Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Indianapolis, IN

Photo of Teri Cardwell, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Teri Cardwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46240
I have worked with behavioral health (anxiety, substance use); mood disorders including depression, Bipolar, and dual diagnoses; trauma and PTSD; and personality disorders.
As a therapist, I am most excited to see clients motivated to explore their unknown strengths, widen their horizons, increase their abilities to make informed decisions and lead a life of meaning as they define it. Everyone I have worked with brings to therapy a foundation upon which to grow. Regardless of the problem, an enhanced sense of self is possible. Instilling hope of something better in life is one of my greatest motivations, and assisting others in achieving their goals drew me to this profession.
I have worked with behavioral health (anxiety, substance use); mood disorders including depression, Bipolar, and dual diagnoses; trauma and PTSD; and personality disorders.
As a therapist, I am most excited to see clients motivated to explore their unknown strengths, widen their horizons, increase their abilities to make informed decisions and lead a life of meaning as they define it. Everyone I have worked with brings to therapy a foundation upon which to grow. Regardless of the problem, an enhanced sense of self is possible. Instilling hope of something better in life is one of my greatest motivations, and assisting others in achieving their goals drew me to this profession.
(463) 724-2620 View (463) 724-2620
Photo of Deanna Miller, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deanna Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46227
Treatment areas include: Anxiety, Depression, Adjustment, Bipolar, Early Dementia, Geriatric mental health concerns, Women's Issues, Work-Related, Grief, and problems related to Chronic Medical Issues.
Deanna Miller is a licensed independent social worker with 22 years of experience. She earned a Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of Wyoming. She has experience as a therapist working with adults in various settings including: hospitals, inpatient/outpatient psychiatric units, community based, and long-term care facilities. In the past, she has served as a Clinical Supervisor and Regional Manager for several organizations including Lifestance. She provides individual therapy for adults using a virtual platform.
Treatment areas include: Anxiety, Depression, Adjustment, Bipolar, Early Dementia, Geriatric mental health concerns, Women's Issues, Work-Related, Grief, and problems related to Chronic Medical Issues.
Deanna Miller is a licensed independent social worker with 22 years of experience. She earned a Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of Wyoming. She has experience as a therapist working with adults in various settings including: hospitals, inpatient/outpatient psychiatric units, community based, and long-term care facilities. In the past, she has served as a Clinical Supervisor and Regional Manager for several organizations including Lifestance. She provides individual therapy for adults using a virtual platform.
(317) 620-7307 View (317) 620-7307
Photo of Amy Hirt, MSW,  LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Hirt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46216
Her expertise also extends to addressing alcohol and drug use, bipolar disorder, childhood behavior issues, gender identity, grief, and life transitions.
Amy J. Hirt, LCSW, serves the mental health needs of Indiana residents with a holistic and compassionate approach. As a highly trained and experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Amy integrates a wide array of therapeutic modalities to help clients navigate their mental health challenges. She believes in treating each client as an individual, employing a "therapeutic toolbox" that includes EMDR, Yoga/Movement Therapy, CBT, DBT, and other interventions tailored to the unique needs of her clients.
Her expertise also extends to addressing alcohol and drug use, bipolar disorder, childhood behavior issues, gender identity, grief, and life transitions.
Amy J. Hirt, LCSW, serves the mental health needs of Indiana residents with a holistic and compassionate approach. As a highly trained and experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Amy integrates a wide array of therapeutic modalities to help clients navigate their mental health challenges. She believes in treating each client as an individual, employing a "therapeutic toolbox" that includes EMDR, Yoga/Movement Therapy, CBT, DBT, and other interventions tailored to the unique needs of her clients.
(463) 252-3465 View (463) 252-3465
Photo of Rinkoo Sidhu
Rinkoo Sidhu
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46260  (Online Only)
Over the past decade, I have been focusing my attention on adults with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, alcohol use disorder, and other substance use disorders.
Hello, my name is Rinkoo Sidhu and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) currently licensed in the states of Indiana, Texas, and California. I specialize in psychiatry through a patient-centered approach.
