Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Oakville, ON
![Photo of Shankari Sharma, MA, Psychological Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50e7a222-61d3-458f-8bd5-0870beedc90c/1/320x400.jpeg)
At the Therapy Centre, Shankari provides individual, couple, and family therapy for adults. Her areas of interest and proficiency include diagnostic assessment and treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depressive and bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, relationship difficulties, assertiveness, stress and burnout, anger management, and personality disorders. She has a particular interest in the treatment of PTSD, trauma- and stressor-related disorders, and the variety of individual and interpersonal sequelae of traumatic experiences.
At the Therapy Centre, Shankari provides individual, couple, and family therapy for adults. Her areas of interest and proficiency include diagnostic assessment and treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depressive and bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, relationship difficulties, assertiveness, stress and burnout, anger management, and personality disorders. She has a particular interest in the treatment of PTSD, trauma- and stressor-related disorders, and the variety of individual and interpersonal sequelae of traumatic experiences.
![Photo of Houyuan Luo, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/973e5c5f-59b2-4645-9168-19d8c16df1a9/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have received solid training in providing psychological assessment and psychotherapy to adults with various concerns such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, excessive emotions or emotional flatness, relationship issues, stress management, anger management, self-criticism, psychosis and psychological intervention of physical illnesses (e.
I am Dr. Houyuan Luo. I am a registered Counselling/Clinical/Health Psychologist and an experienced CBT & ACT therapist in Toronto, Ontario. Thanks for reading my profile, and congratulations on considering the journey of healing and living a meaningful life! As human beings, we all feel vulnerable and struggle with things at times. Nobody is swimming their way through life smoothly and without bumps. As a psychologist, I am your co-traveller. About me: I earned a Ph.D. in Counselling Psychology from the University of Alberta. I aspire to provide high-quality psychological services. More about me on mindpeace.ca/teams/
I have received solid training in providing psychological assessment and psychotherapy to adults with various concerns such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, excessive emotions or emotional flatness, relationship issues, stress management, anger management, self-criticism, psychosis and psychological intervention of physical illnesses (e.
I am Dr. Houyuan Luo. I am a registered Counselling/Clinical/Health Psychologist and an experienced CBT & ACT therapist in Toronto, Ontario. Thanks for reading my profile, and congratulations on considering the journey of healing and living a meaningful life! As human beings, we all feel vulnerable and struggle with things at times. Nobody is swimming their way through life smoothly and without bumps. As a psychologist, I am your co-traveller. About me: I earned a Ph.D. in Counselling Psychology from the University of Alberta. I aspire to provide high-quality psychological services. More about me on mindpeace.ca/teams/
![Photo of Lyba Sultan, BASC, MA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/437b7fcc-fb7d-4f83-9495-5a66e89b7b43/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lyba Sultan
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BASC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6J (Online Only)
Accepting new clients! Are you wanting to unlearn unhelpful thought patterns and behaviours? Looking to find more balance and harmony in your life? As a therapist with a passion for untangling the complexities of ADHD, Complex Trauma, Borderline Personality Disorder and Bipolar Disorder, I offer you a sanctuary where your unique journey is met with compassion and grace. I strive to create a safe space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgement. Together, we can unravel mental, energetic and creative blocks that may be holding you back from meeting your highest potential.
Accepting new clients! Are you wanting to unlearn unhelpful thought patterns and behaviours? Looking to find more balance and harmony in your life? As a therapist with a passion for untangling the complexities of ADHD, Complex Trauma, Borderline Personality Disorder and Bipolar Disorder, I offer you a sanctuary where your unique journey is met with compassion and grace. I strive to create a safe space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgement. Together, we can unravel mental, energetic and creative blocks that may be holding you back from meeting your highest potential.
![Photo of Arzu Ferguson, MSc, CPsych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a016d6bf-ac73-47f6-b1d9-0db1b6e195bd/2/320x400.png)
Life isn’t fair and it’s definitely not easy. No one should have to go through difficult life challenges alone. You might be feeling overwhelmed or stuck. Maybe you are not sure what to do next. I have over 25 years of experience in the assessment and treatment of children, teens and adults. As a licensed Clinical and Counselling Psychologist and Psychotherapist, my utmost goal is to make you feel safe, unjudged and listened. I thrive to provide a caring and welcoming environment. I have helped many people struggling with Anxiety, Depression, Borderline Personality, OCD, Panic attacks, Health Anxiety, Trauma, PTSD, ADHD and Autism.
