Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Lima, OH

Photo of Ashley Hinkle, MS, LPCC-S, LCDCIII
Ashley Hinkle
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC-S, LCDCIII
Verified Verified
Lima, OH 45805  (Online Only)
Do you ever struggle with depression, trauma, grief, anxiety, addiction relationships and/or stress management? I utilize a person centered and client focused approach to help you navigate life. I provide a safe and non-judgmental space for us to work on your therapeutic goals to get you feeling better and becoming the best version of yourself. I have been working in the mental health and community behavioral health fields since 2014. I became a therapist because I love to help others and I find it to be a great privilege to be a part of someone's journey to healing.
Do you ever struggle with depression, trauma, grief, anxiety, addiction relationships and/or stress management? I utilize a person centered and client focused approach to help you navigate life. I provide a safe and non-judgmental space for us to work on your therapeutic goals to get you feeling better and becoming the best version of yourself. I have been working in the mental health and community behavioral health fields since 2014. I became a therapist because I love to help others and I find it to be a great privilege to be a part of someone's journey to healing.
(419) 643-9850 View (419) 643-9850
Photo of Michelle R Salazar - Momentum Counseling and Consultation, LLC, LISW-S, LICDCCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Momentum Counseling and Consultation, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, LICDCCS
Verified Verified
Lima, OH 45801
Struggling with a relationship, anxiety, depression, or something else? We believe it’s never too late to be your authentic self. We can help you live a healthy, meaningful life and find the strength to grow and flourish. We know seeking help can be hard. So our counselors celebrate the courage and strength it takes to reach out for help. Most people debate seeking help for months, if not years before finding the courage to reach out. It’s OK to struggle with the stuff life throws at us. We have the experience to help you achieve your goals, overcome struggles, and live a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Struggling with a relationship, anxiety, depression, or something else? We believe it’s never too late to be your authentic self. We can help you live a healthy, meaningful life and find the strength to grow and flourish. We know seeking help can be hard. So our counselors celebrate the courage and strength it takes to reach out for help. Most people debate seeking help for months, if not years before finding the courage to reach out. It’s OK to struggle with the stuff life throws at us. We have the experience to help you achieve your goals, overcome struggles, and live a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(419) 518-5053 View (419) 518-5053
Photo of Heather Koontz, MSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Koontz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Lima, OH 45801
Welcome to Therapy Works! If you are seeking a safe, compassionate and non-judgmental therapeutic environment, I might be the therapist for you. Therapy isn't "just talking". You should be getting what you need out of it at each session! I feel educating about mental health problems is essential to the work we do together, with a blend of evidenced based treatment interventions for improvement. After 26 years in the mental health field, I have a strong knowledge base of how to help. I'll also work to tailor treatment approaches to your exact symptoms and problems. I serve Youth, Adolescents, Adults and Couples.
Welcome to Therapy Works! If you are seeking a safe, compassionate and non-judgmental therapeutic environment, I might be the therapist for you. Therapy isn't "just talking". You should be getting what you need out of it at each session! I feel educating about mental health problems is essential to the work we do together, with a blend of evidenced based treatment interventions for improvement. After 26 years in the mental health field, I have a strong knowledge base of how to help. I'll also work to tailor treatment approaches to your exact symptoms and problems. I serve Youth, Adolescents, Adults and Couples.
(567) 223-2430 View (567) 223-2430
Photo of Lori Klaus - Klaus Counseling Group, LLC, LPCC-S, CDCA, Counselor
Klaus Counseling Group, LLC
Counselor, LPCC-S, CDCA
Verified Verified
Lima, OH 45801  (Online Only)
I work with adults to overcome their challenges to achieve their goals and thrive in a supportive, compassionate, and non-judgmental way. I specialize in marital issues, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, anger management, stress management, grief, trauma, life transitions, co-dependency, and relationship issues. I am trained in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, solution-focused therapy, trauma informed care, and the Gottman method. I am passionate about helping my clients through a person-centered approach to meet each client where they are at and to collaborate in developing a plan to meet their needs.
I work with adults to overcome their challenges to achieve their goals and thrive in a supportive, compassionate, and non-judgmental way. I specialize in marital issues, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, anger management, stress management, grief, trauma, life transitions, co-dependency, and relationship issues. I am trained in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, solution-focused therapy, trauma informed care, and the Gottman method. I am passionate about helping my clients through a person-centered approach to meet each client where they are at and to collaborate in developing a plan to meet their needs.
