Bipolar Disorder Therapists in West Bloomfield, MI
![Photo of Rachel Beatty, MA, LLPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f525712c-1d4d-4a1a-bd20-ca546a5ff24f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rachel Beatty
Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Bloomfield, MI 48322 (Online Only)
I work within a broad range of mental health disorders including: anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, relationship issues, self-esteem issues, adjustment problems, grief and loss, bipolar disorder.
I work with teens and adults who are looking to improve their mental health needs. I am dedicated to helping clients achieve their mental health goals with the intention of seeking relief and finding fulfillment in their lives. It is paramount that each patient feels that they are in a comfortable and trusted environment.
I work within a broad range of mental health disorders including: anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, relationship issues, self-esteem issues, adjustment problems, grief and loss, bipolar disorder.
I work with teens and adults who are looking to improve their mental health needs. I am dedicated to helping clients achieve their mental health goals with the intention of seeking relief and finding fulfillment in their lives. It is paramount that each patient feels that they are in a comfortable and trusted environment.
![Photo of Megan Silverman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/423fa57a-5a44-4298-83a6-f30fc7a53943/3/320x400.jpeg)
Megan Silverman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Bloomfield, MI 48322 (Online Only)
Megan Silverman is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Michigan with over 10 years of experience. She serves those seeking assistance with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma/PTSD, obsessive-compulsive disorder, coping skills, grief/loss, life transitions, mental stress, self-esteem, women’s issues, behavioral issues, relationships, communication, anger, stress, sleep, career and other areas of focus. Megan works with individuals and couples.
Megan Silverman is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Michigan with over 10 years of experience. She serves those seeking assistance with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma/PTSD, obsessive-compulsive disorder, coping skills, grief/loss, life transitions, mental stress, self-esteem, women’s issues, behavioral issues, relationships, communication, anger, stress, sleep, career and other areas of focus. Megan works with individuals and couples.
![Photo of Kimberly Zuteck, MA, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a5451668-2525-482a-88fd-5a77bc134b5b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberly Zuteck
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
West Bloomfield, MI 48322 (Online Only)
I work with those struggling with anxiety, depression, relational struggles, bipolar, adjustment disorder, trauma, as well as various other diagnoses.
Altering the way we think and our daily behaviors can be an overwhelming decision to make. However, being able to achieve a healthy life balance and stability can provide us with a growth potential beyond our expectations. Therapy helps us explore ways to express ourselves more efficiently as well as to acquire coping skills to aid in alleviating ongoing personal struggles. I feel it is vital to create a comfortable, open environment in allowing my clients to convey vulnerable emotions. I achieve this through recognizing an individual’s unique needs while working collaboratively with each person.
I work with those struggling with anxiety, depression, relational struggles, bipolar, adjustment disorder, trauma, as well as various other diagnoses.
Altering the way we think and our daily behaviors can be an overwhelming decision to make. However, being able to achieve a healthy life balance and stability can provide us with a growth potential beyond our expectations. Therapy helps us explore ways to express ourselves more efficiently as well as to acquire coping skills to aid in alleviating ongoing personal struggles. I feel it is vital to create a comfortable, open environment in allowing my clients to convey vulnerable emotions. I achieve this through recognizing an individual’s unique needs while working collaboratively with each person.
![Photo of Joan F Lazar, MA, LLP, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d127c21-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have been in practice as a Psychotherapist for over 25 years working with adults, children, and adolescents, as well as families and couples. My aim is to help my clients address important issues in their lives and find new ways to make meaningful changes. I have worked in hospital settings, as well as outpatient mental health clinics. My clinical experience includes the treatment of mood disorders, depression/bipolar disorders, anxiety, anger management, family and marital relationship issues, grief and trauma, school difficulties, ADHD, and behavioral problems. I coordinate care with physicians, schools, employers, and the legal system and can administer the MMPI as needed.
I have been in practice as a Psychotherapist for over 25 years working with adults, children, and adolescents, as well as families and couples. My aim is to help my clients address important issues in their lives and find new ways to make meaningful changes. I have worked in hospital settings, as well as outpatient mental health clinics. My clinical experience includes the treatment of mood disorders, depression/bipolar disorders, anxiety, anger management, family and marital relationship issues, grief and trauma, school difficulties, ADHD, and behavioral problems. I coordinate care with physicians, schools, employers, and the legal system and can administer the MMPI as needed.
