Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Edgewater, CO

Photo of Sev Kiroglu - Sev Kiroglu - Mountain Thrive Counseling, LPCC
Sev Kiroglu - Mountain Thrive Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edgewater, CO 80214
I have experience working with adolescents and adults with anxiety, depression, bipolar needs, suicidal thinking, grief, trauma, criminal justice needs, LGBTQ+ related issues, ADHD, substance use and other concerns.
My aim is to foster a therapeutic space that is client-centered and supportive. As a client, you can expect to have a hands-on approach in your treatment by setting goals that you believe are important in creating the change you want for yourself. Each individual is unique and I do not believe in “one size fits all” therapy, so I will meet you where you are and work with you from there. I strive to empower clients and support their goals by developing and enhancing client skills using a variety of evidence-based interventions. I present a strength-based and solution-focused approach.
I have experience working with adolescents and adults with anxiety, depression, bipolar needs, suicidal thinking, grief, trauma, criminal justice needs, LGBTQ+ related issues, ADHD, substance use and other concerns.
My aim is to foster a therapeutic space that is client-centered and supportive. As a client, you can expect to have a hands-on approach in your treatment by setting goals that you believe are important in creating the change you want for yourself. Each individual is unique and I do not believe in “one size fits all” therapy, so I will meet you where you are and work with you from there. I strive to empower clients and support their goals by developing and enhancing client skills using a variety of evidence-based interventions. I present a strength-based and solution-focused approach.
(720) 943-7911 View (720) 943-7911
Photo of Khesed Wellness, LPC
Khesed Wellness
LPC
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Edgewater, CO 80214
We believe everyone deserves access to quality mental health therapy they can afford. Our team of therapists offer a variety of expertise, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, addiction and substance use, eating disorders, LGBTQ+ issues, faith, sexuality, boundary setting, identity exploration, and more. We offer individual, couples, and family sessions. Our goal is to match you with the therapist who is the best therapeutic, cultural and relational fit to meet your needs. We return all outreaches within one business day and match you with a therapist within one week so you don't have to wait for care. We're here for you.
We believe everyone deserves access to quality mental health therapy they can afford. Our team of therapists offer a variety of expertise, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, addiction and substance use, eating disorders, LGBTQ+ issues, faith, sexuality, boundary setting, identity exploration, and more. We offer individual, couples, and family sessions. Our goal is to match you with the therapist who is the best therapeutic, cultural and relational fit to meet your needs. We return all outreaches within one business day and match you with a therapist within one week so you don't have to wait for care. We're here for you.
(720) 844-8606 View (720) 844-8606
Photo of Rebecca Rottinger, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Rottinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Edgewater, CO 80214
You'll experience a caring presence when you meet with Rebecca. You'll be welcomed into a comfortable therapeutic space infused with compassion and a bit of humor. You'll be supported in feeling more in control of your life. Working in partnership with Rebecca, her clients can learn to manage anxiety and depression, address safety concerns, explore who they are, and work through trauma. Rebecca utilizes active listening and subscribes to CBT, EFT, and person-centered counseling. She often uses multiple tools and techniques to best match to each client.
You'll experience a caring presence when you meet with Rebecca. You'll be welcomed into a comfortable therapeutic space infused with compassion and a bit of humor. You'll be supported in feeling more in control of your life. Working in partnership with Rebecca, her clients can learn to manage anxiety and depression, address safety concerns, explore who they are, and work through trauma. Rebecca utilizes active listening and subscribes to CBT, EFT, and person-centered counseling. She often uses multiple tools and techniques to best match to each client.
(720) 893-8381 View (720) 893-8381
Photo of Julie Blumenfeld, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julie Blumenfeld
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Edgewater, CO 80214
When you meet with Julie, you'll feel safe, secure, and comfortable. You'll feel connected and accepted so you can be yourself. You'll enjoy the humor Julie brings to each session when appropriate. Julie's clients can overcome relational issues and general life struggles, such as interpersonal communication and life transitions, depression, anxiety, and trauma. Active listening and unconditional positive regard are some of the tools Julie uses, as well as providing a balance between education and process. She provides clients with the skills and tools that they need to work through their struggles, inspiring confidence in them.
