Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Columbia, MD

Photo of Annette Kerr, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Annette Kerr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21044  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating trauma, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, relationship and self-esteem issues.
Are you feeling anxious, depressed, working through a crisis or want to make a change? I can help you identify and explore new ways of coping and get you back on track. My goal is to assist you in having a healthy, rewarding and fulfilling life. I will guide you toward change in a compassionate and caring way.
I specialize in treating trauma, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, relationship and self-esteem issues.
Are you feeling anxious, depressed, working through a crisis or want to make a change? I can help you identify and explore new ways of coping and get you back on track. My goal is to assist you in having a healthy, rewarding and fulfilling life. I will guide you toward change in a compassionate and caring way.
(301) 683-5801 View (301) 683-5801
Photo of Lisa Redd, LCPC, NCC, MBA, MSPC
Lisa Redd
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC, MBA, MSPC
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21044  (Online Only)
I have experience working with clients from diverse backgrounds who have suffered chronic trauma, substance abuse, anxiety, depression, adjustment disorder and bipolar disorder.
I work with all individuals and in particular those who are members of marginalized communities such as but not limited to, BIPOC, global majority, women, single moms, and those reentering society from incarceration who seek a safe, compassionate, environment to address their mental health needs.
I have experience working with clients from diverse backgrounds who have suffered chronic trauma, substance abuse, anxiety, depression, adjustment disorder and bipolar disorder.
I work with all individuals and in particular those who are members of marginalized communities such as but not limited to, BIPOC, global majority, women, single moms, and those reentering society from incarceration who seek a safe, compassionate, environment to address their mental health needs.
(443) 233-1784 View (443) 233-1784
Photo of Beatrice Aina, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Beatrice Aina
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21044  (Online Only)
I have experience in working with various mental disorders including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder; as well as substance use/abuse.
“Mental health is not a destination, but a process. It’s about how you drive, not where you’re going” – Noam Shpancer, PHD. Sometimes in life we reach a point where we lose focus on the things critical to improving/maintaining our mental health and overall quality of life. I myself have once reached that point and it was then I realized the importance of having a strong network of support, including a therapist. I have come to learn that a tremendous amount of people feel alone, left out, or unheard; and so, I strive to create a safe space for people to be seen, heard, understood, and valued.
I have experience in working with various mental disorders including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder; as well as substance use/abuse.
“Mental health is not a destination, but a process. It’s about how you drive, not where you’re going” – Noam Shpancer, PHD. Sometimes in life we reach a point where we lose focus on the things critical to improving/maintaining our mental health and overall quality of life. I myself have once reached that point and it was then I realized the importance of having a strong network of support, including a therapist. I have come to learn that a tremendous amount of people feel alone, left out, or unheard; and so, I strive to create a safe space for people to be seen, heard, understood, and valued.
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Photo of Suzanne Ricklin, LCSW-C, BCD, CEDS-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Suzanne Ricklin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, BCD, CEDS-C
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21044
Generally, I treat anxiety/depression/impulsivity/OCD/Bipolar I&II.
Psychotherapy is a unique opportunity for clients to explore personal growth work, clarify goals, improve self esteem, reduce stress and better understand themselves and their relationships with others. For 25 years, I've provided counseling for children, adolescents and adults dealing with a range of personal, emotional and mental health issues. In a quiet, relaxed setting, I work with clients to develop effective communication, decision making and problem solving skills to deal with challenges they face. I incorporate extensive training in cognitive, behavioral, dialectical and family therapy as well as relaxing breathing, storytelling and metaphors to help clients achieve more balanced, fulfilling lives.
Generally, I treat anxiety/depression/impulsivity/OCD/Bipolar I&II.
Psychotherapy is a unique opportunity for clients to explore personal growth work, clarify goals, improve self esteem, reduce stress and better understand themselves and their relationships with others. For 25 years, I've provided counseling for children, adolescents and adults dealing with a range of personal, emotional and mental health issues. In a quiet, relaxed setting, I work with clients to develop effective communication, decision making and problem solving skills to deal with challenges they face. I incorporate extensive training in cognitive, behavioral, dialectical and family therapy as well as relaxing breathing, storytelling and metaphors to help clients achieve more balanced, fulfilling lives.
