Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Woodbridge, ON

Photo of Sara Rizvi, BA, MA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Sara Rizvi
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbridge, ON L4L
You’ve taken the first step towards making a healthy and positive change to your life. You do not need to embark on this journey alone, I can help you reach the goals you’re hoping to achieve. With years of educational and professional experience in the mental health field and working with people from all walks of life, I’ve gained an understanding of the importance of individuality and incorporating that into my therapeutic approach. Whether you are working through trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues or something else, I will provide a space that is warm, non-judgemental and safe.
You’ve taken the first step towards making a healthy and positive change to your life. You do not need to embark on this journey alone, I can help you reach the goals you’re hoping to achieve. With years of educational and professional experience in the mental health field and working with people from all walks of life, I’ve gained an understanding of the importance of individuality and incorporating that into my therapeutic approach. Whether you are working through trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues or something else, I will provide a space that is warm, non-judgemental and safe.
(289) 302-6717 View (289) 302-6717
Photo of Lindsy Berman - Soulstice Health Inc., RSW, MSW, ADS, RYT, CSEPCPT, Registered Social Worker
Soulstice Health Inc.
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, ADS, RYT, CSEPCPT
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, ON L4L
Soulstice Health Inc. is a community-based Wellness Centre that adopts a holistic understanding of mental and physical health. We aspire to foster optimal personal health and healing from a mind, body, and soul approach. To truly tap into our greatest potential, we believe that self-connection is essential. Working collaboratively with individuals affected by mental health and/or addiction concerns, we support them in finding their own meaningful paths to healing. We are dedicated to helping you find your true self while fostering improved self-care, building on capacity, and realizing your fullest potential.
Soulstice Health Inc. is a community-based Wellness Centre that adopts a holistic understanding of mental and physical health. We aspire to foster optimal personal health and healing from a mind, body, and soul approach. To truly tap into our greatest potential, we believe that self-connection is essential. Working collaboratively with individuals affected by mental health and/or addiction concerns, we support them in finding their own meaningful paths to healing. We are dedicated to helping you find your true self while fostering improved self-care, building on capacity, and realizing your fullest potential.
(647) 564-5872 View (647) 564-5872
Photo of Shabnam Sarah Moulaei - Talk to Heal Counselling Services, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Talk to Heal Counselling Services
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, ON L4L
Is anxiety getting in the way of living? Do you often wonder if your personal life should be better? Are you living in your past - unable to move forward? Do you find yourself disconnected from yourself or your partner? Do you feel safe in your family? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and unsure about how they are supposed to manage different and all demanding aspects of their day-to-day life including, their time, careers, and their families. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself might look like an easy solution at first, but long term it can create mental and physical challenges.
Is anxiety getting in the way of living? Do you often wonder if your personal life should be better? Are you living in your past - unable to move forward? Do you find yourself disconnected from yourself or your partner? Do you feel safe in your family? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and unsure about how they are supposed to manage different and all demanding aspects of their day-to-day life including, their time, careers, and their families. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself might look like an easy solution at first, but long term it can create mental and physical challenges.
(416) 831-2363 View (416) 831-2363
Photo of Ivana Mitchell, MSW, RSW, RP, CDWF, Registered Social Worker
Ivana Mitchell
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, RP, CDWF
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Woodbridge, ON L4L  (Online Only)
Are you ready to learn strategies to overcome unproductive thought patterns and behaviours that get in your way? Wanting to cultivate satisfying relationships and meaningful connections with others? Do you wish to gain skills to embrace all emotions without being ruled by them? Are you ready to take risks, be courageous, and love with your whole heart? I am a Registered Social Worker, Registered Psychotherapist, and a Certified Daring Way(tm) Facilitator and I would like to help!
Are you ready to learn strategies to overcome unproductive thought patterns and behaviours that get in your way? Wanting to cultivate satisfying relationships and meaningful connections with others? Do you wish to gain skills to embrace all emotions without being ruled by them? Are you ready to take risks, be courageous, and love with your whole heart? I am a Registered Social Worker, Registered Psychotherapist, and a Certified Daring Way(tm) Facilitator and I would like to help!
