Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Winfield, IL
![Photo of Michelle Rogers, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0634e526-47e6-4463-8f79-bd64605d256c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Rogers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winfield, IL 60190
Alone, terrified, and worried that your life will never change? Ready for a change but apprehensive about the process? Sometimes getting help extends beyond family/friends. Addiction counseling includes addressing co-existing issues such as family, relationships, employment, education, spirituality, physical/mental health and legal concerns. Healing and growth begins with a collaborative, compassionate, yet direct approach to change. I walk with you as you work to gain self-awareness, self-esteem, and empowerment. I assist clients in finding hidden strengths, so they can overcome their challenges. My specialty includes addictions, co-occurring disorders - depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, anger, etc.
Alone, terrified, and worried that your life will never change? Ready for a change but apprehensive about the process? Sometimes getting help extends beyond family/friends. Addiction counseling includes addressing co-existing issues such as family, relationships, employment, education, spirituality, physical/mental health and legal concerns. Healing and growth begins with a collaborative, compassionate, yet direct approach to change. I walk with you as you work to gain self-awareness, self-esteem, and empowerment. I assist clients in finding hidden strengths, so they can overcome their challenges. My specialty includes addictions, co-occurring disorders - depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, anger, etc.
![Photo of Briana Jakubik - Briana Jakubik, LPC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d5434c9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Briana Jakubik
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Winfield, IL 60190 (Online Only)
I strive to find solutions that are "Skills Over Pills" when starting therapy. I am passionate about helping teens and adults that are struggling to better themselves. It can be scary to feel that you are “behind others” in life, but I can help you refocus on the positive aspects of yourself and what you are truly capable of. I specialize in LGBTQ+, anxiety, depression, life changes, ADHD, and eating disorders. I have worked with individuals, groups, and in hospital settings. I also taught parenting classes and have experience with career counseling. All of my experience is focused on guiding others along their journey.
I strive to find solutions that are "Skills Over Pills" when starting therapy. I am passionate about helping teens and adults that are struggling to better themselves. It can be scary to feel that you are “behind others” in life, but I can help you refocus on the positive aspects of yourself and what you are truly capable of. I specialize in LGBTQ+, anxiety, depression, life changes, ADHD, and eating disorders. I have worked with individuals, groups, and in hospital settings. I also taught parenting classes and have experience with career counseling. All of my experience is focused on guiding others along their journey.
![Photo of Shannon Dudzienski, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e665ba10-ac91-402a-86be-e246b98eb060/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shannon Dudzienski is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois with 4 years of experience. She received her Associate of Arts from then College of DuPage, and then transferred to Northern Illinois University to obtain her Bachelor in Psychology, followed by her Master in Social Work. Shannon believes in a strength-based and client-centered approach. She provides support, validation, a welcoming environment, and meets clients where they are at. Her treatment philosophy includes using interventions such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, art therapy, and play therapy.
Shannon Dudzienski is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois with 4 years of experience. She received her Associate of Arts from then College of DuPage, and then transferred to Northern Illinois University to obtain her Bachelor in Psychology, followed by her Master in Social Work. Shannon believes in a strength-based and client-centered approach. She provides support, validation, a welcoming environment, and meets clients where they are at. Her treatment philosophy includes using interventions such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, art therapy, and play therapy.
![Photo of Jenny Schermerhorn, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2c1564fc-6df9-4ee9-b489-7431736fca7b/2/320x400.png)
Everyone deserves a safe, non-judgmental space to process, reflect and heal. I am passionate about providing my clients a space to examine patterns and behaviors that are no longer serving them and move forward with their lives in an empowered, healthy way. No matter what your current challenges and needs are, we can work together to establish realistic goals for therapy that will help move you toward creating the life and relationships you want.
Everyone deserves a safe, non-judgmental space to process, reflect and heal. I am passionate about providing my clients a space to examine patterns and behaviors that are no longer serving them and move forward with their lives in an empowered, healthy way. No matter what your current challenges and needs are, we can work together to establish realistic goals for therapy that will help move you toward creating the life and relationships you want.
