will assess your current situation and the challenges you may be facing, brainstorm and examine the changes you would like to make. I will support you in establishing your goals, and create an intervention plan based on your strengths to support changes.
*Accepting new clients* Life can be overwhelming and with challenges. I have 20+ years of experience working in mental health settings at various hospitals and clinics in the GTA. Making the decision to look into counselling or therapy can feel uncomfortable and intimidating at times. It's important to find a therapist with whom you feel comfortable. Together we will assess your current situation and the challenges you may be facing, brainstorm and examine the changes you would like to make. I will support you in establishing your goals, and create an intervention plan based on your strengths to support changes.
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Photo of Randy Vinepal - Every Soul Healing Center, PsyD, RP, CHN, CHT, Reiki, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Every Soul Healing Center
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), PsyD, RP, CHN, CHT, Reiki
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brampton, ON L6X
Every Soul Healing Centre is a space of compassion, inviting you to embark on a journey of self-discovery and deep connection. Immerse yourself in an eclectic blend of therapeutic modalities, from psychotherapy to energy healing sessions that ignite profound shifts within you.
Every Soul Healing Centre is a space of compassion, inviting you to embark on a journey of self-discovery and deep connection. Immerse yourself in an eclectic blend of therapeutic modalities, from psychotherapy to energy healing sessions that ignite profound shifts within you.
(365) 987-4882 View (365) 987-4882
Photo of Dr. Jasmine Khattra, PhD, CPsych
Dr. Jasmine Khattra
Psychologist under supervised practice, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brampton, ON L6W
I am a registered clinical psychologist in supervised practice. I provide evidence-based psychotherapy to clients dealing depression, anxiety, stress life transitions (e.g., related to relationships, big life events, postpartum, health challenges), obsessions and compulsions, body image, trauma related to relationships/family, emotion management, relationship challenges, self-identity/self-esteem issues, and issues related to personal development. I also welcome opportunities to work with clients from diverse ethnic, racial, gender, sexual, ability, and faith backgrounds.
I am a registered clinical psychologist in supervised practice. I provide evidence-based psychotherapy to clients dealing depression, anxiety, stress life transitions (e.g., related to relationships, big life events, postpartum, health challenges), obsessions and compulsions, body image, trauma related to relationships/family, emotion management, relationship challenges, self-identity/self-esteem issues, and issues related to personal development. I also welcome opportunities to work with clients from diverse ethnic, racial, gender, sexual, ability, and faith backgrounds.
(289) 402-5064 View (289) 402-5064
Photo of Neeru Jindal, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Neeru Jindal
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brampton, ON L6Y  (Online Only)
Let’s walk the path together. Sometimes we feel out of sync with life. It is natural. Difficulties can leave anyone feeling lonely, stuck, overwhelmed, depressed, anxious, lost, empty or traumatized. I want you to know that if you're in pain, I can sit with you and support you. If you need a safe, compassionate and non-judgmental place to share your deep core wounds, traumas, fears, anger, sadness and difficult emotions, you can reach out to me. If you are a leading light who needs assistance coping with the burden of living up to your own or others' expectations, please contact me. We can explore the possibilities together.
Let’s walk the path together. Sometimes we feel out of sync with life. It is natural. Difficulties can leave anyone feeling lonely, stuck, overwhelmed, depressed, anxious, lost, empty or traumatized. I want you to know that if you're in pain, I can sit with you and support you. If you need a safe, compassionate and non-judgmental place to share your deep core wounds, traumas, fears, anger, sadness and difficult emotions, you can reach out to me. If you are a leading light who needs assistance coping with the burden of living up to your own or others' expectations, please contact me. We can explore the possibilities together.
(289) 514-5278 View (289) 514-5278
Photo of Lisa Mollica, BA, CYC, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Lisa Mollica
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, CYC, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brampton, ON L6Z
Do you ever feel like life shouldn't be this hard? It doesn't have to be! I know that reaching out for help is scary and I also know that an easier, more peaceful life IS possible. I'm passionate about helping individuals and families develop skills to cope with mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, and ADHD; heal from past trauma; boost communication skills; improve relationships; and manage problematic behaviours. Over my 14 years in practice, I've been lucky enough to have witnessed the happiness that comes from taking that step and I'd love to be able to help you get there too!.
Do you ever feel like life shouldn't be this hard? It doesn't have to be! I know that reaching out for help is scary and I also know that an easier, more peaceful life IS possible. I'm passionate about helping individuals and families develop skills to cope with mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, and ADHD; heal from past trauma; boost communication skills; improve relationships; and manage problematic behaviours. Over my 14 years in practice, I've been lucky enough to have witnessed the happiness that comes from taking that step and I'd love to be able to help you get there too!.
