Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Macedonia, OH

Photo of Noelmi Hechabarria Menendez, MSSA, LISW-S, LICDC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Noelmi Hechabarria Menendez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW-S, LICDC
Verified Verified
Macedonia, OH 44056  (Online Only)
I have often explained the following analogy to motivate my patients to thrive: Replenish Your Well. The well water represents your resiliency; your ability to manage and respond appropriately to your environmental stressors. The bucket represents environmental and/or life stressors. Life is going to take buckets of water out of your well. Many people experience numerous life stressors, such as, financial problems, interpersonal relationship stressors, anxiety, depression, mood instability, etc.
I have often explained the following analogy to motivate my patients to thrive: Replenish Your Well. The well water represents your resiliency; your ability to manage and respond appropriately to your environmental stressors. The bucket represents environmental and/or life stressors. Life is going to take buckets of water out of your well. Many people experience numerous life stressors, such as, financial problems, interpersonal relationship stressors, anxiety, depression, mood instability, etc.
(234) 219-2175 View (234) 219-2175
Photo of Taufika Hafiz Sakhawat, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Taufika Hafiz Sakhawat
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Macedonia, OH 44056  (Online Only)
You are the expert on your life; you are the one who knows what goal you want to set up for your happiness. Do not let your stress, anxiety, depression, and self-defeating thoughts hold you back from your goal. People are often diagnosed with mental health conditions and substance use disorders. Risk factors for SUD usually include trauma, stress, anxiety, and depression. Acknowledging the symptoms are often difficult, with the therapy you will find your strength, triggers, and patterns and will be able to perceive a positive world to have a successful happy life.
You are the expert on your life; you are the one who knows what goal you want to set up for your happiness. Do not let your stress, anxiety, depression, and self-defeating thoughts hold you back from your goal. People are often diagnosed with mental health conditions and substance use disorders. Risk factors for SUD usually include trauma, stress, anxiety, and depression. Acknowledging the symptoms are often difficult, with the therapy you will find your strength, triggers, and patterns and will be able to perceive a positive world to have a successful happy life.
(330) 331-6785 View (330) 331-6785
Photo of Jennifer F. Yensel - The Cole Center, LPCC, PhD, LISW, LMFT, Counselor
The Cole Center
Counselor, LPCC, PhD, LISW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Macedonia, OH 44056
We are a small private practice, established to grow a brand based on transparency in therapy, clinicians who are passionate about their jobs and ongoing interpersonal and professional growth. Our clinicians are trained to treat all mental health diagnoses. Contact us for help selecting which therapist may meet your personal needs including scheduling, insurance coverage, and unique styles.
We are a small private practice, established to grow a brand based on transparency in therapy, clinicians who are passionate about their jobs and ongoing interpersonal and professional growth. Our clinicians are trained to treat all mental health diagnoses. Contact us for help selecting which therapist may meet your personal needs including scheduling, insurance coverage, and unique styles.
(216) 342-3771 View (216) 342-3771
Photo of Monica Myers, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Monica Myers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Macedonia, OH 44056
As a therapist I always aim to provide a safe, caring, confidential space for people to come to share their struggles and goals. I want to provide an environment that will help people work through their struggles to obtain their goals. I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker with a Supervisory Designation and a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor. I graduated from the University of Akron with a Master of Social Work. I have more than 15 years of experience in the field. I enjoy working with adults and there is no cap on age!
As a therapist I always aim to provide a safe, caring, confidential space for people to come to share their struggles and goals. I want to provide an environment that will help people work through their struggles to obtain their goals. I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker with a Supervisory Designation and a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor. I graduated from the University of Akron with a Master of Social Work. I have more than 15 years of experience in the field. I enjoy working with adults and there is no cap on age!
