Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Hillsborough, NC

Photo of Jason Wesson, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jason Wesson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NC 27278  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in helping those living with bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, behavioral disorders, addictions (substance, food, sex, etc.
**Not Accepting New Clients Currently** I am highly experienced with those who find themselves stuck in unproductive or damaging patterns of thinking or actions and have been unable to move forward, even with other professional help. The feedback I receive from fellow providers and clients is that I have a high success rate of treatment and recovery. I believe that outpatient psychotherapy is a process of collaboration that provides a stable, supportive environment for achieving psychological wellness. Each of us are unique and the best expert on the stressors in our daily life.
I specialize in helping those living with bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, behavioral disorders, addictions (substance, food, sex, etc.
**Not Accepting New Clients Currently** I am highly experienced with those who find themselves stuck in unproductive or damaging patterns of thinking or actions and have been unable to move forward, even with other professional help. The feedback I receive from fellow providers and clients is that I have a high success rate of treatment and recovery. I believe that outpatient psychotherapy is a process of collaboration that provides a stable, supportive environment for achieving psychological wellness. Each of us are unique and the best expert on the stressors in our daily life.
(984) 205-8501 View (984) 205-8501
Photo of Terry Tucker, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Terry Tucker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NC 27278  (Online Only)
Life is not meant to journey alone. After 34 years of working in mental health, I have come to realize that compassion, understanding, guidance and acceptance are the keys to a successful therapeutic relationship. I have worked with clients experiencing many different challenges - trauma, sexual abuse, life transitions, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychosis, marriage issues, isolation and loneliness and chronic physical conditions. Whatever you are currently experiencing, I will seek to support you, serve and guide you on your unique path to healing and awareness.
Life is not meant to journey alone. After 34 years of working in mental health, I have come to realize that compassion, understanding, guidance and acceptance are the keys to a successful therapeutic relationship. I have worked with clients experiencing many different challenges - trauma, sexual abuse, life transitions, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychosis, marriage issues, isolation and loneliness and chronic physical conditions. Whatever you are currently experiencing, I will seek to support you, serve and guide you on your unique path to healing and awareness.
(828) 475-9332 View (828) 475-9332
Photo of Barbara Marotto, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Barbara Marotto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NC 27278
Not accepting new clients
I regularly work with individuals experiencing a variety of symptoms, such as, Depression, Grief, Anxiety/Anxiety Related Disorders, Personality Disorders, Bipolar Disorders, PTSD, Self-Esteem Issues.
Depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and other symptoms can take away the ability to enjoy life, and make it difficult to remain socially connected and maintain good interpersonal relationships. Life circumstances, mental or physical illness, coping with transitions, and unexpected events increase stress, and contribute to feeling overwhelmed and helpless. I will work to help you find a way through these painful experiences, reduce unwanted symptoms, and improve quality of life. If you are struggling with painful symptoms or situation, call me today and we can begin working on the life you want to be living.
I regularly work with individuals experiencing a variety of symptoms, such as, Depression, Grief, Anxiety/Anxiety Related Disorders, Personality Disorders, Bipolar Disorders, PTSD, Self-Esteem Issues.
Depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and other symptoms can take away the ability to enjoy life, and make it difficult to remain socially connected and maintain good interpersonal relationships. Life circumstances, mental or physical illness, coping with transitions, and unexpected events increase stress, and contribute to feeling overwhelmed and helpless. I will work to help you find a way through these painful experiences, reduce unwanted symptoms, and improve quality of life. If you are struggling with painful symptoms or situation, call me today and we can begin working on the life you want to be living.
(919) 504-5863 View (919) 504-5863
Photo of J. Louise Newton, MSW, LCSW, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
J. Louise Newton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, SEP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NC 27278
January 2024: I have limited openings for new patients. You are welcome to contact me and I will respond about scheduling a consultation as I am able and will discuss your care needs and therapy goals. I am a warm and charismatic psychotherapist and am excited to become a resource and support for you. If you have become overwhelmed by anxiety or depression, are worried that you have developed an addiction, or are concerned that your trauma is impacting you lust for life, you may be at the precipice of profound growth. Together we can create a safe enough space to navigate your change efforts in an effective and affirming way.
