Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Chicago, IL

Photo of Caitlin Ruby Miller, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Caitlin Ruby Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
Do you find yourself overwhelmed and overstimulated in a neurotypical world? Utilizing a therapy style uniquely crafted for you, I will work with you to find a sense of purpose, empowerment, and alignment with your deepest self. I specialize in working with clients exploring neurodiversity, "giftedness", burnout, queerness, creativity, ADHD, autism, boundaries, relationships, anxiety, bipolar, and depression. The strength in my approach comes from a balance of experimenting with tangible interventions to improve your daily life as well as insights that empower you to achieve a greater connection to yourself and the world.
Do you find yourself overwhelmed and overstimulated in a neurotypical world? Utilizing a therapy style uniquely crafted for you, I will work with you to find a sense of purpose, empowerment, and alignment with your deepest self. I specialize in working with clients exploring neurodiversity, "giftedness", burnout, queerness, creativity, ADHD, autism, boundaries, relationships, anxiety, bipolar, and depression. The strength in my approach comes from a balance of experimenting with tangible interventions to improve your daily life as well as insights that empower you to achieve a greater connection to yourself and the world.
(312) 646-3784 View (312) 646-3784
Photo of Sean Paras, LCSW, CADC, CRSS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sean Paras
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, CRSS
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60653
I am a licensed clinical social worker specializing in supporting adults facing diverse challenges like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, personality disorders, and substance use disorders. My focus is on providing comprehensive assistance. Bringing over a decade of experience in the mental health field, my approach is grounded in client-centered therapy, which highlights the importance of meeting individuals where they are.
I am a licensed clinical social worker specializing in supporting adults facing diverse challenges like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, personality disorders, and substance use disorders. My focus is on providing comprehensive assistance. Bringing over a decade of experience in the mental health field, my approach is grounded in client-centered therapy, which highlights the importance of meeting individuals where they are.
(872) 266-4016 View (872) 266-4016
Photo of Emily Zibell, LCPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Zibell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657  (Online Only)
I come from working many years in a behavioral health hospital, specializing in adults with mood disorders including: anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and adjustment disorders.
I am a firm believer that when undergoing life’s challenges, we owe it to ourselves to be our own best support person we can be. Sometimes that means asking for help. Whether it’s managing the stresses of everyday life, keeping up with ever changing and ongoing societal and systemic concerns, or managing serious mental health distress, I am excited and honored to work with you towards your therapy goals.
I come from working many years in a behavioral health hospital, specializing in adults with mood disorders including: anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and adjustment disorders.
I am a firm believer that when undergoing life’s challenges, we owe it to ourselves to be our own best support person we can be. Sometimes that means asking for help. Whether it’s managing the stresses of everyday life, keeping up with ever changing and ongoing societal and systemic concerns, or managing serious mental health distress, I am excited and honored to work with you towards your therapy goals.
(708) 671-6470 View (708) 671-6470
Photo of Aimee Daramus, PsyD, LCP, Psychologist
Aimee Daramus
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
I've spent my entire professional life working with people who have trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or a psychotic disorder. My clients are fighting a hard fight, and I value being in it with them. I called my web site "Audeo", which is Latin for "I dare", because my typical client needs some courage just to look up a therapist (or *another* therapist) and I respect it. When it was hard for you to show up for therapy, or use your coping skills, or get up today, you have my respect. You might be doing everything right when you don't feel right at all.
I've spent my entire professional life working with people who have trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or a psychotic disorder. My clients are fighting a hard fight, and I value being in it with them. I called my web site "Audeo", which is Latin for "I dare", because my typical client needs some courage just to look up a therapist (or *another* therapist) and I respect it. When it was hard for you to show up for therapy, or use your coping skills, or get up today, you have my respect. You might be doing everything right when you don't feel right at all.
(872) 266-4436 View (872) 266-4436
Photo of Allison Greven, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allison Greven
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
Waitlist for new clients
Allison’s specialties include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and trauma.
