Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Arizona

Photo of Ryan T Porter - Guardian Youth & Family Counseling, LPC, CADC, LCPC, Counselor
Guardian Youth & Family Counseling
Counselor, LPC, CADC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85296
My name is Ryan Porter, and I am an Arizona LPC and an Illinois LCPC (Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor) therapist who has been serving clients for over 24 years. I have worked with families, children, DCFS and foster care, adolescents, couples and adults with varying diagnoses and issues (i.e. major depression, bipolar disorder, self-mutilation, ADHD, trauma/post-traumatic stress disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, personality disorders, and chemical abuse and dependency).
My name is Ryan Porter, and I am an Arizona LPC and an Illinois LCPC (Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor) therapist who has been serving clients for over 24 years. I have worked with families, children, DCFS and foster care, adolescents, couples and adults with varying diagnoses and issues (i.e. major depression, bipolar disorder, self-mutilation, ADHD, trauma/post-traumatic stress disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, personality disorders, and chemical abuse and dependency).
(847) 892-1398 View (847) 892-1398
Photo of Darlene Rayet Corrales, MA, LSAT, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Darlene Rayet Corrales
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LSAT
Verified Verified
Chandler, AZ 85226
I am a bilingual mental health and addiction therapist with over 16 years of experience in the field. As a proud Hispanic woman, I bring a unique cultural perspective and a commitment to compassionate care. I am pursuing a doctorate to enhance my ability to provide the best services. My experience includes working with children aged 4 to 17 with Autism, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, and Conduct Disorder. As well as adults with Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Anger, Grief, Loss and Domestic Violence.
I am a bilingual mental health and addiction therapist with over 16 years of experience in the field. As a proud Hispanic woman, I bring a unique cultural perspective and a commitment to compassionate care. I am pursuing a doctorate to enhance my ability to provide the best services. My experience includes working with children aged 4 to 17 with Autism, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, and Conduct Disorder. As well as adults with Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Anger, Grief, Loss and Domestic Violence.
(480) 712-5909 View (480) 712-5909
Photo of Tiffany Williams-Jones, MSW, LCSW, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tiffany Williams-Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85296
Jones specializes in the following: Academic/Learning Problems, Adjustment Issues, Anxiety Disorder, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Childhood Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Marital and Relationship problems, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Parenting/Coaching, Social Emotional Problems and EMDR Therapy.
Dr. Williams-Jones received her Masters degree in Social Work, and her Doctorate in Educational Psychology. Her practice is based on the belief that patients' needs are of the utmost importance. Dr. Williams-Jones offers comprehensive evaluation and therapy services for children, teens, adults and families. She works with couples and families to help restore and/or create relationships after a psychological crisis. Dr. Williams-Jones treats children who struggle with social emotional, and learning difficulties. She also works with individuals who are experiencing life changes and need guidance.
Jones specializes in the following: Academic/Learning Problems, Adjustment Issues, Anxiety Disorder, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Childhood Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Marital and Relationship problems, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Parenting/Coaching, Social Emotional Problems and EMDR Therapy.
Dr. Williams-Jones received her Masters degree in Social Work, and her Doctorate in Educational Psychology. Her practice is based on the belief that patients' needs are of the utmost importance. Dr. Williams-Jones offers comprehensive evaluation and therapy services for children, teens, adults and families. She works with couples and families to help restore and/or create relationships after a psychological crisis. Dr. Williams-Jones treats children who struggle with social emotional, and learning difficulties. She also works with individuals who are experiencing life changes and need guidance.
(480) 605-1491 View (480) 605-1491
Photo of Lisa Johnson, LAC, MSc, Counselor
Lisa Johnson
Counselor, LAC, MSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
I have specialized experience in working with Bipolar Disorder.
Are you looking for a nonjudgmental, safe space to learn skills to feel better? Clients that seek me out are often looking for support in managing intense emotions like anxiety, depression, and mania. They often feel powerless over their feelings. For children and teens, sometimes this is observed through behaviors like isolation, acting out, or self-harming. Many times they wish there was a magic pill that could just solve all their problems so they could not feel like they are simply surviving. As we work together we will improve coping skills, connect with meaning and purpose, manage distress and create a more fulfilling life.
I have specialized experience in working with Bipolar Disorder.