![Photo of Sukhi Sandhu, LCPC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/65383d79-3d59-402f-8bf3-1ad32d5579f8/1/320x400.png)
Sukhi Sandhu is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois who has been practicing since 2019. Her educational background includes an MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a B.A. in Psychology from the University of Illinois Urbana/Champaign. Sukhi helps adults, adolescents, and families to find healthy perceptions of themselves and strengthen their relationships so they can know themselves as peaceful, complete, whole, and safe.
Sukhi Sandhu is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois who has been practicing since 2019. Her educational background includes an MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a B.A. in Psychology from the University of Illinois Urbana/Champaign. Sukhi helps adults, adolescents, and families to find healthy perceptions of themselves and strengthen their relationships so they can know themselves as peaceful, complete, whole, and safe.
![Photo of Stephanie Key, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5230ff2d-c86b-4e8e-a5b6-a77c23cc8fea/1/320x400.jpeg)
Steph Key is a Licensed Master Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2022. Steph's approach is person centered with an emphasis on mindfulness, play, and community care from a trauma informed perspective. They utilize CBT, narrative, mindfulness, DBT, and play therapy. Steph is currently working on developing a combination of play and narrative therapeutic models for adults through creativity and creative writing. They firmly believe that clients are the experts, and they are students on a journey together.
Steph Key is a Licensed Master Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2022. Steph's approach is person centered with an emphasis on mindfulness, play, and community care from a trauma informed perspective. They utilize CBT, narrative, mindfulness, DBT, and play therapy. Steph is currently working on developing a combination of play and narrative therapeutic models for adults through creativity and creative writing. They firmly believe that clients are the experts, and they are students on a journey together.
![Photo of Kristen A Jacobs, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dfc571b8-4daf-4555-bb0b-cce36593af5a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kristen A. Jacobs is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2009. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Northern Illinois University and a Master of Social Work from Aurora University. Kristen creates a safe and supportive space for the client, in which she utilizes individualized, strength-based treatment approaches and evidence-based modalities with a concentration on education, validation, acceptance, self-efficacy, and symptom management.
Kristen A. Jacobs is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois who has been practicing since 2009. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Northern Illinois University and a Master of Social Work from Aurora University. Kristen creates a safe and supportive space for the client, in which she utilizes individualized, strength-based treatment approaches and evidence-based modalities with a concentration on education, validation, acceptance, self-efficacy, and symptom management.
![Photo of Joan Christine Vanderschaaf - Counseling Arts & Wellness LLC, EdD, LCPC, LMHC, NCC, E-RYT, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53a31ebe-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Counseling Arts & Wellness LLC
Counselor, EdD, LCPC, LMHC, NCC, E-RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winfield, IL 60190
Life can be stressful enough without deciding on a counselor! This decision probably isn't as scary as actually picking up the phone, making the appointment and doing something about your situation. If you fall in this category, please call me and make an appointment; I cater to chickens! Look at this as an opportunity to do something proactive - I have a common-sense approach to therapy. Together we can clarify the issues, move towards change so you can feel empowered. You had the courage to find this website, keep going. I provide face-to-face counseling as well as video (distance) counseling.
Life can be stressful enough without deciding on a counselor! This decision probably isn't as scary as actually picking up the phone, making the appointment and doing something about your situation. If you fall in this category, please call me and make an appointment; I cater to chickens! Look at this as an opportunity to do something proactive - I have a common-sense approach to therapy. Together we can clarify the issues, move towards change so you can feel empowered. You had the courage to find this website, keep going. I provide face-to-face counseling as well as video (distance) counseling.
![Photo of Jonathan Alvin, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b5e8455-ecb0-4f31-8a91-33a4142c3fe9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Psychotherapy provides a personalized journey towards understanding and learning about one's self. Therapy can help us cope with psychological distress and the issues which life presents to us.
Psychotherapy provides a personalized journey towards understanding and learning about one's self. Therapy can help us cope with psychological distress and the issues which life presents to us.