(410) 701-0947 x3 View (410) 701-0947 x3
Photo of Kathleen Van Meter, LCSW-C, C-DBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathleen Van Meter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21044
I have experience providing services to individuals with Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety Disorders, Psychotic Disorders, Eating Disorders, Domestic Violence, At-risk youth, and individuals in crisis.
I am currently licensed at the clinical level (LCSW-C) to practice social work in Maryland. I utilize a direct, yet warm and affirming approach in therapy. Each client is unique and I work hard to assist clients in achieving his or her treatment goals through Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution- Focused Therapy. Much of my work focuses on Mindfulness and supportive therapies.
I have experience providing services to individuals with Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety Disorders, Psychotic Disorders, Eating Disorders, Domestic Violence, At-risk youth, and individuals in crisis.
I am currently licensed at the clinical level (LCSW-C) to practice social work in Maryland. I utilize a direct, yet warm and affirming approach in therapy. Each client is unique and I work hard to assist clients in achieving his or her treatment goals through Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution- Focused Therapy. Much of my work focuses on Mindfulness and supportive therapies.
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Photo of Gisela de la Pena Baptiste - Adult & Adolescent Counseling Services, LLC, MS, LCPC
Adult & Adolescent Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21046
I have over 20 years of counseling experience and 2 years of post-graduate training in (CBT) and Continuing Education in (DBT) to treat issues related to Anxiety Disorders (generalized anxiety disorder, separation anxiety disorder, OCD, PD) & Mood Disorders (unipolar & bipolar depression).
Adult & Adolescent Counseling Services, LLC is an evidence-based mental health counseling practice dedicated to bringing quality services to Individuals & families in Howard County. I specialize in working with pre-teens, adolescents, and adults struggling with anxiety disorders, mood disorders, ADHD, executive functioning, and other social/emotional, and behavioral issues. At the core of my practice is the belief that a strong client/therapist connection is one of the most important factors in achieving a positive outcome in therapy. My goal is to provide clients with caring, compassionate, and effective counseling services.
I have over 20 years of counseling experience and 2 years of post-graduate training in (CBT) and Continuing Education in (DBT) to treat issues related to Anxiety Disorders (generalized anxiety disorder, separation anxiety disorder, OCD, PD) & Mood Disorders (unipolar & bipolar depression).
Adult & Adolescent Counseling Services, LLC is an evidence-based mental health counseling practice dedicated to bringing quality services to Individuals & families in Howard County. I specialize in working with pre-teens, adolescents, and adults struggling with anxiety disorders, mood disorders, ADHD, executive functioning, and other social/emotional, and behavioral issues. At the core of my practice is the belief that a strong client/therapist connection is one of the most important factors in achieving a positive outcome in therapy. My goal is to provide clients with caring, compassionate, and effective counseling services.
(443) 400-7948 View (443) 400-7948
Photo of Elizabeth Venenga, LCPC
Elizabeth Venenga
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21044  (Online Only)
I treat clients seeking help for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, relationship issues, adjustment concerns, LGBTQIA+ issues, non-monogamous relationships, issues related to sex/intimacy, and trauma.
My focus in the counseling relationship is on promoting growth and healing by exploring the role of individual identity, coping strategies, support systems, and trauma in your life. I hope to help you find meaning, achieve personal goals, engage in healthy relationships, and confront past hurtful or painful experiences. I use a client-centered approach to therapy while also incorporating aspects of CBT, DBT, and existential psychotherapy.
I treat clients seeking help for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, relationship issues, adjustment concerns, LGBTQIA+ issues, non-monogamous relationships, issues related to sex/intimacy, and trauma.
My focus in the counseling relationship is on promoting growth and healing by exploring the role of individual identity, coping strategies, support systems, and trauma in your life. I hope to help you find meaning, achieve personal goals, engage in healthy relationships, and confront past hurtful or painful experiences. I use a client-centered approach to therapy while also incorporating aspects of CBT, DBT, and existential psychotherapy.
(240) 213-9081 View (240) 213-9081
Photo of Nana Daining Neuro Psychotherapist Supervisor, LCSW-C, CCTP, CIMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nana Daining Neuro Psychotherapist Supervisor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, CCTP, CIMHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21044  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients" I am a Certified Trauma Specialist who treats both Single and Complex trauma. I also see clients with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, OCD, Relationship issues, Grief and loss counseling, and adjustment related issues. I am Certified in Cognitive Behavioral , and Dialectical Behavioral Therapies, and trained in Motivational Interviewing, Functional and Nutritional Medicine. My therapy style is Strength-based, Person-Centered, combining the above listed treatment modalities with psycho-education, and engagement. Creating a safe and healing environment for my clients.
