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 Tiffany Williams-Jones, MSW, LCSW, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tiffany Williams-Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85207
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 Rebecca Fregoso, MS, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Rebecca Fregoso
Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85206
Over the years, I've developed specialized skills to work with diverse populations, various backgrounds, and individuals dealing with depression, dissociative disorders, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, BPD, self-esteem issues, relationship challenges, and complex trauma.
Have you ever found yourself in need of someone to talk to, only to feel like there's no one you can turn to? Perhaps you've experienced the frustration of opening up and being vulnerable, only to receive a blank stare or have the conversation unintentionally redirected to the other person's experiences. At Inner Balance, YOU are our primary and central focus. I value the courage it takes to be vulnerable and provide a secure space for you to explore your past, present, and future. I'm here to offer the support and validation you need to evolve into the person you aspire to be.
Over the years, I've developed specialized skills to work with diverse populations, various backgrounds, and individuals dealing with depression, dissociative disorders, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, BPD, self-esteem issues, relationship challenges, and complex trauma.
Have you ever found yourself in need of someone to talk to, only to feel like there's no one you can turn to? Perhaps you've experienced the frustration of opening up and being vulnerable, only to receive a blank stare or have the conversation unintentionally redirected to the other person's experiences. At Inner Balance, YOU are our primary and central focus. I value the courage it takes to be vulnerable and provide a secure space for you to explore your past, present, and future. I'm here to offer the support and validation you need to evolve into the person you aspire to be.
(480) 452-1022 x1 View (480) 452-1022 x1
Photo of Kuo-Yi Chung, PhD, Psychologist
Kuo-Yi Chung
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85210
Not accepting new clients
I am a licensed psychologist in the state of Arizona. I conduct psychological assessments and provide treatments to adolescents, adults, couples and families on issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, loss and grief, trauma and abuse, life span transitions, relational problems, acculturation, as well as other psychological, spiritual, and existential issues. My style is empathic and I emphasize collaborative relationships with clients. I hope to help my clients build on their strengths to cope with life challenges. I am bilingual in Mandarin Chinese and English and have worked with people from a broad array of backgrounds.
I am a licensed psychologist in the state of Arizona. I conduct psychological assessments and provide treatments to adolescents, adults, couples and families on issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, loss and grief, trauma and abuse, life span transitions, relational problems, acculturation, as well as other psychological, spiritual, and existential issues. My style is empathic and I emphasize collaborative relationships with clients. I hope to help my clients build on their strengths to cope with life challenges. I am bilingual in Mandarin Chinese and English and have worked with people from a broad array of backgrounds.
(480) 646-3296 x1204 View (480) 646-3296 x1204
Photo of Janelle Steenbergen, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janelle Steenbergen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85206
Accepting New Clients. Evening Availability. Welcome! I provide compassionate and effective therapy to teens (13+) and adults who have symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, self-harming, self-esteem issues, life transitions, grief, ADHD, anger, addiction, bipolar, along with other challenges. My diverse background includes working with juveniles in the probation system, as well as serving as a social worker in high schools, provided support to teens in the foster care system, crisis intervention, and supported staff and student population. I used DBT, CBT, Talk-Therapy and in training for EMDR.
Accepting New Clients. Evening Availability. Welcome! I provide compassionate and effective therapy to teens (13+) and adults who have symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, self-harming, self-esteem issues, life transitions, grief, ADHD, anger, addiction, bipolar, along with other challenges. My diverse background includes working with juveniles in the probation system, as well as serving as a social worker in high schools, provided support to teens in the foster care system, crisis intervention, and supported staff and student population. I used DBT, CBT, Talk-Therapy and in training for EMDR.
(480) 482-1838 View (480) 482-1838
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 Christie Gerken-Lopez, LCPC, Counselor
Christie Gerken-Lopez
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85206  (Online Only)
I am here to support you or you and your spouse/family in treating your symptoms of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, life transitions, anger, ADHD, history of or current trauma/abuse, relationship/family relational issues, and parenting struggles.
It seems you are ready to take the next step if you have made it this far in your search. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor here to help you and/or your loved ones process your issues, make a change, or simply help you decide what you need. I provide counseling to people of all ages and backgrounds. I have experience in a variety of settings from private practice to emergency room services, so I am here to help with whatever needs you may have. I strongly believe that we all have different starting points and my job is to meet you wherever that is and start your journey there.
I am here to support you or you and your spouse/family in treating your symptoms of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, life transitions, anger, ADHD, history of or current trauma/abuse, relationship/family relational issues, and parenting struggles.
