Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Blacklick, OH

Photo of Christina Rovah - Grace Blossoms Behavioral Health LLC, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Grace Blossoms Behavioral Health LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Blacklick, OH 43004
Areas of interest include, but are not limited to: Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Grief, Bipolar, Marital Discord and Adjustment Disorders.
Grace Blossoms Behavioral Health is a small local private practice of women who are independently licensed social workers and/or independently licensed chemical dependency counselors; that provide counseling services to ages 14 and up. We look to empower individuals, couples and families to continue down the path of healing so they can have healthy relationships, and improve their overall functioning.
Areas of interest include, but are not limited to: Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Grief, Bipolar, Marital Discord and Adjustment Disorders.
Grace Blossoms Behavioral Health is a small local private practice of women who are independently licensed social workers and/or independently licensed chemical dependency counselors; that provide counseling services to ages 14 and up. We look to empower individuals, couples and families to continue down the path of healing so they can have healthy relationships, and improve their overall functioning.
(614) 892-9082 View (614) 892-9082
Photo of Abdur Siddiq- Jennah Counseling Services, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Abdur Siddiq- Jennah Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Blacklick, OH 43004
In a busy, hectic, fast-paced world, we sometimes find ourselves overwhelmed and needing somewhere safe and calm to breathe. Therapy can be a space where someone finds the time to relieve the stress of work, family/relationships and other psychosocial issues related to life in today's world. By addressing these needs, the person can become whole again and live the satisfying life they want. For consultation or to schedule an appointment, I can be reached at 614-354-7006.
In a busy, hectic, fast-paced world, we sometimes find ourselves overwhelmed and needing somewhere safe and calm to breathe. Therapy can be a space where someone finds the time to relieve the stress of work, family/relationships and other psychosocial issues related to life in today's world. By addressing these needs, the person can become whole again and live the satisfying life they want. For consultation or to schedule an appointment, I can be reached at 614-354-7006.
(614) 665-8194 View (614) 665-8194
Photo of Holli Hawk - Hawk Counseling, LLC, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hawk Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Blacklick, OH 43004
Through counseling you can find hope, learn new ways to cope, improve relationships, and experience relief from mental health and life challenges. At Hawk Counseling, you will receive the support you need to heal from past wounds, cope with life stress and move forward on your life path.
Through counseling you can find hope, learn new ways to cope, improve relationships, and experience relief from mental health and life challenges. At Hawk Counseling, you will receive the support you need to heal from past wounds, cope with life stress and move forward on your life path.
(614) 881-5928 View (614) 881-5928
Photo of Connor Moore, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Connor Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Blacklick, OH 43004
Connor is a Licensed Independent Social Worker who obtained his Bachelor’s of Social Work and Master’s of Social Work Degrees from The Ohio State University. Connor sees clients 18 and above but specializes in work with young adults. He works with clients struggling with issues related to anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, and managing life transitions. Connor takes an existential approach to therapy, working with clients to explore themselves and to ask the deep questions of life, meaning, and fulfillment.
Connor is a Licensed Independent Social Worker who obtained his Bachelor’s of Social Work and Master’s of Social Work Degrees from The Ohio State University. Connor sees clients 18 and above but specializes in work with young adults. He works with clients struggling with issues related to anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, and managing life transitions. Connor takes an existential approach to therapy, working with clients to explore themselves and to ask the deep questions of life, meaning, and fulfillment.
(614) 629-8809 View (614) 629-8809

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Terrance Tufts, LPCC, Counselor
Terrance Tufts
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Pickerington, OH 43147
I have served those with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Family Issues, etc. My ideal client is motivated to roll up their sleeves and engage in the therapeutic process. They have an open mind and can practice effective coping skills to improve their overall functioning and quality of life. They can challenge themselves to be vulnerable and practice accountability while processing their problematic thinking patterns and behaviors in a safe and non-judgmental environment. They wish to engage in therapy because they realize that they need to make a change and are willing to take a leap of faith to make it happen.
I have served those with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Family Issues, etc. My ideal client is motivated to roll up their sleeves and engage in the therapeutic process. They have an open mind and can practice effective coping skills to improve their overall functioning and quality of life. They can challenge themselves to be vulnerable and practice accountability while processing their problematic thinking patterns and behaviors in a safe and non-judgmental environment. They wish to engage in therapy because they realize that they need to make a change and are willing to take a leap of faith to make it happen.