![Photo of Patricia Fridman, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c93b8ce-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Patricia Fridman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
West Bloomfield, MI 48322 (Online Only)
Areas of interest and clinical experience include the treatment of mood disorders (such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder), anger management, grief counseling, coping with illnesses, immigration and acculturation issues.
I am a psychotherapist with over 20 years of clinical experience and Certified in Family and Couples therapy. My work experience includes outpatient mental health and substance abuse treatment, hospital social work, with expertise in maternal and child healthcare, general medicine and psychiatry.
Areas of interest and clinical experience include the treatment of mood disorders (such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder), anger management, grief counseling, coping with illnesses, immigration and acculturation issues.
I am a psychotherapist with over 20 years of clinical experience and Certified in Family and Couples therapy. My work experience includes outpatient mental health and substance abuse treatment, hospital social work, with expertise in maternal and child healthcare, general medicine and psychiatry.
![Photo of Cari McCalden, MA, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ff7b605-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cari McCalden
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Not Verified Not Verified
West Bloomfield, MI 48323
I am a Clinical Psychologist and provide services in a private practice setting. I have over 20 years of experience in the field and have worked in numerous clinical settings that have provided me the ability to treat a variety of mental health issues. I have experience working with young adults, adults, and older adults in individual, group, couples and family therapy. I specialize in the areas of anxiety, panic disorders, OCD, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, relationship issues, stress management, sleep disorders, and chronic pain.
I am a Clinical Psychologist and provide services in a private practice setting. I have over 20 years of experience in the field and have worked in numerous clinical settings that have provided me the ability to treat a variety of mental health issues. I have experience working with young adults, adults, and older adults in individual, group, couples and family therapy. I specialize in the areas of anxiety, panic disorders, OCD, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, relationship issues, stress management, sleep disorders, and chronic pain.
![Photo of Rana J Abbas - Mind Balance Counseling LLC, MA, LMHC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b65b011-ade9-4e3d-be32-45371e4a162f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mind Balance Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
West Bloomfield, MI 48323
Rana is trained in the Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing approach (EMDR) which works with multiple disorders. Rana is experienced in trauma (PTSD), bipolar disorder, eating disorder, borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, phobia, ADHD, anger management, and mood disorder. In her practice, Individual counseling, family counseling, couples counseling, and LGBTQ. She is well versed and knowledgeable in several counseling techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Solution-focused therapy, Mindfulness therapy, and existential therapy.
Rana is trained in the Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing approach (EMDR) which works with multiple disorders. Rana is experienced in trauma (PTSD), bipolar disorder, eating disorder, borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, phobia, ADHD, anger management, and mood disorder. In her practice, Individual counseling, family counseling, couples counseling, and LGBTQ. She is well versed and knowledgeable in several counseling techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Solution-focused therapy, Mindfulness therapy, and existential therapy.
![Photo of Lora A Imsaiah, MA, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/78f7df14-fc7d-42d9-baf9-a18adf47ef37/1/320x400.jpeg)
In addition to helping with stress, relationships, and problem-solving, I treat depression, PTSD, adjustment issues, substance use disorders, parenting support, anxiety, mood disorders, bipolar disorders, personality disorders, and OCD as well as numerous co-occurring conditions.
In addition to therapy, I conduct diagnostic evaluations for children & adults to assess concerns including ADHD, Autism, learning deficits, and cognitive executive function deficits. I assist a diverse population overcome their depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, adjustment issues, and more. I help my clients identify clear goals and work toward them. In the process, clients gain insight, understand their thoughts and feelings, and learn new skills and techniques. I understand the importance of medication for patients and collaborate with psychiatrists to ensure the best management and comprehensive care of symptoms for my clients.
In addition to helping with stress, relationships, and problem-solving, I treat depression, PTSD, adjustment issues, substance use disorders, parenting support, anxiety, mood disorders, bipolar disorders, personality disorders, and OCD as well as numerous co-occurring conditions.