![Photo of Kasia Tomanek, LPC, NCC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8f83c2ce-cdb4-4958-8145-74cd3f00618a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you struggling to prioritize your own needs and caring for yourself? Are you feeling the weight of depression, anxiety, and relationship problems? I strongly believe that, as individuals, we need to prioritize our own well-being to live a full and rewarding lives. Helping clients discover and access self-care and self-compassion as they begin their journey in therapy is a passion of mine. Beginnings are never easy, but I am here to walk alongside you in this journey and will be here to support and guide you through this rewarding and life changing process.
Are you struggling to prioritize your own needs and caring for yourself? Are you feeling the weight of depression, anxiety, and relationship problems? I strongly believe that, as individuals, we need to prioritize our own well-being to live a full and rewarding lives. Helping clients discover and access self-care and self-compassion as they begin their journey in therapy is a passion of mine. Beginnings are never easy, but I am here to walk alongside you in this journey and will be here to support and guide you through this rewarding and life changing process.
![Photo of Rachel Rosales, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f2680f51-4453-4589-bb4f-a610bc182919/1/320x400.png)
Everyone deserves a non-judgmental and compassionate space to heal! I am passionate about building healthy relationships with my clients. I believe in creating a safe, stable space that will allow you to express yourself and explore your concerns fully and authentically. I specialize in working with clients dealing with mood disorders, neurodiversity, and complex trauma. I regularly work with individuals who have felt let down, misunderstood, or unheard by the traditional healthcare system. I am passionate about and deeply committed to providing neurodivergent-affirming and diversity-affirming care for all of my clients.
Everyone deserves a non-judgmental and compassionate space to heal! I am passionate about building healthy relationships with my clients. I believe in creating a safe, stable space that will allow you to express yourself and explore your concerns fully and authentically. I specialize in working with clients dealing with mood disorders, neurodiversity, and complex trauma. I regularly work with individuals who have felt let down, misunderstood, or unheard by the traditional healthcare system. I am passionate about and deeply committed to providing neurodivergent-affirming and diversity-affirming care for all of my clients.
![Photo of Molly Wollenweber, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e026658-072d-494d-80f8-e22b72b20a50/2/320x400.png)
Molly Wollenweber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winfield, IL 60190
Do you wish someone could truly understand why you have been so anxious and unsure recently? Maybe you are experiencing self-doubt and a lack of confidence in your abilities to make decisions? And you feel distant in your relationships? If you resonate with this, I am here to help you gain confidence and a sense of direction in your life. I will provide you a safe and judgment-free space where you feel free to be your authentic self.
Do you wish someone could truly understand why you have been so anxious and unsure recently? Maybe you are experiencing self-doubt and a lack of confidence in your abilities to make decisions? And you feel distant in your relationships? If you resonate with this, I am here to help you gain confidence and a sense of direction in your life. I will provide you a safe and judgment-free space where you feel free to be your authentic self.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Cynthia M Stafford, MA, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/28eb2adc-fd2d-40e1-a8a8-b3cd9ffa89d8/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety and panic disorders; depression, bipolar disorders and post-partum depression; eating disorders, including anorexia, bulimia, and compulsive overeating; weight management and healthy lifestyle coaching; trauma recovery, including sexual abuse; self-esteem and self-image issues; marriage and relationship counseling; and divorce recovery.
Are you struggling in your personal life or relationships? Counseling is the first step to becoming healthy and fulfilled. I have 30+ years of experience walking alongside people of all ages, including couples and families, to help them on their journey of personal growth. We will work cooperatively together to reach your goals through proven therapeutic interventions, including stress management, anger management, communication skills, emotion regulation, relaxation techniques, cognitive/behavioral therapy, & EMDR. Let's get started working toward your goals.
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety and panic disorders; depression, bipolar disorders and post-partum depression; eating disorders, including anorexia, bulimia, and compulsive overeating; weight management and healthy lifestyle coaching; trauma recovery, including sexual abuse; self-esteem and self-image issues; marriage and relationship counseling; and divorce recovery.
Are you struggling in your personal life or relationships? Counseling is the first step to becoming healthy and fulfilled. I have 30+ years of experience walking alongside people of all ages, including couples and families, to help them on their journey of personal growth. We will work cooperatively together to reach your goals through proven therapeutic interventions, including stress management, anger management, communication skills, emotion regulation, relaxation techniques, cognitive/behavioral therapy, & EMDR. Let's get started working toward your goals.
