Photo of Lisa Johnson, LAC, MSc, Counselor
Lisa Johnson
Counselor, LAC, MSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85050
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 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 Linda M. Cantley, LISAC, MAC, MEd, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Linda M. Cantley
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LISAC, MAC, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85040
I have have accumulated over 15 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families, focusing on their mental, physical, and emotional well-being to facilitate the healing and recovery journey. With a diverse background in addressing issues such as SUD, PTSD, Conflict Resolution, Bipolar Disorder, BPD, GAD, MDD, Crisis, Trauma, and Grief/Loss, I am dedicated to supporting you in achieving a sound meaningful and fulfilling life.
I have have accumulated over 15 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families, focusing on their mental, physical, and emotional well-being to facilitate the healing and recovery journey. With a diverse background in addressing issues such as SUD, PTSD, Conflict Resolution, Bipolar Disorder, BPD, GAD, MDD, Crisis, Trauma, and Grief/Loss, I am dedicated to supporting you in achieving a sound meaningful and fulfilling life.
(480) 660-4122 View (480) 660-4122
Photo of Aynne Henry, PhD, Psychologist
Aynne Henry
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85018
I enjoy treating clients others may find trying - high conflict couples, bipolar, and medically ill.
My practice is unique. I treat two groups of clients: One is very high functioning - the highly successful professional who wants to improve personal strengths, interpersonal interactions, relationships, and intimacy. The second set are those who have been struggling with a diagnosable mental or physical illness that has not been effectively managed. Both may need various clinical treatments which include therapies such as Interpersonal Social Rhythm Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy (Couples & Family), Cognitive-Behavior Therapy (CBT) or trauma oriented skills such as Prolonged Exposure Therapy, Hypnosis, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) - Feeling-State Addiction Therapy, Relaxation & Mindfulness.
I enjoy treating clients others may find trying - high conflict couples, bipolar, and medically ill.
My practice is unique. I treat two groups of clients: One is very high functioning - the highly successful professional who wants to improve personal strengths, interpersonal interactions, relationships, and intimacy. The second set are those who have been struggling with a diagnosable mental or physical illness that has not been effectively managed. Both may need various clinical treatments which include therapies such as Interpersonal Social Rhythm Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy (Couples & Family), Cognitive-Behavior Therapy (CBT) or trauma oriented skills such as Prolonged Exposure Therapy, Hypnosis, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) - Feeling-State Addiction Therapy, Relaxation & Mindfulness.
(602) 957-2336 View (602) 957-2336
Photo of Lezlee Hays, MSc, LPC, BHP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lezlee Hays
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSc, LPC, BHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85020
I am skilled in working a range of challenges including: anxiety, depression, grief and loss, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, PTSD, Bipolar, trauma, parenting challenges, and life transitions such as divorce.
My goal is to work collaboratively with you so that you get what you need out of therapy. I believe I offer a uniquely comforting style of therapy. I am a trained trauma therapist and an EMDR practitioner with seasoned experience working in public health as well as private practice. As a trauma informed therapist I believe in a holistic approach to healing. I believe in the unique power of each individual to achieve positive change and overcome challenges. I believe the relationship you form with your counselor is extremely important to the healing process.
I am skilled in working a range of challenges including: anxiety, depression, grief and loss, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, PTSD, Bipolar, trauma, parenting challenges, and life transitions such as divorce.
My goal is to work collaboratively with you so that you get what you need out of therapy. I believe I offer a uniquely comforting style of therapy. I am a trained trauma therapist and an EMDR practitioner with seasoned experience working in public health as well as private practice. As a trauma informed therapist I believe in a holistic approach to healing. I believe in the unique power of each individual to achieve positive change and overcome challenges. I believe the relationship you form with your counselor is extremely important to the healing process.
(602) 833-4662 View (602) 833-4662
Photo of Lauren J Border, LCSW, LMSW, MSW, BSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren J Border
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW, MSW, BSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85023
I have worked with individuals with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, grief, trauma, and have directly served the perinatal population in Phoenix with training in trauma treatments and perinatal mood disorders.
Have you been feeling disconnected? Do you often shut-down emotionally, feel overwhelmed, panicked, or ashamed? Have you struggled in relationships, waiting for and expecting the other shoe to drop? Do you find yourself giving and giving, but getting little in return? Do you frequently criticize yourself or others? You are not alone, and you are not broken. You developed these patterns to help you survive pain and difficulty. In a safe and healing environment, we can learn about and shed unhealthy patterns. You can find safety in your body and connect with yourself so you can stop surviving and start living the life you deserve!
I have worked with individuals with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, grief, trauma, and have directly served the perinatal population in Phoenix with training in trauma treatments and perinatal mood disorders.
