Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Porter Ranch, CA
![Photo of Madison Dennis, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59b3d73b-39be-489c-ae62-d14c90b85275/2/320x400.jpeg)
Madison Dennis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Porter Ranch, CA 91326 (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working as a therapist in outpatient clinic and inpatient residential settings where I have treated adults, adolescents, couples, and families who were struggling with issues ranging from trauma to depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorders, substance use disorders, personality disorders, and disordered eating. I help individuals and families navigate challenges, heal, and create meaningful lives. For more information, please see my website: www.westcoastintegrative.com.
I have extensive experience working as a therapist in outpatient clinic and inpatient residential settings where I have treated adults, adolescents, couples, and families who were struggling with issues ranging from trauma to depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorders, substance use disorders, personality disorders, and disordered eating. I help individuals and families navigate challenges, heal, and create meaningful lives. For more information, please see my website: www.westcoastintegrative.com.
![Photo of Dawn Crugnale Ebner, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/82cdb9cf-a2b0-4ca3-ac99-559b5a35ac24/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dawn Crugnale Ebner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Porter Ranch, CA 91326 (Online Only)
Do you feel like you are walking on eggshells all the time and find yourself overthinking everything? You spend so much time trying to please others that you do not even know what you want anymore…and forget decision making! Every task takes so long you dread starting anything. Your to do list is getting longer and you feel angry and irritated with everyone. You feel people take advantage of you. You do not trust your own feelings, so you have given up even trying to ask for what you want. Even in the few times you express anger to someone, you find them talking you out of it. You wonder why you brought up the issue at all.
Do you feel like you are walking on eggshells all the time and find yourself overthinking everything? You spend so much time trying to please others that you do not even know what you want anymore…and forget decision making! Every task takes so long you dread starting anything. Your to do list is getting longer and you feel angry and irritated with everyone. You feel people take advantage of you. You do not trust your own feelings, so you have given up even trying to ask for what you want. Even in the few times you express anger to someone, you find them talking you out of it. You wonder why you brought up the issue at all.
![Photo of Caroline Kurkcuoglu - Caroline Kurkcuoglu MA MFT, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3a2767e1-6711-4182-a7dc-d4a7426411f2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Caroline Kurkcuoglu MA MFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Porter Ranch, CA 91326
You have taken the first step in your healing process which is awareness that you want to make a change in your life. Because only YOU have the power to create the life that feels peaceful, rewarding and meaningful to you. I applaud you for your courage to seek help. It is a privilege for me to work with you and to guide you in your journey. In 25+ years of my practice, I have experienced some of the most powerful changes that take place in the psychotherapeutic process. I believe everyone has the inner capacity to better themselves.
You have taken the first step in your healing process which is awareness that you want to make a change in your life. Because only YOU have the power to create the life that feels peaceful, rewarding and meaningful to you. I applaud you for your courage to seek help. It is a privilege for me to work with you and to guide you in your journey. In 25+ years of my practice, I have experienced some of the most powerful changes that take place in the psychotherapeutic process. I believe everyone has the inner capacity to better themselves.
![Photo of Frank Sanchez, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b5b8ad69-8e44-4e42-8e3f-cf132834ba7c/2/320x400.png)
Even the strongest people need help to work through some of life's more challenging problems. You may have noticed that you have been experiencing problems sleeping, problems in your relationships or problems functioning at work. Everyone has hurdles to overcome that sometimes include being weighed down by self-doubt, shame, worry, loneliness and only seeing what you did wrong. You may ask yourself “how can I continue like this”, well you don’t have to. It is possible to change and love your life.
Even the strongest people need help to work through some of life's more challenging problems. You may have noticed that you have been experiencing problems sleeping, problems in your relationships or problems functioning at work. Everyone has hurdles to overcome that sometimes include being weighed down by self-doubt, shame, worry, loneliness and only seeing what you did wrong. You may ask yourself “how can I continue like this”, well you don’t have to. It is possible to change and love your life.