It seems you are ready to take the next step if you have made it this far in your search. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor here to help you and/or your loved ones process your issues, make a change, or simply help you decide what you need. I provide counseling to people of all ages and backgrounds. I have experience in a variety of settings from private practice to emergency room services, so I am here to help with whatever needs you may have. I strongly believe that we all have different starting points and my job is to meet you wherever that is and start your journey there.
(773) 839-3545 View (773) 839-3545
Mary Oakley
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, CC-AASP
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85201
I am a Licensed Psychologist who works with individuals, couples, and families. My therapy clients range from ages 4 to 80 and I see a variety of treatment issues including, but not limited to, behavior problems, ADHD, learning disability, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, relationship concerns, and life adjustment. My philosophy is that the therapy session belongs to the client, and everyone's needs are different. Therefore, I tailor my approach to each individual client. I aim to provide emotional support as well as teach tactics and strategies to help my clients reach beyond their comfort zone to accomplish their goals.
I am a Licensed Psychologist who works with individuals, couples, and families. My therapy clients range from ages 4 to 80 and I see a variety of treatment issues including, but not limited to, behavior problems, ADHD, learning disability, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, relationship concerns, and life adjustment. My philosophy is that the therapy session belongs to the client, and everyone's needs are different. Therefore, I tailor my approach to each individual client. I aim to provide emotional support as well as teach tactics and strategies to help my clients reach beyond their comfort zone to accomplish their goals.
(480) 800-4459 View (480) 800-4459
Photo of Jill Slocum, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jill Slocum
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85203  (Online Only)
Finding the right fit can always be challenging. I look for helpful solutions to difficult problems. My clients look for someone who will tell them what is going on in their life and how to change and how it can benefit their life. I focus on the solution by delving into the problem, sometimes it may be difficult but that is why I am here to explain why it could be of the most benefit to you. Primarily, my goal is to help you find the best solution to your difficulties.
Finding the right fit can always be challenging. I look for helpful solutions to difficult problems. My clients look for someone who will tell them what is going on in their life and how to change and how it can benefit their life. I focus on the solution by delving into the problem, sometimes it may be difficult but that is why I am here to explain why it could be of the most benefit to you. Primarily, my goal is to help you find the best solution to your difficulties.
(480) 386-1438 View (480) 386-1438
Photo of Trasi Freeman, MPsych, MC, CSC, CCTS-I, Coach, Pre-Licensed Professional
Trasi Freeman
Pre-Licensed Professional, MPsych, MC, CSC, CCTS-I, Coach
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85204
No one can fix you because you are not broken! Unhealthy choices and patterns steming from learned behaviors can make us feel stuck. We decide how we will respond or react to life's circumstances. I believe in heroes/heroines because I look at her in the mirror daily. Like most, I've been victimized, but I've never been a victim. I chose and continue to choose not to Be.
No one can fix you because you are not broken! Unhealthy choices and patterns steming from learned behaviors can make us feel stuck. We decide how we will respond or react to life's circumstances. I believe in heroes/heroines because I look at her in the mirror daily. Like most, I've been victimized, but I've never been a victim. I chose and continue to choose not to Be.
(520) 582-9982 View (520) 582-9982
Photo of Kiersten Wells, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kiersten Wells
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85210
Waitlist for new clients
The stories we tell ourselves about ourselves hold enormous power. You may be feeling stuck, disconnected or hopeless due to stressful life changes, family conflict, unhealthy coping patterns or things that have happened in your past. Learning to find the power of your inner voice and take control of your life story can create new ways of viewing yourself and the world. This can restore peace within your mind, body and relationships with others.
The stories we tell ourselves about ourselves hold enormous power. You may be feeling stuck, disconnected or hopeless due to stressful life changes, family conflict, unhealthy coping patterns or things that have happened in your past. Learning to find the power of your inner voice and take control of your life story can create new ways of viewing yourself and the world. This can restore peace within your mind, body and relationships with others.
(480) 618-7652 View (480) 618-7652
Photo of Candace Delight Cook, MA, LPC, AMFT, Coach, Licensed Professional Counselor
Candace Delight Cook
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, AMFT, Coach
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85202
Candace Delight Cook is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Associate Marital Family Therapist (AMFT) in the state of Arizona who has 4 years of experience partnering with individuals, couples and families seeking help with depression, anxiety, life transitions, trauma, and relationship issues. Candace completed her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Azusa Pacific University and received her Master of Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University.
