Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Ruther Glen, VA

Photo of Brian S Vaughan, LPC, CSAT, CSOTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brian S Vaughan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAT, CSOTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ruther Glen, VA 22546
Are you struggling with problematic sexual behaviors? Do you think you are addicted to porn? Has your spouse betrayed trust by crossing emotional boundaries with someone else? There is hope. It is possible to recover from compulsive or addictive behaviors and to have relationships restored. Many who have been negatively impacted by sexual compulsivity share feelings of anger, hurt, shame, and helplessness. I've successfully helped individuals, couples, and families heal from sex and porn addiction by providing a safe, confidential setting to help learn tools to grow beyond the grip of destructive choices back to healthy sexuality.
Are you struggling with problematic sexual behaviors? Do you think you are addicted to porn? Has your spouse betrayed trust by crossing emotional boundaries with someone else? There is hope. It is possible to recover from compulsive or addictive behaviors and to have relationships restored. Many who have been negatively impacted by sexual compulsivity share feelings of anger, hurt, shame, and helplessness. I've successfully helped individuals, couples, and families heal from sex and porn addiction by providing a safe, confidential setting to help learn tools to grow beyond the grip of destructive choices back to healthy sexuality.
(540) 390-1632 View (540) 390-1632
Photo of Michelle Patton Swisher, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Patton Swisher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ruther Glen, VA 22546  (Online Only)
Life can take many turns along the way. I am here to help navigate the way and assist with techniques for personal and professional growth. Depression, anxiety, work and family relationships and dynamics of everyday life are areas that can hinder our authentic self. I will help you explore ways for positive growth in all areas of your life. Do not let roadblocks of self doubt, mental health drain, and relationship woes keep that from you. Call me today for a consultation to discuss ways to get you to the other side.
Life can take many turns along the way. I am here to help navigate the way and assist with techniques for personal and professional growth. Depression, anxiety, work and family relationships and dynamics of everyday life are areas that can hinder our authentic self. I will help you explore ways for positive growth in all areas of your life. Do not let roadblocks of self doubt, mental health drain, and relationship woes keep that from you. Call me today for a consultation to discuss ways to get you to the other side.
(540) 802-4235 View (540) 802-4235
Photo of Elena M. Morales, MA, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Elena M. Morales
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ruther Glen, VA 22546  (Online Only)
My name is Elena and I'm currently working toward licensure as an LPC under the supervision of Dr. Catherine Smith EdD, LPC-S at Intuitive Counseling & Hypnotherapy Services, LLC. I'm here to support you on your personal journey whether you are coping with anxiety, depression, life transitions, stress, or are in need of support.
My name is Elena and I'm currently working toward licensure as an LPC under the supervision of Dr. Catherine Smith EdD, LPC-S at Intuitive Counseling & Hypnotherapy Services, LLC. I'm here to support you on your personal journey whether you are coping with anxiety, depression, life transitions, stress, or are in need of support.
(540) 253-1476 View (540) 253-1476
Photo of Shante Toliver - Rivers Bend Clinicals, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rivers Bend Clinicals, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Ruther Glen, VA 22546
Our clients require training and education on ways to improving coping mechanisms when living with a mental health illness/diagnosis. We train, monitor, and educate clients on skills development for living independently. We teach clients about their psychotropic medication and ensure medication management. We connect and educate clients to and about community resources. We also demonstrate, train, and model self-advocacy skills to our clients. Our clients may have treatment history that includes substance abuse or doctor's recommendation.
Our clients require training and education on ways to improving coping mechanisms when living with a mental health illness/diagnosis. We train, monitor, and educate clients on skills development for living independently. We teach clients about their psychotropic medication and ensure medication management. We connect and educate clients to and about community resources. We also demonstrate, train, and model self-advocacy skills to our clients. Our clients may have treatment history that includes substance abuse or doctor's recommendation.
(804) 294-3695 View (804) 294-3695
Photo of Shela White - The Safe Space Therapeutic Services, LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
The Safe Space Therapeutic Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Ruther Glen, VA 22546  (Online Only)
The Safe Space Therapeutic Services is a private practice that specialize in providing individual therapy, teen counseling, and family support services. She’la White is the founder and is a Licensed Professional Counselor with years of experience working with children and families through assessment and intervention programs.  Shela’s goal is to help you achieve a full, vital, and meaningful life. As challenges occur, life becomes stressful and it can be difficult to feel balanced and in control. She believes in empowering individuals and families by using evidence-based treatments.
The Safe Space Therapeutic Services is a private practice that specialize in providing individual therapy, teen counseling, and family support services. She’la White is the founder and is a Licensed Professional Counselor with years of experience working with children and families through assessment and intervention programs.  Shela’s goal is to help you achieve a full, vital, and meaningful life. As challenges occur, life becomes stressful and it can be difficult to feel balanced and in control. She believes in empowering individuals and families by using evidence-based treatments.
