Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Oregon

Photo of Lysette Herrera, MA,  LPC,  LMHC, Counselor
Lysette Herrera
Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Tualatin, OR 97062
Lysette uses an integrative approach in therapy incorporating cognitivebehavioral techniques, psychodynamic theory, and family systems catered to each individual client. Lysette is strength based and wants to help clients reach their full potential through the healing process of therapy. Main areas of focus are depression, anxiety, trauma, and bipolar disorder. In her spare time, Lysette enjoys going to museums, traveling, spending time with family, and listening to music. She also is currently working on her PhD in International Psychology.
Lysette uses an integrative approach in therapy incorporating cognitivebehavioral techniques, psychodynamic theory, and family systems catered to each individual client. Lysette is strength based and wants to help clients reach their full potential through the healing process of therapy. Main areas of focus are depression, anxiety, trauma, and bipolar disorder. In her spare time, Lysette enjoys going to museums, traveling, spending time with family, and listening to music. She also is currently working on her PhD in International Psychology.
(833) 996-1403 View (833) 996-1403
Photo of Ammon Veil, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ammon Veil
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tigard, OR 97223  (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".
(971) 999-3317 View (971) 999-3317
Photo of Pamela Self, LCSW, CADCI, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pamela Self
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADCI
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
Waitlist for new clients
I work with a variety of unique and extraordinary adults experiencing mental health challenges, including: Trauma/PTSD, Psychosis/Schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder, sexual abuse, first responders, aging, anxiety, anger management, attachment issues, behavioral issues, cognitive challenges, depression, domestic abuse, suicidal ideation, and self-harm.
In my experience as a mental health therapist, I have had the honor and privilege to be a part of a person’s life who is struggling with mental health. At a young age, I always had an interest and curiosity in the people I encountered in my life, and this continues to hold true to this day. I am continually amazed and inspired by the courage and resiliency of people. We are all in this beautiful life together and sometimes we just need additional support to help us navigate our complicated world. I am a “think outside the box” kind of therapist and will build treatment plans based upon your needs and what works for you.
I work with a variety of unique and extraordinary adults experiencing mental health challenges, including: Trauma/PTSD, Psychosis/Schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder, sexual abuse, first responders, aging, anxiety, anger management, attachment issues, behavioral issues, cognitive challenges, depression, domestic abuse, suicidal ideation, and self-harm.
In my experience as a mental health therapist, I have had the honor and privilege to be a part of a person’s life who is struggling with mental health. At a young age, I always had an interest and curiosity in the people I encountered in my life, and this continues to hold true to this day. I am continually amazed and inspired by the courage and resiliency of people. We are all in this beautiful life together and sometimes we just need additional support to help us navigate our complicated world. I am a “think outside the box” kind of therapist and will build treatment plans based upon your needs and what works for you.
(503) 852-2820 View (503) 852-2820
Photo of Erica L Freeman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erica L Freeman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Eugene, OR 97401
I most enjoy working with you, someone motivated to improve. I’ll help you cope effectively with depression, anxiety, bipolar, and trauma disorders and I have for 20 years. You’re individual, couple, family, or groups. Adolescents and adults are preferred. I will help you with stress, horrifying traumas, deaths, diagnoses. Struggling with perinatal mood difficulties, eating disorders? I can help. I’ll teach you skills that enable and empower you to feel happy, stable, and independent again. I’m published on Amazon as Erica L Hernandez. My book is apocalyptic: Evasion, which addresses how to cope with grief.
I most enjoy working with you, someone motivated to improve. I’ll help you cope effectively with depression, anxiety, bipolar, and trauma disorders and I have for 20 years. You’re individual, couple, family, or groups. Adolescents and adults are preferred. I will help you with stress, horrifying traumas, deaths, diagnoses. Struggling with perinatal mood difficulties, eating disorders? I can help. I’ll teach you skills that enable and empower you to feel happy, stable, and independent again. I’m published on Amazon as Erica L Hernandez. My book is apocalyptic: Evasion, which addresses how to cope with grief.
