Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Kirkland, QC
My aim is to guide my clients towards understanding and acceptance of (being with) their emotional experience so that they feel complete, free and more connected to others. Engaging in therapy with me involves warmth and empathy, which allows my clients to freely express, and understand, their experience. I validate the experience of my clients so that they genuinely begin feel well with who they are. I use empirically supported treatments that treat difficult emotions such as sadness, anger, and fear (Emotion Focused Therapy) or problematic thinking patterns related to anxiety/depression (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy).
My aim is to guide my clients towards understanding and acceptance of (being with) their emotional experience so that they feel complete, free and more connected to others. Engaging in therapy with me involves warmth and empathy, which allows my clients to freely express, and understand, their experience. I validate the experience of my clients so that they genuinely begin feel well with who they are. I use empirically supported treatments that treat difficult emotions such as sadness, anger, and fear (Emotion Focused Therapy) or problematic thinking patterns related to anxiety/depression (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy).
I have worked in the therapeutic field for upward of 15 years. I offer (licensed) psychotherapy to adults and adolescents. My practice is based on acceptance and kindness. I hold a strong belief that there is no room for judgment. I will work with you to create a therapeutic journey that feeds your personal curiosity, builds upon the strengths you already have and teaches you new techniques for coping with stress and sadness. You will learn to identify your goals, what frustrations you face, what changes you wish to make and how to implement those changes in a safe and honest environment.
I have worked in the therapeutic field for upward of 15 years. I offer (licensed) psychotherapy to adults and adolescents. My practice is based on acceptance and kindness. I hold a strong belief that there is no room for judgment. I will work with you to create a therapeutic journey that feeds your personal curiosity, builds upon the strengths you already have and teaches you new techniques for coping with stress and sadness. You will learn to identify your goals, what frustrations you face, what changes you wish to make and how to implement those changes in a safe and honest environment.
Therapists can help individuals, families, and children to understand and help resolve problems of all kinds. We are faced with many challenges. Some are familiar and we have managed to deal with them effectively. At other times the unknown arrives and we need to speak to someone to be able to understand our options and to move on with confidence. At the end we feel more at ease and stronger with the confidence that we did not realize we have. That is where we know that we have made a good decision to consult someone with knowledge about our situation and relating to someone who has the life experience to help us effectively.
Therapists can help individuals, families, and children to understand and help resolve problems of all kinds. We are faced with many challenges. Some are familiar and we have managed to deal with them effectively. At other times the unknown arrives and we need to speak to someone to be able to understand our options and to move on with confidence. At the end we feel more at ease and stronger with the confidence that we did not realize we have. That is where we know that we have made a good decision to consult someone with knowledge about our situation and relating to someone who has the life experience to help us effectively.
I want you to know you're taking right step. We haven't met yet but seeking out a qualified professional is the key to overcoming how you're feeling. Perhaps you are feeling depressed, isolated, worried, overwhelmed, exhausted or are in chronic pain. Maybe you are experiencing physical changes such as insomnia, fatigue, frequent headaches and back pain. Your behaving in ways that you think are affecting your loved ones. You often feel like a failure and experience guilt. Your thoughts run away with you and often go to dark places. You do not need to live this way anymore. You can feel better.
I want you to know you're taking right step. We haven't met yet but seeking out a qualified professional is the key to overcoming how you're feeling. Perhaps you are feeling depressed, isolated, worried, overwhelmed, exhausted or are in chronic pain. Maybe you are experiencing physical changes such as insomnia, fatigue, frequent headaches and back pain. Your behaving in ways that you think are affecting your loved ones. You often feel like a failure and experience guilt. Your thoughts run away with you and often go to dark places. You do not need to live this way anymore. You can feel better.
More Therapists Nearby
After 20 years of practice, I am driven now more than ever to help individuals and couples achieve meaningful and courageous changes in their lives. Whether what ails you stems from symptoms of OCD, sexual addiction, depression, anxiety, relationship or other life challenges, I will take the time to listen to you with empathy and curiosity but without judgement. Our sessions will seek to enpower you to clearly articulate and implement the tangible changes you wish to effect in your life. I am well versed in cognitive behavioural therapies, mindfulness and brief solution-focused and intercultural therapies.
