Photo of Pamela Self, LCSW, CADCI, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pamela Self
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADCI
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
Waitlist for new clients
I work with a variety of unique and extraordinary adults experiencing mental health challenges, including: Trauma/PTSD, Psychosis/Schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder, sexual abuse, first responders, aging, anxiety, anger management, attachment issues, behavioral issues, cognitive challenges, depression, domestic abuse, suicidal ideation, and self-harm.
In my experience as a mental health therapist, I have had the honor and privilege to be a part of a person’s life who is struggling with mental health. At a young age, I always had an interest and curiosity in the people I encountered in my life, and this continues to hold true to this day. I am continually amazed and inspired by the courage and resiliency of people. We are all in this beautiful life together and sometimes we just need additional support to help us navigate our complicated world. I am a “think outside the box” kind of therapist and will build treatment plans based upon your needs and what works for you.
I work with a variety of unique and extraordinary adults experiencing mental health challenges, including: Trauma/PTSD, Psychosis/Schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder, sexual abuse, first responders, aging, anxiety, anger management, attachment issues, behavioral issues, cognitive challenges, depression, domestic abuse, suicidal ideation, and self-harm.
In my experience as a mental health therapist, I have had the honor and privilege to be a part of a person’s life who is struggling with mental health. At a young age, I always had an interest and curiosity in the people I encountered in my life, and this continues to hold true to this day. I am continually amazed and inspired by the courage and resiliency of people. We are all in this beautiful life together and sometimes we just need additional support to help us navigate our complicated world. I am a “think outside the box” kind of therapist and will build treatment plans based upon your needs and what works for you.
(503) 852-2820 View (503) 852-2820
Photo of Sergiy Barsukov - Inter-Cultural Center for Psychology, PsyD, Psychologist
Inter-Cultural Center for Psychology
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97302
ISSUES & SPECIALITES: Anxiety Conditions, Generalized Anxiety, Separation Anxiety, OCD, Social & School Phobia, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder/Trauma Mood Conditions, Depression, Bipolar, Family, Marriage, Parent-Child difficulty Work conflict, Grief/loss Life transitions, Childhood conditions, Psychosis, Issues of acculturation, Spirituality, Etc.
We are a practice group of licensed psychologists that provide mental health services in English, Russian, and Ukrainian. We provide individual, couple, family, and group therapy, for ages 4 years old and up.
ISSUES & SPECIALITES: Anxiety Conditions, Generalized Anxiety, Separation Anxiety, OCD, Social & School Phobia, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder/Trauma Mood Conditions, Depression, Bipolar, Family, Marriage, Parent-Child difficulty Work conflict, Grief/loss Life transitions, Childhood conditions, Psychosis, Issues of acculturation, Spirituality, Etc.
We are a practice group of licensed psychologists that provide mental health services in English, Russian, and Ukrainian. We provide individual, couple, family, and group therapy, for ages 4 years old and up.
(503) 877-1329 View (503) 877-1329
Photo of Jennifer Crocker, MCFC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Crocker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MCFC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newberg, OR 97132
I have lived and educational experience working with PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, ADHD, and Anxiety.
I currently have a few openings (primarily daytime) and a small wait list (no paperwork required to be on the wait list). I enjoy clients who come to me with complex concerns, who are looking for something other than a cookie cutter experience. My focus is on helping you work through the things that aren’t working for you. My goal is to meet you where you are and walk with you through your journey. You are the driver of our therapeutic car and I step into the passenger seat. I guide you using many different techniques/therapy styles and you are the one completely in control.
I have lived and educational experience working with PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, ADHD, and Anxiety.
I currently have a few openings (primarily daytime) and a small wait list (no paperwork required to be on the wait list). I enjoy clients who come to me with complex concerns, who are looking for something other than a cookie cutter experience. My focus is on helping you work through the things that aren’t working for you. My goal is to meet you where you are and walk with you through your journey. You are the driver of our therapeutic car and I step into the passenger seat. I guide you using many different techniques/therapy styles and you are the one completely in control.
