Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Grosse Ile, MI

Photo of Megan Reedy, PhD, LMSW, CTRP
Megan Reedy
Master Social Worker, PhD, LMSW, CTRP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grosse Ile, MI 48138
As the owner of Collective Mind, I specialize in Psychoanalytic therapy, drawing on my Doctorate level training from the Chicago Institute of Clinical Social Work Psychodynamic studies. My approach is modern and accessible, tailored to adults, teens, and couples seeking deeper, more meaningful therapy. Many clients come to me after finding other therapies too surface-level or lacking in impact. I believe that effective psychotherapy involves uncovering lost or hidden parts of ourselves is a process that demands deep intervention. Finding a therapist who offers a safe, non-assuming space is key to truly uncovering the unconscious.
As the owner of Collective Mind, I specialize in Psychoanalytic therapy, drawing on my Doctorate level training from the Chicago Institute of Clinical Social Work Psychodynamic studies. My approach is modern and accessible, tailored to adults, teens, and couples seeking deeper, more meaningful therapy. Many clients come to me after finding other therapies too surface-level or lacking in impact. I believe that effective psychotherapy involves uncovering lost or hidden parts of ourselves is a process that demands deep intervention. Finding a therapist who offers a safe, non-assuming space is key to truly uncovering the unconscious.
(313) 251-4876 View (313) 251-4876
Photo of Kathryn Miller Reilly - Counseling & Resource Center of Dearborn, PhD, Psychologist
Counseling & Resource Center of Dearborn
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Grosse Ile, MI 48138
Individual & Family Help for Family Stress, Couples Stress, Anxiety, and Depression. We offer support for parenting, couples, and teens. We want to help you and your family grow and learn, including effectively handling problems as they arise. Call to schedule an appointment now.
Individual & Family Help for Family Stress, Couples Stress, Anxiety, and Depression. We offer support for parenting, couples, and teens. We want to help you and your family grow and learn, including effectively handling problems as they arise. Call to schedule an appointment now.
(313) 427-9907 View (313) 427-9907
Photo of Reyma Bazzi, LLPC, Counselor
Reyma Bazzi
Counselor, LLPC
Verified Verified
Grosse Ile, MI 48138
Hello, I focus on women's issues and currently see female clients only. Did you know that taking the step to look for a therapist is one of the scariest parts of seeking mental health services? You've made it so far already! Now lets get better acquainted so that I may assist you to become the best version of yourself that you can be! As a Limited Licensed Professional Counselor I incorporate empathy, psychoeducation, and empowerment into my therapeutic work. I prefer to adopt a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Person-Centered approach and believe firmly that therapy is a shared journey between the client and therapist.
Hello, I focus on women's issues and currently see female clients only. Did you know that taking the step to look for a therapist is one of the scariest parts of seeking mental health services? You've made it so far already! Now lets get better acquainted so that I may assist you to become the best version of yourself that you can be! As a Limited Licensed Professional Counselor I incorporate empathy, psychoeducation, and empowerment into my therapeutic work. I prefer to adopt a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Person-Centered approach and believe firmly that therapy is a shared journey between the client and therapist.
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Photo of Kevin William Rose, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kevin William Rose
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grosse Ile, MI 48138
Accepting new clients. Are you tired of feeling unmotivated, hopeless and without any energy. Are you tired of feeling anxious, tense, edgy and worried all the time. Do you want to feel better about yourself and improve your relationships. In your sessions, you will get the support and encouragement along with practical strategies to help you get on the road to recovery. I am also now offering EMDR services which is an evidenced based treatment for people who have experienced trauma. This has produced amazing results. Call now and be seen within 7 days.
Accepting new clients. Are you tired of feeling unmotivated, hopeless and without any energy. Are you tired of feeling anxious, tense, edgy and worried all the time. Do you want to feel better about yourself and improve your relationships. In your sessions, you will get the support and encouragement along with practical strategies to help you get on the road to recovery. I am also now offering EMDR services which is an evidenced based treatment for people who have experienced trauma. This has produced amazing results. Call now and be seen within 7 days.
(248) 654-8245 View (248) 654-8245
Photo of Candice Driscoll, MA, LPC, Counselor
Candice Driscoll
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grosse Ile, MI 48138
Hello, my name is Candice! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have experience working in an integrated health care agency and in private practice. I have worked with people of all ages that are dealing with a large variety of mental health challenges. When you come to see me, you are entering an inclusive and safe space that is free from judgement. You are encouraged to be your true authentic self in my office. Therapy looks different for everyone and there is no cookie-cutter style of counseling.
