Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Kings Mills, OH

Photo of Sarah Cadwallader, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Cadwallader
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Kings Mills, OH 45034
Her areas of focus include adults, couples/marital, families, adolescents and psychoeducational groups, substance use/addiction, anxiety disorders, depression, Bipolar, PTSD, violence prevention, parenting issues.
Sarah Cadwallader, LISW-S Sarah Cadwallader is a Licensed Independent Social Worker and Supervisor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2000. She has a Masters in Social Work from the University of Cincinnati. Sarah believes treatment is a partnership that involves active, ongoing work. Instead of adhering strictly to one approach, Sarah takes into consideration the uniqueness and individuality of the client. Relevant therapeutic methods are adapted and integrated to create a holistic treatment plan that best serves the client's needs. Sarah loves helping her staff grow as clinicians and invests much time into them.
Her areas of focus include adults, couples/marital, families, adolescents and psychoeducational groups, substance use/addiction, anxiety disorders, depression, Bipolar, PTSD, violence prevention, parenting issues.
Sarah Cadwallader, LISW-S Sarah Cadwallader is a Licensed Independent Social Worker and Supervisor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2000. She has a Masters in Social Work from the University of Cincinnati. Sarah believes treatment is a partnership that involves active, ongoing work. Instead of adhering strictly to one approach, Sarah takes into consideration the uniqueness and individuality of the client. Relevant therapeutic methods are adapted and integrated to create a holistic treatment plan that best serves the client's needs. Sarah loves helping her staff grow as clinicians and invests much time into them.
(513) 548-4109 View (513) 548-4109
Photo of Jeremiah Smith, MAEd,  LPCC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jeremiah Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAEd, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Kings Mills, OH 45034
Jeremiah Smith, LPCCS, brings a compassionate, clientcentered approach to therapy, partnering with patients across Ohio as they navigate life’s challenges and transitions. With a focus on building a strong therapeutic alliance, Jeremiah approaches each session as a collaborative space where clients can openly share their experiences and actively work toward personal growth. He primarily uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), helping clients recognize and modify thought patterns that may be impacting their wellbeing, while creating a comfortable environment for selfexpression and progress.
Jeremiah Smith, LPCCS, brings a compassionate, clientcentered approach to therapy, partnering with patients across Ohio as they navigate life’s challenges and transitions. With a focus on building a strong therapeutic alliance, Jeremiah approaches each session as a collaborative space where clients can openly share their experiences and actively work toward personal growth. He primarily uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), helping clients recognize and modify thought patterns that may be impacting their wellbeing, while creating a comfortable environment for selfexpression and progress.
(844) 233-3895 View (844) 233-3895
Photo of Jessica L Penkal, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica L Penkal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Kings Mills, OH 45034
Jessica L. Penkal is a Licensed Social Worker in Ohio who has been practicing since 2021. She has a Master's of Arts in Social Work and a Master's of Arts in Clinical Psychology. Are you on a journey of self-discovery? Are you having difficulty communicating your needs and creating boundaries with others? Are you part of the LGBTQIA+ community in need of support and affirmations? Are you wanting to learn what barriers are preventing from you achieving your goals? Do you have difficulty regulating your emotions? If any of these questions resonate with you then Jessica could be the right therapist for you.
Jessica L. Penkal is a Licensed Social Worker in Ohio who has been practicing since 2021. She has a Master's of Arts in Social Work and a Master's of Arts in Clinical Psychology. Are you on a journey of self-discovery? Are you having difficulty communicating your needs and creating boundaries with others? Are you part of the LGBTQIA+ community in need of support and affirmations? Are you wanting to learn what barriers are preventing from you achieving your goals? Do you have difficulty regulating your emotions? If any of these questions resonate with you then Jessica could be the right therapist for you.