January 2024: I have limited openings for new patients. You are welcome to contact me and I will respond about scheduling a consultation as I am able and will discuss your care needs and therapy goals. I am a warm and charismatic psychotherapist and am excited to become a resource and support for you. If you have become overwhelmed by anxiety or depression, are worried that you have developed an addiction, or are concerned that your trauma is impacting you lust for life, you may be at the precipice of profound growth. Together we can create a safe enough space to navigate your change efforts in an effective and affirming way.
(910) 319-9335 View (910) 319-9335
Photo of Marty Weems, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marty Weems
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NC 27278
Sometimes we struggle and need help finding our way back to the life we want to live. We may experience feelings of anxiety, depression, hopelessness, and guilt. As a therapist, I aim to create a safe space for my clients to explore their feelings and experiences, and ultimately move towards the things they value. My practice is rooted in compassion, acceptance, and non-judgement. As a LGBTQI affirming therapist, I also recognize the role that oppression plays in creating and maintaining psychological pain. As such, the queer community is a priority in my work.
Sometimes we struggle and need help finding our way back to the life we want to live. We may experience feelings of anxiety, depression, hopelessness, and guilt. As a therapist, I aim to create a safe space for my clients to explore their feelings and experiences, and ultimately move towards the things they value. My practice is rooted in compassion, acceptance, and non-judgement. As a LGBTQI affirming therapist, I also recognize the role that oppression plays in creating and maintaining psychological pain. As such, the queer community is a priority in my work.
(919) 629-0043 View (919) 629-0043
Photo of Kate Kehayes, MS, LCMHCA, Counselor
Kate Kehayes
Counselor, MS, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NC 27278
I am thrilled to announce that I joined Obsidian Care Collective in December, 2023 as telehealth clinical psychotherapist. My practice is informed by my lived experience as a person with neurodivergence who uses a bionic arm. I love supporting others who may inhabit differently abled bodies as we seek enjoyment and liberation through education, support, and accommodation. I maintain a passion for removing barriers and increasing access for anyone seeking self-improvement. As your therapist, I will create a healthy supportive alliance with you, utilizing transparency, humor, and radical acceptance for exploring our authentic selves.
I am thrilled to announce that I joined Obsidian Care Collective in December, 2023 as telehealth clinical psychotherapist. My practice is informed by my lived experience as a person with neurodivergence who uses a bionic arm. I love supporting others who may inhabit differently abled bodies as we seek enjoyment and liberation through education, support, and accommodation. I maintain a passion for removing barriers and increasing access for anyone seeking self-improvement. As your therapist, I will create a healthy supportive alliance with you, utilizing transparency, humor, and radical acceptance for exploring our authentic selves.
(919) 769-3715 View (919) 769-3715
Photo of Jacob Long, MEd, LCMHC, NCC
Jacob Long
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NC 27278
I am a psychodynamically-oriented psychotherapist that works with individuals experiencing relational difficulties and/or disruptions in their overall sense of self. Such concerns result in emerging or worsening psychological symptoms that are painful and difficult to manage. In addressing underlying mental conflicts and their associated compromises, I work with people to get behind their symptoms with the goal of developing more insight, self-agency, and a fuller life.
I am a psychodynamically-oriented psychotherapist that works with individuals experiencing relational difficulties and/or disruptions in their overall sense of self. Such concerns result in emerging or worsening psychological symptoms that are painful and difficult to manage. In addressing underlying mental conflicts and their associated compromises, I work with people to get behind their symptoms with the goal of developing more insight, self-agency, and a fuller life.
(919) 939-2399 View (919) 939-2399
Photo of Christopher Stephens, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christopher Stephens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NC 27278
Psychotherapy is a collaborative experience in which you take an in-depth look at your life, perspectives and behaviors and explore what may or may not be working with a trained professional. Each individual experiences life in one's own unique way, with one's own set of personal values and goals. Sometimes life circumstances can create a conflict with a person's values. Sometimes people try their best and cannot change the way they feel. "Good people" can experience depression, anxiety, anger, grief, substance abuse, trauma and other circumstances, which, with the assistance of a trained professional, can be resolved.