![Photo of Karen Bailey, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/68a4d8cc-9951-4d34-b75b-7ed84223aaf6/2/320x400.jpeg)
) I also work with people with the diagnosis of bipolar or personality disorder.
TELEHEALTH SESSIONS now available! As a nation, we are being inundated with conflicting information, and you may find yourself feeling stressed, lonely and even overwhelmed during this time of uncertainty. Some of you may be thinking, "And I thought I was anxious before COVID-19!" You may be looking for help in better navigating your reactions, anxiety and depression, especially now as your emotional responses may feel especially strong. I specialize in both providing the "whys" behind these emotional reactions and the "hows" to promote lasting change.
) I also work with people with the diagnosis of bipolar or personality disorder.
TELEHEALTH SESSIONS now available! As a nation, we are being inundated with conflicting information, and you may find yourself feeling stressed, lonely and even overwhelmed during this time of uncertainty. Some of you may be thinking, "And I thought I was anxious before COVID-19!" You may be looking for help in better navigating your reactions, anxiety and depression, especially now as your emotional responses may feel especially strong. I specialize in both providing the "whys" behind these emotional reactions and the "hows" to promote lasting change.
![Photo of Suzie Cuevas, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c0776e2-391e-4e5a-8c97-36b4b111d201/2/320x400.jpeg)
Whether you are seeking guidance through anxiety, depression, grief/bereavement, career transitions, mood disorder, anger management, bipolar disorder, or other mental health challenges, my goal is to provide a warm and friendly environment where you can explore, heal, and embrace positive change.
As a dedicated psychotherapist with 21 years experience, I hold a firm belief that every client deserves to be seen as an individual, beyond the confines of their mental health condition. My approach to therapy is rooted in a commitment to holistic healing, tailored to the unique needs of each person I work with. Drawing upon a blend of therapeutic modalities, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), I strive to create a customized experience that fosters personal growth and well-being.
Whether you are seeking guidance through anxiety, depression, grief/bereavement, career transitions, mood disorder, anger management, bipolar disorder, or other mental health challenges, my goal is to provide a warm and friendly environment where you can explore, heal, and embrace positive change.
As a dedicated psychotherapist with 21 years experience, I hold a firm belief that every client deserves to be seen as an individual, beyond the confines of their mental health condition. My approach to therapy is rooted in a commitment to holistic healing, tailored to the unique needs of each person I work with. Drawing upon a blend of therapeutic modalities, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), I strive to create a customized experience that fosters personal growth and well-being.
![Photo of Meghan Ware, LCPC, EMDR, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4fd12bcf-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work with a multitude of clients to identify and express their emotions in a healthy manner, teaching them various coping skills. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults. I have worked with those suffering from anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, grief and loss, addiction and those having a hard time finding themselves. I believe in the importance of building rapport using empathy and compassion to reach clients of all ages.
I work with a multitude of clients to identify and express their emotions in a healthy manner, teaching them various coping skills. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults. I have worked with those suffering from anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, grief and loss, addiction and those having a hard time finding themselves. I believe in the importance of building rapport using empathy and compassion to reach clients of all ages.
![Photo of Cheryl Davidson, MA , LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/114ddf41-6741-4463-99d8-daa9d36b028e/1/320x400.jpeg)
l work with persons dealing with Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Grief and Loss, Bipolar Disorder, Anger Management, Stress Management, Self Esteem, Relationship Communications, Co-Dependency, and Divorce. The therapeutic strategies that I utilize are evidence-based such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. Along with client input, I help you to develop coping strategies and new skills to mitigate current stressors, improve self-compassion, cultivate a sense of self-value and increase resiliency.
l work with persons dealing with Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Grief and Loss, Bipolar Disorder, Anger Management, Stress Management, Self Esteem, Relationship Communications, Co-Dependency, and Divorce. The therapeutic strategies that I utilize are evidence-based such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. Along with client input, I help you to develop coping strategies and new skills to mitigate current stressors, improve self-compassion, cultivate a sense of self-value and increase resiliency.