Over the past decade, I have been focusing my attention on adults with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, alcohol use disorder, and other substance use disorders.
Hello, my name is Rinkoo Sidhu and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) currently licensed in the states of Indiana, Texas, and California. I specialize in psychiatry through a patient-centered approach.
(463) 666-2636 View (463) 666-2636
Photo of Swan E Roberts, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Swan E Roberts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46256  (Online Only)
My name is Swan Roberts, and I am a licensed therapist, clinical social worker. Before becoming a therapist, I was in the U.S. army for 2.5 years as a medic, 68w. I decided to become a therapist because I have always enjoyed helping people, and when I was getting out of the army, I had my own therapist to help me through that transition, which inspired me to follow this career path. I look forward to helping you on this healing journey. I have experience utilizing IFS, EMDR, and CBT with clients who are working through trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and addiction issues.
My name is Swan Roberts, and I am a licensed therapist, clinical social worker. Before becoming a therapist, I was in the U.S. army for 2.5 years as a medic, 68w. I decided to become a therapist because I have always enjoyed helping people, and when I was getting out of the army, I had my own therapist to help me through that transition, which inspired me to follow this career path. I look forward to helping you on this healing journey. I have experience utilizing IFS, EMDR, and CBT with clients who are working through trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and addiction issues.
(812) 615-2361 View (812) 615-2361
Photo of Teri Cardwell, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Teri Cardwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46236
I have worked with behavioral health (anxiety, substance use); mood disorders including depression, Bipolar, and dual diagnoses; trauma and PTSD; and personality disorders.
As a therapist, I am most excited to see clients motivated to explore their unknown strengths, widen their horizons, increase their abilities to make informed decisions and lead a life of meaning as they define it. Everyone I have worked with brings to therapy a foundation upon which to grow. Regardless of the problem, an enhanced sense of self is possible. Instilling hope of something better in life is one of my greatest motivations, and assisting others in achieving their goals drew me to this profession.
I have worked with behavioral health (anxiety, substance use); mood disorders including depression, Bipolar, and dual diagnoses; trauma and PTSD; and personality disorders.
As a therapist, I am most excited to see clients motivated to explore their unknown strengths, widen their horizons, increase their abilities to make informed decisions and lead a life of meaning as they define it. Everyone I have worked with brings to therapy a foundation upon which to grow. Regardless of the problem, an enhanced sense of self is possible. Instilling hope of something better in life is one of my greatest motivations, and assisting others in achieving their goals drew me to this profession.
(463) 583-1682 View (463) 583-1682
Photo of Megan Passaloukos, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Megan Passaloukos
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46240  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I also work with clients struggling with mood including bipolar and depression, anxiety and phobias, identity, LGBTQ+ issues, and various life adjustments.
Are you feeling stuck? Having difficulty keeping up? Wanting to make a change but don't know where to start? Change can be scary, and even more intimidating if feeling overwhelmed or alone. But change is possible, offers an opportunity for growth, and there is always hope for a better future. I have years of experience working in inpatient and outpatient settings with individuals of all ages and families of all backgrounds. I offer a calm, warm, nonjudgmental space where issues of all types and sizes may be explored. In a safe, supportive environment, therapeutic services are adapted to meet your individualized needs and goals.
I also work with clients struggling with mood including bipolar and depression, anxiety and phobias, identity, LGBTQ+ issues, and various life adjustments.
Are you feeling stuck? Having difficulty keeping up? Wanting to make a change but don't know where to start? Change can be scary, and even more intimidating if feeling overwhelmed or alone. But change is possible, offers an opportunity for growth, and there is always hope for a better future. I have years of experience working in inpatient and outpatient settings with individuals of all ages and families of all backgrounds. I offer a calm, warm, nonjudgmental space where issues of all types and sizes may be explored. In a safe, supportive environment, therapeutic services are adapted to meet your individualized needs and goals.