(541) 345-7010 View (541) 345-7010
Photo of Molz Wirtz-Wold, MS, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Molz Wirtz-Wold
Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97203
I also specialize in supporting folks with bipolar find and maintain balance and stability.
Accepting for my wait list as of 9/5/24. A therapist for 19 years, I am a good fit for people looking for a non-judgmental, open, directive and creative clinician. I support individual adults and couples/relationships from an attachment and relational approach. I am very experienced in supporting transgender, queer, polyamorous and/or sex positive clients. People looking for a safe space to be their authentic selves are welcomed. I am queer, transgender, autistic and have lived experience as a fat bodied person.
I also specialize in supporting folks with bipolar find and maintain balance and stability.
Accepting for my wait list as of 9/5/24. A therapist for 19 years, I am a good fit for people looking for a non-judgmental, open, directive and creative clinician. I support individual adults and couples/relationships from an attachment and relational approach. I am very experienced in supporting transgender, queer, polyamorous and/or sex positive clients. People looking for a safe space to be their authentic selves are welcomed. I am queer, transgender, autistic and have lived experience as a fat bodied person.
(503) 379-9742 View (503) 379-9742
Photo of Joy Wilson - Joy Wilson, LMHC, Counselor
Joy Wilson
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97222
I have a great passion for empowering those suffering from chronic mental health disorders such as BIPOLAR disorder.
Our life stories do not always have the fairy tale endings that we hoped for, but we are not mere puppets. We are active agents in pursuit of meaningful moments and positive outcomes. I will help you identify your strengths and collaborate with you to find solutions to challenges in your story. I strive to provide a counseling relationship in which you can feel safe, heard, and supported as you explore or process whatever you choose.
I have a great passion for empowering those suffering from chronic mental health disorders such as BIPOLAR disorder.
Our life stories do not always have the fairy tale endings that we hoped for, but we are not mere puppets. We are active agents in pursuit of meaningful moments and positive outcomes. I will help you identify your strengths and collaborate with you to find solutions to challenges in your story. I strive to provide a counseling relationship in which you can feel safe, heard, and supported as you explore or process whatever you choose.
(503) 850-8088 View (503) 850-8088
Photo of Elli Adkins, MS, LPCA
Elli Adkins
Professional Counselor Associate , MS, LPCA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
I specialize in trauma processing, depression, and anxiety, but have worked with a variety of issues including bipolar disorder, suicidal ideation, self-harm, difficult relationships, personality disorders, PTSD, life transitions, low self-esteem, grief/loss, substance abuse, psychosis, autism, ADHD, and more.
Our past experiences can impact how we navigate the present. Understanding and processing our experiences can lead to healing and transformation. My priority is creating an open and safe space to explore these experiences through genuine connection, empathy and acceptance. I use a person-centered and trauma-informed approach to therapy that draws on techniques from attachment theory, somatic therapy, EMDR, parts work (internal family systems), emotionally focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and others that align with your unique needs, values and goals.
I specialize in trauma processing, depression, and anxiety, but have worked with a variety of issues including bipolar disorder, suicidal ideation, self-harm, difficult relationships, personality disorders, PTSD, life transitions, low self-esteem, grief/loss, substance abuse, psychosis, autism, ADHD, and more.
Our past experiences can impact how we navigate the present. Understanding and processing our experiences can lead to healing and transformation. My priority is creating an open and safe space to explore these experiences through genuine connection, empathy and acceptance. I use a person-centered and trauma-informed approach to therapy that draws on techniques from attachment theory, somatic therapy, EMDR, parts work (internal family systems), emotionally focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and others that align with your unique needs, values and goals.
(971) 396-1526 View (971) 396-1526
Photo of Lacey Burnett, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lacey Burnett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97219  (Online Only)
I have experience in addressing a wide range of concerns and diagnoses, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, relationship issues, chronic health struggles, self-esteem, stress management, and ADHD. My goal is to empower my clients with tools and insights that can facilitate positive change and enhance their overall quality of life.
I have experience in addressing a wide range of concerns and diagnoses, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, relationship issues, chronic health struggles, self-esteem, stress management, and ADHD. My goal is to empower my clients with tools and insights that can facilitate positive change and enhance their overall quality of life.
