Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Lake Oswego, OR
![Photo of Ammon Veil, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bac7ddd8-a350-4f48-bfec-6bdc5aba63c1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ammon Veil
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97035 (Online Only)
I help empower individuals for their unique needs such as anxiety, depression, bipolar, trauma, and relationship challenges.
I have immediate availability! Focusing on the individualized needs of each person, I strive to provide a safe environment where clients feel validated and able to express themselves freely. I value building an empathic, genuine, and positive relationship with my clients. This unique dynamic can assist clients to feel more fulfilled and successful in their mental health journey. I use a collaborative approach and a variety of techniques to help us find direction for the therapeutic process. If you are interested in the why to your life, then you've come to the right place. I thoroughly enjoy digging into what "makes us tick".
I help empower individuals for their unique needs such as anxiety, depression, bipolar, trauma, and relationship challenges.
I have immediate availability! Focusing on the individualized needs of each person, I strive to provide a safe environment where clients feel validated and able to express themselves freely. I value building an empathic, genuine, and positive relationship with my clients. This unique dynamic can assist clients to feel more fulfilled and successful in their mental health journey. I use a collaborative approach and a variety of techniques to help us find direction for the therapeutic process. If you are interested in the why to your life, then you've come to the right place. I thoroughly enjoy digging into what "makes us tick".
![Photo of Dr. Dianna Harris (Accepting New Clients), PsyD, PMHNP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/90c04d33-6204-4661-bdef-64a75f4cd318/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Dianna Harris (Accepting New Clients)
Psychologist, PsyD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
I have successfully helped people reduce anxiety and depression that has only partially been helped through therapy by adding psychiatric medication that is targeted to treat worry, panic, OCD, depression and bipolar symptoms.
Accepting NEW Clients (ages 18-65) as of 9/3/24 for Medication Management (I am not taking clients for therapy). Appointments are available in 2 weeks. Complete the Patient Inquiry Form on my website. You will receive a response the same or next day. My practice is primarily composed of adults struggling with anxiety and depression. I find that people reach out to treatment when excessive worry, low motivation, and negative thinking can lead to feeling less confident in their work, behind on tasks at home, and impacting their relationships. I don't treat ADHD and I don't prescribe controlled substances, such as Xanax for anxiety.
I have successfully helped people reduce anxiety and depression that has only partially been helped through therapy by adding psychiatric medication that is targeted to treat worry, panic, OCD, depression and bipolar symptoms.
Accepting NEW Clients (ages 18-65) as of 9/3/24 for Medication Management (I am not taking clients for therapy). Appointments are available in 2 weeks. Complete the Patient Inquiry Form on my website. You will receive a response the same or next day. My practice is primarily composed of adults struggling with anxiety and depression. I find that people reach out to treatment when excessive worry, low motivation, and negative thinking can lead to feeling less confident in their work, behind on tasks at home, and impacting their relationships. I don't treat ADHD and I don't prescribe controlled substances, such as Xanax for anxiety.
![Photo of Allison B Christianson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ffdc00fd-27e6-481a-b426-a73c4d6c8ffa/3/320x400.jpeg)
Allison B Christianson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97035 (Online Only)
Life is not a straight road, but a winding path. Around each corner may be a new challenge. As a therapist I am here to help you navigate your “path” and enrich your journey. My specializations lie in helping teens and adults experiencing anxiety and depression. Whether this is a result of stress, life transitions, grief, loss, divorce, career or education challenges, self-esteem, chronic conditions, or as a result of the aging process. I am licensed in Arizona, Colorado, Oregon and Wyoming.
Life is not a straight road, but a winding path. Around each corner may be a new challenge. As a therapist I am here to help you navigate your “path” and enrich your journey. My specializations lie in helping teens and adults experiencing anxiety and depression. Whether this is a result of stress, life transitions, grief, loss, divorce, career or education challenges, self-esteem, chronic conditions, or as a result of the aging process. I am licensed in Arizona, Colorado, Oregon and Wyoming.
