Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Bannockburn, IL

Photo of Serge Sorokin, PsyD, Psychologist
Serge Sorokin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Bannockburn, IL 60015
Dr. Sorokin effectively treats depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder and substance abuse by successfully combining hypnosis and psychotherapy. He also specializes in relationship problems, anger management, OCD, domestic abuse, sleep issues and PTSD. If you feel stock in life and powerless to change things, if you feel fatigue and constantly worry it's time to start changing your life. Dr. Sorokin utilizes his innovative approach to create a long-lasting improvement in your emotional and physical condition and achieve a successful, balanced life. He effectively utilizes holistic approach to help you recognize an important unity of human body, mind and spirit.
Dr. Sorokin effectively treats depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder and substance abuse by successfully combining hypnosis and psychotherapy. He also specializes in relationship problems, anger management, OCD, domestic abuse, sleep issues and PTSD. If you feel stock in life and powerless to change things, if you feel fatigue and constantly worry it's time to start changing your life. Dr. Sorokin utilizes his innovative approach to create a long-lasting improvement in your emotional and physical condition and achieve a successful, balanced life. He effectively utilizes holistic approach to help you recognize an important unity of human body, mind and spirit.
(847) 607-6525 View (847) 607-6525
Photo of Parisa Azhdarianfard - Aram Connection, LCPC
Aram Connection
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bannockburn, IL 60015
Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed with life’s challenges or simply want to work on achieving better balance in your life, we can help guide you. Perhaps you’ve been trying to manage depression, anxiety, substance abuse issues, trauma effects on your own, and feel that it is all a bit too much. At times, we can be our own worst critics, and struggle to manage our self-doubt. We realize that deciding to seek out a therapist can be a difficult task, and you want someone who will be there for you, and help you get to where you want to be in your life without judgment.
Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed with life’s challenges or simply want to work on achieving better balance in your life, we can help guide you. Perhaps you’ve been trying to manage depression, anxiety, substance abuse issues, trauma effects on your own, and feel that it is all a bit too much. At times, we can be our own worst critics, and struggle to manage our self-doubt. We realize that deciding to seek out a therapist can be a difficult task, and you want someone who will be there for you, and help you get to where you want to be in your life without judgment.
(847) 565-2627 View (847) 565-2627
Photo of Adrienne Mannion, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Adrienne Mannion
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bannockburn, IL 60015
With a down-to-earth approach, I'm here to help you navigate your inner struggles and emerge as a more resilient version of yourself. I believe in embracing the full spectrum of who you are—light, dark, and and everything in between. Together, we'll find meaning in the struggle, redefine hope, and transform pain into uplifting growth.
With a down-to-earth approach, I'm here to help you navigate your inner struggles and emerge as a more resilient version of yourself. I believe in embracing the full spectrum of who you are—light, dark, and and everything in between. Together, we'll find meaning in the struggle, redefine hope, and transform pain into uplifting growth.
(224) 378-0573 View (224) 378-0573
Photo of Susan Jacobs, LCSW, MBA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Jacobs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bannockburn, IL 60015
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois and Iowa with 30 yrs of experience working with adults, couples and teens. I am a strong believer that change is a result of self empowerment, education and support. I believe that each person is unique and requires a holistic approach to inspire change. The therapeutic relationship is one where the client can explore and confront their challenges in a safe environment working with their therapist as a coach. I understand the importance of each person working at their own pace and needing different levels of guidance: Accepting new patients. InnerWarriorLLC.com
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois and Iowa with 30 yrs of experience working with adults, couples and teens. I am a strong believer that change is a result of self empowerment, education and support. I believe that each person is unique and requires a holistic approach to inspire change. The therapeutic relationship is one where the client can explore and confront their challenges in a safe environment working with their therapist as a coach. I understand the importance of each person working at their own pace and needing different levels of guidance: Accepting new patients. InnerWarriorLLC.com
(773) 960-2771 View (773) 960-2771
Photo of Terri A. Ammirati, MA, MFT, LCPC, Counselor
Terri A. Ammirati
Counselor, MA, MFT, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bannockburn, IL 60015
I believe you are the expert of your life. Within you are the answers to many of the problems you face. My role is to come along side you to help clear the obstacles that are preventing real growth and change. We establish a collaborative relationship built on mutual respect and trust. I provide an environment where you will feel safe, supported, heard and understood. Clients describe me as empathetic, genuine, and direct.
