Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Henderson, NC
![Photo of Debra Bergman, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/999a6bce-a933-460f-b5ce-72c2af2e0a05/1/320x400.png)
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 30 years of clinical experience. I have extensive experience working with individuals with issues like anxiety, depression, impulse control, addiction, chronic and life-threatening illness, life transitions, grief and loss, relationship/family problems, stress management, and job stress. I combine a variety of modalities, perspectives, and techniques including client-centered, cognitive behavioral, existential, humanistic, mindfulness, solution-focused, somatic, and trauma-informed care. My mission is to help you manage stress and find more balance in your life.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 30 years of clinical experience. I have extensive experience working with individuals with issues like anxiety, depression, impulse control, addiction, chronic and life-threatening illness, life transitions, grief and loss, relationship/family problems, stress management, and job stress. I combine a variety of modalities, perspectives, and techniques including client-centered, cognitive behavioral, existential, humanistic, mindfulness, solution-focused, somatic, and trauma-informed care. My mission is to help you manage stress and find more balance in your life.
![Photo of Shander Lassiter Meadows - Women and Children Family Counseling Services, MA, LCMHCS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e5ed64e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Women and Children Family Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Henderson, NC 27536
I specialize in helping patients with issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, trauma, and anxiety. For Children and Adolescents I use Trauma Focus Therapy. With adults I use Cognitive Processing Therapy. Also, I specialize in couples counseling, and blended family issues.
I specialize in helping patients with issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, trauma, and anxiety. For Children and Adolescents I use Trauma Focus Therapy. With adults I use Cognitive Processing Therapy. Also, I specialize in couples counseling, and blended family issues.
![Photo of Samantha Coleman - At-Home Counseling Services, Inc., PhD, MAC, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cb3da58-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
At-Home Counseling Services, Inc.
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MAC, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Henderson, NC 27536
"WE COME TO YOU" For adults & children at their home, school, via telehealth, or in our office. Our therapists work with children with behavioral challenges and adults with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, parenting issues, family therapy, stress, marital problems, PTSD, and more. AHCS has served clients since 2009. We serve over 400 clients across the state for Medicaid, private insurance, and self pay services.
"WE COME TO YOU" For adults & children at their home, school, via telehealth, or in our office. Our therapists work with children with behavioral challenges and adults with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, parenting issues, family therapy, stress, marital problems, PTSD, and more. AHCS has served clients since 2009. We serve over 400 clients across the state for Medicaid, private insurance, and self pay services.
![Photo of Mary Edith Watkins, MA, LCMHC, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1648c95d-3017-4223-b08f-6cdb454f178d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mary Edith Watkins
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Henderson, NC 27536 (Online Only)
Throughout my forty (40) years as a therapist in Private Practice, I have provided empathy, insight, information, validation and a confidential, non-judgmental and listening ear to hundreds of clients. My clients sought counseling to gain strategies for: anxiety/depression, assertive communication skills, grief/loss, trauma, lack of self-esteem, relationship issues and change on life situations. My clients need to be heard without being judged, to be understood, to be offered realistic and workable options to issues they have, and to know that they are valued and have worth as a person.
Throughout my forty (40) years as a therapist in Private Practice, I have provided empathy, insight, information, validation and a confidential, non-judgmental and listening ear to hundreds of clients. My clients sought counseling to gain strategies for: anxiety/depression, assertive communication skills, grief/loss, trauma, lack of self-esteem, relationship issues and change on life situations. My clients need to be heard without being judged, to be understood, to be offered realistic and workable options to issues they have, and to know that they are valued and have worth as a person.
![Photo of Dr. Nikki King, MSW, LCSWA, LCASA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22fe890d-5a0a-4bd0-9072-00e686917561/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Nikki King
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA, LCASA
Verified Verified
Henderson, NC 27536
At Mind & Mane, we are dedicated to helping others navigate through life's challenges while finding solutions and being a support while learning from life experiences and sometimes setbacks. We desire to support, teach, and empower others while allowing us to transform your life.