Are you looking for a nonjudgmental, safe space to learn skills to feel better? Clients that seek me out are often looking for support in managing intense emotions like anxiety, depression, and mania. They often feel powerless over their feelings. For children and teens, sometimes this is observed through behaviors like isolation, acting out, or self-harming. Many times they wish there was a magic pill that could just solve all their problems so they could not feel like they are simply surviving. As we work together we will improve coping skills, connect with meaning and purpose, manage distress and create a more fulfilling life.
(480) 508-8475 View (480) 508-8475
Photo of Adam Lovallo - Adam Lovallo Counseling , MC, LPC, Counselor
Adam Lovallo Counseling
Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85742  (Online Only)
I specialize in individual counseling, with experience working on the following issues: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, sleep disorders, low self-esteem, relationships, grief, LGBTQ, adoption, substance abuse and video game addiction.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Arizona with over 26 years of clinical experience. My goal is to help you successfully take on the many psychological and emotional challenges in your life, by providing you with a convenient virtual safe space to privately learn effective coping tools from the convenience of your phone or computer! So let's move you from a place of simply existing and tolerating your life to living life to its fullest by contacting me now! I look forward to hearing from you and being a part of your therapeutic journey!
I specialize in individual counseling, with experience working on the following issues: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, sleep disorders, low self-esteem, relationships, grief, LGBTQ, adoption, substance abuse and video game addiction.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Arizona with over 26 years of clinical experience. My goal is to help you successfully take on the many psychological and emotional challenges in your life, by providing you with a convenient virtual safe space to privately learn effective coping tools from the convenience of your phone or computer! So let's move you from a place of simply existing and tolerating your life to living life to its fullest by contacting me now! I look forward to hearing from you and being a part of your therapeutic journey!
(520) 224-1007 View (520) 224-1007
Photo of David Hunter, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
David Hunter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85204  (Online Only)
I also work with those with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and Bipolar disorder.
Hi I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Associate Substance Counselor in the state of Arizona. I have been practicing for 15 years I help those struggling with substance abuse issues including gambling addiction.
I also work with those with anxiety, depression, ADHD, and Bipolar disorder.
Hi I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Associate Substance Counselor in the state of Arizona. I have been practicing for 15 years I help those struggling with substance abuse issues including gambling addiction.
(928) 404-0415 View (928) 404-0415
Photo of Breecole Valdez, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Breecole Valdez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85295  (Online Only)
I specialize in mood disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, BPD, trauma, eating disorders, and substance use.
Hi, I'm Breecole! If you're feeling overwhelmed by life's ups and downs, you're not alone. Whether you need to spill the tea on what's been weighing you down, discuss relationship issues, or find support through life’s challenges, I'm here for you. I provide a warm, non-judgmental, and holistic approach to therapy with a down-to-earth vibe. Your comfort and safety are my top priorities. Understanding the difficulty of mental health battles on a personal level, I offer a unique empathic perspective and want to support you in navigating life's obstacles and helping you create insightful "ah-ha" moments on your path to recovery.
I specialize in mood disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, BPD, trauma, eating disorders, and substance use.
Hi, I'm Breecole! If you're feeling overwhelmed by life's ups and downs, you're not alone. Whether you need to spill the tea on what's been weighing you down, discuss relationship issues, or find support through life’s challenges, I'm here for you. I provide a warm, non-judgmental, and holistic approach to therapy with a down-to-earth vibe. Your comfort and safety are my top priorities. Understanding the difficulty of mental health battles on a personal level, I offer a unique empathic perspective and want to support you in navigating life's obstacles and helping you create insightful "ah-ha" moments on your path to recovery.
(602) 730-0082 View (602) 730-0082
Arcadia Psychology
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85028  (Online Only)
My ideal client is someone who needs a little help in making some lasting changes in their life. I am passionate about helping people change. I enjoy working with people college aged and above. I help people with relationship issues, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and medical conditions. I have also helped women with infertility issues, menopause, and difficult pregnancies.
My ideal client is someone who needs a little help in making some lasting changes in their life. I am passionate about helping people change. I enjoy working with people college aged and above. I help people with relationship issues, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and medical conditions. I have also helped women with infertility issues, menopause, and difficult pregnancies.
(602) 755-6682 View (602) 755-6682
Photo of Heather Lucas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Lucas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained to help with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, ADHD, Autism, Borderline Personality Disorder, Substance use and Recovery, and more.
