Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Highlands Ranch, CO

Photo of Julia Wilson - The Awakened Mind Institute (AMI), MA, LPC, Registered Psychotherapist
The Awakened Mind Institute (AMI)
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Highlands Ranch, CO 80129
At the Awakened Mind Institute (AMI), we have top specialists in the treatment of borderline personality disorder (BPD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD), bipolar depression (BD), couples and family therapy, eating disorders, and poly substance dependence. With over 16,000 hours of collective treatment time, we am among the most experienced and effective clinicians in the greater Denver area for these disorders.
At the Awakened Mind Institute (AMI), we have top specialists in the treatment of borderline personality disorder (BPD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD), bipolar depression (BD), couples and family therapy, eating disorders, and poly substance dependence. With over 16,000 hours of collective treatment time, we am among the most experienced and effective clinicians in the greater Denver area for these disorders.
(720) 463-1869 View (720) 463-1869
Photo of Ashanti Gosha, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashanti Gosha
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Highlands Ranch, CO 80129
I have experience with depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, bipolar disorder and more.
Hi, my name is Ashanti Gosha. Therapy can be a hard first step for many people. My style of therapy is a collaborative approach where you can be authentic in a safe space free of shame and judgement. We will work together with you as the driver to help navigate any mental health challenges with me offering insight and interventions that will help you along the way. I have an integrative approach to therapy which means I work with everyone to assess their goals and needs of therapy, and I combine skills from various treatment modalities that best fits client’s need.
I have experience with depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, bipolar disorder and more.
Hi, my name is Ashanti Gosha. Therapy can be a hard first step for many people. My style of therapy is a collaborative approach where you can be authentic in a safe space free of shame and judgement. We will work together with you as the driver to help navigate any mental health challenges with me offering insight and interventions that will help you along the way. I have an integrative approach to therapy which means I work with everyone to assess their goals and needs of therapy, and I combine skills from various treatment modalities that best fits client’s need.
(720) 459-9161 View (720) 459-9161
Photo of Brittany Edwards - Brittany Edwards Counseling, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brittany Edwards Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highlands Ranch, CO 80130
EMDR, Trauma, DBT, Bipolar 2, Chronic Illness, Relationship Struggles, Spiritual development, Enneagram.
Brittany Edwards Counseling serves a wide range of cliental; with three Master trained therapists we can offer a variety of therapies and services. Our price range is from $100-$150 for individual sessions and $60 for groups. We off both in-peron and virtual sessions, and have appointment availability Mondays-Saturdays. Each clinician has been Trauma certified and DBT certified and some of our specialties include chronic illness, spiritual growth, & EMDR. Contact us to be paired with the clinician that best meets your mental health needs, your finances and your schedule. We are honored to serve you and look forward to meeting you.
EMDR, Trauma, DBT, Bipolar 2, Chronic Illness, Relationship Struggles, Spiritual development, Enneagram.
Brittany Edwards Counseling serves a wide range of cliental; with three Master trained therapists we can offer a variety of therapies and services. Our price range is from $100-$150 for individual sessions and $60 for groups. We off both in-peron and virtual sessions, and have appointment availability Mondays-Saturdays. Each clinician has been Trauma certified and DBT certified and some of our specialties include chronic illness, spiritual growth, & EMDR. Contact us to be paired with the clinician that best meets your mental health needs, your finances and your schedule. We are honored to serve you and look forward to meeting you.
(303) 848-2315 View (303) 848-2315
Photo of Kathy Higgins - Kathy Higgins LPC LLC, MS, MA, LPC, EMDR, LAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathy Higgins LPC LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LPC, EMDR, LAC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Highlands Ranch, CO 80129
I provide psychotherapy for: Trauma & PTSD; Depression, Anxiety and Phobias, Bipolar Mood; Grief; ADHD, Healing from Abuse & Violence & Childhood Abuse; Self-Esteem; Substance Abuse including alcohol, narcotics and others.
I provide wholehearted, compassionate, non-judgmental counseling. I meet you where you are in your healing process while providing a safe, validating environment. I want to help you find your strengths and find empowerment as you achieve your goals and make significant changes in your life. I use evidence based approaches such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy DBT and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing EMDR.
I provide psychotherapy for: Trauma & PTSD; Depression, Anxiety and Phobias, Bipolar Mood; Grief; ADHD, Healing from Abuse & Violence & Childhood Abuse; Self-Esteem; Substance Abuse including alcohol, narcotics and others.