Life isn’t fair and it’s definitely not easy. No one should have to go through difficult life challenges alone. You might be feeling overwhelmed or stuck. Maybe you are not sure what to do next. I have over 25 years of experience in the assessment and treatment of children, teens and adults. As a licensed Clinical and Counselling Psychologist and Psychotherapist, my utmost goal is to make you feel safe, unjudged and listened. I thrive to provide a caring and welcoming environment. I have helped many people struggling with Anxiety, Depression, Borderline Personality, OCD, Panic attacks, Health Anxiety, Trauma, PTSD, ADHD and Autism.
![Photo of Matthew King, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/408359a6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I strive to provide clients with a safe, non-judgmental, and warm environment where they can feel comfortable discussing the issues that are most distressing for them. I specialize in cognitive behavioural therapy for mood and anxiety disorders, insomnia, and psychosis. I also have experience with women's health issues (e.g., postpartum depression, menopause). I believe that my clients can make meaningful progress with the right tools and a genuine therapeutic relationship.
I strive to provide clients with a safe, non-judgmental, and warm environment where they can feel comfortable discussing the issues that are most distressing for them. I specialize in cognitive behavioural therapy for mood and anxiety disorders, insomnia, and psychosis. I also have experience with women's health issues (e.g., postpartum depression, menopause). I believe that my clients can make meaningful progress with the right tools and a genuine therapeutic relationship.
![Photo of Esra Magsoud, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/348c9774-f85c-44e6-8bfc-74f0ea3802c6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Esra Magsoud
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6L (Online Only)
I provide individual, couples & family therapy to children, youth & adults. Deciding to seek therapy is an important step forward & I look forward to supporting you on your journey of personal growth. Whether you desire to make strides in your emotional, personal, social, or mental health, I will facilitate positive changes to improve your quality of life. I believe that safely & openly exploring your emotions in a positive & helpful environment is crucial. We will collaboratively create treatment plans & goals together, according to your unique needs, preferences & values. I apply an intersectional lens to promote cultural safety.
I provide individual, couples & family therapy to children, youth & adults. Deciding to seek therapy is an important step forward & I look forward to supporting you on your journey of personal growth. Whether you desire to make strides in your emotional, personal, social, or mental health, I will facilitate positive changes to improve your quality of life. I believe that safely & openly exploring your emotions in a positive & helpful environment is crucial. We will collaboratively create treatment plans & goals together, according to your unique needs, preferences & values. I apply an intersectional lens to promote cultural safety.
![Photo of Maria Antoniou, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d4f0d6c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a registered Clinical and Counselling Psychologist who works in a private practice providing assessment and treatment to children, adolescents, adults and families with a wide variety of issues. I have over 10 years experience working with depression and anxiety, self-esteem, relationship difficulties, stress management, behavioural issues, body image and eating disorders. My clinical training took place at various hospital and community based settings, including the Hospital for Sick Children.
I am a registered Clinical and Counselling Psychologist who works in a private practice providing assessment and treatment to children, adolescents, adults and families with a wide variety of issues. I have over 10 years experience working with depression and anxiety, self-esteem, relationship difficulties, stress management, behavioural issues, body image and eating disorders. My clinical training took place at various hospital and community based settings, including the Hospital for Sick Children.
![Photo of Suzanne Dumais, BA, BEd, MDiv, RMFT, RP, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48f576e4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Suzanne Dumais
Marriage & Family Therapist, BA, BEd, MDiv, RMFT, RP
Verified Verified
Oakville, ON L6J
Life is a journey, like every great journey it has its certainties and uncertainties. As a registered marriage and family therapist I am trained in systemic, relationships and psychotherapy. I believe that throughout life we exist in many type of relationships, that directly or indirectly impact our well beings. Research and theory have shown that mental illness and family issues are best treated in the context of relationships. My therapeutic approach to counseling is non judgmental, kind, graceful, understanding and I value my clients input in the session. I use Gottman Method Couple Therapy in my work.