I believe you are the expert of your life. Within you are the answers to many of the problems you face. My role is to come along side you to help clear the obstacles that are preventing real growth and change. We establish a collaborative relationship built on mutual respect and trust. I provide an environment where you will feel safe, supported, heard and understood. Clients describe me as empathetic, genuine, and direct.
(847) 607-1374 View (847) 607-1374
Photo of Akilah Yates, NCC, LCPC, CCTP, CTMH
Akilah Yates
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, NCC, LCPC, CCTP, CTMH
Verified Verified
Bannockburn, IL 60015  (Online Only)
Are you feeling stuck in patterns that seem impossible to break? Do relationship issues, leave you feeling disconnected or unsure of your worth? Are you constantly overthinking, struggling with anxiety, or battling feelings of depression that make it hard to move forward? Maybe you’ve been pushing yourself to the limit as an overachiever, yet deep down you feel unfulfilled or burned out. Are procrastination and anxiety holding you back in college, making you feel like you’re falling behind? Or perhaps your traumatic childhood still impact your life today. Do you want to rebuild your confidence? Are you hoping to let go of the past?
Are you feeling stuck in patterns that seem impossible to break? Do relationship issues, leave you feeling disconnected or unsure of your worth? Are you constantly overthinking, struggling with anxiety, or battling feelings of depression that make it hard to move forward? Maybe you’ve been pushing yourself to the limit as an overachiever, yet deep down you feel unfulfilled or burned out. Are procrastination and anxiety holding you back in college, making you feel like you’re falling behind? Or perhaps your traumatic childhood still impact your life today. Do you want to rebuild your confidence? Are you hoping to let go of the past?
(224) 507-7790 View (224) 507-7790
Photo of Paul Nevin, PsyD, Psychologist
Paul Nevin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Bannockburn, IL 60015
At Heart Light, we believe that personal growth is a natural and empowering journey that ultimately belongs to you. Unlike some mental health professionals who see themselves as fixers, we view our role as facilitators of your process. We are here to provide support when needed while encouraging you to discover your own strengths. Our goal is to guide and empower you as you navigate life's challenges, helping you achieve a fulfilling and balanced life. Ready to explore your potential? Visit our website to learn more.
At Heart Light, we believe that personal growth is a natural and empowering journey that ultimately belongs to you. Unlike some mental health professionals who see themselves as fixers, we view our role as facilitators of your process. We are here to provide support when needed while encouraging you to discover your own strengths. Our goal is to guide and empower you as you navigate life's challenges, helping you achieve a fulfilling and balanced life. Ready to explore your potential? Visit our website to learn more.
(847) 886-9462 View (847) 886-9462
Photo of Colby Brooks, M,Ed, Pre-Licensed Professional
Colby Brooks
Pre-Licensed Professional, M,Ed
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bannockburn, IL 60015
A Master's Level Psychotherapist specializing in BIPOC mental health and Student Success, who is deeply passionate about assisting individuals with obtaining their highest level of potential while navigating life's trials and tribulations. Recognizing human nature, we often become dormant by the events we've experienced from birth and forward, and most times, we will develop behaviors that hinder us from progressing. However, there is always room for improvement. Each day you are given a new chance to put your best foot forward, and I commend you for taking this small yet significant step to become a better version of yourself.
A Master's Level Psychotherapist specializing in BIPOC mental health and Student Success, who is deeply passionate about assisting individuals with obtaining their highest level of potential while navigating life's trials and tribulations. Recognizing human nature, we often become dormant by the events we've experienced from birth and forward, and most times, we will develop behaviors that hinder us from progressing. However, there is always room for improvement. Each day you are given a new chance to put your best foot forward, and I commend you for taking this small yet significant step to become a better version of yourself.
(847) 278-9856 View (847) 278-9856

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Diane B Soteras, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diane B Soteras
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lincolnshire, IL 60069  (Online Only)
I have been assisting individuals, couples, groups and families coping with the difficulties that accompany Substance Abuse/Dependence, Dual-Diagnosis, Narcissistic Abuse Recovery and relationship difficulties for over 20 years. I have learned that what we usually find beneath these presenting behaviors can be a mix of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, betrayal, trauma and stress. This is what creates unmanageability. Together we will design healthy coping skills and increase personal insight in order to create awareness, facilitate change and restore manageability.