(317) 699-8354 View (317) 699-8354
Photo of Traci Kay Schank, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Traci Kay Schank
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46237  (Online Only)
Working with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline, prenatal and postpartum, attachment and adjustment disorders are my specialities.
“There is a disconnect between who I am and who I want to be" "I am ready to turn over a new leaf!". Let me help you take control of your life, thoughts, self-esteem, and motivation. We can work together to help you get back to a life of joy and a passion to live again. My ideal client is ready for growth, self-exploration, and inspiration! You have already made the important first step by searching what possibilities might be out there. If you are ready to do some work, give me a call! I am a structured clinician and my motto is "I don't waste your time".
Working with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline, prenatal and postpartum, attachment and adjustment disorders are my specialities.
“There is a disconnect between who I am and who I want to be" "I am ready to turn over a new leaf!". Let me help you take control of your life, thoughts, self-esteem, and motivation. We can work together to help you get back to a life of joy and a passion to live again. My ideal client is ready for growth, self-exploration, and inspiration! You have already made the important first step by searching what possibilities might be out there. If you are ready to do some work, give me a call! I am a structured clinician and my motto is "I don't waste your time".
(463) 263-3847 View (463) 263-3847
Photo of Tricia McNeil, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Tricia McNeil
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46250
My experience includes providing therapy for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders and trauma.
Do the Best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better. - Maya Angelou. I believe change begins when we take the steps to know our version of "better". Each of us is unique and have different experiences that impact what we know. My approach to counseling is holistic, compassionate and caring. Sometimes aspects of your life just doesn't seem to be going well, you feel overwhelmed, or are seeking self improvement. My goal is to work with you in a collaberative manner in a safe, judgement free environment. You have the strength within you to make positive changes.
My experience includes providing therapy for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders and trauma.
Do the Best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better. - Maya Angelou. I believe change begins when we take the steps to know our version of "better". Each of us is unique and have different experiences that impact what we know. My approach to counseling is holistic, compassionate and caring. Sometimes aspects of your life just doesn't seem to be going well, you feel overwhelmed, or are seeking self improvement. My goal is to work with you in a collaberative manner in a safe, judgement free environment. You have the strength within you to make positive changes.
(765) 754-4865 View (765) 754-4865
Photo of Cydaria LaShon Cooke, MBA, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cydaria LaShon Cooke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MBA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46260
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience working with clients who suffer from depression, self-harming activities, PTSD, stress, emotional trauma, Adjustment disorder, Anxiety, relationship issues, Self-esteem issues, Bipolar disorders, grief and loss, among other mental health issues/concerns.
Hi! Taking care of your body from your neck up is just as important as taking care of your body from the neck down. We must be personally healthy in order to enjoy our lives, provide support to ourselves, and support to others. Are you having troubles with a big transition in your life? Trouble getting grounded? Are you needing support or self direction? Relationship concerns/couples counseling? Feeling sad/depressed, anxious, and/or need someone to talk to? I am accepting new clients!
I have experience working with clients who suffer from depression, self-harming activities, PTSD, stress, emotional trauma, Adjustment disorder, Anxiety, relationship issues, Self-esteem issues, Bipolar disorders, grief and loss, among other mental health issues/concerns.
Hi! Taking care of your body from your neck up is just as important as taking care of your body from the neck down. We must be personally healthy in order to enjoy our lives, provide support to ourselves, and support to others. Are you having troubles with a big transition in your life? Trouble getting grounded? Are you needing support or self direction? Relationship concerns/couples counseling? Feeling sad/depressed, anxious, and/or need someone to talk to? I am accepting new clients!
(317) 751-7846 View (317) 751-7846
Photo of Heather Martin, LCMHC, Counselor
Heather Martin
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46240  (Online Only)
Hello! I'm Heather Martin, a licensed mental health therapist in Indiana. After 7+ years in community mental health, I now exclusively offer online therapy, with over 2 years of telemedicine experience (video and phone sessions). My extensive background spans diverse clients and disorders, specializing in depression, anxiety, and trauma. I also address life transitions, relationships, self-harm, identity, crises, grief, self-esteem, and offer support to the LGBTQ+ community. From severe mental illnesses to post-hospital care, including suicidal ideation, bipolar, and schizophrenia, I support a wide range of concerns.