Life is a journey, like every great journey it has its certainties and uncertainties. As a registered marriage and family therapist I am trained in systemic, relationships and psychotherapy. I believe that throughout life we exist in many type of relationships, that directly or indirectly impact our well beings. Research and theory have shown that mental illness and family issues are best treated in the context of relationships. My therapeutic approach to counseling is non judgmental, kind, graceful, understanding and I value my clients input in the session. I use Gottman Method Couple Therapy in my work.
![Photo of Ramona Marin, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7671abec-bd45-41d8-8e0c-73917a1c8df8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to my profile and to the first step in your healing journey ! Imagine how would feel to be healed from struggling with a traumatic past that affects your mental health, self-esteem, and relationships ! If you have a history of Complex PTSD, childhood attachment trauma, have experienced critical incidents like car accidents, and/or have suffered from anxiety/depression, chronic pain, eating disorders, self esteem and/ or relationship struggles please do not hesitate to contact me. Together we can start your healing and self-development journey so you can live a life free emotional, psychological, and relationship struggles .
Welcome to my profile and to the first step in your healing journey ! Imagine how would feel to be healed from struggling with a traumatic past that affects your mental health, self-esteem, and relationships ! If you have a history of Complex PTSD, childhood attachment trauma, have experienced critical incidents like car accidents, and/or have suffered from anxiety/depression, chronic pain, eating disorders, self esteem and/ or relationship struggles please do not hesitate to contact me. Together we can start your healing and self-development journey so you can live a life free emotional, psychological, and relationship struggles .
![Photo of Uzma Ilahi, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e9c326a1-61e6-4e4f-9cf7-fb8016f8511d/3/320x400.jpeg)
You might be looking to increase psychological fitness, or make sense of past wounds, or make a change in your present way of being in the world – I offer a safe, non judgmental and supportive space to facilitate your healing. My work is to help you experience who you truly are, harness your personal strength and overcome your challenges. I work with a firm belief in the resilience of the human spirit and this belief is supported by a solid educational base, a multi-cultural variety of life experience, and a range of counselling skills and tools that makes it possible for me to meet your individual needs.
You might be looking to increase psychological fitness, or make sense of past wounds, or make a change in your present way of being in the world – I offer a safe, non judgmental and supportive space to facilitate your healing. My work is to help you experience who you truly are, harness your personal strength and overcome your challenges. I work with a firm belief in the resilience of the human spirit and this belief is supported by a solid educational base, a multi-cultural variety of life experience, and a range of counselling skills and tools that makes it possible for me to meet your individual needs.
![Photo of Jacqueline Y Tan, RP, RMFT, MSc, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/444b9522-9984-4ea5-839e-d47d29100db8/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jacqueline Y Tan
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, RMFT, MSc
Verified Verified
Oakville, ON L6H
Waitlist for new clients
Life is a journey of discovery and constant learning - about ourselves, others, or the world around us. It is a journey of setting goals, making decisions, adjusting to changes, and finding the congruence within one self. The more we travel on this journey, hopefully the more peaceful, enlightened and complete we become. My aim is to help you uncover the self and support you with compassion and helpful tools in your journey to reach your potentials. I am result-oriented. My various experiences has afforded me a deep understanding of people's life experiences, combined with the extensive clinical training, for me to help you.
Life is a journey of discovery and constant learning - about ourselves, others, or the world around us. It is a journey of setting goals, making decisions, adjusting to changes, and finding the congruence within one self. The more we travel on this journey, hopefully the more peaceful, enlightened and complete we become. My aim is to help you uncover the self and support you with compassion and helpful tools in your journey to reach your potentials. I am result-oriented. My various experiences has afforded me a deep understanding of people's life experiences, combined with the extensive clinical training, for me to help you.
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![Photo of Victoria Kulchytska, BSc, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f90901b7-59cf-49f6-b71f-169dfefcc6d0/1/320x400.png)
Victoria Kulchytska
Registered Social Worker, BSc, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6H
Victoria is a warm, caring, non-judgemental professional who offers her compassion, openness, and insight that enables her clients to reflect and draw on meaningful connections about themselves in a safe therapeutic environment. What she appreciates most in a client is their commitment to the therapeutic process, their willingness to be open to initiating change, and most importantly their personal self-reflection practice.