At Mind & Mane, we are dedicated to helping others navigate through life's challenges while finding solutions and being a support while learning from life experiences and sometimes setbacks. We desire to support, teach, and empower others while allowing us to transform your life.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Amanda Richardson, MA, LCMHCA, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c8e7d963-20f3-4913-98a5-50ef95003187/3/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda Richardson
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My special interests include relational issues, communication skills, adjustment issues, and mild psychiatric diagnoses such as: anxiety & depression, bipolar, personality disorders, and conduct disorders.
Hello and Welcome! First and foremost, I'd like to commend you on taking the first step. Oftentimes the first step is the hardest, but... YOU'VE DONE IT! Often, I ask clients, “How do you eat an elephant?” After the looks of bewilderment subside, I am most often told, “You can’t”. As your counselor, it is my hope to show you that it can be accomplished. But how? "One small bite at a time." My ideal client is one who is willing to take a chance on becoming the absolute best version of themselves. It is my hope that in working together, we can tackle the stressors of everyday life and get back to living a fulfilled life.
My special interests include relational issues, communication skills, adjustment issues, and mild psychiatric diagnoses such as: anxiety & depression, bipolar, personality disorders, and conduct disorders.
Hello and Welcome! First and foremost, I'd like to commend you on taking the first step. Oftentimes the first step is the hardest, but... YOU'VE DONE IT! Often, I ask clients, “How do you eat an elephant?” After the looks of bewilderment subside, I am most often told, “You can’t”. As your counselor, it is my hope to show you that it can be accomplished. But how? "One small bite at a time." My ideal client is one who is willing to take a chance on becoming the absolute best version of themselves. It is my hope that in working together, we can tackle the stressors of everyday life and get back to living a fulfilled life.
![Photo of Amy Lynn Otterson, MEd, NCC, CMCC, LCMHCS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d4db274-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amy Lynn Otterson
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, NCC, CMCC, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27605
I am experienced working with individuals (age 13-50), couples and families who are experiencing issues such as: ADHD, Behavioral Disorders (ODD/Disruptive Disorder), Mood Disorders (Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety), Trauma (PTSD, Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault), Self-injury, and Compulsive Disorders as well as family conflict resolution.
Are you looking for something to be different in your life? Do you want to change your life situation, solve a problem, make a major decision, or gain a better understanding of what is happening in your life or relationships? Through counseling, I will provide a person-centered and cognitive behavioral perspective. This means I view counseling as a process by which I help to facilitate my client's exploration and identification of their needs to assist them in making changes in their cognition and behaviors, which will result in the attainment of improved life satisfaction and self-acceptance.
I am experienced working with individuals (age 13-50), couples and families who are experiencing issues such as: ADHD, Behavioral Disorders (ODD/Disruptive Disorder), Mood Disorders (Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety), Trauma (PTSD, Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault), Self-injury, and Compulsive Disorders as well as family conflict resolution.
Are you looking for something to be different in your life? Do you want to change your life situation, solve a problem, make a major decision, or gain a better understanding of what is happening in your life or relationships? Through counseling, I will provide a person-centered and cognitive behavioral perspective. This means I view counseling as a process by which I help to facilitate my client's exploration and identification of their needs to assist them in making changes in their cognition and behaviors, which will result in the attainment of improved life satisfaction and self-acceptance.
![Photo of Sherille Denise Barber, LPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7dbb1dae-3ee4-4b60-b9f8-0d3e79ad77c1/1/320x400.png)
Sherille Denise Barber
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Burlington, NC 27215
My typical client focus is adults, couples, and families who are struggling with relationship issues that typically revolve around communication styles, adults struggling with depressive symptoms as well as anxiety symptoms and other adult disorders commonly seen, such as bipolar disorder and trauma-related disorders.
Hello, my name is Dr. Sherille Barber, and I am a licensed clinical counselor in the states of North and South Carolina. I have worked in the mental health field for over 35 years and primarily utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to aid clients in reaching their optimum potential in life. I primarily work with those battling depression and anxiety as well as those dealing with trauma-related issues.