(419) 910-4034 View (419) 910-4034
Photo of Allison C Mueller-Warnecke, LPCC-S
Allison C Mueller-Warnecke
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Lima, OH 45805
Sometimes life can be tough, and it's okay to feel overwhelmed or unsure about how to cope. Whether you're feeling depressed, anxious, or just unsure about how to handle a life transition, I'm here to help. In our sessions, we'll work together to identify what's causing your feelings of sadness, stress, or uncertainty. We'll talk about your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and develop personalized strategies for managing your emotions and finding new ways to cope with life's challenges.
Sometimes life can be tough, and it's okay to feel overwhelmed or unsure about how to cope. Whether you're feeling depressed, anxious, or just unsure about how to handle a life transition, I'm here to help. In our sessions, we'll work together to identify what's causing your feelings of sadness, stress, or uncertainty. We'll talk about your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and develop personalized strategies for managing your emotions and finding new ways to cope with life's challenges.
(419) 827-5221 View (419) 827-5221
Photo of Laurel Neufeld Weaver, MSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laurel Neufeld Weaver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Lima, OH 45801
Not accepting new clients
I began my journey towards the art of healing through therapy after working in community mental health where I recognized how active listening matched with providing tools of healing and hope helped to change people's lives. I believe that individuals have the potential within themselves to discover their own healing journey. My therapeutic style is eclectic, utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-focused care, narrative therapy and solution-focused therapy. I believe that I bring a unique voice of care in working with survivors of sexual violence and human trafficking.
I began my journey towards the art of healing through therapy after working in community mental health where I recognized how active listening matched with providing tools of healing and hope helped to change people's lives. I believe that individuals have the potential within themselves to discover their own healing journey. My therapeutic style is eclectic, utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-focused care, narrative therapy and solution-focused therapy. I believe that I bring a unique voice of care in working with survivors of sexual violence and human trafficking.
(419) 600-0098 View (419) 600-0098
Photo of Amanda Lafferty, MA, LPC, LPCC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Lafferty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LPC, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lima, OH 45805
Not accepting new clients
The number one “rule” we therapists follow is autonomy for our clients – you lead the sessions, make your decisions, and allow yourself to have space and time to unburden yourself. Of course, we therapists are there to assist you through this journey. Mental health therapy is a journey to explore and become self-aware of the whys of what we do. My goal is to guide you through that journey when you need assistance.
The number one “rule” we therapists follow is autonomy for our clients – you lead the sessions, make your decisions, and allow yourself to have space and time to unburden yourself. Of course, we therapists are there to assist you through this journey. Mental health therapy is a journey to explore and become self-aware of the whys of what we do. My goal is to guide you through that journey when you need assistance.
(419) 664-3466 View (419) 664-3466

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Joan E. Collar, MSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joan E. Collar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cairo, OH 45820
My focus is truly about helping people. We all experience challenges in our lives and feel out of balance from time to time. I believe my role is to help people identify challenges and discover methods to address those challenges-returning balance in their lives. I have treated adolescents, adults and the geriatric population- both in the hospital setting and in general practice. Recently, I completed a certificate course in Sports Social Work. This has expanded my practice to include a special focus for athletes, not only to enhance performance but to address specific needs of athletes.
My focus is truly about helping people. We all experience challenges in our lives and feel out of balance from time to time. I believe my role is to help people identify challenges and discover methods to address those challenges-returning balance in their lives. I have treated adolescents, adults and the geriatric population- both in the hospital setting and in general practice. Recently, I completed a certificate course in Sports Social Work. This has expanded my practice to include a special focus for athletes, not only to enhance performance but to address specific needs of athletes.
(419) 659-5998 View (419) 659-5998

Online Therapists

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 Janell Supanich, Marriage & Family Therapist
Janell Supanich
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Huber Heights, OH 45424  (Online Only)
She is EFT trained and also specializes in bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, family conflict, infidelity, marriage conflict and coping skills.
Janell Supanich, is dually licensed as an independent marriage and family therapist and licensed professional counselor. She gained her master's degree from the University of Akron. Janell has experience with people of all ages, populations, diagnoses and needs. She thinks it is important to be down-to-earth and find the unique qualities that you as an individual have, as this allows you to gain perspective and insight into the things that are causing problems in your life.
She is EFT trained and also specializes in bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, family conflict, infidelity, marriage conflict and coping skills.
Janell Supanich, is dually licensed as an independent marriage and family therapist and licensed professional counselor. She gained her master's degree from the University of Akron. Janell has experience with people of all ages, populations, diagnoses and needs. She thinks it is important to be down-to-earth and find the unique qualities that you as an individual have, as this allows you to gain perspective and insight into the things that are causing problems in your life.