(614) 683-5179 View (614) 683-5179
Photo of Jarrod Beyler, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jarrod Beyler
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
I am a social worker and can help you with beating depression and anxiety. I see patients remotely via telemedicine services. In addition to my degree in social work, I have served in the US Army. I have experience working with clients who experience PTSD, depression, bipolar, grief, ADHD, and other mental health conditions. I would like to help my clients reach their goals and help them in finding the right tools to beat their conditions.
I am a social worker and can help you with beating depression and anxiety. I see patients remotely via telemedicine services. In addition to my degree in social work, I have served in the US Army. I have experience working with clients who experience PTSD, depression, bipolar, grief, ADHD, and other mental health conditions. I would like to help my clients reach their goals and help them in finding the right tools to beat their conditions.
(614) 635-7076 View (614) 635-7076
Photo of Katherine Cordier, LPC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katherine Cordier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43230  (Online Only)
My treatment experience includes working with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, grief, career exploration, trauma, relationship issues, life transitions, boundary setting, and change management.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who has been practicing since 2024. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, a Master of Science in Business Administration, and a Master of Science in Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Dayton. I'm currently under supervision until 2026. I enjoy making multidimensional connections within the world, building relationships, and guiding individuals through their personal and interpersonal challenges. My clients have commonly describe me as an optimistic, realistic, and eclectic counselor.
My treatment experience includes working with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, grief, career exploration, trauma, relationship issues, life transitions, boundary setting, and change management.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who has been practicing since 2024. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, a Master of Science in Business Administration, and a Master of Science in Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Dayton. I'm currently under supervision until 2026. I enjoy making multidimensional connections within the world, building relationships, and guiding individuals through their personal and interpersonal challenges. My clients have commonly describe me as an optimistic, realistic, and eclectic counselor.
(614) 756-5474 View (614) 756-5474
Photo of Alicia Jones, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alicia Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43230
I have years of experience treating individuals in various settings, but I specialize in treating adults suffering with trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, life transitions, bipolar, and substance use.
I view individuals as experts on themselves and believe in working collaboratively with clients to develop meaningful goals and treatment plans unique to them. I am passionate about increasing one’s sense of belonging and connection, quality of life, and effective coping skills. I utilize Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT) techniques, Person-Centered Therapy, and Existential approaches most frequently: however, I am confident with other evidence-based approaches to tailor to client’s needs.
I have years of experience treating individuals in various settings, but I specialize in treating adults suffering with trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, life transitions, bipolar, and substance use.
I view individuals as experts on themselves and believe in working collaboratively with clients to develop meaningful goals and treatment plans unique to them. I am passionate about increasing one’s sense of belonging and connection, quality of life, and effective coping skills. I utilize Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT) techniques, Person-Centered Therapy, and Existential approaches most frequently: however, I am confident with other evidence-based approaches to tailor to client’s needs.
(614) 656-7025 View (614) 656-7025
Photo of Dr. Noriyo Shoji-Schaffner, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Noriyo Shoji-Schaffner
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Are you navigating personality disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety & depression, marital & familial conflicts, & grief? Are you ready to explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to improve your well-being by being open to asking tough questions, tackling big issues, and pursuing outcomes with perseverance? My goal is to provide support in improving relationships, managing stress, overcoming trauma, adopting healthier coping skills, & embracing fulfilling life options. My 15 years of clinical experience as a racial/ethnic minority practitioner has allowed me to cultivate expertise to assist racial/ethnic minority groups.
Are you navigating personality disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety & depression, marital & familial conflicts, & grief? Are you ready to explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to improve your well-being by being open to asking tough questions, tackling big issues, and pursuing outcomes with perseverance? My goal is to provide support in improving relationships, managing stress, overcoming trauma, adopting healthier coping skills, & embracing fulfilling life options. My 15 years of clinical experience as a racial/ethnic minority practitioner has allowed me to cultivate expertise to assist racial/ethnic minority groups.
