Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Ada, OK

Photo of Ashley A Simmons, LPC-S, LADC-CA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley A Simmons
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LADC-CA
Verified Verified
Ada, OK 74820
Hello! My name is Ashley Ann Simmons. I have been working in the mental health and substance use field since 2007. I am a M.S. LPC, LPC Supervisor , LADC under supervision, and CMIII. I work in Tishomingo, OK , Ada, OK areas. I am and OBH are currently accepting referrals in and around those areas. We work with children as young as 4 years old to older ageing adults who have mental health and or substance use/abuse issues. We also work with adults, couples and families to help improve relationships. I feel like counseling is very important for everyone. It is very important to be able to express your feelings in appropriate ways.
Hello! My name is Ashley Ann Simmons. I have been working in the mental health and substance use field since 2007. I am a M.S. LPC, LPC Supervisor , LADC under supervision, and CMIII. I work in Tishomingo, OK , Ada, OK areas. I am and OBH are currently accepting referrals in and around those areas. We work with children as young as 4 years old to older ageing adults who have mental health and or substance use/abuse issues. We also work with adults, couples and families to help improve relationships. I feel like counseling is very important for everyone. It is very important to be able to express your feelings in appropriate ways.
(580) 247-2158 View (580) 247-2158
Photo of Edward F Taylor, MCMHC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Edward F Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MCMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Ada, OK 74820  (Online Only)
I benefit from experiences ranging from military service to manufacturing. Beginning my counseling career late in life, I seek to invest in the lives of others. My approach to counseling is cognitively based, with hints of solution-focused and person-centered modalities. I offer a relaxed, atmosphere and possess the strength to listen to what the client communicates.
I benefit from experiences ranging from military service to manufacturing. Beginning my counseling career late in life, I seek to invest in the lives of others. My approach to counseling is cognitively based, with hints of solution-focused and person-centered modalities. I offer a relaxed, atmosphere and possess the strength to listen to what the client communicates.
(580) 300-0457 View (580) 300-0457
Photo of Dr. Paul Emrich, PhD, LPC-S, LMFT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Paul Emrich
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LPC-S, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ada, OK 74820
Relationships and life can feel overwhelming at times. When you're facing mental health challenges or relationship problems, I can help. I am dually licensed in Oklahoma as a Licensed Marital and Family Therapist (LMFT) and a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), and I provide a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental environment to help you feel comfortable. I have an office in Ada Oklahoma where I provide in-person therapy and currently have openings for new patients.
Relationships and life can feel overwhelming at times. When you're facing mental health challenges or relationship problems, I can help. I am dually licensed in Oklahoma as a Licensed Marital and Family Therapist (LMFT) and a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), and I provide a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental environment to help you feel comfortable. I have an office in Ada Oklahoma where I provide in-person therapy and currently have openings for new patients.
(580) 263-7485 View (580) 263-7485
Photo of Melissa Silagy - Silagy Family Counseling LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Silagy Family Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Ada, OK 74820
Silagy Family Counseling is a private mental health practice. Melissa Silagy is a Licensed Professional Counselor offering professional and specialized evaluative and treatment services to a wide variety of patients. She provides a myriad of services for individuals, couples, and families seeking help in any of the following areas: depression, anxiety, panic attacks, relationship difficulties, substance abuse, marital discord, parent - child conflict, family conflict, trauma, grief and loss. She is a nationally certified trauma therapist specializing in sexual abuse, substance abuse and post traumatic stress disorder.
Silagy Family Counseling is a private mental health practice. Melissa Silagy is a Licensed Professional Counselor offering professional and specialized evaluative and treatment services to a wide variety of patients. She provides a myriad of services for individuals, couples, and families seeking help in any of the following areas: depression, anxiety, panic attacks, relationship difficulties, substance abuse, marital discord, parent - child conflict, family conflict, trauma, grief and loss. She is a nationally certified trauma therapist specializing in sexual abuse, substance abuse and post traumatic stress disorder.
(405) 369-7730 View (405) 369-7730
Photo of Tiara Donn Kruta, MS, LPC-C, Pre-Licensed Professional
Tiara Donn Kruta
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LPC-C
Verified Verified
Ada, OK 74820
Are you an individual who has been having trouble but does not know what's going on? Do you have struggles with communicating how you feel and processing it? I want to be able to help individuals that need some support to be able to communicate and process their negative emotions. I understand that sometimes we need someone that is supportive and willing to listen. I am here to do both of those. I am able to help you identify your problems and bring light to it. If you're ready to take the first step and ask for help I am here to walk the journey with you.