![Photo of Nick Vetter - Nick Vetter Counseling, Therapy, Life Coaching, LMFT, MA, MBA, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b83d6a77-8e82-41d4-9d72-8468044cc9ab/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nick Vetter Counseling, Therapy, Life Coaching
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, MBA
Verified Verified
Porter Ranch, CA 91326
Nick Vetter Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist - LMFT #48867: I want to affirm, encourage and support you in your journey toward stability, integration, empowerment and success. Evening hours, Mon - Weds 5:30 pm - 8:30 pm. Free Parking in the rear of building or street. Call for further information! 818-835-0779, I'm looking forward to meeting with you soon! $75.00 / 50 minute sessions - Cash or check. If have an emergency situation please call 911. LAValleyCounseling.com / Peopletherapy.com. Also, my therapy is informed by a Judeo-Christian world view. No solicitors - also, please do not ask me to advertise your link.
Nick Vetter Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist - LMFT #48867: I want to affirm, encourage and support you in your journey toward stability, integration, empowerment and success. Evening hours, Mon - Weds 5:30 pm - 8:30 pm. Free Parking in the rear of building or street. Call for further information! 818-835-0779, I'm looking forward to meeting with you soon! $75.00 / 50 minute sessions - Cash or check. If have an emergency situation please call 911. LAValleyCounseling.com / Peopletherapy.com. Also, my therapy is informed by a Judeo-Christian world view. No solicitors - also, please do not ask me to advertise your link.
![Photo of Randy Christopher, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fe271c4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Randy Christopher
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Porter Ranch, CA 91326
None of us enter this world with a User's Manual. When something goes wrong in our lives, where can we turn for help? I sometimes think of psychotherapy as an IT helpdesk for mental health related "technical problems." My approach is kind and gentle; only in a warm and safe environment are we free explore our problems and develop solutions.
None of us enter this world with a User's Manual. When something goes wrong in our lives, where can we turn for help? I sometimes think of psychotherapy as an IT helpdesk for mental health related "technical problems." My approach is kind and gentle; only in a warm and safe environment are we free explore our problems and develop solutions.
![Photo of Sheree Lynne Jones-Pistol - Sheree Jones-Pistol, A MAFT Corporation, MA, LMFT, PPS, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e625a69-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sheree Jones-Pistol, A MAFT Corporation
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PPS
Verified Verified
Porter Ranch, CA 91326
Everyone experiences, at one time or another, difficulty interacting with others and coping with stressful events. We guide you through your challenges, assist you in relieving your stresses, and support you through your enlightenment process to ultimately solve your problems on your own and achieve your goals. "All negative emotions are caused by a disruption in the body's energy system" -- this is the foundation we incorporate in our work. We blend psychotherapy, spiritual beliefs, and Eastern philosophies to work toward healing, working with the entire person's energy system.
Everyone experiences, at one time or another, difficulty interacting with others and coping with stressful events. We guide you through your challenges, assist you in relieving your stresses, and support you through your enlightenment process to ultimately solve your problems on your own and achieve your goals. "All negative emotions are caused by a disruption in the body's energy system" -- this is the foundation we incorporate in our work. We blend psychotherapy, spiritual beliefs, and Eastern philosophies to work toward healing, working with the entire person's energy system.
Your healing is my sole focus. I am a licensed clinical psychologist who has lived in the area for 50 years. I have been in practice for two and a half decades providing * Psychotherapy that is respectful, solution-focused, goal-oriented, effective * Adolescents (16+), Adults, Elders, and families are welcome.* I also conduct court-ordered Forensic SVP Evaluations *
Your healing is my sole focus. I am a licensed clinical psychologist who has lived in the area for 50 years. I have been in practice for two and a half decades providing * Psychotherapy that is respectful, solution-focused, goal-oriented, effective * Adolescents (16+), Adults, Elders, and families are welcome.* I also conduct court-ordered Forensic SVP Evaluations *
![Photo of Lexington Magnuson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47404128-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lexington Magnuson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Porter Ranch, CA 91327
My background includes working with individuals who needed support when faced with depression, anxiety, dual diagnosis, trauma, addictive behaviors, codependency, domestic violence, grief & loss, life transitions, and interpersonal relationship issues. In addition to my being a clinical Psychotherapist, I am providing Life Coaching support. Life coaches help the clients they work with focus on identifying and moving towards personal and, at times, professional goals. Through focused coaching support, clients can learn healthy and helpful ways of navigating through challenges in creating a life they feel excited about.