I provide wholehearted, compassionate, non-judgmental counseling. I meet you where you are in your healing process while providing a safe, validating environment. I want to help you find your strengths and find empowerment as you achieve your goals and make significant changes in your life. I use evidence based approaches such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy DBT and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing EMDR.
(720) 379-9712 View (720) 379-9712
Photo of Rich Thomas, MA, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rich Thomas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highlands Ranch, CO 80129  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with adults with various mental health concerns, such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD and trauma, and men's issues. During therapy, you’ll feel comforted by my calm and caring presence, empathy, unconditional positive regard, and congruence. Collaboratively, we will work to address the issues you’re struggling with, build a treatment plan tailored to your needs, and seek solutions for positive change.
I specialize in working with adults with various mental health concerns, such as depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD and trauma, and men's issues. During therapy, you’ll feel comforted by my calm and caring presence, empathy, unconditional positive regard, and congruence. Collaboratively, we will work to address the issues you’re struggling with, build a treatment plan tailored to your needs, and seek solutions for positive change.
(720) 712-2432 View (720) 712-2432
Photo of Dana Cohen, MA, LPCC, RYT, Counselor
Dana Cohen
Counselor, MA, LPCC, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highlands Ranch, CO 80126
I'm a specialized therapist who works primarily with neurodivergence, specifically ADHD, OCD, autism & borderline spectrums, and chronic depression, anxiety, & bipolar disorders. I also have expertise in complex trauma issues, often stemming from narcissistic family systems or relationship abuse. Many of my clients possess an excellent or above-average capacity for self-reflection and introspection. However, they feel their heightened self-awareness can sometimes backfire, magnifying feelings of powerlessness and frustration when they find themselves stuck in repetitive patterns and unable to make desired changes in their behaviors.
I'm a specialized therapist who works primarily with neurodivergence, specifically ADHD, OCD, autism & borderline spectrums, and chronic depression, anxiety, & bipolar disorders. I also have expertise in complex trauma issues, often stemming from narcissistic family systems or relationship abuse. Many of my clients possess an excellent or above-average capacity for self-reflection and introspection. However, they feel their heightened self-awareness can sometimes backfire, magnifying feelings of powerlessness and frustration when they find themselves stuck in repetitive patterns and unable to make desired changes in their behaviors.
(720) 807-5153 View (720) 807-5153
Photo of Rachel Rife - Silver Linings Counseling, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Silver Linings Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highlands Ranch, CO 80129  (Online Only)
Welcome to Silver Linings Counseling! We offer therapeutic services to individuals suffering from a wide array of mental health issues. Our goal is to provide support, empathy, and guidance while utilizing a non-judgmental and client-centered approach to therapy. We specialize in the following issues: Trauma (EMDR-focused), Depression and Anxiety, End of Life, Grief and Bereavement, Caregiving, Chronic Illness, Moving to a Facility, Significant Life Changes, Decreased Physical Strength and Ambulation, and Chronic Pain.
Welcome to Silver Linings Counseling! We offer therapeutic services to individuals suffering from a wide array of mental health issues. Our goal is to provide support, empathy, and guidance while utilizing a non-judgmental and client-centered approach to therapy. We specialize in the following issues: Trauma (EMDR-focused), Depression and Anxiety, End of Life, Grief and Bereavement, Caregiving, Chronic Illness, Moving to a Facility, Significant Life Changes, Decreased Physical Strength and Ambulation, and Chronic Pain.
(866) 773-5190 View (866) 773-5190
Photo of Sondra Sabourin, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sondra Sabourin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Highlands Ranch, CO 80129  (Online Only)
Life is messy! Are you longing to hear the words "Clean Up Aisle 7"? Let me assure you there is hope! Many of us struggle with anxiety and depression, grief and loss, trauma/abuse and codependency. Life is filled with all sorts of issues including family-of-origin issues, identity issues as well as boundary and relational issues. Often, we labor under these struggles and issues only to find ourselves overwhelmed by guilt and shame. It's time for a new beginning! You are not alone. Take that first step. And I'll bring the bucket!
Life is messy! Are you longing to hear the words "Clean Up Aisle 7"? Let me assure you there is hope! Many of us struggle with anxiety and depression, grief and loss, trauma/abuse and codependency. Life is filled with all sorts of issues including family-of-origin issues, identity issues as well as boundary and relational issues. Often, we labor under these struggles and issues only to find ourselves overwhelmed by guilt and shame. It's time for a new beginning! You are not alone. Take that first step. And I'll bring the bucket!
