Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Littleton, CO

Photo of Jay Ryser, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jay Ryser
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Littleton, CO 80122  (Online Only)
Struggling with depression or anxiety? Find yourself avoiding things rather than dealing with them? Find yourself beating yourself up on a regular basis? We can work on that. I have over 30 years of experience working with adults with depression and anxiety (mood disorders - major depression & bipolar and anxiety disorders - panic disorder, generalized anxiety, OCD, phobias, etc.). I tend to take a Here & Now approach, focusing on not just talking, but taking action to make changes. I'm only doing teletherapy currently.
Struggling with depression or anxiety? Find yourself avoiding things rather than dealing with them? Find yourself beating yourself up on a regular basis? We can work on that. I have over 30 years of experience working with adults with depression and anxiety (mood disorders - major depression & bipolar and anxiety disorders - panic disorder, generalized anxiety, OCD, phobias, etc.). I tend to take a Here & Now approach, focusing on not just talking, but taking action to make changes. I'm only doing teletherapy currently.
(720) 410-5399 View (720) 410-5399
Photo of J Lewis, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
J J Lewis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Littleton, CO 80127  (Online Only)
I work with adults and couples, specializing exclusively in Major Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Thought Disorders, Anxiety, Trauma, and PTSD. My education and training are thorough and diverse. My style is warm, kind, inquisitive, thoughtful, challenging, relational and engaging. The most important aspect in psychotherapy is the development of a strong therapeutic relationship that enables patients to explore the deeper issues causing symptoms: such as trauma, difficult relationships, losses, and grief. While at first glance, online therapy may seem less personal. However, I have found it as or more powerful than in-office work.
I work with adults and couples, specializing exclusively in Major Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Thought Disorders, Anxiety, Trauma, and PTSD. My education and training are thorough and diverse. My style is warm, kind, inquisitive, thoughtful, challenging, relational and engaging. The most important aspect in psychotherapy is the development of a strong therapeutic relationship that enables patients to explore the deeper issues causing symptoms: such as trauma, difficult relationships, losses, and grief. While at first glance, online therapy may seem less personal. However, I have found it as or more powerful than in-office work.
(970) 239-8496 View (970) 239-8496
Photo of Ashanti Gosha, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashanti Gosha
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Littleton, CO 80123
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 Lia Sedgeley, LCSW, MAC, CAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lia Sedgeley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MAC, CAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Littleton, CO 80127  (Online Only)
I specialize in anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use, and relationship issues.
Living life can be challenging. My passion is offering a safe place for individuals to focus on healing, revitalizing, and becoming aware of their inner strengths for personal growth. Depression, anxiety, and uncertainty are some of the most common and uncomfortable emotions we can experience. Together, we can 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. My passion is offering a safe place for individuals to focus on healing, revitalizing, and becoming aware of their inner strengths for personal growth. Depression, anxiety, and uncertainty are some of the most common and uncomfortable emotions we can experience. Together, we can reclaim the motivation, views, and joy you once had.
(303) 816-3881 View (303) 816-3881
Photo of Jana Briggs - Jana Briggs Counseling, LLC & Associates, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jana Briggs Counseling, LLC & Associates
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Littleton, CO 80120
Children, Teens, Adults, Couples & Families / Art & Play Therapy / Anxiety / Depression / Bipolar / Anger / ADHD / Disordered Eating / Body Image & Self-Esteem / Grief & Trauma / Self-Harm / LGBTQ+ / Parent Coaching / Life Change / Premarital & Marital / Communication / Divorce Adjustment / Med.
At JBC & Associates, our clinicians take a thoughtful, creative & collaborative approach to develop customized treatment plans. We prioritize every detail to ensure that your experience is truly exceptional. The JBC team is committed to providing a ‘boutique-style’ experience for our clients & their families. This means that individuals seeking mental health support will receive more tailored, intimate, and comprehensive treatment. A ‘boutique-style’ practice involves careful attention to detail to ensure a welcoming, comfortable, and personalized environment. It means receiving excellent, personalized services that you deserve.