Psychotherapy is a collaborative experience in which you take an in-depth look at your life, perspectives and behaviors and explore what may or may not be working with a trained professional. Each individual experiences life in one's own unique way, with one's own set of personal values and goals. Sometimes life circumstances can create a conflict with a person's values. Sometimes people try their best and cannot change the way they feel. "Good people" can experience depression, anxiety, anger, grief, substance abuse, trauma and other circumstances, which, with the assistance of a trained professional, can be resolved.
(919) 249-7217 View (919) 249-7217
Photo of Leigh Egeghy, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leigh Egeghy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NC 27278
Not accepting new clients
I AM NOT CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. People's reasons for seeking therapy are as varied as the individuals themselves. For some, therapy is part of a broader approach to life in which insight and inner work are seen as core elements to living well and expansively. For others, the step to seek therapy is taken out of pain and suffering and after much deliberation. At times our internal experiences are so painful, they prevent us from fully engaging in our lives and relationships. Therapy can help you learn to hold with care and confidence all your thoughts, feelings and memories while moving through life in a meaningful way.
I AM NOT CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. People's reasons for seeking therapy are as varied as the individuals themselves. For some, therapy is part of a broader approach to life in which insight and inner work are seen as core elements to living well and expansively. For others, the step to seek therapy is taken out of pain and suffering and after much deliberation. At times our internal experiences are so painful, they prevent us from fully engaging in our lives and relationships. Therapy can help you learn to hold with care and confidence all your thoughts, feelings and memories while moving through life in a meaningful way.
(919) 701-5397 View (919) 701-5397
Photo of Dr. Judy H Butler, PsyD, MDiv, SD, Pastoral Counselor
Dr. Judy H Butler
Pastoral Counselor, PsyD, MDiv, SD
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NC 27278
Have you ever made a choice and immediately asked yourself: "Why in the world did I do that?" Imagine if you had talked with someone you trusted before you made that choice. What a difference some compassion and understanding can make. Lighten your burden with someone to walk with you through your difficult life choices. Whether you're wrestling with a work-related challenge or a situation in your intimate relationship, I can offer you a safe space, a ready ear, and help with the choices you're trying to make. Feel heard, understood, and confident in your decisions. That's what therapy offers.
Have you ever made a choice and immediately asked yourself: "Why in the world did I do that?" Imagine if you had talked with someone you trusted before you made that choice. What a difference some compassion and understanding can make. Lighten your burden with someone to walk with you through your difficult life choices. Whether you're wrestling with a work-related challenge or a situation in your intimate relationship, I can offer you a safe space, a ready ear, and help with the choices you're trying to make. Feel heard, understood, and confident in your decisions. That's what therapy offers.
(336) 203-1279 View (336) 203-1279
Photo of Donna Boni, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, C-PD, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Donna Boni
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, C-PD, CCTP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NC 27278
Your life may not be what you want it to be. You may be struggling with addiction, depression, anxiety, past or present trauma. You need someone to talk to, who will listen, not judge, who wants to help you find a way to a better life. I subscribe to the wise words of Viktor Frankl: "When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves." Let me help you meet that challenge. I strive to create a trusting relationship with my clients, which is the foundation that allows a successful outcome. I have extensive training in trauma and the symptoms that often result from these experiences.
Your life may not be what you want it to be. You may be struggling with addiction, depression, anxiety, past or present trauma. You need someone to talk to, who will listen, not judge, who wants to help you find a way to a better life. I subscribe to the wise words of Viktor Frankl: "When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves." Let me help you meet that challenge. I strive to create a trusting relationship with my clients, which is the foundation that allows a successful outcome. I have extensive training in trauma and the symptoms that often result from these experiences.
(919) 759-5784 View (919) 759-5784
Photo of Lilianne R Smith, MA, LCMHC, RPT
Lilianne R Smith
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, RPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NC 27278
Not accepting new clients
Life has so many struggles, problems and transitions and it often feels difficult to cope. I believe we all have the capacity to bring about change; as a therapist I guide and support my client toward growth and healing. I help you to explore your feelings to build self awareness and insight regarding your personal concerns. I enjoy working with children, adolescents and adults.
Life has so many struggles, problems and transitions and it often feels difficult to cope. I believe we all have the capacity to bring about change; as a therapist I guide and support my client toward growth and healing. I help you to explore your feelings to build self awareness and insight regarding your personal concerns. I enjoy working with children, adolescents and adults.