After 20 years of practice, I am driven now more than ever to help individuals and couples achieve meaningful and courageous changes in their lives. Whether what ails you stems from symptoms of OCD, sexual addiction, depression, anxiety, relationship or other life challenges, I will take the time to listen to you with empathy and curiosity but without judgement. Our sessions will seek to enpower you to clearly articulate and implement the tangible changes you wish to effect in your life. I am well versed in cognitive behavioural therapies, mindfulness and brief solution-focused and intercultural therapies.
Benjamin F Armstrong
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Montréal, QC H8Y (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Change starts with the relationship that we form in the therapy and then continues by building useful skills in and outside of our sessions. In practice this means that I fit best with clients who are interested in (1) understanding more about their thoughts and emotions while also (2) taking clear steps to improve their mental and physical well-being. My job as the therapist is to provide a warm and caring environment to support the client in this process.
Change starts with the relationship that we form in the therapy and then continues by building useful skills in and outside of our sessions. In practice this means that I fit best with clients who are interested in (1) understanding more about their thoughts and emotions while also (2) taking clear steps to improve their mental and physical well-being. My job as the therapist is to provide a warm and caring environment to support the client in this process.
A type of therapy beyond speech ... Whether it is to express emotions, regain power over your life or find tools for personal growth, which differentiates drama therapy from other forms of "psycho-therapy which are generally focused on speech "is that in dramatherapy, in addition to using words, we also use expressive tools that can pass through the whole body: projective techniques, bodily movements, breathing and mindfulness exercises, creation of rituals, creation of stories, improvisations, theory and method of roles, etc. The exploration process become therapeutic in itself.
A type of therapy beyond speech ... Whether it is to express emotions, regain power over your life or find tools for personal growth, which differentiates drama therapy from other forms of "psycho-therapy which are generally focused on speech "is that in dramatherapy, in addition to using words, we also use expressive tools that can pass through the whole body: projective techniques, bodily movements, breathing and mindfulness exercises, creation of rituals, creation of stories, improvisations, theory and method of roles, etc. The exploration process become therapeutic in itself.
Ian Zikman Psychologist
Psychologist, MEd, MA, OPQ, Quebec, Ontario
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pointe-Claire, QC H9R
Sometimes we find ourselves feeling overwhelmed, afraid, desperate, or alone. Maybe your relationships are spiraling or you never feel good enough. Perhaps you are unfulfilled at work or procrastination is sabotaging you. Your distress from anxiety, depression, or grief may have reached a new level and you can’t cope. I’m a therapist, but I’m human too, I’ve been there. Everybody needs a helping hand sometimes. I’m ready to be that person for you! I’ll help you get back on track. With 15+ years of experience and expertise in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), I’m dedicated to helping clients lead healthier, more productive lives.
Sometimes we find ourselves feeling overwhelmed, afraid, desperate, or alone. Maybe your relationships are spiraling or you never feel good enough. Perhaps you are unfulfilled at work or procrastination is sabotaging you. Your distress from anxiety, depression, or grief may have reached a new level and you can’t cope. I’m a therapist, but I’m human too, I’ve been there. Everybody needs a helping hand sometimes. I’m ready to be that person for you! I’ll help you get back on track. With 15+ years of experience and expertise in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), I’m dedicated to helping clients lead healthier, more productive lives.
Are you disappointed with the turn your life has taken? Do you find yourself overwhelmed by feelings of worry, sadness, loneliness, or anger? Do you find it hard to enjoy what you have today, but feel stuck in the past, or keep worrying about the future? Do you struggle to communicate your feelings effectively to others? When we don't learn to successfully deal with our thoughts and emotions, when past wounds are left unattended, they intensify, and get expressed in unproductive, angry, or hurtful ways towards yourself and the people you love.