Hello, my name is Candice! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have experience working in an integrated health care agency and in private practice. I have worked with people of all ages that are dealing with a large variety of mental health challenges. When you come to see me, you are entering an inclusive and safe space that is free from judgement. You are encouraged to be your true authentic self in my office. Therapy looks different for everyone and there is no cookie-cutter style of counseling.
(734) 876-8445 View (734) 876-8445
Photo of Margaret Blevins, JD, MA, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Margaret Blevins
Limited Licensed Psychologist, JD, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Grosse Ile, MI 48138
We live in a world where social media and feeling the need to present the perfect picture of one's life has left many people feeling alone and empty. I believe every person can dive within and find true happiness if they allow themselves to. When you find yourself in need of help with those hard moments in life, it can be beneficial to find a professional to guide you on your path. No one knows yourself better than you do, and my degree doesn't make me an expert on you, but it can helpme to help you manage core troubling issues of trauma, anxiety, depression, social phobia, grief, life transitions and relationship issues.
We live in a world where social media and feeling the need to present the perfect picture of one's life has left many people feeling alone and empty. I believe every person can dive within and find true happiness if they allow themselves to. When you find yourself in need of help with those hard moments in life, it can be beneficial to find a professional to guide you on your path. No one knows yourself better than you do, and my degree doesn't make me an expert on you, but it can helpme to help you manage core troubling issues of trauma, anxiety, depression, social phobia, grief, life transitions and relationship issues.
(734) 219-0744 View (734) 219-0744
Photo of Avery L. Lewis, LLPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Avery L. Lewis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LLPC
Verified Verified
Grosse Ile, MI 48138
Hello! My name is Avery. I am a Limited Licensed Professional Counselor who incorporates inclusivity, empathy, education, and empowerment within my therapeutic work. I work with children, adolescents, and adults experiencing a range of challenges such as depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, abuse, self-esteem issues, identity and sexuality issues, and relationship issues. Professionally, I also have experience as a technician facilitating therapeutic groups within an inpatient psychiatric setting as well as being an outpatient therapist. My motto for the clients I am privileged to work with is, "Come as you are."
Hello! My name is Avery. I am a Limited Licensed Professional Counselor who incorporates inclusivity, empathy, education, and empowerment within my therapeutic work. I work with children, adolescents, and adults experiencing a range of challenges such as depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, abuse, self-esteem issues, identity and sexuality issues, and relationship issues. Professionally, I also have experience as a technician facilitating therapeutic groups within an inpatient psychiatric setting as well as being an outpatient therapist. My motto for the clients I am privileged to work with is, "Come as you are."
(734) 359-6932 View (734) 359-6932
Photo of Emily Wezner-Stepaniak - The Therapy Collective of Michigan, Licensed Professional Counselor
The Therapy Collective of Michigan
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Grosse Ile, MI 48138
Here at TCM, we prioritize the mind + body connection, as mental health IS physical health.  We are a statewide mental health practice that serves clients all over Michigan. With locations in both Wayne and Ottawa counties, you can visit us in person in Wyandotte and Jenison. Our clinicians also provide virtual therapy services, so no matter where in the Mitten State you're located, we can help!
Here at TCM, we prioritize the mind + body connection, as mental health IS physical health.  We are a statewide mental health practice that serves clients all over Michigan. With locations in both Wayne and Ottawa counties, you can visit us in person in Wyandotte and Jenison. Our clinicians also provide virtual therapy services, so no matter where in the Mitten State you're located, we can help!
(734) 361-2808 View (734) 361-2808
Photo of Jamie Mcnally - Sycamore Counseling Services (& LLPC Supervision), MA, LLP, LPC, PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sycamore Counseling Services (& LLPC Supervision)
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LLP, LPC, PhD
Verified Verified
Grosse Ile, MI 48138
Life is hard. It is also beautiful. At Sycamore, our sole purpose is to help our clients discover the freedom and joy that comes from living a more abundant life. Sycamore Counseling Services exists because every single day there are those of us who need hope...healing...happiness. We believe that people deserve to be truly seen, that we are all capable of greater things than we could ever imagine, and that every human being is valuable, We believe that pain may never be forgotten, but it can be transformed. We believe that it is possible for YOUR life to be more defined by its beauty than its pain.