My typical client focus is adults, couples, and families who are struggling with relationship issues that typically revolve around communication styles, adults struggling with depressive symptoms as well as anxiety symptoms and other adult disorders commonly seen, such as bipolar disorder and trauma-related disorders.
Hello, my name is Dr. Sherille Barber, and I am a licensed clinical counselor in the states of North and South Carolina. I have worked in the mental health field for over 35 years and primarily utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to aid clients in reaching their optimum potential in life. I primarily work with those battling depression and anxiety as well as those dealing with trauma-related issues.
![Photo of Hannah Nealey - Rapha Psychiatry and Wellness , FNP-C](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6e14d4df-ccae-48f0-bee1-92b870a74c75/3/320x400.jpeg)
I’m available for medication management for mental health concerns including bipolar, major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, adhd and more.
It’s okay, to not be okay. You are still valueable and have purpose. Let’s get you feeling better.
I’m available for medication management for mental health concerns including bipolar, major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, adhd and more.
It’s okay, to not be okay. You are still valueable and have purpose. Let’s get you feeling better.
![Photo of Karen Yowell - Freedom Counseling, LCMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ce611c9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Freedom Counseling
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28311 (Online Only)
I specialize in marital relationship issues, military family life issues, management of chronic mental health disorders such as severe depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and post traumatic stress disorder.
Everyone experience’s struggles in their lives that can feel too overwhelming at times. Even though you are doing the best you can to cope, you just might need a little help getting things on track. I am interested in providing you with the tools to understand your issues and to reach your life goals.
I specialize in marital relationship issues, military family life issues, management of chronic mental health disorders such as severe depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and post traumatic stress disorder.
Everyone experience’s struggles in their lives that can feel too overwhelming at times. Even though you are doing the best you can to cope, you just might need a little help getting things on track. I am interested in providing you with the tools to understand your issues and to reach your life goals.
![Photo of Cameron K Collins Phd, PhD, HSP-P, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a102eb6c-e521-44d5-bbed-e83cc7e4f7cb/2/320x400.jpeg)
This life is hard! Are you or your child feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and stressed? Struggling with daily tasks at school, home, or work? Living with ADHD, anxiety/fears, OCD, trauma, or a mood disorder (depression, bipolar disorder)? Going through a difficult transition (e.g. starting college, adjusting adulthood)? You don't have to face these challenges alone - I'm here to help. Work with me to gain personal insight, learn coping strategies, build resilience, and realize your strengths. Together, we can find a way toward a happier and more balanced life.
This life is hard! Are you or your child feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and stressed? Struggling with daily tasks at school, home, or work? Living with ADHD, anxiety/fears, OCD, trauma, or a mood disorder (depression, bipolar disorder)? Going through a difficult transition (e.g. starting college, adjusting adulthood)? You don't have to face these challenges alone - I'm here to help. Work with me to gain personal insight, learn coping strategies, build resilience, and realize your strengths. Together, we can find a way toward a happier and more balanced life.
![Photo of Sara P. Culpepper - Peri Counseling, PLLC, MS, LCMHC, LCAS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e3a5075-febc-42f9-adf9-95e86cb1a3fe/2/320x400.jpeg)
Peri Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Greenville, NC 27858
In addition to working with people with personality disorders and eating disorders, I have provided therapy to people diagnosed with schizophrenia as well as bipolar disorder and serious substance use disorders.
If you're unable to reach your goals because of negative behaviors and your emotions are out of control, or if you simply want a safe environment to express your feelings, then professional counseling is the answer. With my support, clients learn to replace negativity with positivity and lead more serene and emotionally stable lives. I also help clients gain freedom by teaching actionable skills to change their detrimental core beliefs, strengthen relationships, and maintain healthy boundaries. An emphasis is placed on helping people learn to build resiliency by releasing shame and increasing self-esteem.
In addition to working with people with personality disorders and eating disorders, I have provided therapy to people diagnosed with schizophrenia as well as bipolar disorder and serious substance use disorders.