(937) 714-7507 View (937) 714-7507
Photo of Kelly B Ullman, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelly B Ullman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Worthington, OH 43085
I help clients with stress and anxiety, depression, coping with addictions, bipolar and borderline, trauma and abuse, as well as motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I will help you remember who you are at your core. You are greater than what has happened in your life! I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming challenges. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! I look forward to meeting with you. :)
I help clients with stress and anxiety, depression, coping with addictions, bipolar and borderline, trauma and abuse, as well as motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I will help you remember who you are at your core. You are greater than what has happened in your life! I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming challenges. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! I look forward to meeting with you. :)
(380) 220-8622 View (380) 220-8622
Photo of Katelyn McGookey, LPCC, Counselor
Katelyn McGookey
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Hilliard, OH 43026
Katelyn Mcgookey, LPCC-S is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. She earned her undergraduate degree from The Ohio State University and completed her master's degree in Counselor Education from Ohio University. Kate considers herself a generalist, with areas of focus including: abuse/domestic violence, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, depression, LGBTQ services, parenting, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and stress management. She has experience working in school-based settings,youth residential treatment, drug and alcohol treatment, and outpatient counseling.
Katelyn Mcgookey, LPCC-S is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. She earned her undergraduate degree from The Ohio State University and completed her master's degree in Counselor Education from Ohio University. Kate considers herself a generalist, with areas of focus including: abuse/domestic violence, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, depression, LGBTQ services, parenting, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and stress management. She has experience working in school-based settings,youth residential treatment, drug and alcohol treatment, and outpatient counseling.
(380) 333-9685 View (380) 333-9685
Photo of Creshawn Hatchett, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Creshawn Hatchett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toledo, OH 43615
I have 7yrs of experience working with adolescents, children, adults, families, and couples who experience symptoms of depression, anxiety, ODD, ADHD, DMDD, autism, low self-esteem, self-harm and bipolar disorder.
I am here to provide a safe and judgment free space where you can be YOU without judgement. This journey is YOURS and I am here to help you navigate it. We all have things that we struggle with in life and dealing with those things alone can be difficult. I am here to help teach you the proper tools you’ll need to get through the trials and tribulations you may face. I am here to be a listening ear and to help you reach your full potential. I enjoy being a therapist and I am happy to help you.
I have 7yrs of experience working with adolescents, children, adults, families, and couples who experience symptoms of depression, anxiety, ODD, ADHD, DMDD, autism, low self-esteem, self-harm and bipolar disorder.
I am here to provide a safe and judgment free space where you can be YOU without judgement. This journey is YOURS and I am here to help you navigate it. We all have things that we struggle with in life and dealing with those things alone can be difficult. I am here to help teach you the proper tools you’ll need to get through the trials and tribulations you may face. I am here to be a listening ear and to help you reach your full potential. I enjoy being a therapist and I am happy to help you.
(419) 969-6050 View (419) 969-6050
Photo of Jeremy Vanderpool, LCP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jeremy Vanderpool
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCP
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45459
He enjoys working with a broad range of behavioral health issues which include anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, grief, and adjustment disorder.
Jeremy Vanderpool is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2016. He obtained his Master's degree in Counseling and Human Relations from Lindsey Wilson College. He also holds a Bachelor's degree in Professional Counseling and Human and Social Services from Lindsey Wilson College. He also obtained an Associate's degree in Chemical Dependency Counseling from Southern State Community College. Jeremy has been working in inpatient and outpatient treatment centers treating clients for substance use disorders as well as mental health disorders. His experience is in working with adults.
He enjoys working with a broad range of behavioral health issues which include anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, grief, and adjustment disorder.
Jeremy Vanderpool is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2016. He obtained his Master's degree in Counseling and Human Relations from Lindsey Wilson College. He also holds a Bachelor's degree in Professional Counseling and Human and Social Services from Lindsey Wilson College. He also obtained an Associate's degree in Chemical Dependency Counseling from Southern State Community College. Jeremy has been working in inpatient and outpatient treatment centers treating clients for substance use disorders as well as mental health disorders. His experience is in working with adults.