Are you an individual who has been having trouble but does not know what's going on? Do you have struggles with communicating how you feel and processing it? I want to be able to help individuals that need some support to be able to communicate and process their negative emotions. I understand that sometimes we need someone that is supportive and willing to listen. I am here to do both of those. I am able to help you identify your problems and bring light to it. If you're ready to take the first step and ask for help I am here to walk the journey with you.
(405) 955-2514 View (405) 955-2514
Photo of Joe Eatherly, MS, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joe Eatherly
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Ada, OK 74820
Waitlist for new clients
Life's challenges can affect anyone. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I have the privilege of helping those affected by the stressors of life regain their lives and overcome the toll stress can take on us. I also help individuals and families with other mental health issues that they're facing such as trauma, depression, anxiety and coping skills. After being in the mental health field for over 15 years, I understand how easy it is to feel overwhelmed by day to day struggles and stressful life situations. My goal is to help each individual live a more positive, healthy life.
Life's challenges can affect anyone. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I have the privilege of helping those affected by the stressors of life regain their lives and overcome the toll stress can take on us. I also help individuals and families with other mental health issues that they're facing such as trauma, depression, anxiety and coping skills. After being in the mental health field for over 15 years, I understand how easy it is to feel overwhelmed by day to day struggles and stressful life situations. My goal is to help each individual live a more positive, healthy life.
(580) 246-4207 View (580) 246-4207

Online Therapists

Photo of Micqueal Ware - Harmonious Healing Counseling, LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Harmonious Healing Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73120
Please submit all requests by email and include your insurance provider. Harmonious Healing Counseling LLC offers individual, family, marriage, and group services in person and via telehealth for behavioral disorders, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD); depression, bipolar disorder, and other mood disorders; eating disorders; personality disorders; anxiety disorders, including panic disorder; obsessive-compulsive disorder; phobias; post-traumatic stress disorder; psychotic disorders, including schizophrenia, etc.
Please submit all requests by email and include your insurance provider. Harmonious Healing Counseling LLC offers individual, family, marriage, and group services in person and via telehealth for behavioral disorders, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD); depression, bipolar disorder, and other mood disorders; eating disorders; personality disorders; anxiety disorders, including panic disorder; obsessive-compulsive disorder; phobias; post-traumatic stress disorder; psychotic disorders, including schizophrenia, etc.
(405) 716-7415 View (405) 716-7415
Photo of Soo-Jung Choi, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Soo-Jung Choi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tulsa, OK 74133
I have experience working with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, grief, adoption and Asian-American cultural challenges.
Life does not always go according to plan. Sometimes we are faced with overwhelming challenges and it’s hard to see a clear path out. You don’t have to go through it alone. Your past does not have to define you. As you overcome your struggles, you will become stronger for the next obstacle that you may face. Whether you’re struggling in your current relationships, feeling stuck in your past, or worried about your future, I will meet you where you are. I will help you recognize and use your strengths to work on solutions and set goals to move forward with your life.
I have experience working with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, grief, adoption and Asian-American cultural challenges.
Life does not always go according to plan. Sometimes we are faced with overwhelming challenges and it’s hard to see a clear path out. You don’t have to go through it alone. Your past does not have to define you. As you overcome your struggles, you will become stronger for the next obstacle that you may face. Whether you’re struggling in your current relationships, feeling stuck in your past, or worried about your future, I will meet you where you are. I will help you recognize and use your strengths to work on solutions and set goals to move forward with your life.
(918) 842-3067 View (918) 842-3067
Photo of Cristopher Hicks, MSW,  LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cristopher Hicks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tulsa, OK 74133
As a therapist for more than 20 years, Cris has a passion to help people from a variety of social and cultural backgrounds work through challenges due to phase of life adjustments. He has a Master of Science in Social Work from the University of Texas at Austin and is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). In addition, he has completed decades of further post-graduate training and education. Cris has broad experience counseling adults facing depression, anxiety, phobias, grief and loss issues, trauma and bipolar disorder.