Children, Teens, Adults, Couples & Families / Art & Play Therapy / Anxiety / Depression / Bipolar / Anger / ADHD / Disordered Eating / Body Image & Self-Esteem / Grief & Trauma / Self-Harm / LGBTQ+ / Parent Coaching / Life Change / Premarital & Marital / Communication / Divorce Adjustment / Med.
At JBC & Associates, our clinicians take a thoughtful, creative & collaborative approach to develop customized treatment plans. We prioritize every detail to ensure that your experience is truly exceptional. The JBC team is committed to providing a ‘boutique-style’ experience for our clients & their families. This means that individuals seeking mental health support will receive more tailored, intimate, and comprehensive treatment. A ‘boutique-style’ practice involves careful attention to detail to ensure a welcoming, comfortable, and personalized environment. It means receiving excellent, personalized services that you deserve.
(303) 900-5525 View (303) 900-5525
Photo of Natalie Van Note, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Natalie Van Note
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Littleton, CO 80123
Natalie Van Note, LPC Natalie Van Note is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado who has been practicing since 2000. She has an Undergraduate BBA in Marketing, Minor in Spanish from Iowa State University, a Master's degree in International Management from University of Denver, and a Master's degree in Counseling from Denver Seminary. Natalie's specialties include working with hard-to-treat panic disorder, OCD, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, and narcissism.
Natalie Van Note, LPC Natalie Van Note is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado who has been practicing since 2000. She has an Undergraduate BBA in Marketing, Minor in Spanish from Iowa State University, a Master's degree in International Management from University of Denver, and a Master's degree in Counseling from Denver Seminary. Natalie's specialties include working with hard-to-treat panic disorder, OCD, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, and narcissism.
(720) 669-7463 View (720) 669-7463
Photo of Dorothy R Sanchez, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dorothy R Sanchez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Littleton, CO 80128
My areas of interest and specialty include Relationship and Interpersonal Issues, Caregiver Support, Grief/Loss Issues, Sexual Abuse, Child/Parent Conflicts, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, and Bipolar Disorder.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with tweens, adolescents, couples, families, older adults and individuals. Those I work with receive exceptional mental health services which are individualized and culturally sensitive. Through both short and long-term therapy, I work collaboratively with clients to identify strengths which can improve their mental/emotional well-being and lead to happier, healthier, and more productive lives.
My areas of interest and specialty include Relationship and Interpersonal Issues, Caregiver Support, Grief/Loss Issues, Sexual Abuse, Child/Parent Conflicts, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, and Bipolar Disorder.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with tweens, adolescents, couples, families, older adults and individuals. Those I work with receive exceptional mental health services which are individualized and culturally sensitive. Through both short and long-term therapy, I work collaboratively with clients to identify strengths which can improve their mental/emotional well-being and lead to happier, healthier, and more productive lives.
(720) 580-5560 View (720) 580-5560
Photo of Whitney Frost - Peaceful Journies Counseling and Supervision, MA, LPC, NCC, PMH-C, MHA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Peaceful Journies Counseling and Supervision
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, PMH-C, MHA
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Littleton, CO 80120  (Online Only)
I am certified in DBT, Pregnancy & Postpartum Depression/Anxiety/Mood Disorders, Borderline Personality Disorder, anxiety, depression, and Bipolar Disorder.
My career began working in the community mental health which allowed me to gain vast experience&knowledge of various therapy skills&tools.My passion is helping women of all identities transition into their idea of motherhood gracefully.I am certified in treating disorders associated with the pregnancy/postpartum period, Personality Disorders, mood disorders, parenting concerns, life stressors, & women’s health concerns. I enjoy working with women of all ages&identities facing difficult life transitions. Now offering clinical supervision for LPC and LPCC in Colorado.
