Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Grandview, MO

Photo of Shantel Hams, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shantel Hams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grandview, MO 64030  (Online Only)
Life can be so complicated. The ups, downs, and all arounds can sometimes be debilitating, confusing and all out frustrating. Life’s turbulence can also make you feel you’ve lost control and perhaps has left you struggling to navigate through obstacles. I would love to partner with you to help you realize the strength and resilience you have within to overcome and to manage. I teach vital tools to use in everyday life such as stress and anger management, coping skills, and the recognization of thought patterns that may affect your behaviors and emotions.
Life can be so complicated. The ups, downs, and all arounds can sometimes be debilitating, confusing and all out frustrating. Life’s turbulence can also make you feel you’ve lost control and perhaps has left you struggling to navigate through obstacles. I would love to partner with you to help you realize the strength and resilience you have within to overcome and to manage. I teach vital tools to use in everyday life such as stress and anger management, coping skills, and the recognization of thought patterns that may affect your behaviors and emotions.
(816) 542-3763 View (816) 542-3763
Photo of Tyron Mallard, LCPC, LMSW, Counselor
Tyron Mallard
Counselor, LCPC, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grandview, MO 64030  (Online Only)
I am a firm believer that the only thing that separates a counselor/therapist from the client is a current need. With this belief, I strive to help clients through current life struggles in a non-judgmental environment. My work is informed through collaboration with clients, education, experience, and empathy. As a professional counselor and social worker, my comprehensive approach to therapy enables clients to identify and change the patterns that often create barriers to emotional, social, educational, and occupational growth.
I am a firm believer that the only thing that separates a counselor/therapist from the client is a current need. With this belief, I strive to help clients through current life struggles in a non-judgmental environment. My work is informed through collaboration with clients, education, experience, and empathy. As a professional counselor and social worker, my comprehensive approach to therapy enables clients to identify and change the patterns that often create barriers to emotional, social, educational, and occupational growth.
(913) 946-7611 View (913) 946-7611
Photo of Lennis Marvel - Counseling Services, LLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Counseling Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Grandview, MO 64030  (Online Only)
Thank you for visiting. This is the first step to becoming a more fulfilled person. I am licensed as a clinical social worker in Missouri (LCSW) with over 25 years experience working with children, families, individuals and couples in multiple settings including in-patient, in-home and private practice. I also have five years experience as an employee assistance program clinician and brief problem focused therapy.
Thank you for visiting. This is the first step to becoming a more fulfilled person. I am licensed as a clinical social worker in Missouri (LCSW) with over 25 years experience working with children, families, individuals and couples in multiple settings including in-patient, in-home and private practice. I also have five years experience as an employee assistance program clinician and brief problem focused therapy.
(816) 479-5046 View (816) 479-5046
Photo of Jerald Payne - Cognitions: Anxiety/Depression Treatment Services
Cognitions: Anxiety/Depression Treatment Services
Verified Verified
Grandview, MO 64030
Adolescent and adult clients seeking group treatment for depression, adjustment disorders and anxiety (generalized anxiety, social anxiety etc.).
Adolescent and adult clients seeking group treatment for depression, adjustment disorders and anxiety (generalized anxiety, social anxiety etc.).
(816) 327-9134 View (816) 327-9134

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Rachael Julstrom, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachael Julstrom
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Lees Summit, MO 64065
I specialize in treating disorders that have Big Emotions attached to them such as Post-traumatic Stress, Borderline Personality, and BiPolar Disorders.
Book Online 24/7- 16 and older (In-person & Online) Everyone has a story they need to process. Often times when we are not heard it leads to BIG Emotions that do not know where to go. I meet you where you are and work with what is working and build from there.
I specialize in treating disorders that have Big Emotions attached to them such as Post-traumatic Stress, Borderline Personality, and BiPolar Disorders.
Book Online 24/7- 16 and older (In-person & Online) Everyone has a story they need to process. Often times when we are not heard it leads to BIG Emotions that do not know where to go. I meet you where you are and work with what is working and build from there.
(816) 323-8299 View (816) 323-8299
Photo of Rachael Julstrom, LCPC, Counselor
Rachael Julstrom
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64145
I specialize in treating disorders that have Big Emotions attached to them such as Post-traumatic Stress, Borderline Personality, and BiPolar Disorders.