(647) 490-2245 View (647) 490-2245
Photo of Fatin Hasan, PhD, Psych, Registered Psychotherapist
Fatin Hasan
Registered Psychotherapist, PhD, Psych
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, ON L4H
Highly experienced in international Psychology Case Studies. Well practiced in Prevention Trauma Stress Impact, Depression, Anxiety, and personal stress. Former university professor with over 18 years of administering psychotherapy, 18 years of counseling and conducting research.
Highly experienced in international Psychology Case Studies. Well practiced in Prevention Trauma Stress Impact, Depression, Anxiety, and personal stress. Former university professor with over 18 years of administering psychotherapy, 18 years of counseling and conducting research.
(647) 371-5263 View (647) 371-5263
Photo of Jessica Malynyk - Psychotherapy and Wellness of Central Ontario, BSc, RSSW, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist
Psychotherapy and Wellness of Central Ontario
Registered Psychotherapist, BSc, RSSW, MACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Woodbridge, ON L4H  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Jessica Malynyk is the founder of Psychotherapy and Wellness of Central Ontario and a Registered Psychotherapist (11052). Since 2014, she has provided psychotherapeutic support in community settings to individuals dealing with a variety of mental health concerns/stressors including, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, emotional dysregulation, relationships, family conflict, grief/loss and substance abuse. (see issues for full list.) Jessica brings forth her professional training and education, but, it is her personal life experience that really allows her to foster a deep connection with her clients.
Jessica Malynyk is the founder of Psychotherapy and Wellness of Central Ontario and a Registered Psychotherapist (11052). Since 2014, she has provided psychotherapeutic support in community settings to individuals dealing with a variety of mental health concerns/stressors including, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, emotional dysregulation, relationships, family conflict, grief/loss and substance abuse. (see issues for full list.) Jessica brings forth her professional training and education, but, it is her personal life experience that really allows her to foster a deep connection with her clients.
(249) 501-5226 View (249) 501-5226
Photo of Maria Pitiakoudis, PsyD, CPsych, Psychologist
Maria Pitiakoudis
Psychologist, PsyD, CPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbridge, ON L4H  (Online Only)
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist registered with the College of Psychologist of Ontario. I have a Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology and an M.A. in Counseling Psychology from the Adler School of Professional Psychology in Chicago. My clinical training is integrative, and includes a directive Cognitive Behavioral method, a more introspective Psychodynamic approach, as well as a holistic Mindfulness style. I incorporate various therapeutic modalities into my clinical practice in accordance with the individual needs of each patient. I am fluent in English and Greek. I currently conduct virtual therapy.
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist registered with the College of Psychologist of Ontario. I have a Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology and an M.A. in Counseling Psychology from the Adler School of Professional Psychology in Chicago. My clinical training is integrative, and includes a directive Cognitive Behavioral method, a more introspective Psychodynamic approach, as well as a holistic Mindfulness style. I incorporate various therapeutic modalities into my clinical practice in accordance with the individual needs of each patient. I am fluent in English and Greek. I currently conduct virtual therapy.
(855) 976-9803 View (855) 976-9803
Photo of Mary Marano, MA, RP, Counsellor
Mary Marano
Counsellor, MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbridge, ON L4H
For many, therapy is sought out because of a crisis situation. It is difficult to live with feelings of anxiety, anger and despair. These feelings can affect your marriage, family, children and work life by creating conflict. It is my hope to restore a sense of calm during this time of self discovery and support you through life's challenges. I will offer you realistic, easy to use tools and strategies that can work to repair and enhance your relationships. Learn to set boundaries, repair and recover from infidelity, manage anger and build trust in a safe and compassionate environment.
For many, therapy is sought out because of a crisis situation. It is difficult to live with feelings of anxiety, anger and despair. These feelings can affect your marriage, family, children and work life by creating conflict. It is my hope to restore a sense of calm during this time of self discovery and support you through life's challenges. I will offer you realistic, easy to use tools and strategies that can work to repair and enhance your relationships. Learn to set boundaries, repair and recover from infidelity, manage anger and build trust in a safe and compassionate environment.