Life is hard. It is also beautiful. At Sycamore, our sole purpose is to help our clients discover the freedom and joy that comes from living a more abundant life. Sycamore Counseling Services exists because every single day there are those of us who need hope...healing...happiness. We believe that people deserve to be truly seen, that we are all capable of greater things than we could ever imagine, and that every human being is valuable, We believe that pain may never be forgotten, but it can be transformed. We believe that it is possible for YOUR life to be more defined by its beauty than its pain.
(734) 336-1366 View (734) 336-1366
Photo of Michel Lynn DeJulian, LMSW-CM, ACSW, SSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michel Lynn DeJulian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-CM, ACSW, SSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grosse Ile, MI 48138
Not accepting new clients
I am licensed in Michigan with 30 years of professional work experience with children, adolescents, young adults and families. My areas of expertise are in managing Anxiety disorders including Panic Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and Generalized Anxiety. I have supported and coached hundreds of children on the Autism Spectrum and those with ADHD also. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
I am licensed in Michigan with 30 years of professional work experience with children, adolescents, young adults and families. My areas of expertise are in managing Anxiety disorders including Panic Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and Generalized Anxiety. I have supported and coached hundreds of children on the Autism Spectrum and those with ADHD also. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
(734) 999-4615 View (734) 999-4615

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Amy Plettner, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Plettner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Taylor, MI 48180  (Online Only)
“You don’t have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.” -Martin Luther King Jr. Are you feeling stuck? Don’t know where to turn? Taking the first step in getting help takes courage. I am here to help you take the next steps in your journey of healing. I am licensed masters social worker in Michigan with 5 years of professional work experience. I enjoy helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, OCD, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I value every person’s human worth and believe all should be treated equally.
“You don’t have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.” -Martin Luther King Jr. Are you feeling stuck? Don’t know where to turn? Taking the first step in getting help takes courage. I am here to help you take the next steps in your journey of healing. I am licensed masters social worker in Michigan with 5 years of professional work experience. I enjoy helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, OCD, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I value every person’s human worth and believe all should be treated equally.
(906) 287-4520 View (906) 287-4520
Photo of Chidinma Okogbue, PMHNP
Chidinma Okogbue
PMHNP
Verified Verified
Taylor, MI 48180  (Online Only)
I have experience in managing anxiety, depression, ODD, Bipolar disorder, OCD, psychosis, ADHD, as well as other mental health conditions.
I'm Chidinma E. Okogbue, your dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. With a heartfelt commitment to nurturing mental well-being, I have had 24 years of healthcare experience, and I bring over two years of specialized experience to support individuals through their mental health journeys. I am board-certified by the ANCC and hold multiple licenses across Michigan, Indiana, and Florida. My educational background includes a master's degree from Eastern Kentucky University and a bachelor's from Grand Canyon University, both in Nursing with a focus on psychiatric care.
I have experience in managing anxiety, depression, ODD, Bipolar disorder, OCD, psychosis, ADHD, as well as other mental health conditions.
I'm Chidinma E. Okogbue, your dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. With a heartfelt commitment to nurturing mental well-being, I have had 24 years of healthcare experience, and I bring over two years of specialized experience to support individuals through their mental health journeys. I am board-certified by the ANCC and hold multiple licenses across Michigan, Indiana, and Florida. My educational background includes a master's degree from Eastern Kentucky University and a bachelor's from Grand Canyon University, both in Nursing with a focus on psychiatric care.
(734) 766-7474 View (734) 766-7474
Photo of Deborah E Cody, LMSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deborah E Cody
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southgate, MI 48195  (Online Only)
I have experience working with anxiety, ADHD, depression, bipolar disorder, grief, PTSD, personality disorders, substance use disorders, interpersonal relationship issues and more.
Are you are dealing with difficulty coping with grief, relationship or job related turmoil, mental health issues, low self-esteem or feeling overwhelmed by the state of the world? If so, I am able to meet you where you are at and provide a safe space to work through these life stressors. My intention as your therapist is to do recovery work in a secure environment that will allow you to move through past trauma and gain a better understanding of yourself. Let's work together to create a treatment plan that is fit to your unique and individual needs!
