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 Kristine Mill, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristine Mill
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85044
My specialities of focus are individual session with children 9 years or older/teens/adults with anxiety, depression, bipolar, mood disorder, PTSD, OCD.
I have been in practice since 1997. I am Licensed Professional Counselor as well as an Advanced Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Certified Clinician (CBT-C) & Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP) to address anxiety and depression. I believe it is the relationship with the patient and therapist which are significant to build trust and in turn facilitate change. It is important to have a treatment plan to set goals to learn healthy coping skills to address negative thought patterns. The recent years have brought such change in how we work, attend school, have relationships, and work through adversity. Therapy is key.
My specialities of focus are individual session with children 9 years or older/teens/adults with anxiety, depression, bipolar, mood disorder, PTSD, OCD.
I have been in practice since 1997. I am Licensed Professional Counselor as well as an Advanced Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Certified Clinician (CBT-C) & Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP) to address anxiety and depression. I believe it is the relationship with the patient and therapist which are significant to build trust and in turn facilitate change. It is important to have a treatment plan to set goals to learn healthy coping skills to address negative thought patterns. The recent years have brought such change in how we work, attend school, have relationships, and work through adversity. Therapy is key.
(480) 322-3197 View (480) 322-3197
Photo of Ify Willson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ify Willson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85022
As a licensed clinical social worker/therapist, I have worked in the mental health field for over 13 years in various levels of care. My experience includes inpatient behavioral health as well as crisis counseling and outpatient programs. I work with clients experiencing Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, relationship issues and trauma. My training and experience ranges in various evidence based modalities. Book with me now by clicking on my website
As a licensed clinical social worker/therapist, I have worked in the mental health field for over 13 years in various levels of care. My experience includes inpatient behavioral health as well as crisis counseling and outpatient programs. I work with clients experiencing Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, relationship issues and trauma. My training and experience ranges in various evidence based modalities. Book with me now by clicking on my website
(623) 246-7250 View (623) 246-7250
Photo of Maryam Goudarzi, LMFT, Neuro, Marriage & Family Therapist
Maryam Goudarzi
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, Neuro
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85206
I have specialty working with individuals, couples and families to address issues such as ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Burnout, Cultural Issues/Racial Trauma, Depression, Family Conflict, Family Therapy, Immigration, LGBTQ+, Life Transitions, OCD, Panic, Phobias, Self-Harm, Sexual Trauma, Sleep, Stress, Trans+, Trauma, and Women's Issues.
With over a decade of clinical experience, I've delved into Clinical Psychology with extensive training in neuropsychology. As a proud member of the American Psychological Association (APA), I bring a diverse skill set with various modalities. My work spans individuals, couples, and families, cultivating strong therapeutic relationships. By attentively listening and understanding, I tailor approaches to meet clients' needs, helping them identify and achieve their goals. Through multiple interventions, clients gain awareness, recognizing thought, emotional, and behavioral patterns. Empowering clients to explore new ways of thinking..
I have specialty working with individuals, couples and families to address issues such as ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Burnout, Cultural Issues/Racial Trauma, Depression, Family Conflict, Family Therapy, Immigration, LGBTQ+, Life Transitions, OCD, Panic, Phobias, Self-Harm, Sexual Trauma, Sleep, Stress, Trans+, Trauma, and Women's Issues.
With over a decade of clinical experience, I've delved into Clinical Psychology with extensive training in neuropsychology. As a proud member of the American Psychological Association (APA), I bring a diverse skill set with various modalities. My work spans individuals, couples, and families, cultivating strong therapeutic relationships. By attentively listening and understanding, I tailor approaches to meet clients' needs, helping them identify and achieve their goals. Through multiple interventions, clients gain awareness, recognizing thought, emotional, and behavioral patterns. Empowering clients to explore new ways of thinking..
(480) 788-7254 View (480) 788-7254
Photo of Ify Willson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ify Willson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85022
I work with clients experiencing Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, relationship issues and trauma.
I work with clients experiencing Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, relationship issues and trauma.
I work with clients experiencing Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, relationship issues and trauma.
I work with clients experiencing Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, relationship issues and trauma.
(623) 280-1478 View (623) 280-1478
Photo of Glendine Soiseth, MA, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Glendine Soiseth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
I have practiced in the United States and Great Britain with children, teens, and adults struggling with symptoms from past and present trauma, issues with childhood neglect and abuse, crisis, depression, anxiety, self-harm, substance abuse, bipolar, sexual abuse including acculturation issues.
