Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Playa Vista, CA

Photo of Cristina Wood, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cristina Wood
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Playa Vista, CA 90094  (Online Only)
You are constantly battling with your negative thoughts. The weight of PTSD, severe anxiety, and panic is an immense burden, one that shapes every moment of your day. Each thought that crosses your mind seems to carry a sharp edge, cutting into your peace and leaving you raw and exposed. You’ve spent so much time fighting against your anxiety, trying to suppress it, hide it, or force it away. This internal war has only amplified your suffering, creating a vicious cycle where the harder you push back, the stronger it seems to become. It's exhausting, isn’t it?
You are constantly battling with your negative thoughts. The weight of PTSD, severe anxiety, and panic is an immense burden, one that shapes every moment of your day. Each thought that crosses your mind seems to carry a sharp edge, cutting into your peace and leaving you raw and exposed. You’ve spent so much time fighting against your anxiety, trying to suppress it, hide it, or force it away. This internal war has only amplified your suffering, creating a vicious cycle where the harder you push back, the stronger it seems to become. It's exhausting, isn’t it?
(310) 359-9382 View (310) 359-9382
Photo of Erin Bishop - Erin Bishop JD MFT, JD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Erin Bishop JD MFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, JD, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Playa Vista, CA 90094
IT TAKES COURAGE to reach out for support and guidance when we feel lost, distressed, confused or uncertain. My goal is to meet you - in whatever emotional state you find yourself - with empathy and acceptance, and provide a safe, caring and consistent therapeutic relationship in which we collaborate on identifying and moving toward the CHANGES AND GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES that matter most to you. I have worked with clients since 2010, tailoring the counseling experience to each individual or couple's unique strengths and needs and drawing from a wide range of psychological theories and healing modalities. My approach is also informed by my PERSONAL EXPERIENCE being treated for major depression and anxiety. NO EMOTIONAL CHALLENGE IS TOO BIG TO WORK ON, and it would be my privilege to accompany you on your journey toward a healthier, more satisfying life.
IT TAKES COURAGE to reach out for support and guidance when we feel lost, distressed, confused or uncertain. My goal is to meet you - in whatever emotional state you find yourself - with empathy and acceptance, and provide a safe, caring and consistent therapeutic relationship in which we collaborate on identifying and moving toward the CHANGES AND GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES that matter most to you. I have worked with clients since 2010, tailoring the counseling experience to each individual or couple's unique strengths and needs and drawing from a wide range of psychological theories and healing modalities. My approach is also informed by my PERSONAL EXPERIENCE being treated for major depression and anxiety. NO EMOTIONAL CHALLENGE IS TOO BIG TO WORK ON, and it would be my privilege to accompany you on your journey toward a healthier, more satisfying life.
(424) 361-0216 View (424) 361-0216
Photo of Leanne R. Miller, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Leanne R. Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Playa Vista, CA 90094
Do you find yourself struggling to make decisions? Perhaps you feel like you keep repeating the same mistakes, or you may just desire some form of relief from your thoughts and/or feelings? Life can be complicated and sometimes working with a therapist can help. Hi! My name is Dr. Leanne Miller and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in both California and New York. I specialize in working with teens, young adults, adults, and couples. My goal is to meet the client where they are at emotionally in order to build a strong, trusting relationship in a safe and judgment free environment.
Do you find yourself struggling to make decisions? Perhaps you feel like you keep repeating the same mistakes, or you may just desire some form of relief from your thoughts and/or feelings? Life can be complicated and sometimes working with a therapist can help. Hi! My name is Dr. Leanne Miller and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in both California and New York. I specialize in working with teens, young adults, adults, and couples. My goal is to meet the client where they are at emotionally in order to build a strong, trusting relationship in a safe and judgment free environment.
(424) 264-2203 View (424) 264-2203
Photo of Marcela Rondani, MA, LMFT, CEDS, PsyD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marcela Rondani
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CEDS, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Playa Vista, CA 90094
I believe that psychotherapy can be a tool to help someone to increase their self-awareness and promote healing and reparation to the life's pain and struggles. If you would like someone on your side to the new journey of rediscovering who you are and who you want to be, that is my goal. To provide support through this new path with the objective that life will unfold with more joy and happiness.