(740) 726-5120 View (740) 726-5120
Photo of Marina M Trent, LPCC, LICDC, Counselor
Marina M Trent
Counselor, LPCC, LICDC
Verified Verified
Pataskala, OH 43062
Book with me now by clicking on my website! Do you feel like the demands of life make it hard to find balance in prioritizing your own needs? Are you struggling to break free of unhealthy habits? Navigating the various chapters in life can be challenging, you are not alone in this struggle. I specialize in dual diagnosis including depression, anxiety, substance use, bipolar disorder, and life transitions. I strive to work collaboratively with my clients as I acknowledge you are the expert of your own life. I utilize various interventions to build client empowerment through value based discussions and self-exploration.
Book with me now by clicking on my website! Do you feel like the demands of life make it hard to find balance in prioritizing your own needs? Are you struggling to break free of unhealthy habits? Navigating the various chapters in life can be challenging, you are not alone in this struggle. I specialize in dual diagnosis including depression, anxiety, substance use, bipolar disorder, and life transitions. I strive to work collaboratively with my clients as I acknowledge you are the expert of your own life. I utilize various interventions to build client empowerment through value based discussions and self-exploration.
(740) 202-9059 View (740) 202-9059
Photo of Bonnie Frye, LPCC-S, Counselor
Bonnie Frye
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
She uses cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), EMDR, and other frameworks to treat issues such as depression, bipolar, anxiety, panic, grief and loss, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), parenting concerns, and stress management.
Bonnie Frye is a licensed professional clinical counselor with more than 25 years of experience. She holds a master's degree in Community Agency Counseling from Cleveland State University in Ohio. She has more than three years of experience working with adults with mental health and substance abuse concerns at the inpatient level of care. She also has experience in community mental health assessment and treatment. Bonnie has worked extensively with both individual, family and therapy groups in inpatient, outpatient and community mental health settings.
She uses cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), EMDR, and other frameworks to treat issues such as depression, bipolar, anxiety, panic, grief and loss, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), parenting concerns, and stress management.
Bonnie Frye is a licensed professional clinical counselor with more than 25 years of experience. She holds a master's degree in Community Agency Counseling from Cleveland State University in Ohio. She has more than three years of experience working with adults with mental health and substance abuse concerns at the inpatient level of care. She also has experience in community mental health assessment and treatment. Bonnie has worked extensively with both individual, family and therapy groups in inpatient, outpatient and community mental health settings.
(380) 207-9079 View (380) 207-9079
Photo of Damara Ferguson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Damara Ferguson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43230  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping clients with trauma/PTSD, stress, anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, addiction, life changes, self-esteem, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, ADHD, schizophrenia, psychotic disorders and cognitive distortions to give you a general idea.
My name is Damara C Ferguson, LICSW in the state of Ohio. Currently I see clients through telehealth/video sessions only. I have over 15 years of experience and I love providing therapy; I consider it a privilege to walk alongside client's as they heal, grow and learn ways to cope with life's difficulties. I work utilizing a wide range of clinical modalities such as CBT, DBT, Behavioral therapy, Trauma-informed therapy, Christian Counseling, Motivational Interviewing, and Acceptance Therapy to name a few.
I specialize in helping clients with trauma/PTSD, stress, anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, addiction, life changes, self-esteem, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, ADHD, schizophrenia, psychotic disorders and cognitive distortions to give you a general idea.
My name is Damara C Ferguson, LICSW in the state of Ohio. Currently I see clients through telehealth/video sessions only. I have over 15 years of experience and I love providing therapy; I consider it a privilege to walk alongside client's as they heal, grow and learn ways to cope with life's difficulties. I work utilizing a wide range of clinical modalities such as CBT, DBT, Behavioral therapy, Trauma-informed therapy, Christian Counseling, Motivational Interviewing, and Acceptance Therapy to name a few.
(380) 225-5584 View (380) 225-5584
Photo of Dr. Noriyo Shoji-Schaffner, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Noriyo Shoji-Schaffner
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Pickerington, OH 43147
Are you navigating personality disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety & depression, marital & familial conflicts, & grief? Are you ready to explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to improve your well-being by being open to asking tough questions, tackling big issues, and pursuing outcomes with perseverance? My goal is to provide support in improving relationships, managing stress, overcoming trauma, adopting healthier coping skills, & embracing fulfilling life options. My 15 years of clinical experience as a racial/ethnic minority practitioner has allowed me to cultivate expertise to assist racial/ethnic minority groups.
