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
Tempe, AZ 85282
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
Mary Oakley
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, CC-AASP
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85282
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 Lauryn Drache, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauryn Drache
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85282  (Online Only)
My goal is assisting clients with identifying and addressing internal and interpersonal goals by breaking cycles that do not work for them. The goal is to have clients gain autonomy and empowerment to address complex issues and concerns pragmatically, effectively, and consistently. Demographics include teens, young adults, and adults (individual session). The populations I work with include Developmental Trauma and/or Trauma, SMI, Personality Disorders, BFRB, Bipolar Disorder, and Neurodiversity (Autism, ADHD, and OCD). I utilize a multi-modal approach to ensure clients receive services that best meet their individualized needs.
My goal is assisting clients with identifying and addressing internal and interpersonal goals by breaking cycles that do not work for them. The goal is to have clients gain autonomy and empowerment to address complex issues and concerns pragmatically, effectively, and consistently. Demographics include teens, young adults, and adults (individual session). The populations I work with include Developmental Trauma and/or Trauma, SMI, Personality Disorders, BFRB, Bipolar Disorder, and Neurodiversity (Autism, ADHD, and OCD). I utilize a multi-modal approach to ensure clients receive services that best meet their individualized needs.
(480) 750-7534 x2 View (480) 750-7534 x2
Photo of Mark Treegoob, PhD, Psychologist
Mark Treegoob
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85283
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 Christopher Trotman, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christopher Trotman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85284  (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 Jessie Moecia, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessie Moecia
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85288
I have had the privilege of working in community mental health since 2016 and have most enjoyed being able to meet with and take the journey with clients from many diverse backgrounds, facing various mental health challenges. Most humans want and need to be understood without the fear of judgment in order to thrive and create positive change. I am able to help meet the needs of those facing trauma, co-dependency, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, ADHD, relationship challenges and phase of life challenges.
I have had the privilege of working in community mental health since 2016 and have most enjoyed being able to meet with and take the journey with clients from many diverse backgrounds, facing various mental health challenges. Most humans want and need to be understood without the fear of judgment in order to thrive and create positive change. I am able to help meet the needs of those facing trauma, co-dependency, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, ADHD, relationship challenges and phase of life challenges.
(509) 285-0411 View (509) 285-0411
Photo of Roxanne Dalpos, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Roxanne Dalpos
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
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 Rebecca Fregoso, MS, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Rebecca Fregoso
Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85282
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 View (480) 452-1022
Photo of Daniel J. Nichols - Scottsdale Providence Recovery Center, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Scottsdale Providence Recovery Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85282
We know how scary it can feel to reach out for help at your lowest point. At Scottsdale Providence, we understand the feeling of overwhelming desperation, and our experienced staff are here to guide you with compassion toward a brighter future filled with joy, healing and belonging. We are dedicated to helping you attain a sense of freedom and purpose in your life. Whether it's drug or alcohol problems, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or complex co-occurring disorders, our luxury inpatient treatment center is here with individualized treatment options to get you through life's problems.
We know how scary it can feel to reach out for help at your lowest point. At Scottsdale Providence, we understand the feeling of overwhelming desperation, and our experienced staff are here to guide you with compassion toward a brighter future filled with joy, healing and belonging. We are dedicated to helping you attain a sense of freedom and purpose in your life. Whether it's drug or alcohol problems, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or complex co-occurring disorders, our luxury inpatient treatment center is here with individualized treatment options to get you through life's problems.
(480) 470-5887 View (480) 470-5887
Photo of Shelly Reed, PsyD, Psychologist
Shelly Reed
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85281
Whether you are well versed with therapy and are ready to dive in again or you are cautiously considering therapy for the first time, my team at Freedom Psychological Center and I are committed to helping you identify and remove the obstacles of trauma, depression, anxiety, addiction, bipolar disorder, sleep disorders, difficult transitions, relationship issues, insecurity, problematic sexual behaviors, and self-injurious behavior out of your way so you can get back to your life or maybe even feel alive for the first time.
Whether you are well versed with therapy and are ready to dive in again or you are cautiously considering therapy for the first time, my team at Freedom Psychological Center and I are committed to helping you identify and remove the obstacles of trauma, depression, anxiety, addiction, bipolar disorder, sleep disorders, difficult transitions, relationship issues, insecurity, problematic sexual behaviors, and self-injurious behavior out of your way so you can get back to your life or maybe even feel alive for the first time.