(503) 739-9366 View (503) 739-9366
Photo of Connie Burnett, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Connie Burnett
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
North Bend, OR 97459
Welcome to my BLOG! Feeling overwhelmed or having difficulty focusing? Distracted on the job? Suffering from insomnia or sleeping too much? Have you lost interest in activities that you once found enjoyable or find yourself withdrawing from family? These are signs that you may need help managing anxiety or stress which I am here to help you with. I have over 20 years’ experience working with adults, couples, children and families, and specializing in Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, Abuse and Neglect, Grief and Loss, and Crisis Intervention.
Welcome to my BLOG! Feeling overwhelmed or having difficulty focusing? Distracted on the job? Suffering from insomnia or sleeping too much? Have you lost interest in activities that you once found enjoyable or find yourself withdrawing from family? These are signs that you may need help managing anxiety or stress which I am here to help you with. I have over 20 years’ experience working with adults, couples, children and families, and specializing in Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, Abuse and Neglect, Grief and Loss, and Crisis Intervention.
(541) 366-6299 View (541) 366-6299
Photo of Suzanne Manser, PhD, Psychologist
Suzanne Manser
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97213
I am a licensed psychologist with strong specialties in treating folks with eating disorders and anxiety. I also have extensive experience working with people with depression, bipolar disorder, and relationship concerns. I am a compassionate, direct therapist. I work collaboratively with my patients to set and achieve their goals. These goals often include increased self-acceptance, as well as changes in mood, thought patterns, and behaviors. I am licensed in Oregon and California and welcome patients from both states.
I am a licensed psychologist with strong specialties in treating folks with eating disorders and anxiety. I also have extensive experience working with people with depression, bipolar disorder, and relationship concerns. I am a compassionate, direct therapist. I work collaboratively with my patients to set and achieve their goals. These goals often include increased self-acceptance, as well as changes in mood, thought patterns, and behaviors. I am licensed in Oregon and California and welcome patients from both states.
(503) 236-4343 x5 View (503) 236-4343 x5
Photo of Charmaine Read, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Charmaine Read
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212  (Online Only)
NOW Accepting new clients! I believe that a good fit and feeling confident with your therapist is the first step in reaching your therapeutic goals. Since 2011, I have worked with a wide array of clients and I have specific experience working with people who experience depression, anxiety, Bipolar, life transitions, stress, self-esteem challenges, women’s issues, trauma, and more. Since everyone is different, I utilize a variety of approaches to help people attain the life they desire and deserve. These include but are not limited to CBT, DBT, EMDR, mindfulness, and solution focused therapy.
NOW Accepting new clients! I believe that a good fit and feeling confident with your therapist is the first step in reaching your therapeutic goals. Since 2011, I have worked with a wide array of clients and I have specific experience working with people who experience depression, anxiety, Bipolar, life transitions, stress, self-esteem challenges, women’s issues, trauma, and more. Since everyone is different, I utilize a variety of approaches to help people attain the life they desire and deserve. These include but are not limited to CBT, DBT, EMDR, mindfulness, and solution focused therapy.
(503) 782-5165 View (503) 782-5165
Photo of Maribelle Ortiz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maribelle Ortiz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tigard, OR 97223
With a focus on mental health conditions such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, I provide specialized expertise in grief counseling.
With compassion, empathy, attentive listening, and effective communication, I'm here to offer a safe space for you. Let's begin your journey towards healing and growth together.
With a focus on mental health conditions such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, I provide specialized expertise in grief counseling.
With compassion, empathy, attentive listening, and effective communication, I'm here to offer a safe space for you. Let's begin your journey towards healing and growth together.
(503) 461-9245 View (503) 461-9245
Photo of Clarissa Jane Shepherd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Clarissa Jane Shepherd
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Woodburn, OR 97071  (Online Only)
I specialize in trauma based treatment, working with those struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, parenting issues, marriage & family difficulties, weight issues/struggles, spiritual crisis & questions, women's issues including struggles associated with pregnancy & postpartum, coping with spousal abuse, pornography addiction, etc.