Are you disappointed with the turn your life has taken? Do you find yourself overwhelmed by feelings of worry, sadness, loneliness, or anger? Do you find it hard to enjoy what you have today, but feel stuck in the past, or keep worrying about the future? Do you struggle to communicate your feelings effectively to others? When we don't learn to successfully deal with our thoughts and emotions, when past wounds are left unattended, they intensify, and get expressed in unproductive, angry, or hurtful ways towards yourself and the people you love.
As the Director of Resolutions Therapy Center, I bring a wealth of experience, having dedicated twenty-eight years to supporting couples, individuals, adolescents, and children. Our team provides a comprehensive range of psychological services, including assessments, consultations, psychotherapy, treatment programs, and coaching. At the heart of our center's focus, our services address marital conflict, depression, anxiety, burnout, bereavement, adoption, infertility, and sexual identity. Our goal is to empower individuals by recognizing their strengths and guiding them beyond negative beliefs to foster positive development.
As the Director of Resolutions Therapy Center, I bring a wealth of experience, having dedicated twenty-eight years to supporting couples, individuals, adolescents, and children. Our team provides a comprehensive range of psychological services, including assessments, consultations, psychotherapy, treatment programs, and coaching. At the heart of our center's focus, our services address marital conflict, depression, anxiety, burnout, bereavement, adoption, infertility, and sexual identity. Our goal is to empower individuals by recognizing their strengths and guiding them beyond negative beliefs to foster positive development.
Are you grappling with uncertainty, struggling to make sense of things, or feeling stuck in your relationships, career, or life in general? Whether you are feeling down, hopeless, anxious, or stuck and overwhelmed, you aren't alone! I am focused on meeting you where you are in your therapy journey. By understanding your strengths, challenges, and unique perspective, we collaboratively create a flexible plan that evolves as we progress. Together, we'll navigate through your past experiences, creating growth and developing new ways of relating to yourself and others. I'm ready to embark on this journey of self-discovery with you.
Are you grappling with uncertainty, struggling to make sense of things, or feeling stuck in your relationships, career, or life in general? Whether you are feeling down, hopeless, anxious, or stuck and overwhelmed, you aren't alone! I am focused on meeting you where you are in your therapy journey. By understanding your strengths, challenges, and unique perspective, we collaboratively create a flexible plan that evolves as we progress. Together, we'll navigate through your past experiences, creating growth and developing new ways of relating to yourself and others. I'm ready to embark on this journey of self-discovery with you.
Jodie Thompson
Registered Psychotherapist, SCC, PSW/TS, TCF, CMFT, MSc
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Vaudreuil-Dorion, QC J7V
Are you struggling, with depression or anxiety and are looking for some answers? Understanding your conscious and unconscious patterns that can result in feelings of being stuck is one of my specialities. My professional interests have taken the form of interpersonal understanding, as well as identity and fertility issues. I have supported individuals/couples and families through challenges that include relational issues, depression, anxiety disorders, mood disorders; as well as through crises triggered by traumatic events. We have expanded to a group practice working with youth, addults, couples and families.
Are you struggling, with depression or anxiety and are looking for some answers? Understanding your conscious and unconscious patterns that can result in feelings of being stuck is one of my specialities. My professional interests have taken the form of interpersonal understanding, as well as identity and fertility issues. I have supported individuals/couples and families through challenges that include relational issues, depression, anxiety disorders, mood disorders; as well as through crises triggered by traumatic events. We have expanded to a group practice working with youth, addults, couples and families.
Are you struggling with anxiety? Constant worrying that makes it difficult to make decisions? Or suffering from unpredictable panic attacks that have led you to avoid people, places or particular situations? I have been helping people for over 18 years manage more effectively their anxiety, with proven evidence based strategies. I have worked with individuals of all ages and backgrounds to help them overcome anxiety, panic, phobias and PTSD. It can be difficult to address situations that you have been avoiding. Cognitive behavioral strategies can help you get back to your life.