Victoria is a warm, caring, non-judgemental professional who offers her compassion, openness, and insight that enables her clients to reflect and draw on meaningful connections about themselves in a safe therapeutic environment. What she appreciates most in a client is their commitment to the therapeutic process, their willingness to be open to initiating change, and most importantly their personal self-reflection practice.
![Photo of Marla McGregor, CPsych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee43e138-9dc5-41d3-a1a1-27fb11a972cd/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a registered Psychologist who currently works in private practice providing both assessment and treatment services for a wide range of mental health issues. I have over 15 years of experience working with depression and anxiety, relationship difficulties, self-esteem, anger and stress management, trauma and grief/loss. I have had a broad base of experience working within hospital settings, university counselling centres, community based agencies and private practice. I bring a warm approach to my work with clients, providing a safe and supportive environment to help facilitate change and growth. I tailor all treatment plans to the individual client.
I am a registered Psychologist who currently works in private practice providing both assessment and treatment services for a wide range of mental health issues. I have over 15 years of experience working with depression and anxiety, relationship difficulties, self-esteem, anger and stress management, trauma and grief/loss. I have had a broad base of experience working within hospital settings, university counselling centres, community based agencies and private practice. I bring a warm approach to my work with clients, providing a safe and supportive environment to help facilitate change and growth. I tailor all treatment plans to the individual client.
![Photo of Kimberly Cato, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/33ebb766-0722-4976-a7ce-e04379fa4544/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome & Hello. My name is Kimberly Cato and I am a Spiritual Midwife, Registered Psychotherapist, CEO & Founder of True Roots Counselling Services for almost 30 years. It is my passion, my heart’s delight, to come alongside people blindsided and overwhelmed by life-altering circumstances and empower them to Transform Their Trauma Into Triumph. We are SO very delighted that you have made the difficult & courageous decision to reach out for help. We offer Individual, Couples, & Group Therapy and various Therapeutic Programs strategically designed through a trauma-informed lens that empower clients to reclaim their Ancestral Roots.
Welcome & Hello. My name is Kimberly Cato and I am a Spiritual Midwife, Registered Psychotherapist, CEO & Founder of True Roots Counselling Services for almost 30 years. It is my passion, my heart’s delight, to come alongside people blindsided and overwhelmed by life-altering circumstances and empower them to Transform Their Trauma Into Triumph. We are SO very delighted that you have made the difficult & courageous decision to reach out for help. We offer Individual, Couples, & Group Therapy and various Therapeutic Programs strategically designed through a trauma-informed lens that empower clients to reclaim their Ancestral Roots.
![Photo of Natasha Huff, MSW RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/166e4e73-53b7-4ab3-859f-a84d934c9ba2/3/320x400.jpeg)
I offer individual, couple and family therapy for a wide range of issues including; divorce/separation, trauma, grief, co-parenting, substance abuse, school refusal, family conflict, eating disorders and mental health (specifically, anxiety and depression). I have assisted many couples and families in improving their relationships with one another, providing them with the ability to communicate, respect and understand each other better using Collaborative Problem Solving and Emotion-focussed therapy.
I offer individual, couple and family therapy for a wide range of issues including; divorce/separation, trauma, grief, co-parenting, substance abuse, school refusal, family conflict, eating disorders and mental health (specifically, anxiety and depression). I have assisted many couples and families in improving their relationships with one another, providing them with the ability to communicate, respect and understand each other better using Collaborative Problem Solving and Emotion-focussed therapy.
![Photo of Aleksei Panov, MA Psy, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f360829-1191-4b1b-bea5-65478de03965/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have a strong foundation in psychology and use various techniques to assist those struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, anger management, low self-esteem, phobias, chronic pain, and PTSD. My expertise has been honed through work with clients of diverse backgrounds and ages, and I am fluent in both English and Russian. My goal is to provide a supportive and safe environment for individuals to find the strength and resilience to grow and change.
I have a strong foundation in psychology and use various techniques to assist those struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, anger management, low self-esteem, phobias, chronic pain, and PTSD. My expertise has been honed through work with clients of diverse backgrounds and ages, and I am fluent in both English and Russian. My goal is to provide a supportive and safe environment for individuals to find the strength and resilience to grow and change.