As a therapist for more than 20 years, Cris has a passion to help people from a variety of social and cultural backgrounds work through challenges due to phase of life adjustments. He has a Master of Science in Social Work from the University of Texas at Austin and is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). In addition, he has completed decades of further post-graduate training and education. Cris has broad experience counseling adults facing depression, anxiety, phobias, grief and loss issues, trauma and bipolar disorder.
(918) 601-4073 View (918) 601-4073
Photo of ML McBride, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
ML McBride
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tulsa, OK 74136
I bring many years of experience from a variety of mental healthcare settings including day treatment, psychiatric crisis, inpatient mental health, community agency, & private group practice. I work with adults ages 20-80 experiencing challenges with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, work-life balance, self-esteem, codependency, health issues, grief & loss, trauma and sleep difficulties. Having worked in life & death environments, including at all custody levels in a WA State DOC Men's facility, First Responders, I see you. I hear you. I get you. And I got you.
I bring many years of experience from a variety of mental healthcare settings including day treatment, psychiatric crisis, inpatient mental health, community agency, & private group practice. I work with adults ages 20-80 experiencing challenges with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, work-life balance, self-esteem, codependency, health issues, grief & loss, trauma and sleep difficulties. Having worked in life & death environments, including at all custody levels in a WA State DOC Men's facility, First Responders, I see you. I hear you. I get you. And I got you.
(918) 731-3189 View (918) 731-3189
Photo of Akemi Diwakar Malgonkar - Ako Counseling Services.,, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ako Counseling Services.,
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Warr Acres, OK 73132
I have worked with many counseling issues but mainly with anxiety, depression, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Oppositional Defiance, Asperger's Syndrome, grief, domestic violence, self harm, peer relationships, self harm, abuse etc to name a few.
I have provided counseling services to a broad spectrum of clients including children, adolescents, and Adults. I strive to help my clients solve their day to day stressors and achieve stability in their lives. My style is warm, flexible, and interactive. I usually use a variety of counseling modalities like cognitive behavioral therapy, person centered therapy, play and different forms of art based therapy, family systems therapy etc to suit the unique nature of the problem being worked on and the needs of specific clients.
I have worked with many counseling issues but mainly with anxiety, depression, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Oppositional Defiance, Asperger's Syndrome, grief, domestic violence, self harm, peer relationships, self harm, abuse etc to name a few.
I have provided counseling services to a broad spectrum of clients including children, adolescents, and Adults. I strive to help my clients solve their day to day stressors and achieve stability in their lives. My style is warm, flexible, and interactive. I usually use a variety of counseling modalities like cognitive behavioral therapy, person centered therapy, play and different forms of art based therapy, family systems therapy etc to suit the unique nature of the problem being worked on and the needs of specific clients.
(405) 708-5690 View (405) 708-5690
Photo of Stephanie Porterfield, PhD, HSP, Psychologist
Stephanie Porterfield
Psychologist, PhD, HSP
Verified Verified
Norman, OK 73069
Waitlist for new clients
I believe every person has a unique story and can benefit from support, caring and practical advice. In my practice, every client is provided a safe, compassionate and collaborative environment to work through challenges or adversities. My passion is to empower clients to promote change, healing and improvements in mood, health and relationships. I have extensive experience in working with college students, adolescents and adults with a wide range of presenting issues including eating disorders, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, grief and trauma.
I believe every person has a unique story and can benefit from support, caring and practical advice. In my practice, every client is provided a safe, compassionate and collaborative environment to work through challenges or adversities. My passion is to empower clients to promote change, healing and improvements in mood, health and relationships. I have extensive experience in working with college students, adolescents and adults with a wide range of presenting issues including eating disorders, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, grief and trauma.
(405) 246-9296 View (405) 246-9296
Photo of Blong Lor, MS,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Blong Lor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Tulsa, OK 74136
His extensive experience includes working with clients who face challenges such as PTSD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and depression.
Blong Lor, LPCS, is a culturally diverse and experienced mental health clinician serving individuals and families throughout Oklahoma. He is dedicated to providing personalized mental health counseling, understanding that every client has unique needs. By offering diagnosis and assessment services, Blong helps create effective treatment plans tailored to each person’s situation. Whether working with individuals, families, or both, he is committed to helping his clients improve their lives through evidencebased counseling methods.
His extensive experience includes working with clients who face challenges such as PTSD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and depression.