Have you been feeling disconnected? Do you often shut-down emotionally, feel overwhelmed, panicked, or ashamed? Have you struggled in relationships, waiting for and expecting the other shoe to drop? Do you find yourself giving and giving, but getting little in return? Do you frequently criticize yourself or others? You are not alone, and you are not broken. You developed these patterns to help you survive pain and difficulty. In a safe and healing environment, we can learn about and shed unhealthy patterns. You can find safety in your body and connect with yourself so you can stop surviving and start living the life you deserve!
(623) 288-0054 View (623) 288-0054
Photo of Mark Treegoob, PhD, Psychologist
Mark Treegoob
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85061
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 Jeff Krehl, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jeff Krehl
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85044
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
Photo of Lyndz Simpson-Reblin, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Lyndz Simpson-Reblin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85032
My name is Lyndz Simpson-Reblin, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have worked both in an inpatient psychiatric crisis setting to and in outpatient and private practice settings. I utilize evidenced-based practices and tools to assist my clients in obtaining the help that they need. I work with adults and children of all ages. I am EMDR and Sand Tray trained and utilize evidenced-based tools to assist my clients in having the best possible outcomes. Some of the areas that I specialize in are trauma, children and adolescents, anxiety, depression, bipolar, co-occurring disorders, and much more.
My name is Lyndz Simpson-Reblin, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have worked both in an inpatient psychiatric crisis setting to and in outpatient and private practice settings. I utilize evidenced-based practices and tools to assist my clients in obtaining the help that they need. I work with adults and children of all ages. I am EMDR and Sand Tray trained and utilize evidenced-based tools to assist my clients in having the best possible outcomes. Some of the areas that I specialize in are trauma, children and adolescents, anxiety, depression, bipolar, co-occurring disorders, and much more.
(928) 754-7592 View (928) 754-7592
Photo of Christopher Trotman, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christopher Trotman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85003  (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 both MD and AZ
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 both MD and AZ
(301) 851-0601 View (301) 851-0601
Photo of Todd Basta, MBA, LPC, BC-TMH, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Todd Basta
Licensed Professional Counselor, MBA, LPC, BC-TMH, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85037
Hello and welcome. I am an experienced psychotherapist; serving diverse populations. My theoretical orientation (approach) is based on Carl Rogers "Person Centered". My education and training in ‘community health’ has enabled me the opportunity to serve high-need populations with a wide variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, personality disorders, Bipolar, (OCD), and neurodiverse populations. I use a direct and clinical approach with my clients; identifying and addressing key client issues, quickly, in an ethical and confidential manner.
Hello and welcome. I am an experienced psychotherapist; serving diverse populations. My theoretical orientation (approach) is based on Carl Rogers "Person Centered". My education and training in ‘community health’ has enabled me the opportunity to serve high-need populations with a wide variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, personality disorders, Bipolar, (OCD), and neurodiverse populations. I use a direct and clinical approach with my clients; identifying and addressing key client issues, quickly, in an ethical and confidential manner.
(480) 485-6708 View (480) 485-6708
Photo of Joshua Reish, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joshua Reish
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85037  (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
Photo of Kelly Marcelle - Statewide Serenity Counseling, PLLC, MA, LPC, TF-CBT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Statewide Serenity Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, TF-CBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85018  (Online Only)
Are you or a loved one suffering from emotional stress, depression, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, or anxiety? Are you questioning the endurance of your relationships or marriage? Now is the time to make changes to improve your quality of life. My passion for family, ministry, and living my divine purpose of serving others, can provide the support that you need. I have experience with addressing a variety of symptoms and diagnoses, and enjoy working with diverse populations to reach their potential to achieve stability.
Are you or a loved one suffering from emotional stress, depression, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, or anxiety? Are you questioning the endurance of your relationships or marriage? Now is the time to make changes to improve your quality of life. My passion for family, ministry, and living my divine purpose of serving others, can provide the support that you need. I have experience with addressing a variety of symptoms and diagnoses, and enjoy working with diverse populations to reach their potential to achieve stability.
(936) 260-2584 View (936) 260-2584
Photo of Caroline Olotu - ADHD Treatment Center and Wellness Clinic, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, MSN
ADHD Treatment Center and Wellness Clinic
DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, MSN
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85085
Caroline Olotu is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner. She sees both Adults and Children. She specializes in psychiatric mental health care, specializing in the evaluation & treatment of ADHD and related disorders such as anxiety, depression, test anxiety, insomnia, depression, PTSD and Bipolar disorder. We provide medication management if you’re already taking Adderall, Vyvanse, Ritalin, or other ADHD medications, after an initial evaluation, we can provide refills for your medication. Tele-medicine sessions available
Caroline Olotu is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner. She sees both Adults and Children. She specializes in psychiatric mental health care, specializing in the evaluation & treatment of ADHD and related disorders such as anxiety, depression, test anxiety, insomnia, depression, PTSD and Bipolar disorder. We provide medication management if you’re already taking Adderall, Vyvanse, Ritalin, or other ADHD medications, after an initial evaluation, we can provide refills for your medication. Tele-medicine sessions available
(602) 693-1243 View (602) 693-1243
Photo of Eddie Lee Blakes Jr., MSAC, LISAC, BHP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Eddie Lee Blakes Jr.