(971) 287-6369 View (971) 287-6369
Photo of Elizabeth Leah Downs, LCSW, CHT, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Leah Downs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHT, ACSW
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97005
I work well with depression, grief, anger management, anxiety/ panic attacks, trauma/ sexual abuse, bipolar & obsessive-compulsive disorders, substance abuse & addictions, as well as with relationship, family, work & school difficulties.
Seeking therapy is an act of courage when your life is not working, when you are feeling overwhelming emotions, or are ready to grow. With over 35 years of experience, I work skillfully with adults, children, families & couples. I am here to compassionately facilitate your learning to live your life with emotional freedom, purpose, creativity, passion & joy! Get in touch with the strength & beauty of your Inner Self & develop more satisfying relationships. Examine your thinking & beliefs & develop mindfulness, transforming your moods & your life. I use a gentle therapeutic style which is an eclectic, psychodynamic, humanistic, transpersonal & holistic wellness approach.
I work well with depression, grief, anger management, anxiety/ panic attacks, trauma/ sexual abuse, bipolar & obsessive-compulsive disorders, substance abuse & addictions, as well as with relationship, family, work & school difficulties.
Seeking therapy is an act of courage when your life is not working, when you are feeling overwhelming emotions, or are ready to grow. With over 35 years of experience, I work skillfully with adults, children, families & couples. I am here to compassionately facilitate your learning to live your life with emotional freedom, purpose, creativity, passion & joy! Get in touch with the strength & beauty of your Inner Self & develop more satisfying relationships. Examine your thinking & beliefs & develop mindfulness, transforming your moods & your life. I use a gentle therapeutic style which is an eclectic, psychodynamic, humanistic, transpersonal & holistic wellness approach.
(503) 444-9712 View (503) 444-9712
Photo of Elli Adkins, MS, LPCA
Elli Adkins
Professional Counselor Associate , MS, LPCA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
I specialize in trauma processing, depression, and anxiety, but have worked with a variety of issues including bipolar disorder, suicidal ideation, self-harm, difficult relationships, personality disorders, PTSD, life transitions, low self-esteem, grief/loss, substance abuse, psychosis, autism, ADHD, and more.
Our past experiences can impact how we navigate the present. Understanding and processing our experiences can lead to healing and transformation. My priority is creating an open and safe space to explore these experiences through genuine connection, empathy and acceptance. I use a person-centered and trauma-informed approach to therapy that draws on techniques from attachment theory, somatic therapy, EMDR, parts work (internal family systems), emotionally focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and others that align with your unique needs, values and goals.
I specialize in trauma processing, depression, and anxiety, but have worked with a variety of issues including bipolar disorder, suicidal ideation, self-harm, difficult relationships, personality disorders, PTSD, life transitions, low self-esteem, grief/loss, substance abuse, psychosis, autism, ADHD, and more.
Our past experiences can impact how we navigate the present. Understanding and processing our experiences can lead to healing and transformation. My priority is creating an open and safe space to explore these experiences through genuine connection, empathy and acceptance. I use a person-centered and trauma-informed approach to therapy that draws on techniques from attachment theory, somatic therapy, EMDR, parts work (internal family systems), emotionally focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and others that align with your unique needs, values and goals.
(971) 396-1526 View (971) 396-1526
Photo of Evan Egener, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Evan Egener
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97215
I provide a nonjudgmental space for you to heal and grow. My practice is evidence-based and includes a variety of focuses. I have specific experience with individuals working in tech, healthcare providers, and legal professionals. Neurodivergence, autism, and associated relational challenges are areas where I have advanced training. I specialize in anxiety, ADHD, trauma, bipolar, depression, substance use disorders, parenting challenges, and relationship issues. My practice is LGBTQIA+ affirming, and I specialize in gender and sexual diversity.