I specialize in trauma based treatment, working with those struggling with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, parenting issues, marriage & family difficulties, weight issues/struggles, spiritual crisis & questions, women's issues including struggles associated with pregnancy & postpartum, coping with spousal abuse, pornography addiction, etc.
(503) 217-2465 View (503) 217-2465
Photo of Jerome Yoman, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist
Jerome Yoman
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97005  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I help adults of all ages with most goals and problems, but have extensive specialized training and experience with: depression, insomnia, communication skills, family stress related to serious mental illnesses such as bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
My purpose is to help adults of all ages, and their families, improve the quality of their lives. I provide life skills training and psychological therapy to help you accomplish personal goals, gain emotional strength, and further your values. Together we create a good working relationship, where you feel safe openly sharing your experiences, and develop a common understanding of your concerns. That understanding leads to action strategies for the changes you wish to make, relying most on those demonstrated as effective for people with your concerns. We will regularly evaluate how well my services are working for you.
I help adults of all ages with most goals and problems, but have extensive specialized training and experience with: depression, insomnia, communication skills, family stress related to serious mental illnesses such as bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
My purpose is to help adults of all ages, and their families, improve the quality of their lives. I provide life skills training and psychological therapy to help you accomplish personal goals, gain emotional strength, and further your values. Together we create a good working relationship, where you feel safe openly sharing your experiences, and develop a common understanding of your concerns. That understanding leads to action strategies for the changes you wish to make, relying most on those demonstrated as effective for people with your concerns. We will regularly evaluate how well my services are working for you.
(503) 567-1933 View (503) 567-1933
Photo of Christian J Colton, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christian J Colton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Eugene, OR 97401
Waitlist at this time-It's hard work to be a person! Each of us, no matter where we are in life, have our own personal struggles and successes to tell. Be it the stress of our present moment, our anxieties about the future, or the pain of our past, I would be honored to support you. As a counselor, I strive to provide a safe, productive, and healing space to understand and accept our past, so that we can fully partake in the gifts of the present. All are celebrated here. My areas of specialization include PTSD, Panic and Anxiety Disorders, Religious/Spiritual Traumas, as well as Bipolar and Schizophrenia Disorders.
Waitlist at this time-It's hard work to be a person! Each of us, no matter where we are in life, have our own personal struggles and successes to tell. Be it the stress of our present moment, our anxieties about the future, or the pain of our past, I would be honored to support you. As a counselor, I strive to provide a safe, productive, and healing space to understand and accept our past, so that we can fully partake in the gifts of the present. All are celebrated here. My areas of specialization include PTSD, Panic and Anxiety Disorders, Religious/Spiritual Traumas, as well as Bipolar and Schizophrenia Disorders.
(541) 230-7299 View (541) 230-7299
Photo of Kendra A Brott, MS, MAT, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kendra A Brott
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MAT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eugene, OR 97403
Kendra grew up as a military brat and has a deep personal understanding of PTSD, bipolar, autism, and schizophrenia.
From acceleratedresolutiontherapy.com: Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) is a unique approach to psychotherapy. ART is unique because the ART Therapist guides the client to replace the negative images in the mind that cause the symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress with positive images of the client’s choosing. This is done quickly, most often within one session! Once the negative images have been replaced by positive ones, the triggers will be gone. Nightmares and repeated intrusive thoughts will stop. Basic & Enhanced training in ART. Kendra offers reality-based talk therapy as well.
Kendra grew up as a military brat and has a deep personal understanding of PTSD, bipolar, autism, and schizophrenia.
From acceleratedresolutiontherapy.com: Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) is a unique approach to psychotherapy. ART is unique because the ART Therapist guides the client to replace the negative images in the mind that cause the symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress with positive images of the client’s choosing. This is done quickly, most often within one session! Once the negative images have been replaced by positive ones, the triggers will be gone. Nightmares and repeated intrusive thoughts will stop. Basic & Enhanced training in ART. Kendra offers reality-based talk therapy as well.
