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Photo of Macayla Meyers, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Macayla Meyers
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
My area of expertise includes treating various mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, gender dysphoria, substance use disorders.
Are racing thoughts keeping you up night? Tired of ER visits from panic attacks? Struggling to focus or pay attention? Feeling overwhelmed in crowds? Overall lack of motivation or energy? Do your emotions feel like a rollercoaster? Spending more time on hold or waitlists instead of getting the card you need? Take the first step and Book a consultation today - leave the rest up to us! Every client gets a personal concierge and other exclusive benefits. Schedule to learn more. All inclusive mental health and primary care. Appointments available 7 days per week for returning clients. Every client gets a personal concierge.
My area of expertise includes treating various mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, gender dysphoria, substance use disorders.
Are racing thoughts keeping you up night? Tired of ER visits from panic attacks? Struggling to focus or pay attention? Feeling overwhelmed in crowds? Overall lack of motivation or energy? Do your emotions feel like a rollercoaster? Spending more time on hold or waitlists instead of getting the card you need? Take the first step and Book a consultation today - leave the rest up to us! Every client gets a personal concierge and other exclusive benefits. Schedule to learn more. All inclusive mental health and primary care. Appointments available 7 days per week for returning clients. Every client gets a personal concierge.
(949) 776-8428 View (949) 776-8428
Photo of Danielle Parks, MA, LMHC, LPCC, Counselor
Danielle Parks
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Laguna Beach, CA 92651  (Online Only)
That being said, I have worked alongside many people - from severely mentally ill to major anxiety, bipolar and borderline.
I ask that you are ready to make a commitment, to yourself, first. I consider this the first step of the journey - I am here ready to make the commitment alongside you. Think of it as the beginning of falling in love with yourself...your relationships, and ultimately your life. If you are reading this I hope you answer the call, to yourself...it is the beginning of the type of change you have dreamt of, meeting your best self, meeting your soul.
That being said, I have worked alongside many people - from severely mentally ill to major anxiety, bipolar and borderline.
I ask that you are ready to make a commitment, to yourself, first. I consider this the first step of the journey - I am here ready to make the commitment alongside you. Think of it as the beginning of falling in love with yourself...your relationships, and ultimately your life. If you are reading this I hope you answer the call, to yourself...it is the beginning of the type of change you have dreamt of, meeting your best self, meeting your soul.
(425) 225-4682 View (425) 225-4682
Photo of Theresa Rodriguez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Theresa Rodriguez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
My name is Theresa Rodriguez, CADC, LMFT. I have been in the helping field for over 14 years. My experience and background are with individuals who need further assistance with mental health, substance use, trauma, LGBTQ+. Using Acceptance and Commitment therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Relapse Prevention techniques to help clients make progress and start feeling better about where they are and where they have yet to go. I have experience working with the LGBTQ+ community, individuals struggling with co-occurring disorders, substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, and trauma.
My name is Theresa Rodriguez, CADC, LMFT. I have been in the helping field for over 14 years. My experience and background are with individuals who need further assistance with mental health, substance use, trauma, LGBTQ+. Using Acceptance and Commitment therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Relapse Prevention techniques to help clients make progress and start feeling better about where they are and where they have yet to go. I have experience working with the LGBTQ+ community, individuals struggling with co-occurring disorders, substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, and trauma.
(415) 949-2885 View (415) 949-2885
Photo of Jerry Weichman - The Weichman Clinic, PhD, Psychologist
The Weichman Clinic
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Aliso Viejo, CA 92656
We diagnose and serve children and adolescents coping with: * Abusive Dating Relationships * Academic Challenges * ADHD * Anxiety and Stress-Related Disorders * Austism and Spectrum-Related Disorders * Bipolar Disorder * Body Image Issues * Chronic Headaches * Concussions * Cutting and Self-Mutilation * Depression * Epilepsy * Family Relational Problems * Learning Disorders * Low Self Esteem * Movement Disorders * Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder * Oppositional Defiance and Behavioral Problems * Substance Abuse * Trauma and PTSD.