(303) 590-3412 View (303) 590-3412
Photo of Jean Marie Miller, PhD, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jean Marie Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highlands Ranch, CO 80129  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Washington, a Clinical Supervisor, an educator and a researcher. My background includes work with clients in private practice, community mental health, and higher education settings. I offer counseling, coaching, and consulting services. These services are for individuals, couples, groups, or organizations. As an experienced educator and researcher, I also facilitate webinars, trainings, and professional development workshops.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Washington, a Clinical Supervisor, an educator and a researcher. My background includes work with clients in private practice, community mental health, and higher education settings. I offer counseling, coaching, and consulting services. These services are for individuals, couples, groups, or organizations. As an experienced educator and researcher, I also facilitate webinars, trainings, and professional development workshops.
(720) 637-1384 View (720) 637-1384
Photo of Lynnette Cooper, MA, NCC, LPC, CMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lynnette Cooper
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC, CMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Highlands Ranch, CO 80126  (Online Only)
Life can be SO hard, but it can get better! Struggling with life or a relationship? Are you struggling with ANXIETY, depression, or a "transition" from empty-nest, the pain of divorce, parenting issues, loneliness, purpose, and other life-stressors? I was a child of divorce, a stay-at-home mom for 20 years before becoming a counselor, and married since 1983. I work with all couples struggling to stay together and find themselves drifting apart. I also work with parenting issues and teen life struggles. My office is a SAFE place to work through the issues of life that get us all down! Let's start!
Life can be SO hard, but it can get better! Struggling with life or a relationship? Are you struggling with ANXIETY, depression, or a "transition" from empty-nest, the pain of divorce, parenting issues, loneliness, purpose, and other life-stressors? I was a child of divorce, a stay-at-home mom for 20 years before becoming a counselor, and married since 1983. I work with all couples struggling to stay together and find themselves drifting apart. I also work with parenting issues and teen life struggles. My office is a SAFE place to work through the issues of life that get us all down! Let's start!
(720) 928-3601 View (720) 928-3601
Photo of Camille L. Reich, PhD, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Camille L. Reich
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Highlands Ranch, CO 80129
COUPLES, FAMILY, CHILD and INDIVIDUAL THERAPY. True Happiness and Stability Stems from the Quality of our Significant Relationships! I work from a strength-based, solution-focused, and systemic or relational orientation, all are evidence-based approaches. I focus on people's strengths and possibilities while addressing their real life difficulties. I also practice child-centered play therapy and provide personality, relationship (couple) and career assessments. I believe in a holistic approach to the therapeutic process that incorporates biological, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions empowering a person or family towards mastering life to its fullest. I look forward to consulting with you!
COUPLES, FAMILY, CHILD and INDIVIDUAL THERAPY. True Happiness and Stability Stems from the Quality of our Significant Relationships! I work from a strength-based, solution-focused, and systemic or relational orientation, all are evidence-based approaches. I focus on people's strengths and possibilities while addressing their real life difficulties. I also practice child-centered play therapy and provide personality, relationship (couple) and career assessments. I believe in a holistic approach to the therapeutic process that incorporates biological, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions empowering a person or family towards mastering life to its fullest. I look forward to consulting with you!
(303) 747-4067 View (303) 747-4067
Photo of Paul Steinke, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Paul Steinke
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Highlands Ranch, CO 80126
Stuck? Depressed? Directionless? Want to get closer to your partner? Just discovered an affair? Dealing with trauma? I am passionate about helping individuals and couples who want to live differently take those first steps towards healing, wholeness and connection in their lives and relationships. Feel like your relationship is on a roller coaster or about to crash and burn? Are you frustrated with the way things are in your life but unsure what to do? Taking the first step towards seeing a counselor can be scary and daunting, it takes courage just to look and seek someone out. Change happens when courage and support come together.
Stuck? Depressed? Directionless? Want to get closer to your partner? Just discovered an affair? Dealing with trauma? I am passionate about helping individuals and couples who want to live differently take those first steps towards healing, wholeness and connection in their lives and relationships. Feel like your relationship is on a roller coaster or about to crash and burn? Are you frustrated with the way things are in your life but unsure what to do? Taking the first step towards seeing a counselor can be scary and daunting, it takes courage just to look and seek someone out. Change happens when courage and support come together.