(540) 210-1590 View (540) 210-1590
Photo of Grace Johnson, MA
Grace Johnson
Resident in Counseling, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ruther Glen, VA 22546
Having been on the other side of the chair, I want to you know that the healing process is in your capable hands. This is a challenge but you have everything you need to thrive already with you. Let me be there to reflect, hold space, encourage, and guide you to higher levels of awareness. Together we can create a treatment plan to support the navigation of your emotions, symptoms, communications, and the systems you are a part of. I am formerly a PreK-5 educator and I bring direct, creative, effervescent, nurturing, and bright energy to sessions.
Having been on the other side of the chair, I want to you know that the healing process is in your capable hands. This is a challenge but you have everything you need to thrive already with you. Let me be there to reflect, hold space, encourage, and guide you to higher levels of awareness. Together we can create a treatment plan to support the navigation of your emotions, symptoms, communications, and the systems you are a part of. I am formerly a PreK-5 educator and I bring direct, creative, effervescent, nurturing, and bright energy to sessions.
(804) 676-6473 View (804) 676-6473

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Erin Janovec, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erin Janovec
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Woodford, VA 22580
Hello! My name is Erin Janovec. I am a licensed professional counselor in Virginia. My approach to therapy is a humanistic and integrated approach that considers each individual's unique needs. I am certified in EMDR and trained in TF-CBT. I have worked with clients ranging from young to old with varying diagnoses. I have experience working with individuals with substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, and more.
Hello! My name is Erin Janovec. I am a licensed professional counselor in Virginia. My approach to therapy is a humanistic and integrated approach that considers each individual's unique needs. I am certified in EMDR and trained in TF-CBT. I have worked with clients ranging from young to old with varying diagnoses. I have experience working with individuals with substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, and more.
(804) 373-2360 View (804) 373-2360
Photo of Sarah McClelland - Counseling Services of Virginia, LCSW, LPC, OT, CALT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Counseling Services of Virginia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPC, OT, CALT
Verified Verified
Bowling Green, VA 22427
Have your negative thoughts taken over? Have you been feeling sad or stressed while trying to keep it all together? Struggling with motivation? Are your relationships distant or full of conflict? Have you been feeling disconnected from those around you? Wanting to talk with someone but not knowing with whom, or how? Asking for help can be hard! Seeking therapy requires a great deal of strength and commitment and you have taken a great first step. We are going to guide you the rest of the way.
Have your negative thoughts taken over? Have you been feeling sad or stressed while trying to keep it all together? Struggling with motivation? Are your relationships distant or full of conflict? Have you been feeling disconnected from those around you? Wanting to talk with someone but not knowing with whom, or how? Asking for help can be hard! Seeking therapy requires a great deal of strength and commitment and you have taken a great first step. We are going to guide you the rest of the way.
(540) 699-1767 View (540) 699-1767

Online Therapists

Photo of Ursula V Wright, LMHC, Counselor
Ursula V Wright
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Reston, VA 20191  (Online Only)
Do you feel overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or past trauma? You don’t have to face these challenges alone. I’m here to help you explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a safe, supportive space. Whether you're managing PTSD, bipolar disorder, or navigating life changes, together, we’ll work towards healing, empowerment, and finding balance.
Do you feel overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or past trauma? You don’t have to face these challenges alone. I’m here to help you explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a safe, supportive space. Whether you're managing PTSD, bipolar disorder, or navigating life changes, together, we’ll work towards healing, empowerment, and finding balance.
(571) 609-4596 View (571) 609-4596
Photo of Jeff Lown, MA, EdS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jeff Lown
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
Harrisonburg, VA 22802
I provide individual counseling for adolescents and adults, with experience treating depression, anxiety, trauma, as well as helping individuals cope with bipolar, personality, and schizophrenia spectrum disorders.
There is never a wrong time to start therapy, nor is there a right one. We won’t worry about right or wrong, but instead we’ll accept where you are - as we work together to discover where you want to go and how to get there. I spend a lot of my free time hiking, seeking out new and interesting terrain. The growth you will hopefully experience during our work together may be much like a challenging hike, with some gentle slopes and triumphant summits, but also with trips, stumbles, and strenuous climbs. I cannot climb your mountains for you, but I will climb them with you and help to show you the way forward.
I provide individual counseling for adolescents and adults, with experience treating depression, anxiety, trauma, as well as helping individuals cope with bipolar, personality, and schizophrenia spectrum disorders.
There is never a wrong time to start therapy, nor is there a right one. We won’t worry about right or wrong, but instead we’ll accept where you are - as we work together to discover where you want to go and how to get there. I spend a lot of my free time hiking, seeking out new and interesting terrain. The growth you will hopefully experience during our work together may be much like a challenging hike, with some gentle slopes and triumphant summits, but also with trips, stumbles, and strenuous climbs. I cannot climb your mountains for you, but I will climb them with you and help to show you the way forward.
(540) 534-4438 View (540) 534-4438
Photo of Sofia Anna Crowe, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sofia Anna Crowe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Annandale, VA 22003  (Online Only)
Clinical focus includes ADHD, child/adult, parenting and family concerns, young adulthood issues, post-COVID, depression, anxiety, bipolar and chronic medical issues, addiction, co-occurring issues and a variety of couples and family issues.