Are you navigating personality disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety & depression, marital & familial conflicts, & grief? Are you ready to explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to improve your well-being by being open to asking tough questions, tackling big issues, and pursuing outcomes with perseverance? My goal is to provide support in improving relationships, managing stress, overcoming trauma, adopting healthier coping skills, & embracing fulfilling life options. My 15 years of clinical experience as a racial/ethnic minority practitioner has allowed me to cultivate expertise to assist racial/ethnic minority groups.
(614) 470-2782 View (614) 470-2782
Photo of Brandi Cihlar
Brandi Cihlar
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
Verified Verified
Pickerington, OH 43147  (Online Only)
Brandi is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with mental health and addiction experience who joined the practice in October of 2021. Brandi received her PhD from George Washington University in Counseling and has spent the last 17+ years working with adults suffering from depression, anxiety, addiction, and symptoms of Bipolar disorder, OCD, and Personality disorders. Brandi has so much experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, depression, and much more.
Brandi is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with mental health and addiction experience who joined the practice in October of 2021. Brandi received her PhD from George Washington University in Counseling and has spent the last 17+ years working with adults suffering from depression, anxiety, addiction, and symptoms of Bipolar disorder, OCD, and Personality disorders. Brandi has so much experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, depression, and much more.
(419) 749-0890 View (419) 749-0890
Photo of Jennifer Kirkpatrick, Counselor
Jennifer Kirkpatrick
Counselor
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081  (Online Only)
Sondermind logo Jennifer Kirkpatrick profile image Jennifer Kirkpatrick Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor location icon Video Practicing in Ohio shield icon Insurance Aetna, Anthem, CareSource, Centivo, ... See all below Request a Session Specialties Adolescent & teen mental/behavioral health Anxiety Depression OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder) SonderMind Video Telehealth Stress Trauma Anger Management ADHD (Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder) Autism spectrum support Bipolar Disorder Borderline Personality Disorder Children's mental/behavioral health Family relationships Grief / Bereavement Narcissistic Person
Sondermind logo Jennifer Kirkpatrick profile image Jennifer Kirkpatrick Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor location icon Video Practicing in Ohio shield icon Insurance Aetna, Anthem, CareSource, Centivo, ... See all below Request a Session Specialties Adolescent & teen mental/behavioral health Anxiety Depression OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder) SonderMind Video Telehealth Stress Trauma Anger Management ADHD (Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder) Autism spectrum support Bipolar Disorder Borderline Personality Disorder Children's mental/behavioral health Family relationships Grief / Bereavement Narcissistic Person
(330) 919-7494 View (330) 919-7494
Photo of Marianne Falk, LPCC, Counselor
Marianne Falk
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Reynoldsburg, OH 43068  (Online Only)
I've worked with diverse adult populations that included those that are managing life changes, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, familial and interpersonal issues to the chronically mentally ill.
Job loss, divorce, loss of a loved one, legal issues, health issues, even joyous occasions like a new addition to your family are just some of life's biggest challenges. Sometimes people can cope with life's instabilities for years and then suddenly, they just can't. The proverbial straw that has broken the camel's back. We learn the coping skills we once used are no longer working. By working together, we can develop effective ways to manage life's challenges I chose the counseling field out of a desire to help individuals find as much contentment in their lives as possible. My approach to helping clients is multi-faceted.
I've worked with diverse adult populations that included those that are managing life changes, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, familial and interpersonal issues to the chronically mentally ill.
Job loss, divorce, loss of a loved one, legal issues, health issues, even joyous occasions like a new addition to your family are just some of life's biggest challenges. Sometimes people can cope with life's instabilities for years and then suddenly, they just can't. The proverbial straw that has broken the camel's back. We learn the coping skills we once used are no longer working. By working together, we can develop effective ways to manage life's challenges I chose the counseling field out of a desire to help individuals find as much contentment in their lives as possible. My approach to helping clients is multi-faceted.
(380) 201-9254 View (380) 201-9254
Photo of Dr. Bowen Marshall, MA, LPCC-S, PhD
Dr. Bowen Marshall
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor , MA, LPCC-S, PhD
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43086  (Online Only)
I have experience treating ADHD, anxiety, autism, bipolar disorder, depression, gender dysphoria, trauma, grief, and chronic illness.