![Photo of Angie Guion, LCSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ea3eda21-c1b5-4e1f-a13b-014daf1ef882/1/320x400.jpeg)
Angie Guion
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97035 (Online Only)
I have 30+ years of experience providing counseling in many different settings. LGBTQ+ friendly. I am interactive, recovery-focused, and use a cognitive behavioral therapy approach. I have clinical hypnosis training and can use hypnosis to address almost any area of life. I work with people diagnosed with mild to severe mental health concerns who may also have relationship, health, sexuality/gender, and addiction issues. I believe that people are resilient and sometimes need some assistance to get through challenges in their lives.
I have 30+ years of experience providing counseling in many different settings. LGBTQ+ friendly. I am interactive, recovery-focused, and use a cognitive behavioral therapy approach. I have clinical hypnosis training and can use hypnosis to address almost any area of life. I work with people diagnosed with mild to severe mental health concerns who may also have relationship, health, sexuality/gender, and addiction issues. I believe that people are resilient and sometimes need some assistance to get through challenges in their lives.
![Photo of Zach Edmund, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e2996c90-118d-4429-b773-9e1cf8c84996/2/320x400.png)
Zach Edmund
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97035 (Online Only)
Hi There! Thank you for considering me as your counselor. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Oregon and have more than eight years experience working in mental health. Facilitating growth and healing in others is my passion and drives my work as a counselor. I work from a multi-cultural, client-centered approach. My goal is to provide a safe, comfortable space for clients to collaboratively explore themselves. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and a solution focused approach. I am passionate about working with the LGBTQ+ and other underserved communities.
Hi There! Thank you for considering me as your counselor. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Oregon and have more than eight years experience working in mental health. Facilitating growth and healing in others is my passion and drives my work as a counselor. I work from a multi-cultural, client-centered approach. My goal is to provide a safe, comfortable space for clients to collaboratively explore themselves. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and a solution focused approach. I am passionate about working with the LGBTQ+ and other underserved communities.
![Photo of Cary Lazara Coll, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/420b5f63-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Empowerment comes from being open to exploring your inner strength as a means of gaining insight and knowledge. I strive to provide a safe, nonjudgmental, compassionate space for self-discovery. Through the Empowerment Model I use an eclectic, client centered, and strength based approach to finding healing and growth in the midst of challenges. By exploring the origin of symptoms and how they influence thoughts and behaviors we can overcome obstacles to feeling genuine health and wellness.
Empowerment comes from being open to exploring your inner strength as a means of gaining insight and knowledge. I strive to provide a safe, nonjudgmental, compassionate space for self-discovery. Through the Empowerment Model I use an eclectic, client centered, and strength based approach to finding healing and growth in the midst of challenges. By exploring the origin of symptoms and how they influence thoughts and behaviors we can overcome obstacles to feeling genuine health and wellness.
![Photo of Deborah Galligani, LCSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c043f4c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you feeling depressed, anxious, overwhelmed or uncertain? Are you feeling unhappy in your relationships? Are you feeling stressed? No longer have clear vision of what you desire? Feeling unable to cope? Are you feeling there is a lack of focus in your life? Do you feel that your career or relationships are stagnant or disintegrating? Are you feeling uncertain about your future?
I offer a full range of psychotherapy services to meet your unique needs. Finding the right therapist is an important part of reaching out for help.
Are you feeling depressed, anxious, overwhelmed or uncertain? Are you feeling unhappy in your relationships? Are you feeling stressed? No longer have clear vision of what you desire? Feeling unable to cope? Are you feeling there is a lack of focus in your life? Do you feel that your career or relationships are stagnant or disintegrating? Are you feeling uncertain about your future?
I offer a full range of psychotherapy services to meet your unique needs. Finding the right therapist is an important part of reaching out for help.
![Photo of Kellie Collins, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4e988aea-52a7-43fd-8ef4-e45e06118903/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kellie Collins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
As a mental health therapist, and clinic director at Senua Counseling Clinic, I work from a client centered, integrative approach. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), client centered treatment, and solution focused therapy. I also believe that we need to work together, as a team, to help you achieve your goals. The body and mind are greatly connected and intertwined, which is why I believe in a holistic approach to mental health care. I am happy and honored to provide you with a non-judgmental, safe space for you to tell your story, set your goals, and become the person you were meant to be.