Candace Delight Cook is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Associate Marital Family Therapist (AMFT) in the state of Arizona who has 4 years of experience partnering with individuals, couples and families seeking help with depression, anxiety, life transitions, trauma, and relationship issues. Candace completed her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Azusa Pacific University and received her Master of Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University.
(480) 530-8341 View (480) 530-8341
Photo of Julia Cruz Spain Core Balance Counseling, MC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julia Cruz Spain Core Balance Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85209
I am committed to facilitating the path to enlightenment, guiding clients in embracing self-discovery, releasing limiting beliefs, and cultivating a deeper sense of purpose and meaning. Through a blend of introspective dialogue, reflective exercises, and experiential practices, clients are encouraged to uncover their authentic selves and connect with the profound wisdom within. Each person is a unique individual on a personal journey, and their goal is to provide a supportive space where clients can explore their inner selves, overcome challenges, and embrace the path to enlightenment.
I am committed to facilitating the path to enlightenment, guiding clients in embracing self-discovery, releasing limiting beliefs, and cultivating a deeper sense of purpose and meaning. Through a blend of introspective dialogue, reflective exercises, and experiential practices, clients are encouraged to uncover their authentic selves and connect with the profound wisdom within. Each person is a unique individual on a personal journey, and their goal is to provide a supportive space where clients can explore their inner selves, overcome challenges, and embrace the path to enlightenment.
(480) 418-9806 View (480) 418-9806
Photo of Timothy J Gartz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Timothy J Gartz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85209
Welcome! I am Timothy Gartz, MSW Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Mesa, Arizona. My greatest desire is to provide a professional environment of trust in order to explore any of your challenges or life adjustments. I am a skilled therapist with 20 years of practical experience in a variety of locations and settings including private practice, broad state health clinics in Hawaii, St. Louis, and Denver as well as internationally in Hong Kong and Shanghai. These experiences allow me to provide personalized solution focused services that are culturally competent and tailor made to help you regain confidence and achieve your goals.
Welcome! I am Timothy Gartz, MSW Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Mesa, Arizona. My greatest desire is to provide a professional environment of trust in order to explore any of your challenges or life adjustments. I am a skilled therapist with 20 years of practical experience in a variety of locations and settings including private practice, broad state health clinics in Hawaii, St. Louis, and Denver as well as internationally in Hong Kong and Shanghai. These experiences allow me to provide personalized solution focused services that are culturally competent and tailor made to help you regain confidence and achieve your goals.
(520) 376-8327 View (520) 376-8327
Photo of Chelsea Spaulding, LAMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Chelsea Spaulding
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LAMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85206
Are you struggling in your relationships with the people you love the most? Do you find yourself asking, is it me or them? Allow me to come alongside you and help navigate the hard conversations. Let’s have an honest conversation about past stuff that’s been bothering you or present issues that make it hard to connect. I utilize a combination of evidence-based therapies along with giving you better tools to have those hard conversations. Let’s figure out why history keeps repeating itself and what can be done to keep the past in the past. I am accepting new clients and have immediate openings.
Are you struggling in your relationships with the people you love the most? Do you find yourself asking, is it me or them? Allow me to come alongside you and help navigate the hard conversations. Let’s have an honest conversation about past stuff that’s been bothering you or present issues that make it hard to connect. I utilize a combination of evidence-based therapies along with giving you better tools to have those hard conversations. Let’s figure out why history keeps repeating itself and what can be done to keep the past in the past. I am accepting new clients and have immediate openings.
(928) 599-8663 View (928) 599-8663
Photo of Jessica Dawson, MC, LAC, Counselor
Jessica Dawson
Counselor, MC, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85206
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or emotional regulation? Or perhaps you're facing relationship issues, grief, trauma, or PTSD? The path towards healing can be daunting to go through alone. With constant challenges and obstacles that come along the way, it may be hard to ask for help especially when we are at our most vulnerable. Just know that you never have to go through it alone as I am here to be a fellow traveler with you on your journey towards finding inner balance and peace. My goal is to tailor your experience towards your specific needs so that I can foster a space that promotes authenticity, trust, and growth.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or emotional regulation? Or perhaps you're facing relationship issues, grief, trauma, or PTSD? The path towards healing can be daunting to go through alone. With constant challenges and obstacles that come along the way, it may be hard to ask for help especially when we are at our most vulnerable. Just know that you never have to go through it alone as I am here to be a fellow traveler with you on your journey towards finding inner balance and peace. My goal is to tailor your experience towards your specific needs so that I can foster a space that promotes authenticity, trust, and growth.