NEW Patient slots NOW available. Are you noticing that your current coping behaviors when sad, anxious, angry or feeling overwhelmed are no longer working at home/work or in your relationships? Are they causing more problems? You are not alone. If you are ready for the next step, I am here to help you break this pattern. I specialize in trauma, abuse, neglect, grief/loss, abandonment, and issues self-medicating. I have over 19 years clinical experience working with kids, teens, adults and families in the recovery and healing process. My style is to address issues with clarity and compassion.
I have practiced in the United States and Great Britain with children, teens, and adults struggling with symptoms from past and present trauma, issues with childhood neglect and abuse, crisis, depression, anxiety, self-harm, substance abuse, bipolar, sexual abuse including acculturation issues.
NEW Patient slots NOW available. Are you noticing that your current coping behaviors when sad, anxious, angry or feeling overwhelmed are no longer working at home/work or in your relationships? Are they causing more problems? You are not alone. If you are ready for the next step, I am here to help you break this pattern. I specialize in trauma, abuse, neglect, grief/loss, abandonment, and issues self-medicating. I have over 19 years clinical experience working with kids, teens, adults and families in the recovery and healing process. My style is to address issues with clarity and compassion.
(480) 210-1686 View (480) 210-1686
Photo of Lori Mockler, LPC , CTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lori Mockler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC , CTP
Verified Verified
Peoria, AZ 85382  (Online Only)
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I provide a compassionate and supportive environment where clients can explore their personal challenges and develop practical strategies for growth. I provide multiple modalities to my clients to help them overcome their challenges and make lasting changes. I have experience working with clients who struggle with depression, anxiety, mood dysregulation, motivation, self-esteem, and trauma. I also work with personality disorders such as bipolar and borderline. If you want to be better at managing your symptoms lets discuss how we can start towards the path of self-awareness and personal growth.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I provide a compassionate and supportive environment where clients can explore their personal challenges and develop practical strategies for growth. I provide multiple modalities to my clients to help them overcome their challenges and make lasting changes. I have experience working with clients who struggle with depression, anxiety, mood dysregulation, motivation, self-esteem, and trauma. I also work with personality disorders such as bipolar and borderline. If you want to be better at managing your symptoms lets discuss how we can start towards the path of self-awareness and personal growth.
(928) 460-7940 View (928) 460-7940
Photo of Amanda Reed, PhD, PLLC, Psychologist
Amanda Reed
Psychologist, PhD, PLLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who provides services to children, adolescents, adults, and families. I specialize in the treatment of mood issues (depression, bipolar disorder), anxiety, behavioral or academic problems, social skills deficits, trauma/grief issues, incontinence issues (enuresis and encopresis), and relationship difficulties. In addition, I work with children and families experiencing separation or divorce and other major life stressors, and I provide parenting skills training.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who provides services to children, adolescents, adults, and families. I specialize in the treatment of mood issues (depression, bipolar disorder), anxiety, behavioral or academic problems, social skills deficits, trauma/grief issues, incontinence issues (enuresis and encopresis), and relationship difficulties. In addition, I work with children and families experiencing separation or divorce and other major life stressors, and I provide parenting skills training.
(480) 845-0381 View (480) 845-0381
Photo of Mark Treegoob, PhD, Psychologist
Mark Treegoob
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Glendale, AZ 85308
I also have specialized in ADHD, adult and children; Bipolar Disorder; Asperger's Disorder; Depression; Anger Management; and Stress Management.
I work with children 13 or over through adolescence, and adults of all ages.
I also have specialized in ADHD, adult and children; Bipolar Disorder; Asperger's Disorder; Depression; Anger Management; and Stress Management.
I work with children 13 or over through adolescence, and adults of all ages.
(480) 409-2321 View (480) 409-2321
Photo of Roxanne Dalpos, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Roxanne Dalpos
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Chandler, AZ 85224
I am a licensed psychotherpist in AZ and nationally certified. I am trained in various techniques that help with the resolution of trauma, abuse, neglect, addiction, and personality corrections. In addition, I can provide testing for behavioral, emotional, personality, and psychological concerns. As the clinical director, I coordinate and oversee our groups and IOP (intensive outpatient) programs. My team includes Spanish speaking services and the ability to work with those who have other concerns such as anxiey, bipolar, depression, ADHD, and emotional dysregulation as part of individual, group, IOP counseling.
I am a licensed psychotherpist in AZ and nationally certified. I am trained in various techniques that help with the resolution of trauma, abuse, neglect, addiction, and personality corrections. In addition, I can provide testing for behavioral, emotional, personality, and psychological concerns. As the clinical director, I coordinate and oversee our groups and IOP (intensive outpatient) programs. My team includes Spanish speaking services and the ability to work with those who have other concerns such as anxiey, bipolar, depression, ADHD, and emotional dysregulation as part of individual, group, IOP counseling.