Hello! I'm Heather Martin, a licensed mental health therapist in Indiana. After 7+ years in community mental health, I now exclusively offer online therapy, with over 2 years of telemedicine experience (video and phone sessions). My extensive background spans diverse clients and disorders, specializing in depression, anxiety, and trauma. I also address life transitions, relationships, self-harm, identity, crises, grief, self-esteem, and offer support to the LGBTQ+ community. From severe mental illnesses to post-hospital care, including suicidal ideation, bipolar, and schizophrenia, I support a wide range of concerns.
(317) 456-2043 View (317) 456-2043
Photo of Barbara Thornburg, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Barbara Thornburg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46260
I have been a licensed clinical social worker for over thirty years working with adults, adolescents and older children, parents, couples, and families. I specialize in the areas of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, Asperger's Syndrome, grief/bereavement, and women's issues.
I have been a licensed clinical social worker for over thirty years working with adults, adolescents and older children, parents, couples, and families. I specialize in the areas of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, Asperger's Syndrome, grief/bereavement, and women's issues.
(317) 855-0306 x5 View (317) 855-0306 x5
Photo of Athena Soleim, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Athena Soleim
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46240  (Online Only)
I am able to help clients struggling with ADHD, Bipolar, Depression, Trauma, Addiction and other issues. I help support my client with meeting their goals. I believe in adapting the process to best meet your needs. I meet my clients where they are and I offer flexibility in the process as we work together. Together, we can meet your goal!
I am able to help clients struggling with ADHD, Bipolar, Depression, Trauma, Addiction and other issues. I help support my client with meeting their goals. I believe in adapting the process to best meet your needs. I meet my clients where they are and I offer flexibility in the process as we work together. Together, we can meet your goal!
(872) 888-7864 View (872) 888-7864
Photo of Marcia Boring, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marcia Boring
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46260
In over 30 years of clinical practice, I have had a wide range of experiences providing services to a clients who struggle with both long term and acute mental health needs. My experience includes treating individuals, families and groups with mood disorders (bipolar), depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss,ADHD, Asperger's, etc. My goal is to create an environment where a client feels comfortable, safe and heard. I make every effort to meet the client where they are in the treatment process always focusing on what best meets the current needs.
In over 30 years of clinical practice, I have had a wide range of experiences providing services to a clients who struggle with both long term and acute mental health needs. My experience includes treating individuals, families and groups with mood disorders (bipolar), depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss,ADHD, Asperger's, etc. My goal is to create an environment where a client feels comfortable, safe and heard. I make every effort to meet the client where they are in the treatment process always focusing on what best meets the current needs.
(317) 427-5204 x3 View (317) 427-5204 x3
Photo of Jackie Hunter, LPCC, Counselor
Jackie Hunter
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46268  (Online Only)
Hi there. I'm so happy you found my counseling profile. I have experience with a wide array of issues including depression, anxiety, alcohol and drug issues, PTSD, personality disorders, bipolar and other mood disorders, eating disorders, trauma, and relationship issues. I have an eclectic approach to therapy using different techniques such as motivational interviewing, solution-focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, positive psychology, psychoeducation, dialectical behavioral therapy, and person-centered therapy.
Hi there. I'm so happy you found my counseling profile. I have experience with a wide array of issues including depression, anxiety, alcohol and drug issues, PTSD, personality disorders, bipolar and other mood disorders, eating disorders, trauma, and relationship issues. I have an eclectic approach to therapy using different techniques such as motivational interviewing, solution-focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, positive psychology, psychoeducation, dialectical behavioral therapy, and person-centered therapy.