My background includes working with individuals who needed support when faced with depression, anxiety, dual diagnosis, trauma, addictive behaviors, codependency, domestic violence, grief & loss, life transitions, and interpersonal relationship issues. In addition to my being a clinical Psychotherapist, I am providing Life Coaching support. Life coaches help the clients they work with focus on identifying and moving towards personal and, at times, professional goals. Through focused coaching support, clients can learn healthy and helpful ways of navigating through challenges in creating a life they feel excited about.
![Photo of Mark Sergi, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ddcc9333-18b8-4c66-88a9-cd6b1f0eda4e/2/320x400.jpeg)
You can overcome the challenges that you face today. Whether you are challenged by depression, anxiety, relationship problems, and/or another emotional health issue; counseling, specifically cognitive behavioral therapy, can help you overcome your mental health issues and transform yourself into the person you hope to become. I, Dr. Mark Sergi, have counseled adults, couples, and elders for over 20 years; helping hundreds of persons improve their emotional health and quality of life.
You can overcome the challenges that you face today. Whether you are challenged by depression, anxiety, relationship problems, and/or another emotional health issue; counseling, specifically cognitive behavioral therapy, can help you overcome your mental health issues and transform yourself into the person you hope to become. I, Dr. Mark Sergi, have counseled adults, couples, and elders for over 20 years; helping hundreds of persons improve their emotional health and quality of life.
![Photo of Dr. Andrew J Leone, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b794c08a-6d05-45e1-9a41-8ed62c6e62f5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Andrew J Leone
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Porter Ranch, CA 91326 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Just living in today’s world can be difficult and exhausting. Many of us feel as if we are just “getting by.” We all struggle with our mental health, from daily conflict with others, feeling frustrated or irritable, painful past experiences(trauma), struggles with work and family, and anxious thoughts. These issues can hinder our ability to heal and grow. We can all use help at times, even if we don’t know how to ask for it. I provide comprehensive support and direct feedback to help guide you through this difficult journey, to reach a path that leads to healing, understanding, acceptance, and resolution.
Just living in today’s world can be difficult and exhausting. Many of us feel as if we are just “getting by.” We all struggle with our mental health, from daily conflict with others, feeling frustrated or irritable, painful past experiences(trauma), struggles with work and family, and anxious thoughts. These issues can hinder our ability to heal and grow. We can all use help at times, even if we don’t know how to ask for it. I provide comprehensive support and direct feedback to help guide you through this difficult journey, to reach a path that leads to healing, understanding, acceptance, and resolution.
15 Second Videos
Dawn Crugnale Ebner
Lexington Magnuson
Natalie Anne Bologna
![Photo of Natalie Anne Bologna, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5233c69b-552e-4d44-b4be-c453050223d2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Natalie Anne Bologna
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Porter Ranch, CA 91326
You want to understand why you’re stuck, but more so, you want to learn how to move through it and grow. The hardest part is reaching out for someone to care – to find that you’re not alone in your pain and fear. The answers might seem far away and you can’t see the light at the end of the tunnel, wrestling with beasts of sadness, anxiousness, hopelessness, fear. Whether your relationship with your partner or child feels distant, or your view of yourself, your body, or your future seem bleak – you're ready to be un-stuck.
You want to understand why you’re stuck, but more so, you want to learn how to move through it and grow. The hardest part is reaching out for someone to care – to find that you’re not alone in your pain and fear. The answers might seem far away and you can’t see the light at the end of the tunnel, wrestling with beasts of sadness, anxiousness, hopelessness, fear. Whether your relationship with your partner or child feels distant, or your view of yourself, your body, or your future seem bleak – you're ready to be un-stuck.
![Photo of Grace Pendleton, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ef64de6-0bd5-4c13-87cc-97886fffee9c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Grace Pendleton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Porter Ranch, CA 91326
Do you have trouble saying no? Does it feel impossible to stay present? Want to dig deeper into the past or explore identity? Are you or your loved ones repeating behaviors or relationships and wishing you could break the cycle? Sometimes, we aren't sure what causes our distress, but we can sense we're not reaching our potential for health, happiness, or success. And even when we know the cause, change can still feel impossible. That's where I come in. My job is to listen without judgment, help you understand the root causes of your difficulties, and teach you practical tools to help change your life. I will also be honest with you.