(855) 979-7719 View (855) 979-7719
Photo of Arbus Weidenfelder - Dr. Arbus & Dr. Weidenfelder and Associates, CPsych, Psychologist
Dr. Arbus & Dr. Weidenfelder and Associates
Psychologist, CPsych
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, ON L4H
Dr. Arbus and Dr. Weidenfelder are registered clinical psychologists with the College of Psychologists of Ontario and are memebers of the Ontario Psychological Association. Currently, both doctors work full time at our private practice location treating children, adolescents, adults, and families with a variety of mental health needs. At our office we provide numerous psychological services including psychodianostic and psychoeducational assessments, psychotherapy, and consultation. Dr. Arbus and Dr. Weidenfelder have extensive experience in both hospital and community based treatment centers including Brampton Civic Hospital, McMaster Children's Hospital, and Whitby Mental Health Center. We look forward to helping you.
Dr. Arbus and Dr. Weidenfelder are registered clinical psychologists with the College of Psychologists of Ontario and are memebers of the Ontario Psychological Association. Currently, both doctors work full time at our private practice location treating children, adolescents, adults, and families with a variety of mental health needs. At our office we provide numerous psychological services including psychodianostic and psychoeducational assessments, psychotherapy, and consultation. Dr. Arbus and Dr. Weidenfelder have extensive experience in both hospital and community based treatment centers including Brampton Civic Hospital, McMaster Children's Hospital, and Whitby Mental Health Center. We look forward to helping you.
(647) 933-9775 View (647) 933-9775
Photo of Stefanie Gorendar - York Region Healing Arts, BA, Hons, MA, RP, ECPC, Registered Psychotherapist
York Region Healing Arts
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, Hons, MA, RP, ECPC
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, ON L4H
Are you looking to make some positive changes in your life? Are you tired of being stuck in a rut? If you are struggling with life transitions, relationship difficulties, stress, anxiety or depression we provide a warm environment to explore those struggles in order to work with you to create the life that you want to live. Stefanie is a registered psychotherapist and certified life coach and utilizes skills from both areas to work through those difficulties. We also offer flexible scheduling times such as weekdays, evenings, and weekends.
Are you looking to make some positive changes in your life? Are you tired of being stuck in a rut? If you are struggling with life transitions, relationship difficulties, stress, anxiety or depression we provide a warm environment to explore those struggles in order to work with you to create the life that you want to live. Stefanie is a registered psychotherapist and certified life coach and utilizes skills from both areas to work through those difficulties. We also offer flexible scheduling times such as weekdays, evenings, and weekends.
(289) 277-0520 View (289) 277-0520
Photo of Patricia A Weinberg, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Patricia A Weinberg
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, ON L4L
We offer adult, child, teenager, family and couple's counselling. Focusing on the strengths, abilities and feelings of our patients, we can help them move forward and make positive changes in their lives. We help to improve relationships, behaviours and academic performance, as well as to deal positively with difficult situations and work on emotional issues. As we’re a group of professionals from different cultural backgrounds, we can offer services in different languages, and with an understanding of different cultures. Our services are covered by most insurance companies and we offer reduced fees through our internship program.
We offer adult, child, teenager, family and couple's counselling. Focusing on the strengths, abilities and feelings of our patients, we can help them move forward and make positive changes in their lives. We help to improve relationships, behaviours and academic performance, as well as to deal positively with difficult situations and work on emotional issues. As we’re a group of professionals from different cultural backgrounds, we can offer services in different languages, and with an understanding of different cultures. Our services are covered by most insurance companies and we offer reduced fees through our internship program.
(289) 236-3253 View (289) 236-3253
Photo of Dr. Ambreen Basria, PsyD, CPsych, Psychologist
Dr. Ambreen Basria
Psychologist, PsyD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, ON L4L
I work with clients that are gender non conforming, exploring gender identity, fertility challenges, postpartum and perinatal mental health issues, relational issues, anxiety, depression, mood related concerns, first responders, and exploring their own identity. I work with clients from a solution focus, humanistic, and person centered approach. I believe the client is the expert in their life, their challenges, and really emphasize guiding treatment through the lens of the client. I offer virtual sessions and in person sessions, which gives you the luxury of having therapy in the space of your own comfort.