I believe that psychotherapy can be a tool to help someone to increase their self-awareness and promote healing and reparation to the life's pain and struggles. If you would like someone on your side to the new journey of rediscovering who you are and who you want to be, that is my goal. To provide support through this new path with the objective that life will unfold with more joy and happiness.
(310) 933-3406 View (310) 933-3406
Photo of Leigh Hall, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Leigh Hall
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Playa Vista, CA 90094  (Online Only)
Anxiety, sadness, and stress can be immobilizing, and current world events seem overwhelming for many of us, leading to feelings of helplessness and despair. These emotions are normal reactions to abnormal times, but just knowing that isn't always enough. Most of us could use some extra support right now. Whether you need a nonjudgmental listener who can help you make sense of your feelings; someone to assist you in adding to your repertoire of effective coping mechanisms; or a coach who can illuminate, and gently push you to change, thought and behavior patterns that may be contributing to keeping you "stuck," therapy can help.
Anxiety, sadness, and stress can be immobilizing, and current world events seem overwhelming for many of us, leading to feelings of helplessness and despair. These emotions are normal reactions to abnormal times, but just knowing that isn't always enough. Most of us could use some extra support right now. Whether you need a nonjudgmental listener who can help you make sense of your feelings; someone to assist you in adding to your repertoire of effective coping mechanisms; or a coach who can illuminate, and gently push you to change, thought and behavior patterns that may be contributing to keeping you "stuck," therapy can help.
(424) 334-2430 View (424) 334-2430
Photo of Veronica Cisneros, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Veronica Cisneros
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Playa Vista, CA 90094
High-achieving women often face the challenge of balancing a demanding career with a fulfilling marriage and effective parenting. You need strategies to manage stress, stop endless arguments, prioritize your goals, and feel validated. You deserve to thrive at work, at home, and in your personal life, without sacrificing your dreams and energy. As a mother of three with over 24 years of marriage and 10 plus years of experience, owner of Outside The Norm Counseling, and host of the Empowered and Unapologetic podcast, I am dedicated to helping you build a lasting legacy for your family.
High-achieving women often face the challenge of balancing a demanding career with a fulfilling marriage and effective parenting. You need strategies to manage stress, stop endless arguments, prioritize your goals, and feel validated. You deserve to thrive at work, at home, and in your personal life, without sacrificing your dreams and energy. As a mother of three with over 24 years of marriage and 10 plus years of experience, owner of Outside The Norm Counseling, and host of the Empowered and Unapologetic podcast, I am dedicated to helping you build a lasting legacy for your family.
(909) 402-3341 View (909) 402-3341
Photo of Cari Coulam - LAT Psychosocial Rehabilitation , LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
LAT Psychosocial Rehabilitation
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Playa Vista, CA 90094
Our ideal client is someone who wants to learn how to manage their mental health, gain self-confidence, find direction, increase independence, and ultimately re-engage in meaningful pursuits. It is someone who wants to become successful in their living, working, learning and social environments. We believe everyone can learn to live well!
Our ideal client is someone who wants to learn how to manage their mental health, gain self-confidence, find direction, increase independence, and ultimately re-engage in meaningful pursuits. It is someone who wants to become successful in their living, working, learning and social environments. We believe everyone can learn to live well!
(424) 532-7734 View (424) 532-7734
Photo of Sarah Alkayali, MA, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Sarah Alkayali
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Playa Vista, CA 90094  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I'm a bilingual therapist who provides EMDR therapy and Flash EMDR Technique for children, adolescents, and adults. I have a passion for helping individuals and families thrive, and my journey informs my approach, I was born and raised in Baghdad, Iraq, and moved to the States at the age of 17. This unique perspective allows me to bring empathy and understanding to my work as I understand the ebbs and flows of life's transitions; I've been there, I understand! I know each person's story is different, and I’m here to listen to yours and support you on your journey toward healing and growth. Please don't hesitate to reach out!
I'm a bilingual therapist who provides EMDR therapy and Flash EMDR Technique for children, adolescents, and adults. I have a passion for helping individuals and families thrive, and my journey informs my approach, I was born and raised in Baghdad, Iraq, and moved to the States at the age of 17. This unique perspective allows me to bring empathy and understanding to my work as I understand the ebbs and flows of life's transitions; I've been there, I understand! I know each person's story is different, and I’m here to listen to yours and support you on your journey toward healing and growth. Please don't hesitate to reach out!
