Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Central East Denver, Denver, CO

Photo of Rachel Calderon, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Calderon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Central East Denver, Denver, CO 80220  (Online Only)
I predominantly work with trauma, Intergenerational trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, race related trauma, caregiver support and with those in the LGBT+ community.
Welcome ! I have been a therapist for 11 years and truly enjoy the work I do. I hope to provide a non-judgmental and supportive environment as you process and learn evidence based, mental health skills. I love to work with clients of all backgrounds and value cultural humility in the therapeutic setting, above all else. I use an intersectional, empowerment, and trauma informed approach in my work with a strong emphasis on psychoeducation. I am formally trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
I predominantly work with trauma, Intergenerational trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, race related trauma, caregiver support and with those in the LGBT+ community.
Welcome ! I have been a therapist for 11 years and truly enjoy the work I do. I hope to provide a non-judgmental and supportive environment as you process and learn evidence based, mental health skills. I love to work with clients of all backgrounds and value cultural humility in the therapeutic setting, above all else. I use an intersectional, empowerment, and trauma informed approach in my work with a strong emphasis on psychoeducation. I am formally trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
(720) 594-2451 View (720) 594-2451
Photo of Lisa Kerscher, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Kerscher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central East Denver, Denver, CO 80220
I work with adults, couples and families. My goal is to help you find a place of calm and stability so you can identify your strengths and access your own solutions. I specialize in helping individuals and couples find and sustain healthy habits and improve interpersonal relationships through increased coping and communication skills. I work with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar and borderline personality disorder as well as issues of dependency, life transitions, grief and loss, relationship issues and self esteem.
I work with adults, couples and families. My goal is to help you find a place of calm and stability so you can identify your strengths and access your own solutions. I specialize in helping individuals and couples find and sustain healthy habits and improve interpersonal relationships through increased coping and communication skills. I work with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar and borderline personality disorder as well as issues of dependency, life transitions, grief and loss, relationship issues and self esteem.
(720) 961-2503 View (720) 961-2503
Photo of Kristin N Gearhart, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristin N Gearhart
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central East Denver, Denver, CO 80220
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy in my work with depression, bipolar disorder and for managing the many life issues we all face.
I specialize in treating trauma/PTSD, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety,parenting and relationship issues, military issues and personality disorders. I enjoy working with people of all ages, in individual, family and couples counseling and have experience working with military members and their families.
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy in my work with depression, bipolar disorder and for managing the many life issues we all face.
I specialize in treating trauma/PTSD, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety,parenting and relationship issues, military issues and personality disorders. I enjoy working with people of all ages, in individual, family and couples counseling and have experience working with military members and their families.
(720) 809-7815 View (720) 809-7815
Photo of Linda Mazuranic, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Linda Mazuranic
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central East Denver, Denver, CO 80220  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Congratulations, you've just taken the first step - reaching out... Working out problems on your own can be tough. Change is sometimes painful, but can be liberating. We can work together to find solutions that work for you. It's true that if you don't change something ... nothing will change. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor and have helped people create solutions for over 20 years. I have experience with life transitions (divorce, grief, job loss or change), depression, trauma, substance abuse, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety, and PTSD. Credentialed for Denver, Aurora, and Pueblo counties for Medicaid.
Congratulations, you've just taken the first step - reaching out... Working out problems on your own can be tough. Change is sometimes painful, but can be liberating. We can work together to find solutions that work for you. It's true that if you don't change something ... nothing will change. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor and have helped people create solutions for over 20 years. I have experience with life transitions (divorce, grief, job loss or change), depression, trauma, substance abuse, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety, and PTSD. Credentialed for Denver, Aurora, and Pueblo counties for Medicaid.
(573) 232-1845 View (573) 232-1845
Photo of Jeffrey Boscoe - Boscoe-Huffman Wellness Center, PsyD, Psychologist
Boscoe-Huffman Wellness Center
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Central East Denver, Denver, CO 80220
Dr. Jeff Boscoe-Huffman and Dr. Scott Boscoe-Huffman treat children, adolescents, adults, and families. We provide individual, group and family therapy as well as psychological evaluations, psychosexual evaluations, crisis debriefings, consultation, and supervision. Treatment includes Play Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, DBT, EMDR and Trauma Focused CBT. We treat a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, anger, parental divorce/separation, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Conduct Disorder, ADHD, low self-esteem, emotional/physical/sexual abuse, academic performance and behavior issues, suicidal ideation, mood disorder( including Bipolar Disorder), thought disorder, PTSD, Boderline Personality Disorder and Asperger's Disorder.
