Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Calabash, NC

Photo of Heather M Rubino, MSW, LCSW, LCASA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather M Rubino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCASA
Verified Verified
Calabash, NC 28467
Accepting New Clients. You are so brave and courageous for taking this step! I know this is probably overwhelming, but I am glad you are here. In life we often feel stuck or overwhelmed with heavy feelings of anxiety, depression, trauma, or life in general. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I am passionate about and have experience in working with adolescents, adults, and older adults who are experiencing and may be impacted by feelings of anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life challenges and or transitions, substance abuse, grief, and trauma.
Accepting New Clients. You are so brave and courageous for taking this step! I know this is probably overwhelming, but I am glad you are here. In life we often feel stuck or overwhelmed with heavy feelings of anxiety, depression, trauma, or life in general. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I am passionate about and have experience in working with adolescents, adults, and older adults who are experiencing and may be impacted by feelings of anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life challenges and or transitions, substance abuse, grief, and trauma.
(910) 377-1794 View (910) 377-1794
Photo of Carolyn M. Ball, MA, LPC, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carolyn M. Ball
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Calabash, NC 28467
Welcome to Self-Actualization Therapy. There is a wise, happy, and successful person living inside of each of us, and my work is to help you access that. I offer skilled and insightful tools and processes for helping you discover your true magnificence and abilities, to cut through the challenges that life tends to bring, and to increase your confidence and happiness. I have spent a lifetime seeking out the most effective ways to help you create the life you want, so if you are serious about creating change, I can help you with that goal. My focus is to empower you and bring out your best!
Welcome to Self-Actualization Therapy. There is a wise, happy, and successful person living inside of each of us, and my work is to help you access that. I offer skilled and insightful tools and processes for helping you discover your true magnificence and abilities, to cut through the challenges that life tends to bring, and to increase your confidence and happiness. I have spent a lifetime seeking out the most effective ways to help you create the life you want, so if you are serious about creating change, I can help you with that goal. My focus is to empower you and bring out your best!
(843) 701-1398 View (843) 701-1398
Photo of Monica Sojka - Monica Sojka Oceano Counseling LLC, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Monica Sojka Oceano Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Calabash, NC 28467
Looking for Solutions? Not sure about therapy or coaching? Schedule a Free 20 minute meet and greet. Click my Patient Portal Button on my website to complete my quick and easy intake process. You can make and cancel your own appts via the Portal and receive appt reminders. Everyday, people look for ways to change their lives in real and meaningful ways. Do you want to change your life but don't know where to start? I can help! Call, email me at monicasojka@gmail.com or go my website oceanocounseling.com I can also visit facilities to see Medicare patients.
Looking for Solutions? Not sure about therapy or coaching? Schedule a Free 20 minute meet and greet. Click my Patient Portal Button on my website to complete my quick and easy intake process. You can make and cancel your own appts via the Portal and receive appt reminders. Everyday, people look for ways to change their lives in real and meaningful ways. Do you want to change your life but don't know where to start? I can help! Call, email me at monicasojka@gmail.com or go my website oceanocounseling.com I can also visit facilities to see Medicare patients.
(843) 755-4107 View (843) 755-4107
Photo of Michael R Stewart, MA, LPC, LAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michael R Stewart
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LAC
Verified Verified
Calabash, NC 28467
I have been in the helping business for the last 25 years. My vast experiences in life have given me insights that enable me to help clients who suffer from relationship issues within their marriage, their families, their social environment and within their work place. I have also had great success working with clients who suffer from addictions (drugs, alcohol, sex, pornography, etc.) and co-dependency issues. My experiences as a teacher helps me work with adolescent issues related to anxiety, depression, behavior, self-esteem, sexuality, gender, etc.
I have been in the helping business for the last 25 years. My vast experiences in life have given me insights that enable me to help clients who suffer from relationship issues within their marriage, their families, their social environment and within their work place. I have also had great success working with clients who suffer from addictions (drugs, alcohol, sex, pornography, etc.) and co-dependency issues. My experiences as a teacher helps me work with adolescent issues related to anxiety, depression, behavior, self-esteem, sexuality, gender, etc.