(720) 588-2005 View (720) 588-2005
Photo of Melanie Morris, MS, LAC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melanie Morris
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LAC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highlands Ranch, CO 80129
Finding someone to assist you on your journey to peace and happiness can be challenging. I am here to help. I have training in addictions and professional counseling. I have experience working with co-occurring disorders. I've work with individuals, couples and families. I work with people in and out of the justice system. Those dealing with depression, anxiety, addiction or childhood trauma. Using rational emotive behavioral techniques I can help you process through these issues and develop coping skills to support your emotional and mental well-being while learning two key important factors forgiveness and grace.
Finding someone to assist you on your journey to peace and happiness can be challenging. I am here to help. I have training in addictions and professional counseling. I have experience working with co-occurring disorders. I've work with individuals, couples and families. I work with people in and out of the justice system. Those dealing with depression, anxiety, addiction or childhood trauma. Using rational emotive behavioral techniques I can help you process through these issues and develop coping skills to support your emotional and mental well-being while learning two key important factors forgiveness and grace.
(720) 386-4063 View (720) 386-4063
Photo of Emily M Peña, Pre-Licensed Professional
Emily M Peña
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Highlands Ranch, CO 80129  (Online Only)
Welcome to my profile! I would first like to commend you for taking an important step to bettering your mental health. I hope I can be a partner in your journey to fulfilling your goals. Working with clients, my aim is to co-create goals that help move you forward and help you come into a better relationship with yourself and others. I emphasize the values of compassion, authenticity and unconditional positive regard. All of your parts are welcome in our sessions and I believe there are no bad parts, just ones that carry burdens from the past.
Welcome to my profile! I would first like to commend you for taking an important step to bettering your mental health. I hope I can be a partner in your journey to fulfilling your goals. Working with clients, my aim is to co-create goals that help move you forward and help you come into a better relationship with yourself and others. I emphasize the values of compassion, authenticity and unconditional positive regard. All of your parts are welcome in our sessions and I believe there are no bad parts, just ones that carry burdens from the past.
(720) 782-6835 View (720) 782-6835
Photo of Rachel Marie Ragsdale, MA, LPC, BCN, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachel Marie Ragsdale
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, BCN
Verified Verified
Highlands Ranch, CO 80129
Hi! If you are wanting to not only find relief from your symptoms, but you also want significant Iife change and the ability to reach your personal goals, you will enjoy working with Neuroptimize. I am Board Certified in Neurofeedback and use Brain Mapping and Neurofeedback to help identify areas of the brain that are under or overperforming! You don't have to let anxiety, stress, ADHD and trauma control your life! I want to give you hope. I am also a trained clinical counselor and bring many of those skills into each session. I strive to walk alongside everyone who enters my office with deep compassion for what brought you here.
Hi! If you are wanting to not only find relief from your symptoms, but you also want significant Iife change and the ability to reach your personal goals, you will enjoy working with Neuroptimize. I am Board Certified in Neurofeedback and use Brain Mapping and Neurofeedback to help identify areas of the brain that are under or overperforming! You don't have to let anxiety, stress, ADHD and trauma control your life! I want to give you hope. I am also a trained clinical counselor and bring many of those skills into each session. I strive to walk alongside everyone who enters my office with deep compassion for what brought you here.
(720) 463-1923 View (720) 463-1923
Photo of Susan L. Hollander, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan L. Hollander
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Highlands Ranch, CO 80126
It’s a new day and you’re disappointed the sun even came up…overwhelmed is the best word to describe you. Sadness waves through you. Sleep is elusive or sometimes you sleep too much. Worry engulfs you. You know exercise is supposed to help. But you don’t have an ounce of energy. The self-criticism that floats through your head can feel like it’s drowning you. You feel helpless and drained. No one knows you’re feeling this way. Sometimes you think that you should be able to pull yourself up by the bootstraps. But you just can’t. And you’ve tried so many different times. Everything you’ve tried has failed. Now what?
It’s a new day and you’re disappointed the sun even came up…overwhelmed is the best word to describe you. Sadness waves through you. Sleep is elusive or sometimes you sleep too much. Worry engulfs you. You know exercise is supposed to help. But you don’t have an ounce of energy. The self-criticism that floats through your head can feel like it’s drowning you. You feel helpless and drained. No one knows you’re feeling this way. Sometimes you think that you should be able to pull yourself up by the bootstraps. But you just can’t. And you’ve tried so many different times. Everything you’ve tried has failed. Now what?