Dr. Jeff Boscoe-Huffman and Dr. Scott Boscoe-Huffman treat children, adolescents, adults, and families. We provide individual, group and family therapy as well as psychological evaluations, psychosexual evaluations, crisis debriefings, consultation, and supervision. Treatment includes Play Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, DBT, EMDR and Trauma Focused CBT. We treat a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, anger, parental divorce/separation, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Conduct Disorder, ADHD, low self-esteem, emotional/physical/sexual abuse, academic performance and behavior issues, suicidal ideation, mood disorder( including Bipolar Disorder), thought disorder, PTSD, Boderline Personality Disorder and Asperger's Disorder.
(303) 900-5392 View (303) 900-5392
Photo of Kim Colna, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kim Colna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central East Denver, Denver, CO 80220
Kim Colna is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 12 years of experience providing evidence based mental health services to children, adults and families to include diagnostic assessment, individual, family, and group therapy. Kim uses a variety of individualized treatment modalities to include, but not limited to CBT, ERP, ACT, DBT, Play Therapy, family systems, and strengths based treatment to treat a wide range of mental health symptoms and conditions to include but not limited to, Anxiety, OCD, ADHD, Behavioral Dysregulation, Trauma/PTSD, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Conversion Disorders and Psychosis.
Kim Colna is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 12 years of experience providing evidence based mental health services to children, adults and families to include diagnostic assessment, individual, family, and group therapy. Kim uses a variety of individualized treatment modalities to include, but not limited to CBT, ERP, ACT, DBT, Play Therapy, family systems, and strengths based treatment to treat a wide range of mental health symptoms and conditions to include but not limited to, Anxiety, OCD, ADHD, Behavioral Dysregulation, Trauma/PTSD, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Conversion Disorders and Psychosis.
(970) 825-1096 View (970) 825-1096
Photo of Justin Malkin - Littleton Counseling, LLC, MA, LPC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Littleton Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Central East Denver, Denver, CO 80220
Others specialties include Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), Family Counseling, High Risk Adolescents, Couples Counseling, Adjustment Issues, Affective Disorder, Parenting Issues, Phobias, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Bipolar and other Mood Disorders, Career Counseling as well as being able to understand and manage everyday stressors.
Littleton Counseling, LLC offers teletherapy services and provides state-of-the-art, quality psychotherapy from highly qualified Masters' Level counseling professionals who who strive to build strong theraputic relationships while working with adolescents, adults, and families. Mr. Malkin enjoys and had been extremely successful assisting individuals experiencing self harming behaviors as well as suicidal ideation and trauma. Both telecommunication and online services are also available the have been approved and comply with Dora as well as Hippa guidelines.
Others specialties include Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), Family Counseling, High Risk Adolescents, Couples Counseling, Adjustment Issues, Affective Disorder, Parenting Issues, Phobias, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Bipolar and other Mood Disorders, Career Counseling as well as being able to understand and manage everyday stressors.
Littleton Counseling, LLC offers teletherapy services and provides state-of-the-art, quality psychotherapy from highly qualified Masters' Level counseling professionals who who strive to build strong theraputic relationships while working with adolescents, adults, and families. Mr. Malkin enjoys and had been extremely successful assisting individuals experiencing self harming behaviors as well as suicidal ideation and trauma. Both telecommunication and online services are also available the have been approved and comply with Dora as well as Hippa guidelines.
(720) 915-4850 View (720) 915-4850
Photo of Darin J. Wallis, PhD, LMFT, LCSW, CACIII, Marriage & Family Therapist
Darin J. Wallis
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, LCSW, CACIII
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Central East Denver, Denver, CO 80220
I use couples therapy and family therapy to address anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, psychotic disorders, and paranormal phenomenon.