(919) 504-5473 View (919) 504-5473
Photo of Zumrad Ahmedjanova, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, CCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Zumrad Ahmedjanova
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NC 27278
I am currently accepting clients for premarital counseling.> I am a clinical social worker, addiction specialist and a certified supervisor. I support healing by fostering healthy relationship. I found that clients that value a psychobiological approach (relations between mind and body) tend to be drawn to me. I work both with individuals and couples. I support my clients through transitions and change. My work with clients revolves around supporting them to prioritize their needs, as well as to identify coping mechanisms and resources available to them. I do not accept insurance for couples work, but I do for individual.
I am currently accepting clients for premarital counseling.> I am a clinical social worker, addiction specialist and a certified supervisor. I support healing by fostering healthy relationship. I found that clients that value a psychobiological approach (relations between mind and body) tend to be drawn to me. I work both with individuals and couples. I support my clients through transitions and change. My work with clients revolves around supporting them to prioritize their needs, as well as to identify coping mechanisms and resources available to them. I do not accept insurance for couples work, but I do for individual.
(919) 364-6346 View (919) 364-6346
Photo of Louis A Giordano, LCMHC, NCC, BCPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Louis A Giordano
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, BCPCC
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NC 27278
Not accepting new clients
*Please email me for info.* Dr. Giordano's sister Maryann died in 1986 after a 3.5-year struggle with cancer. After Dr. Giordano's last cancer treatment, he began his undergraduate in psychology. Dr. Giordano is the grateful father of two adults. These and many other experiences help Dr. Giordano understand first hand the impact of living with and losing a terminally ill sibling, the effects of losing a child on parents, being diagnosed and treated for cancer, and the challenges related to marriage, divorce, remarriage, raising children, blended families, caring for aging parents, and LGBTQ issues including transgender transition.
*Please email me for info.* Dr. Giordano's sister Maryann died in 1986 after a 3.5-year struggle with cancer. After Dr. Giordano's last cancer treatment, he began his undergraduate in psychology. Dr. Giordano is the grateful father of two adults. These and many other experiences help Dr. Giordano understand first hand the impact of living with and losing a terminally ill sibling, the effects of losing a child on parents, being diagnosed and treated for cancer, and the challenges related to marriage, divorce, remarriage, raising children, blended families, caring for aging parents, and LGBTQ issues including transgender transition.
(919) 794-8377 View (919) 794-8377
Photo of Brad Bannister, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brad Bannister
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NC 27278
Not accepting new clients
With a background in social work and clinical psychology, I have been providing mental health services for more than 20 years. I am trained in Interpersonal Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and various Trauma Specific practices and am experienced in providing therapy to individuals, couples and families. While I am able to see clients presenting with various concerns, my main areas of focus include anxiety, depression, chronic stress, trauma and dealing with life adjustments.
With a background in social work and clinical psychology, I have been providing mental health services for more than 20 years. I am trained in Interpersonal Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and various Trauma Specific practices and am experienced in providing therapy to individuals, couples and families. While I am able to see clients presenting with various concerns, my main areas of focus include anxiety, depression, chronic stress, trauma and dealing with life adjustments.
(984) 206-3585 View (984) 206-3585
Photo of Ping-Tzu Lee, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ping-Tzu Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NC 27278
Changes often raise fear and curiosity. I particularly enjoy working with clients who are full of curiosities and who are willing to explore unknowns and perceive unknowns as gifts. I am interested in supporting clients’ fear related to changes, and helping clients work on variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, traumas, identity development (e.g., sexual orientation and cultural identities), etc. Prior to arriving in the US, I was a mental health provider in Taiwan. In my early career, I practiced child play therapy and animal-assisted psychotherapy.
Changes often raise fear and curiosity. I particularly enjoy working with clients who are full of curiosities and who are willing to explore unknowns and perceive unknowns as gifts. I am interested in supporting clients’ fear related to changes, and helping clients work on variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, traumas, identity development (e.g., sexual orientation and cultural identities), etc. Prior to arriving in the US, I was a mental health provider in Taiwan. In my early career, I practiced child play therapy and animal-assisted psychotherapy.