I have been assisting individuals, couples, groups and families coping with the difficulties that accompany Substance Abuse/Dependence, Dual-Diagnosis, Narcissistic Abuse Recovery and relationship difficulties for over 20 years. I have learned that what we usually find beneath these presenting behaviors can be a mix of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, betrayal, trauma and stress. This is what creates unmanageability. Together we will design healthy coping skills and increase personal insight in order to create awareness, facilitate change and restore manageability.
(224) 218-9053 View (224) 218-9053
Photo of Mark Branson, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mark Branson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Lincolnshire, IL 60069
Mark Branson is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois. He has a B.A. in Psychology from the University of Iowa and an MSW from Aurora University. Mark offers a person-centered approach that incorporates cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy to help people who experience challenges ranging from anxiety to depression to daily stressors that are interfering with their happiness and the actualization of their potential. Mark utilizes a variety of modalities to help people struggling with a great number of mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and addictions.
Mark Branson is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois. He has a B.A. in Psychology from the University of Iowa and an MSW from Aurora University. Mark offers a person-centered approach that incorporates cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy to help people who experience challenges ranging from anxiety to depression to daily stressors that are interfering with their happiness and the actualization of their potential. Mark utilizes a variety of modalities to help people struggling with a great number of mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, and addictions.
(847) 380-8573 View (847) 380-8573
Photo of Kristen Sanders, LPC, ATR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristen Sanders
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northbrook, IL 60062
Kristen’s clinical interests include: eating disorders, OCD, trauma, anxiety disorders, depression, mood disorders, bipolar disorders, substance use, autism, executive functioning, school and academic issues, career issues, mutism, relationship difficulties, stress management, self-esteem challenges, behavioral challenges, family conflict, and social skills.
It can be difficult to ask for support, especially when you aren't sure how it all works. I will work with you to create a treatment plan that makes sense to you and meets your unique goals. I value a person-centered approach to treatment where you and I work as a team to address the issues you want to explore. I believe that you have the answers to your struggles but need a safe space, support, and guidance, in order to achieve your goals.
Kristen’s clinical interests include: eating disorders, OCD, trauma, anxiety disorders, depression, mood disorders, bipolar disorders, substance use, autism, executive functioning, school and academic issues, career issues, mutism, relationship difficulties, stress management, self-esteem challenges, behavioral challenges, family conflict, and social skills.
It can be difficult to ask for support, especially when you aren't sure how it all works. I will work with you to create a treatment plan that makes sense to you and meets your unique goals. I value a person-centered approach to treatment where you and I work as a team to address the issues you want to explore. I believe that you have the answers to your struggles but need a safe space, support, and guidance, in order to achieve your goals.
(224) 723-5772 View (224) 723-5772
Photo of Jenn Dimer, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jenn Dimer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
Jenn’s clinical interests include: ADHD, autism, executive functioning, OCD, trauma, anxiety, depression and mood disorders, bipolar disorders, substance use, school issues, life transitions, marital and relationship difficulties, stress management, self-esteem, behavioral challenges, family conflict, grief, and social skills struggles.
It can be difficult to ask for support, especially when you aren't sure how it all works. I will work with you to create a treatment plan that makes sense to you and meets your unique goals. Jenn values creating an authentic therapeutic relationship and creating space for vulnerability in treatment. Jenn believes that regardless of age, race, or gender identity, counseling can be a profound and meaningful experience for any person. Jenn strives to provide a judgment-free environment for her patients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Jenn believes that authenticity, humor, and trust are essential.
Jenn’s clinical interests include: ADHD, autism, executive functioning, OCD, trauma, anxiety, depression and mood disorders, bipolar disorders, substance use, school issues, life transitions, marital and relationship difficulties, stress management, self-esteem, behavioral challenges, family conflict, grief, and social skills struggles.
It can be difficult to ask for support, especially when you aren't sure how it all works. I will work with you to create a treatment plan that makes sense to you and meets your unique goals. Jenn values creating an authentic therapeutic relationship and creating space for vulnerability in treatment. Jenn believes that regardless of age, race, or gender identity, counseling can be a profound and meaningful experience for any person. Jenn strives to provide a judgment-free environment for her patients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Jenn believes that authenticity, humor, and trust are essential.
(224) 723-5772 View (224) 723-5772
Photo of Danielle Kroll, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danielle Kroll
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Deerfield, IL 60015
Danielle's specialties include anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, crisis, self harm and suicidal thoughts, substance use, ADHD and more.