(480) 719-2643 View (480) 719-2643
Photo of Kathleen Cramer, PhD, Psychologist
Kathleen Cramer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85282  (Online Only)
Therapy is used to address stress, depression, bipolar disorder, relationship issues, etc.
Just as you visit physicians for preventive care, you can meet with a psychologist to address issues before they become problematic. This proactive approach encourages the development of psychological health. People are in good psychological health when they make good decisions, manage stress well, communicate effectively, have healthy relationships, and take good care of themselves emotionally and physically. Let me work with you to establish and maintain your optimal psychological health. We can do that through the use of therapy and/or psychological testing, as I specialize in both forms of treatment.
Therapy is used to address stress, depression, bipolar disorder, relationship issues, etc.
Just as you visit physicians for preventive care, you can meet with a psychologist to address issues before they become problematic. This proactive approach encourages the development of psychological health. People are in good psychological health when they make good decisions, manage stress well, communicate effectively, have healthy relationships, and take good care of themselves emotionally and physically. Let me work with you to establish and maintain your optimal psychological health. We can do that through the use of therapy and/or psychological testing, as I specialize in both forms of treatment.
(480) 405-0585 View (480) 405-0585
Photo of Adam Lovallo - Adam Lovallo Counseling , MC, LPC, Counselor
Adam Lovallo Counseling
Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85284  (Online Only)
I specialize in individual counseling, with experience working on the following issues: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, sleep disorders, grief, LGBTQ, adoption, substance abuse and video game addiction, as well low self-esteem.
I am Telehealth Therapist, licensed to serve Arizona residents. As a seasoned Licensed Professional Counselor for over 25 years, my job is to help you to address the challenges in your life by providing you with a safe space to discover and embrace your true authentic self first and foremost. I can help you achieve this by providing you with constructive feedback coupled with unconditional positive regard and encouragement. In therapy I will also help you to understand how your thoughts and behavior affect your feelings. So let's move you from a place of simply existing and enduring life to actually living life to its fullest!
I specialize in individual counseling, with experience working on the following issues: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, sleep disorders, grief, LGBTQ, adoption, substance abuse and video game addiction, as well low self-esteem.
I am Telehealth Therapist, licensed to serve Arizona residents. As a seasoned Licensed Professional Counselor for over 25 years, my job is to help you to address the challenges in your life by providing you with a safe space to discover and embrace your true authentic self first and foremost. I can help you achieve this by providing you with constructive feedback coupled with unconditional positive regard and encouragement. In therapy I will also help you to understand how your thoughts and behavior affect your feelings. So let's move you from a place of simply existing and enduring life to actually living life to its fullest!
(520) 224-1007 View (520) 224-1007
Photo of Eddie Lee Blakes Jr., MSAC, LISAC, BHP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Eddie Lee Blakes Jr.
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MSAC, LISAC, BHP
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85281
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 Kristine Mill, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristine Mill
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85284
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 Antonio Rojelio Alarcon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Antonio Rojelio Alarcon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85281  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Antonio. I have 8 years of experience in treating adult males experiencing addiction, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, depression, and trauma related disorders (PTSD, C-PTSD). At the core of my practice is the intension to provide a safe, compassionate, unconditional, and collaborative relationship with you for the purposes of making meaningful progress towards personal growth goals.
Hello, my name is Antonio. I have 8 years of experience in treating adult males experiencing addiction, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, depression, and trauma related disorders (PTSD, C-PTSD). At the core of my practice is the intension to provide a safe, compassionate, unconditional, and collaborative relationship with you for the purposes of making meaningful progress towards personal growth goals.
(480) 571-9240 View (480) 571-9240
Photo of Malia Seronio, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Malia Seronio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85283
First, I want to acknowledge the significance of the steps you are taking to seek support, as I know this process can feel scary and overwhelming. I enjoy working with individuals from adolescence all the way into late-life transitions. I believe that at any age or stage in life, we all have opportunities to make positive changes and increase our wellness. I have experience working with diverse populations of different ages, cultural backgrounds, stages in life, and mental health needs including anxiety-based disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, grief and loss, substance use, and trauma.