When you meet with Julie, you'll feel safe, secure, and comfortable. You'll feel connected and accepted so you can be yourself. You'll enjoy the humor Julie brings to each session when appropriate. Julie's clients can overcome relational issues and general life struggles, such as interpersonal communication and life transitions, depression, anxiety, and trauma. Active listening and unconditional positive regard are some of the tools Julie uses, as well as providing a balance between education and process. She provides clients with the skills and tools that they need to work through their struggles, inspiring confidence in them.
(720) 790-3267 View (720) 790-3267
Photo of Raven Roth, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Raven Roth
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Edgewater, CO 80214
Raven Roth is dual-licensed as a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Addictions Counselor with more than 5 of experience specializing in life transitions, depression, anxiety and substance use disorders. Raven has experience treating individuals between the ages of 15 and 90 in utilizing a variety of therapeutic approaches and modalities such as Person Centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Attachment Theory. She has extensive experience working with a wide spectrum of individuals, couples, and other family dynamics.
Raven Roth is dual-licensed as a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Addictions Counselor with more than 5 of experience specializing in life transitions, depression, anxiety and substance use disorders. Raven has experience treating individuals between the ages of 15 and 90 in utilizing a variety of therapeutic approaches and modalities such as Person Centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Attachment Theory. She has extensive experience working with a wide spectrum of individuals, couples, and other family dynamics.
(720) 802-9717 View (720) 802-9717
Photo of Launa LaPorta, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Launa LaPorta
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Edgewater, CO 80214
Launa LaPorta, LPC, is an individual psychotherapist, who has been practicing since 2016. She graduated from The University of Denver, Denver CO, with a MA in Clinical Counseling Psychology. Launa believes in providing client centered, trauma informed, and psychodynamic therapy with a strong utilization of clinical interventions based on client's desired areas of growth and needs.
Launa LaPorta, LPC, is an individual psychotherapist, who has been practicing since 2016. She graduated from The University of Denver, Denver CO, with a MA in Clinical Counseling Psychology. Launa believes in providing client centered, trauma informed, and psychodynamic therapy with a strong utilization of clinical interventions based on client's desired areas of growth and needs.
(720) 802-3842 View (720) 802-3842
Photo of Valerie Gail Epstein-Johnson - Focal Point Art Therapy + Counseling, LPC, ATR-BC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Focal Point Art Therapy + Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edgewater, CO 80214
Are you alive, but not fully living? Do you depend on things you look forward to but dread others, without a sense of sustained contentment and meaning? Sometimes we feel a lack of core vitality when we are not guided by our values. Some build their whole lives on "should's", (eg. should be a manager, have kids, etc), expectations that reflect cultural priorities, without getting to know themselves enough to center their own unique passions, large and small. I will help you identify & center your core values, so that you can make practical changes to your lifestyle to reflect those values and relax into a life of meaning & joy.
Are you alive, but not fully living? Do you depend on things you look forward to but dread others, without a sense of sustained contentment and meaning? Sometimes we feel a lack of core vitality when we are not guided by our values. Some build their whole lives on "should's", (eg. should be a manager, have kids, etc), expectations that reflect cultural priorities, without getting to know themselves enough to center their own unique passions, large and small. I will help you identify & center your core values, so that you can make practical changes to your lifestyle to reflect those values and relax into a life of meaning & joy.
(720) 336-5852 View (720) 336-5852
Photo of Alyssandra Livingston-Shelburne, LPC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alyssandra Livingston-Shelburne
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
Edgewater, CO 80214  (Online Only)
Has your child has started behaving out of character leading you to wonder what they are going through? Perhaps they are struggling with feelings of sadness, anxiety, or anger. Play therapy offers an avenue to gain insight into what your child is struggling with and can help them gain confidence and explore their emotions in a safe environment where they can freely express themselves. I strive to build a therapeutic egalitarian relationship where we work together in order to help resolve the issues you and your family could be struggling with.
Has your child has started behaving out of character leading you to wonder what they are going through? Perhaps they are struggling with feelings of sadness, anxiety, or anger. Play therapy offers an avenue to gain insight into what your child is struggling with and can help them gain confidence and explore their emotions in a safe environment where they can freely express themselves. I strive to build a therapeutic egalitarian relationship where we work together in order to help resolve the issues you and your family could be struggling with.