Blong Lor, LPCS, is a culturally diverse and experienced mental health clinician serving individuals and families throughout Oklahoma. He is dedicated to providing personalized mental health counseling, understanding that every client has unique needs. By offering diagnosis and assessment services, Blong helps create effective treatment plans tailored to each person’s situation. Whether working with individuals, families, or both, he is committed to helping his clients improve their lives through evidencebased counseling methods.
(855) 743-0911 View (855) 743-0911
Photo of Chase Counts, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chase Counts
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tulsa, OK 74105
Hi, My name is Chase Counts and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the Tulsa Oklahoma area. I work with individuals of all ages and families experiencing difficulties such as depression, anxiety, family conflict, relationship issues, bipolar, trauma, abuse, and others. I am available online, in-home, and in-office. No problem is too big to handle! I work to provide a comfortable non-judgmental environment where we can get to the root of the issue and figure out a way to resolve it and reach your goals.
Hi, My name is Chase Counts and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the Tulsa Oklahoma area. I work with individuals of all ages and families experiencing difficulties such as depression, anxiety, family conflict, relationship issues, bipolar, trauma, abuse, and others. I am available online, in-home, and in-office. No problem is too big to handle! I work to provide a comfortable non-judgmental environment where we can get to the root of the issue and figure out a way to resolve it and reach your goals.
(918) 201-1216 View (918) 201-1216
Photo of Melissa Rupprecht, MA,  LPC, Candida, CDSVRP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Melissa Rupprecht
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPC, Candida, CDSVRP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tulsa, OK 74136
I work with ADHD, depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Traumas, Victims/ Survivors of Domestic Violence & Sexual assault, Teen dating violence, stalking, dissociative identity disorder, bipolar disorders, eating disorders and more.
I became a therapist because I want to help people through their traumas and sufferings. I am dedicated to helping individuals overcome obstacles that are holding them back from their full potential and helping families strengthen their communication with each other and identify obstacles and relational patterns that weaken the familial bonds. I work with ADHD, depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Traumas, Victims/ Surviors of Domestic Violence & Sexual assault, Teen dating violence, stalking, borderline personality disorder, dissociative identity disorder, bipolar disorders and more. I work with people 12+.
I work with ADHD, depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Traumas, Victims/ Survivors of Domestic Violence & Sexual assault, Teen dating violence, stalking, dissociative identity disorder, bipolar disorders, eating disorders and more.
I became a therapist because I want to help people through their traumas and sufferings. I am dedicated to helping individuals overcome obstacles that are holding them back from their full potential and helping families strengthen their communication with each other and identify obstacles and relational patterns that weaken the familial bonds. I work with ADHD, depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Traumas, Victims/ Surviors of Domestic Violence & Sexual assault, Teen dating violence, stalking, borderline personality disorder, dissociative identity disorder, bipolar disorders and more. I work with people 12+.
(918) 238-8045 View (918) 238-8045
Photo of Alicia Jarman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alicia Jarman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73112
I specialize in Abuse & Trauma (Physical, Sexual, & Emotional), trauma due to violent crime, Bipolar, Depression, Grief & Loss, Mood & Anxiety Disorders, Marriage Conflict, Panic Disorders, Anger management, Parenting Challenges, Postpartum Depression, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Self-Esteem Issues, Sexual Dysfunction, and Stress Management.
Life can be a struggle at times. I have great respect for anyone who's willing to be vulnerable during the therapeutic process so they can meet their goals. I have devoted my life to helping people heal & bring balance back to their lives. I provide individual therapy by using a wide range of tools & techniques, I help people overcome obstacles within themselves & in their relationships. I've worked with clients to successfully address a wide variety of challenges related to interpersonal, home, family, & romantic relationships.
I specialize in Abuse & Trauma (Physical, Sexual, & Emotional), trauma due to violent crime, Bipolar, Depression, Grief & Loss, Mood & Anxiety Disorders, Marriage Conflict, Panic Disorders, Anger management, Parenting Challenges, Postpartum Depression, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Self-Esteem Issues, Sexual Dysfunction, and Stress Management.
Life can be a struggle at times. I have great respect for anyone who's willing to be vulnerable during the therapeutic process so they can meet their goals. I have devoted my life to helping people heal & bring balance back to their lives. I provide individual therapy by using a wide range of tools & techniques, I help people overcome obstacles within themselves & in their relationships. I've worked with clients to successfully address a wide variety of challenges related to interpersonal, home, family, & romantic relationships.