Hi! I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 plus years of experience. I take an eclectic approach to therapy looking at the unique needs of each person. As a therapist and a person living in this world, I believe that there is always a chance at a silver lining to every challenge that we face. I feel that everyone is worthy of a happy and healthy life. I am here if you are unsure of what you may be going through and know that not every person fits in a box, sometimes we may just need a little guidance. I am always looking to expand my skills as a therapist and will do the work to find the best interventions for you.
I am trained to help with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, ADHD, Autism, Borderline Personality Disorder, Substance use and Recovery, and more.
Hi! I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 plus years of experience. I take an eclectic approach to therapy looking at the unique needs of each person. As a therapist and a person living in this world, I believe that there is always a chance at a silver lining to every challenge that we face. I feel that everyone is worthy of a happy and healthy life. I am here if you are unsure of what you may be going through and know that not every person fits in a box, sometimes we may just need a little guidance. I am always looking to expand my skills as a therapist and will do the work to find the best interventions for you.
(480) 360-4862 View (480) 360-4862
Jessica Simpson
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85206
I am a graduate of GCU with a bachelor's in Psychology with an emphasis in marriage family therapy. I have worked in the mental health field since 2015. I have worked with SMI individuals who have struggled with Schizophrenia, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, and PTSD and children ages 0-10 with behavioral concerns. providing parenting support. I enjoy utilizing techniques from CBT, DBT and Trauma focused therapies and include teaching my clients self-compassion. Although my passion is is trauma, I am willing to learn more therapeutic techniques and explore different cultures to help my clients reach their goals.
I am a graduate of GCU with a bachelor's in Psychology with an emphasis in marriage family therapy. I have worked in the mental health field since 2015. I have worked with SMI individuals who have struggled with Schizophrenia, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, and PTSD and children ages 0-10 with behavioral concerns. providing parenting support. I enjoy utilizing techniques from CBT, DBT and Trauma focused therapies and include teaching my clients self-compassion. Although my passion is is trauma, I am willing to learn more therapeutic techniques and explore different cultures to help my clients reach their goals.
(480) 571-9212 View (480) 571-9212
Photo of Bianca Aguilar @ Entune Behavioral Health, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bianca Aguilar @ Entune Behavioral Health
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85715
Whether you're struggling with bipolar disorder, trauma, substance use, or identity issues, I offer a safe, non-judgmental space for healing.
My name is Bianca and I am an LPC and the Site Director at Entune's Tanque Verde office. My ideal client is someone seeking genuine healing and growth. They might struggle with trauma, substance use, or mood disorders like bipolar disorder. They're courageous individuals, perhaps veterans or first responders, who've faced intense challenges. They yearn for relief from their pain, a sense of control, and the ability to live authentically. They want to understand themselves better, navigate life's complexities, and cultivate resilience. Their goal is not just survival, but to thrive, reclaiming joy and purpose.
Whether you're struggling with bipolar disorder, trauma, substance use, or identity issues, I offer a safe, non-judgmental space for healing.
My name is Bianca and I am an LPC and the Site Director at Entune's Tanque Verde office. My ideal client is someone seeking genuine healing and growth. They might struggle with trauma, substance use, or mood disorders like bipolar disorder. They're courageous individuals, perhaps veterans or first responders, who've faced intense challenges. They yearn for relief from their pain, a sense of control, and the ability to live authentically. They want to understand themselves better, navigate life's complexities, and cultivate resilience. Their goal is not just survival, but to thrive, reclaiming joy and purpose.
(520) 412-2835 View (520) 412-2835
Photo of Paula Mistovich, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paula Mistovich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Peoria, AZ 85345  (Online Only)
I work with grief, including traumatic grief, emotional issues including depression, anxiety, ADHD and bipolar diagnoses.
I believe the strengths and tools you developed in the past can help you with the difficulties in your present life, be they day to day challenges or pain that has been there for a long time. I have a saying that 'there is nothing we can't get through together,' and with me by your side, I hope you can face and overcome the challenges in front of you. I have learned that developing a trusting relationship in the first thing that needs to happen in 'good therapy.'
I work with grief, including traumatic grief, emotional issues including depression, anxiety, ADHD and bipolar diagnoses.