It's tough being a parent today. Do you have a kid or teen who is struggling? Does your family need answers about your child's state of mind or are looking for actual tools to help heal your family dynamic? Our mission is simple: The Weichman Clinic provides comprehensive mental health services, evaluations, diagnosis and collaborative treatment. And we do it all in one place with a special focus on the unique physiological and psychological needs of children and adolescents.The Weichman Clinic at Hoag Hospital's Neurosciences Institute provides unparalleled access to doctors and therapists who exclusively specialize in children and adolescents. Its multi-disciplinary team of professionals treats a variety of issues such as childhood or teenage developmental issues and complex mental health concerns. Each team member bring in-depth understanding of the unique needs of young people as well as a commitment to helping them gain insight into themselves so they can grow and thrive as adults.
We diagnose and serve children and adolescents coping with: * Abusive Dating Relationships * Academic Challenges * ADHD * Anxiety and Stress-Related Disorders * Austism and Spectrum-Related Disorders * Bipolar Disorder * Body Image Issues * Chronic Headaches * Concussions * Cutting and Self-Mutilation * Depression * Epilepsy * Family Relational Problems * Learning Disorders * Low Self Esteem * Movement Disorders * Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder * Oppositional Defiance and Behavioral Problems * Substance Abuse * Trauma and PTSD.
It's tough being a parent today. Do you have a kid or teen who is struggling? Does your family need answers about your child's state of mind or are looking for actual tools to help heal your family dynamic? Our mission is simple: The Weichman Clinic provides comprehensive mental health services, evaluations, diagnosis and collaborative treatment. And we do it all in one place with a special focus on the unique physiological and psychological needs of children and adolescents.The Weichman Clinic at Hoag Hospital's Neurosciences Institute provides unparalleled access to doctors and therapists who exclusively specialize in children and adolescents. Its multi-disciplinary team of professionals treats a variety of issues such as childhood or teenage developmental issues and complex mental health concerns. Each team member bring in-depth understanding of the unique needs of young people as well as a commitment to helping them gain insight into themselves so they can grow and thrive as adults.
(949) 537-2393 View (949) 537-2393
Photo of Kristina Tyler (Formerly Roberts), PhD, QME, Psychologist
Kristina Tyler (Formerly Roberts)
Psychologist, PhD, QME
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mission Viejo, CA 92691  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! I am a clinical and forensic psychologist. I AM NOT ACCEPTING NEW THERAPY CLIENTS UNTIL APRIL, 2024 (Wait list available) I work in partnership with clients to meet their goals, providing the tools they need with an empathetic, yet not passive approach. I have extensive background in psychotherapy, crisis management, psychological testing, divorce adjustment, trauma, depressive disorders, anxiety, bipolar disorders, etc.
Welcome! I am a clinical and forensic psychologist. I AM NOT ACCEPTING NEW THERAPY CLIENTS UNTIL APRIL, 2024 (Wait list available) I work in partnership with clients to meet their goals, providing the tools they need with an empathetic, yet not passive approach. I have extensive background in psychotherapy, crisis management, psychological testing, divorce adjustment, trauma, depressive disorders, anxiety, bipolar disorders, etc.
(949) 632-6166 View (949) 632-6166
Photo of Lynda G Helfend, PhD, Psychologist
Lynda G Helfend
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92675
It is difficult to make the decision to seek help, and the prospect of finding a psychologist with whom you feel comfortable can be daunting. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and my goal is to work with you in order to fully identify and understand your concerns. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Having worked in a variety of settings including the National Asthma center and a large urban general hospital I am skilled at tailoring therapy sessions to the needs of each client.
It is difficult to make the decision to seek help, and the prospect of finding a psychologist with whom you feel comfortable can be daunting. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and my goal is to work with you in order to fully identify and understand your concerns. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Having worked in a variety of settings including the National Asthma center and a large urban general hospital I am skilled at tailoring therapy sessions to the needs of each client.
(949) 391-4145 View (949) 391-4145
Photo of Anne Laptin, MS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anne Laptin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
Not accepting new clients
My focus as a psychotherapist is to help each individual achieve their full potential. Whether there is a current challenge or a broader goal to create change, the biggest indicator of success in therapy is the rapport one has with their therapist. I provide a safe environment in my office, one of support, honesty, trust and free of judgment. This is essential to the therapeutic process and in the client's ability to feel safe and understood. I assist and help guide my clients in life transformations, to gain insight and to live a better, more meaningful life.
My focus as a psychotherapist is to help each individual achieve their full potential. Whether there is a current challenge or a broader goal to create change, the biggest indicator of success in therapy is the rapport one has with their therapist. I provide a safe environment in my office, one of support, honesty, trust and free of judgment. This is essential to the therapeutic process and in the client's ability to feel safe and understood. I assist and help guide my clients in life transformations, to gain insight and to live a better, more meaningful life.