I provide a nonjudgmental space for you to heal and grow. My practice is evidence-based and includes a variety of focuses. I have specific experience with individuals working in tech, healthcare providers, and legal professionals. Neurodivergence, autism, and associated relational challenges are areas where I have advanced training. I specialize in anxiety, ADHD, trauma, bipolar, depression, substance use disorders, parenting challenges, and relationship issues. My practice is LGBTQIA+ affirming, and I specialize in gender and sexual diversity.
(971) 206-6404 View (971) 206-6404
Photo of Suze Gadol Anderson - Authentic Insights, Inc., LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Authentic Insights, Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Eugene, OR 97405
I began in this field in 1987, assisting people with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, addictions, codependency, relationships, communication, self esteem, organization, problem solving, career/work issues, life transitions, as well as many others.
Thank you for reaching out. It takes a lot of courage to seek therapy. I am fortunate to be able to provide high quality counseling via encrypted, confidential video by computer, tablet or phone for all of Texas and Oregon. Change is possible and easier with someone by your side for support, information and problem solving.
I began in this field in 1987, assisting people with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, addictions, codependency, relationships, communication, self esteem, organization, problem solving, career/work issues, life transitions, as well as many others.
Thank you for reaching out. It takes a lot of courage to seek therapy. I am fortunate to be able to provide high quality counseling via encrypted, confidential video by computer, tablet or phone for all of Texas and Oregon. Change is possible and easier with someone by your side for support, information and problem solving.
(214) 843-1902 View (214) 843-1902
Photo of Rachael Gordon - Southern Oregon Psychiatry, LLC, PMHNP
Southern Oregon Psychiatry, LLC
PMHNP
Verified Verified
Medford, OR 97501
Visit our website sopsychiatry.com to request a consultation. Southern Oregon Psychiatry offers comprehensive psychiatric services to adults throughout Oregon and California. Conditions treated include mood disorders (e.g. depression, bipolar disorder), ADHD, anxiety disorders, psychosis, PTSD, OCD and substance use disorders. We offer special rates for veterans and first responders.
Visit our website sopsychiatry.com to request a consultation. Southern Oregon Psychiatry offers comprehensive psychiatric services to adults throughout Oregon and California. Conditions treated include mood disorders (e.g. depression, bipolar disorder), ADHD, anxiety disorders, psychosis, PTSD, OCD and substance use disorders. We offer special rates for veterans and first responders.
(541) 243-5314 View (541) 243-5314
Photo of Rivkah Barmore, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rivkah Barmore
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sunny Valley, OR 97497
I have extensive background working with children/adolescents and adults with anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, Alcohol and Drug dependency, co-occurring disorders, fetal alcohol syndrome, and Aspergers disorder.
I believe that within each individual is the possibility for an optimum life complete with health, balance and well-being. I utilize a varied approach with a strong influence from cognitive-behavioral influences. Imagine a life free from trauma, anxiety, guilt and worry. Imagine a life of emotional freedom. It can be yours. My services are designed to assist you gain mastery over depression, anxiety, stress and doubt through learning how to listen to your inner wisdom and tap into your inner strengths.
I have extensive background working with children/adolescents and adults with anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, Alcohol and Drug dependency, co-occurring disorders, fetal alcohol syndrome, and Aspergers disorder.
I believe that within each individual is the possibility for an optimum life complete with health, balance and well-being. I utilize a varied approach with a strong influence from cognitive-behavioral influences. Imagine a life free from trauma, anxiety, guilt and worry. Imagine a life of emotional freedom. It can be yours. My services are designed to assist you gain mastery over depression, anxiety, stress and doubt through learning how to listen to your inner wisdom and tap into your inner strengths.
(541) 255-4776 View (541) 255-4776
Photo of Lawrance McClung, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lawrance McClung
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97223
I provide an inclusive space for gender identity exploration and affirmation. All people deserve to embrace their inherent worth and dignity, I encourage and support people as they grow into living fully as their authentic self. EMDR trained, I assist people reprocess their trauma in an accepting and validating space to reduce symptoms of PTSD and regain confidence in their sense of safety. I I offer support and skills for individuals with mental health conditions including Bipolar I and psychosis for symptom reduction, stabilization and maintenance.