(919) 752-3997 View (919) 752-3997
Photo of DeAnna C. Murphy, EdD, LCMHCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
DeAnna C. Murphy
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NC 27278
Are you living a purpose filled life? A life that you enjoy waking up to and beginning your day with a strategic plan to live on purpose. At one point you felt optimistic about life then out of nowhere you were triggered by a memory from the past which led to your downward spiral of emotions. Now you are questioning your life's purpose and reason for existence. Or perhaps confused as to why you have experienced certain encounters leading you to feelings of stress, distant behavior, agitation, or perhaps hopeless.
Are you living a purpose filled life? A life that you enjoy waking up to and beginning your day with a strategic plan to live on purpose. At one point you felt optimistic about life then out of nowhere you were triggered by a memory from the past which led to your downward spiral of emotions. Now you are questioning your life's purpose and reason for existence. Or perhaps confused as to why you have experienced certain encounters leading you to feelings of stress, distant behavior, agitation, or perhaps hopeless.
(984) 364-8011 View (984) 364-8011

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Becca Ehlert, CRC, LCMHC, LCAS
Becca Ehlert
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, CRC, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
I take a strengths-based perspective to provide a safe, non-judgmental space for you. I collaborate with you to amplify your innate strengths and resources. Together, we'll discuss your goals and best ways to reach these. Common themes I see include: managing difficult relationships, processing past trauma, building self-esteem, setting boundaries, and developing solutions for healthy changes. I help you develop tremendous resilience to approach your issues with confidence. I have experience working with teens and adults experiencing anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, substance use and/or trauma symptoms.
I take a strengths-based perspective to provide a safe, non-judgmental space for you. I collaborate with you to amplify your innate strengths and resources. Together, we'll discuss your goals and best ways to reach these. Common themes I see include: managing difficult relationships, processing past trauma, building self-esteem, setting boundaries, and developing solutions for healthy changes. I help you develop tremendous resilience to approach your issues with confidence. I have experience working with teens and adults experiencing anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, substance use and/or trauma symptoms.
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Photo of Jon Lentz, PhD, Psychologist
Jon Lentz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have particular experience in working with identity questions, mood disorders such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, and issues stemming from childhood sexual, physical or emotional abuse.
Sometimes people feel unable to move on from things that have happened in their life, stuck in their moods, jobs, or unfulfilling relationships. I work from a primarily psychodynamic point of view to help clients better understand what might be getting in the way of living the life they want. I will value working collaboratively with you to facilitate the healing process. I have extensive experience working with children, college aged individuals, adults, veterans, and seniors with short and long term interventions.
I have particular experience in working with identity questions, mood disorders such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, and issues stemming from childhood sexual, physical or emotional abuse.
Sometimes people feel unable to move on from things that have happened in their life, stuck in their moods, jobs, or unfulfilling relationships. I work from a primarily psychodynamic point of view to help clients better understand what might be getting in the way of living the life they want. I will value working collaboratively with you to facilitate the healing process. I have extensive experience working with children, college aged individuals, adults, veterans, and seniors with short and long term interventions.
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Photo of Suzanne F Bates, PhD, Psychologist
Suzanne F Bates
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Many of my clients struggle with depression, bipolar disorder, OCD and other anxiety disorders, chronic illness, relationship issues, and grief and loss issues.
Psychotherapy is an opportunity to enhance learning about behavior, emotions, relationships, and oneself. My goal is to work through the difficulties you are experiencing now while we also build your resiliency to prevent or minimize future difficulties. I ask clients to devote time in between sessions to our work: to increase how accurately we understand your concerns and to take the therapeutic work into your everyday life. Treatment effectiveness relies heavily on the match between therapist and client. If it is not a positive match with me, I assist clients in finding your best match.
Many of my clients struggle with depression, bipolar disorder, OCD and other anxiety disorders, chronic illness, relationship issues, and grief and loss issues.
Psychotherapy is an opportunity to enhance learning about behavior, emotions, relationships, and oneself. My goal is to work through the difficulties you are experiencing now while we also build your resiliency to prevent or minimize future difficulties. I ask clients to devote time in between sessions to our work: to increase how accurately we understand your concerns and to take the therapeutic work into your everyday life. Treatment effectiveness relies heavily on the match between therapist and client. If it is not a positive match with me, I assist clients in finding your best match.
(919) 429-7291 View (919) 429-7291

See more therapy options for Hillsborough

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.