Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Streetsboro, OH

Photo of Ardelle M. Moore, LISW-S, LICDC-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ardelle M. Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, LICDC-C
Verified Verified
Streetsboro, OH 44241  (Online Only)
It is my esteemed honor to walk alongside you as you embark upon your therapeutic process. As your partner throughout this process, I am committed to being an empathetic and active listener while equipping you with the tools necessary to respond appropriately to your triggers. My role as a Psychotherapist is to merely assist you in identifying areas of growth while developing strategies to help you in meeting your individual treatment goals. My clinical beliefs are that we must treat the entire person, mind, body and spirit, in order to witness longstanding change. Congratulations for taking the first step in your healing journey.
It is my esteemed honor to walk alongside you as you embark upon your therapeutic process. As your partner throughout this process, I am committed to being an empathetic and active listener while equipping you with the tools necessary to respond appropriately to your triggers. My role as a Psychotherapist is to merely assist you in identifying areas of growth while developing strategies to help you in meeting your individual treatment goals. My clinical beliefs are that we must treat the entire person, mind, body and spirit, in order to witness longstanding change. Congratulations for taking the first step in your healing journey.
(330) 366-1653 View (330) 366-1653
Photo of Olivia Manna - Simply Amazing Family Environment, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Simply Amazing Family Environment
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Streetsboro, OH 44241
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, who specializes in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have over 3 years of experience working in behavioral health, providing individual therapy to teens and adults, families, & couples, group therapy, crisis stabilization, and residential mental health. I have a passion for working with depression, anxiety, trauma, and eating disorders. I take a person-centered approach to create a welcoming environment. I believe that having a strong therapeutic relationship is the key to effective counseling. I incorporate evidenced based modalities when providing family, couples, & individual therapy.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, who specializes in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have over 3 years of experience working in behavioral health, providing individual therapy to teens and adults, families, & couples, group therapy, crisis stabilization, and residential mental health. I have a passion for working with depression, anxiety, trauma, and eating disorders. I take a person-centered approach to create a welcoming environment. I believe that having a strong therapeutic relationship is the key to effective counseling. I incorporate evidenced based modalities when providing family, couples, & individual therapy.
(330) 295-3496 View (330) 295-3496
Photo of Dr. Sherdene A Simpson, PhD, MFT, LPCC-S, LMHC, CHT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Sherdene A Simpson
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT, LPCC-S, LMHC, CHT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Streetsboro, OH 44241  (Online Only)
DO YOU DESIRE CHANGE? Are you tired of being stuck? You can have a better quality of life. Do you have relationship problems (dating, married, family, getting along with others)? You have been "STUCK AND FRUSTRATED" too long...Call me. Are you seriously dating and considering marriage? Completing a premarital program is a MUST - "Before you plan your wedding, Plan your marriage!" Do you struggle with depression, anxiety and life issues..Let's start your journey....YOU CAN HAVE A BETTER QUALITY OF LIFE!
DO YOU DESIRE CHANGE? Are you tired of being stuck? You can have a better quality of life. Do you have relationship problems (dating, married, family, getting along with others)? You have been "STUCK AND FRUSTRATED" too long...Call me. Are you seriously dating and considering marriage? Completing a premarital program is a MUST - "Before you plan your wedding, Plan your marriage!" Do you struggle with depression, anxiety and life issues..Let's start your journey....YOU CAN HAVE A BETTER QUALITY OF LIFE!
(440) 607-4720 View (440) 607-4720
Photo of Kelly Lucas, MFT, CCTP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kelly Lucas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, CCTP
Verified Verified
Streetsboro, OH 44241
When I first started my Masters Degree Program I found the following and remind myself and my clients of this... "I am here to listen, Not to work miracles, To help you discover what you feel, Not to make the feelings go away, To discuss steps with you, Not to rescue you and leave you still vulnerable, To help you learn to choose, Not to make it unnecessary for you to make difficult choices, To provide support for change." I am here to walk with you and provide guidance, empathy and encouragement along your journey.
