Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Nolensville, TN

Photo of Kelsey Cardin- -Trauma And Relationship Therapist, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelsey Cardin- -Trauma And Relationship Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Nolensville, TN 37135
Are you feeling frozen in fear of the unknown? Has a traumatic event halted your ability to cope with life? Are life transitions just difficult to process? As a empathetic and trauma-informed therapist, I meet you where you are at in life. Together, we'll navigate life's challenges with a focus on mindfulness, self-discovery, and empowerment. I am LGBTQIA+ & Neurodivergent affirming. I take Aetna insurance and offer superbills.
Are you feeling frozen in fear of the unknown? Has a traumatic event halted your ability to cope with life? Are life transitions just difficult to process? As a empathetic and trauma-informed therapist, I meet you where you are at in life. Together, we'll navigate life's challenges with a focus on mindfulness, self-discovery, and empowerment. I am LGBTQIA+ & Neurodivergent affirming. I take Aetna insurance and offer superbills.
(901) 401-9023 View (901) 401-9023
Photo of Alex Ruh, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alex Ruh
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nolensville, TN 37135  (Online Only)
I'm extremely passionate about helping others live to their truest potential. Life has a way of putting many of us in a chronic fight or flight mode, and I strive to bring people back to their space of equilibrium. That place you go when you close your eyes and think about a life without as much chaos doesn't have to be a mere daydream, we can work together to make it reality.
I'm extremely passionate about helping others live to their truest potential. Life has a way of putting many of us in a chronic fight or flight mode, and I strive to bring people back to their space of equilibrium. That place you go when you close your eyes and think about a life without as much chaos doesn't have to be a mere daydream, we can work together to make it reality.
(865) 910-8491 View (865) 910-8491
Photo of Allison Hunnicutt, LMFT, CCTP, CSAT-S, CMAT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Allison Hunnicutt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCTP, CSAT-S, CMAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nolensville, TN 37135
In my personal and professional life, I have found one thing to be true: Life can be hard. I have a passion for supporting others in resolving pain and reclaiming fullness in life. While pain is an inevitable part of the human experience, suffering is optional. I am dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families heal from relational and other traumas, problematic sexual behaviors, addictions, and intimacy disorders. I see brokenhearted adults and children as they learn to cope with an unstable world. My heart is to heal the broken hearted and give hope where hope was once lost.
In my personal and professional life, I have found one thing to be true: Life can be hard. I have a passion for supporting others in resolving pain and reclaiming fullness in life. While pain is an inevitable part of the human experience, suffering is optional. I am dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families heal from relational and other traumas, problematic sexual behaviors, addictions, and intimacy disorders. I see brokenhearted adults and children as they learn to cope with an unstable world. My heart is to heal the broken hearted and give hope where hope was once lost.
(615) 395-2912 View (615) 395-2912

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Gayle Anderson, LPC-MHS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gayle Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-MHS
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027  (Online Only)
I've worked with clients in setting goals as it pertains to surviving and moving past trauma, anxiety, abuse, and fear of abandonment, along with mood symptoms associated with bipolar disorder.
Hello! I am an LPC-MHSP residing in Tennessee. I became involved in working with both teens and adults who have been abused or traumatized after seeing how much it can impact their lives. I see strengths in all of my clients and I work with them to recognize them, and how they can use their strengths to help them move forward and achieve their dreams without allowing past trauma, anxiety, abuse or other symptoms to prevent them from doing so.
I've worked with clients in setting goals as it pertains to surviving and moving past trauma, anxiety, abuse, and fear of abandonment, along with mood symptoms associated with bipolar disorder.
Hello! I am an LPC-MHSP residing in Tennessee. I became involved in working with both teens and adults who have been abused or traumatized after seeing how much it can impact their lives. I see strengths in all of my clients and I work with them to recognize them, and how they can use their strengths to help them move forward and achieve their dreams without allowing past trauma, anxiety, abuse or other symptoms to prevent them from doing so.
(423) 621-4167 View (423) 621-4167
Photo of Client Support - HopeNation
HopeNation
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37067  (Online Only)
HopeNation offers assistance with: anxiety, depression, life transitions, academic difficulties, trauma, bipolar disorders, behavioral issues related to acting out & dysregulation, ADHD, grief & loss, social difficulties, impact of divorce, & adoption/foster care.