(513) 796-3224 View (513) 796-3224
Photo of Michael Shaun Perciful, PhD, PsyD, Psychologist
Michael Shaun Perciful
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD
Verified Verified
Kings Mills, OH 45034
Shaun Perciful received his doctoral degree in clinical psychology from Wright State University's School of Professional Psychology. He completed an APA-approved internship and a two-year postdoctoral fellowship. He was a recipient of the Dean's Award for Sustained Superior Performance from his alma mater, as well as the President/CEO Award for Exemplary Service from his prior place of employment. He has provided integrated mental health and substance use services in private practice, community mental health, and inpatient settings.
Shaun Perciful received his doctoral degree in clinical psychology from Wright State University's School of Professional Psychology. He completed an APA-approved internship and a two-year postdoctoral fellowship. He was a recipient of the Dean's Award for Sustained Superior Performance from his alma mater, as well as the President/CEO Award for Exemplary Service from his prior place of employment. He has provided integrated mental health and substance use services in private practice, community mental health, and inpatient settings.
(513) 790-4275 View (513) 790-4275
Photo of Erica Kavalauskas, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erica Kavalauskas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Kings Mills, OH 45034
Erica Kavalauskas is a Licensed Independent Social Worker Supervisor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2017. She has a Bachelor of Science in Social Work from Bowling Green State University and a Master of Social Work from Indiana Wesleyan University. Erica is trained in CBT, Solution Focused, and Motivational Interviewing. She is passionate about play therapy and is Theraplay level 1 trained. Outside of work, Erica likes to travel, see friends and family, and play with her 2 cats.
Erica Kavalauskas is a Licensed Independent Social Worker Supervisor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2017. She has a Bachelor of Science in Social Work from Bowling Green State University and a Master of Social Work from Indiana Wesleyan University. Erica is trained in CBT, Solution Focused, and Motivational Interviewing. She is passionate about play therapy and is Theraplay level 1 trained. Outside of work, Erica likes to travel, see friends and family, and play with her 2 cats.
(513) 647-2996 View (513) 647-2996

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Shantel Thomas - A Sound Mind Counseling Service, PhD, PCC, LSW, Counselor
A Sound Mind Counseling Service
Counselor, PhD, PCC, LSW
Verified Verified
West Chester, OH 45069
The therapists at A Sound Mind Counseling Service understand life challenges, trauma and pain. We are here to help and that is why we specialize in variety of issues such as: Anger, Anxiety, Depression, Marriage Counseling, Addictions, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Children, Christian Counseling, Mens and Womens Issues, Sexual Addiction, Pre and Post Marital Issues, Teens and Groups for Teens and Women. We have therapist who specialize in multicultural issues and American Sign Language. We also have interns who offer probono sessions.
The therapists at A Sound Mind Counseling Service understand life challenges, trauma and pain. We are here to help and that is why we specialize in variety of issues such as: Anger, Anxiety, Depression, Marriage Counseling, Addictions, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Children, Christian Counseling, Mens and Womens Issues, Sexual Addiction, Pre and Post Marital Issues, Teens and Groups for Teens and Women. We have therapist who specialize in multicultural issues and American Sign Language. We also have interns who offer probono sessions.
(513) 899-6412 View (513) 899-6412
Photo of Jami Munn, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Jami Munn
Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Verified Verified
Mason, OH 45040  (Online Only)
I have work with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, substance use, bipolar disorder, major life changes, difficulty controlling anger, and other mental and emotional complications.
Are you wanting to increase happiness and overall satisfaction with your life? Would you like to work towards gaining control of your thoughts, feelings, and actions? Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, low self-worth, addiction, trauma, or just simply feeling overwhelmed with life, these are goals that you can reach. Through counseling I want to help you take back the control and start living your best life. I take a client centered approach, helping you to feel motivated and capable
I have work with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, substance use, bipolar disorder, major life changes, difficulty controlling anger, and other mental and emotional complications.