I provide an inclusive space for gender identity exploration and affirmation. All people deserve to embrace their inherent worth and dignity, I encourage and support people as they grow into living fully as their authentic self. EMDR trained, I assist people reprocess their trauma in an accepting and validating space to reduce symptoms of PTSD and regain confidence in their sense of safety. I I offer support and skills for individuals with mental health conditions including Bipolar I and psychosis for symptom reduction, stabilization and maintenance.
(360) 745-1123 View (360) 745-1123
Photo of Erin Menczer, MS,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erin Menczer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Gresham, OR 97030
My focus for therapy is collaborative and clientcentered. I am a trauma informed clinician; I do my best to create a warm and nonjudgmental therapeutic relationship for those I treat. I am originally from St. Louis, Missouri (Go Cardinals!) and I received my MS in Clinical Psychology from Missouri State University. I am an avid reader, and I enjoy creative endeavors and spending time with my family.
My focus for therapy is collaborative and clientcentered. I am a trauma informed clinician; I do my best to create a warm and nonjudgmental therapeutic relationship for those I treat. I am originally from St. Louis, Missouri (Go Cardinals!) and I received my MS in Clinical Psychology from Missouri State University. I am an avid reader, and I enjoy creative endeavors and spending time with my family.
(833) 996-1403 View (833) 996-1403
Photo of Jake Hamilton, ND, MS
Jake Hamilton
ND, MS
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97211
I’m interested in working with people who would like to take a holistic look at their mental health. This can include an interpersonal counseling approach as well as testing for and treating any potential underlying physiological causes of mental and emotional symptoms. I particularly enjoy working with people with mood disorders, ADHD, anxiety, and OCD.
I’m interested in working with people who would like to take a holistic look at their mental health. This can include an interpersonal counseling approach as well as testing for and treating any potential underlying physiological causes of mental and emotional symptoms. I particularly enjoy working with people with mood disorders, ADHD, anxiety, and OCD.
(971) 351-3213 View (971) 351-3213
Photo of Emily Alderaen, MC,  APC
Emily Alderaen
Professional Counselor Associate, MC, APC
Verified Verified
Gresham, OR 97030
Emily Alderaen is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Oregon who has been practicing since 2023. She has a Master of Counseling from Oregon State University. As a traumainformed clinician, Emily offers an integrative and evidencebased approach, weaving mindfulness, somatic awareness, and a social justice mindset into her work. Emily believes that we all possess inherent wholeness and wisdom. You are the expert on your experiences, and her role is to guide and empower you to deepen your understanding of yourself.
Emily Alderaen is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Oregon who has been practicing since 2023. She has a Master of Counseling from Oregon State University. As a traumainformed clinician, Emily offers an integrative and evidencebased approach, weaving mindfulness, somatic awareness, and a social justice mindset into her work. Emily believes that we all possess inherent wholeness and wisdom. You are the expert on your experiences, and her role is to guide and empower you to deepen your understanding of yourself.
(833) 996-1403 View (833) 996-1403
Photo of Lisa O'Dell, MS,  LMHC,  LPC, Counselor
Lisa O'Dell
Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210
Lisa O'Dell is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Mental Health Counselor who has been practicing since 2010. She is licensed in both Oregon and Washington and a member of the American Counseling Association. She graduated from Capella University with a degree in mental health counseling. Lisa believes that participating in counseling is becoming more aware of yourself, your patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving, communicating, and of making choices that are more consistent with your personal goals, taking charge of your life.
Lisa O'Dell is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Mental Health Counselor who has been practicing since 2010. She is licensed in both Oregon and Washington and a member of the American Counseling Association. She graduated from Capella University with a degree in mental health counseling. Lisa believes that participating in counseling is becoming more aware of yourself, your patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving, communicating, and of making choices that are more consistent with your personal goals, taking charge of your life.