![Photo of Stacy Olieux -Emotion Regulation -Depression -Trauma, MACP, BSc, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c6f0287-3a08-49d9-8651-5f7695539186/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stacy Olieux -Emotion Regulation -Depression -Trauma
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, BSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6M (Online Only)
Are you someone who struggles with big emotions, leading to relationship issues? Perhaps you feel overwhelmed with life and are not sure where to turn to for some relief. Do you struggle with depression or anxiety? Maybe you have been diagnosed with a personality disorder and feel isolated in dealing with the symptoms of the disorder. Life can be overwhelming at times for many of us, but with the added stress of mental health struggles, it can feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders and you may feel lost and disconnected. If you want to change these characteristics of your life, you have come to the right place.
Are you someone who struggles with big emotions, leading to relationship issues? Perhaps you feel overwhelmed with life and are not sure where to turn to for some relief. Do you struggle with depression or anxiety? Maybe you have been diagnosed with a personality disorder and feel isolated in dealing with the symptoms of the disorder. Life can be overwhelming at times for many of us, but with the added stress of mental health struggles, it can feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders and you may feel lost and disconnected. If you want to change these characteristics of your life, you have come to the right place.
![Photo of Wendy Wang, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/15d4bea6-0b60-488e-8f1b-b44576d13491/3/320x400.jpeg)
Wendy Wang
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6J (Online Only)
Welcome!
I’m a registered psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario and a certified hypnotist accredited by the National Guild of Hypnotists. I offer counseling services in both English and Mandarin. Life can be overwhelming at times, with stressors, trauma, or habits that keep us feeling stuck. Facing these challenges isn’t easy, but taking that step is one of the most empowering decisions you can make. My goal is to provide you with a safe, supportive environment where you can begin to heal and thrive.
Welcome!
I’m a registered psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario and a certified hypnotist accredited by the National Guild of Hypnotists. I offer counseling services in both English and Mandarin. Life can be overwhelming at times, with stressors, trauma, or habits that keep us feeling stuck. Facing these challenges isn’t easy, but taking that step is one of the most empowering decisions you can make. My goal is to provide you with a safe, supportive environment where you can begin to heal and thrive.
![Photo of Maria Antoniou - The Therapy Centre, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/39edd76f-1e26-45e9-836c-e7733099707f/1/320x400.jpeg)
The Therapy Centre is a full service psychology practice. We offer services to children, teens, adults, couples, and families. We offer psychological and neuropsychological assessment and treatment services for a wide variety of issues listed below. All of our clinicians are well trained in empirically validated treatment models, including: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Relational Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and EMDR. Each of our clinicians has an area of expertise and tailors treatment to target therapeutic goals.
The Therapy Centre is a full service psychology practice. We offer services to children, teens, adults, couples, and families. We offer psychological and neuropsychological assessment and treatment services for a wide variety of issues listed below. All of our clinicians are well trained in empirically validated treatment models, including: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Relational Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and EMDR. Each of our clinicians has an area of expertise and tailors treatment to target therapeutic goals.
![Photo of Rosetta Racco, RP, BA, ECE, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f3798d13-5f99-4870-afc5-775ed8b16477/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have been working with children, adolescents, and autistics across all lifespans for about 30 years. I’m a neurodivergent affirming psychotherapist. Most of my experience has been working with ASD,OCD, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Childhood Attachment & Trauma, Transgender Teens, Social Skills, LGBTQ2s+, Executive Functioning & Emotional Regulation. I use a personalized approach with each individual, includes psychodynamic psychotherapy, the use of assessment tools, individual interviews, child developmental and adult history, attachment theories, sensorimotor activities, play and art-based therapy, CBT, and mindfulness.
I have been working with children, adolescents, and autistics across all lifespans for about 30 years. I’m a neurodivergent affirming psychotherapist. Most of my experience has been working with ASD,OCD, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Childhood Attachment & Trauma, Transgender Teens, Social Skills, LGBTQ2s+, Executive Functioning & Emotional Regulation. I use a personalized approach with each individual, includes psychodynamic psychotherapy, the use of assessment tools, individual interviews, child developmental and adult history, attachment theories, sensorimotor activities, play and art-based therapy, CBT, and mindfulness.
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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.