Are you wanting to increase happiness and overall satisfaction with your life? Would you like to work towards gaining control of your thoughts, feelings, and actions? Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, low self-worth, addiction, trauma, or just simply feeling overwhelmed with life, these are goals that you can reach. Through counseling I want to help you take back the control and start living your best life. I take a client centered approach, helping you to feel motivated and capable
(220) 235-5357 View (220) 235-5357
Photo of Tina Bulucea, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tina Bulucea
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Loveland, OH 45140
I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker with a wealth of knowledge and expertise in helping patients who suffer from any of the following - depression, bipolar and anxiety disorders; chronic pain/illness/terminal illness; grieving, death and bereavement (to include pet loss); PTSD for Veterans and survivors of any type of abuse; adults on the autism spectr.
I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker with a wealth of knowledge and expertise in helping patients who suffer from any of the following - depression, bipolar and anxiety disorders; chronic pain/illness/terminal illness; grieving, death and bereavement (to include pet loss); PTSD for Veterans and survivors of any type of abuse; adults on the autism spectrum; couples, premarital, and marriage counseling; LGBTQIA +, as well as gender identity problems; and, geriatrics
I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker with a wealth of knowledge and expertise in helping patients who suffer from any of the following - depression, bipolar and anxiety disorders; chronic pain/illness/terminal illness; grieving, death and bereavement (to include pet loss); PTSD for Veterans and survivors of any type of abuse; adults on the autism spectr.
I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker with a wealth of knowledge and expertise in helping patients who suffer from any of the following - depression, bipolar and anxiety disorders; chronic pain/illness/terminal illness; grieving, death and bereavement (to include pet loss); PTSD for Veterans and survivors of any type of abuse; adults on the autism spectrum; couples, premarital, and marriage counseling; LGBTQIA +, as well as gender identity problems; and, geriatrics
(513) 796-4656 View (513) 796-4656
Photo of Linda Ellerbrock
Linda Ellerbrock
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
Verified Verified
Mason, OH 45040  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and a Licensed Social Worker. I received my bachelor’s and master’s degree from Bowling Green State University. I have over 30 years of experience in the mental health field. I have worked in community mental health, private practice as well as online telehealth. I have worked with all age groups but especially enjoy working with adolescents and young adults. I have experience working with clients with depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, PTSD, grief, but I am not limited to these specialties.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and a Licensed Social Worker. I received my bachelor’s and master’s degree from Bowling Green State University. I have over 30 years of experience in the mental health field. I have worked in community mental health, private practice as well as online telehealth. I have worked with all age groups but especially enjoy working with adolescents and young adults. I have experience working with clients with depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, PTSD, grief, but I am not limited to these specialties.
(234) 301-4704 View (234) 301-4704
Photo of Damara Ferguson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Damara Ferguson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Simmes Township, OH 45140  (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 Niki Stephens, MSW,  LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Niki Stephens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45241
With a focus on treating anxiety, bipolar disorder, and depression, Niki utilizes a variety of evidencebased practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Niki Stephens, LCSW, is a dedicated therapist at LifeStance Health, serving patients in Ohio. Niki brings a wealth of experience to her practice, providing compassionate care to adults and seniors. She believes in empowering her clients to take control of their journeys, helping them develop the skills and strengths needed to overcome challenges and achieve their goals. Through her personalized approach, Niki creates a supportive environment where clients can feel understood and motivated to make positive changes.
With a focus on treating anxiety, bipolar disorder, and depression, Niki utilizes a variety of evidencebased practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Niki Stephens, LCSW, is a dedicated therapist at LifeStance Health, serving patients in Ohio. Niki brings a wealth of experience to her practice, providing compassionate care to adults and seniors. She believes in empowering her clients to take control of their journeys, helping them develop the skills and strengths needed to overcome challenges and achieve their goals. Through her personalized approach, Niki creates a supportive environment where clients can feel understood and motivated to make positive changes.