I have experience working with anxiety, ADHD, depression, bipolar disorder, grief, PTSD, personality disorders, substance use disorders, interpersonal relationship issues and more.
Are you are dealing with difficulty coping with grief, relationship or job related turmoil, mental health issues, low self-esteem or feeling overwhelmed by the state of the world? If so, I am able to meet you where you are at and provide a safe space to work through these life stressors. My intention as your therapist is to do recovery work in a secure environment that will allow you to move through past trauma and gain a better understanding of yourself. Let's work together to create a treatment plan that is fit to your unique and individual needs!
(734) 270-6371 View (734) 270-6371
Photo of Jacqueline Boboescu, MSN,  PMHNP-
Jacqueline Boboescu
MSN, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
Southgate, MI 48195
Jackie Boboescu, PMHNP, is dedicated to actively listening to her patients and empathizing with their unique situations. Practicing in Michigan, Jackie focuses on providing individualized care to help clients achieve their mental health goals. She serves a diverse range of age groups, including children, adolescents, adults, and seniors, ensuring that each person receives the support they need at every stage of life. Jackie is particularly passionate about treating ADHD, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
Jackie Boboescu, PMHNP, is dedicated to actively listening to her patients and empathizing with their unique situations. Practicing in Michigan, Jackie focuses on providing individualized care to help clients achieve their mental health goals. She serves a diverse range of age groups, including children, adolescents, adults, and seniors, ensuring that each person receives the support they need at every stage of life. Jackie is particularly passionate about treating ADHD, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
(734) 724-6872 View (734) 724-6872
Photo of Leonard Uchendu, L, M, S, W, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leonard Uchendu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, L, M, S, W
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Taylor, MI 48180  (Online Only)
I am specialized in Sex Addiction, Substance Use Disorder, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, impulsiveness, chronic pain, trauma, Grief and Loss issues, Bipolar Disorder and Borderline Personality disorder, relationship conflicts etc.
I understand the daunting task of seeking help. I commend you for your courage to reach out to me for help. You desire therapy because you may be experiencing the following problems: Trauma, Depression,Anxiety, Addiction, Grief and Loss, Chronic Pain, suicide/self-injurious behaviors, interpersonal conflicts and othe psychological difficulties. Certainly, you would like to get to the bottom of your feelings, gain insights, deepen sense of self and self-integration. My therapy room will provide you a safe space to be yourself. I will meet you where you with zero judgment, empathetic ear and evidence based practice.
I am specialized in Sex Addiction, Substance Use Disorder, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, impulsiveness, chronic pain, trauma, Grief and Loss issues, Bipolar Disorder and Borderline Personality disorder, relationship conflicts etc.
I understand the daunting task of seeking help. I commend you for your courage to reach out to me for help. You desire therapy because you may be experiencing the following problems: Trauma, Depression,Anxiety, Addiction, Grief and Loss, Chronic Pain, suicide/self-injurious behaviors, interpersonal conflicts and othe psychological difficulties. Certainly, you would like to get to the bottom of your feelings, gain insights, deepen sense of self and self-integration. My therapy room will provide you a safe space to be yourself. I will meet you where you with zero judgment, empathetic ear and evidence based practice.
(517) 684-2907 View (517) 684-2907
Photo of Heather Allison Herrick - On the Bright Side Counseling, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
On the Bright Side Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Trenton, MI 48183
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Social Worker with 20 years of clinical experience and 15 years of school social work experience. I enjoy working with children, adolescents and families, as well as individual adults and couples. I can help navigate through major and minor life changes and illnesses. I have expertise in behavior planning for children and families. My years of experience include working with ADHD, ODD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Autism Spectrum Disorders, attachment, grief and loss, divorce, and changing family structures; including step-parenting, same-sex parenting and foster-parenting. I have also worked with youth and adults navigating sexual orientation, gender expression and relationships.
I am a Social Worker with 20 years of clinical experience and 15 years of school social work experience. I enjoy working with children, adolescents and families, as well as individual adults and couples. I can help navigate through major and minor life changes and illnesses. I have expertise in behavior planning for children and families. My years of experience include working with ADHD, ODD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Autism Spectrum Disorders, attachment, grief and loss, divorce, and changing family structures; including step-parenting, same-sex parenting and foster-parenting. I have also worked with youth and adults navigating sexual orientation, gender expression and relationships.