Accepting New Clients" I am a Certified Trauma Specialist who treats both Single and Complex trauma. I also see clients with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, OCD, Relationship issues, Grief and loss counseling, and adjustment related issues. I am Certified in Cognitive Behavioral , and Dialectical Behavioral Therapies, and trained in Motivational Interviewing, Functional and Nutritional Medicine. My therapy style is Strength-based, Person-Centered, combining the above listed treatment modalities with psycho-education, and engagement. Creating a safe and healing environment for my clients.
(240) 213-4440 View (240) 213-4440
Photo of Lisa Maria Maslar, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Maria Maslar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21045
I work with individuals and families with difficulties ranging from mood disorders to relationship issues. My treatment background includes work with individuals with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, substance abuse and family and relationship problems. The most important component to therapy is a good therapeutic relationship between the client and the therapist. I offer a free inititial consultation to identify your needs and make sure that I am the right therapist for you.
I work with individuals and families with difficulties ranging from mood disorders to relationship issues. My treatment background includes work with individuals with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, substance abuse and family and relationship problems. The most important component to therapy is a good therapeutic relationship between the client and the therapist. I offer a free inititial consultation to identify your needs and make sure that I am the right therapist for you.
(410) 472-5116 View (410) 472-5116
Photo of Marianne O'Leary, PhD, Psychologist
Marianne O'Leary
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21044
Anxiety and depression can rob you of your peace of mind and ability to enjoy life. I specialize in working with people who seek to overcome the effects of anxiety and depression in their lives, and move on to thrive. This includes people with a wide variety of anxiety and mood disorders, including PTSD, OCD, panic disorder, social anxiety, major depression, and bipolar disorders, as well as such other issues as life transitions (young adult, midlife, aging). In addition, I work with problems facing older adults, such as caregiver issues. I am trained in the use of EMDR, and have a longstanding specialty in trauma.
Anxiety and depression can rob you of your peace of mind and ability to enjoy life. I specialize in working with people who seek to overcome the effects of anxiety and depression in their lives, and move on to thrive. This includes people with a wide variety of anxiety and mood disorders, including PTSD, OCD, panic disorder, social anxiety, major depression, and bipolar disorders, as well as such other issues as life transitions (young adult, midlife, aging). In addition, I work with problems facing older adults, such as caregiver issues. I am trained in the use of EMDR, and have a longstanding specialty in trauma.
(410) 489-1189 View (410) 489-1189
Photo of Dr. Shyrielane Watson, PhD, CAS, LCPC
Dr. Shyrielane Watson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PhD, CAS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21044  (Online Only)
Shyrielane specializes in the treatment of mood disorders (depression, bipolar disorder), anxiety disorders (panic disorders, social anxiety), Trauma (PTSD, Acute stress disorder, etc.
Shyrielane's goal is to provide outstanding customer service, sound biblical insight, quality psychotherapy, and effective outcome. You will experience an objective, non-judgmental, professional, who is willing to address religion and spirituality. She has over 10 years of clinical experience in treating adults, children, and families. You can expect a safe place where you will feel comfortable to open up and share your personal problems with someone who is willing to listen, encourage, and equip you with new skills.
Shyrielane specializes in the treatment of mood disorders (depression, bipolar disorder), anxiety disorders (panic disorders, social anxiety), Trauma (PTSD, Acute stress disorder, etc.
Shyrielane's goal is to provide outstanding customer service, sound biblical insight, quality psychotherapy, and effective outcome. You will experience an objective, non-judgmental, professional, who is willing to address religion and spirituality. She has over 10 years of clinical experience in treating adults, children, and families. You can expect a safe place where you will feel comfortable to open up and share your personal problems with someone who is willing to listen, encourage, and equip you with new skills.
(240) 244-9998 View (240) 244-9998
Photo of Bernadette Pruitt, LCPC
Bernadette Pruitt
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21045
couples experiencing relational discord, identity issues, anxiety, adjustment disorders, addictions, ADHD, anger management issues, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and self-esteem issues.