In addition to therapy, I conduct diagnostic evaluations for children & adults to assess concerns including ADHD, Autism, learning deficits, and cognitive executive function deficits. I assist a diverse population overcome their depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, adjustment issues, and more. I help my clients identify clear goals and work toward them. In the process, clients gain insight, understand their thoughts and feelings, and learn new skills and techniques. I understand the importance of medication for patients and collaborate with psychiatrists to ensure the best management and comprehensive care of symptoms for my clients.
![Photo of Introspective Counseling - Introspective Counseling, MA, LPC, CAADC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c6e331db-11d5-4761-9652-029d777f9add/1/320x400.jpeg)
Introspective Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
West Bloomfield, MI 48322
Other specialties include: bipolar disorder, trauma, chronic health issues, postpartum adjustment, life transitions, grief and stress.
Office, Telehealth, Weekend and Evening Appointments Available! We work with folks who struggle silently with the feelings of not being enough or too much; rebellious teens who are bright, quiet or outspoken AND also largely misunderstood; disillusioned parents and couples who are unhappy with the way things are but committed to getting things back on track. You are welcome here! We specialize in treating anxiety, depression, stress and trauma in BIPOC, Black and African American teens and adults. If you are considering the courageous next step toward a life of thriving, we'd be honored to partner with you on your journey.
Other specialties include: bipolar disorder, trauma, chronic health issues, postpartum adjustment, life transitions, grief and stress.
Office, Telehealth, Weekend and Evening Appointments Available! We work with folks who struggle silently with the feelings of not being enough or too much; rebellious teens who are bright, quiet or outspoken AND also largely misunderstood; disillusioned parents and couples who are unhappy with the way things are but committed to getting things back on track. You are welcome here! We specialize in treating anxiety, depression, stress and trauma in BIPOC, Black and African American teens and adults. If you are considering the courageous next step toward a life of thriving, we'd be honored to partner with you on your journey.
![Photo of Terrie Browning, LPC, CFC, DCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fce4b67-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Terrie Browning
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CFC, DCC
Verified Verified
West Bloomfield, MI 48323 (Online Only)
Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor; trained in ERP, Certified Forensic Consultant, Credentialed Telehealth, with specialization in Counseling Psychology. I offer GOAL ORIENTED THERAPIES for adults and adolescents. I am passionate about the mind/body connection and use CBT, ACT, DBT along with mindfulness to increases awareness, create necessary habit changes, improve relationships both personal and professional and maintain a healthy balance in your life. If you are tired of being stuck, repeating certain patterns or themes, I will work along side you to resolve past issues and start living the life you dream about.
Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor; trained in ERP, Certified Forensic Consultant, Credentialed Telehealth, with specialization in Counseling Psychology. I offer GOAL ORIENTED THERAPIES for adults and adolescents. I am passionate about the mind/body connection and use CBT, ACT, DBT along with mindfulness to increases awareness, create necessary habit changes, improve relationships both personal and professional and maintain a healthy balance in your life. If you are tired of being stuck, repeating certain patterns or themes, I will work along side you to resolve past issues and start living the life you dream about.
![Photo of Heidi Stamper, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d00191b1-d899-4f1a-a5a1-d0476b9b31ce/1/320x400.jpeg)
When speaking with people about finding a therapist, I like to compare the process to finding the right hairdresser or making a new friend: If someone doesn’t match what you’re looking for or help you envision and plan for a healthier or more fulfilling life, then move on to the next one! Therapy is very personal, and I take a person-centered approach. My own experiences as a survivor of postpartum mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) - as well as firsthand knowledge of and experience in coping with family adjustment issues and addiction in loved ones – provide me the insight needed to have meaningful sessions with my clients.
When speaking with people about finding a therapist, I like to compare the process to finding the right hairdresser or making a new friend: If someone doesn’t match what you’re looking for or help you envision and plan for a healthier or more fulfilling life, then move on to the next one! Therapy is very personal, and I take a person-centered approach. My own experiences as a survivor of postpartum mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) - as well as firsthand knowledge of and experience in coping with family adjustment issues and addiction in loved ones – provide me the insight needed to have meaningful sessions with my clients.