Are you struggling with anxiety? Constant worrying that makes it difficult to make decisions? Or suffering from unpredictable panic attacks that have led you to avoid people, places or particular situations? I have been helping people for over 18 years manage more effectively their anxiety, with proven evidence based strategies. I have worked with individuals of all ages and backgrounds to help them overcome anxiety, panic, phobias and PTSD. It can be difficult to address situations that you have been avoiding. Cognitive behavioral strategies can help you get back to your life.
Dr. Lyane Trepanier
Psychologist, PhD, MSc, OPQ
Verified Verified
Pointe-Claire, QC H9R
Waitlist for new clients
Warm welcome. Are you navigating tough emotions like sadness & anxiety, dealing with a difficult relationship, or trying to move past unresolved traumas? That is truly no way to live. I believe you deserve a life filled with more joy and less burden, and you don't have to find it alone. In my practice, I use evidence-based tools to help you transform your life actively. If you want to be accompanied as you take steps towards feeling better, and are willing to put what we talked about into practice, then we'll make a good team. Let’s start this healing journey together and unlock the joy you deserve!
Warm welcome. Are you navigating tough emotions like sadness & anxiety, dealing with a difficult relationship, or trying to move past unresolved traumas? That is truly no way to live. I believe you deserve a life filled with more joy and less burden, and you don't have to find it alone. In my practice, I use evidence-based tools to help you transform your life actively. If you want to be accompanied as you take steps towards feeling better, and are willing to put what we talked about into practice, then we'll make a good team. Let’s start this healing journey together and unlock the joy you deserve!
If you're reading this, you have probably been feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or hopeless. You may be afraid that there is no way out of the dark hole of anxiety, depression, trauma, or grief. Perhaps you are sick of low self-esteem or procrastination sabotaging your life. Or you might be feeling totally alone and lost in your relationship, academic or workplace problems. You may be questioning if you are capable of change or ever feeling better. The answer is YES and I can help! With 15 years of experience, I am dedicated to helping clients lead healthier, more meaningful and productive lives.
If you're reading this, you have probably been feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or hopeless. You may be afraid that there is no way out of the dark hole of anxiety, depression, trauma, or grief. Perhaps you are sick of low self-esteem or procrastination sabotaging your life. Or you might be feeling totally alone and lost in your relationship, academic or workplace problems. You may be questioning if you are capable of change or ever feeling better. The answer is YES and I can help! With 15 years of experience, I am dedicated to helping clients lead healthier, more meaningful and productive lives.
Everyone at some point in their lives will experience events that lead to troubling thoughts, feelings and even pain. Whether it’s having relationship problems, going through large life changes, a stressful work environment or not letting your past go, it may simply be too much to make sense of it all. Know that you’re not alone and that the first step in helping yourself is recognizing your problems and seeking help. If you are at that point, I can help you. I offer you a safe space where you can share, explore and revisit difficult moments in your life so that you can finally tackle your problems head on.
Everyone at some point in their lives will experience events that lead to troubling thoughts, feelings and even pain. Whether it’s having relationship problems, going through large life changes, a stressful work environment or not letting your past go, it may simply be too much to make sense of it all. Know that you’re not alone and that the first step in helping yourself is recognizing your problems and seeking help. If you are at that point, I can help you. I offer you a safe space where you can share, explore and revisit difficult moments in your life so that you can finally tackle your problems head on.
Over the years as a helping professional I realized that people care less about clever language and elaborate techniques and more about receiving sincere love and compassion, living hope and courage, honest feedback, and new perspectives. What proved to help is having the mutual trust to explore and work on intimate, sometimes painful topics, step-by-step. Together, we invite your strengths and natural wisdom to take the steering wheel of your life, letting go of the grasp of your fears and limiting self-beliefs. Together, we also help you chose and create new habits towards a better ways of being.
Over the years as a helping professional I realized that people care less about clever language and elaborate techniques and more about receiving sincere love and compassion, living hope and courage, honest feedback, and new perspectives. What proved to help is having the mutual trust to explore and work on intimate, sometimes painful topics, step-by-step. Together, we invite your strengths and natural wisdom to take the steering wheel of your life, letting go of the grasp of your fears and limiting self-beliefs. Together, we also help you chose and create new habits towards a better ways of being.