My name is Dr. Darin Wallis & I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist & a Certified Addictions Counselor in Metro-Denver. My practice focuses on helping people in couples therapy, family therapy , & working with individuals, couples and families with their relationships, their mental health, as well as substance abuse problems. I am a compassionate and committed therapist who is dedicated to helping others achieve satisfaction with their relationships. I can help you! Couples therapy, marital therapy, & family therapy are my specialties, along with a unique expertise working with families experiencing paranormal phenomenon.
I use couples therapy and family therapy to address anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, psychotic disorders, and paranormal phenomenon.
My name is Dr. Darin Wallis & I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist & a Certified Addictions Counselor in Metro-Denver. My practice focuses on helping people in couples therapy, family therapy , & working with individuals, couples and families with their relationships, their mental health, as well as substance abuse problems. I am a compassionate and committed therapist who is dedicated to helping others achieve satisfaction with their relationships. I can help you! Couples therapy, marital therapy, & family therapy are my specialties, along with a unique expertise working with families experiencing paranormal phenomenon.
(303) 900-7218 View (303) 900-7218
Photo of Laura Travisano, MA, LPCC, ADDC
Laura Travisano
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC, ADDC
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Central East Denver, Denver, CO 80218
I believe true connection and healing are possible, and that therapy holds the capacity for profound transformation. We'll work within a supportive and accepting environment navigating areas relating to belonging, past trauma, owning the strength of sensitivity and confidence in self expression. I specialize in supporting identities and interests such as high sensitivity, low self esteem and self worth, spirituality, codependency, childhood emotional neglect, addiction, adult children and siblings of substance users, life transitions, anxiety, depression, loneliness, and Bipolar disorder.
I believe true connection and healing are possible, and that therapy holds the capacity for profound transformation. We'll work within a supportive and accepting environment navigating areas relating to belonging, past trauma, owning the strength of sensitivity and confidence in self expression. I specialize in supporting identities and interests such as high sensitivity, low self esteem and self worth, spirituality, codependency, childhood emotional neglect, addiction, adult children and siblings of substance users, life transitions, anxiety, depression, loneliness, and Bipolar disorder.
(720) 794-5869 View (720) 794-5869
Photo of Melissa Saltness, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa Saltness
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Central East Denver, Denver, CO 80220
I have served individuals and couples in the Denver metropolitan area for over 22 years. I use a holistic approach. I specialize in depression and other mood disorders, anxiety disorders and stress, trauma, bipolar disorder and personality disorders, as well as relationship issues and other life issues. I use a mindfulness-based cognitive-behavioral approach, along with various other techniques such as cognitive reappraisal to help my clients formulate and meet their goals for personal change. I try to be solution-focused, but also use depth psychology for long-term issues.
I have served individuals and couples in the Denver metropolitan area for over 22 years. I use a holistic approach. I specialize in depression and other mood disorders, anxiety disorders and stress, trauma, bipolar disorder and personality disorders, as well as relationship issues and other life issues. I use a mindfulness-based cognitive-behavioral approach, along with various other techniques such as cognitive reappraisal to help my clients formulate and meet their goals for personal change. I try to be solution-focused, but also use depth psychology for long-term issues.
(720) 730-2051 View (720) 730-2051
Photo of Jessica Kate Scherer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Kate Scherer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central East Denver, Denver, CO 80220  (Online Only)
I approach every session from a behavioral, familial, relationship, and queer perspective, and I see everything through a systemic lens. Whether you are dealing with interpersonal issues or societal concerns, I am here to help you navigate through life’s challenges. I work with adults of all gender identities, socio-economic backgrounds, sexual orientations, and ethnicities.
I approach every session from a behavioral, familial, relationship, and queer perspective, and I see everything through a systemic lens. Whether you are dealing with interpersonal issues or societal concerns, I am here to help you navigate through life’s challenges. I work with adults of all gender identities, socio-economic backgrounds, sexual orientations, and ethnicities.
(720) 740-3529 View (720) 740-3529
Photo of Angela J Andersen-Honnecke - Angela Andersen LPC, LLC, MA, LPC, Counselor
Angela Andersen LPC, LLC
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Central East Denver, Denver, CO 80220
Let's make progress toward the life you want! It's normal to have struggles, but through self-discovery - and learning about what matters to you most - we can identify any obstacles keeping you stuck and help you to move forward. With my support, many people have overcome challenges and experienced renewed happiness and vitality. I foster an atmosphere of compassion and openness to support you in developing your own self-compassion, present moment awareness, and valuable life changes.