If you're unable to reach your goals because of negative behaviors and your emotions are out of control, or if you simply want a safe environment to express your feelings, then professional counseling is the answer. With my support, clients learn to replace negativity with positivity and lead more serene and emotionally stable lives. I also help clients gain freedom by teaching actionable skills to change their detrimental core beliefs, strengthen relationships, and maintain healthy boundaries. An emphasis is placed on helping people learn to build resiliency by releasing shame and increasing self-esteem.
![Photo of Nina Hightower, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f83a99d1-96a8-4bcd-81fd-601540758801/2/320x400.png)
Nina Hightower
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27703 (Online Only)
As a behavioral health provider, my goal is to support you as you deal with challenges you are facing. I treat adults who suffer from anxiety, depression, PTSD, and trauma. I also work with seniors and individuals diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder. PLEASE NOTE THAT I AM ONLY OFFERING TELEHEALTH SERVICES AT THIS TIME. Please allow me to help you manage anxiety and stress through this difficult time.
As a behavioral health provider, my goal is to support you as you deal with challenges you are facing. I treat adults who suffer from anxiety, depression, PTSD, and trauma. I also work with seniors and individuals diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder. PLEASE NOTE THAT I AM ONLY OFFERING TELEHEALTH SERVICES AT THIS TIME. Please allow me to help you manage anxiety and stress through this difficult time.
![Photo of Chloe Gehl](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/555ed42c-9429-4510-a385-05f8c672c6a2/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate (LCSWA) who offers therapy to children (6+), teens, and adults. I specialize in working with challenges related to sexuality and gender identity, neurodivergence, various mental health issues (e.g., bipolar, depression, borderline personality disorder, anxiety), life transitions, academic and career goals, and with individuals in recovery from substance use disorders. I identify as a queer woman and have previous experience in activism in queer communities in a Midwestern state.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate (LCSWA) who offers therapy to children (6+), teens, and adults. I specialize in working with challenges related to sexuality and gender identity, neurodivergence, various mental health issues (e.g., bipolar, depression, borderline personality disorder, anxiety), life transitions, academic and career goals, and with individuals in recovery from substance use disorders. I identify as a queer woman and have previous experience in activism in queer communities in a Midwestern state.
![Photo of Margurite Reaves, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44c6f234-1066-4f25-869c-1a7fc695bd15/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, my name is Margurite Reaves; I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). I approach the therapeutic process with an individualized approach. My areas of expertise include mood disorders, unhealthy attachment patterns, trauma, and conduct disorders. I have several years of experience working with adults, children/adolescence, and families in areas that include but are not limited to depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, relationship issues, adjustment issues, defiant behaviors, stress management, and trauma.
Hello, my name is Margurite Reaves; I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). I approach the therapeutic process with an individualized approach. My areas of expertise include mood disorders, unhealthy attachment patterns, trauma, and conduct disorders. I have several years of experience working with adults, children/adolescence, and families in areas that include but are not limited to depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, relationship issues, adjustment issues, defiant behaviors, stress management, and trauma.
![Photo of Julia Davis, LCMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e24c5334-57a8-4443-9021-a8cb067ed789/1/320x400.jpeg)
Julia Davis
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609 (Online Only)
Your Well-Being Is in Good Hands! As a committed, professional Mental Health Service Provider of 5 years, your well-being and mental strength is my number one priority. I’m happy to guide you through all of life’s challenges with the attention and care you deserve. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including Anxiety, Relationship Issues, Parenting Problems, Career Challenges, Depression, Schizophrenia, Grief, Trauma, PTSD, HIV, Bipolar ADHD, and Personality Disorders. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse.
Your Well-Being Is in Good Hands! As a committed, professional Mental Health Service Provider of 5 years, your well-being and mental strength is my number one priority. I’m happy to guide you through all of life’s challenges with the attention and care you deserve. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including Anxiety, Relationship Issues, Parenting Problems, Career Challenges, Depression, Schizophrenia, Grief, Trauma, PTSD, HIV, Bipolar ADHD, and Personality Disorders. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse.