(855) 910-9401 View (855) 910-9401
Photo of Monira Hallaway, LMSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Monira Hallaway
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Edgewater, CO 80214  (Online Only)
I help clients struggling with anxiety,trauma,disordered eating,stress and relationship issues, Feeling stuck or stagnate? My therapeutic style utilizes judgement free curiosity and compassion to promote awareness, growth, and healing. I am an eternal learner in the field, and life in general. My therapeutic approach utilizes both insight oriented and skill based techniques that are research and data driven, to empower you to make sustainable changes. Therapy is helpful both when we are in crisis, and when we are working to avoid crisis. You don’t have to live in your struggles or stay stuck, effective change and help are available.
I help clients struggling with anxiety,trauma,disordered eating,stress and relationship issues, Feeling stuck or stagnate? My therapeutic style utilizes judgement free curiosity and compassion to promote awareness, growth, and healing. I am an eternal learner in the field, and life in general. My therapeutic approach utilizes both insight oriented and skill based techniques that are research and data driven, to empower you to make sustainable changes. Therapy is helpful both when we are in crisis, and when we are working to avoid crisis. You don’t have to live in your struggles or stay stuck, effective change and help are available.
(720) 640-6809 View (720) 640-6809

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lia Sedgeley, LCSW, MAC, CAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lia Sedgeley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MAC, CAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80226
I specialize in anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use, and relationship issues.
Living life can be challenging. It's my goal to offer a safe place for individuals to focus on healing, revitalizing, and becoming aware of our inner strengths for personal growth. Depression, anxiety, and uncertainty are some of the most common and uncomfortable emotions we can experience. Together, we can join to reclaim the motivation, views, and joy you once had.
I specialize in anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use, and relationship issues.
Living life can be challenging. It's my goal to offer a safe place for individuals to focus on healing, revitalizing, and becoming aware of our inner strengths for personal growth. Depression, anxiety, and uncertainty are some of the most common and uncomfortable emotions we can experience. Together, we can join to reclaim the motivation, views, and joy you once had.
(303) 816-3881 View (303) 816-3881
Photo of Christine Lekas, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christine Lekas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211  (Online Only)
I work with people who are struggling with bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, self esteem, mood regulation, relationship issues, and communication issues in a collaborative and compassionate environment. In this supportive space you can learn how to navigate the roadblocks that life has presented you. My goal is to help you build the life you want to live by building awareness of yourself, breaking unwanted cycles, and teaching you how to to use coping skills to improve your quality of life. We are all capable of change, and my job is to help guide you through this process of growth and healing.
I work with people who are struggling with bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, self esteem, mood regulation, relationship issues, and communication issues in a collaborative and compassionate environment. In this supportive space you can learn how to navigate the roadblocks that life has presented you. My goal is to help you build the life you want to live by building awareness of yourself, breaking unwanted cycles, and teaching you how to to use coping skills to improve your quality of life. We are all capable of change, and my job is to help guide you through this process of growth and healing.
(720) 619-8275 View (720) 619-8275
Photo of Barry Fowler, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Barry Fowler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Wheat Ridge, CO 80034
I specialize in anxiety and depression, bipolar disorder, specific phobias and OCD behaviors, and borderline personality disorder.
Note: I also accept in-network Kaiser clients. I work to explore your full potential and to help you build the life you want to live. I seek to overcome the challenges of depression, anxiety and the personal road blocks that inevitably present themselves in life. Drawing on your inner wisdom, together we will discover the strength and fire that makes you uniquely you. As a compassionate therapist who will walk side by side with you along this path, I offer support and skill to guide you through the challenges, opportunities and transitions your life presents.
I specialize in anxiety and depression, bipolar disorder, specific phobias and OCD behaviors, and borderline personality disorder.
Note: I also accept in-network Kaiser clients. I work to explore your full potential and to help you build the life you want to live. I seek to overcome the challenges of depression, anxiety and the personal road blocks that inevitably present themselves in life. Drawing on your inner wisdom, together we will discover the strength and fire that makes you uniquely you. As a compassionate therapist who will walk side by side with you along this path, I offer support and skill to guide you through the challenges, opportunities and transitions your life presents.
(866) 441-2539 View (866) 441-2539
Photo of Bianca Massara, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bianca Massara
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CO 80214
My background includes: extensive work in Community Mental Health, working with a myriad of diverse adult populations; work with Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Adjustment Disorders, Self-Esteem, PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury, Bipolar Disorder, and specializing in those seeking Ketamine Assisted Therapy, Psychedelic Integration/Psychedelic Assisted Therapy.