When I first started my Masters Degree Program I found the following and remind myself and my clients of this... "I am here to listen, Not to work miracles, To help you discover what you feel, Not to make the feelings go away, To discuss steps with you, Not to rescue you and leave you still vulnerable, To help you learn to choose, Not to make it unnecessary for you to make difficult choices, To provide support for change." I am here to walk with you and provide guidance, empathy and encouragement along your journey.
(330) 863-8136 View (330) 863-8136
Photo of Sereena Creamer, MEd, LPCC-S, Counselor
Sereena Creamer
Counselor, MEd, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Streetsboro, OH 44241
I have a passion in assisting individuals, family's, and couples in making a positive change within their lives and processing their feelings, thoughts, traumas, and concerns. I am a therapist who understands building rapport and having a strong therapeutic relationship is essential in counseling. I have experience working with couples, families, and individuals address all majors issues which are causing emotional distress, daily sadness, confrontations/arguments, and the desire to quit. I am goal oriented and work hard to ensure positive results for the client to find hope, happiness, relief, and peace.
I have a passion in assisting individuals, family's, and couples in making a positive change within their lives and processing their feelings, thoughts, traumas, and concerns. I am a therapist who understands building rapport and having a strong therapeutic relationship is essential in counseling. I have experience working with couples, families, and individuals address all majors issues which are causing emotional distress, daily sadness, confrontations/arguments, and the desire to quit. I am goal oriented and work hard to ensure positive results for the client to find hope, happiness, relief, and peace.
(234) 231-8410 View (234) 231-8410

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Johnna Donnelly, Licensed Professional Counselor
Johnna Donnelly
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Kent, OH 44240  (Online Only)
Johnna has expertise in treating anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADHD, PTSD. Counseling addresses depression, anxiety, people pleasing, grief, trauma, weight loss, and relational problems. I believe in providing a safe and nonjudgmental space. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, a life transition such as a job change, a move, an end of a relationship, or simply life stress, I am here to support you, so you don't have to take on this stress alone.
Johnna has expertise in treating anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADHD, PTSD. Counseling addresses depression, anxiety, people pleasing, grief, trauma, weight loss, and relational problems. I believe in providing a safe and nonjudgmental space. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, a life transition such as a job change, a move, an end of a relationship, or simply life stress, I am here to support you, so you don't have to take on this stress alone.
(419) 556-6160 View (419) 556-6160
Photo of Lorri Charnas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lorri Charnas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Kent, OH 44240  (Online Only)
I am licensed in Ohio with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, coping with grief and loss, bipolar disorder and general life issues. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy takes courage! My personal motto is "life begins at the end of your comfort zone!" I believe everyone benefits from therapy at some point in their lives.
I am licensed in Ohio with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, coping with grief and loss, bipolar disorder and general life issues. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy takes courage! My personal motto is "life begins at the end of your comfort zone!" I believe everyone benefits from therapy at some point in their lives.
(234) 239-9286 View (234) 239-9286
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 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 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 Stephanie Burbridge
Stephanie Burbridge
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
Verified Verified
Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44224  (Online Only)
Taking the first step to start counseling is difficult, but I believe engaging in therapy can be a rewarding and positive experience that can change your life. My goal is to help you learn tools and skills you can use to manage stress and reduce symptoms that interfere with your daily life. I specialize in treating anxiety and depression; however, I also have experience in helping clients with bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, substance abuse, and relationship concerns. I rely on evidence-based practices in my approach to counseling, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, person-centered therapy, motivational interviewing
Taking the first step to start counseling is difficult, but I believe engaging in therapy can be a rewarding and positive experience that can change your life. My goal is to help you learn tools and skills you can use to manage stress and reduce symptoms that interfere with your daily life. I specialize in treating anxiety and depression; however, I also have experience in helping clients with bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, substance abuse, and relationship concerns. I rely on evidence-based practices in my approach to counseling, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, person-centered therapy, motivational interviewing
(330) 919-6270 View (330) 919-6270
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 Jennifer Kirkpatrick, Counselor
Jennifer Kirkpatrick
Counselor
Verified Verified
Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44224  (Online Only)