Book Online 24/7- 18 and older (In-person & Online) Everyone has a story they need to process. Often times when we are not heard it leads to BIG Emotions that do not know where to go. I meet you where you are and work with what is working and build from there.
I specialize in treating disorders that have Big Emotions attached to them such as Post-traumatic Stress, Borderline Personality, and BiPolar Disorders.
Book Online 24/7- 18 and older (In-person & Online) Everyone has a story they need to process. Often times when we are not heard it leads to BIG Emotions that do not know where to go. I meet you where you are and work with what is working and build from there.
(913) 733-0838 View (913) 733-0838
Photo of Dr. Nadin R Rizk [Autism Testing Adhd Testing], PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Nadin R Rizk [Autism Testing Adhd Testing]
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64110
Examples of psychological evaluations conducted at Rizk Assessment & Psychological Services, LLC (RAPS): Diagnostic Clarification to assess for the presences of depression, OCD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD • ADHD assessment • Autism Spectrum Disorder evaluations • Educational screeners (IQ and Achievement) • Personality assessments •.
Dr. Nadin Rizk specializes in conducting psychological evaluations with adults, adolescents, children, and toddlers who are exhibiting signs of Autism using the gold standard for diagnosing Autism, the ADOS-2.
Examples of psychological evaluations conducted at Rizk Assessment & Psychological Services, LLC (RAPS): Diagnostic Clarification to assess for the presences of depression, OCD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD • ADHD assessment • Autism Spectrum Disorder evaluations • Educational screeners (IQ and Achievement) • Personality assessments •.
Dr. Nadin Rizk specializes in conducting psychological evaluations with adults, adolescents, children, and toddlers who are exhibiting signs of Autism using the gold standard for diagnosing Autism, the ADOS-2.
(816) 693-6726 View (816) 693-6726
Photo of Taylor Magruder, MS, PLPC
Taylor Magruder
MS, PLPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64114
I also have experience working with Bipolar Disorder, OCD, grief, PTSD, body image issues, relationship issues, and life transitions.
I always say its important to go 'therapist shopping', because finding someone who you truly connect with will play a huge part in just how impactful therapy can be for you. Recognizing your need for support and starting therapy can be hard to do, which is why it is my goal to make you feel accepted and empowered as you take these important steps. Whether you are struggling with relationships, people pleasing, self-esteem, or just managing all of the crazy things life throws your way, I am committed to providing a safe space where you feel seen, heard, and understood.
I also have experience working with Bipolar Disorder, OCD, grief, PTSD, body image issues, relationship issues, and life transitions.
I always say its important to go 'therapist shopping', because finding someone who you truly connect with will play a huge part in just how impactful therapy can be for you. Recognizing your need for support and starting therapy can be hard to do, which is why it is my goal to make you feel accepted and empowered as you take these important steps. Whether you are struggling with relationships, people pleasing, self-esteem, or just managing all of the crazy things life throws your way, I am committed to providing a safe space where you feel seen, heard, and understood.
(816) 339-4685 View (816) 339-4685
Photo of Luke Partain, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Luke Partain
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64131  (Online Only)
I know that finding a competent therapist that you connect with can be tough. I believe I can help. I have worked in outpatient and inpatient hospital settings with younger and older adults. I use a number of different skills found in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to guide therapy. I am currently certified in DBT and Addictions. My clients and I have discussed and worked on issues including addiction, anxiety, bipolar disorder, codependency, depression, dual diagnosis, grief, life transitions, life meaning, relationship/family issues, self-esteem, substance use, trauma, and PTSD.
I know that finding a competent therapist that you connect with can be tough. I believe I can help. I have worked in outpatient and inpatient hospital settings with younger and older adults. I use a number of different skills found in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to guide therapy. I am currently certified in DBT and Addictions. My clients and I have discussed and worked on issues including addiction, anxiety, bipolar disorder, codependency, depression, dual diagnosis, grief, life transitions, life meaning, relationship/family issues, self-esteem, substance use, trauma, and PTSD.
(816) 357-9153 View (816) 357-9153
Photo of Nicholas JORDAN, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicholas JORDAN
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64110
My areas of expertise are trauma and ptsd, chronic illness and physical disabilities, stress, substance use or addiction, and mood disorders (depression, anxiety, bipolar, etc.). I am a secular therapist and provide telehealth services throughout Missouri and in person services in Kansas City, MO. Additionally, I have experience in working with chronic pain, burnout, existential, identity, and career concerns. I also have extensive experience working with other helping or health professionals including other therapists, nurses, social workers, among a variety of other clinicians.