As a mental health therapist, and clinic director at Senua Counseling Clinic, I work from a client centered, integrative approach. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), client centered treatment, and solution focused therapy. I also believe that we need to work together, as a team, to help you achieve your goals. The body and mind are greatly connected and intertwined, which is why I believe in a holistic approach to mental health care. I am happy and honored to provide you with a non-judgmental, safe space for you to tell your story, set your goals, and become the person you were meant to be.
![Photo of Meegan F Harp - Still Waters Counseling Services, LLC, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a9852e35-b3cc-4ee7-b740-150d0b97c6b9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Still Waters Counseling Services, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of Oregon providing mental health services in Oregon since 2010. I provide in-person and virtual trauma-informed therapy, respecting diversity and multiculturalism. My philosophy and approach towards treatment is person-centered, with the belief that each person has all the answers, and the ability to solve their problems within themselves. I see my role as an assistant in reaching the best solution for each person’s unique situation. I specialize in working with couples, families, individuals, digital nomads, entrepreneurs, and those who work from home.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of Oregon providing mental health services in Oregon since 2010. I provide in-person and virtual trauma-informed therapy, respecting diversity and multiculturalism. My philosophy and approach towards treatment is person-centered, with the belief that each person has all the answers, and the ability to solve their problems within themselves. I see my role as an assistant in reaching the best solution for each person’s unique situation. I specialize in working with couples, families, individuals, digital nomads, entrepreneurs, and those who work from home.
![Photo of Janice Marie Johnson, LPC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c0d9a9e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Janice Marie Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
Everybody at some point can benefit from therapy! Whether its just needing to talk over some relational issues or something more serious like depression, anxiety, sexual abuse or other traumas, therapy can make the difference. When people feel stuck in thought patterns or can't seem to get any peace or find joy in life, it is very discouraging. I find that my clients come in and want some tools to get out of their rut and find relief from their difficult life issues.
Everybody at some point can benefit from therapy! Whether its just needing to talk over some relational issues or something more serious like depression, anxiety, sexual abuse or other traumas, therapy can make the difference. When people feel stuck in thought patterns or can't seem to get any peace or find joy in life, it is very discouraging. I find that my clients come in and want some tools to get out of their rut and find relief from their difficult life issues.
![Photo of Maddie Creagan, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f8501a3-a421-4c77-b891-c82fbe7ef0c9/3/320x400.jpeg)
Maddie Creagan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97035 (Online Only)
Is it becoming more difficult to cope with life’s challenges? Have you noticed that you are feeling more anxious, depressed, unmotivated, or just simply overwhelmed? I can help with that. I know it can be incredibly difficult to manage these challenges alone, especially during these unprecedented times. Asking for help can be scary but you have already begun your journey towards healing and positive change by looking for a therapist that you feel comfortable with. Therapy is a journey, but I will be by your side supporting you as you take this rewarding step in your life.
Is it becoming more difficult to cope with life’s challenges? Have you noticed that you are feeling more anxious, depressed, unmotivated, or just simply overwhelmed? I can help with that. I know it can be incredibly difficult to manage these challenges alone, especially during these unprecedented times. Asking for help can be scary but you have already begun your journey towards healing and positive change by looking for a therapist that you feel comfortable with. Therapy is a journey, but I will be by your side supporting you as you take this rewarding step in your life.
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Do you feel that you and your family have been struggling lately? are you, or your family members struggling with anything that you are not certain how to deal with? No matter how much you have tried things seem to be the same or seem to be getting worse for you and your family? Do you feel accepted and understood?
Do you feel that you and your family have been struggling lately? are you, or your family members struggling with anything that you are not certain how to deal with? No matter how much you have tried things seem to be the same or seem to be getting worse for you and your family? Do you feel accepted and understood?