(480) 382-1929 View (480) 382-1929
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 Melissa Pavlik, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Pavlik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and earned my Master’s degree in Social Work from Arizona State University in 2018. I have experience working with diverse populations and all age ranges from children as young as 7, to adolescents, to adults, and older adults. My background includes therapy with individuals, couples, families, and groups who have been challenged with depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, bipolar disorder, psychosis, substance use, grief and loss, mood disorders and personality disorders.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and earned my Master’s degree in Social Work from Arizona State University in 2018. I have experience working with diverse populations and all age ranges from children as young as 7, to adolescents, to adults, and older adults. My background includes therapy with individuals, couples, families, and groups who have been challenged with depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, bipolar disorder, psychosis, substance use, grief and loss, mood disorders and personality disorders.
(480) 906-3891 x721 View (480) 906-3891 x721
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 Carol Dickinson - Emdr And Trauma Specialist, MS, LPC, CCTS-I, CRP, Counselor
Carol Dickinson - Emdr And Trauma Specialist
Counselor, MS, LPC, CCTS-I, CRP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buckeye, AZ 85396
We may also use Dialectical Behavior Therapy and other interventions for PTSD, OCD, addiction, anxiety, personality disorders, bipolar disorders, grief, self-harm, and dissociation.
What constitutes a traumatic event is a very personal experience. Often it isn’t until you are in therapy that you discover the full implications and impact on the quality of your life. The footprint of trauma can show itself as difficulty at work, unhealthy relationship patterns, anxiety, depression, or a lack of sleep. It can also be the total and complete interruption of your life. What you may think is anxiety or depression could be early trauma or developmental trauma. It can also be complex trauma created after multiple events and experiences. It is never what's wrong with you but what's happened to you!
We may also use Dialectical Behavior Therapy and other interventions for PTSD, OCD, addiction, anxiety, personality disorders, bipolar disorders, grief, self-harm, and dissociation.
What constitutes a traumatic event is a very personal experience. Often it isn’t until you are in therapy that you discover the full implications and impact on the quality of your life. The footprint of trauma can show itself as difficulty at work, unhealthy relationship patterns, anxiety, depression, or a lack of sleep. It can also be the total and complete interruption of your life. What you may think is anxiety or depression could be early trauma or developmental trauma. It can also be complex trauma created after multiple events and experiences. It is never what's wrong with you but what's happened to you!
(623) 257-5198 View (623) 257-5198
Photo of Jen Ohlund, NARM, ART, CBT-I, TMH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jen Ohlund
Licensed Professional Counselor, NARM, ART, CBT-I, TMH
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85295
In addition, I enjoy working with mood disorders such as anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder.
I bring a wealth of life experience in addition to my clinical training as it supports my natural passion to be an advocate of healing for those who face difficult life challenges. I facilitate healing and growth through creating a safe, nurturing environment to explore and facilitate healthy perceptions of self and relationships. I have experience working with teens and adults with an injured self-image. With eight unique children of my own, I enjoy working with parenting challenges, family dynamics and relationships of all kinds.
In addition, I enjoy working with mood disorders such as anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder.
I bring a wealth of life experience in addition to my clinical training as it supports my natural passion to be an advocate of healing for those who face difficult life challenges. I facilitate healing and growth through creating a safe, nurturing environment to explore and facilitate healthy perceptions of self and relationships. I have experience working with teens and adults with an injured self-image. With eight unique children of my own, I enjoy working with parenting challenges, family dynamics and relationships of all kinds.
(480) 530-8306 View (480) 530-8306
Photo of Cam Williams - Khalil Life Services, LLC, MSW, MBA, CHW, PRSS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Khalil Life Services, LLC
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, MBA, CHW, PRSS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85204
I have an understanding of the unique experiences, cultural differences, and challenges members of the minority group face on a daily. My career began in 2007 after developing a passion for mental health and mental development in the community. With over 15 years of experience in the mental health field; I have worked with individuals dealing with various concerns such as racial trauma, identity exploration, discrimination, depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, substance dependence, bipolar disorder, self esteem and relationship issues. I believe therapy has a way of helping individuals transform their life and regain purpose.
I have an understanding of the unique experiences, cultural differences, and challenges members of the minority group face on a daily. My career began in 2007 after developing a passion for mental health and mental development in the community. With over 15 years of experience in the mental health field; I have worked with individuals dealing with various concerns such as racial trauma, identity exploration, discrimination, depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, substance dependence, bipolar disorder, self esteem and relationship issues. I believe therapy has a way of helping individuals transform their life and regain purpose.