(949) 383-4428 View (949) 383-4428
Photo of Annika Marshall, PhD, LMFT-S, CFLE, Marriage & Family Therapist
Annika Marshall
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT-S, CFLE
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Laguna Niguel, CA 92607  (Online Only)
Now accepting new clients across California. I believe that every person deserves beautiful relationships built on trust, compassion, effective communication, and mutual respect. If you're in a new relationship, therapy can be an ideal place to create a strong foundation for lasting love. Therapy is also for people facing the most difficult personal and relationship challenges such as chronic mental health concerns, extreme conflict, trauma, parenting/family issues, and profound betrayal. I have an unwavering commitment to helping individuals and couples heal, renew connections, or make brave decisions to choose new unknown paths.
Now accepting new clients across California. I believe that every person deserves beautiful relationships built on trust, compassion, effective communication, and mutual respect. If you're in a new relationship, therapy can be an ideal place to create a strong foundation for lasting love. Therapy is also for people facing the most difficult personal and relationship challenges such as chronic mental health concerns, extreme conflict, trauma, parenting/family issues, and profound betrayal. I have an unwavering commitment to helping individuals and couples heal, renew connections, or make brave decisions to choose new unknown paths.
(864) 514-5733 View (864) 514-5733
Photo of Sharm Lanel Luehmann, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sharm Lanel Luehmann
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
San Clemente, CA 92672
I became a marriage and family therapist through a spiritual inspiration. My goal is to help individuals become connected to themselves and the world around them. I believe we are all wounded not broken and deserve an opportunity to heal. My methods are uniquely connected to my personality. I am both loving and direct, and desire to get to the goal as quickly as possible. I think out of the box yet remain professional. I am insightful, intuitive and creative in my approach.
I became a marriage and family therapist through a spiritual inspiration. My goal is to help individuals become connected to themselves and the world around them. I believe we are all wounded not broken and deserve an opportunity to heal. My methods are uniquely connected to my personality. I am both loving and direct, and desire to get to the goal as quickly as possible. I think out of the box yet remain professional. I am insightful, intuitive and creative in my approach.
(949) 536-8723 View (949) 536-8723
Photo of Sherri Abbassi, LMFT, EdD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sherri Abbassi
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EdD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
Are you feeling alone and hopeless? Do you feel as though no matter what you do, you aren't able to make progress in your everyday life? Is it difficult to set goals for yourself and actually meet them? Has it become impossible to communicate with those around you? Are you feeling anxious and stressed out by various obstacles that you feel you don't have control over? Well today's the day for you to free your mind! You have taken the initial step of putting yourself first and making positive changes in your life. Welcome to the beginning of your therapeutic journey!
Are you feeling alone and hopeless? Do you feel as though no matter what you do, you aren't able to make progress in your everyday life? Is it difficult to set goals for yourself and actually meet them? Has it become impossible to communicate with those around you? Are you feeling anxious and stressed out by various obstacles that you feel you don't have control over? Well today's the day for you to free your mind! You have taken the initial step of putting yourself first and making positive changes in your life. Welcome to the beginning of your therapeutic journey!
(949) 288-2781 View (949) 288-2781
Photo of Makenzie Gilliam, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Makenzie Gilliam
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677  (Online Only)
I work collaboratively with individuals, couples and families to create a path toward specific goals for therapy. Throughout the years I have worked with people from all different walks of life, and I believe in the importance of individualizing treatment to each person and their experiences. I have extensive knowledge of eating disorders and have assisted people of all ages in better understanding and overcoming their disordered eating behaviors. I understand how alcohol and drug addiction, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and trauma can leave you feeling disconnected from parts of yourself and others.
I work collaboratively with individuals, couples and families to create a path toward specific goals for therapy. Throughout the years I have worked with people from all different walks of life, and I believe in the importance of individualizing treatment to each person and their experiences. I have extensive knowledge of eating disorders and have assisted people of all ages in better understanding and overcoming their disordered eating behaviors. I understand how alcohol and drug addiction, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and trauma can leave you feeling disconnected from parts of yourself and others.