Let's make progress toward the life you want! It's normal to have struggles, but through self-discovery - and learning about what matters to you most - we can identify any obstacles keeping you stuck and help you to move forward. With my support, many people have overcome challenges and experienced renewed happiness and vitality. I foster an atmosphere of compassion and openness to support you in developing your own self-compassion, present moment awareness, and valuable life changes.
(720) 744-3985 View (720) 744-3985
Photo of Michael Laughlin, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michael Laughlin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Central East Denver, Denver, CO 80220  (Online Only)
Talk...it's how we connect. That means the quality of therapy depends on the communication abilities and wisdom of the clinician. I value listening to my clients, truly “hearing” their life stories (because we are so much more than a single story), their struggles and their triumphs...always with compassion and acceptance, and often with some laughter (it's very therapeutic!). Then, together, we examine how these experiences shape how they meet today's goals and challenges. Further, we explore ways they can use these experiences and personal strengths to overcome anxiety, sadness, anger and conflict.
Talk...it's how we connect. That means the quality of therapy depends on the communication abilities and wisdom of the clinician. I value listening to my clients, truly “hearing” their life stories (because we are so much more than a single story), their struggles and their triumphs...always with compassion and acceptance, and often with some laughter (it's very therapeutic!). Then, together, we examine how these experiences shape how they meet today's goals and challenges. Further, we explore ways they can use these experiences and personal strengths to overcome anxiety, sadness, anger and conflict.
(303) 951-7871 View (303) 951-7871
Photo of Kevin Wilson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kevin Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Central East Denver, Denver, CO 80206
I have a decade of experience working in a variety of clinical settings including inpatient substance use treatment, outpatient therapy, community mental health, and as a first responder crisis therapist. We all experience crisis in our lives, both large and small, and my goal is to help navigate this distress while building resilience and expanding insight. If you desire tools to navigate life more effectively, build more meaningful relationships with others and deepen the connection to yourself, I would love to hear from you.
I have a decade of experience working in a variety of clinical settings including inpatient substance use treatment, outpatient therapy, community mental health, and as a first responder crisis therapist. We all experience crisis in our lives, both large and small, and my goal is to help navigate this distress while building resilience and expanding insight. If you desire tools to navigate life more effectively, build more meaningful relationships with others and deepen the connection to yourself, I would love to hear from you.
(720) 410-5264 View (720) 410-5264
Photo of Meaghan Hart, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Meaghan Hart
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Central East Denver, Denver, CO 80230
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, my approach is rooted in evidence-based practices delivered with curiosity, collaboration, and compassion. My passion lies in helping individuals reconnect with their inner strength and wisdom to navigate life with more clarity and confidence.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, my approach is rooted in evidence-based practices delivered with curiosity, collaboration, and compassion. My passion lies in helping individuals reconnect with their inner strength and wisdom to navigate life with more clarity and confidence.
(720) 802-8544 View (720) 802-8544
Photo of Kevin Fay, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kevin Fay
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Central East Denver, Denver, CO 80204  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and have worked in the mental health field since 2011. In this time, I have gained extensive experience with a variety of individuals and families, from children to adults, addressing a wide range of concerns. My main experience includes working with neurodiverse individuals on the autism spectrum. I also have experience with issues including ADHD, anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders. I value a variety of cultures and socioeconomic backgrounds and strive to have a diverse clientele.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and have worked in the mental health field since 2011. In this time, I have gained extensive experience with a variety of individuals and families, from children to adults, addressing a wide range of concerns. My main experience includes working with neurodiverse individuals on the autism spectrum. I also have experience with issues including ADHD, anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders. I value a variety of cultures and socioeconomic backgrounds and strive to have a diverse clientele.
(720) 961-2177 View (720) 961-2177
Photo of Melissa McCormick, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa McCormick
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Central East Denver, Denver, CO 80230
I recently moved to Denver from Orlando, Florida. I love hiking, painting, and my two cats, Tangerine and Gizmo! I am nonbinary (she/they pronouns) and queer. I am passionate about therapy and am here to help! I received both my bachelor’s and master’s degrees at University of Central Florida. I have worked in all levels of eating disorder treatment/care (inpatient, residential, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, and outpatient), and have worked with all levels of substance use disorder treatment. I volunteered for Orlando United Counseling (for those affected by the Pulse and Plaza shootings) for 3 years.