Choosing to heal is a brave decision, the work can be difficult, and you don't have to do it alone. I believe it is an honor to hold space for others in their healing, and this space allows individuals to move through healing while feeling supported. I approach each client with humility, care, kindness, and openness. I take pride in creating and providing an inclusive space for others to feel safe, and to fully express their authentic self.
My background includes: extensive work in Community Mental Health, working with a myriad of diverse adult populations; work with Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Adjustment Disorders, Self-Esteem, PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury, Bipolar Disorder, and specializing in those seeking Ketamine Assisted Therapy, Psychedelic Integration/Psychedelic Assisted Therapy.
Choosing to heal is a brave decision, the work can be difficult, and you don't have to do it alone. I believe it is an honor to hold space for others in their healing, and this space allows individuals to move through healing while feeling supported. I approach each client with humility, care, kindness, and openness. I take pride in creating and providing an inclusive space for others to feel safe, and to fully express their authentic self.
(303) 951-4930 View (303) 951-4930
Photo of Front Desk - Solutions for Success Group, LPC, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Solutions for Success Group
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CO 80226  (Online Only)
Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder).
Welcome! We are creative and individualized in our approach, and we understand that a cookie cutter treatment plan is not the answer for you. We specialize in working with children, teenagers and adults with Autism and other developmental challenges while also supporting the family. We offer individual therapy, parent-child therapy, art therapy, and group therapy. No problem is too big or small, and we look forward to meeting you soon!
Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder).
Welcome! We are creative and individualized in our approach, and we understand that a cookie cutter treatment plan is not the answer for you. We specialize in working with children, teenagers and adults with Autism and other developmental challenges while also supporting the family. We offer individual therapy, parent-child therapy, art therapy, and group therapy. No problem is too big or small, and we look forward to meeting you soon!
(720) 408-7956 View (720) 408-7956
Photo of Lisa Griffiths - Center for Valued Living, PLLC, PsyD, LPC, LCSW, LMFT, LAC, Psychologist
Center for Valued Living, PLLC
Psychologist, PsyD, LPC, LCSW, LMFT, LAC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80204
Common Issues or Specialties: Adults, Children/Adolescents/Teens, Family, Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Trauma/PTSD, Bipolar, Relationship problems, Couples, EMDR, CBT, DBT, play therapy, work/school stress; Identity issues; panic, grief/loss, work comp.
We are a group of highly-qualified mental health therapists serving all over CO via telehealth and in-person (offices in Aurora). Our licensed therapists and supervised LPCC/SWC/intern providers take most insurances including Medicaid. See c4vl.com or photo gallery for details on our clinicians, & specialties, insurances. We are committed to anti-racist, neurodivergent-affirming, and GLBTQIA+ allied practice. We have providers who speak Spanish, French, and Russian. Hablamos Espanol tambien!
Common Issues or Specialties: Adults, Children/Adolescents/Teens, Family, Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Trauma/PTSD, Bipolar, Relationship problems, Couples, EMDR, CBT, DBT, play therapy, work/school stress; Identity issues; panic, grief/loss, work comp.
We are a group of highly-qualified mental health therapists serving all over CO via telehealth and in-person (offices in Aurora). Our licensed therapists and supervised LPCC/SWC/intern providers take most insurances including Medicaid. See c4vl.com or photo gallery for details on our clinicians, & specialties, insurances. We are committed to anti-racist, neurodivergent-affirming, and GLBTQIA+ allied practice. We have providers who speak Spanish, French, and Russian. Hablamos Espanol tambien!
(720) 262-5859 View (720) 262-5859
Photo of Charlie Mayer-Twomey - Mountain Thrive Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Charlie Mayer-Twomey - Mountain Thrive Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211
I specialize in mood related problems (depression, anxiety, bipolar), ADHD, trauma, grief, parent support and LGBTQ+ related issues.
Through support and encouragement, everyone can have the ability to create positive change and find a balance in their lives. A strength-based approach can allow for the opportunity to identify successes, reestablish healthy patterns and learn new ways to deal with everyday life. Together, we can create goals that you or your child hope to achieve.
I specialize in mood related problems (depression, anxiety, bipolar), ADHD, trauma, grief, parent support and LGBTQ+ related issues.
Through support and encouragement, everyone can have the ability to create positive change and find a balance in their lives. A strength-based approach can allow for the opportunity to identify successes, reestablish healthy patterns and learn new ways to deal with everyday life. Together, we can create goals that you or your child hope to achieve.