(844) 233-3895 View (844) 233-3895
Photo of Kimberly Hayes (Haskins), MSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly Hayes (Haskins)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45241  (Online Only)
Kimberly has a broad range of clinical experience working with individuals and groups during her professional career in the following areas: Depression Bipolar Disorder Anxiety Disorders Substance Use Disorders Anger and Stress Management Trauma and Abuse Suicide Assessment and Risk Reduction Group Psychotherapy Couple’s Conflict.
Kimberly completed her Master’s Degree in Social Work at the University of Louisville. She has over 15 years of clinical experience across a variety of settings including outpatient specialty clinics, crisis intervention, structured outpatient programs, inpatient psychiatric facilities, large non-profits, and private practice.
Kimberly has a broad range of clinical experience working with individuals and groups during her professional career in the following areas: Depression Bipolar Disorder Anxiety Disorders Substance Use Disorders Anger and Stress Management Trauma and Abuse Suicide Assessment and Risk Reduction Group Psychotherapy Couple’s Conflict.
Kimberly completed her Master’s Degree in Social Work at the University of Louisville. She has over 15 years of clinical experience across a variety of settings including outpatient specialty clinics, crisis intervention, structured outpatient programs, inpatient psychiatric facilities, large non-profits, and private practice.
(513) 654-9769 View (513) 654-9769
Photo of Mary Beth Barbush-Kirila, Counselor
Mary Beth Barbush-Kirila
Counselor
Verified Verified
Simmes Township, OH 45140  (Online Only)
I am an experienced licensed professional counselor who works with adults of all ages. My special interests include: Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Life transitions, Relationship problems, Codependency, Aging and Chronic pian. I am experienced in CBT, EMDR and other modalities. I help empower people to reduce their suffering and regain the ability to enjoy their lives.
I am an experienced licensed professional counselor who works with adults of all ages. My special interests include: Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Life transitions, Relationship problems, Codependency, Aging and Chronic pian. I am experienced in CBT, EMDR and other modalities. I help empower people to reduce their suffering and regain the ability to enjoy their lives.
(866) 738-3081 View (866) 738-3081
Photo of Mindy Lawson, MEd,  LPCC
Mindy Lawson
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, LPCC
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45241
Mindy J. Lawson, LPCC, NCC, is a dedicated therapist at LifeStance Health in Ohio, committed to helping clients discover their purpose in life. She believes in a solution-focused approach that empowers individuals to identify their strengths, overcome trauma and setbacks, and pursue their passions. Serving clients across Ohio, Mindy provides compassionate and expert care to adolescents, adults, and seniors. Mindy specializes in treating a range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, and PTSD/trauma.
Mindy J. Lawson, LPCC, NCC, is a dedicated therapist at LifeStance Health in Ohio, committed to helping clients discover their purpose in life. She believes in a solution-focused approach that empowers individuals to identify their strengths, overcome trauma and setbacks, and pursue their passions. Serving clients across Ohio, Mindy provides compassionate and expert care to adolescents, adults, and seniors. Mindy specializes in treating a range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, and PTSD/trauma.
(513) 547-9506 View (513) 547-9506
Photo of Lauren Solomon, LPC, LICDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauren Solomon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LICDC
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45242  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor in the state of Ohio. I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Anger Management, ADHD, Addiction, and Bipolar Disorder. I believe in taking a collaborative approach with my clients to help them reach their goals.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor in the state of Ohio. I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Anger Management, ADHD, Addiction, and Bipolar Disorder. I believe in taking a collaborative approach with my clients to help them reach their goals.
(740) 276-2788 View (740) 276-2788
Photo of Iris Pfeffer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Iris Pfeffer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Loveland, OH 45140  (Online Only)
An experienced professional, I offer extensive experience in psychotherapy in a variety of areas. I am especially conversant in working with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, family/couple issues, life transitions and trauma. I work with adults, adolescents over 13 years of age and senior adults. Although I work with warmth and compassion, I am also practical and knowledge based helping clients move forward toward their goals.
An experienced professional, I offer extensive experience in psychotherapy in a variety of areas. I am especially conversant in working with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, family/couple issues, life transitions and trauma. I work with adults, adolescents over 13 years of age and senior adults. Although I work with warmth and compassion, I am also practical and knowledge based helping clients move forward toward their goals.