Does your child, teen or young adult (up to age 26) struggle to experience the best that life has to offer? As a parent do you have challenges that create overwhelm and distance between you and your child? As a young adult, are you at a loss for how to handle what life throws your way? HopeNation therapists offer hope and healing to children, teens, young adults and their families by empowering our clients to take charge of their lives. Proven interventions are used within a supportive and non-judgmental space that allows growth and transformation to take hold and flourish. You are not alone, reach out and connect today...
HopeNation offers assistance with: anxiety, depression, life transitions, academic difficulties, trauma, bipolar disorders, behavioral issues related to acting out & dysregulation, ADHD, grief & loss, social difficulties, impact of divorce, & adoption/foster care.
Does your child, teen or young adult (up to age 26) struggle to experience the best that life has to offer? As a parent do you have challenges that create overwhelm and distance between you and your child? As a young adult, are you at a loss for how to handle what life throws your way? HopeNation therapists offer hope and healing to children, teens, young adults and their families by empowering our clients to take charge of their lives. Proven interventions are used within a supportive and non-judgmental space that allows growth and transformation to take hold and flourish. You are not alone, reach out and connect today...
(629) 209-1769 View (629) 209-1769
Photo of Gwen Burke, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gwen Burke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37067
My goal while working with individuals and couples in therapy is to help you cope with emotional pain and life stressors in order for you to lead a healthier and happier life. I want to assist you in thriving not just surviving life. I have experience utilizing Cognitive Behavioral, Family Systems and Solution Focused therapy techniques to help people to cope with depression, bipolar, anxiety, grief and loss, stress management, and other major life transitions such as deciding to have children, launching children, and caretaking parents. I am an LGBTQIA+ ally.
My goal while working with individuals and couples in therapy is to help you cope with emotional pain and life stressors in order for you to lead a healthier and happier life. I want to assist you in thriving not just surviving life. I have experience utilizing Cognitive Behavioral, Family Systems and Solution Focused therapy techniques to help people to cope with depression, bipolar, anxiety, grief and loss, stress management, and other major life transitions such as deciding to have children, launching children, and caretaking parents. I am an LGBTQIA+ ally.
(629) 205-7970 View (629) 205-7970
Photo of Darragh Bugter, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Darragh Bugter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
I have experience in helping clients with anxiety disorders, panic disorder, mood disorders, bipolar disorder, anger management, motivation issues, self esteem and confidence issues, PTSD, personality disorders, ASD, and AD(H)D.
My passion is providing therapy services for adolescents, teenagers, and young adults (12-35). I am licensed in Tennessee with 10 years of professional work experience in America as well as the Netherlands. Prior to my time at private practice, I was fortunate to work with a diverse population facing a broad spectrum of clinical issues in the community and local mental health centers. I have experience as a therapist in crisis care, PHP/IOP, inpatient, and residential settings. For more information on my previous work experience, please consider viewing my LinkedIn profile.
I have experience in helping clients with anxiety disorders, panic disorder, mood disorders, bipolar disorder, anger management, motivation issues, self esteem and confidence issues, PTSD, personality disorders, ASD, and AD(H)D.
My passion is providing therapy services for adolescents, teenagers, and young adults (12-35). I am licensed in Tennessee with 10 years of professional work experience in America as well as the Netherlands. Prior to my time at private practice, I was fortunate to work with a diverse population facing a broad spectrum of clinical issues in the community and local mental health centers. I have experience as a therapist in crisis care, PHP/IOP, inpatient, and residential settings. For more information on my previous work experience, please consider viewing my LinkedIn profile.
(615) 392-6499 View (615) 392-6499
Photo of Scarlett Bright, MA, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Scarlett Bright
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37067
I have extensive experience working with neuro divergent clients, clients who struggled with substance misuse, bipolar, dual diagnosis, and non-normative relationships.
“To thine own self be true...thou canst not then be false to any man." - Shakespeare. I am a mature therapist with real world experience. One of my greatest joys is being a grandmother. I understand the difficulties of balancing family, work, relationships, and self-care. The feelings of distress, fear, shame, and isolation for not meeting the unobtainable expectations society places on us of can feel debilitating, even unbearable. Allow me to assist you. Together we will figure things out and create a path for you to become the best version of your authentic self, reclaim your joy and love who you are.
I have extensive experience working with neuro divergent clients, clients who struggled with substance misuse, bipolar, dual diagnosis, and non-normative relationships.