(833) 996-1403 View (833) 996-1403
Photo of Michaela James, MA,  APC
Michaela James
Professional Counselor Associate, MA, APC
Verified Verified
Eugene, OR 97401
Michaela holds a BA in Media Studies from UC Berkeley, and a Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Bushnell University. She is also National Board of Certified Counselor's 2021 Minority Fellowship Scholar preforming research on social media use and adolescent suicidality. She has completed several postgraduate certifications and trainings in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Suicide Assessment and Intervention, multiculturalism, and LGBTQIA+ issues.
Michaela holds a BA in Media Studies from UC Berkeley, and a Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Bushnell University. She is also National Board of Certified Counselor's 2021 Minority Fellowship Scholar preforming research on social media use and adolescent suicidality. She has completed several postgraduate certifications and trainings in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Suicide Assessment and Intervention, multiculturalism, and LGBTQIA+ issues.
(833) 996-1403 View (833) 996-1403
Photo of Sandra Roskott, MSW,  LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sandra Roskott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gladstone, OR 97027
Shaw believes in tailoring treatment approaches to each individual person, based on their own values, beliefs, struggles and goals. She uses client centered therapy using Gestalt, Narrative, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Shaw has a specific focus on Polyvagal Therapy for treating the effects of trauma and PTSD. Shaw also enjoys working with LGBTQIA2S+. Meditation, mindfulness, breathing practices, as well as Positive Psychology techniques are also used to help clients achieve the goals they have identified, and find more contentment in their lives.
Shaw believes in tailoring treatment approaches to each individual person, based on their own values, beliefs, struggles and goals. She uses client centered therapy using Gestalt, Narrative, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Shaw has a specific focus on Polyvagal Therapy for treating the effects of trauma and PTSD. Shaw also enjoys working with LGBTQIA2S+. Meditation, mindfulness, breathing practices, as well as Positive Psychology techniques are also used to help clients achieve the goals they have identified, and find more contentment in their lives.
(833) 996-1403 View (833) 996-1403
Photo of Matthew Preuitt, MA,  APC
Matthew Preuitt
Professional Counselor Associate, MA, APC
Verified Verified
Clackamas, OR 97015
Matt uses a variety of treatment modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and an insight oriented therapeutic approach with his clients. His style is warm, collaborative, supportive and empathetic. He listens to your experience to cultivate understanding, meaning and selfexamination. Matt helps his clients to understand their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. He explores family of origin dynamics and those issues that may be outside of his client’s immediate awareness that impact his client’s relationship to themselves and others.
Matt uses a variety of treatment modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and an insight oriented therapeutic approach with his clients. His style is warm, collaborative, supportive and empathetic. He listens to your experience to cultivate understanding, meaning and selfexamination. Matt helps his clients to understand their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. He explores family of origin dynamics and those issues that may be outside of his client’s immediate awareness that impact his client’s relationship to themselves and others.
(833) 996-1403 View (833) 996-1403
Photo of Beth James, MA,  CADC I,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Beth James
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, CADC I, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beaverton, OR 97006
Beth believes in using a Cognitive Behavioral approach and is trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy. She believes these skills are helpful for anyone who is having difficulty managing life challenges. She also uses a family systems approach when working with couples and adolescents. Her main areas of focus include working with adolescents and young adults and their challenges, addiction issues and depression/anxiety disorders. In her spare time, Beth enjoys outdoor activities, reading & time with family, friends and her dog.
Beth believes in using a Cognitive Behavioral approach and is trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy. She believes these skills are helpful for anyone who is having difficulty managing life challenges. She also uses a family systems approach when working with couples and adolescents. Her main areas of focus include working with adolescents and young adults and their challenges, addiction issues and depression/anxiety disorders. In her spare time, Beth enjoys outdoor activities, reading & time with family, friends and her dog.