Danielle's approach to therapy is to provide a warm, welcoming, and safe environment where her clients can come as they are, with no judgments. She has experience working in an inpatient setting, a php-iop setting and in private practice. Danielle has experience working with children, adolescents, young adults and adults in various settings. Danielle takes a client centered approach for all of her clients, she works on meeting each client where they are at. Danielle's niche is teenagers and young adults.
Danielle's specialties include anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, crisis, self harm and suicidal thoughts, substance use, ADHD and more.
Danielle's approach to therapy is to provide a warm, welcoming, and safe environment where her clients can come as they are, with no judgments. She has experience working in an inpatient setting, a php-iop setting and in private practice. Danielle has experience working with children, adolescents, young adults and adults in various settings. Danielle takes a client centered approach for all of her clients, she works on meeting each client where they are at. Danielle's niche is teenagers and young adults.
(847) 908-5795 View (847) 908-5795
Photo of Joseph Shoshana, PsyD, Psychologist
Joseph Shoshana
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
I have been in private practice for over 20 years and have treated thousands of clients including individuals, families, children and adults. People often come in seeking relief from a range of struggles including depression, anxiety, ADHD, and family conflicts. Through my work with many families I began to also address issues of parenting and family dynamics as well as children and adolescents facing a variety of disorders, self-esteem issues, and acting out behaviors. Over the span of my career I have also treated substance abuse, bipolar, psychotic and personality disorders.
I have been in private practice for over 20 years and have treated thousands of clients including individuals, families, children and adults. People often come in seeking relief from a range of struggles including depression, anxiety, ADHD, and family conflicts. Through my work with many families I began to also address issues of parenting and family dynamics as well as children and adolescents facing a variety of disorders, self-esteem issues, and acting out behaviors. Over the span of my career I have also treated substance abuse, bipolar, psychotic and personality disorders.
(847) 457-4046 View (847) 457-4046
Photo of Denise K Ambre, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Denise K Ambre
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Northbrook, IL 60062
If you’re struggling with a challenging situation in your life, it can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be that way. You deserve to experience happiness, confidence, and inner peace. I treat adults and adolescents struggling with depression, stress and anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, relationship concerns, and attachment issues. I also provide parenting support and couples counseling. My approach involves psychodynamic psychotherapy and relational therapy. I also introduce some cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT).
If you’re struggling with a challenging situation in your life, it can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be that way. You deserve to experience happiness, confidence, and inner peace. I treat adults and adolescents struggling with depression, stress and anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, relationship concerns, and attachment issues. I also provide parenting support and couples counseling. My approach involves psychodynamic psychotherapy and relational therapy. I also introduce some cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT).
(773) 527-0500 View (773) 527-0500
Photo of John Frampton, PsyD, Psychologist
John Frampton
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
I utilize integrative therapy for people struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, bipolar, relationships, and other emotional struggles so that they may maximize their experience of emotional being.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with a lifelong mission of helping children and adults improve their social and emotional well-being. I am the co-founder of Formative Psychological Services, a family-run practice in Chicago. I have over 15 years of experience working in the schools and in private practice, and provide individual therapy, assessments, school consultation, and presentations.
I utilize integrative therapy for people struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, bipolar, relationships, and other emotional struggles so that they may maximize their experience of emotional being.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with a lifelong mission of helping children and adults improve their social and emotional well-being. I am the co-founder of Formative Psychological Services, a family-run practice in Chicago. I have over 15 years of experience working in the schools and in private practice, and provide individual therapy, assessments, school consultation, and presentations.
(872) 814-6122 View (872) 814-6122
Photo of Rachel Swanson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Swanson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
My specialties/areas of expertise include: * Divorce/step-families * Families with children with special needs * Parenting issues/Women's Issues * Couples counseling * Mood disorders: Depression, Bipolar Disorder * Anxiety Disorders.
Chances are, you have happened upon this website because you are looking for something to be different: a feeling, a relationship, a thought, a mood... Together, we will determine what needs to change by looking outside ourselves (exploring roles, rules, connection, boundaries, communication, and support) and by looking within ouselves (exploring thoughts, feelings, coping skills, internal dialogue, and how we've made meaning out of different experiences). Through the process of learning, accepting and changing, something inherently will be different...and you will feel different.
My specialties/areas of expertise include: * Divorce/step-families * Families with children with special needs * Parenting issues/Women's Issues * Couples counseling * Mood disorders: Depression, Bipolar Disorder * Anxiety Disorders.