I am certified in DBT, Pregnancy & Postpartum Depression/Anxiety/Mood Disorders, Borderline Personality Disorder, anxiety, depression, and Bipolar Disorder.
My career began working in the community mental health which allowed me to gain vast experience&knowledge of various therapy skills&tools.My passion is helping women of all identities transition into their idea of motherhood gracefully.I am certified in treating disorders associated with the pregnancy/postpartum period, Personality Disorders, mood disorders, parenting concerns, life stressors, & women’s health concerns. I enjoy working with women of all ages&identities facing difficult life transitions. Now offering clinical supervision for LPC and LPCC in Colorado.
(970) 235-9019 View (970) 235-9019
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
Littleton, CO 80120
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 Rich Thomas, MA, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rich Thomas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Littleton, CO 80120  (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 Gary L Coats, PhD, Psychologist
Gary L Coats
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Littleton, CO 80128
Treatment is available for major depression, bipolar disorders and anxiety disorders .
I have acquired a wealth of professional and life experience in 30 years of helping people gain control of their addictions, anxiety, depression and explosive anger. Our initial goal in therapy will be to rapidly identify the source of the problem/pain and then create a treatment approach with healing and lasting solutions. This is therapy to discover, experience and build on your core strengths...therapy that will lead to deeper understanding and meaningful growth. The ultimate goal of our therapy is to be a highly transforming and fascinating process that nurtures healthy choices and new perspectives.
Treatment is available for major depression, bipolar disorders and anxiety disorders .
I have acquired a wealth of professional and life experience in 30 years of helping people gain control of their addictions, anxiety, depression and explosive anger. Our initial goal in therapy will be to rapidly identify the source of the problem/pain and then create a treatment approach with healing and lasting solutions. This is therapy to discover, experience and build on your core strengths...therapy that will lead to deeper understanding and meaningful growth. The ultimate goal of our therapy is to be a highly transforming and fascinating process that nurtures healthy choices and new perspectives.
(303) 900-7048 View (303) 900-7048
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
Littleton, CO 80128
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 Bianca Massara, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bianca Massara
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Littleton, CO 80123
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 Samantha Wogan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Wogan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Littleton, CO 80120  (Online Only)
I have been providing psychotherapy to individuals since 2016. I currently work with adults and I believe in using a strengths-based and person-centered approach to help empower clients to achieve their goals and make significant, positive changes in their lives. I provide a warm, open, and nonjudgemental space to explore and work through the problem or current circumstances. You will receive support, feedback, and suggestions from me as we work together for you to identify what you need within yourself to feel whole again.
I have been providing psychotherapy to individuals since 2016. I currently work with adults and I believe in using a strengths-based and person-centered approach to help empower clients to achieve their goals and make significant, positive changes in their lives. I provide a warm, open, and nonjudgemental space to explore and work through the problem or current circumstances. You will receive support, feedback, and suggestions from me as we work together for you to identify what you need within yourself to feel whole again.
(303) 529-8143 View (303) 529-8143
Photo of Taejin Kim, MC,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Taejin Kim
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
Littleton, CO 80121
Taejin Kim is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado who has been practicing since 2017. She has a Master of Arts in Counseling from Denver Seminary. Taejin believes that each client has their own strength and life goals. As your counselor she will help you uncover the key to your life’s success. Taejin comes from a diverse background, which makes her very capable of understanding your unique situation and can help you move forward. Taejin uses the following approaches in her counseling: Trauma Informed Care, Person-centered approach, Motivational Interviewing, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
Taejin Kim is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado who has been practicing since 2017. She has a Master of Arts in Counseling from Denver Seminary. Taejin believes that each client has their own strength and life goals. As your counselor she will help you uncover the key to your life’s success. Taejin comes from a diverse background, which makes her very capable of understanding your unique situation and can help you move forward. Taejin uses the following approaches in her counseling: Trauma Informed Care, Person-centered approach, Motivational Interviewing, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
(720) 952-7034 View (720) 952-7034
Photo of Katie Fosselius, LCSW,  LAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie Fosselius
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC
Verified Verified
Littleton, CO 80127
Katie Fosselius is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Colorado who has been practicing since 2001. She has a Master of Social Work and a Master of Theology. Katie is a person-centered, strengths based psychodynamic therapist with a flair for the somatic! What does that really mean? That she is here to focus on you. Katie is a curious soul and hopes to invite you to become curious about what your mind and body are communicating to you through the truth telling of your lived experience. She believes you are the expert of your life and is here to partner with you to take a safe and healthy dive into what is and isn't working.