![Photo of David E Blakeslee - David E. Blakeslee, Psy.D., PC, MA, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c09997d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
David E. Blakeslee, Psy.D., PC
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97034
Waitlist for new clients
Taking the first step to get help is often the most difficult, but it is often a hopeful sign that you are ready for growth and ready for change. Finding a compassionate, experienced psychologist at such a time will have the powerful benefit of moving you in a focused way on your needed areas of growth and discovering new areas of strength. Dr. Blakeslee has helped hundreds of individuals, scores of couples and dozens of families in his 20+ years of practice. The science of psychology has made treatment for depression, anxiety, trauma and dysfunctional relationships more successful.
Taking the first step to get help is often the most difficult, but it is often a hopeful sign that you are ready for growth and ready for change. Finding a compassionate, experienced psychologist at such a time will have the powerful benefit of moving you in a focused way on your needed areas of growth and discovering new areas of strength. Dr. Blakeslee has helped hundreds of individuals, scores of couples and dozens of families in his 20+ years of practice. The science of psychology has made treatment for depression, anxiety, trauma and dysfunctional relationships more successful.
![Photo of Stephanie N Knight, MA, LPC, CADC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3beebec7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/8/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie N Knight
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97034
Life, without any major disruptions, is stressful enough; however almost everyone experiences times that are especially difficult. Oftentimes, people find themselves getting lost, anxious, or frustrated during these times, and can develop problematic ways of coping because they don't know what else to do. This is understandable. When a person is in emotional pain, it is hard to be rational and think of a good solution. I'd like to help.
Through therapy, you can get caring support and new solutions to problems that will help you build the fulfilling life you deserve- where a sense of peace is possible.
Life, without any major disruptions, is stressful enough; however almost everyone experiences times that are especially difficult. Oftentimes, people find themselves getting lost, anxious, or frustrated during these times, and can develop problematic ways of coping because they don't know what else to do. This is understandable. When a person is in emotional pain, it is hard to be rational and think of a good solution. I'd like to help.
Through therapy, you can get caring support and new solutions to problems that will help you build the fulfilling life you deserve- where a sense of peace is possible.
![Photo of Dr. Nicole La Verne, PsyD, LPC, MAC, CADCIII, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ea9b87b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Nicole La Verne
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC, MAC, CADCIII, ACS
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
Is life becoming challenging, overwhelming, confusing, unfair, and more? I understand! I have over 30 years of experience supporting people struggling with a variety of issues - depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma & PTSD, grief & loss, life changes, abuse, and more. I personally and professionally understand the dynamics that accompany many of these life challenges.
Is life becoming challenging, overwhelming, confusing, unfair, and more? I understand! I have over 30 years of experience supporting people struggling with a variety of issues - depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma & PTSD, grief & loss, life changes, abuse, and more. I personally and professionally understand the dynamics that accompany many of these life challenges.
![Photo of Martha Darkins, RN, LPC, CSAT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c8c0f63-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Martha Darkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, RN, LPC, CSAT
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97034 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with compulsive sexual thoughts or behaviors that interfere with work or relationships? Do you have a secret life? Are you married to or partnered with someone who lies, cheats or betrays you? Are you re-experiencing the pain of a trauma or abuse history? I can help you gain relief from sadness, loss and grief. End the cycle of one-night stands, hook-ups and failed relationships. You can redefine your goals for healthy sexuality and find a way back to your true values, making your life worth living. Seek help. Therapy works if you are willing to work on your recovery.
Are you struggling with compulsive sexual thoughts or behaviors that interfere with work or relationships? Do you have a secret life? Are you married to or partnered with someone who lies, cheats or betrays you? Are you re-experiencing the pain of a trauma or abuse history? I can help you gain relief from sadness, loss and grief. End the cycle of one-night stands, hook-ups and failed relationships. You can redefine your goals for healthy sexuality and find a way back to your true values, making your life worth living. Seek help. Therapy works if you are willing to work on your recovery.