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![Photo of Richard C Weaver, MA, LPC, NCC, CAMS, II, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d585e66-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Richard C Weaver
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CAMS, II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Bloomfield, MI 48324
Are you searching to find answers and for some reason, you're not finding the outcomes or resolutions for making your life better? Positive change can be difficult to achieve. Let me be the therapist assisting you through you life's challenging transitions. I can provide counseling that will give you the tools to better navigate through life's dilemmas. I treat adults and adolescents who are struggling through a variety of issues that are problematic for their current life's circumstances. Issues may include depression, anxiety, male and female issues, trauma, substance abuse, sexuality issues, and developmental transitions.
Are you searching to find answers and for some reason, you're not finding the outcomes or resolutions for making your life better? Positive change can be difficult to achieve. Let me be the therapist assisting you through you life's challenging transitions. I can provide counseling that will give you the tools to better navigate through life's dilemmas. I treat adults and adolescents who are struggling through a variety of issues that are problematic for their current life's circumstances. Issues may include depression, anxiety, male and female issues, trauma, substance abuse, sexuality issues, and developmental transitions.
![Photo of Jeanne Steuer, LCSW, ACSW, C-DBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b4babe5f-8bb8-433c-ba3b-23f543773373/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jeanne Steuer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, C-DBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Bloomfield, MI 48323
Welcome to A Brighter Day Counseling & Support Services, PLLC. Are you looking for a safe, calm, non-judgmental space to let out all that you are thinking and feeling? Are you ready to let go of those nagging intrusive thoughts that just won't go away? Are you ready to take charge of your happiness and own it? Are you ready to make your therapy journey transformative? Whether you are suffering from anxiety; depression; anger; bi-polar; spousal/significant other relationships; intimacy concerns; family relationships; parent/child relationships; I would like to help you.
Welcome to A Brighter Day Counseling & Support Services, PLLC. Are you looking for a safe, calm, non-judgmental space to let out all that you are thinking and feeling? Are you ready to let go of those nagging intrusive thoughts that just won't go away? Are you ready to take charge of your happiness and own it? Are you ready to make your therapy journey transformative? Whether you are suffering from anxiety; depression; anger; bi-polar; spousal/significant other relationships; intimacy concerns; family relationships; parent/child relationships; I would like to help you.
![Photo of Lisa Kruman, LMSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c04570e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you struggling with emotions that interfere with your ability to feel happiness and a sense of well-being? Are you dealing with feelings or circumstances that impact your daily life? Making the decision for support can be a very difficult one, as we want to believe "we can handle it". Acknowledging an issue and reaching out for help is the first step towards feeling better.
Are you struggling with emotions that interfere with your ability to feel happiness and a sense of well-being? Are you dealing with feelings or circumstances that impact your daily life? Making the decision for support can be a very difficult one, as we want to believe "we can handle it". Acknowledging an issue and reaching out for help is the first step towards feeling better.
![Photo of Lauren George, MA, TLLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1866e190-888b-4878-a118-9ec0936766fb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lauren George
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, TLLP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Bloomfield, MI 48322
My goal as a therapist is to provide a welcoming, safe space for everyone. Using person-centered, solution-focused, CBT, and existential theories I work with my clients to help them reframe their mindset, achieve their goals, and work through trauma. Life can get challenging sometimes, but you do not have to go through it alone. I am here for you.
My goal as a therapist is to provide a welcoming, safe space for everyone. Using person-centered, solution-focused, CBT, and existential theories I work with my clients to help them reframe their mindset, achieve their goals, and work through trauma. Life can get challenging sometimes, but you do not have to go through it alone. I am here for you.
![Photo of Farah Zoabi, MA, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5bc9673c-7a25-415f-86a9-f7d21d2aea89/1/320x400.jpeg)
Farah Zoabi
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
West Bloomfield, MI 48322 (Online Only)
Central to my practice is a commitment to providing high-quality therapeutic services to individuals, couples, and families of all ages. As a psychologist, my primary goal is to offer exceptional care and support through personalized treatment plans. I am dedicated to creating a safe, non-judgmental environment where clients can openly explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. By customizing my therapeutic approach to meet each client's unique needs and goals, I aim to empower them to achieve personal growth, healing, and positive transformation.