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MSAC, LISAC, BHP
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85017
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 Lisa Ruelas, LAC, Counselor
Lisa Ruelas
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85027
Sit back, relax and let's get comfy! My counseling style is like a cozy couch, non-judgy, super empathetic, with lots of smiles and laughs. I strive to create a safe space where you feel heard and understood. I am committed to taking part of the journey with each client, I am here to listen with an open heart and mind. Being a mother of 4, gives me a unique perspective on life’s challenges. I believe even through the toughest times anyone is capable of unlocking new levels of fulfillment, purpose and true happiness. You have what it takes to conquer life's hurdles! Together we'll navigate this journey towards a brighter future.
Sit back, relax and let's get comfy! My counseling style is like a cozy couch, non-judgy, super empathetic, with lots of smiles and laughs. I strive to create a safe space where you feel heard and understood. I am committed to taking part of the journey with each client, I am here to listen with an open heart and mind. Being a mother of 4, gives me a unique perspective on life’s challenges. I believe even through the toughest times anyone is capable of unlocking new levels of fulfillment, purpose and true happiness. You have what it takes to conquer life's hurdles! Together we'll navigate this journey towards a brighter future.
(623) 303-4803 View (623) 303-4803
Photo of Marian Humphries, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marian Humphries
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85012
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 24 years of experience working with adolescents and young adults as well as their families. My experience has been working with clients dealing with depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, suicidal ideation, oppositional defiant disorder, ADHD, and dysfunctional coping skills including self-harming behaviors. Therapy is tailored to the individual using best practices.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 24 years of experience working with adolescents and young adults as well as their families. My experience has been working with clients dealing with depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, suicidal ideation, oppositional defiant disorder, ADHD, and dysfunctional coping skills including self-harming behaviors. Therapy is tailored to the individual using best practices.
(602) 693-0361 View (602) 693-0361
Photo of Jennifer Enders, LCSW, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Enders
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85008  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona. My work experience ranges from psychiatric inpatient work to outpatient behavioral health work with adults, children, and families. I am an infant mental health specialist with experience providing Child Parent Psychotherapy. In addition, I am Certified Mindfulness and Meditation teacher through the School of Positive Transformation. Overall experience includes over 21 years working with clients with different presenting concerns; such as depression, anxiety, addiction issues, family conflict, parenting issues, trauma histories, and other various emotional.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona. My work experience ranges from psychiatric inpatient work to outpatient behavioral health work with adults, children, and families. I am an infant mental health specialist with experience providing Child Parent Psychotherapy. In addition, I am Certified Mindfulness and Meditation teacher through the School of Positive Transformation. Overall experience includes over 21 years working with clients with different presenting concerns; such as depression, anxiety, addiction issues, family conflict, parenting issues, trauma histories, and other various emotional.
(928) 272-5443 View (928) 272-5443
Photo of Jodie Gonzalez, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jodie Gonzalez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85032
Reaching out for therapy can be difficult. I am here to help you on that journey. I aim to provide a supportive relationship and environment in which lasting life changes are made through increased emotional and cognitive flexibility, and a greater sense of self, meaning, purpose, and overall well-being.
Reaching out for therapy can be difficult. I am here to help you on that journey. I aim to provide a supportive relationship and environment in which lasting life changes are made through increased emotional and cognitive flexibility, and a greater sense of self, meaning, purpose, and overall well-being.
(928) 857-8729 View (928) 857-8729
Photo of Erica Sims - Dynamic Counseling and Coaching Solutions, MAPC, LPC, CCTP, CAGSSAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dynamic Counseling and Coaching Solutions
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAPC, LPC, CCTP, CAGSSAC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85027
At Dynamic Counseling and Coaching Solutions we believe whole people connecting with one another enhances the well-being of the family and the community. Similarly, people living and working together as whole communities will make the world better for all of us. Additionally, we all need places where we can speak without fear of judgement or rejection. When these needs are met, barriers to growth and well being can be removed. Our goal is to provide an environment that fosters the kind of individual growth that comes from intentional change by promoting health, healing and restoration.
At Dynamic Counseling and Coaching Solutions we believe whole people connecting with one another enhances the well-being of the family and the community. Similarly, people living and working together as whole communities will make the world better for all of us. Additionally, we all need places where we can speak without fear of judgement or rejection. When these needs are met, barriers to growth and well being can be removed. Our goal is to provide an environment that fosters the kind of individual growth that comes from intentional change by promoting health, healing and restoration.
(602) 598-5373 View (602) 598-5373
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.