Allison Greven (she/her) is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who received her Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from Loyola University Chicago in 2014. Prior to joining CCBH, Allison worked as a therapist in a partial and intensive outpatient hospitalization program for adults struggling with mood and anxiety disorders. She has also worked in several community mental health settings serving adults and adolescents with a variety of needs including depression, anxiety, suicidality, self-harm, ADHD, psychosis, mood instability, attachment trauma and PTSD.
Allison’s specialties include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and trauma.
Allison Greven (she/her) is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who received her Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from Loyola University Chicago in 2014. Prior to joining CCBH, Allison worked as a therapist in a partial and intensive outpatient hospitalization program for adults struggling with mood and anxiety disorders. She has also worked in several community mental health settings serving adults and adolescents with a variety of needs including depression, anxiety, suicidality, self-harm, ADHD, psychosis, mood instability, attachment trauma and PTSD.
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Photo of Manya Treece, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Manya Treece
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60642
I have worked with many clients, including those who struggle with depression, bipolar disorder, suicidal ideation, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, domestic violence, drug and alcohol abuse, eating disorders, sexual and physical abuse, workplace issues, LGBTQ issues and issues surrounding chronic illness.
My name is Manya, and I am trained in psychodynamic, psychoanalytic psychotherapy. My approach is to form a relationship with each person I see, taking special care to note any patterns in a person's history or present that may be holding them back or causing unnecessary pain or conflict. I take great care to notice how the past is informing the present and to provide the insight needed to develop and maintain healthy relationships, behaviors and feelings.
I have worked with many clients, including those who struggle with depression, bipolar disorder, suicidal ideation, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, domestic violence, drug and alcohol abuse, eating disorders, sexual and physical abuse, workplace issues, LGBTQ issues and issues surrounding chronic illness.
My name is Manya, and I am trained in psychodynamic, psychoanalytic psychotherapy. My approach is to form a relationship with each person I see, taking special care to note any patterns in a person's history or present that may be holding them back or causing unnecessary pain or conflict. I take great care to notice how the past is informing the present and to provide the insight needed to develop and maintain healthy relationships, behaviors and feelings.
(615) 206-4132 View (615) 206-4132
Photo of Bill Singerman, MA, MEd, LCPC, Counselor
Bill Singerman
Counselor, MA, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
Additionally, I have much experience working with individuals living with a bipolar condition.
Clients frequently come to me when they are at a “fork in the road.” They are searching for direction after having experienced and/or overcome significant personal challenges. Unfortunately, they now find that their historical coping mechanisms are no longer serving them. They seek a greater understanding of their emotions, thoughts, and behavioral patterns in order to move forward with their lives.
Additionally, I have much experience working with individuals living with a bipolar condition.
Clients frequently come to me when they are at a “fork in the road.” They are searching for direction after having experienced and/or overcome significant personal challenges. Unfortunately, they now find that their historical coping mechanisms are no longer serving them. They seek a greater understanding of their emotions, thoughts, and behavioral patterns in order to move forward with their lives.
(331) 244-8101 View (331) 244-8101
Photo of Dr. Rae K. Watkins, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Rae K. Watkins
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613  (Online Only)
Dr. Watkins is a Clinical Psychologist who's profession experience includes psycho-diagnostic assessment and counseling of children, adolescents and adults in the areas of trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, marital guidance, sexuality, juvenile delinquency and phase of life transitions. Dr. Watkins practices from a client-centered framework, focusing on genuineness and unconditional positive regard for clients, with the belief that all persons are capable of functioning at their full, yet personal, potential. Dr. Watkins has served as an Investigator on clinical trials in the areas of Depression, Bipolar Disorder and Schizophrenia.
Dr. Watkins is a Clinical Psychologist who's profession experience includes psycho-diagnostic assessment and counseling of children, adolescents and adults in the areas of trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, marital guidance, sexuality, juvenile delinquency and phase of life transitions. Dr. Watkins practices from a client-centered framework, focusing on genuineness and unconditional positive regard for clients, with the belief that all persons are capable of functioning at their full, yet personal, potential. Dr. Watkins has served as an Investigator on clinical trials in the areas of Depression, Bipolar Disorder and Schizophrenia.