(310) 361-2721 View (310) 361-2721
Photo of Erik Anderson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Erik Anderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Playa Vista, CA 90094
Reaching out to a therapist isn’t easy. It can be especially difficult for those who have tried therapy and been disappointed. Perhaps the therapy process felt too passive, and you felt unsupported. Or maybe you didn’t “click” with your therapist, and you left feeling misunderstood. Trying again after an unfulfilling experience takes tremendous courage. If any of this resonates with you, I’d love to help. Together, we can reflect on what has worked and not worked for you, and collaborate to make our work together helpful.
Reaching out to a therapist isn’t easy. It can be especially difficult for those who have tried therapy and been disappointed. Perhaps the therapy process felt too passive, and you felt unsupported. Or maybe you didn’t “click” with your therapist, and you left feeling misunderstood. Trying again after an unfulfilling experience takes tremendous courage. If any of this resonates with you, I’d love to help. Together, we can reflect on what has worked and not worked for you, and collaborate to make our work together helpful.
(562) 276-2165 View (562) 276-2165

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Susan Kimberly Gilliam, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Kimberly Gilliam
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90089
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in relationships, divorce, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and personality disorders. I enjoy working with both women and men. Instead of fixing problems in therapy, I believe in welcoming problems as opportunities for growth and awareness. I enjoy helping clients access their own internal resources to develop self-healing practices outside of the therapy office walls. I believe that therapy can be a useful mirror to help us learn about ourselves, to be able to make adjustments to heal and improve our lives.
I specialize in relationships, divorce, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and personality disorders. I enjoy working with both women and men. Instead of fixing problems in therapy, I believe in welcoming problems as opportunities for growth and awareness. I enjoy helping clients access their own internal resources to develop self-healing practices outside of the therapy office walls. I believe that therapy can be a useful mirror to help us learn about ourselves, to be able to make adjustments to heal and improve our lives.
(951) 546-4076 View (951) 546-4076
Photo of Davis Lo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Davis Lo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071  (Online Only)
I have worked with various age groups from teens to older adults that struggle with psychosis, anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar, and social issues.
Do you feel stuck or lost? Almost like no matter what you do you cannot get out of your current situation? Are you having difficulty coping? Sometimes life happens and it can be overwhelming to deal with everything. Do you need someone who will listen, be compassionate, and non judgemental? Well look no further! By working together, your life can be easier. You will be able to identify your stressors, thought patterns, and challenges that gets in your way of moving forward in life.
I have worked with various age groups from teens to older adults that struggle with psychosis, anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar, and social issues.
Do you feel stuck or lost? Almost like no matter what you do you cannot get out of your current situation? Are you having difficulty coping? Sometimes life happens and it can be overwhelming to deal with everything. Do you need someone who will listen, be compassionate, and non judgemental? Well look no further! By working together, your life can be easier. You will be able to identify your stressors, thought patterns, and challenges that gets in your way of moving forward in life.
(562) 566-3553 View (562) 566-3553
Photo of Alexcis Grushinski, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexcis Grushinski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90012  (Online Only)
I am licensed in Minnesota and California. Currently taking private pay clients in both states. I can take Aetna and Optum in Minnesota. I can also take Aetna, and Cigna in California. Hello, I am Alexcis a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who helps people who long to feel stable and secure. Through my years of work, I have found that people want to live a well-rounded, healthy life. Unfortunately, barriers, keep them from moving forward and accomplishing their goals. Using supportive therapy and evidence-based practices I help people work through Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Grief, and Trauma.
I am licensed in Minnesota and California. Currently taking private pay clients in both states. I can take Aetna and Optum in Minnesota. I can also take Aetna, and Cigna in California. Hello, I am Alexcis a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who helps people who long to feel stable and secure. Through my years of work, I have found that people want to live a well-rounded, healthy life. Unfortunately, barriers, keep them from moving forward and accomplishing their goals. Using supportive therapy and evidence-based practices I help people work through Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Grief, and Trauma.
(210) 942-6842 View (210) 942-6842
Photo of Dusty McLeod, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dusty McLeod
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071
Still, my specialties include all forms of addiction, impulsive behaviors, hoarding behaviors, occupational stress, grief, anxiety, panic, OCD, depression, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders.