(843) 410-4324 View (843) 410-4324
Photo of Brittany Oxendine Jozefowicz, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Brittany Oxendine Jozefowicz
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calabash, NC 28467
Some days are better than others, but why can't everyday be good? That doesn't mean every day is going go your way, but it can mean that you are less impacted by situations or circumstances that leave you feeling down, stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed. In return, you are able to cope with life situations in a way that teaches you how to live the life you want and feel good about the choices you make throughout your day. We all have challenges we face and at times, it seems easier to just give up. However, this does not have to be your destiny. You can take control of your life no matter what the situation is and find happiness.
Some days are better than others, but why can't everyday be good? That doesn't mean every day is going go your way, but it can mean that you are less impacted by situations or circumstances that leave you feeling down, stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed. In return, you are able to cope with life situations in a way that teaches you how to live the life you want and feel good about the choices you make throughout your day. We all have challenges we face and at times, it seems easier to just give up. However, this does not have to be your destiny. You can take control of your life no matter what the situation is and find happiness.
(910) 292-4052 View (910) 292-4052
Photo of Allison Adcock, LCMHC, Counselor
Allison Adcock
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Calabash, NC 28467
Hi, I am Allison Adcock. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina. I specialize in substance use, addiction, and eating disorders. I take a client-centered, values-based approach when conducting therapy and work with clients to set goals based on their core values, needs, and wants. I treat ages 13+, male, female, and non-binary individuals. Conditions within my scope include depression, anxiety, substance use and addiction, and eating disorders. I also have experience treating individuals with mood and adjustment disorders.
Hi, I am Allison Adcock. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina. I specialize in substance use, addiction, and eating disorders. I take a client-centered, values-based approach when conducting therapy and work with clients to set goals based on their core values, needs, and wants. I treat ages 13+, male, female, and non-binary individuals. Conditions within my scope include depression, anxiety, substance use and addiction, and eating disorders. I also have experience treating individuals with mood and adjustment disorders.
(704) 387-5349 View (704) 387-5349
Photo of Julie Hartman, LPC, CCMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julie Hartman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Calabash, NC 28467  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I have extensive experience working with individuals who experience trauma, depression, and anxiety to help them live without fear and sadness running their lives. Sadness and fear do not have to be daily emotions. Things happen in our lives that create uncertainty for what the future will be like. Happiness, inner peace, and feelings of safety are things we all deserve. Therapy is about finding solutions to help you improve areas of your life that you are struggling with. Therapy can also help you process traumatic events that have happened in your past or present, resulting in feelings of depression and anxiety.
I have extensive experience working with individuals who experience trauma, depression, and anxiety to help them live without fear and sadness running their lives. Sadness and fear do not have to be daily emotions. Things happen in our lives that create uncertainty for what the future will be like. Happiness, inner peace, and feelings of safety are things we all deserve. Therapy is about finding solutions to help you improve areas of your life that you are struggling with. Therapy can also help you process traumatic events that have happened in your past or present, resulting in feelings of depression and anxiety.
(843) 279-8372 View (843) 279-8372

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Angela Veronica Keith, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, CMCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angela Veronica Keith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, CMCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Shallotte, NC 28459
I believe that family life is being culturally stressed. I am committed to working with single parent stressors. I also have a heart for the aging and walking the difficult road or grief and loss. My practice is driven by my belief in self care and becoming your own advocate. I will help you achieve positive outcomes, reaching personal goals through solution focused therapy, where we work together to meet our objectives. I work with individuals, families, and couples. I provide evening and weekend hours to help with busy work schedules. Telehealth sessions given in a private and secure setting.
I believe that family life is being culturally stressed. I am committed to working with single parent stressors. I also have a heart for the aging and walking the difficult road or grief and loss. My practice is driven by my belief in self care and becoming your own advocate. I will help you achieve positive outcomes, reaching personal goals through solution focused therapy, where we work together to meet our objectives. I work with individuals, families, and couples. I provide evening and weekend hours to help with busy work schedules. Telehealth sessions given in a private and secure setting.
(910) 849-1900 View (910) 849-1900
Photo of Justen Jon Gross - Leland Counseling Services PLLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leland Counseling Services PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Shallotte, NC 28459  (Online Only)
Perhaps you're down or anxious - maybe you're unsure about the future of a relationship, or just feel that you aren't living the life you were meant to lead. Whatever your needs may be, I am here to offer support. Therapy is a process of growth and self-discovery, and in my sessions I promote behavioral transformation by encouraging a positive outlook and the adoption of new attitudes and reactions. I have the tools and professional experience to help you get back on track.