First, I want to acknowledge the significance of the steps you are taking to seek support, as I know this process can feel scary and overwhelming. I enjoy working with individuals from adolescence all the way into late-life transitions. I believe that at any age or stage in life, we all have opportunities to make positive changes and increase our wellness. I have experience working with diverse populations of different ages, cultural backgrounds, stages in life, and mental health needs including anxiety-based disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, grief and loss, substance use, and trauma.
(480) 613-7144 View (480) 613-7144
Photo of Joan Marie Polansky, PhD, Psychologist
Joan Marie Polansky
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85283  (Online Only)
I am in the business of helping people change. My ideal client is motivated to change their life for the better. I assume that you would prefer to live your life with joy and satisfaction as quickly as possible. Therefore, we will work together to reach that end. Depending on the client, I utilize a number of approaches including cognitive therapy, interpersonal therapy, education and behavioral approaches. As a generalist, I can keep fresh and maintain a passion about my work. My clients concerns are varied including: anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, medical conditions, life transitions and relationship issues.
I am in the business of helping people change. My ideal client is motivated to change their life for the better. I assume that you would prefer to live your life with joy and satisfaction as quickly as possible. Therefore, we will work together to reach that end. Depending on the client, I utilize a number of approaches including cognitive therapy, interpersonal therapy, education and behavioral approaches. As a generalist, I can keep fresh and maintain a passion about my work. My clients concerns are varied including: anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, medical conditions, life transitions and relationship issues.
(480) 769-5678 View (480) 769-5678
Photo of Mya L. Adams, MEd, LAC, Counselor
Mya L. Adams
Counselor, MEd, LAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85287
I’ve worked with clients to help them overcome/manage; Depression, PTSD, Gender Dysphoria, Body Dysphoria, Anxiety, Bipolar, ADHD, Personality Disorders, relationship conflict, and/or addiction.
Life, our past, conflict, and all of the demands we face day-to-day can leave us feeling overwhelmed, anxious, stressed, depressed, angry, and sometimes hopeless. It does not have to be like that. Change is possible. Changing how you feel about yourself, your relationships, and your life is possible! When we feel our best - we show up as our best self in all areas of life. Please visit my website to learn more about me and how I can help you.
I’ve worked with clients to help them overcome/manage; Depression, PTSD, Gender Dysphoria, Body Dysphoria, Anxiety, Bipolar, ADHD, Personality Disorders, relationship conflict, and/or addiction.
Life, our past, conflict, and all of the demands we face day-to-day can leave us feeling overwhelmed, anxious, stressed, depressed, angry, and sometimes hopeless. It does not have to be like that. Change is possible. Changing how you feel about yourself, your relationships, and your life is possible! When we feel our best - we show up as our best self in all areas of life. Please visit my website to learn more about me and how I can help you.
(480) 466-0744 View (480) 466-0744
Photo of Evalyn Vasquez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Evalyn Vasquez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tempe, AZ 85282  (Online Only)
Evalyn Vasquez is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 5 years of experience in the mental and behavioral health field. She loves sharing her knowledge with adolescents, adults and families. Evalyn specializes in concerns involving anxiety, depression, emotional management, communication, relationships, grief/loss, self-esteem, trauma, school issues, and life transitions.
Evalyn Vasquez is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 5 years of experience in the mental and behavioral health field. She loves sharing her knowledge with adolescents, adults and families. Evalyn specializes in concerns involving anxiety, depression, emotional management, communication, relationships, grief/loss, self-esteem, trauma, school issues, and life transitions.
(602) 960-7128 View (602) 960-7128
Photo of Bailey Benham, LAC, Counselor
Bailey Benham
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tempe, AZ 85282
My life experiences have led me to the helping profession where I maintain a strategy with meeting people where they are in their exploration to discover or restore their quality of life. My methods and technique are to assist you with navigating and resolving conflicts where you can enhance your abilities for a fresh perspective and a renewed outlook. We all maintain the ability to create our own positive and negative emotions with how we interpret our lives, so let's design your plan together where you will become more confident with overcoming the challenges of life.
My life experiences have led me to the helping profession where I maintain a strategy with meeting people where they are in their exploration to discover or restore their quality of life. My methods and technique are to assist you with navigating and resolving conflicts where you can enhance your abilities for a fresh perspective and a renewed outlook. We all maintain the ability to create our own positive and negative emotions with how we interpret our lives, so let's design your plan together where you will become more confident with overcoming the challenges of life.
(480) 907-3609 View (480) 907-3609
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.