My therapeutic approach is nonjudgmental and client-centered. I want my clients to feel respected and supported, and by using an integrative method of various strategies and treatment modalities, I help you further develop your sense of choice and empowerment to improve your current situation and overall well-being.
Still, my specialties include all forms of addiction, impulsive behaviors, hoarding behaviors, occupational stress, grief, anxiety, panic, OCD, depression, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders.
My therapeutic approach is nonjudgmental and client-centered. I want my clients to feel respected and supported, and by using an integrative method of various strategies and treatment modalities, I help you further develop your sense of choice and empowerment to improve your current situation and overall well-being.
(661) 473-2303 View (661) 473-2303
Photo of Gabriella Kamara- Creative Therapist, MA, APCC, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Gabriella Kamara- Creative Therapist
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, APCC, NCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90026
My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, mood disorders, highly sensitive people, bipolar spectrum, trauma, ADHD, neurodiversity, expressive arts, substance abuse, all ages, harm reduction and education.
Being constantly in the trenches with your mental health without the right help, knowledge, or support can feel like a helpless battle. Using an integrative, creative and direct approach to therapy, my work aims to meet you in the darkness; rolling up my sleeves and joining you in the mud. Together, we will work together to get you free of the hole you find yourself in. As a therapist, I am known for both my compassionate wisdom and ability to get directly to the heart of the struggle- helping guide you towards your goals and dreams. Using a combination of top down and bottom up approaches, we will work together to find healing.
My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, mood disorders, highly sensitive people, bipolar spectrum, trauma, ADHD, neurodiversity, expressive arts, substance abuse, all ages, harm reduction and education.
Being constantly in the trenches with your mental health without the right help, knowledge, or support can feel like a helpless battle. Using an integrative, creative and direct approach to therapy, my work aims to meet you in the darkness; rolling up my sleeves and joining you in the mud. Together, we will work together to get you free of the hole you find yourself in. As a therapist, I am known for both my compassionate wisdom and ability to get directly to the heart of the struggle- helping guide you towards your goals and dreams. Using a combination of top down and bottom up approaches, we will work together to find healing.
(213) 466-1480 View (213) 466-1480
Photo of Lanikai Clouse, PsyD, Psychologist
Lanikai Clouse
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90065
"I work with patients that are dealing with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, varying addictions, co-dependency, sexuality, gender identity, trauma, bipolar, stage of life/adjustment issues and relationship challenges.
"With almost 20 years clinical experience, I specialize in providing treatment tailored for individuals and couples who recognize that there is something interfering with their ability to function or enjoy their daily life. Utilizing a variety of techniques, I help my patients identify their immediate needs and their long-term goals. I work with both the first-time therapy patient as well as with those that have experience in the therapeutic process. I believe that we desire purpose and connection. I assist in exploring life's choices to improve clarity, relationships and an overall state of well-being."
"I work with patients that are dealing with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, varying addictions, co-dependency, sexuality, gender identity, trauma, bipolar, stage of life/adjustment issues and relationship challenges.
"With almost 20 years clinical experience, I specialize in providing treatment tailored for individuals and couples who recognize that there is something interfering with their ability to function or enjoy their daily life. Utilizing a variety of techniques, I help my patients identify their immediate needs and their long-term goals. I work with both the first-time therapy patient as well as with those that have experience in the therapeutic process. I believe that we desire purpose and connection. I assist in exploring life's choices to improve clarity, relationships and an overall state of well-being."