(234) 233-7847 View (234) 233-7847
Photo of Ashley M. Thomas-Bock, PsyD, Psychologist
Ashley M. Thomas-Bock
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Macedonia, OH 44056
Dr. Ashley M. ThomasBock is a Psychologist in Ohio who has been practicing since 2017. She has a B.S. in Psychology from University of Pittsburgh and a PsyD Doctoral Degree from Chatham University. Dr. ThomasBock partners with clients to assist them in understanding themselves and their challenges. They work together to find ways to improve the clients' day to day lives. Dr. ThomasBock enjoys seeing clients make meaningful changes in their lives and find more satisfaction and peace.
Dr. Ashley M. ThomasBock is a Psychologist in Ohio who has been practicing since 2017. She has a B.S. in Psychology from University of Pittsburgh and a PsyD Doctoral Degree from Chatham University. Dr. ThomasBock partners with clients to assist them in understanding themselves and their challenges. They work together to find ways to improve the clients' day to day lives. Dr. ThomasBock enjoys seeing clients make meaningful changes in their lives and find more satisfaction and peace.
(234) 742-4339 View (234) 742-4339
Photo of Keisha S Rivers, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Keisha S Rivers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Macedonia, OH 44056
Welcome! I am glad that you have come to my page. I am here to offer you a safe, relaxing and open environment so that we may work through any obstacles that you may be facing. Trauma, broken relationships, life changes, maternal issues, hard times, depression, parenting and marriage struggles-these things happen to even the strongest people and sometimes you just need someone to "hear" you. Learning how to cope with life's challenges will decrease feelings of hopelessness and sadness. Releasing negative thoughts will allow you to leave feeling "lighter" and replace them with positive thoughts and goals, hopeful for a better future
Welcome! I am glad that you have come to my page. I am here to offer you a safe, relaxing and open environment so that we may work through any obstacles that you may be facing. Trauma, broken relationships, life changes, maternal issues, hard times, depression, parenting and marriage struggles-these things happen to even the strongest people and sometimes you just need someone to "hear" you. Learning how to cope with life's challenges will decrease feelings of hopelessness and sadness. Releasing negative thoughts will allow you to leave feeling "lighter" and replace them with positive thoughts and goals, hopeful for a better future
(234) 231-8581 View (234) 231-8581

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Anderson R Hawes, LPCC, LICDC, LSW, Counselor
Anderson R Hawes
Counselor, LPCC, LICDC, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hudson, OH 44236
Accepting new clients! - adults, families/couples, teens & children - Depression, anxiety/panic/phobia, bipolar, grief, abuse/childhood trauma/PTSD, relationship (divorce/break-ups, child-teen parenting, LGBT), work/school (job loss, ADD/ADHD learning problems), Chemical Dependency Assessment & Treatment (alcohol, heroin/opioid, marijuana, meth, smoking, gambling, legal (DUI, possession, theft, etc.
Finding a compassionate and non-judgmental therapist is the first step to improve your quality of life and help you achieve outcomes that meet both present and future goals! I am an experienced Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, Licensed Social Worker & Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor - with advanced professional training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Clinical Hypnosis, Gestalt Therapy, Mindfulness, Trauma Recovery & Addictions - providing specialized psycho-social assessment, substance abuse assessments & effective treatments: addictions (heroin, opioid, rx drugs, alcohol, DUI, smoking, gambling, compulsive disorders), mental health, bi-polar, trauma recovery, depression, anxiety, family/couples/divorce, personality, emotional & adjustment problems. Free phone consultation!
Accepting new clients! - adults, families/couples, teens & children - Depression, anxiety/panic/phobia, bipolar, grief, abuse/childhood trauma/PTSD, relationship (divorce/break-ups, child-teen parenting, LGBT), work/school (job loss, ADD/ADHD learning problems), Chemical Dependency Assessment & Treatment (alcohol, heroin/opioid, marijuana, meth, smoking, gambling, legal (DUI, possession, theft, etc.