I work with clients that are gender non conforming, exploring gender identity, fertility challenges, postpartum and perinatal mental health issues, relational issues, anxiety, depression, mood related concerns, first responders, and exploring their own identity. I work with clients from a solution focus, humanistic, and person centered approach. I believe the client is the expert in their life, their challenges, and really emphasize guiding treatment through the lens of the client. I offer virtual sessions and in person sessions, which gives you the luxury of having therapy in the space of your own comfort.
(289) 797-3202 View (289) 797-3202
Photo of Ashley Chiappetta, BA, MACP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Ashley Chiappetta
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Woodbridge, ON L4L  (Online Only)
Looking to grow and heal? Learn more about me and my practice at www.mindfulwithyou.com - My commitment is to create a safe and supportive space for your personal growth and healing journey and my approach is rooted in the belief that a strong therapeutic relationship can be the foundation for meaningful change. I strive to be a relatable and understanding presence in your life, fostering an environment where you feel heard, valued, and truly understood. My passion lies in the transformative power of healing – whether that be your inner child, past trauma or going through change or life transitions.
Looking to grow and heal? Learn more about me and my practice at www.mindfulwithyou.com - My commitment is to create a safe and supportive space for your personal growth and healing journey and my approach is rooted in the belief that a strong therapeutic relationship can be the foundation for meaningful change. I strive to be a relatable and understanding presence in your life, fostering an environment where you feel heard, valued, and truly understood. My passion lies in the transformative power of healing – whether that be your inner child, past trauma or going through change or life transitions.
(365) 305-0168 View (365) 305-0168
Photo of Stephanie Barbosa, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Stephanie Barbosa
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbridge, ON L4H
My ideal client is anyone that may be struggling with their mood, or are in a difficult life stage that they need help navigating. Whether you are a child with separation anxiety, an adolescent or young adult going through a break up or a first time parent. I welcome clients who have specific goals for therapy and know what they want to work on. I also welcome clients who have no idea what goal setting is or how to set goals. I encourage the very brave and courageous clients who are skeptical about therapy and aren’t quite sure what they can gain from therapy or how they can benefit.
My ideal client is anyone that may be struggling with their mood, or are in a difficult life stage that they need help navigating. Whether you are a child with separation anxiety, an adolescent or young adult going through a break up or a first time parent. I welcome clients who have specific goals for therapy and know what they want to work on. I also welcome clients who have no idea what goal setting is or how to set goals. I encourage the very brave and courageous clients who are skeptical about therapy and aren’t quite sure what they can gain from therapy or how they can benefit.
(289) 212-6894 View (289) 212-6894
Photo of Angellico Samuels, MSW, BSW, RSW, CYW, Registered Social Worker
Angellico Samuels
Registered Social Worker, MSW, BSW, RSW, CYW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Woodbridge, ON L4H  (Online Only)
As your therapist, my goal is to create an authentic connection where you and I can make a space where healing and change can happen. I have provided therapeutic counselling for over 10 years with racial identity. I am passionate about supporting family and individual, by using a trauma-focused, and culturally sensitive approach. I am experienced in Dialectical Behaviour, and cognitive behaviour while understanding your multicultural needs. I often utilize Narrative and Strength-Based approaches to assist clients to tell their stories and use Emotionally Focus to connect with their feelings. I recognize you are unique
As your therapist, my goal is to create an authentic connection where you and I can make a space where healing and change can happen. I have provided therapeutic counselling for over 10 years with racial identity. I am passionate about supporting family and individual, by using a trauma-focused, and culturally sensitive approach. I am experienced in Dialectical Behaviour, and cognitive behaviour while understanding your multicultural needs. I often utilize Narrative and Strength-Based approaches to assist clients to tell their stories and use Emotionally Focus to connect with their feelings. I recognize you are unique
(289) 272-8874 View (289) 272-8874
Photo of Nick Taglione - 2SLGBTQ+ and Chronic Illness - Nick Taglione, BA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
2SLGBTQ+ and Chronic Illness - Nick Taglione
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Woodbridge, ON L4H
Hello! My name is Nick, and I am a therapy intern. When you book a session with me, you can expect an environment where safety and empathy are my top priorities. With a variety of lived experiences, I hope to better serve the populations which I encounter in daily practice. Some of my specialty areas include chronic illness, 2SLGBTQ+, and men's issues. In addition to this, I utilize an integrative approach when it comes to therapeutic techniques and therapies. My philosophy is that every client is unique, so their treatment plans should be as well.