(720) 943-7911 View (720) 943-7911
Photo of Julie Torres, MA, LPCC
Julie Torres
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
I have experience working with psychosis, depression, anxiety, LGBTQ+, self-harm, bipolar, borderline, narcissism, sexual violence/abuse, Dissociative Identity Disorder, high trauma cases, and more.
Having worked at a mental health hospital and seeing clients from all walks of life, it's clear that there is no "one-size-fits-all" approach. In fact, I'd say quite the opposite; I believe therapy should be a collaborative experience with the client and the therapist. No one knows you like you do, and no matter your reasons for seeking therapy, I'm here to walk through that beautiful, and often difficult process with you.
I have experience working with psychosis, depression, anxiety, LGBTQ+, self-harm, bipolar, borderline, narcissism, sexual violence/abuse, Dissociative Identity Disorder, high trauma cases, and more.
Having worked at a mental health hospital and seeing clients from all walks of life, it's clear that there is no "one-size-fits-all" approach. In fact, I'd say quite the opposite; I believe therapy should be a collaborative experience with the client and the therapist. No one knows you like you do, and no matter your reasons for seeking therapy, I'm here to walk through that beautiful, and often difficult process with you.
(720) 807-8115 View (720) 807-8115
Photo of Emily L Gamm, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily L Gamm
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80212
My treatment focal areas include: concerns related to identity (gender, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, ability status, socioeconomic status), anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, anger, life transitions, grief and loss, and mild/moderate substance use.
I strongly believe the clinical relationship is a journey of co-created wellness. I strive to partner with each client from a holistic, client centered, and trauma informed approach, with special attention paid to aspects of identity and cultural responsiveness. It is an honor to walk alongside clients as they strive for wellness based on their self-defined goals.
My treatment focal areas include: concerns related to identity (gender, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, ability status, socioeconomic status), anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, anger, life transitions, grief and loss, and mild/moderate substance use.
I strongly believe the clinical relationship is a journey of co-created wellness. I strive to partner with each client from a holistic, client centered, and trauma informed approach, with special attention paid to aspects of identity and cultural responsiveness. It is an honor to walk alongside clients as they strive for wellness based on their self-defined goals.
(877) 458-1871 View (877) 458-1871
Photo of Jack Williams, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jack Williams
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211
I help adults with anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, adjustment issues, insomnia, ADHD, grief and loss, perfectionism, self-esteem, relationship struggles, panic, social anxiety, obsessive and compulsive disorder (OCD) and trauma.
Therapy gives us the chance to see ourselves, our relationships, and the world in a different way. Therapy also helps us build the skills necessary to achieve our goals. My approach to therapy is collaborative, goal oriented, and focused on building a strong therapeutic relationship that creates and environment of trust and respect that allows us to grow and solve problems together. Challenges always look the most difficult when you are facing them alone and I want to be there to help you when you’re facing your biggest challenges.
I help adults with anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, adjustment issues, insomnia, ADHD, grief and loss, perfectionism, self-esteem, relationship struggles, panic, social anxiety, obsessive and compulsive disorder (OCD) and trauma.
Therapy gives us the chance to see ourselves, our relationships, and the world in a different way. Therapy also helps us build the skills necessary to achieve our goals. My approach to therapy is collaborative, goal oriented, and focused on building a strong therapeutic relationship that creates and environment of trust and respect that allows us to grow and solve problems together. Challenges always look the most difficult when you are facing them alone and I want to be there to help you when you’re facing your biggest challenges.
(720) 784-5394 View (720) 784-5394
Photo of Esra Nutku-Bilir, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Esra Nutku-Bilir
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80211
Welcome! I work with post traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, Bipolar disorders, stress and anxiety related with acute or chronic medical illnesses, developmental issues of adulthood, relationship conflicts, couple's counseling, marriage health and conflict, life transition issues such as stress during college, retirement, change that comes with adverse life events. Men's and women's developmental, family, work and relationship issues and Seniors are also my interest areas. I work with clients age between 15-95 years old.
Welcome! I work with post traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, Bipolar disorders, stress and anxiety related with acute or chronic medical illnesses, developmental issues of adulthood, relationship conflicts, couple's counseling, marriage health and conflict, life transition issues such as stress during college, retirement, change that comes with adverse life events. Men's and women's developmental, family, work and relationship issues and Seniors are also my interest areas. I work with clients age between 15-95 years old.
(720) 776-2016 View (720) 776-2016

See more therapy options for Edgewater

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.