(937) 975-2299 View (937) 975-2299
Photo of Adelma Reyes, LPCC
Adelma Reyes
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Reynoldsburg, OH 43068  (Online Only)
Adelma is a master level licensed clinical counselor (LPCC in OH); licensed mental health counselor (LMHC in FL); licensed professional counselor (LPC in SC) She graduated from Barry University in South Florida and has been in the mental health field for over 20 years. She works mostly with adults struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, life transitions, and substance use disorders. She has been told by her clients that she makes them feel comfortable and that she is easy to talk to.
Adelma is a master level licensed clinical counselor (LPCC in OH); licensed mental health counselor (LMHC in FL); licensed professional counselor (LPC in SC) She graduated from Barry University in South Florida and has been in the mental health field for over 20 years. She works mostly with adults struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, life transitions, and substance use disorders. She has been told by her clients that she makes them feel comfortable and that she is easy to talk to.
(614) 662-4897 View (614) 662-4897
Photo of Cathy Ritterbusch, JD, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cathy Ritterbusch
Licensed Professional Counselor, JD, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43206
I have experience treating clients adjusting to life changes, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, childhood trauma, bipolar disorder, and grief.
Supportive empowerment are the two words that best describe my approach. I counsel adults at all life stages who are confronting challenges and changes, the uninvited and the ones you are seeking for yourself. With a wide variety of life experiences, including as a lawyer and professor previous to counseling, and a mental health odyssey of my own, I serve clients with passion and purpose. Curious what it would be like to be more alive? Reach out to me to schedule a free 15-minute consultation.
I have experience treating clients adjusting to life changes, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, childhood trauma, bipolar disorder, and grief.
Supportive empowerment are the two words that best describe my approach. I counsel adults at all life stages who are confronting challenges and changes, the uninvited and the ones you are seeking for yourself. With a wide variety of life experiences, including as a lawyer and professor previous to counseling, and a mental health odyssey of my own, I serve clients with passion and purpose. Curious what it would be like to be more alive? Reach out to me to schedule a free 15-minute consultation.
(614) 858-3206 View (614) 858-3206
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 Kristina L Edler - Kristina L. Edler, LLC, MSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristina L. Edler, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Upper Arlington, OH 43221
Waitlist for new clients
With over 10 years of experience, I am able to address issues such as Depression, Anxiety, Grief, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, ADD/ADHD, Substance Abuse, and Relationship Difficulties using CBT, DBT, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, and a Solution Focused Strengths-Based approach.
Welcome adults, teens, LGBTQ, couples, and families who are in need of a therapist with a sense of humor, engaging personality, perceptive mind, and caring attitude. As a client, you will experience a safe, non-judgmental place in which to process and explore feelings related to mood disorders, relationship issues, ADHD, grief, anxiety, substance abuse, and trauma. It is my goal to provide my clients with the tools necessary to take charge of their own thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in order to reduce stress and enjoy life.
With over 10 years of experience, I am able to address issues such as Depression, Anxiety, Grief, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, ADD/ADHD, Substance Abuse, and Relationship Difficulties using CBT, DBT, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, and a Solution Focused Strengths-Based approach.
Welcome adults, teens, LGBTQ, couples, and families who are in need of a therapist with a sense of humor, engaging personality, perceptive mind, and caring attitude. As a client, you will experience a safe, non-judgmental place in which to process and explore feelings related to mood disorders, relationship issues, ADHD, grief, anxiety, substance abuse, and trauma. It is my goal to provide my clients with the tools necessary to take charge of their own thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in order to reduce stress and enjoy life.
(380) 205-2516 View (380) 205-2516
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 Amanda Odeh, MA, LPCC
Amanda Odeh
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor , MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Perrysburg, OH 43551  (Online Only)
Safety and comfort are two areas of focus for my treatment with my clients. These two factors allow my clients and I to work together to reach their desired goals. I believe that in order for the goals to be reached that it is vital that my clients are in an open, safe environment so that they feel they can speak what is on their mind. I utilize a variety of techniques such as mindfulness and cognitive behavioral based with my clients. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, bipolar, and obsessive-compulsive disorders. I have worked with various areas of concern such as grief, boundaries, communication skills, and anger.
Safety and comfort are two areas of focus for my treatment with my clients. These two factors allow my clients and I to work together to reach their desired goals. I believe that in order for the goals to be reached that it is vital that my clients are in an open, safe environment so that they feel they can speak what is on their mind. I utilize a variety of techniques such as mindfulness and cognitive behavioral based with my clients. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, bipolar, and obsessive-compulsive disorders. I have worked with various areas of concern such as grief, boundaries, communication skills, and anger.
(419) 546-0396 View (419) 546-0396

See more therapy options for Lima

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.