I believe the strengths and tools you developed in the past can help you with the difficulties in your present life, be they day to day challenges or pain that has been there for a long time. I have a saying that 'there is nothing we can't get through together,' and with me by your side, I hope you can face and overcome the challenges in front of you. I have learned that developing a trusting relationship in the first thing that needs to happen in 'good therapy.'
(928) 770-2244 View (928) 770-2244
Photo of Eddie Lee Blakes Jr., MSAC, LISAC, BHP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Eddie Lee Blakes Jr.
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MSAC, LISAC, BHP
Verified Verified
Chandler, AZ 85246
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, LGBTQIA+ issues, anger, grief, loss, loneliness, addictions, trauma, discrimination, or a lack of motivation? You're not alone. I'm here to introduce you to an incredibly compassionate and experienced therapist who is ready to support you on your journey towards healing and growth. With immediate openings for new patients, this therapist is committed to providing a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. As an independently licensed therapist, they have the expertise to help you navigate your challenges.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, LGBTQIA+ issues, anger, grief, loss, loneliness, addictions, trauma, discrimination, or a lack of motivation? You're not alone. I'm here to introduce you to an incredibly compassionate and experienced therapist who is ready to support you on your journey towards healing and growth. With immediate openings for new patients, this therapist is committed to providing a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. As an independently licensed therapist, they have the expertise to help you navigate your challenges.
(520) 412-2381 View (520) 412-2381
Photo of Kristen Radke, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristen Radke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85258  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients / Teletherapy or equine assisted psychotherapy / EAGALA (weather permitting). I primarily treat anxiety, depression, bipolar, relational and/or marital issues, and life transitions. I also provide Christian/biblical therapy upon request. Working with me you'll learn to be more present, feel less anxious, communicate your feelings and thoughts, process through past hurts, set healthy boundaries, and learn to move forward. Let me help you bring a more balanced perspective to your life.
Accepting new clients / Teletherapy or equine assisted psychotherapy / EAGALA (weather permitting). I primarily treat anxiety, depression, bipolar, relational and/or marital issues, and life transitions. I also provide Christian/biblical therapy upon request. Working with me you'll learn to be more present, feel less anxious, communicate your feelings and thoughts, process through past hurts, set healthy boundaries, and learn to move forward. Let me help you bring a more balanced perspective to your life.
(480) 630-4187 View (480) 630-4187
Photo of Shelly Reed, PsyD, Psychologist
Shelly Reed
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85202
Whether you are well versed with therapy and are ready to dive in again or you are cautiously considering therapy for the first time, my team at Freedom Psychological Center and I are committed to helping you identify and remove the obstacles of trauma, depression, anxiety, addiction, bipolar disorder, sleep disorders, difficult transitions, relationship issues, insecurity, problematic sexual behaviors, and self-injurious behavior out of your way so you can get back to your life or maybe even feel alive for the first time.
Whether you are well versed with therapy and are ready to dive in again or you are cautiously considering therapy for the first time, my team at Freedom Psychological Center and I are committed to helping you identify and remove the obstacles of trauma, depression, anxiety, addiction, bipolar disorder, sleep disorders, difficult transitions, relationship issues, insecurity, problematic sexual behaviors, and self-injurious behavior out of your way so you can get back to your life or maybe even feel alive for the first time.
(480) 719-2643 View (480) 719-2643
Photo of Christina Katen, PsyD, Psychologist
Christina Katen
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Peoria, AZ 85383
As a Clinical Child Psychologist, I have worked with children Birth to 25 years of age for over 19 years. In treatment I focus on the use of Play Therapy, CBT, and Solution-Focused Therapy. My specialties including working with clients who experience Reactive Attachment Disorder, ASD, Developmental Delays, Mood Disorders including Bipolar Disorder, Learning Disabilities, Trauma, and ADHD. I work with children and adolescents individually as well as within their family system to help increase their functionality across daily settings. Length of Treatment is based on child and family's needs and client's developmental level.
As a Clinical Child Psychologist, I have worked with children Birth to 25 years of age for over 19 years. In treatment I focus on the use of Play Therapy, CBT, and Solution-Focused Therapy. My specialties including working with clients who experience Reactive Attachment Disorder, ASD, Developmental Delays, Mood Disorders including Bipolar Disorder, Learning Disabilities, Trauma, and ADHD. I work with children and adolescents individually as well as within their family system to help increase their functionality across daily settings. Length of Treatment is based on child and family's needs and client's developmental level.