I believe the most important question we can ask ourselves is, "What do I want?" I believe that everyone has an ability to move towards growth, healing, and fulfillment. I approach therapy from a perspective learning and believe that the more we learn about ourselves, the better able we are to make choices about how we want to move forward in life. I use an integrative framework to address each client’s individual needs. I work from a trauma informed lens and use interventions from existential, Attachment Theory, Gottman, ACT, IPT, and EFT.
I have experience treating ADHD, anxiety, autism, bipolar disorder, depression, gender dysphoria, trauma, grief, and chronic illness.
I believe the most important question we can ask ourselves is, "What do I want?" I believe that everyone has an ability to move towards growth, healing, and fulfillment. I approach therapy from a perspective learning and believe that the more we learn about ourselves, the better able we are to make choices about how we want to move forward in life. I use an integrative framework to address each client’s individual needs. I work from a trauma informed lens and use interventions from existential, Attachment Theory, Gottman, ACT, IPT, and EFT.
(380) 221-7373 View (380) 221-7373
Photo of Debbie Sherman, LPCC
Debbie Sherman
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43213
Debbie Sherman, LPCC, is a licensed professional clinical counselor. She received her bachelor's degree in psychology from The Ohio State University. She received her master's degree in clinical counseling from the University of Dayton. Debbie has over 25 years of experience providing individual counseling in a variety of settings which include community mental health, private practice and the Hospice of Columbus. Debbie works with adults dealing with a variety of concerns which include anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorders, weight concerns, bereavement, stress and relationship concerns.
Debbie Sherman, LPCC, is a licensed professional clinical counselor. She received her bachelor's degree in psychology from The Ohio State University. She received her master's degree in clinical counseling from the University of Dayton. Debbie has over 25 years of experience providing individual counseling in a variety of settings which include community mental health, private practice and the Hospice of Columbus. Debbie works with adults dealing with a variety of concerns which include anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorders, weight concerns, bereavement, stress and relationship concerns.
(380) 666-4948 View (380) 666-4948
Photo of Dr. Felisha Teanna Jackson Ilyas, EdD-CI, MSW, BS, LICSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Felisha Teanna Jackson Ilyas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, EdD-CI, MSW, BS, LICSW-S
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43219  (Online Only)
Specializing in the treatment of Depression, Generalized Anxiety d/o, Bipolar d/o, Schizophrenia, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and Substance Use Disorders.
My goal as a Therapist is to provide emotional support while fostering continuous health and wellness in efforts to improve your quality of life. I engage from a place of compassion and care. It is important to me that you feel supported in our work together. I will challenge you to always work toward becoming a better version of yourself.
Specializing in the treatment of Depression, Generalized Anxiety d/o, Bipolar d/o, Schizophrenia, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and Substance Use Disorders.
My goal as a Therapist is to provide emotional support while fostering continuous health and wellness in efforts to improve your quality of life. I engage from a place of compassion and care. It is important to me that you feel supported in our work together. I will challenge you to always work toward becoming a better version of yourself.
(513) 960-4597 View (513) 960-4597
Photo of Stephanie K Starks - Starks Counseling & Consultation Services, LLC, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Starks Counseling & Consultation Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Reynoldsburg, OH 43068
She also treats clients who struggle with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, & personality disorders.
Stephanie K. Starks, LISW-S, is a therapist and owner of Starks Counseling & Consultation Services, LLC . She 20 years of experience providing trauma-focused therapy. The goal at Starks Counseling is to provide “hope and healing” in a calm, supportive, and non-judgmental therapeutic environment. She and her staff do this by empowering their clients with the knowledge, skills and confidence to be active participants in their own healing, as they believe that they are all simply vessels in which to help facilitate the healing process.
She also treats clients who struggle with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, & personality disorders.
Stephanie K. Starks, LISW-S, is a therapist and owner of Starks Counseling & Consultation Services, LLC . She 20 years of experience providing trauma-focused therapy. The goal at Starks Counseling is to provide “hope and healing” in a calm, supportive, and non-judgmental therapeutic environment. She and her staff do this by empowering their clients with the knowledge, skills and confidence to be active participants in their own healing, as they believe that they are all simply vessels in which to help facilitate the healing process.
(614) 831-1396 View (614) 831-1396
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.