Do you have trouble saying no? Does it feel impossible to stay present? Want to dig deeper into the past or explore identity? Are you or your loved ones repeating behaviors or relationships and wishing you could break the cycle? Sometimes, we aren't sure what causes our distress, but we can sense we're not reaching our potential for health, happiness, or success. And even when we know the cause, change can still feel impossible. That's where I come in. My job is to listen without judgment, help you understand the root causes of your difficulties, and teach you practical tools to help change your life. I will also be honest with you.
![Photo of Daniel Galimberti - Daniel Galimberti Ph.D., PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49cff165-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Daniel Galimberti Ph.D.
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Porter Ranch, CA 91326
Not accepting new clients
“MY EDUCATION, TRAINING, EXPERIENCE, AND WISDOM TO YOUR SERVICE” Dr. Galimberti has more than 20 years of successful clinical experience working with couples, individuals, children and families surrounding issues of depression, anxiety, PTSD, anger management, domestic violence, relationships, sexual dysfunctions, substance abuse, HDHD, and behavioral problems. Much of my practice focuses on people seeking support in improving self worth, increasing motivation and finding direction in life. My approach is tailored to the unique needs of the individuals and couples I work with.
“MY EDUCATION, TRAINING, EXPERIENCE, AND WISDOM TO YOUR SERVICE” Dr. Galimberti has more than 20 years of successful clinical experience working with couples, individuals, children and families surrounding issues of depression, anxiety, PTSD, anger management, domestic violence, relationships, sexual dysfunctions, substance abuse, HDHD, and behavioral problems. Much of my practice focuses on people seeking support in improving self worth, increasing motivation and finding direction in life. My approach is tailored to the unique needs of the individuals and couples I work with.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Bita Sanchez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c19423ec-b8bc-402e-985d-0190f1a646b6/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with people who are having difficulty with depression, anxiety, social anxiety, burnout, bipolar, relationship issues, PTSD and past trauma.
Hi there, I'm Bita. Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? are you struggling with anxiety and depression? do you have difficulty setting healthy boundaries, be more assertive and better communicate and express your thoughts and feelings with family members and others? are you struggling with self-esteem, low motivation, self-love and compassion? Do you feel burnout and overwhelm? I have been practicing as a therapist for the past 5 years.
I work with people who are having difficulty with depression, anxiety, social anxiety, burnout, bipolar, relationship issues, PTSD and past trauma.
Hi there, I'm Bita. Do you feel pulled in a million directions, unable to fit it all in? Are you struggling to keep up with your relationships, work and health? Is it hard to be kind to yourself? are you struggling with anxiety and depression? do you have difficulty setting healthy boundaries, be more assertive and better communicate and express your thoughts and feelings with family members and others? are you struggling with self-esteem, low motivation, self-love and compassion? Do you feel burnout and overwhelm? I have been practicing as a therapist for the past 5 years.
![Photo of Neda Levi, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/808a954b-b748-4efb-827e-b12972f54e6f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Neda Levi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Northridge, CA 91330 (Online Only)
In my 8 years of providing therapy, I have seen clients presenting with symptoms and diagnoses such as isolation, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, suicidal ideation, self-harm, trauma, schizophrenia, schizoaffective, PTSD, bipolar & borderline PD.
Living with depression and/or anxiety juxtaposed with a shaky sense of self, while one's childhood trauma is unknowingly being pushed aside, can be very overwhelming. Given the emotions that humans experience as they navigate their own unique worlds, these challenges can continue to permeate every avenue of one’s existence as they enter each life stage. Addressing strained relationships with primary caregivers & learning to reparent one’s self due to childhood neglect, can serve as the vehicle through which one is equipped with the tools necessary to provide themselves compassion & a foundation to create a life they've yearned for.
In my 8 years of providing therapy, I have seen clients presenting with symptoms and diagnoses such as isolation, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, suicidal ideation, self-harm, trauma, schizophrenia, schizoaffective, PTSD, bipolar & borderline PD.
Living with depression and/or anxiety juxtaposed with a shaky sense of self, while one's childhood trauma is unknowingly being pushed aside, can be very overwhelming. Given the emotions that humans experience as they navigate their own unique worlds, these challenges can continue to permeate every avenue of one’s existence as they enter each life stage. Addressing strained relationships with primary caregivers & learning to reparent one’s self due to childhood neglect, can serve as the vehicle through which one is equipped with the tools necessary to provide themselves compassion & a foundation to create a life they've yearned for.