Finding a compassionate and non-judgmental therapist is the first step to improve your quality of life and help you achieve outcomes that meet both present and future goals! I am an experienced Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, Licensed Social Worker & Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor - with advanced professional training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Clinical Hypnosis, Gestalt Therapy, Mindfulness, Trauma Recovery & Addictions - providing specialized psycho-social assessment, substance abuse assessments & effective treatments: addictions (heroin, opioid, rx drugs, alcohol, DUI, smoking, gambling, compulsive disorders), mental health, bi-polar, trauma recovery, depression, anxiety, family/couples/divorce, personality, emotional & adjustment problems. Free phone consultation!
(330) 391-7509 View (330) 391-7509
Photo of Terrance Tufts, LPCC
Terrance Tufts
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Hudson, OH 44236
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.
(740) 638-0752 View (740) 638-0752
Photo of Dr. Lynn Luna Jones, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist
Dr. Lynn Luna Jones
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Hudson, OH 44237
Luna Jones provides psychological testing for a host of clinical issues, including, but not limited to, ADHD, autism, giftedness, learning disabilities, bipolar disorder, and neuropsychological concerns.
Dr. Lynn Luna Jones earned her Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from Temple University in 2004 and is a licensed psychologist. She has 20 years of experience in the field of psychology and has worked with children, adolescents, and adults, providing individual, family, couples, and group counseling services. She specializes in diagnostic assessment and is skilled in administering intellectual, achievement, personality, vocational, adaptive functioning, and other specialized tests.
Luna Jones provides psychological testing for a host of clinical issues, including, but not limited to, ADHD, autism, giftedness, learning disabilities, bipolar disorder, and neuropsychological concerns.
Dr. Lynn Luna Jones earned her Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from Temple University in 2004 and is a licensed psychologist. She has 20 years of experience in the field of psychology and has worked with children, adolescents, and adults, providing individual, family, couples, and group counseling services. She specializes in diagnostic assessment and is skilled in administering intellectual, achievement, personality, vocational, adaptive functioning, and other specialized tests.
(440) 306-3419 View (440) 306-3419
Photo of Caterina Hutchison, LISW
Caterina Hutchison
LISW
Verified Verified
Northfield, OH 44067
Hello. My name is Caterina Hutchison. I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker and have been practicing in the social work field for 20 years. I have worked with many populations, including children, adults, and older adults who have been diagnosed with anxiety, phobias, depression, personality disorders, PTSD, and bipolar disorders. I utilize several counseling techniques, including CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Person-Centered, SFBT, and Supportive therapies during treatments with my clients. I have always been dedicated to helping others and will continue down this path until the end of my career.
Hello. My name is Caterina Hutchison. I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker and have been practicing in the social work field for 20 years. I have worked with many populations, including children, adults, and older adults who have been diagnosed with anxiety, phobias, depression, personality disorders, PTSD, and bipolar disorders. I utilize several counseling techniques, including CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Person-Centered, SFBT, and Supportive therapies during treatments with my clients. I have always been dedicated to helping others and will continue down this path until the end of my career.
(513) 643-5801 View (513) 643-5801
Photo of Dr. Noriyo Shoji-Schaffner, LPC, PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Noriyo Shoji-Schaffner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PhD
Verified Verified
Hudson, OH 44236
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.
(330) 919-6316 View (330) 919-6316
Photo of Lori Wolfe, LPCC-S, Counselor
Lori Wolfe
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Hudson, OH 44236  (Online Only)
Lori also helps people with anger management issues, bipolar disorder, borderline personality, conduct issues, domestic violence, gender identity, grief, LGBTQ+ issues, OCD, phobias, PTSD, and sexual disorders/addictions.
Lori Wolfe earned her master's degree from Ohio University in 1994. She has worked in private practice settings, as well as community mental health. Lori's treatment focus is couples, adults, and very young children. She specializes in helping families with parenting concerns and new mothers experiencing postpartum depression. Lori is adept in assisting couples with marital issues and she has a wealth of experience treating adults with anxiety and depression.
Lori also helps people with anger management issues, bipolar disorder, borderline personality, conduct issues, domestic violence, gender identity, grief, LGBTQ+ issues, OCD, phobias, PTSD, and sexual disorders/addictions.