My areas of expertise are trauma and ptsd, chronic illness and physical disabilities, stress, substance use or addiction, and mood disorders (depression, anxiety, bipolar, etc.). I am a secular therapist and provide telehealth services throughout Missouri and in person services in Kansas City, MO. Additionally, I have experience in working with chronic pain, burnout, existential, identity, and career concerns. I also have extensive experience working with other helping or health professionals including other therapists, nurses, social workers, among a variety of other clinicians.
(816) 319-0784 View (816) 319-0784
Photo of Mary Marshall, PhD, Psychologist
Mary Marshall
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64111  (Online Only)
Dr. Marshall offers an empowering interactive process in a confidential relaxed setting designed to help you move through the stages of change and address underlying issues, not just symptoms. Natural holistic healing, cognitive behavioral therapy, nutrition, skill building, education, stress reduction-management can be part of your treatment plan focused on concerns causing you distress that can result from dysfunctional personal or work relationships, victimization, divorce and blended family, anger mismanagement, addictive behavior, toxic environments, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, bipolar, other disorders or health conditions, low self-esteem, trauma, social phobia, or performance anxiety.
Dr. Marshall offers an empowering interactive process in a confidential relaxed setting designed to help you move through the stages of change and address underlying issues, not just symptoms. Natural holistic healing, cognitive behavioral therapy, nutrition, skill building, education, stress reduction-management can be part of your treatment plan focused on concerns causing you distress that can result from dysfunctional personal or work relationships, victimization, divorce and blended family, anger mismanagement, addictive behavior, toxic environments, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, bipolar, other disorders or health conditions, low self-esteem, trauma, social phobia, or performance anxiety.
(913) 439-5115 View (913) 439-5115
Photo of Emily Tarby, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Tarby
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Lees Summit, MO 64082  (Online Only)
I have experience working with individuals and couples from all types of backgrounds who struggle with symptoms of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, relationship concerns, career concerns, life transitions, anger management, identity exploration and more.
ONLINE-only visits. Hi! If you’re ready to process your experiences, explore your mind, and learn ways to cope with life, then I’m your gal! I aim to provide a comfortable, supportive space for you to work through difficult thoughts, feelings, and beliefs. Together, we’ll explore your experiences, work to understand your emotions, change negative thinking, address problem behaviors, and help you find relief using various interventions and techniques. I like to provide exploration, challenge, support, and encouragement.
I have experience working with individuals and couples from all types of backgrounds who struggle with symptoms of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, relationship concerns, career concerns, life transitions, anger management, identity exploration and more.
ONLINE-only visits. Hi! If you’re ready to process your experiences, explore your mind, and learn ways to cope with life, then I’m your gal! I aim to provide a comfortable, supportive space for you to work through difficult thoughts, feelings, and beliefs. Together, we’ll explore your experiences, work to understand your emotions, change negative thinking, address problem behaviors, and help you find relief using various interventions and techniques. I like to provide exploration, challenge, support, and encouragement.
(573) 367-5272 View (573) 367-5272
Photo of Julie Kaufmanschmidt, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julie Kaufmanschmidt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64114
Welcome! I would love to work with you to improve your life. I've helped many people with personal growth issues. I've seen clients improve from the curve balls life has thrown at them like infidelity, health issues, infertility, and grief. I've helped clients improve their functioning while dealing with severe diagnoses of depression, bipolar and anxiety. Family peace can be restored between parents and children.
Welcome! I would love to work with you to improve your life. I've helped many people with personal growth issues. I've seen clients improve from the curve balls life has thrown at them like infidelity, health issues, infertility, and grief. I've helped clients improve their functioning while dealing with severe diagnoses of depression, bipolar and anxiety. Family peace can be restored between parents and children.
(816) 307-0696 View (816) 307-0696
Photo of Emily J Towner, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily J Towner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64114
I treat all sorts of mental disorders including depression, anxiety, panic, OCD, PTSD, Adult Aspergers Syndrome, Bipolar Disorder, Substance abuse, relationship and family issues.