(623) 335-0202 View (623) 335-0202
Photo of Kathleen Cramer, PhD, Psychologist
Kathleen Cramer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85210  (Online Only)
Therapy is used to address stress, depression, bipolar disorder, relationship issues, etc.
Just as you visit physicians for preventive care, you can meet with a psychologist to address issues before they become problematic. This proactive approach encourages the development of psychological health. People are in good psychological health when they make good decisions, manage stress well, communicate effectively, have healthy relationships, and take good care of themselves emotionally and physically. Let me work with you to establish and maintain your optimal psychological health. We can do that through the use of therapy and/or psychological testing, as I specialize in both forms of treatment.
Therapy is used to address stress, depression, bipolar disorder, relationship issues, etc.
Just as you visit physicians for preventive care, you can meet with a psychologist to address issues before they become problematic. This proactive approach encourages the development of psychological health. People are in good psychological health when they make good decisions, manage stress well, communicate effectively, have healthy relationships, and take good care of themselves emotionally and physically. Let me work with you to establish and maintain your optimal psychological health. We can do that through the use of therapy and/or psychological testing, as I specialize in both forms of treatment.
(480) 405-0585 View (480) 405-0585
Photo of Nicole Wagner, MS, LAC, NCC, Counselor
Nicole Wagner
Counselor, MS, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85206
I have worked with individuals with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, substance abuse disorders, chronic health issues, grief and loss, trauma, and relationship problems.
—Currently Accepting New Clients!—Weekend Availability—. Hi. My name is Nicole Wagner and I’m a Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC). I’m nationally certified and utilize person-centered therapy with an integrated approach that includes, but is not limited to CBT, DBT, ACT, trauma-informed therapy, and psychodynamic therapy. I’m a certified trauma specialist and am trained in EMDR therapy. I received my Master's degree from South Dakota State University in Counseling and Human Resource Development with a specialization in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.
I have worked with individuals with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, substance abuse disorders, chronic health issues, grief and loss, trauma, and relationship problems.
—Currently Accepting New Clients!—Weekend Availability—. Hi. My name is Nicole Wagner and I’m a Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC). I’m nationally certified and utilize person-centered therapy with an integrated approach that includes, but is not limited to CBT, DBT, ACT, trauma-informed therapy, and psychodynamic therapy. I’m a certified trauma specialist and am trained in EMDR therapy. I received my Master's degree from South Dakota State University in Counseling and Human Resource Development with a specialization in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.
(480) 573-7491 View (480) 573-7491
Photo of Travis Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor
Travis Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Goodyear, AZ 85338  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona, with a Masters degree in clinical mental health counseling. I have eight years of experience working with adults addressing various concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar, substance use, and PTSD. I employ cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavioral skills.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona, with a Masters degree in clinical mental health counseling. I have eight years of experience working with adults addressing various concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar, substance use, and PTSD. I employ cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavioral skills.
(866) 738-3081 View (866) 738-3081
Photo of Joshua Reish, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joshua Reish
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lakeside, AZ 85929  (Online Only)
From my overall training and experience, I now work with clients who struggle with anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, drug and alcohol issues, adjustment disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, marriage and family communication issues and conflict, and grief and loss.
I am committed to helping clients to work through life's challenges and offer an empathetic, collaborative relationship to my clients. I completed my bachelor of science in microbiology from California State University, Long Beach and later my master of arts in marriage and family therapy from Hope International University. I have worked with a variety of populations, including community mental health outpatient for adults, children, and families, residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation for adults, and field-based mental health for children and teenagers with trauma.
From my overall training and experience, I now work with clients who struggle with anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, drug and alcohol issues, adjustment disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, marriage and family communication issues and conflict, and grief and loss.
I am committed to helping clients to work through life's challenges and offer an empathetic, collaborative relationship to my clients. I completed my bachelor of science in microbiology from California State University, Long Beach and later my master of arts in marriage and family therapy from Hope International University. I have worked with a variety of populations, including community mental health outpatient for adults, children, and families, residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation for adults, and field-based mental health for children and teenagers with trauma.
(928) 492-7154 View (928) 492-7154
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Bipolar Disorder Therapists

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.