Central to my practice is a commitment to providing high-quality therapeutic services to individuals, couples, and families of all ages. As a psychologist, my primary goal is to offer exceptional care and support through personalized treatment plans. I am dedicated to creating a safe, non-judgmental environment where clients can openly explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. By customizing my therapeutic approach to meet each client's unique needs and goals, I aim to empower them to achieve personal growth, healing, and positive transformation.
![Photo of Lori Rashty, MA, LPC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9a53f11c-5d87-4a27-867d-8996a4620550/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you concerned about the well-being of your child, adolescent, or even yourself? Do you wish to provide your loved ones with the support and care they deserve? With extensive experience spanning from 7-year-olds to adults, I specialize in treating anxiety, ADHD, depression, trauma, parenting challenges, and fostering social skills. My primary objective is to empower children, teens, and adults to achieve their utmost potential within a nurturing and compassionate atmosphere.
Are you concerned about the well-being of your child, adolescent, or even yourself? Do you wish to provide your loved ones with the support and care they deserve? With extensive experience spanning from 7-year-olds to adults, I specialize in treating anxiety, ADHD, depression, trauma, parenting challenges, and fostering social skills. My primary objective is to empower children, teens, and adults to achieve their utmost potential within a nurturing and compassionate atmosphere.
![Photo of Mead Goedert, PhD, LMSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/944264b5-c7ae-4cba-ad66-847cdf18cf4b/1/320x400.jpeg)
I believe the ideal therapist is a combination of nurturing and straightforward, and this is what I strive to embody in my work. In other words, I am sensitive and compassionate as I know life can be extremely painful and challenging. At the same time, I make every effort to "keep it real" with my patients. I try to point out things about themselves that may be difficult to hear, as sometimes this is the only way we can grow. I always maintain an emotionally supportive and environment, but you can also trust that I will be honest with you about what I'm thinking.
I believe the ideal therapist is a combination of nurturing and straightforward, and this is what I strive to embody in my work. In other words, I am sensitive and compassionate as I know life can be extremely painful and challenging. At the same time, I make every effort to "keep it real" with my patients. I try to point out things about themselves that may be difficult to hear, as sometimes this is the only way we can grow. I always maintain an emotionally supportive and environment, but you can also trust that I will be honest with you about what I'm thinking.
![Photo of Lily Eve Byrne, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1e6024f-1425-4b78-b823-ad941d6310a9/1/320x400.png)
Lily Eve Byrne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Bloomfield, MI 48322
I’m Lily Byrne, a limited licensed master social worker and your new therapist. I believe in creating and maintaining a non judgmental space. I am dedicated to supporting your mental health using the type of therapy that is best for YOU. I believe therapy should yield results! I utilize evidence based therapies in order to best support people. On top of helping people improve their mental health, I also have experience helping people through addiction. There’s help here. Please reach out. I’m hopeful to work with you!
I’m Lily Byrne, a limited licensed master social worker and your new therapist. I believe in creating and maintaining a non judgmental space. I am dedicated to supporting your mental health using the type of therapy that is best for YOU. I believe therapy should yield results! I utilize evidence based therapies in order to best support people. On top of helping people improve their mental health, I also have experience helping people through addiction. There’s help here. Please reach out. I’m hopeful to work with you!
![Photo of Jessica Martin Muirhead, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e2dc812-6d14-4ebb-be7b-1968c8edebb4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Martin Muirhead
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
West Bloomfield, MI 48323
I received my Master’s of Social Work from Michigan State University in 2016 and have experience in the residential and community mental health settings. Specialties include: Borderline Personality Disorder, Self-esteem issues, Self-harm, Anxiety Trauma/PTSD, Stress Management, Depression and other mood disorders Schizophrenia and other thought disorders, Adjustment Disorders, & Dual Diagnosis.
I received my Master’s of Social Work from Michigan State University in 2016 and have experience in the residential and community mental health settings. Specialties include: Borderline Personality Disorder, Self-esteem issues, Self-harm, Anxiety Trauma/PTSD, Stress Management, Depression and other mood disorders Schizophrenia and other thought disorders, Adjustment Disorders, & Dual Diagnosis.
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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.