Hello! My name is Nick, and I am a therapy intern. When you book a session with me, you can expect an environment where safety and empathy are my top priorities. With a variety of lived experiences, I hope to better serve the populations which I encounter in daily practice. Some of my specialty areas include chronic illness, 2SLGBTQ+, and men's issues. In addition to this, I utilize an integrative approach when it comes to therapeutic techniques and therapies. My philosophy is that every client is unique, so their treatment plans should be as well.
(289) 367-5406 View (289) 367-5406
Photo of Anahita Jakibchuk, CRPO, RP, CCPA, ROAT, MA, Registered Psychotherapist
Anahita Jakibchuk
Registered Psychotherapist, CRPO, RP, CCPA, ROAT, MA
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, ON L4H
I am a registered psychotherapist and also a registered art psychotherapist. I am located in Vaughan, ON and offer therapy who have mental health challenges like anxiety and depression. I believe that my clients have their individual and unique needs, and each person should be treated based on their specific challenges. I offer therapy sessions in a safe, confidential and non-judgemental space and I love seeing them feel better and leaving my room with good coping skills and ideas that can help them improve their mental health challenges.
I am a registered psychotherapist and also a registered art psychotherapist. I am located in Vaughan, ON and offer therapy who have mental health challenges like anxiety and depression. I believe that my clients have their individual and unique needs, and each person should be treated based on their specific challenges. I offer therapy sessions in a safe, confidential and non-judgemental space and I love seeing them feel better and leaving my room with good coping skills and ideas that can help them improve their mental health challenges.
(289) 271-1765 View (289) 271-1765
Photo of Edna Bonsu - Registered Nurse Psychotherapist, BScN, MN, CPMHNc
Edna Bonsu - Registered Nurse Psychotherapist
RN, BScN, MN, CPMHNc
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Woodbridge, ON L4L  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Welcome! I'm Edna, an experienced RN dedicated to transforming lives through psychotherapy. If you're ready to embrace a life of lasting well-being, you've found your next partner. With 8 years of clinical expertise, I specialize in evidence-based, client-centered therapy that seamlessly integrates the vital connection between your physical and mental health. Let's embark on a progressive journey of holistic healing & unparalleled personal growth starting today.
Welcome! I'm Edna, an experienced RN dedicated to transforming lives through psychotherapy. If you're ready to embrace a life of lasting well-being, you've found your next partner. With 8 years of clinical expertise, I specialize in evidence-based, client-centered therapy that seamlessly integrates the vital connection between your physical and mental health. Let's embark on a progressive journey of holistic healing & unparalleled personal growth starting today.
(289) 513-3550 View (289) 513-3550

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Maria Pasquariello - Gentlewaves Counseling and Psychotherapy , RN, CPMHN, CNP(Q)
Gentlewaves Counseling and Psychotherapy
RN, CPMHN, CNP(Q)
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L4L
Don't let the changing seasons bring you down- Let's equip you with the right tools to navigate life's ups and downs this fall. If you're living with bipolar disorder, depression, or anxiety now is the time to sharpen your coping strategies. Maybe you are a senior facing feelings of isolation and depression? Together we can discover a life filled with joy and purpose. With nearly 30 years in healthcare, I bring a deep understanding of both the human experience and mental health disorders. As a nurse psychotherapist-qualifying, I'm here to support you with compassion and expertise. Facing your challenges, one gentle wave at a time.
Don't let the changing seasons bring you down- Let's equip you with the right tools to navigate life's ups and downs this fall. If you're living with bipolar disorder, depression, or anxiety now is the time to sharpen your coping strategies. Maybe you are a senior facing feelings of isolation and depression? Together we can discover a life filled with joy and purpose. With nearly 30 years in healthcare, I bring a deep understanding of both the human experience and mental health disorders. As a nurse psychotherapist-qualifying, I'm here to support you with compassion and expertise. Facing your challenges, one gentle wave at a time.
(365) 601-6920 View (365) 601-6920
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
Vaughan, ON L4H
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

See more therapy options for Woodbridge

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.