(734) 767-0185 View (734) 767-0185
Photo of Bethany Petrous, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bethany Petrous
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Allen Park, MI 48101  (Online Only)
If you are experiencing anxiety, trauma, depression, bipolar disorder, grief, difficulties in relationships, low self-esteem, life transitions, stress, or anger management I am here to help you.
Therapy can be an empowering journey of self-discovery and healing which can be used as an opportunity to understand ourselves. Experiences can affect how we view ourselves and the world, this can cause difficultly discussing our past and current stressors. You can expect an empathetic, non-biased, and warm approach to therapy without judgement. We will work together to accomplish your goals and work through your life challenges so you can become the best version of you in a safe space.
If you are experiencing anxiety, trauma, depression, bipolar disorder, grief, difficulties in relationships, low self-esteem, life transitions, stress, or anger management I am here to help you.
Therapy can be an empowering journey of self-discovery and healing which can be used as an opportunity to understand ourselves. Experiences can affect how we view ourselves and the world, this can cause difficultly discussing our past and current stressors. You can expect an empathetic, non-biased, and warm approach to therapy without judgement. We will work together to accomplish your goals and work through your life challenges so you can become the best version of you in a safe space.
(810) 428-0406 View (810) 428-0406
Photo of Jennifer Lewis - Transcending Hope Institute, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Transcending Hope Institute
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southgate, MI 48195
We offer mental health services to address depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar disorders, borderline personality disorders, substance use, and more.
Our focus is to offer hope, help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan to help you build a life worth living.
We offer mental health services to address depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar disorders, borderline personality disorders, substance use, and more.
Our focus is to offer hope, help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan to help you build a life worth living.
(313) 217-3516 View (313) 217-3516
Photo of Kristi Wandrie-Biundo, L-CMHC, CCATP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristi Wandrie-Biundo
Licensed Professional Counselor, L-CMHC, CCATP
Verified Verified
Wyandotte, MI 48192
My clinical and work experience include working in a hospital psychiatric unit with all dynamics of mental health issues, including suicidal ideation, depression, schizophrenia, substance abuse, bipolar, borderline, psychosis, domestic violence, sexual abuse, PTSD and TBI's.
I believe in a non-judgmental, person-centered, positive approach in the counseling relationship, where the client feels comfortable enough to express their feelings and thoughts while examining factors which may be causing them pain, anxiety, or unhappiness. I also believe that individuals have the power within themselves to overcome these personal barriers to attain their full potential. My goal is to support you and give you tools to use along the way, and also in your future. There is light at the end of what may seem a dark tunnel, but together we will work to get you there.
My clinical and work experience include working in a hospital psychiatric unit with all dynamics of mental health issues, including suicidal ideation, depression, schizophrenia, substance abuse, bipolar, borderline, psychosis, domestic violence, sexual abuse, PTSD and TBI's.
I believe in a non-judgmental, person-centered, positive approach in the counseling relationship, where the client feels comfortable enough to express their feelings and thoughts while examining factors which may be causing them pain, anxiety, or unhappiness. I also believe that individuals have the power within themselves to overcome these personal barriers to attain their full potential. My goal is to support you and give you tools to use along the way, and also in your future. There is light at the end of what may seem a dark tunnel, but together we will work to get you there.
(734) 315-2248 View (734) 315-2248
Photo of Jamie Mallon, MSW,  LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jamie Mallon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Taylor, MI 48180
She has experience with a variety of behavioral health issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, anger management, coping with life changes, and stress.
Jamie Mallon is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Michigan who has been practicing since 2019. Jamie has a passion for working with children, adolescents, and adults to build positive coping tools, decrease negative symptoms, and increase life satisfaction. She is very open-minded and observant of her clients to help better understand what they are going through and to help find resolutions. Jamie works with her clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment.
She has experience with a variety of behavioral health issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, anger management, coping with life changes, and stress.
Jamie Mallon is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Michigan who has been practicing since 2019. Jamie has a passion for working with children, adolescents, and adults to build positive coping tools, decrease negative symptoms, and increase life satisfaction. She is very open-minded and observant of her clients to help better understand what they are going through and to help find resolutions. Jamie works with her clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment.
(734) 280-3329 View (734) 280-3329

See more therapy options for Grosse Ile

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.