(317) 961-2792 View (317) 961-2792
Photo of Peggy B Barnes, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Peggy B Barnes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46254
My therapy style is based in gaining insight, developing coping skills, and overcoming obstacles that create anxiety and depression. I work with clients to overcome trauma and develop empowerment for the future. In working with Bipolar Disorder, I find education and identifying triggers are paramount to managing symptoms. I will explore with you what has not worked in the past, and what will work going forward.
My therapy style is based in gaining insight, developing coping skills, and overcoming obstacles that create anxiety and depression. I work with clients to overcome trauma and develop empowerment for the future. In working with Bipolar Disorder, I find education and identifying triggers are paramount to managing symptoms. I will explore with you what has not worked in the past, and what will work going forward.
(317) 516-0085 View (317) 516-0085
Photo of Mindful Morphosis - Mindful Morphosis Counseling Services, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Mindful Morphosis Counseling Services
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46240  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
We also work with clients struggling with mood including bipolar and depression, anxiety and phobias, identity, LGBTQ+ issues, and various life adjustments.
Are you feeling stuck? Having difficulty keeping up? Wanting to make a change but don't know where to begin? Change can be scary, and even more intimidating if feeling overwhelmed or alone. But change is possible and always offers an opportunity for growth and hope for a better future. We have years of experience working in inpatient and outpatient settings with individuals of all ages and families of all backgrounds. We offer a calm, warm, nonjudgmental space where issues of all types and sizes may be explored. In this safe, supportive environment, therapeutic services are adapted to meet clients' individualized needs.
We also work with clients struggling with mood including bipolar and depression, anxiety and phobias, identity, LGBTQ+ issues, and various life adjustments.
Are you feeling stuck? Having difficulty keeping up? Wanting to make a change but don't know where to begin? Change can be scary, and even more intimidating if feeling overwhelmed or alone. But change is possible and always offers an opportunity for growth and hope for a better future. We have years of experience working in inpatient and outpatient settings with individuals of all ages and families of all backgrounds. We offer a calm, warm, nonjudgmental space where issues of all types and sizes may be explored. In this safe, supportive environment, therapeutic services are adapted to meet clients' individualized needs.
(317) 699-8285 View (317) 699-8285
Photo of Julie Quigley, PhD, LMHC, LPCC-S, ACS, LPSC, Counselor
Julie Quigley
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, LPCC-S, ACS, LPSC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46240
I have already counseled my ideal client. I worked with a client who came to me in her most significant time of need. She was ready to put in work and wanted to develop. She was diagnosed with Bipolar I and had several suicide attempts. She could externalize her mania and use fitness and wellness to push through her episodes. She is happy and healthy and uses her experiences to help others. My services involve psychotherapy using techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and motivational interviewing (MI), with a trauma-informed framework.
I have already counseled my ideal client. I worked with a client who came to me in her most significant time of need. She was ready to put in work and wanted to develop. She was diagnosed with Bipolar I and had several suicide attempts. She could externalize her mania and use fitness and wellness to push through her episodes. She is happy and healthy and uses her experiences to help others. My services involve psychotherapy using techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and motivational interviewing (MI), with a trauma-informed framework.
(463) 244-5546 View (463) 244-5546
Photo of Phillips Hwang, MA, LMHC, NCC, CST, BC-TMH, Counselor
Phillips Hwang
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC, CST, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46268  (Online Only)
I compassionately and skillfully provide evidence based treatment to couples, adults, and adolescents struggling with sexual issues such as difficulties in marital sexuality, affair recovery, sexual addiction and sexual abuse. I also provide couples counseling, premarital counseling, and individual counseling with presenting issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, family issues, and spiritual issues. I also integrate Christian spirituality and spiritual formation into counseling sessions for clients who request this specialty. Ultimately, my desire is to journey with those who are hurting and broken to help them find true healing and hope.