(458) 236-7449 View (458) 236-7449
Photo of Rachael Gordon - Southern Oregon Psychiatry, LLC, PMHNP
Southern Oregon Psychiatry, LLC
PMHNP
Verified Verified
Medford, OR 97501
Visit our website sopsychiatry.com to request a consultation. Southern Oregon Psychiatry offers comprehensive psychiatric services to adults throughout Oregon and California. Conditions treated include mood disorders (e.g. depression, bipolar disorder), ADHD, anxiety disorders, psychosis, PTSD, OCD and substance use disorders. We offer special rates for veterans and first responders.
Visit our website sopsychiatry.com to request a consultation. Southern Oregon Psychiatry offers comprehensive psychiatric services to adults throughout Oregon and California. Conditions treated include mood disorders (e.g. depression, bipolar disorder), ADHD, anxiety disorders, psychosis, PTSD, OCD and substance use disorders. We offer special rates for veterans and first responders.
(541) 243-5314 View (541) 243-5314
Photo of Tera Hadassah Gold, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tera Hadassah Gold
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Astoria, OR 97103  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience and training in CPTSD, Dissociative Disorders, Ruminating types of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, ADHD, ASD, and Bipolar Disorder, and Personality Disorders.
My ideal client is someone who is committed to changing their lives for the better. I like to work with people who want to make a difference in the world in their own unique way. True healing and change is always a door we can walk through. Together, we can find out what works so that you can feel better about yourself, express yourself, and share your unique self or selves with the world.
I have experience and training in CPTSD, Dissociative Disorders, Ruminating types of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, ADHD, ASD, and Bipolar Disorder, and Personality Disorders.
My ideal client is someone who is committed to changing their lives for the better. I like to work with people who want to make a difference in the world in their own unique way. True healing and change is always a door we can walk through. Together, we can find out what works so that you can feel better about yourself, express yourself, and share your unique self or selves with the world.
(971) 248-7816 View (971) 248-7816
Photo of Jennifer Crocker, MCFC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Crocker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MCFC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newberg, OR 97132
I have lived and educational experience working with PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, ADHD, and Anxiety.
I currently have a few openings (primarily daytime) and a small wait list (no paperwork required to be on the wait list). I enjoy clients who come to me with complex concerns, who are looking for something other than a cookie cutter experience. My focus is on helping you work through the things that aren’t working for you. My goal is to meet you where you are and walk with you through your journey. You are the driver of our therapeutic car and I step into the passenger seat. I guide you using many different techniques/therapy styles and you are the one completely in control.
I have lived and educational experience working with PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, ADHD, and Anxiety.
I currently have a few openings (primarily daytime) and a small wait list (no paperwork required to be on the wait list). I enjoy clients who come to me with complex concerns, who are looking for something other than a cookie cutter experience. My focus is on helping you work through the things that aren’t working for you. My goal is to meet you where you are and walk with you through your journey. You are the driver of our therapeutic car and I step into the passenger seat. I guide you using many different techniques/therapy styles and you are the one completely in control.
(971) 287-6369 View (971) 287-6369
Photo of Lara Welford, MSW, CSWA, CADC-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lara Welford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, CSWA, CADC-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Grande, OR 97850
Waitlist for new clients
Holistic and collaborative post-binary therapist with immediate openings. Now accepting OHP and other major insurance. Offering individual, family, and couples therapy for mental health, addiction concerns, identity-affirming care and entheogen integration support. Specialties: LGBTQIA2S, neurodiversity, gentle parenting, early childhood, transition-age youth, I/DD, anxious states, body-mind connection, creativity, non-conformist and alternative spirituality, clients with significant trauma history (complex PTSD, survivors of domestic violence and childhood abuse), bipolar disorder, and dual diagnosis (addictions and mental health).
Holistic and collaborative post-binary therapist with immediate openings. Now accepting OHP and other major insurance. Offering individual, family, and couples therapy for mental health, addiction concerns, identity-affirming care and entheogen integration support. Specialties: LGBTQIA2S, neurodiversity, gentle parenting, early childhood, transition-age youth, I/DD, anxious states, body-mind connection, creativity, non-conformist and alternative spirituality, clients with significant trauma history (complex PTSD, survivors of domestic violence and childhood abuse), bipolar disorder, and dual diagnosis (addictions and mental health).
(541) 697-4482 View (541) 697-4482
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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.