![Photo of Rain Elizabeth Wald, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d95c13a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have sought additional trainings and have done extensive work with people suffering from unipolar and bipolar depression, anxiety and phobias, as well as PTSD, substance abuse, self esteem and relational issues.
Across the past eight years, I have worked with a multitude of people with a vast array of presenting issues. Regardless of whether you are suffering from depression, anxiety, substance abuse, low self-esteem or relational problems, I can help. I have a truly eclectic approach to therapy in that I will personalize each session to your needs when you come in the door, as I firmly believe empowerment and growth come from a genuine meeting between two people. I also feel that humor and self reflection are a great starting place for finding and building upon your strengths.
I have sought additional trainings and have done extensive work with people suffering from unipolar and bipolar depression, anxiety and phobias, as well as PTSD, substance abuse, self esteem and relational issues.
Across the past eight years, I have worked with a multitude of people with a vast array of presenting issues. Regardless of whether you are suffering from depression, anxiety, substance abuse, low self-esteem or relational problems, I can help. I have a truly eclectic approach to therapy in that I will personalize each session to your needs when you come in the door, as I firmly believe empowerment and growth come from a genuine meeting between two people. I also feel that humor and self reflection are a great starting place for finding and building upon your strengths.
![Photo of Alina Hetherman, MS, LMFT , Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42c3e7b2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Alina Hetherman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Northridge, CA 91325 (Online Only)
I specialize in working with adult individuals who are challenged by a variety of issues including relationship issues, abuse and neglect, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and bereavement. I have a genuine interest in helping people improve their mental and emotional health to have meaningful and healthy lives and social relationships. We truly are social beings and we all have the natural ability to create and nurture healthy social relationships.
I specialize in working with adult individuals who are challenged by a variety of issues including relationship issues, abuse and neglect, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and bereavement. I have a genuine interest in helping people improve their mental and emotional health to have meaningful and healthy lives and social relationships. We truly are social beings and we all have the natural ability to create and nurture healthy social relationships.
![Photo of Ludmila Zeltzer - Milla Zeltzer, Psy.D., PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/409f3d1d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
When you are standing at crossroad, overwhelmed by life's decisions, or feeling sad, disappointed and hopeless, engaging in a therapeutic relationship can offer a safe and nurturing space to work through the issues that are in your way. Therapy can provide a relief and free you up to reach for your dreams. I work from the perspective of Depth Psychology, searching below the surface, looking to help you understand your unconscious drives and motivations that steer your life in an unwanted direction.
When you are standing at crossroad, overwhelmed by life's decisions, or feeling sad, disappointed and hopeless, engaging in a therapeutic relationship can offer a safe and nurturing space to work through the issues that are in your way. Therapy can provide a relief and free you up to reach for your dreams. I work from the perspective of Depth Psychology, searching below the surface, looking to help you understand your unconscious drives and motivations that steer your life in an unwanted direction.
![Photo of Jackie A. Castro, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/03e8cb67-4b96-4d22-a0bf-8a8be57547cb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jackie A. Castro
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northridge, CA 91324
Constantly worried? Losing hope? Feel like you’re not good enough? These are most likely symptoms of deeper issues. Hi, I’m Jackie Castro, the Mama Trauma Therapist. I tend to see most psychological issues through a ‘trauma lens’. I believe that the way you were cared for during the first years of your life has everything to do with how you operate in the world now as an adult. Early childhood trauma can range from big traumas like physical, emotional or sexual abuse to smaller things that you may or may not even remember; but they all add up. It’s not as important to drudge up details of your past, but to understand your triggers.
Constantly worried? Losing hope? Feel like you’re not good enough? These are most likely symptoms of deeper issues. Hi, I’m Jackie Castro, the Mama Trauma Therapist. I tend to see most psychological issues through a ‘trauma lens’. I believe that the way you were cared for during the first years of your life has everything to do with how you operate in the world now as an adult. Early childhood trauma can range from big traumas like physical, emotional or sexual abuse to smaller things that you may or may not even remember; but they all add up. It’s not as important to drudge up details of your past, but to understand your triggers.
See more therapy options for Porter Ranch
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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.