Lori Wolfe earned her master's degree from Ohio University in 1994. She has worked in private practice settings, as well as community mental health. Lori's treatment focus is couples, adults, and very young children. She specializes in helping families with parenting concerns and new mothers experiencing postpartum depression. Lori is adept in assisting couples with marital issues and she has a wealth of experience treating adults with anxiety and depression.
(234) 269-6200 View (234) 269-6200
Photo of James Elek, MSSA, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
James Elek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Solon, OH 44139
Areas of specialty also include ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, Self-harm, Suicidality, and others.
I am a strengths-based counselor who helps people figure out how they can feel better mentally and emotionally. I work with clients of varying ages and diagnoses. I do not treat diagnoses, I help people identify ways to be more equipped to handle life stressors, whatever they may be.
Areas of specialty also include ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, Self-harm, Suicidality, and others.
I am a strengths-based counselor who helps people figure out how they can feel better mentally and emotionally. I work with clients of varying ages and diagnoses. I do not treat diagnoses, I help people identify ways to be more equipped to handle life stressors, whatever they may be.
(440) 968-5084 View (440) 968-5084
Photo of Daria Diakonova-Curtis, PhD, Psychologist
Daria Diakonova-Curtis
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Solon, OH 44139  (Online Only)
I am a licensed psychologist with over 10 years of experience working with adults, specializing in the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, and life transitions. My training has focused on helping people untangle the complex web of their past experiences to understand how they affect current thoughts and emotions. I am deeply committed to helping people overcome emotional challenges, grief reactions, and life stress, in order to lead lives full of hopefulness and meaning. I also work with bilingual and multicultural individuals, addressing concerns of immigration, identity, and relationships.
I am a licensed psychologist with over 10 years of experience working with adults, specializing in the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, and life transitions. My training has focused on helping people untangle the complex web of their past experiences to understand how they affect current thoughts and emotions. I am deeply committed to helping people overcome emotional challenges, grief reactions, and life stress, in order to lead lives full of hopefulness and meaning. I also work with bilingual and multicultural individuals, addressing concerns of immigration, identity, and relationships.
(646) 257-2122 View (646) 257-2122
Photo of Erica Danielle Campbell, LSW, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erica Danielle Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MEd
Verified Verified
Warrensville Heights, OH 44128
My name is Erica Campbell the founder and CEO of New Vision Health and Wellness. I am is a Licensed Social Worker. I worked with children, adolescents and adults using a variety of approaches tailored to each individual client. I attended Cleveland State University and earned a bachelor’s degree in Social Work in 2017 and continued my education at John Carroll University and earned a masters degree in Clinical Counseling and School Counseling in 2021. My areas of expertise include; working with children and adults with anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar, and schizophrenia.
My name is Erica Campbell the founder and CEO of New Vision Health and Wellness. I am is a Licensed Social Worker. I worked with children, adolescents and adults using a variety of approaches tailored to each individual client. I attended Cleveland State University and earned a bachelor’s degree in Social Work in 2017 and continued my education at John Carroll University and earned a masters degree in Clinical Counseling and School Counseling in 2021. My areas of expertise include; working with children and adults with anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar, and schizophrenia.
(440) 640-0756 View (440) 640-0756
Photo of Desiree Paschal, LPCC
Desiree Paschal
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Independence, OH 44131
Desiree Paschal is a licensed professional clinical counselor, who has been practicing since 2012. She graduated from the University of Akron with a degree in clinical mental health counseling. Desiree believes in cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavior therapy approaches. The goals of these therapies is to make a positive change in life. Both therapies center on learning and practicing skills to utilize on the journey toward mental wellness. Desiree's areas of focus includes bipolar disorder, depression, and chronic illness. In her spare time, Desiree's hobbies are reading and playing strategic board games.
Desiree Paschal is a licensed professional clinical counselor, who has been practicing since 2012. She graduated from the University of Akron with a degree in clinical mental health counseling. Desiree believes in cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavior therapy approaches. The goals of these therapies is to make a positive change in life. Both therapies center on learning and practicing skills to utilize on the journey toward mental wellness. Desiree's areas of focus includes bipolar disorder, depression, and chronic illness. In her spare time, Desiree's hobbies are reading and playing strategic board games.