I compassionately and skillfully provide evidence based treatment to couples, adults, and adolescents struggling with sexual issues such as difficulties in marital sexuality, affair recovery, sexual addiction and sexual abuse. I also provide couples counseling, premarital counseling, and individual counseling with presenting issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, family issues, and spiritual issues. I also integrate Christian spirituality and spiritual formation into counseling sessions for clients who request this specialty. Ultimately, my desire is to journey with those who are hurting and broken to help them find true healing and hope.
(317) 451-5133 View (317) 451-5133
Photo of Dr. Elizabeth Jackson, PsyD, HSPP, Psychologist
Dr. Elizabeth Jackson
Psychologist, PsyD, HSPP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46202
Areas of Interest : Anxiety, Autism Evaluations, ADHD, Family Therapy, Divorce, Relationship and Social Skills Building, Veterans, Parenting Development, Legal Issues and Court Ordered Evaluations or Counseling, Assessment Services, Substance Use, Personality and Intelligence, Depression, Bipolar Disorder.
I have been practicing psychology successfully for over 20 years. My story includes how I overcame my own struggles during a difficult divorce and the death of my father by using highly researched and validated techniques. As a result, I have mastered a clinically valid approach to overcoming life challenges. I believe my role is to serve as a facilitator to assist you in healing and realizing your true potential by developing the skill set to walk a uniquely determined path toward self-actualization.
Areas of Interest : Anxiety, Autism Evaluations, ADHD, Family Therapy, Divorce, Relationship and Social Skills Building, Veterans, Parenting Development, Legal Issues and Court Ordered Evaluations or Counseling, Assessment Services, Substance Use, Personality and Intelligence, Depression, Bipolar Disorder.
I have been practicing psychology successfully for over 20 years. My story includes how I overcame my own struggles during a difficult divorce and the death of my father by using highly researched and validated techniques. As a result, I have mastered a clinically valid approach to overcoming life challenges. I believe my role is to serve as a facilitator to assist you in healing and realizing your true potential by developing the skill set to walk a uniquely determined path toward self-actualization.
(317) 644-4358 View (317) 644-4358
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Bipolar Disorder Therapists

What is the most successful approach to treating bipolar disorder?

Living with bipolar disorder can be challenging, and a number of therapies have been found effective in providing support to patients as they gain the skills to understand and manage the disorder. Family-focused therapy is often helpful for children and teens (the majority of cases develop before age 19); it aims to minimize mood cycling by improving family communication and reducing conflict. It also helps young people navigate the developmental challenges the disorder can create. Cognitive and behavioral therapy (CBT) and variants such as Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)help patients manage the thoughts and feelings that influence bipolar mood swings as well as develop specific behavioral strategies to counteract them.

What happens in therapy for bipolar disorder?

Because the patterns of mood switching and its triggers differ for each person and can change over time, mood tracking or monitoring becomes a basic way patients learn about the nature of their condition. One of the most common features of therapy is finding a workable method of mood monitoring, in which patients track their daily activities and rate their moods, then use the findings to adjust routines accordingly. Patients learn ways of handling the many stresses that arise in life so that they do not trigger mood swings.

What kinds of problems does therapy help with?

Like many other mental health disorders, BPD is heavily influenced by stress; therapy provides skills for coping with stressors of all kinds. Therapy is extremely important for helping individuals identify the situations that may trigger mood switching, so that mood swings can be prevented. Therapy may especially target recognition of the early stages of mood change so that they can be managed. In addition, therapy helps patients deal with the significant amount of turbulence the disorder can create in relationships and in work life.

What is the goal of therapy for bipolar disorder?

Therapy helps patients set up their lives to maintain stability so that their mood isn’t constantly threatened by daily events. Perhaps the first task of therapy is to educate people about the nature of the disorder. At the same time, a primary goal of therapy is to enhance adherence to drug treatment. Extended periods of mood stability can prompt patients to discontinue medication, triggering relapse, while the early phases of manic episodes can feel so energizing that patients stop medication, ushering in full-blown mania and the altered self-perception that can lead to destructive behaviors. Another major goal of therapy is to understand one’s mood patterns so as to minimize both the frequency and intensity of mood cycling.