Sondermind logo Jennifer Kirkpatrick profile image Jennifer Kirkpatrick Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor location icon Video Practicing in Ohio shield icon Insurance Aetna, Anthem, CareSource, Centivo, ... See all below Request a Session Specialties Adolescent & teen mental/behavioral health Anxiety Depression OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder) SonderMind Video Telehealth Stress Trauma Anger Management ADHD (Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder) Autism spectrum support Bipolar Disorder Borderline Personality Disorder Children's mental/behavioral health Family relationships Grief / Bereavement Narcissistic Person
Sondermind logo Jennifer Kirkpatrick profile image Jennifer Kirkpatrick Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor location icon Video Practicing in Ohio shield icon Insurance Aetna, Anthem, CareSource, Centivo, ... See all below Request a Session Specialties Adolescent & teen mental/behavioral health Anxiety Depression OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder) SonderMind Video Telehealth Stress Trauma Anger Management ADHD (Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder) Autism spectrum support Bipolar Disorder Borderline Personality Disorder Children's mental/behavioral health Family relationships Grief / Bereavement Narcissistic Person
(330) 919-7494 View (330) 919-7494
Photo of 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 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 Melanie Ebel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melanie Ebel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Kent, OH 44240  (Online Only)
Melanie has been working in the mental health field for over 20 years. She has a passion for building therapeutic relationships that help individuals reach their highest potential and best self. Utilizing a blended intervention style, Melanie weaves together modalities she is trained and experienced in to provide the best, personalized, unique approach for each person she works with. She is extensively trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and certified in Cognitive Enhancement Therapy.
Melanie has been working in the mental health field for over 20 years. She has a passion for building therapeutic relationships that help individuals reach their highest potential and best self. Utilizing a blended intervention style, Melanie weaves together modalities she is trained and experienced in to provide the best, personalized, unique approach for each person she works with. She is extensively trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and certified in Cognitive Enhancement Therapy.
(419) 912-6140 View (419) 912-6140
Photo of Mindfully Strongsville - Mindfully - Strongsville, OH, LPC, LPCC, LISW
Mindfully - Strongsville, OH
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPC, LPCC, LISW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Aurora, OH 44202
Mindfully Northeast Ohio, formerly known as Nancy Lowrie and Associates, is dedicated to helping our clients heal, grow, and thrive. We focus on matching clients with providers who specialize in the challenges they are facing. By providing the best fit from the start, we help our clients meet their goals with greater success and our providers find deeper fulfillment in their work.
Mindfully Northeast Ohio, formerly known as Nancy Lowrie and Associates, is dedicated to helping our clients heal, grow, and thrive. We focus on matching clients with providers who specialize in the challenges they are facing. By providing the best fit from the start, we help our clients meet their goals with greater success and our providers find deeper fulfillment in their work.
(440) 577-5512 View (440) 577-5512
Photo of Melissa Odell, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa Odell
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Kent, OH 44240  (Online Only)
I am an independently licensed mental health counselor and have worked in the field for five years. I have over 20 years of experience working in corrections with adult male offenders and juvenile offenders. I specialize in adolescent behavioral issues and have training in anxiety disorders in teens. I have experience working with couples, children, adolescents and individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, behavioral issues and life stressors.
I am an independently licensed mental health counselor and have worked in the field for five years. I have over 20 years of experience working in corrections with adult male offenders and juvenile offenders. I specialize in adolescent behavioral issues and have training in anxiety disorders in teens. I have experience working with couples, children, adolescents and individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, behavioral issues and life stressors.
(216) 412-7554 View (216) 412-7554
Photo of Mary Anne Ricci, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Mary Anne Ricci
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Twinsburg, OH 44087
My approach as a therapist is to join you in successfully reaching the goals of repairing/resolving conflict, lessening distress and pain, solving problems, and creating well being. We all search for ways to improve our lives and find satisfaction and fulfillment. I work to build a caring, safe, honest and respectful counseling relationship in order for you to repair, heal and achieve your goals.
My approach as a therapist is to join you in successfully reaching the goals of repairing/resolving conflict, lessening distress and pain, solving problems, and creating well being. We all search for ways to improve our lives and find satisfaction and fulfillment. I work to build a caring, safe, honest and respectful counseling relationship in order for you to repair, heal and achieve your goals.
(440) 305-5658 View (440) 305-5658
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

See more therapy options for Streetsboro

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.