(858) 251-8438 View (858) 251-8438
Photo of Alexandra Bozick, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alexandra Bozick
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Laguna Hills, CA 92653
Do you find yourself needing help with life stressors that are more challenging than you can handle? Are you ready to make changes in your life? It takes courage to ask for help, but the rewards of doing so can lead to a lifetime of fulfillment. I provide a safe environment to address life’s challenges and uncover the best version of yourself. In working together, I will help you gain insight and develop solutions that can help you gain control of your life while achieving your goals. Ultimately, therapy can lead you to a more fulfilling life.
Do you find yourself needing help with life stressors that are more challenging than you can handle? Are you ready to make changes in your life? It takes courage to ask for help, but the rewards of doing so can lead to a lifetime of fulfillment. I provide a safe environment to address life’s challenges and uncover the best version of yourself. In working together, I will help you gain insight and develop solutions that can help you gain control of your life while achieving your goals. Ultimately, therapy can lead you to a more fulfilling life.
(714) 415-2634 View (714) 415-2634
Photo of Simone Zeschuk, MSc, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Simone Zeschuk
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSc, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dana Point, CA 92629
Feeling alone, hurt, and disconnected. Struggling with relationship stress, an eating disorder, or general mental health? We often find ourselves trapped in negative, repetitive patterns of attempting to solve the problem on our own with no success. We desperately desire to be seen and heard and when this fails it can lead to arguments, shutting down, or avoidance. The more we try to break free from this pattern, the more isolated and hurt we feel. We yearn for comfort and healing. Whether this is affecting how you personally cope with challenging problems or hindering your connection with your loved one, there is help.
Feeling alone, hurt, and disconnected. Struggling with relationship stress, an eating disorder, or general mental health? We often find ourselves trapped in negative, repetitive patterns of attempting to solve the problem on our own with no success. We desperately desire to be seen and heard and when this fails it can lead to arguments, shutting down, or avoidance. The more we try to break free from this pattern, the more isolated and hurt we feel. We yearn for comfort and healing. Whether this is affecting how you personally cope with challenging problems or hindering your connection with your loved one, there is help.
(512) 489-4323 View (512) 489-4323
Photo of Dorina Stern, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dorina Stern
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92691  (Online Only)
Do you feel stressed and overwhelmed on a daily basis? Does it feel like your mind is working against you? Do you feel like you're never good enough? How you feel about yourself and the way you perceive the situations in your life is the key to how happy and successful you are. I can help you decrease the anxiety and depression that creates this mental confusion and may be preventing you from creating the life and the relationships that you want. Please check out my website at www.dorinasterntherapy.com for more detailed information about my practice. Weekend and evening appointments are available.
Do you feel stressed and overwhelmed on a daily basis? Does it feel like your mind is working against you? Do you feel like you're never good enough? How you feel about yourself and the way you perceive the situations in your life is the key to how happy and successful you are. I can help you decrease the anxiety and depression that creates this mental confusion and may be preventing you from creating the life and the relationships that you want. Please check out my website at www.dorinasterntherapy.com for more detailed information about my practice. Weekend and evening appointments are available.
(949) 514-8852 View (949) 514-8852
Photo of Dr. Stephanie Stevens, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Stephanie Stevens
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
"The life of the human soul is not a 'being' but a 'becoming' " ~ Alfred Adler My work is based on the belief that people desire to be happy, effective, and content in their lives and that they have within themselves the resources to achieve these goals. My therapeutic goal is to help you evolve toward your greatest potential. I believe that psychotherapy can help individuals most effectively use their resources to increase self-understanding, improve decision-making, solve problems, and create healthier paths to the lives they desire.
"The life of the human soul is not a 'being' but a 'becoming' " ~ Alfred Adler My work is based on the belief that people desire to be happy, effective, and content in their lives and that they have within themselves the resources to achieve these goals. My therapeutic goal is to help you evolve toward your greatest potential. I believe that psychotherapy can help individuals most effectively use their resources to increase self-understanding, improve decision-making, solve problems, and create healthier paths to the lives they desire.
(949) 979-7263 View (949) 979-7263
Photo of Laura Caghan, PsyD, PsyD, Psychologist
Laura Caghan
Psychologist, PsyD, PsyD
Verified Verified
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Not accepting new clients
Sooner or later life challenges us all, and it's a relief to find someone in your corner. Whether you're worried, down, or overwhelmed by life's challenges, I will stay with you as we find your way through. I love my work and have successfully assisted people with many issues: depression & anxiety, early trauma, relationship issues, sexual & gender diversity, plus work & creativity. Online and phone sessions are easily available.