![Photo of Alina Trinidad, LPC, CADC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22955968-fb22-4d10-a17a-7667eddddaea/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alina Trinidad
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60189
My areas of focus include substance use disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression, identity exploration, emotion regulation, bipolar disorder, stress sensitivity, and grief.
I am passionate about working with individuals who are dedicating time to their personal development and addressing their challenges. My ideal clients are open to growth and are interested in learning more about themselves. They are ready to confront challenges and learn from the past to improve their futures, and they are committed to the therapy process just as much as I am. Whether we are using EMDR to address trauma or setting goals related to substance use, my ideal clients are ready to work hard to heal, learn, and grow.
My areas of focus include substance use disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression, identity exploration, emotion regulation, bipolar disorder, stress sensitivity, and grief.
I am passionate about working with individuals who are dedicating time to their personal development and addressing their challenges. My ideal clients are open to growth and are interested in learning more about themselves. They are ready to confront challenges and learn from the past to improve their futures, and they are committed to the therapy process just as much as I am. Whether we are using EMDR to address trauma or setting goals related to substance use, my ideal clients are ready to work hard to heal, learn, and grow.
![Photo of Greg Mahoney, MA, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f1a7a150-49d5-42a3-b98c-4c4330ebafb7/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have expertise in dealing with Conflict Resolution, Anger Management, Depression, Anxiety, Substance Abuse, Bipolar Disorder, Coping Skills, Stress, and Trauma/PTSD.
Hello, my name is Greg Mahoney and I have been a Professional Counselor for over 30 years. I have a M.A. in Counseling Psychology from the Adler School of Professional Psychology. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor licensed by the State of Illinois. I have worked in numerous settings: Inpatient, Outpatient, a Substance Abuse Clinic, and in Churches. I have wide-ranging experience both professionally and personally. I have been married to my wife for 32 years and we have raised three daughters. I feel it is the calling of my life to help others and it has been the Joy of my life to do so. Let me help you today.
I have expertise in dealing with Conflict Resolution, Anger Management, Depression, Anxiety, Substance Abuse, Bipolar Disorder, Coping Skills, Stress, and Trauma/PTSD.
Hello, my name is Greg Mahoney and I have been a Professional Counselor for over 30 years. I have a M.A. in Counseling Psychology from the Adler School of Professional Psychology. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor licensed by the State of Illinois. I have worked in numerous settings: Inpatient, Outpatient, a Substance Abuse Clinic, and in Churches. I have wide-ranging experience both professionally and personally. I have been married to my wife for 32 years and we have raised three daughters. I feel it is the calling of my life to help others and it has been the Joy of my life to do so. Let me help you today.
![Photo of Lindsay Prombaum, LCPC, CCATP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/426e0d2f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Areas of practice include: Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, grief/loss, Bipolar Disorder, adjustment issues, suicidal thoughts or behaviors, self-injury, and school struggles.
I am a licensed mental health therapist and certified clinical anxiety treatment provider, working with adolescents and adults to take the necessary steps to improve their well-being. I use compassion, humor, warmth, and respect to connect with clients and their experiences, and my approach focuses on listening, mutual feedback, and collaborative participation in session. Healthy coping skills, self-esteem, communication, and relationships are also focused on, in order to build a stable foundation for continued success.
Areas of practice include: Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, grief/loss, Bipolar Disorder, adjustment issues, suicidal thoughts or behaviors, self-injury, and school struggles.
I am a licensed mental health therapist and certified clinical anxiety treatment provider, working with adolescents and adults to take the necessary steps to improve their well-being. I use compassion, humor, warmth, and respect to connect with clients and their experiences, and my approach focuses on listening, mutual feedback, and collaborative participation in session. Healthy coping skills, self-esteem, communication, and relationships are also focused on, in order to build a stable foundation for continued success.
See more therapy options for Winfield
Nearby Bipolar Disorder Therapists Searches for Winfield
- Aurora
- Bartlett
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- Carol Stream
- Glen Ellyn
- Glendale Heights
- Lisle
- Lombard
- Naperville
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- West Chicago
- Wheaton
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.