Mental health is part of your physical health. You cannot have one without the other. No one is exempt from facing mental health struggles at one time or another in their life. It is not uncommon during times of mental health struggles, either it be an isolated incident of panic, short-term and long-term anxiety, tragedy, situational depression, or circumstances that were out of your control that caused you to have a "new normal." Therapy will alleviate these stressors through a process of personal insight, change, and opening your eyes to a new way of seeing your life and how you react to it.
I treat all sorts of mental disorders including depression, anxiety, panic, OCD, PTSD, Adult Aspergers Syndrome, Bipolar Disorder, Substance abuse, relationship and family issues.
Mental health is part of your physical health. You cannot have one without the other. No one is exempt from facing mental health struggles at one time or another in their life. It is not uncommon during times of mental health struggles, either it be an isolated incident of panic, short-term and long-term anxiety, tragedy, situational depression, or circumstances that were out of your control that caused you to have a "new normal." Therapy will alleviate these stressors through a process of personal insight, change, and opening your eyes to a new way of seeing your life and how you react to it.
(816) 565-4270 View (816) 565-4270
Photo of Alexandra Ross, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alexandra Ross
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64110
Waitlist for new clients
Hi! I'm Alex, a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Missouri. I utilize a variety of science-based theories and techniques, such as DBT and EMDR, that have been clinically shown to help people change, experience relief from suffering, and improve their lives. I have extensive experience working with trauma, cPTSD and PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Adult Autism, Anxiety, Depression, and Dissociative Identity Disorder. By offering unconditional acceptance and support, I provide a safe space for us to work together so that you can reach your goals.
Hi! I'm Alex, a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Missouri. I utilize a variety of science-based theories and techniques, such as DBT and EMDR, that have been clinically shown to help people change, experience relief from suffering, and improve their lives. I have extensive experience working with trauma, cPTSD and PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Adult Autism, Anxiety, Depression, and Dissociative Identity Disorder. By offering unconditional acceptance and support, I provide a safe space for us to work together so that you can reach your goals.
(816) 200-0582 View (816) 200-0582
Photo of Sarah Evelyn West-Effland, MSW, LCSW, CCGC, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Evelyn West-Effland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCGC, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Lees Summit, MO 64086
I have experience treating anxiety, trauma,depression, bipolar mood disorder, life adjustment, grief and loss, care-giving issues, self esteem, stress, postpartum depression, compulsive gambling, family members dealing with addiction, dual diagnosis, and anger management.
I believe that everyone has the potential to grow and learn. Friends and family are great support at times, but sometimes people can benefit from more. I often tell people therapy is a little bit like having a coach. It is someone to set goals with, someone to hold you accountable, someone to cheer you on and help you navigate the road map of life. It is my goal to help you get on the track that is best suited for you and your family, and come up with a plan to help you stay the course!
I have experience treating anxiety, trauma,depression, bipolar mood disorder, life adjustment, grief and loss, care-giving issues, self esteem, stress, postpartum depression, compulsive gambling, family members dealing with addiction, dual diagnosis, and anger management.
I believe that everyone has the potential to grow and learn. Friends and family are great support at times, but sometimes people can benefit from more. I often tell people therapy is a little bit like having a coach. It is someone to set goals with, someone to hold you accountable, someone to cheer you on and help you navigate the road map of life. It is my goal to help you get on the track that is best suited for you and your family, and come up with a plan to help you stay the course!
(816) 298-0430 View (816) 298-0430
Photo of Reshma Freeman, LPC, LCPC, Counselor
Reshma Freeman
Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64134
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! Thank you for having the courage to seek a therapist! I work with individuals who have experienced mild to severe levels of trauma with a single diagnosis to comorbid diagnoses, such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder , Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Bipolar 1 Disorder, Anxiety Disorder, Borderline Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder, Attention Hyperactive Deficit Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, etc. Their needs are to be listened to, validated, and understood. They want to feel genuinely accepted. They want to live life to the fullest. Their goals are to receive the care needed to assist with improving quality of life.
Welcome! Thank you for having the courage to seek a therapist! I work with individuals who have experienced mild to severe levels of trauma with a single diagnosis to comorbid diagnoses, such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder , Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Bipolar 1 Disorder, Anxiety Disorder, Borderline Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder, Attention Hyperactive Deficit Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, etc. Their needs are to be listened to, validated, and understood. They want to feel genuinely accepted. They want to live life to the fullest. Their goals are to receive the care needed to assist with improving quality of life.