Sooner or later life challenges us all, and it's a relief to find someone in your corner. Whether you're worried, down, or overwhelmed by life's challenges, I will stay with you as we find your way through. I love my work and have successfully assisted people with many issues: depression & anxiety, early trauma, relationship issues, sexual & gender diversity, plus work & creativity. Online and phone sessions are easily available.
(949) 313-8431 View (949) 313-8431
Photo of Susan J Novak, PhD, Psychologist
Susan J Novak
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ladera Ranch, CA 92694
Whether you are struggling with depression, suffering with anxiety or panic attacks, wrestling with your marriage, coping with divorce, dealing with an illness or death, feeling controlled or humiliated by your significant other, or living with a history of sexual abuse or assault, I can help you work on these issues. With over 22 years of clinical experience, I have helped many people improve their lives. Find your solutions and start feeling better today!
Whether you are struggling with depression, suffering with anxiety or panic attacks, wrestling with your marriage, coping with divorce, dealing with an illness or death, feeling controlled or humiliated by your significant other, or living with a history of sexual abuse or assault, I can help you work on these issues. With over 22 years of clinical experience, I have helped many people improve their lives. Find your solutions and start feeling better today!
(949) 245-6733 View (949) 245-6733
Photo of Jami Johnson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jami Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Aliso Viejo, CA 92656  (Online Only)
Navigating life's challenges can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to do it alone. I am passionate about working with couples, individuals, and families to help them find their way through difficult times. With over 30 years of experience in substance abuse and 10 years as a licensed therapist, I bring a wealth of knowledge and empathy to my practice. My goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your feelings and challenges, and together, we can work towards finding solutions and achieving your goals. Your well-being is my priority, and I am committed to helping you navigate your journey.
Navigating life's challenges can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to do it alone. I am passionate about working with couples, individuals, and families to help them find their way through difficult times. With over 30 years of experience in substance abuse and 10 years as a licensed therapist, I bring a wealth of knowledge and empathy to my practice. My goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your feelings and challenges, and together, we can work towards finding solutions and achieving your goals. Your well-being is my priority, and I am committed to helping you navigate your journey.
(949) 506-3674 View (949) 506-3674
Photo of Jean Wolfe Powers Psychotherapist, MA, LMFT, CMC, ACC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jean Wolfe Powers Psychotherapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CMC, ACC
Verified Verified
Laguna Beach, CA 92651  (Online Only)
My extensive work with trauma, grief, and loss has earned worldwide attention spanning across four decades. Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and International Certified Life Coach, I work with individuals, families, and groups to transform mental and emotional challenges into experiences of thriving health and well-being. My early career defining work began in the 80’s alongside John Bradshaw and focused on addiction, recovery, and codependency. Together with a team of cutting-edge psychotherapists, I developed groundbreaking techniques for understanding trauma: when it starts, how it affects the brain, and how to heal.
My extensive work with trauma, grief, and loss has earned worldwide attention spanning across four decades. Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and International Certified Life Coach, I work with individuals, families, and groups to transform mental and emotional challenges into experiences of thriving health and well-being. My early career defining work began in the 80’s alongside John Bradshaw and focused on addiction, recovery, and codependency. Together with a team of cutting-edge psychotherapists, I developed groundbreaking techniques for understanding trauma: when it starts, how it affects the brain, and how to heal.
(805) 283-6695 View (805) 283-6695
Photo of Ari Shahabaldiny Sex Therapist Emdr, PsyD, LMFT, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ari Shahabaldiny Sex Therapist Emdr
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mission Viejo, CA 92692
I help my clients by empowering them to become in charge of their lives. My role is to illuminate the path to your ideal future. I believe YOU are the expert of your life and YOU are the only one who can create your ideal change. We all go through times when life's challenges seem to get the best of us. Problems in life are inevitable, and strong coping skills are tools we need in overcoming such difficult times. WE will find your path and get you back on track.
I help my clients by empowering them to become in charge of their lives. My role is to illuminate the path to your ideal future. I believe YOU are the expert of your life and YOU are the only one who can create your ideal change. We all go through times when life's challenges seem to get the best of us. Problems in life are inevitable, and strong coping skills are tools we need in overcoming such difficult times. WE will find your path and get you back on track.
(949) 829-4841 View (949) 829-4841
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.