I recently moved to Denver from Orlando, Florida. I love hiking, painting, and my two cats, Tangerine and Gizmo! I am nonbinary (she/they pronouns) and queer. I am passionate about therapy and am here to help! I received both my bachelor’s and master’s degrees at University of Central Florida. I have worked in all levels of eating disorder treatment/care (inpatient, residential, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, and outpatient), and have worked with all levels of substance use disorder treatment. I volunteered for Orlando United Counseling (for those affected by the Pulse and Plaza shootings) for 3 years.
(720) 815-9644 View (720) 815-9644
Photo of Meredith E Guarco, LPC, MA, MBA, Counselor
Meredith E Guarco
Counselor, LPC, MA, MBA
Verified Verified
Central East Denver, Denver, CO 80230
Navigating mental health can be a tough journey, especially when societal norms or personal beliefs deem it as a taboo subject. In my practice, I specialize in supporting adults and teens who come from diverse cultural backgrounds, sexual orientations, and gender identities. I work with individuals facing trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. My goal is to provide a safe, judgement-free space for individuals to explore their struggles. Additionally, I offer support for women experiencing postpartum anxiety, depression, and infertility.
Navigating mental health can be a tough journey, especially when societal norms or personal beliefs deem it as a taboo subject. In my practice, I specialize in supporting adults and teens who come from diverse cultural backgrounds, sexual orientations, and gender identities. I work with individuals facing trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. My goal is to provide a safe, judgement-free space for individuals to explore their struggles. Additionally, I offer support for women experiencing postpartum anxiety, depression, and infertility.
(720) 740-0205 View (720) 740-0205
Photo of Stephen Reeder, MA, LPC, LPCC, CEDS-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stephen Reeder
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LPCC, CEDS-S, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Central East Denver, Denver, CO 80220  (Online Only)
Have you ever heard the saying "the mind is a wonderful servant, but a terrible master?" I can help you learn to not follow your every thought as if it is a command, and to be more connected to the present moment. Integrity, humility, benevolence, and community are the core values of my practice. As your therapist, I will help you identify your core values and what is most important to you. Once we know what is most important, we can nourish those areas while changing how you relate to unhelpful internal patterns. I believe therapy is about repairing relationships, whether to food, to your body, to others or with yourself.
Have you ever heard the saying "the mind is a wonderful servant, but a terrible master?" I can help you learn to not follow your every thought as if it is a command, and to be more connected to the present moment. Integrity, humility, benevolence, and community are the core values of my practice. As your therapist, I will help you identify your core values and what is most important to you. Once we know what is most important, we can nourish those areas while changing how you relate to unhelpful internal patterns. I believe therapy is about repairing relationships, whether to food, to your body, to others or with yourself.
(720) 790-4412 View (720) 790-4412
Photo of Alyssa Oland, PhD, Psychologist
Alyssa Oland
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Central East Denver, Denver, CO 80220
I have 19 yrs experience treating a range of conditions and concerns, including difficulty coping with medical conditions, adherence issues with medical recommendations, difficulty adjusting to medical and/or psychiatric diagnoses, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, grief and loss, behavioral challenges in children, ADHD, parenting challenges and stress, co-parenting issues, transitioning from youth to adulthood, academic and job stress, life stress, obsessive compulsive disorder, eating disorders, marital issues, and trauma. I also have experience conducting psychological testing for diagnostic clarification and treatment planning.
I have 19 yrs experience treating a range of conditions and concerns, including difficulty coping with medical conditions, adherence issues with medical recommendations, difficulty adjusting to medical and/or psychiatric diagnoses, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, grief and loss, behavioral challenges in children, ADHD, parenting challenges and stress, co-parenting issues, transitioning from youth to adulthood, academic and job stress, life stress, obsessive compulsive disorder, eating disorders, marital issues, and trauma. I also have experience conducting psychological testing for diagnostic clarification and treatment planning.
(720) 702-1693 x711 View (720) 702-1693 x711

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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.