I am a social worker and a registered psychotherapist who has supported individuals and families in crisis, dealing with end of life issues, grief and bereavement, including from traumatic loss, as well as with those who struggle from the impact of mental health issues, terminal illness and loss of autonomy. From a holistic perspective and using a humanistic approach, I aim to engage your strengths and motivation to enable change and uncover resilience.
I am a social worker and a registered psychotherapist who has supported individuals and families in crisis, dealing with end of life issues, grief and bereavement, including from traumatic loss, as well as with those who struggle from the impact of mental health issues, terminal illness and loss of autonomy. From a holistic perspective and using a humanistic approach, I aim to engage your strengths and motivation to enable change and uncover resilience.
Howard Gontovnick Psychotherapist
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MA, PhD, OPQ
Verified Verified
Laval, QC H7W
Whether you are an individual or part of a couple. my therapeutic relationship emphasizes a high-quality interpersonal connection grounded in honesty, genuineness and compassion. Each session is primarily concerned with your capacity to endure, cope and discover that which can help you thrive in whatever challenging life situation that is at the forefront of your world. Together we will uncover what is known as well as the unknown sources of your discontentment. More importantly, we need to seek out realistic solutions that are attainable and helpful. Perhaps now is the right time to begin and take a bold step forward for yourself
Whether you are an individual or part of a couple. my therapeutic relationship emphasizes a high-quality interpersonal connection grounded in honesty, genuineness and compassion. Each session is primarily concerned with your capacity to endure, cope and discover that which can help you thrive in whatever challenging life situation that is at the forefront of your world. Together we will uncover what is known as well as the unknown sources of your discontentment. More importantly, we need to seek out realistic solutions that are attainable and helpful. Perhaps now is the right time to begin and take a bold step forward for yourself
Clinique de Psychologie Zikman et Associés
Psychologist, MA, MEd, OPQ, QUEBEC, ONTARIO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dorval, QC H9R
Avec plus de 15 ans d'expérience en thérapie cognitivo-comportementale (TCC), nous sommes dévoués à aider nos clients à mener une vie plus saine. Nous travaillerons avec vous pour atténuer la détresse causée par des problèmes personnels, sociaux ou professionnels. Nous sommes compétents dans le traitement de l'anxiété, de la dépression, du deuil, de la procrastination, des relations, de l'estime de soi, ainsi que de l'adaptation aux études et au travail. Nous sommes également sensibles aux besoins uniques de la communauté LGBTQIA+. Nous avons soigneusement sélectionné nos thérapeutes pour leurs connaissances et leur chaleur.
Avec plus de 15 ans d'expérience en thérapie cognitivo-comportementale (TCC), nous sommes dévoués à aider nos clients à mener une vie plus saine. Nous travaillerons avec vous pour atténuer la détresse causée par des problèmes personnels, sociaux ou professionnels. Nous sommes compétents dans le traitement de l'anxiété, de la dépression, du deuil, de la procrastination, des relations, de l'estime de soi, ainsi que de l'adaptation aux études et au travail. Nous sommes également sensibles aux besoins uniques de la communauté LGBTQIA+. Nous avons soigneusement sélectionné nos thérapeutes pour leurs connaissances et leur chaleur.
Pasqualina Di Dio
Psychologist, Pasqualina Di Dio, PhD
Verified Verified
Pointe-Claire, QC H9R (Online Only)
The basis of any good psychotherapy relationship is the connection with someone you believe understands you. I strive to provide an empathic, nonjudgmental environment for that connection and trust to develop. I am an active therapist that works in a collaborative, flexible, and transparent way to help you make the changes you so desire and live your life more fully. I have been practicing for 20 years and my speciality is helping people face the challenges that come with a chronic health issue or life-threatening illness, as well as depressive and anxiety disorders, trauma and grief.