“To thine own self be true...thou canst not then be false to any man." - Shakespeare. I am a mature therapist with real world experience. One of my greatest joys is being a grandmother. I understand the difficulties of balancing family, work, relationships, and self-care. The feelings of distress, fear, shame, and isolation for not meeting the unobtainable expectations society places on us of can feel debilitating, even unbearable. Allow me to assist you. Together we will figure things out and create a path for you to become the best version of your authentic self, reclaim your joy and love who you are.
(615) 235-6293 View (615) 235-6293
Photo of Justin Nixon, LPC, MHSP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Justin Nixon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
I am committed to reducing suffering and improving quality of life, I specialize in treating personality disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, anger, addiction, and intrusive thoughts.
Just Updated this for September. Tired of waiting months for a mental health appointment? Look no further! I’m a therapist with immediate openings and am offering free 20-minute consultations to see if we're the right fit. Whether you're unsure about costs, insurance coverage, or if a male therapist can meet your needs, this consultation is your opportunity to find out. Don't let another day go by feeling overwhelmed. Schedule your free consultation today. Online scheduling is available though my website, by phone, email or though this site.
I am committed to reducing suffering and improving quality of life, I specialize in treating personality disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, anger, addiction, and intrusive thoughts.
Just Updated this for September. Tired of waiting months for a mental health appointment? Look no further! I’m a therapist with immediate openings and am offering free 20-minute consultations to see if we're the right fit. Whether you're unsure about costs, insurance coverage, or if a male therapist can meet your needs, this consultation is your opportunity to find out. Don't let another day go by feeling overwhelmed. Schedule your free consultation today. Online scheduling is available though my website, by phone, email or though this site.
(615) 502-4146 View (615) 502-4146
Photo of Amanda Harrell, PsyD, Psychologist
Amanda Harrell
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027  (Online Only)
I have had the pleasure of doing therapy and helping my clients achieve their goals since 2002. Some clients have seen me for help with Depression, Anxiety or Bipolar Disorders. Some have had a history of self esteem issues or relationship conflicts with others. I have also worked with clients who are usually "okay" emotionally, but need extra support and assistance as they go through a rough time dealing with a particular stressor in their lives including divorce, grief over a loss or death of a loved one, losing a job, transitioning to retirement or adulthood, etc.
I have had the pleasure of doing therapy and helping my clients achieve their goals since 2002. Some clients have seen me for help with Depression, Anxiety or Bipolar Disorders. Some have had a history of self esteem issues or relationship conflicts with others. I have also worked with clients who are usually "okay" emotionally, but need extra support and assistance as they go through a rough time dealing with a particular stressor in their lives including divorce, grief over a loss or death of a loved one, losing a job, transitioning to retirement or adulthood, etc.
(615) 239-0660 View (615) 239-0660
Photo of Merna A Elsols, LMFT, RPT™, Marriage & Family Therapist
Merna A Elsols
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RPT™
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
I help children, teens/young adults, adults, couples, and families across the life span struggling with anxiety, depression, self-harm, suicidal ideation, bipolar/mood disorders, and relational issues.
Healing happens when we attend to our attachment wounds, address our inner parts' needs, and adopt healthy communication patterns and boundaries. When we feel heard in a safe space, we can begin to unpack our hurt, explore our needs, and express our feelings. I utilize an integrative and supportive approach to honor clients' stories and needs, establish and reignite meaningful relationships, and practice mindful emotional expression. My goal is to support clients as they process past memories, enhance present connections, and plan for the future.
I help children, teens/young adults, adults, couples, and families across the life span struggling with anxiety, depression, self-harm, suicidal ideation, bipolar/mood disorders, and relational issues.
Healing happens when we attend to our attachment wounds, address our inner parts' needs, and adopt healthy communication patterns and boundaries. When we feel heard in a safe space, we can begin to unpack our hurt, explore our needs, and express our feelings. I utilize an integrative and supportive approach to honor clients' stories and needs, establish and reignite meaningful relationships, and practice mindful emotional expression. My goal is to support clients as they process past memories, enhance present connections, and plan for the future.
(629) 265-9801 View (629) 265-9801
Photo of Todd Hickman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Todd Hickman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37064
If you need to talk to someone, don't wait. I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 30 years experience working with children, teens, families and adults of all ages specializing in treating a variety of issues including addictions, anxiety, depression, behavior problems, bipolar disorder, struggling teens, couples and adults of all ages. I am taking new clients by telehealth and in-person in the Nashville/Franklin/Springhill area. Let's get started today!