(626) 344-9985 View (626) 344-9985
Photo of Marina Skegin-Sipes, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marina Skegin-Sipes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90096
My wide ranged experience offers expertise in the following areas of therapy: Individual Therapy, Marriage/Couples Counseling, Relationship Issues, Work/Personal Life Balance, Anxiety and Stress Management, Dealing with Loss Grief Counseling, Divorce Recovery, Life Transitions, Parenting Issues. In over 20 years, I worked in psychiatric hospital settings, outpatient Day Treatment Programs, adolescent residential placements, and private practice supporting patients diagnosed with Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorder, different types of Schizophrenia, Borderline Personality, Dual Diagnoses, and more
My wide ranged experience offers expertise in the following areas of therapy: Individual Therapy, Marriage/Couples Counseling, Relationship Issues, Work/Personal Life Balance, Anxiety and Stress Management, Dealing with Loss Grief Counseling, Divorce Recovery, Life Transitions, Parenting Issues. In over 20 years, I worked in psychiatric hospital settings, outpatient Day Treatment Programs, adolescent residential placements, and private practice supporting patients diagnosed with Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorder, different types of Schizophrenia, Borderline Personality, Dual Diagnoses, and more
(818) 308-1205 View (818) 308-1205
Photo of Esme Ordonez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Esme Ordonez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071  (Online Only)
Whether you're navigating postpartum depression, anxiety, relationship trauma, bipolar disorder, body ima.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and a clinical psychology doctoral candidate, dedicated to supporting individuals, couples, and families through various challenges. Rooted in deep compassion and empathy, my practice addresses trauma, anxiety, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression, and eating disorders.
Whether you're navigating postpartum depression, anxiety, relationship trauma, bipolar disorder, body ima.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and a clinical psychology doctoral candidate, dedicated to supporting individuals, couples, and families through various challenges. Rooted in deep compassion and empathy, my practice addresses trauma, anxiety, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression, and eating disorders.
(424) 282-1749 View (424) 282-1749
Photo of Mary Sowah-Quaye, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Sowah-Quaye
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90033
My name is Mary Sowah-Quaye, and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I provide psychotherapy and counseling for adults 18 and older. I've worked in many different settings with individuals and families who have a variety of personal issues such as depression/anxiety, bipolar, stress, family problems, and relationships issues. My approach combines person centered, cognitive behavioral therapies and motivational interviewing and mindfulness.
My name is Mary Sowah-Quaye, and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I provide psychotherapy and counseling for adults 18 and older. I've worked in many different settings with individuals and families who have a variety of personal issues such as depression/anxiety, bipolar, stress, family problems, and relationships issues. My approach combines person centered, cognitive behavioral therapies and motivational interviewing and mindfulness.
(909) 671-1835 View (909) 671-1835
Photo of Jessica 'gonji' Lee, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica 'gonji' Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90026  (Online Only)
I work with people to claim internal power, and to take charge of your own story, regardless of your age. I have a special passion working with children, teens and their families as they navigate the unpredictable terrain of school, relationships, and identity development. I have worked extensively with youth, adults, and QTIBIPOC folks on life transitions, anxiety, panic, depression, trauma, bipolar, neurodivergence (ADHD and autism), psychosis, mood swings, and relationship issues. My style of therapy is not passive, we will set concrete goals and I'll help you build the skills to achieve them.
I work with people to claim internal power, and to take charge of your own story, regardless of your age. I have a special passion working with children, teens and their families as they navigate the unpredictable terrain of school, relationships, and identity development. I have worked extensively with youth, adults, and QTIBIPOC folks on life transitions, anxiety, panic, depression, trauma, bipolar, neurodivergence (ADHD and autism), psychosis, mood swings, and relationship issues. My style of therapy is not passive, we will set concrete goals and I'll help you build the skills to achieve them.
(213) 325-1393 View (213) 325-1393
Photo of Sandy Peace, PsyD, Psychologist
Sandy Peace
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90071  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
If you are ready for change in your life therapy is a great catalyst! I am an integrative therapist utilizing a variety of modalities tailored to individuals', partners', and groups' needs: mindfulness, somatic, CBT, DBT, EMDR, brief psychodynamic, existential, humanistic, and relational. I work with a wide range of presenting concerns such as: identity development, life transitions, relationship enhancement, empowered communication, family issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar, personality disorders, addiction, sexuality, sexual orientation, gender identity, polyamory/open relationships.
If you are ready for change in your life therapy is a great catalyst! I am an integrative therapist utilizing a variety of modalities tailored to individuals', partners', and groups' needs: mindfulness, somatic, CBT, DBT, EMDR, brief psychodynamic, existential, humanistic, and relational. I work with a wide range of presenting concerns such as: identity development, life transitions, relationship enhancement, empowered communication, family issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar, personality disorders, addiction, sexuality, sexual orientation, gender identity, polyamory/open relationships.
(707) 329-3338 View (707) 329-3338

See more therapy options for Playa Vista

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.