Perhaps you're down or anxious - maybe you're unsure about the future of a relationship, or just feel that you aren't living the life you were meant to lead. Whatever your needs may be, I am here to offer support. Therapy is a process of growth and self-discovery, and in my sessions I promote behavioral transformation by encouraging a positive outlook and the adoption of new attitudes and reactions. I have the tools and professional experience to help you get back on track.
(216) 304-3957 View (216) 304-3957
Photo of Joseph Rengifo - Wilmington Mental Health, LCMHC, LCAS, LCSW, NPMHNP, FNP, Counselor
Wilmington Mental Health
Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, LCSW, NPMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shallotte, NC 28459
Wilmington Mental Health (WMH) provides evidence-based and person-centered treatment to residents of Southeastern North Carolina. Our mission is to offer accessible universal mental health treatment so that everyone in our community has access to the services they need, when and where they need them. WMH integrates multiple therapeutic techniques to create optimal patient experience. WMH understands that life presents difficulties that can reduce the quality of life and happiness of those in our community. These challenges can be detrimental if left on unresolved. Hence, it is critical that access to mental health care exist when individuals need it most. WMH has developed a platform that provides therapeutic support for teenagers, college students, adults, couples, and families. Our compassionate counselors are ready to meet with you to help you resolve challenges and move forward in your life. Get on the road to recovery with Wilmington Mental Health Today! Book a confidential consultation, call 910-777-5575 or email us at info@wmhwc.com.
Wilmington Mental Health (WMH) provides evidence-based and person-centered treatment to residents of Southeastern North Carolina. Our mission is to offer accessible universal mental health treatment so that everyone in our community has access to the services they need, when and where they need them. WMH integrates multiple therapeutic techniques to create optimal patient experience. WMH understands that life presents difficulties that can reduce the quality of life and happiness of those in our community. These challenges can be detrimental if left on unresolved. Hence, it is critical that access to mental health care exist when individuals need it most. WMH has developed a platform that provides therapeutic support for teenagers, college students, adults, couples, and families. Our compassionate counselors are ready to meet with you to help you resolve challenges and move forward in your life. Get on the road to recovery with Wilmington Mental Health Today! Book a confidential consultation, call 910-777-5575 or email us at info@wmhwc.com.
(910) 909-4408 View (910) 909-4408
Photo of Cheryl McGee, EdD, LPC, LADC/MH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cheryl McGee
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, LADC/MH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469
Would you like to explore how to change patterns or behaviors, enhance relationships, set better boundaries, and find a deeper connection with yourself? By utilizing empathy in conjunction with the latest professional clinical techniques I will work alongside you to determine the exact cause of your distress, and then assist in breaking free to develop a healthy balanced lifestyle. Therapy is a commitment to yourself and can enhance personal discovery. Take the brave leap today, I look forward to meeting you.
Would you like to explore how to change patterns or behaviors, enhance relationships, set better boundaries, and find a deeper connection with yourself? By utilizing empathy in conjunction with the latest professional clinical techniques I will work alongside you to determine the exact cause of your distress, and then assist in breaking free to develop a healthy balanced lifestyle. Therapy is a commitment to yourself and can enhance personal discovery. Take the brave leap today, I look forward to meeting you.
(405) 445-0317 View (405) 445-0317
Photo of Veronica A Zinkham - Veronica A. Zinkham, LPC, Psychotherapist, MA, NCC, LPC, CPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Veronica A. Zinkham, LPC, Psychotherapist
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC, CPC
Verified Verified
Shallotte, NC 28459
My goal is to help you feel welcomed, safe, and unjudged. My passion is to assist you in learning to meet, manage, and move beyond difficult life challenges and gain optimal growth and belief in YOU. If you struggle with Relationships, Depression, Grief, Life Transitions, Trauma or Abuse, you have the power to heal. I am humbled by the human spirit. Therapy is a process of collaboration, mutual goal setting, awareness, trust and change. When you are hurting, reach out - help is there for you. I will offer support, guidance and steps to overcome life hurts.