(833) 996-1403 View (833) 996-1403
Photo of Nakelee Saah - Devine Haven Counseling, LLC, MA, LCPC, LPC, Counselor
Devine Haven Counseling, LLC
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97201  (Online Only)
It is believed that some of the strongest and bravest individuals are the ones who not only accept their struggles but also take the step to understand how to properly cope and heal from it. I am dedicated to helping individuals navigate life's challenges and achieve emotional well-being. I believe in a person-centered, client-focused approach, tailoring my techniques to meet the unique needs of each individual. By fostering a compassionate and non-judgmental environment, I strive to empower clients to explore their feelings, develop coping strategies, and build resilience.
It is believed that some of the strongest and bravest individuals are the ones who not only accept their struggles but also take the step to understand how to properly cope and heal from it. I am dedicated to helping individuals navigate life's challenges and achieve emotional well-being. I believe in a person-centered, client-focused approach, tailoring my techniques to meet the unique needs of each individual. By fostering a compassionate and non-judgmental environment, I strive to empower clients to explore their feelings, develop coping strategies, and build resilience.
(240) 213-7932 View (240) 213-7932
Photo of Chineze J Martinez, LMHC, CAP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chineze J Martinez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, CAP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97217
Just Keep Moving Clinical Services, LLC is a private practice that emphasizes the power of addressing challenging areas in life and being able to adequately move forward with life. Our goal is to contribute to the wholeness of your life--spiritually, psychologically, physically--generating empowerment and self-actualization. At Just Keep Moving Clinical Services, LLC your first step in seeking consultation is viewed as strength. Every step after that will create the foundation of your new beginning. Remember to just keep moving.
Just Keep Moving Clinical Services, LLC is a private practice that emphasizes the power of addressing challenging areas in life and being able to adequately move forward with life. Our goal is to contribute to the wholeness of your life--spiritually, psychologically, physically--generating empowerment and self-actualization. At Just Keep Moving Clinical Services, LLC your first step in seeking consultation is viewed as strength. Every step after that will create the foundation of your new beginning. Remember to just keep moving.
(305) 614-9463 View (305) 614-9463
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Bipolar Disorder Therapists

What is the most successful approach to treating bipolar disorder?

Living with bipolar disorder can be challenging, and a number of therapies have been found effective in providing support to patients as they gain the skills to understand and manage the disorder. Family-focused therapy is often helpful for children and teens (the majority of cases develop before age 19); it aims to minimize mood cycling by improving family communication and reducing conflict. It also helps young people navigate the developmental challenges the disorder can create. Cognitive and behavioral therapy (CBT) and variants such as Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)help patients manage the thoughts and feelings that influence bipolar mood swings as well as develop specific behavioral strategies to counteract them.

What happens in therapy for bipolar disorder?

Because the patterns of mood switching and its triggers differ for each person and can change over time, mood tracking or monitoring becomes a basic way patients learn about the nature of their condition. One of the most common features of therapy is finding a workable method of mood monitoring, in which patients track their daily activities and rate their moods, then use the findings to adjust routines accordingly. Patients learn ways of handling the many stresses that arise in life so that they do not trigger mood swings.

What kinds of problems does therapy help with?

Like many other mental health disorders, BPD is heavily influenced by stress; therapy provides skills for coping with stressors of all kinds. Therapy is extremely important for helping individuals identify the situations that may trigger mood switching, so that mood swings can be prevented. Therapy may especially target recognition of the early stages of mood change so that they can be managed. In addition, therapy helps patients deal with the significant amount of turbulence the disorder can create in relationships and in work life.

What is the goal of therapy for bipolar disorder?

Therapy helps patients set up their lives to maintain stability so that their mood isn’t constantly threatened by daily events. Perhaps the first task of therapy is to educate people about the nature of the disorder. At the same time, a primary goal of therapy is to enhance adherence to drug treatment. Extended periods of mood stability can prompt patients to discontinue medication, triggering relapse, while the early phases of manic episodes can feel so energizing that patients stop medication, ushering in full-blown mania and the altered self-perception that can lead to destructive behaviors. Another major goal of therapy is to understand one’s mood patterns so as to minimize both the frequency and intensity of mood cycling.