Bernadette Pruitt, LCPC, provides an empathetic and liberating environment to facilitate growth. She believes that her attentive and open approach is pivotal in developing a genuine connection in therapy. Bernadette creates an open space for identifying concerns, setting and evaluating goals, and discovering solutions. A few of Bernadette’s goals are to assist clients in gaining a deeper understanding of themselves, resolving relational discord, accepting difficult changes, and navigating the world with a healthier outlook. Bernadette is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a Masters of Education in Counseling Psychology
couples experiencing relational discord, identity issues, anxiety, adjustment disorders, addictions, ADHD, anger management issues, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and self-esteem issues.
Bernadette Pruitt, LCPC, provides an empathetic and liberating environment to facilitate growth. She believes that her attentive and open approach is pivotal in developing a genuine connection in therapy. Bernadette creates an open space for identifying concerns, setting and evaluating goals, and discovering solutions. A few of Bernadette’s goals are to assist clients in gaining a deeper understanding of themselves, resolving relational discord, accepting difficult changes, and navigating the world with a healthier outlook. Bernadette is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with a Masters of Education in Counseling Psychology
(410) 835-4374 View (410) 835-4374
Photo of Kyra Whittenburg, LCPC, DBT-C
Kyra Whittenburg
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, DBT-C
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21044  (Online Only)
I work with a wide array of issues including anxiety, deprrssion, bipolar, self-harming behaviors, trauma, suicidal ideation, boarderline personality dissorder, and more.
Welcome! I am a licensed professional counselor (LCPC), certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). I believe that the therapist-client relationship is the foundation of successful treatment. I view therapy as partnership between myself and the client, creating a trusting and supportive relationship. I see therapy through a dielectric lens of accepting yourself without judgement and changing unhealthy and maladaptive behaviors.
I work with a wide array of issues including anxiety, deprrssion, bipolar, self-harming behaviors, trauma, suicidal ideation, boarderline personality dissorder, and more.
Welcome! I am a licensed professional counselor (LCPC), certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). I believe that the therapist-client relationship is the foundation of successful treatment. I view therapy as partnership between myself and the client, creating a trusting and supportive relationship. I see therapy through a dielectric lens of accepting yourself without judgement and changing unhealthy and maladaptive behaviors.
(410) 348-1817 View (410) 348-1817
Photo of Breighone Brown, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Breighone Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21045
Are you suffering from symptoms of depression, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, autism spectrum, OCD, and/or PTSD? I'm here to help facilitate your healing process and provide a safe space to voice your deepest concerns freely. Our goal is to significantly improve your self-concept, increase a positive outlook on life, and, most importantly, feel like your best self.
Are you suffering from symptoms of depression, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, autism spectrum, OCD, and/or PTSD? I'm here to help facilitate your healing process and provide a safe space to voice your deepest concerns freely. Our goal is to significantly improve your self-concept, increase a positive outlook on life, and, most importantly, feel like your best self.
(240) 635-9195 View (240) 635-9195
Photo of Erika Conley, Pre-Licensed Professional
Erika Conley
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21044
She has an understanding of mental health related matters including OCD, Anxiety and related disorders, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Addictive Disorders, PTSD, ADHD and Anger management.
Erika has the desire to treat her clients from a holistic lens as she believes treating the client as a whole is important. She believes that the mind-body connection is a powerful one and believes in utilizing techniques that support that connection. She wants her clients to feel understood, seen and heard. Believes that being herself with her clients will allow them room to feel safe to be themselves as well. She works from an empathetic and non judgmental point of view. Erika's goal is to make her clients comfortable enough to open up about anything they may be dealing with and to help them understand themselves on a deeper level
She has an understanding of mental health related matters including OCD, Anxiety and related disorders, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Addictive Disorders, PTSD, ADHD and Anger management.