(216) 284-4487 View (216) 284-4487
Photo of Lindsay Feingold, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lindsay Feingold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beachwood, OH 44122
A therapeutic relationship based on safety and trust is essential in affecting change. I'm a Licensed Independent Social Worker with twenty five years of experience practicing psychotherapy with adolescents and adults. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, grief and loss, and help to address life challenges, transitions, feelings of isolation and fear about the future. Additionally, I work with parents to assist and guide in the ever-challenging work of raising a teenager.
A therapeutic relationship based on safety and trust is essential in affecting change. I'm a Licensed Independent Social Worker with twenty five years of experience practicing psychotherapy with adolescents and adults. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, grief and loss, and help to address life challenges, transitions, feelings of isolation and fear about the future. Additionally, I work with parents to assist and guide in the ever-challenging work of raising a teenager.
(917) 789-1419 View (917) 789-1419
Photo of Jennifer Seelie, MSN,  PMHNP
Jennifer Seelie
MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Independence, OH 44131
Jenny Seelie is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2022. She graduated from Walden University with a 4.0, Magna Cum Laude. Jenny helps clients through diagnosing, medication management, and psychotherapy. She specializes in bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, substance abuse, schizophrenia, and ADHD. Outside of work, Jenny enjoys fishing year-round, spending time with her kids, and anything outdoors.
Jenny Seelie is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2022. She graduated from Walden University with a 4.0, Magna Cum Laude. Jenny helps clients through diagnosing, medication management, and psychotherapy. She specializes in bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, substance abuse, schizophrenia, and ADHD. Outside of work, Jenny enjoys fishing year-round, spending time with her kids, and anything outdoors.
(216) 284-9584 View (216) 284-9584
Photo of Nicole Piatak, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicole Piatak
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Brecksville, OH 44141
Nicole Piatak is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor specializing in Solution Focused and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, with expertise in Attention Deficit Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, and family issues. She has supported numerous individuals in navigating life’s complexities, providing them with the tools for fulfillment and meaning. Nicole’s journey into mental health, fueled by a deep-seated desire to positively impact lives, was propelled by her personal journey through a challenging childhood experience, igniting a profound commitment to supporting others.
Nicole Piatak is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor specializing in Solution Focused and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, with expertise in Attention Deficit Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, and family issues. She has supported numerous individuals in navigating life’s complexities, providing them with the tools for fulfillment and meaning. Nicole’s journey into mental health, fueled by a deep-seated desire to positively impact lives, was propelled by her personal journey through a challenging childhood experience, igniting a profound commitment to supporting others.
(440) 745-7234 View (440) 745-7234
Photo of Jane Martinez, MSSA, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jane Martinez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Independence, OH 44131
I also have experience with: Substance Abuse, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Couples, and Personality Disorders.
I enjoy working with adults who have an interest in addressing mental health issues, including struggles with addictions. I also love to work with young people, ages 11 to 17. It is very rewarding to work toward a goal with a client and assist them in realizing their full potential. I have been fortunate to work with many types of individuals, such as those who want to deal with short-term or long-term problems. I am also bilingual in Spanish. Often people come to therapy because they want to solve an issue they have been struggling with for a long time, or sometimes it is something urgent that just suddenly arises.
I also have experience with: Substance Abuse, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Couples, and Personality Disorders.
I enjoy working with adults who have an interest in addressing mental health issues, including struggles with addictions. I also love to work with young people, ages 11 to 17. It is very rewarding to work toward a goal with a client and assist them in realizing their full potential. I have been fortunate to work with many types of individuals, such as those who want to deal with short-term or long-term problems. I am also bilingual in Spanish. Often people come to therapy because they want to solve an issue they have been struggling with for a long time, or sometimes it is something urgent that just suddenly arises.
(216) 868-7207 View (216) 868-7207

See more therapy options for Macedonia

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.