(289) 272-9479 View (289) 272-9479
Photo of Jaswant Kaur Bajwa, AWCCA, BA, MA, PhD, (CRPO), RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Jaswant Kaur Bajwa
Registered Psychotherapist, AWCCA, BA, MA, PhD, (CRPO), RP
Verified Verified
Brampton, ON L6Y  (Online Only)
I am here for you, working with clients from diverse backgrounds dealing with various psychosocial stressors, identity issues, relational dynamics both in their personal and/ work life. I work with clients who are seeking to make sense of their lived experiences, deal and recover from feelings of disempowerment and want to live their life with dignity, respect, and hope. My clients have history of trauma, PTSD, intergenerational issues, parenting, mental health issues, work stressors, conflict, parenting issues, refugee and immigration issues, burnout, discrimination, workplace violence & harassment issues.
I am here for you, working with clients from diverse backgrounds dealing with various psychosocial stressors, identity issues, relational dynamics both in their personal and/ work life. I work with clients who are seeking to make sense of their lived experiences, deal and recover from feelings of disempowerment and want to live their life with dignity, respect, and hope. My clients have history of trauma, PTSD, intergenerational issues, parenting, mental health issues, work stressors, conflict, parenting issues, refugee and immigration issues, burnout, discrimination, workplace violence & harassment issues.
(289) 276-8307 View (289) 276-8307
Photo of Renee Robinson, MSW, BSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Renee Robinson
Registered Social Worker, MSW, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brampton, ON L6X
Questioning your self-worth and purpose in life? Are your relationships in jeopardy due to past traumas and life stressors? Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed and don't know where to turn? You are not alone! I believe that people’s stories should be heard, acknowledged and validated, as bottling these stories inside often leads to more suffering. My specialty is working with individuals who experience anxiety, relationship strain, addictions and inter generational trauma. In this trusting and therapeutic relationship, each individual will develop effective and sustainable coping skills that will bring clarity and healing
Questioning your self-worth and purpose in life? Are your relationships in jeopardy due to past traumas and life stressors? Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed and don't know where to turn? You are not alone! I believe that people’s stories should be heard, acknowledged and validated, as bottling these stories inside often leads to more suffering. My specialty is working with individuals who experience anxiety, relationship strain, addictions and inter generational trauma. In this trusting and therapeutic relationship, each individual will develop effective and sustainable coping skills that will bring clarity and healing
(289) 217-8660 View (289) 217-8660
Photo of Fema Jacob - Fema Jacob @ Psychotherapy for You, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Fema Jacob @ Psychotherapy for You
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brampton, ON L6Y  (Online Only)
I want to understand the intricate details of your life that make you uniquely you and would be honoured to facilitate the process of your self discovery and healing. I love working with individuals in all walks of life including but not limited to individuals experiencing anxiety, panic and/or anxiety attacks, phobias, issues controlling anger, individuals wanting to improve self-esteem, those suffering from grief and loss of relationships, addictions, as well as those individuals looking for support with general life stressors.
I want to understand the intricate details of your life that make you uniquely you and would be honoured to facilitate the process of your self discovery and healing. I love working with individuals in all walks of life including but not limited to individuals experiencing anxiety, panic and/or anxiety attacks, phobias, issues controlling anger, individuals wanting to improve self-esteem, those suffering from grief and loss of relationships, addictions, as well as those individuals looking for support with general life stressors.
(289) 312-3208 View (289) 312-3208
Photo of Ramaljeet Kaur, RK, CCC, MA, Hons,, BSC(N), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Ramaljeet Kaur
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RK, CCC, MA, Hons,, BSC(N)
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brampton, ON L6S  (Online Only)
What are you trying to accomplish? Do you think that this never-ending rat race that we call life is meaningless? What even constitutes a meaningful life? In my role as your therapist, I'm here to help you overcome any obstacles that are preventing you from leading the best possible life, whether they be personal or professional. Whether you're having problems with relationships, depression, or anxiety. My goal is to assist you in achieving growth and positive transformation in your life. In order to provide you the ability to make decisions that result in a more purposeful and happy life my approach is customized to your needs.
What are you trying to accomplish? Do you think that this never-ending rat race that we call life is meaningless? What even constitutes a meaningful life? In my role as your therapist, I'm here to help you overcome any obstacles that are preventing you from leading the best possible life, whether they be personal or professional. Whether you're having problems with relationships, depression, or anxiety. My goal is to assist you in achieving growth and positive transformation in your life. In order to provide you the ability to make decisions that result in a more purposeful and happy life my approach is customized to your needs.
(289) 277-7086 View (289) 277-7086
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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.