(773) 993-1383 View (773) 993-1383
Photo of Sean McMenamin, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sean McMenamin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614
I have experience working with adults who struggled with anxiety, depression, grief, PTSD, substance use, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.
Sharing one's thoughts and feelings with a complete stranger can seem awkward and bizarre. My goal early on in therapy is to make the experience feel as comfortable as possible by creating a space without judgement and aiming to understand you as a whole person, rather than simply a set of symptoms or a diagnosis. I believe that we all have the capacity to overcome life's many obstacles and live closer to our fullest potential. Although therapy is ultimately very serious, I use humor whenever possible so it doesn't feel like you're talking to a robot.
I have experience working with adults who struggled with anxiety, depression, grief, PTSD, substance use, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.
Sharing one's thoughts and feelings with a complete stranger can seem awkward and bizarre. My goal early on in therapy is to make the experience feel as comfortable as possible by creating a space without judgement and aiming to understand you as a whole person, rather than simply a set of symptoms or a diagnosis. I believe that we all have the capacity to overcome life's many obstacles and live closer to our fullest potential. Although therapy is ultimately very serious, I use humor whenever possible so it doesn't feel like you're talking to a robot.
(630) 756-5120 View (630) 756-5120
Photo of Barrett Kern, PsyD, Psychologist
Barrett Kern
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
My strengths as a therapist are in helping people who are experiencing difficulties related to mood (depression, bipolar disorder), traumatic events (past or recent), anxiety, or psychosis. My therapy style is warm, person-centered, and collaborative but also humorous and active. I am also LGBTQIA+ friendly, gender affirming, and body/sex positive. I enjoy working with members of the kink, BDSM, and ethical non-monogamy communities and strive to make therapy a safe space to explore topics relevant to their lives. I am neurodivergence affirming and competent and try to make accommodations whenever possible so therapy is accessible.
My strengths as a therapist are in helping people who are experiencing difficulties related to mood (depression, bipolar disorder), traumatic events (past or recent), anxiety, or psychosis. My therapy style is warm, person-centered, and collaborative but also humorous and active. I am also LGBTQIA+ friendly, gender affirming, and body/sex positive. I enjoy working with members of the kink, BDSM, and ethical non-monogamy communities and strive to make therapy a safe space to explore topics relevant to their lives. I am neurodivergence affirming and competent and try to make accommodations whenever possible so therapy is accessible.
(872) 242-1292 View (872) 242-1292
Photo of Thomas Vittoria, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Thomas Vittoria
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614
I have been providing mental and behavioral support to children, adolescents, and adults for over 20 years. I enjoy helping couples (particularly neurodiverse), find common ground and connection. I have extensive experience working with individuals on the Autism Spectrum. I also work with folks living with Schizophrenia, Bipolar, and Personality Disorders. I enjoy using play therapy with children to build strength through their understanding of the world. My work with different client needs and strengths keeps me excited, engaged, and active in each journey toward stability and wellness.
I have been providing mental and behavioral support to children, adolescents, and adults for over 20 years. I enjoy helping couples (particularly neurodiverse), find common ground and connection. I have extensive experience working with individuals on the Autism Spectrum. I also work with folks living with Schizophrenia, Bipolar, and Personality Disorders. I enjoy using play therapy with children to build strength through their understanding of the world. My work with different client needs and strengths keeps me excited, engaged, and active in each journey toward stability and wellness.
(872) 259-5215 View (872) 259-5215
Photo of Angela Johnson, LPC
Angela Johnson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60649
My name is Angela Johnson, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 15 years of clinical experience working with young adults and the LGBTQ+ community with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, PTSD, and Panic Attacks. I utilize a combination of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Couples Therapy, Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma Focused during my treatments with clients. I believe it is also my job to help clients learn about themselves and determine what is important and what is not.
My name is Angela Johnson, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 15 years of clinical experience working with young adults and the LGBTQ+ community with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, PTSD, and Panic Attacks. I utilize a combination of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Couples Therapy, Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma Focused during my treatments with clients. I believe it is also my job to help clients learn about themselves and determine what is important and what is not.