(440) 750-1649 View (440) 750-1649
Photo of Pretty Amagbakhen, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pretty Amagbakhen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45241  (Online Only)
Iam a Licensed Independent Social Worker with a unique specialization in providing comprehensive care for Neurodivergent individuals, particularly those with ADHD and Autism who are facing mental health challenges. I hold certifications as an ADHD Certified Clinical Service Provider and ADHD Practitioner, focusing on supporting individuals with ADHD, Autism, and co-occurring disorders such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, and adjustment disorder.
Iam a Licensed Independent Social Worker with a unique specialization in providing comprehensive care for Neurodivergent individuals, particularly those with ADHD and Autism who are facing mental health challenges. I hold certifications as an ADHD Certified Clinical Service Provider and ADHD Practitioner, focusing on supporting individuals with ADHD, Autism, and co-occurring disorders such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, and adjustment disorder.
(513) 650-7776 View (513) 650-7776
Photo of Cary Hasselbacher
Cary Hasselbacher
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
Verified Verified
Simmes Township, OH 45140  (Online Only)
I have experience working with individuals suffering from anxiety, depression, addiction, grief, trauma, ADHD, Bipolar, OCD, domestic violence, self-esteem and relationship issues.
The first step towards making changes in your life and finding a counselor to help can be overwhelming! I have been providing mental health and addiction treatment to individuals for over 12 years after graduating from the University of Akron. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with Supervision Designation (LPCC-S). I offer my clients a non-judgmental and supportive environment filled with compassion to embark on their journey of change. I tailor the counseling process to fit each individual
I have experience working with individuals suffering from anxiety, depression, addiction, grief, trauma, ADHD, Bipolar, OCD, domestic violence, self-esteem and relationship issues.
The first step towards making changes in your life and finding a counselor to help can be overwhelming! I have been providing mental health and addiction treatment to individuals for over 12 years after graduating from the University of Akron. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with Supervision Designation (LPCC-S). I offer my clients a non-judgmental and supportive environment filled with compassion to embark on their journey of change. I tailor the counseling process to fit each individual
(380) 227-3394 View (380) 227-3394
Photo of Ashley Ping, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Ashley Ping
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45241
As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, My primary goal is to create a collaborative relationship with my clients that is built on trust, honesty, and authenticity. I am passionate about empowering women of all ages and teenagers ages 13 and above. I believe that everyone deserves to be heard and understood in the context of their life story. I strive to create a safe place where my clients can explore their experiences- a space free from judgment where people feel comfortable sharing their stories and finding healing.
As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, My primary goal is to create a collaborative relationship with my clients that is built on trust, honesty, and authenticity. I am passionate about empowering women of all ages and teenagers ages 13 and above. I believe that everyone deserves to be heard and understood in the context of their life story. I strive to create a safe place where my clients can explore their experiences- a space free from judgment where people feel comfortable sharing their stories and finding healing.
(513) 912-2574 View (513) 912-2574
Photo of Rebekah L Watkins, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebekah L Watkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mason, OH 45040
I offer a collaborative approach to find the best way to support you with your specific needs. Therapy should be a partnership that allows you an opportunity to contribute to the healing process. I have a laid back personality with a good sense of humor that helps others feel comfortable opening up. I believe that your counseling experience should be tailored to you and your specific needs. I work to facilitate open communication so that you feel comfortable collaborating on the best treatment for you.
I offer a collaborative approach to find the best way to support you with your specific needs. Therapy should be a partnership that allows you an opportunity to contribute to the healing process. I have a laid back personality with a good sense of humor that helps others feel comfortable opening up. I believe that your counseling experience should be tailored to you and your specific needs. I work to facilitate open communication so that you feel comfortable collaborating on the best treatment for you.
(440) 271-8192 View (440) 271-8192

See more therapy options for Kings Mills

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.