(913) 675-2231 View (913) 675-2231
Photo of Greg E Neubauer, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Greg E Neubauer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lees Summit, MO 64063
Serving Adults, Young Adults, Adolescents, and Children: Depression, Anxiety Disorders, Bipolar, Life Transitions, Family Therapy, Couples/Marital Counseling, Men's issues (including Fathering) ADHD, Oppositial Defiance, Grief, Trauma, OCD, PTSD, Phobias, Adjustment Disorders, Co-Occurring Autism Spectrum Disorders (Aspergers) & Co-Occurring Substance abuse.
I have over 30 years of clinical experience providing counseling therapy to adult individuals, children, adolescents, families, and couples to address their emotional and behavioral struggles. I utilize a cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, goal directed, reality based treatment approach, integrating family dynamics as needed, to help clients effectively resolve or learn to cope with their struggles. I am available to coordinate with schools and other treatment providers. My office at Truman & Main St on the Independence Square offers a convenient, unassuming, confidential, and relaxing environment.
Serving Adults, Young Adults, Adolescents, and Children: Depression, Anxiety Disorders, Bipolar, Life Transitions, Family Therapy, Couples/Marital Counseling, Men's issues (including Fathering) ADHD, Oppositial Defiance, Grief, Trauma, OCD, PTSD, Phobias, Adjustment Disorders, Co-Occurring Autism Spectrum Disorders (Aspergers) & Co-Occurring Substance abuse.
I have over 30 years of clinical experience providing counseling therapy to adult individuals, children, adolescents, families, and couples to address their emotional and behavioral struggles. I utilize a cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, goal directed, reality based treatment approach, integrating family dynamics as needed, to help clients effectively resolve or learn to cope with their struggles. I am available to coordinate with schools and other treatment providers. My office at Truman & Main St on the Independence Square offers a convenient, unassuming, confidential, and relaxing environment.
(816) 237-5524 View (816) 237-5524
Photo of Patrick P Pruitt, LCSW, LSCSW, CADC, MAC, CRADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patrick P Pruitt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW, CADC, MAC, CRADC
Verified Verified
Lees Summit, MO 64082  (Online Only)
I specialize working with people who have experienced trauma, anxiety and depressive issues, bipolar, as well as substance use disorders. I provide a judgment-free, supportive setting and aid the client in identifying their own inner strengths to help them find solutions to whatever difficulties they are experiencing. I want my clients to feel safe and valued. I provide quality services at a reasonable price on a virtual platform from the comfort and privacy of your own home. I am licensed to provide services in both Missouri and Kansas. I am also certified to provide substance use counseling throughout the United States.
I specialize working with people who have experienced trauma, anxiety and depressive issues, bipolar, as well as substance use disorders. I provide a judgment-free, supportive setting and aid the client in identifying their own inner strengths to help them find solutions to whatever difficulties they are experiencing. I want my clients to feel safe and valued. I provide quality services at a reasonable price on a virtual platform from the comfort and privacy of your own home. I am licensed to provide services in both Missouri and Kansas. I am also certified to provide substance use counseling throughout the United States.
(816) 813-2134 View (816) 813-2134
Photo of Gail Harris, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gail Harris
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64131  (Online Only)
My specialties include life consultant, eating disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorder, depression, and relationships (marriage and family).
I believe there are no quick fixes and that change is a continuous process. Goals are set, progress is made, and next thing you know, there is an unexpected set back. Life experience has taught me that, it is great to want to change, it is great to want to move forward, however, it is also very important to live in the here and now. I will work with you to manage expectations, manage emotions, look for something positive to hold onto, and at the same time, examine what we can do to strive for a different future. We will partner together to delve into the past, find patterns of thoughts.
My specialties include life consultant, eating disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorder, depression, and relationships (marriage and family).
I believe there are no quick fixes and that change is a continuous process. Goals are set, progress is made, and next thing you know, there is an unexpected set back. Life experience has taught me that, it is great to want to change, it is great to want to move forward, however, it is also very important to live in the here and now. I will work with you to manage expectations, manage emotions, look for something positive to hold onto, and at the same time, examine what we can do to strive for a different future. We will partner together to delve into the past, find patterns of thoughts.
(573) 269-3953 View (573) 269-3953

See more therapy options for Grandview

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.