Erika has the desire to treat her clients from a holistic lens as she believes treating the client as a whole is important. She believes that the mind-body connection is a powerful one and believes in utilizing techniques that support that connection. She wants her clients to feel understood, seen and heard. Believes that being herself with her clients will allow them room to feel safe to be themselves as well. She works from an empathetic and non judgmental point of view. Erika's goal is to make her clients comfortable enough to open up about anything they may be dealing with and to help them understand themselves on a deeper level
(410) 835-7605 View (410) 835-7605
Photo of Breighone Brown, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Breighone Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21045
Are you suffering from symptoms of depression, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, autism spectrum, OCD, and/or PTSD? I'm here to help facilitate your healing process and provide a safe space to voice your deepest concerns freely. Our goal is to significantly improve your self-concept, increase a positive outlook on life, and, most importantly, feel like your best self.
Are you suffering from symptoms of depression, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, autism spectrum, OCD, and/or PTSD? I'm here to help facilitate your healing process and provide a safe space to voice your deepest concerns freely. Our goal is to significantly improve your self-concept, increase a positive outlook on life, and, most importantly, feel like your best self.
(667) 274-0991 View (667) 274-0991
Photo of Hannah Snyder, LCPAT, LCPC, Art Therapist
Hannah Snyder
Art Therapist, LCPAT, LCPC
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21044
I am an art therapist who integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Positive Psychology in my work to treat Anxiety and ADHD in teens and adults. Although this is my specialization, I also have experience working with clients struggling with identity, depression, bipolar disorder, and relationship struggles. I provide individual and group services to her clients, in addition to family and parent coaching.
I am an art therapist who integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Positive Psychology in my work to treat Anxiety and ADHD in teens and adults. Although this is my specialization, I also have experience working with clients struggling with identity, depression, bipolar disorder, and relationship struggles. I provide individual and group services to her clients, in addition to family and parent coaching.
(410) 671-0413 View (410) 671-0413
Photo of Dr. Brian Richards, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Brian Richards
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21044  (Online Only)
Dr. Brian Richards provides Advanced Diagnostic Screenings to clients ages 17+. An advanced diagnostic screening (ADS) refers to a comprehensive and detailed evaluation conducted by a trained psychologist to help you understand complex psychological disorders or conditions. This type of assessment goes beyond basic or preliminary evaluations and aims to provide a thorough understanding of your diagnosis and behaviors including ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar, personality disorders, and insomnia. To schedule an appointment, go to www.SHINEMaryland.com.
Dr. Brian Richards provides Advanced Diagnostic Screenings to clients ages 17+. An advanced diagnostic screening (ADS) refers to a comprehensive and detailed evaluation conducted by a trained psychologist to help you understand complex psychological disorders or conditions. This type of assessment goes beyond basic or preliminary evaluations and aims to provide a thorough understanding of your diagnosis and behaviors including ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar, personality disorders, and insomnia. To schedule an appointment, go to www.SHINEMaryland.com.
(410) 216-1459 View (410) 216-1459
Photo of Breighone Brown, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Breighone Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21045
Are you suffering from symptoms of depression, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, autism spectrum, OCD, and/or PTSD? I'm here to help facilitate your healing process and provide a safe space to voice your deepest concerns freely. Our goal is to significantly improve your self-concept, increase a positive outlook on life, and, most importantly, feel like your best self.
Are you suffering from symptoms of depression, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, autism spectrum, OCD, and/or PTSD? I'm here to help facilitate your healing process and provide a safe space to voice your deepest concerns freely. Our goal is to significantly improve your self-concept, increase a positive outlook on life, and, most importantly, feel like your best self.
(443) 233-1075 View (443) 233-1075
Photo of Angela Alborn, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angela Alborn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MD 21045
The journey you are on is far greater than the season you are walking through. Adjusting to life in a post pandemic world has left many learning to cope with the unknown; unknown stress, unknown career paths, unknown relationships, unknown trauma, unknown sense of self. Sometimes these unknowns cause increased anxiety, depressive states, low self esteem, stress in relationships and loss of direction. You are capable of embracing your unknowns to build your new life, even if it appears to be far different than you planned. You have the power. We just need to grow it.
The journey you are on is far greater than the season you are walking through. Adjusting to life in a post pandemic world has left many learning to cope with the unknown; unknown stress, unknown career paths, unknown relationships, unknown trauma, unknown sense of self. Sometimes these unknowns cause increased anxiety, depressive states, low self esteem, stress in relationships and loss of direction. You are capable of embracing your unknowns to build your new life, even if it appears to be far different than you planned. You have the power. We just need to grow it.
(443) 565-6569 View (443) 565-6569
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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.