![Photo of Eric Bruemmer, MS, LPC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4dc96daf-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Eric Bruemmer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
Having worked with Virtual Therapy (phone and video) since 2004 and Virtual EMDR since 2017, I can serve you now. Fitting my training and style, EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) is a comprehensive and gently compassionate approach to adversity and trauma including anxiety, depression, couple and family issues. I work with diverse adults across the life spectrum. Licensed in both Oregon and Illinois, I am committed to life change and am on a personal adventure as well. Any questions, please ask? There are answers and I have help.
Having worked with Virtual Therapy (phone and video) since 2004 and Virtual EMDR since 2017, I can serve you now. Fitting my training and style, EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) is a comprehensive and gently compassionate approach to adversity and trauma including anxiety, depression, couple and family issues. I work with diverse adults across the life spectrum. Licensed in both Oregon and Illinois, I am committed to life change and am on a personal adventure as well. Any questions, please ask? There are answers and I have help.
![Photo of Allyson Klein, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee331fed-16a6-4518-96c0-6fecfb8e544b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Allyson Klein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97035 (Online Only)
I have been a mental health professional for 25 years, and I have had the privilege to work with adults from a wide variety of backgrounds. My passion is to build a strong trusting relationship with my clients and to help them clarify both their challenges and strengths so that they can find their path to healing. My clients often come into therapy feeling lost or confused, and they are able to learn that with a bit of hard work and perseverance, they can start making progress one step at a time.
I have been a mental health professional for 25 years, and I have had the privilege to work with adults from a wide variety of backgrounds. My passion is to build a strong trusting relationship with my clients and to help them clarify both their challenges and strengths so that they can find their path to healing. My clients often come into therapy feeling lost or confused, and they are able to learn that with a bit of hard work and perseverance, they can start making progress one step at a time.
![Photo of Vibhuti -Vee Pandey, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/17af707d-77fa-4f5e-b7c7-0940203ae476/1/320x400.jpeg)
Vibhuti -Vee Pandey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
Hello and Welcome! I am grateful to be doing work I love and find it immensely rewarding to be your ally in creating profound and lasting positive changes in your life. My therapeutic role is as a thought partner in helping clients strengthen one's inherent resilience. Several clients have stated they've had "more progress from one session than months of previous therapy." I have worked with clients of all ages from numerous intersecting racial, cultural, and religious backgrounds also, a wide range of sexual and gender orientations and various abilities/disabilities. Acknowledge systems of oppression, LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC affirming.
Hello and Welcome! I am grateful to be doing work I love and find it immensely rewarding to be your ally in creating profound and lasting positive changes in your life. My therapeutic role is as a thought partner in helping clients strengthen one's inherent resilience. Several clients have stated they've had "more progress from one session than months of previous therapy." I have worked with clients of all ages from numerous intersecting racial, cultural, and religious backgrounds also, a wide range of sexual and gender orientations and various abilities/disabilities. Acknowledge systems of oppression, LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC affirming.
![Photo of Vickey Giap Thistlethwaite, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ccbc0275-b17e-4c98-9527-635b36eeff50/1/320x400.jpeg)
Vickey Giap Thistlethwaite
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97034
Being part of the interconnected natural world, we thrive in connection, and without connection, we wither. In our work together we will collaborate in understanding what makes you come alive and wither, to look for ways to get unstuck and make meaning of your emotions, reactivity, and suffering. I believe that individuals and families can tap into their inner strength to repair and grow new resilience with guidance and support. My role is to restore balance, build communication, and provide support to help you create space to learn and integrate new skills and encourage new perspectives as you grow and thrive in connections.
Being part of the interconnected natural world, we thrive in connection, and without connection, we wither. In our work together we will collaborate in understanding what makes you come alive and wither, to look for ways to get unstuck and make meaning of your emotions, reactivity, and suffering. I believe that individuals and families can tap into their inner strength to repair and grow new resilience with guidance and support. My role is to restore balance, build communication, and provide support to help you create space to learn and integrate new skills and encourage new perspectives as you grow and thrive in connections.
See more therapy options for Lake Oswego
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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.