My goal is to help you feel welcomed, safe, and unjudged. My passion is to assist you in learning to meet, manage, and move beyond difficult life challenges and gain optimal growth and belief in YOU. If you struggle with Relationships, Depression, Grief, Life Transitions, Trauma or Abuse, you have the power to heal. I am humbled by the human spirit. Therapy is a process of collaboration, mutual goal setting, awareness, trust and change. When you are hurting, reach out - help is there for you. I will offer support, guidance and steps to overcome life hurts.
(412) 265-2646 View (412) 265-2646
Photo of Living Water Counseling Center, RIC's, EMDR, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Living Water Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, RIC's, EMDR, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469
Living Water Counseling Center opened in 2011 and is home to 10 amazing therapists ready to help you with your personal goals. Our approach is respectful of your unique experiences and we would love to partner with you to create a more fulfilling life. With extensive training and experience in working with individuals, families, and couples you can find the right fit for your needs with us. We specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and attachment wounds. We view the therapeutic relationship as the most significant part of therapy and hope you find acceptance and support.
Living Water Counseling Center opened in 2011 and is home to 10 amazing therapists ready to help you with your personal goals. Our approach is respectful of your unique experiences and we would love to partner with you to create a more fulfilling life. With extensive training and experience in working with individuals, families, and couples you can find the right fit for your needs with us. We specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and attachment wounds. We view the therapeutic relationship as the most significant part of therapy and hope you find acceptance and support.
(434) 433-8683 View (434) 433-8683
Photo of Mary-Eileen Hahn, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Mary-Eileen Hahn
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Shallotte, NC 28470
Your story is unique. Inviting someone to know, share and explore your story in order to illuminate truths both wonderful and difficult is the courageous work of therapy. My goal is encouragement, growth and freedom for you. Returning you to a healthy balance in thinking, feeling, behaving and relating will be the focus of our work. I welcome individuals struggling with life transition issues, anxiety and depression, emotion regulation difficulties, work/life satisfaction challenges and relational issues. Marriage/couples work is welcomed.
Your story is unique. Inviting someone to know, share and explore your story in order to illuminate truths both wonderful and difficult is the courageous work of therapy. My goal is encouragement, growth and freedom for you. Returning you to a healthy balance in thinking, feeling, behaving and relating will be the focus of our work. I welcome individuals struggling with life transition issues, anxiety and depression, emotion regulation difficulties, work/life satisfaction challenges and relational issues. Marriage/couples work is welcomed.
(910) 251-7789 View (910) 251-7789
Photo of Barb Jacques, MS, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Barb Jacques
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Shallotte, NC 28470
Not accepting new clients
In today's world, life is often chaotic and relationships can be challenging. Wrestling with anxiety, marital stress, job loss, and other difficult circumstances can feel like walking alone at night on an unfamiliar path: it’s hard to find your way. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy Associate, I am here to walk beside you. I’ll bring a compass and a flashlight – together we can navigate a path forward.
In today's world, life is often chaotic and relationships can be challenging. Wrestling with anxiety, marital stress, job loss, and other difficult circumstances can feel like walking alone at night on an unfamiliar path: it’s hard to find your way. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy Associate, I am here to walk beside you. I’ll bring a compass and a flashlight – together we can navigate a path forward.
(910) 542-8583 View (910) 542-8583

Online Therapists

Photo of Shelia Diana Williamson Collins, PhD, LCMHC/S, CCMHC, LCAS, SAP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shelia Diana Williamson Collins
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCMHC/S, CCMHC, LCAS, SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockingham, NC 28379
Everyone has a story to tell. I am here to listen. Giving voice to your concerns and issues is the first step to healing. We can accomplish this together. I am a National Certified Counselor/Licensed Professional Counselor, who provides in-home therapeutic counseling to children, adolescents, adults in individual, group, and family sessions in the Rockingham, NC and Hamlet, NC area. I treat mental health disorders, i.e. depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, etc. Please feel free to contact me on my website at http://www.swilliamsontherapist.com.