Chances are, you have happened upon this website because you are looking for something to be different: a feeling, a relationship, a thought, a mood... Together, we will determine what needs to change by looking outside ourselves (exploring roles, rules, connection, boundaries, communication, and support) and by looking within ouselves (exploring thoughts, feelings, coping skills, internal dialogue, and how we've made meaning out of different experiences). Through the process of learning, accepting and changing, something inherently will be different...and you will feel different.
(224) 293-4488 View (224) 293-4488
Photo of Sayeeda Kausar, MSW, LSW, CADC
Sayeeda Kausar
MSW, LSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
Sayeeda’s clinical interests include: substance use, trauma, anxiety disorders, depression and mood disorders, bipolar disorders, identity development, relationship difficulties, stress management, self-esteem challenges, career issues, behavioral challenges, family conflict, school and academic issues, as well as social skills struggles.
Finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming. I'm here for you. I believe in a collaborative approach to treatment where there is a sense of mutual respect, empathy, self-exploration, and empowerment. I work with you to build an authentic, honest, and transparent connection. I also value a culturally sensitive and relational approach that fosters a safe, non-judgmental, trusting, warm and supportive space where you can be vulnerable, feel heard, feel seen, and feel accepted being your true authentic self.
Sayeeda’s clinical interests include: substance use, trauma, anxiety disorders, depression and mood disorders, bipolar disorders, identity development, relationship difficulties, stress management, self-esteem challenges, career issues, behavioral challenges, family conflict, school and academic issues, as well as social skills struggles.
Finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming. I'm here for you. I believe in a collaborative approach to treatment where there is a sense of mutual respect, empathy, self-exploration, and empowerment. I work with you to build an authentic, honest, and transparent connection. I also value a culturally sensitive and relational approach that fosters a safe, non-judgmental, trusting, warm and supportive space where you can be vulnerable, feel heard, feel seen, and feel accepted being your true authentic self.
(224) 723-5772 View (224) 723-5772
Photo of Daisy Franco, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Daisy Franco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northbrook, IL 60062  (Online Only)
Hi there! My name is Daisy Franco, and I am a seasoned bilingual LCSW based in Illinois with over a decade of experience. I provide individual therapy for BIPOC adolescents, young adults, and grown adults with emotional support in life transitions, women's issues, dealing with work-life balance, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, body image, and c-PTSD. I also have a strong foundation background in working with adult clients with chronic mental illness and dual-integrated co-occurring disorders such as schizophrenia, bipolar I, and II. I'm also trained to complete various immigration evaluations, such as asylum seekers.
Hi there! My name is Daisy Franco, and I am a seasoned bilingual LCSW based in Illinois with over a decade of experience. I provide individual therapy for BIPOC adolescents, young adults, and grown adults with emotional support in life transitions, women's issues, dealing with work-life balance, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, body image, and c-PTSD. I also have a strong foundation background in working with adult clients with chronic mental illness and dual-integrated co-occurring disorders such as schizophrenia, bipolar I, and II. I'm also trained to complete various immigration evaluations, such as asylum seekers.
(708) 729-5023 View (708) 729-5023
Photo of Sarin Lerner, LCSW, CTP, RYT 200, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarin Lerner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CTP, RYT 200
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Northbrook, IL 60062
"Let go of who you think you are supposed to be and embrace who you are." -Brene Brown It is often our own misconceptions who we are "supposed to be" and unrealistic expectations of ourselves that get in the way of our own personal growth. We tend to overlook our strengths and struggles while giving so much weight to these perceived failures. We think of happiness as a destination to get to, unpack our bags, and live there "happily ever after." I will work with you to untwist these unrealistic, unhelpful ways to view our emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. Our behaviors have a purpose if we look close enough without judgement.
"Let go of who you think you are supposed to be and embrace who you are." -Brene Brown It is often our own misconceptions who we are "supposed to be" and unrealistic expectations of ourselves that get in the way of our own personal growth. We tend to overlook our strengths and struggles while giving so much weight to these perceived failures. We think of happiness as a destination to get to, unpack our bags, and live there "happily ever after." I will work with you to untwist these unrealistic, unhelpful ways to view our emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. Our behaviors have a purpose if we look close enough without judgement.
(224) 707-8264 View (224) 707-8264

See more therapy options for Bannockburn

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.