(928) 493-1465 View (928) 493-1465
Photo of Jennifer Szabo, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Szabo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85298  (Online Only)
I am also trained in perinatal mood & anxiety disorders, OCD and comfortable working with Bipolar & Borderline.
Feeling consumed by intrusive, unwanted thoughts that interrupt your daily living? Are you wanting to regain power over your thoughts and life? I understand how difficult it may seem to begin the healing process. But, you do not need to do it alone. When you meet with me you will be welcomed into a nonjudgmental space that will allow you to explore the possible source of your current challenges and ways you can enhance your well-being. I do not believe therapy has to be a painful experience, it can be a healing and rewarding journey. I can walk along side you as you begin to regain control of your life.
I am also trained in perinatal mood & anxiety disorders, OCD and comfortable working with Bipolar & Borderline.
Feeling consumed by intrusive, unwanted thoughts that interrupt your daily living? Are you wanting to regain power over your thoughts and life? I understand how difficult it may seem to begin the healing process. But, you do not need to do it alone. When you meet with me you will be welcomed into a nonjudgmental space that will allow you to explore the possible source of your current challenges and ways you can enhance your well-being. I do not believe therapy has to be a painful experience, it can be a healing and rewarding journey. I can walk along side you as you begin to regain control of your life.
(480) 878-7894 View (480) 878-7894
Photo of Christopher Trotman, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christopher Trotman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85004  (Online Only)
My experience, including living with sickle cell anemia, allows me to specialize in chronic illness, pain, emotional regulation, depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar disorder and other related issues.
Hey there! If you're here, you may be starting (or continuing) a journey of self-discovery. As a dedicated licensed master social worker, I'm honored to assist you. I know reaching out for help can be difficult sometimes. If you’re willing to take that intimidating first step, I promise you- I will do my best in helping make it as easy and enjoyable for you as I possibly can. I aim to create a healing space, where we'll laugh together, you may cry, and you'll feel ready to overcome challenges. Shoot me an email and we'll schedule a free 15 min consultation! Now accepting clients in AZ only
My experience, including living with sickle cell anemia, allows me to specialize in chronic illness, pain, emotional regulation, depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar disorder and other related issues.
Hey there! If you're here, you may be starting (or continuing) a journey of self-discovery. As a dedicated licensed master social worker, I'm honored to assist you. I know reaching out for help can be difficult sometimes. If you’re willing to take that intimidating first step, I promise you- I will do my best in helping make it as easy and enjoyable for you as I possibly can. I aim to create a healing space, where we'll laugh together, you may cry, and you'll feel ready to overcome challenges. Shoot me an email and we'll schedule a free 15 min consultation! Now accepting clients in AZ only
(602) 598-5911 View (602) 598-5911
Photo of Layla Noland - Meliora Counseling & Wellness , MS , LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Meliora Counseling & Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS , LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85051
We treat Child/Adolescent Behavioral Concerns, Self-harm behaviors, ADHD,Depression, Anxiety, Trauma/PTS, Personality Disorders, Bipolar Disorder Perinatal Depression, Eating Disorders, Self esteem issues, Gender identity and Body Dysmorphia
We treat Child/Adolescent Behavioral Concerns, Self-harm behaviors, ADHD,Depression, Anxiety, Trauma/PTS, Personality Disorders, Bipolar Disorder Perinatal Depression, Eating Disorders, Self esteem issues, Gender identity and Body Dysmorphia
(623) 343-2390 View (623) 343-2390
Photo of Jeff Krehl, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jeff Krehl
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Chandler, AZ 85225
I also work with individual issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, addictions, teenage issues, and family problems.
I provide a safe, comfortable and laid back environment for therapy. While you won't find any cascading waterfalls or healing rocks in my office, you will find a calm place to do the hard work of change. I will work with you in an effort to get you in an out of therapy as quickly as possible. Your first couple sessions will involve us getting familiar with each other, working together to complete a comprehensive assessment, and beginning to develop the goals for your treatment. From there, our work together will be driven by you and guided by me.
I also work with individual issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, addictions, teenage issues, and family problems.
I provide a safe, comfortable and laid back environment for therapy. While you won't find any cascading waterfalls or healing rocks in my office, you will find a calm place to do the hard work of change. I will work with you in an effort to get you in an out of therapy as quickly as possible. Your first couple sessions will involve us getting familiar with each other, working together to complete a comprehensive assessment, and beginning to develop the goals for your treatment. From there, our work together will be driven by you and guided by me.
(480) 568-5130 View (480) 568-5130
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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.