If you need to talk to someone, don't wait. I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 30 years experience working with children, teens, families and adults of all ages specializing in treating a variety of issues including addictions, anxiety, depression, behavior problems, bipolar disorder, struggling teens, couples and adults of all ages. I am taking new clients by telehealth and in-person in the Nashville/Franklin/Springhill area. Let's get started today!
(615) 471-7236 View (615) 471-7236
Photo of J Lauren Webb, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
J Lauren Webb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
Lauren specializes in working with adults who are striving to adjust to/ cope with multiple stressors, uncertainty, change, and issues related to perfectionism, as well as adults who have been diagnosed with/ think they could benefit from assessment for and treatment of Anxiety Disorders, Depressive Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, and/ or certain Personality Disorders.
Lauren specializes in working with adults who are striving to adjust to/ cope with multiple stressors, uncertainty, change, and issues related to perfectionism, as well as adults who have been diagnosed with/ think they could benefit from assessment for and treatment of Anxiety Disorders, Depressive Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, and/ or certain Personality Disorders.
(615) 392-4923 View (615) 392-4923
Photo of Lara Branscomb Jackson, PhD, LPCMHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lara Branscomb Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37067
I specialize in attachment, relationships, eating disorders, understanding & managing bipolar disorder, & family systems.
I believe that understanding our attachment style is one avenue to self-discovery. I use an integrative approach to help clients improve their connection with others and create a life of hope and purpose. My goal is to help clients improve their quality of life, increase self compassion, develop coping skills boundaries, decrease suffering, and improve body image. I work with adolescents, adults, couples, and families who struggle with relationships, chronic illness, stress, eating disorders/disordered eating, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, personality disorders, marital or family problems, grief and/or co-occurring disorders
I specialize in attachment, relationships, eating disorders, understanding & managing bipolar disorder, & family systems.
I believe that understanding our attachment style is one avenue to self-discovery. I use an integrative approach to help clients improve their connection with others and create a life of hope and purpose. My goal is to help clients improve their quality of life, increase self compassion, develop coping skills boundaries, decrease suffering, and improve body image. I work with adolescents, adults, couples, and families who struggle with relationships, chronic illness, stress, eating disorders/disordered eating, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, personality disorders, marital or family problems, grief and/or co-occurring disorders
(615) 861-2526 View (615) 861-2526
Photo of Claudia McCulloch, PhD,  LP, Psychologist
Claudia McCulloch
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
Claudia offers their expertise in psychological testing, particularly in cases of ADHD, anxiety, childhood behavior issues, and school avoidance. They also work extensively with clients dealing with more complex conditions, such as bipolar disorder, obsessivecompulsive disorder, and psychosis/schizophrenia. Additionally, they are highly skilled in ParentChild Interaction Therapy and supports parents in navigating the challenges of raising children with stress or bereavementrelated conditions.
Claudia offers their expertise in psychological testing, particularly in cases of ADHD, anxiety, childhood behavior issues, and school avoidance. They also work extensively with clients dealing with more complex conditions, such as bipolar disorder, obsessivecompulsive disorder, and psychosis/schizophrenia. Additionally, they are highly skilled in ParentChild Interaction Therapy and supports parents in navigating the challenges of raising children with stress or bereavementrelated conditions.
(629) 465-1021 View (629) 465-1021
Photo of Corin Stephenson, MMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Corin Stephenson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MMFT
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37064
I have worked in both community mental health and closely with psychiatrists, and have experience treating anxiety, depressive disorders , bipolar disorders, chronic pain, life transitions, grief, trauma/PTSD, addiction, interpersonal difficulties in relationships, cutting and emotional dysregulation in adolescents, domestic violence, and parenting.
Wherever you are on your journey, my goal as a therapist is to help kindle a light on your path. Reaching out for help is not easy. I work to create a safe place by building a therapeutic relationship based on genuineness, trust, and empathy. Through dialogue, the aim is to deepen the meaning of your journey, compassionately addressing any issues in your life that may have led you to therapy. I specialize in treating adults, children, and families. I enjoy working directly with parents to provide parent education, and working with children using play and art therapy.
I have worked in both community mental health and closely with psychiatrists, and have experience treating anxiety, depressive disorders , bipolar disorders, chronic pain, life transitions, grief, trauma/PTSD, addiction, interpersonal difficulties in relationships, cutting and emotional dysregulation in adolescents, domestic violence, and parenting.