(405) 562-9581 View (405) 562-9581
Photo of Brittany Lovick, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brittany Lovick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73116
Throughout her career, she has gained insight and experience into how to help others struggling with loss and grief, chronic and terminal illness, aging concerns, trauma, low self-esteem, shame, guilt, family stressors, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and more.
Brittany Lovick is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Oklahoma who has been practicing since 2012. She has a B.A. in Human Development with an emphasis in counseling from California State University San Marcos and a Master of Social Work from San Diego State University. Brittany has worked in various settings, such as long-term care, hospice, along with inpatient and outpatient mental health care settings.
Throughout her career, she has gained insight and experience into how to help others struggling with loss and grief, chronic and terminal illness, aging concerns, trauma, low self-esteem, shame, guilt, family stressors, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and more.
Brittany Lovick is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Oklahoma who has been practicing since 2012. She has a B.A. in Human Development with an emphasis in counseling from California State University San Marcos and a Master of Social Work from San Diego State University. Brittany has worked in various settings, such as long-term care, hospice, along with inpatient and outpatient mental health care settings.
(405) 956-2516 View (405) 956-2516
Photo of Tujuana Muhammad, MHR, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tujuana Muhammad
Licensed Professional Counselor, MHR, LPC
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73102
Depression, anxiety, PTSD and bipolar are some of my specialities.
Life is challenging! Let me help you identify and process those challenges as a team. Learning to prioritize and organize provides room to develop healthy coping. Share with me your life goals so implementation can follow. Most of the time people need a professional to validate and provide structure in obtaining goals. Let me be that person for you!!!!
Depression, anxiety, PTSD and bipolar are some of my specialities.
Life is challenging! Let me help you identify and process those challenges as a team. Learning to prioritize and organize provides room to develop healthy coping. Share with me your life goals so implementation can follow. Most of the time people need a professional to validate and provide structure in obtaining goals. Let me be that person for you!!!!
(405) 400-0674 View (405) 400-0674
Photo of Dawn Gibson, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dawn Gibson
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Yukon, OK 73099
Additionally, I treat adults suffering from borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, and have extensive experience working with disabled children, adults and their families, including individuals and families living with Autism Spectrum Disorders.
My therapeutic approach is to provide insight, support and counseling to help clients effectively address behavioral challenges that significantly increase stress and inhibit quality of life. I combine traditional complementary methodologies that include Cognitive Behavioral, Adlerian, family systems and person-centered therapies with current neurological research to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each client’s unique needs.
Additionally, I treat adults suffering from borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, and have extensive experience working with disabled children, adults and their families, including individuals and families living with Autism Spectrum Disorders.
My therapeutic approach is to provide insight, support and counseling to help clients effectively address behavioral challenges that significantly increase stress and inhibit quality of life. I combine traditional complementary methodologies that include Cognitive Behavioral, Adlerian, family systems and person-centered therapies with current neurological research to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each client’s unique needs.
(405) 556-0478 View (405) 556-0478
Photo of Dr. Kristen Wheeler, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Kristen Wheeler
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Tulsa, OK 74136
Kristen Wheeler, PsyD obtained her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and substance abuse treatment from Adler University in Chicago as well as a Master’s degree in counseling and forensic psychology. She has more than 7 years of experience including 3 years with Cherokee Nation Health Services, within the Department of Corrections, and in inpatient rehabilitation centers. Dr. Wheeler sees adults 18 and older individually as well as in group therapy. She enjoys working with a wide range of behavioral health issues including bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, personality disorders, and addiction.
Kristen Wheeler, PsyD obtained her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and substance abuse treatment from Adler University in Chicago as well as a Master’s degree in counseling and forensic psychology. She has more than 7 years of experience including 3 years with Cherokee Nation Health Services, within the Department of Corrections, and in inpatient rehabilitation centers. Dr. Wheeler sees adults 18 and older individually as well as in group therapy. She enjoys working with a wide range of behavioral health issues including bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, personality disorders, and addiction.
(855) 743-0911 View (855) 743-0911

See more therapy options for Ada

Nearby Bipolar Disorder Therapists Searches for Ada

See More Bipolar Disorder Therapists
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.