(224) 970-2777 View (224) 970-2777
Photo of Geraldine Taylor-Filer, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Geraldine Taylor-Filer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60622
Geri has worked with people who are dealing with Dual Diagnosis: depression, addiction, bipolar disorder. She has over 30 years of experience.
Geri has worked with people who are dealing with Dual Diagnosis: depression, addiction, bipolar disorder. She has over 30 years of experience.
(773) 985-2370 View (773) 985-2370
Photo of Angela Johnson, LPC, Counselor
Angela Johnson
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60617
My name is Angela Johnson, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 15 years of clinical experience working with young adults and the LGBTQ+ community with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, PTSD, and Panic Attacks. I utilize a combination of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Couples Therapy, Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma Focused during my treatments with clients. I believe it is also my job to help clients learn about themselves and determine what is important and what is not.
My name is Angela Johnson, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 15 years of clinical experience working with young adults and the LGBTQ+ community with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, PTSD, and Panic Attacks. I utilize a combination of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Couples Therapy, Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma Focused during my treatments with clients. I believe it is also my job to help clients learn about themselves and determine what is important and what is not.
(630) 749-9247 View (630) 749-9247
Photo of Mimi Seversen, MA, LPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Mimi Seversen
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60647  (Online Only)
I see clients from a wide array of backgrounds dealing with various issues that have taken a toll on their ability to cope with life’s challenges. My prior experiences have engaged concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar, challenges regarding health and individuation within family systems, experiences of trauma, violence and abuse. I’ve been honored to sit with people who carry the uniquely isolating weight of being in relationships or in families where alcoholism is present.
I see clients from a wide array of backgrounds dealing with various issues that have taken a toll on their ability to cope with life’s challenges. My prior experiences have engaged concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar, challenges regarding health and individuation within family systems, experiences of trauma, violence and abuse. I’ve been honored to sit with people who carry the uniquely isolating weight of being in relationships or in families where alcoholism is present.
(847) 961-2776 View (847) 961-2776
Photo of Stacey Griffith, MA, LCPC, CCMHC
Stacey Griffith
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60626
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in trauma, anxiety disorders, mood disorders (depression, bipolar), and life transitions.
Therapy is not "one-size-fits-all." I believe each person is the real expert on themselves, and a therapist facilitates change as a supportive partner in the process. Whether your current concerns have to do with anxiety or mood changes, due to major life changes, are trauma-related, or you just need someone to talk about your daily life, I am here to offer the space for you to grow, discover, heal, and succeed.
I specialize in trauma, anxiety disorders, mood disorders (depression, bipolar), and life transitions.
Therapy is not "one-size-fits-all." I believe each person is the real expert on themselves, and a therapist facilitates change as a supportive partner in the process. Whether your current concerns have to do with anxiety or mood changes, due to major life changes, are trauma-related, or you just need someone to talk about your daily life, I am here to offer the space for you to grow, discover, heal, and succeed.
(224) 263-1176 View (224) 263-1176
Photo of Nancy A Naughton, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Nancy A Naughton
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60605
I have worked with mood disorders, including Bipolar Disorder(s), anxiety, stress, PTSD, major and mild depression, LGBTQ issues, and so much more for 23 years.
It has been a pleasure to have served a diverse client population throughout my career at my private practice since 2001. I enjoy working with clients, ages 16-65+, and want my clients to lead fulfilling days and everyday feelings of being: happy, in control, and free of depression, anxiety, stress and other issues. I believe in working together toward therapy goals. You can do it! Let me guide you.
I have worked with mood disorders, including Bipolar Disorder(s), anxiety, stress, PTSD, major and mild depression, LGBTQ issues, and so much more for 23 years.
It has been a pleasure to have served a diverse client population throughout my career at my private practice since 2001. I enjoy working with clients, ages 16-65+, and want my clients to lead fulfilling days and everyday feelings of being: happy, in control, and free of depression, anxiety, stress and other issues. I believe in working together toward therapy goals. You can do it! Let me guide you.