Wherever you are on your journey, my goal as a therapist is to help kindle a light on your path. Reaching out for help is not easy. I work to create a safe place by building a therapeutic relationship based on genuineness, trust, and empathy. Through dialogue, the aim is to deepen the meaning of your journey, compassionately addressing any issues in your life that may have led you to therapy. I specialize in treating adults, children, and families. I enjoy working directly with parents to provide parent education, and working with children using play and art therapy.
(615) 437-7932 View (615) 437-7932
Photo of Jami Ivey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jami Ivey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Antioch, TN 37013
My name is Jami Ivey, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Tennessee and Kentucky. I have 30 years of experience in the field and over 22 years as an LCSW. I work with all ages with various issues. I work with each client on individual issues helping them reach treatment goals. I see people with various issues such as, but not limited to depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, chronic pain, trauma, life changes, behavior issues, adjustment disorder, and parenting issues.
My name is Jami Ivey, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Tennessee and Kentucky. I have 30 years of experience in the field and over 22 years as an LCSW. I work with all ages with various issues. I work with each client on individual issues helping them reach treatment goals. I see people with various issues such as, but not limited to depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, chronic pain, trauma, life changes, behavior issues, adjustment disorder, and parenting issues.
(629) 276-4912 View (629) 276-4912
Photo of Audrie Nicholson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Audrie Nicholson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Antioch, TN 37013  (Online Only)
Hi! My name is Audrie Nicholson. I am a licensed clinical social worker. I believe in a whole person approach to healing. I believe in the dignity and worth of each person and meet the client where they are in their healing journey. I use a combination of therapies including CBT, DBT, solution focused therapy, CPT, trauma informed therapies and I work with the attitude that the client is the expert of their own life and needs. I work with life stresses, transitions, anxiety, and depression. I am also comfortable with bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and schizoaffective disorder.
Hi! My name is Audrie Nicholson. I am a licensed clinical social worker. I believe in a whole person approach to healing. I believe in the dignity and worth of each person and meet the client where they are in their healing journey. I use a combination of therapies including CBT, DBT, solution focused therapy, CPT, trauma informed therapies and I work with the attitude that the client is the expert of their own life and needs. I work with life stresses, transitions, anxiety, and depression. I am also comfortable with bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and schizoaffective disorder.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Amanda Finn, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Finn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Antioch, TN 37013
Hi! My name is Amanda Finn. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have about 10 years of experience in mental health. My approach to therapy is meeting people where they are at and helping them reach the goals, they set for themselves. I have experience with and am comfortable working with the following: trauma, suicidal thoughts/gestures, anger, anxiety, depression, mental health crisis, psychotic disorders, bipolar disorder, substance use, grief and loss, behavioral issues, and personality disorders.
Hi! My name is Amanda Finn. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have about 10 years of experience in mental health. My approach to therapy is meeting people where they are at and helping them reach the goals, they set for themselves. I have experience with and am comfortable working with the following: trauma, suicidal thoughts/gestures, anger, anxiety, depression, mental health crisis, psychotic disorders, bipolar disorder, substance use, grief and loss, behavioral issues, and personality disorders.
(629) 209-5369 View (629) 209-5369
Photo of Marsha Thompson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marsha Thompson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Antioch, TN 37013
Most of this experience has been working with clients with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, relationship concerns, PTSD, anger management, self-esteem issues, coaching, individual, family, relationship, pre-marital and marital issues.
I have genuine empathy and compassion for individuals, marriages, couples, teens and women that are hurting. My practice was established for the purpose of restoring and sustaining wholeness in the lives of all people. Such wholeness is directed toward helping clients achieve more satisfying and productive lives in the contexts of their family, church, community and work place. This mission is accomplished in an environment that is grace filled, secure, caring, confidential, professional, and respectful of each person's life journey. I offer my services to all who seek personal and relational wholeness.
Most of this experience has been working with clients with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, relationship concerns, PTSD, anger management, self-esteem issues, coaching, individual, family, relationship, pre-marital and marital issues.
I have genuine empathy and compassion for individuals, marriages, couples, teens and women that are hurting. My practice was established for the purpose of restoring and sustaining wholeness in the lives of all people. Such wholeness is directed toward helping clients achieve more satisfying and productive lives in the contexts of their family, church, community and work place. This mission is accomplished in an environment that is grace filled, secure, caring, confidential, professional, and respectful of each person's life journey. I offer my services to all who seek personal and relational wholeness.
(615) 237-5045 View (615) 237-5045

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.