Everyone has a story to tell. I am here to listen. Giving voice to your concerns and issues is the first step to healing. We can accomplish this together. I am a National Certified Counselor/Licensed Professional Counselor, who provides in-home therapeutic counseling to children, adolescents, adults in individual, group, and family sessions in the Rockingham, NC and Hamlet, NC area. I treat mental health disorders, i.e. depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, etc. Please feel free to contact me on my website at http://www.swilliamsontherapist.com.
(910) 778-1724 View (910) 778-1724
Photo of Christina Jarman Phillips, DMin, LCMHCA, QP, Counselor
Christina Jarman Phillips
Counselor, DMin, LCMHCA, QP
Verified Verified
Hope Mills, NC 28348  (Online Only)
I want to help everyone. I particularly have experience in working with patients with anxiety, depression, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Conduct Disorder, and Substance Use Disorders. I will work with both children and adults. I want clients to become the best version of themselves. For those who want to integrate their faith and spirituality into counseling, this can be offered during the session as well. Biblical counseling is available.
I want to help everyone. I particularly have experience in working with patients with anxiety, depression, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Conduct Disorder, and Substance Use Disorders. I will work with both children and adults. I want clients to become the best version of themselves. For those who want to integrate their faith and spirituality into counseling, this can be offered during the session as well. Biblical counseling is available.
(910) 788-4333 View (910) 788-4333
Photo of Lynanne Romano, PsyD, Psychologist
Lynanne Romano
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403  (Online Only)
Dr. Romano is a licensed and dedicated clinical psychologist treating Adult ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, and Depression. With a Psy.D. from Immaculata University and over fifteen years of experience in mental health, she brings a wealth of expertise and a compassionate, relatable approach to her practice. Dr. Romano establishes a strong connection with clients, fostering a safe and supportive environment for growth and healing. Her evidence-based treatments are personalized to meet the unique needs of each individual, ensuring a holistic and empowering therapeutic experience.
Dr. Romano is a licensed and dedicated clinical psychologist treating Adult ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, and Depression. With a Psy.D. from Immaculata University and over fifteen years of experience in mental health, she brings a wealth of expertise and a compassionate, relatable approach to her practice. Dr. Romano establishes a strong connection with clients, fostering a safe and supportive environment for growth and healing. Her evidence-based treatments are personalized to meet the unique needs of each individual, ensuring a holistic and empowering therapeutic experience.
(910) 541-9780 View (910) 541-9780
Photo of Eugenia Davis, LMHC
Eugenia Davis
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28304
My name is Eugenia V. Davis. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and a Supervisor with over 24 years of clinical experience working with Individuals, Couples, and Families suffering from Anger Management, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, and Dual Diagnosis. I use a mix of Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Couples Therapy, Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), and Motivational Interviewing. I believe it is easy for a person to become wrapped up in issues they cannot rationalize, and I think I can help their cause.
My name is Eugenia V. Davis. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and a Supervisor with over 24 years of clinical experience working with Individuals, Couples, and Families suffering from Anger Management, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, and Dual Diagnosis. I use a mix of Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Couples Therapy, Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), and Motivational Interviewing. I believe it is easy for a person to become wrapped up in issues they cannot rationalize, and I think I can help their cause.
(984) 217-5108 View (984) 217-5108
Photo of Sophia Caudle - Bull City Psychotherapy, PLLC, PhD, LPC-S, LCSW, LCAS, CSAT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bull City Psychotherapy, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, LCSW, LCAS, CSAT-S
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
Our areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, bipolar, trauma, sex addiction, pornography addiction, substance abuse, LGBTQ.
Welcome to Bull City Psychotherapy. We are a caring group of psychotherapists who are passionate about helping others improve their moods, improve relationships, and recover from addictions. We offer a private and comfortable environment for our work with you, so you can feel safe and at ease. We are all highly trained in our areas of expertise, and we value our clients achieving their goals and moving forward. We believe in effective therapy that works.
Our areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, bipolar, trauma, sex addiction, pornography addiction, substance abuse, LGBTQ.
Welcome to Bull City Psychotherapy. We are a caring group of psychotherapists who are passionate about helping others improve their moods, improve relationships, and recover from addictions. We offer a private and comfortable environment for our work with you, so you can feel safe and at ease. We are all highly trained in our areas of expertise, and we value our clients achieving their goals and moving forward. We believe in effective therapy that works.
(919) 698-7061 View (919) 698-7061

See more therapy options for Calabash

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.