(303) 900-5907 View (303) 900-5907
Photo of Megan Franklin, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan Franklin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Highlands Ranch, CO 80124  (Online Only)
Do you feel stuck, overwhelmed, stressed, unhappy? Are you experiencing a change, like becoming a new Mom, moving to a new state, getting a new job, or are worried about your drug and alcohol use? My passion is working with clients to overcome and manage life changes and transitions as seamlessly as possible. I understand there are challenges - fear of change is a given - yet there is nothing more healing than connecting in a safe, non-judgemental environment, where growth and potential are encouraged. I would consider myself priveledged to be a part of the your healing journey.
Do you feel stuck, overwhelmed, stressed, unhappy? Are you experiencing a change, like becoming a new Mom, moving to a new state, getting a new job, or are worried about your drug and alcohol use? My passion is working with clients to overcome and manage life changes and transitions as seamlessly as possible. I understand there are challenges - fear of change is a given - yet there is nothing more healing than connecting in a safe, non-judgemental environment, where growth and potential are encouraged. I would consider myself priveledged to be a part of the your healing journey.
(720) 961-8619 View (720) 961-8619
Photo of Drina Nibbe, MA, LMFT, LPC, AAMFTAS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Drina Nibbe
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPC, AAMFTAS
Verified Verified
Highlands Ranch, CO 80126  (Online Only)
I'm a Marriage and Family Therapist focused on Infant & Toddler Mental Health, whether the child is of average development or special needs, in single or multiple households. My mission is to guide parents of children ages 0-5 in uncovering their innate parenting powers to lead healthy, resilient, secure families with both confidence & serenity. Whereby, all parents create clarity and conscious choice in developing a family culture to raise children to their fullest potential in resilient families. Early relationships and parenting quality matter. Your baby's physical, social, emotional, behavioral, and brain development depend on it.
I'm a Marriage and Family Therapist focused on Infant & Toddler Mental Health, whether the child is of average development or special needs, in single or multiple households. My mission is to guide parents of children ages 0-5 in uncovering their innate parenting powers to lead healthy, resilient, secure families with both confidence & serenity. Whereby, all parents create clarity and conscious choice in developing a family culture to raise children to their fullest potential in resilient families. Early relationships and parenting quality matter. Your baby's physical, social, emotional, behavioral, and brain development depend on it.
(720) 924-4706 View (720) 924-4706
Photo of Kristy Davis, LCSW, CAC, III, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristy Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAC, III
Verified Verified
Highlands Ranch, CO 80130
I view counseling as walking down the hallway of life and trying to close the doors to one's past. As one walks down the hallway, one must walk into each room and decide what to hold on to and what to let go of. I understands that seeking therapy can be really difficult and enjoys using humor when appropriate. I am compassionate therapist at times but can be blunt. I do not want to waste your time or money therefore I will work hard with you to come up with a treatment plan that works best. My background includes working on a National Burn unit, ICU, ER, Psychiatric hospital, and managing a residential group home.
I view counseling as walking down the hallway of life and trying to close the doors to one's past. As one walks down the hallway, one must walk into each room and decide what to hold on to and what to let go of. I understands that seeking therapy can be really difficult and enjoys using humor when appropriate. I am compassionate therapist at times but can be blunt. I do not want to waste your time or money therefore I will work hard with you to come up with a treatment plan that works best. My background includes working on a National Burn unit, ICU, ER, Psychiatric hospital, and managing a residential group home.
(720) 744-3491 View (720) 744-3491
Photo of Amy McAllaster, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy McAllaster
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Highlands Ranch, CO 80129
Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, relationships/family issues, or if you lack meaning, purpose, or fufillment in life...there is hope. As a therapist I am committed to meeting you where you are and working with you to give you the help you need to live a healthy, balanced, satisfying life. I strive to provide warmth, understanding, and empathy as well as encouragement and support as you take the steps toward change and a more fulfilling life.
Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, relationships/family issues, or if you lack meaning, purpose, or fufillment in life...there is hope. As a therapist I am committed to meeting you where you are and working with you to give you the help you need to live a healthy, balanced, satisfying life. I strive to provide warmth, understanding, and empathy as well as encouragement and support as you take the steps toward change and a more fulfilling life.
(303) 835-0718 View (303) 835-0718
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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.