(217) 688-1791 View (217) 688-1791
Photo of Paulina Anna Miszczak, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Paulina Anna Miszczak
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
I have experience working with individuals of all age ranges and specialize in LGBTQIA+ affirming care, identity exploration, trauma & PTSD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and self harm.
By empowering clients to rewrite their own narratives, I encourage them to take charge of their life stories and create the changes they want to see. Using a collaborative, individualized approach, I strive to promote a warm, supportive, growth-oriented therapeutic environment while celebrating multicultural diversity and intersecting identities. I believe that therapy can aid individuals in achieving a greater sense of inner harmony and healing by providing guidance, insight, and understanding. In session, I aim to create a safe space for clients to explore areas of stress in their lives which do not align with their ideal self.
I have experience working with individuals of all age ranges and specialize in LGBTQIA+ affirming care, identity exploration, trauma & PTSD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and self harm.
By empowering clients to rewrite their own narratives, I encourage them to take charge of their life stories and create the changes they want to see. Using a collaborative, individualized approach, I strive to promote a warm, supportive, growth-oriented therapeutic environment while celebrating multicultural diversity and intersecting identities. I believe that therapy can aid individuals in achieving a greater sense of inner harmony and healing by providing guidance, insight, and understanding. In session, I aim to create a safe space for clients to explore areas of stress in their lives which do not align with their ideal self.
(872) 241-2662 View (872) 241-2662
Photo of Jana S Fuchs - Chicago Relational Therapy, PLLC, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Chicago Relational Therapy, PLLC
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614
My clinical training and expertise include the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, relationship issues, grief and loss, parenting struggles, and difficult life transitions.
Finding a therapist can feel overwhelming. You probably sense that it’s finally time to reach out for help, but feel unsure of where to begin. Perhaps you feel uncertain if there is anyone out there who can understand, let alone help. I believe that the strength of the therapeutic relationship directly impacts an individual’s capacity for change. So my first priority is to cultivate a safe, open, and compassionate relationship with each of my clients. My style of therapy is supportive, lively, and direct. My goal is to help you learn to trust yourself and feel less weighed down by self doubt.
My clinical training and expertise include the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, relationship issues, grief and loss, parenting struggles, and difficult life transitions.
Finding a therapist can feel overwhelming. You probably sense that it’s finally time to reach out for help, but feel unsure of where to begin. Perhaps you feel uncertain if there is anyone out there who can understand, let alone help. I believe that the strength of the therapeutic relationship directly impacts an individual’s capacity for change. So my first priority is to cultivate a safe, open, and compassionate relationship with each of my clients. My style of therapy is supportive, lively, and direct. My goal is to help you learn to trust yourself and feel less weighed down by self doubt.
(773) 786-9982 View (773) 786-9982
Photo of Julianne Clifton-Marquez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julianne Clifton-Marquez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60659  (Online Only)
I have experience treating a wide variety of issues including life transitions, mood disorders (Bipolar I and II, Depression, etc.
We all have the ability to break patterns, confront the things which are hurting us, and to live our lives with more grace, happiness, and ease; that includes you. I know that the therapeutic relationship is built on trust, and I have been honored to have the trust of the people I work with and to see the impact of their progress on their lives and the lives of all those around them. I’ll be direct with you, but I’ll also be your biggest cheerleader. If you're wrestling with moods or anxiety that is taking over your life, let's tackle it together so you can focus on the things that are most important to you.
I have experience treating a wide variety of issues including life transitions, mood disorders (Bipolar I and II, Depression, etc.
We all have the ability to break patterns, confront the things which are hurting us, and to live our lives with more grace, happiness, and ease; that includes you. I know that the therapeutic relationship is built on trust, and I have been honored to have the trust of the people I work with and to see the impact of their progress on their lives and the lives of all those around them. I’ll be direct with you, but I’ll also be your biggest cheerleader. If you're wrestling with moods or anxiety that is taking over your life, let's tackle it together so you can focus on the things that are most important to you.
(872) 217-2444 View (872) 217-2444
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.