![Photo of Katherine H Schulz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ff6f28b-4cdd-4f7a-94ae-f70621ac52f9/2/320x400.jpeg)
I treat clients who have difficulty with borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder as well as clients in the midst of a major life transition or grief. Many of my clients struggle to regulate their emotions. They either avoid emotions altogether or feel explosive or out of control of their emotions.
I treat clients who have difficulty with borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder as well as clients in the midst of a major life transition or grief. Many of my clients struggle to regulate their emotions. They either avoid emotions altogether or feel explosive or out of control of their emotions.
![Photo of Roy Etheridge, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ec93c10-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Etheridge Psychology specializes in evaluations to include: ADHD, Asperger's, depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, bariatric surgery evaluations, gifted (IQ) testing, career assessment, forensic (court-related) evaluation, PTSD and related veterans issues, Bipolar Disorder, and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder.
I specialize in clinical and forensic psychological testing and evaluation with adults and offer evidence-based assessment, diagnosis, and treatment recommendations. My interpersonal style is direct, pragmatic, and spiritual, and I subscribe to the idea that our thoughts drive our reality. My therapy style is compassionate, yet reality-based and focused on helping you identify the themes that are weighing you down and to offer learning strategies toward a change of mind and a change in your reality.
Etheridge Psychology specializes in evaluations to include: ADHD, Asperger's, depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, bariatric surgery evaluations, gifted (IQ) testing, career assessment, forensic (court-related) evaluation, PTSD and related veterans issues, Bipolar Disorder, and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder.
I specialize in clinical and forensic psychological testing and evaluation with adults and offer evidence-based assessment, diagnosis, and treatment recommendations. My interpersonal style is direct, pragmatic, and spiritual, and I subscribe to the idea that our thoughts drive our reality. My therapy style is compassionate, yet reality-based and focused on helping you identify the themes that are weighing you down and to offer learning strategies toward a change of mind and a change in your reality.
![Photo of Khalid Greenaway](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/807eb84d-a6f7-44c9-92c5-57df10994165/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have dedicated the last 20 years to helping people overcome feelings of: Stress, Anxiety Relationship issues Family conflicts Self esteem Depression. Also experienced in: Addictions , Trauma and abuse , Intimacy-related issues , Anger management , Bipolar disorder , Coping with life changes , Coaching , ADHD.
I have dedicated the last 20 years to helping people overcome feelings of: Stress, Anxiety Relationship issues Family conflicts Self esteem Depression. Also experienced in: Addictions , Trauma and abuse , Intimacy-related issues , Anger management , Bipolar disorder , Coping with life changes , Coaching , ADHD.
![Photo of Jennifer Noble Lamberth - CareNet/Fayetteville Family Life Center, MA, LMFT-S, LCMHCS, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cb454ad-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
CareNet/Fayetteville Family Life Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT-S, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28305 (Online Only)
My priority, as a therapist is to assist you through the challenges one faces in life. I am a Person-Centered therapist acknowledging the individuality of each client. I am trained in the integration of psychology and faith. Therapeutic interventions are eclectic incorporating a holistic approach of mind, body and spirit. I have experience in treating Anxiety, Depression, Mood/Bipolar Disorder, Personality Disorder, Life Transition Issues, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Grief, Anger Management, and Women Issues. I, also have experience working with Couple/Marital Counseling and Family-related concerns. As a military spouse, I enjoy assisting military families.
My priority, as a therapist is to assist you through the challenges one faces in life. I am a Person-Centered therapist acknowledging the individuality of each client. I am trained in the integration of psychology and faith. Therapeutic interventions are eclectic incorporating a holistic approach of mind, body and spirit. I have experience in treating Anxiety, Depression, Mood/Bipolar Disorder, Personality Disorder, Life Transition Issues, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Grief, Anger Management, and Women Issues. I, also have experience working with Couple/Marital Counseling and Family-related concerns. As a military spouse, I enjoy assisting military families.
See more therapy options for Henderson
Nearby Bipolar Disorder Therapists Searches for Henderson
- Durham
- Franklinton
- Knightdale
- Louisburg
- Oxford
- Raleigh
- Research Triangle Park
- Rolesville
- Wake Forest
- Wendell
- Youngsville
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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.