Katie Fosselius is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Colorado who has been practicing since 2001. She has a Master of Social Work and a Master of Theology. Katie is a person-centered, strengths based psychodynamic therapist with a flair for the somatic! What does that really mean? That she is here to focus on you. Katie is a curious soul and hopes to invite you to become curious about what your mind and body are communicating to you through the truth telling of your lived experience. She believes you are the expert of your life and is here to partner with you to take a safe and healthy dive into what is and isn't working.
(720) 815-9073 View (720) 815-9073
Photo of Tracey Rumsey, MA, Registered Psychotherapist
Tracey Rumsey
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
Littleton, CO 80120
Many of the women and men I see want a compassionate ear and competent guidance relative to the challenges they are facing – and this is what I have provided to countless individuals of all ages (from teens to adults). I have lived long enough to know life simply does not go as planned, and we all have to navigate complications or heartaches we did not see coming. I work from a place of deep compassion to help you better understand the way forward through this current place that prompted you to find me. A quick FREE phone consultation can ensure we are a great fit.
Many of the women and men I see want a compassionate ear and competent guidance relative to the challenges they are facing – and this is what I have provided to countless individuals of all ages (from teens to adults). I have lived long enough to know life simply does not go as planned, and we all have to navigate complications or heartaches we did not see coming. I work from a place of deep compassion to help you better understand the way forward through this current place that prompted you to find me. A quick FREE phone consultation can ensure we are a great fit.
(720) 713-3573 View (720) 713-3573
Photo of Denyse Breeden, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Denyse Breeden
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Littleton, CO 80128
Waitlist for new clients
Denyse specializes in working with adults dealing with unresolved trauma and anxiety. She offers a personalized approach tailored to each person's particular needs to facilitate the most effective therapy. Providing tools, techniques and guided clearings to heal your issues. She believes in the ability to achieve positive life changes and will help you find the path to a well-deserved meaningful and fulfilling life.
Denyse specializes in working with adults dealing with unresolved trauma and anxiety. She offers a personalized approach tailored to each person's particular needs to facilitate the most effective therapy. Providing tools, techniques and guided clearings to heal your issues. She believes in the ability to achieve positive life changes and will help you find the path to a well-deserved meaningful and fulfilling life.
(303) 622-5729 View (303) 622-5729
Photo of Amy McAllaster, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy McAllaster
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Littleton, CO 80120
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
Photo of Kelly Picune, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kelly Picune
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Littleton, CO 80120
I have been passionate about psychology and helping others for as long as I can remember. One of my early passions became to destigmatize mental health care. Mental health is just as important as physical health. I work with a variety of individuals working to live happier and healthier lives by overcoming many different issues, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship conflicts, and more. Through my own personal experience, I know beginning the therapy journey can feel a bit daunting, however I am here to help create a safe and collaborative space where you are comfortable.
I have been passionate about psychology and helping others for as long as I can remember. One of my early passions became to destigmatize mental health care. Mental health is just as important as physical health. I work with a variety of individuals working to live happier and healthier lives by overcoming many different issues, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship conflicts, and more. Through my own personal experience, I know beginning the therapy journey can feel a bit daunting, however I am here to help create a safe and collaborative space where you are comfortable.
(866) 783-7914 View (866) 783-7914
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.