The basis of any good psychotherapy relationship is the connection with someone you believe understands you. I strive to provide an empathic, nonjudgmental environment for that connection and trust to develop. I am an active therapist that works in a collaborative, flexible, and transparent way to help you make the changes you so desire and live your life more fully. I have been practicing for 20 years and my speciality is helping people face the challenges that come with a chronic health issue or life-threatening illness, as well as depressive and anxiety disorders, trauma and grief.
Dr. Iram Ahmad is a registered clinical psychologist and a member of l'Ordre des psychologues du Québec. She has been working in the area of mental health for almost 20 years. Currently, her work focuses on human relationships and resiliency with a particular emphasis on work-related stress, anxiety disorders, and work-life balance. She provides psychotherapy in English and French.
Dr. Iram Ahmad is a registered clinical psychologist and a member of l'Ordre des psychologues du Québec. She has been working in the area of mental health for almost 20 years. Currently, her work focuses on human relationships and resiliency with a particular emphasis on work-related stress, anxiety disorders, and work-life balance. She provides psychotherapy in English and French.
Michael Benibgui
Psychologist, PhD, OPQ
Verified Verified
Beaconsfield, QC H9W (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
My approach to therapy is evidence-based, interactive, relational, & motivational. As I believe that the relationship between the therapist and client is what is most healing & helpful in therapy, I strive to create a comfortable & supportive atmosphere where difficult issues can be addressed. When people feel supported & understood; they are often more able to face challenges. I also help clients become more aware of the obstacles which prevent them from leading more satisfying lives & improving their relationships. Sometimes that may involve exploring past experiences and/or it may involve learning new concrete coping skills
My approach to therapy is evidence-based, interactive, relational, & motivational. As I believe that the relationship between the therapist and client is what is most healing & helpful in therapy, I strive to create a comfortable & supportive atmosphere where difficult issues can be addressed. When people feel supported & understood; they are often more able to face challenges. I also help clients become more aware of the obstacles which prevent them from leading more satisfying lives & improving their relationships. Sometimes that may involve exploring past experiences and/or it may involve learning new concrete coping skills
Kylie Goldman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BA, MSW
Verified Verified
Dollard-des-Ormeaux, QC H9G (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Kylie. I'm a registered social worker and in the process of obtaining my psychotherapy permit through the Quebec Order or Psychologists. I have over 10 years of experience providing support to children, adults, couples and families. My experience includes working in both the public health sector and in private practice. I have gained expertise by working with a diverse clientele and various mental health conditions including anxiety and depression as well as neurodevelopmental disorders.
Hello, I'm Kylie. I'm a registered social worker and in the process of obtaining my psychotherapy permit through the Quebec Order or Psychologists. I have over 10 years of experience providing support to children, adults, couples and families. My experience includes working in both the public health sector and in private practice. I have gained expertise by working with a diverse clientele and various mental health conditions including anxiety and depression as well as neurodevelopmental disorders.
Daniela Maltauro
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MBA, (Couns, Psych), co
Verified Verified
Pointe-Claire, QC H9S
If you are on this site, chances are that life's challenges have made you feel like you have no way out. Perhaps you are feeling anxious, depressed, or overwhelmed by situations at home or at work. Change begins with understanding and support. You have already begun your journey by searching this site and I encourage you take the next step. Together we can help you feel more hopeful and fulfilled. Please take a look at my website at www.danielamaltauro.com (or click on the Visit my Homepage link above) to learn more about me and my approach.
If you are on this site, chances are that life's challenges have made you feel like you have no way out. Perhaps you are feeling anxious, depressed, or overwhelmed by situations at home or at work. Change begins with understanding and support. You have already begun your journey by searching this site and I encourage you take the next step. Together we can help you feel more hopeful and fulfilled. Please take a look at my website at www.danielamaltauro.com (or click on the Visit my Homepage link above) to learn more about me and my approach.
See more therapy options for Kirkland
Nearby Bipolar Disorder Counsellors Searches for Kirkland
- Beaconsfield
- Brossard
- Côte Saint-Luc
- Dollard-des-Ormeaux
- Laval
- Longueuil
- Montréal
- Pointe-Claire
- Saint-Laurent
- Vaudreuil-Dorion
- Verdun
- Westmount
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.