(928) 955-4984 x1 View (928) 955-4984 x1
Photo of Karen Pitico, MA  MSW, LCSW, MPH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Pitico
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA MSW, LCSW, MPH
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85213
Cognitive wellness is a critical aspect of lifestyle wellness. My experience has included venues as; crisis, in and outpatient, and elderly care. Private practice includes youth, adults, families focusing on individual, couples, partners and families. I typically use the Cognitive Behavioral approach with successful client satisfaction in one's counseling experience. How we think about the situations / problems / disappointments that come in and out of lives play a critical role how we develop healthy cognitive skills to get through our emotional and physical disappointments, struggles, grief and pain.
Cognitive wellness is a critical aspect of lifestyle wellness. My experience has included venues as; crisis, in and outpatient, and elderly care. Private practice includes youth, adults, families focusing on individual, couples, partners and families. I typically use the Cognitive Behavioral approach with successful client satisfaction in one's counseling experience. How we think about the situations / problems / disappointments that come in and out of lives play a critical role how we develop healthy cognitive skills to get through our emotional and physical disappointments, struggles, grief and pain.
(480) 405-5216 View (480) 405-5216
Photo of Scott Petersen, DBH, LMFT, LISAC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Scott Petersen
Marriage & Family Therapist, DBH, LMFT, LISAC
Verified Verified
Mesa, AZ 85204
AVAILABLE SATURDAYS. Hi, I am Dr. Scott Petersen and am the founder of Find Peace Again Counseling.com. As a Doctor of Behavioral Health, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and Licensed Independent Substance Abuse Counselor, I specialize in working with married couples on conflict resolution, communication problems, reconnecting after past transgressions, fighting over budgets, overcoming addictions, intimacy issues, individuals and couples who struggle with depression, anxiety, stress, overcoming past traumas, frustration, self worth, and career direction. No insurance, self-pay only.
AVAILABLE SATURDAYS. Hi, I am Dr. Scott Petersen and am the founder of Find Peace Again Counseling.com. As a Doctor of Behavioral Health, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and Licensed Independent Substance Abuse Counselor, I specialize in working with married couples on conflict resolution, communication problems, reconnecting after past transgressions, fighting over budgets, overcoming addictions, intimacy issues, individuals and couples who struggle with depression, anxiety, stress, overcoming past traumas, frustration, self worth, and career direction. No insurance, self-pay only.
(480) 405-5357 View (480) 405-5357
Photo of Maricela Michelle Smith, PsyD, Psychologist
Maricela Michelle Smith
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85206
Not accepting new clients
Hi, my name is Dr. Maricela Smith and I am a licensed psychologist in the State of Arizona. I specialize in working with patients diagnosed with a serious mental illness and/or part of the general mental health population. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families. My ideal patient would be someone ready to make changes in their life. Seeing personal growth and aiding in other's progress makes my job enjoyable and rewarding. I strive to help my patients through difficult times, be there as a support, help them shrug off the necessary mistakes, and celebrate their successes.
Hi, my name is Dr. Maricela Smith and I am a licensed psychologist in the State of Arizona. I specialize in working with patients diagnosed with a serious mental illness and/or part of the general mental health population. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families. My ideal patient would be someone ready to make changes in their life. Seeing personal growth and aiding in other's progress makes my job enjoyable and rewarding. I strive to help my patients through difficult times, be there as a support, help them shrug off the necessary mistakes, and celebrate their successes.
(928) 916-6197 View (928) 916-6197
Photo of Jennifer Jones, PsyD, Psychologist
Jennifer Jones
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85210
I operate a small and quaint private practice aimed at providing competent psychological services for a variety of mental health issues, symptoms, and disorders. I generally work with individuals who are experiencing issues with mood/emotional regulation, relationships, anxiety, panic, phobias, work performance, parenting, and navigating adolescence. I also have worked with individuals struggling with anger issues for many years. My availability to take new patients varies depending on our current patient load. However, I am currently only accepting new patients for evaluation.
I operate a small and quaint private practice aimed at providing competent psychological services for a variety of mental health issues, symptoms, and disorders. I generally work with individuals who are experiencing issues with mood/emotional regulation, relationships, anxiety, panic, phobias, work performance, parenting, and navigating adolescence. I also have worked with individuals struggling with anger issues for many years. My availability to take new patients varies depending on our current patient load. However, I am currently only accepting new patients for evaluation.
(602) 388-8706 View (602) 388-8706
1
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.