I have worked as a clinical therapist for 23 years. I obtained my Master's from the U. of MD Social Work program. My training is wide ranging and I worked in many settings, including a county-wide suicide hotline, with adolescents in crisis, and outpatient and in-home therapy, and for an AZ Native Tribal Nation. I used multiple modalities in my at-home practice, including DBT (group and individual) CBT and schema, ACT, Strength based and Imago/communication focused couples therapy, multi-systemic and strategic family therapy. I work to match therapy to your needs and offer evenings and weekends. I look forward to meeting you!
Clinical focus includes ADHD, child/adult, parenting and family concerns, young adulthood issues, post-COVID, depression, anxiety, bipolar and chronic medical issues, addiction, co-occurring issues and a variety of couples and family issues.
I have worked as a clinical therapist for 23 years. I obtained my Master's from the U. of MD Social Work program. My training is wide ranging and I worked in many settings, including a county-wide suicide hotline, with adolescents in crisis, and outpatient and in-home therapy, and for an AZ Native Tribal Nation. I used multiple modalities in my at-home practice, including DBT (group and individual) CBT and schema, ACT, Strength based and Imago/communication focused couples therapy, multi-systemic and strategic family therapy. I work to match therapy to your needs and offer evenings and weekends. I look forward to meeting you!
(804) 596-4564 View (804) 596-4564
Photo of Ann Boyer Holmes - Ann Boyer Holmes, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ann Boyer Holmes, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Centreville, VA 20120
I work with men, women and adolescents dealing with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, life transitions, alcohol abuse, domestic violence, infertility, couples/relationship issues, parenting and adjustment issues.
Would you like to become the best version of yourself? That journey begins with figuring out what you want, choosing what you believe and taking responsibility for the changes you want to make. This is a step by step process best achieved in an environment of unconditional positive regard, validation and genuineness. I use evidence-based techniques including Cognitive Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Interpersonal Therapy along with mindfulness, assertiveness training and relaxation techniques. I am out of network for all insurance but happy to help you navigate that process. Ask me if you qualify for a reduced fee.
I work with men, women and adolescents dealing with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, life transitions, alcohol abuse, domestic violence, infertility, couples/relationship issues, parenting and adjustment issues.
Would you like to become the best version of yourself? That journey begins with figuring out what you want, choosing what you believe and taking responsibility for the changes you want to make. This is a step by step process best achieved in an environment of unconditional positive regard, validation and genuineness. I use evidence-based techniques including Cognitive Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Interpersonal Therapy along with mindfulness, assertiveness training and relaxation techniques. I am out of network for all insurance but happy to help you navigate that process. Ask me if you qualify for a reduced fee.
(703) 884-2177 View (703) 884-2177
Photo of Robert Phillips, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Robert Phillips
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Springfield, VA 22153
My experiences are with adults suffering from substance use, anxiety disorders, bipolar, schizophrenia disorders, anger issues, children and adults suffering from ADHD, and autism spectrum.
My name is Robert Phillips. I hold an LPC license from the state of Virginia and am a Certified Substance Abuse Professional with CSAC - A certificate. My approach is to build a strong therapeutic relationship, stay focused on the client in the present moment without judgment, help people gain skills and tools for managing complicated situations, and encourage a spirit of openness, curiosity, and acceptance to help individuals understand they can choose to respond rationally and control behaviors
My experiences are with adults suffering from substance use, anxiety disorders, bipolar, schizophrenia disorders, anger issues, children and adults suffering from ADHD, and autism spectrum.
My name is Robert Phillips. I hold an LPC license from the state of Virginia and am a Certified Substance Abuse Professional with CSAC - A certificate. My approach is to build a strong therapeutic relationship, stay focused on the client in the present moment without judgment, help people gain skills and tools for managing complicated situations, and encourage a spirit of openness, curiosity, and acceptance to help individuals understand they can choose to respond rationally and control behaviors
(757) 993-4881 View (757) 993-4881
Photo of Eeremene Piaro, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Eeremene Piaro
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23223
Hello! I'm a licensed professional therapist with four years of experience specializing in outpatient counseling. My practice encompasses working with children, adolescents, and adults dealing with various challenges, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, trauma, autism spectrum disorder, LGBTQ+ issues, life stage transition difficulties, and other mental health disorders. Taking the initiative to pursue a more fulfilling and happier life requires courage, and I commend you for taking that first step towards change. I'm here to provide you with the support and empowerment you need on your journey.
Hello! I'm a licensed professional therapist with four years of experience specializing in outpatient counseling. My practice encompasses working with children, adolescents, and adults dealing with various challenges, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief, trauma, autism spectrum disorder, LGBTQ+ issues, life stage transition difficulties, and other mental health disorders. Taking the initiative to pursue a more fulfilling and happier life requires courage, and I commend you for taking that first step towards change. I'm here to provide you with the support and empowerment you need on your journey.
(757) 654-5145 View (757) 654-5145
Photo of Katie Chandler, LCSW, LCSW-C, EMDR-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie Chandler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C, EMDR-C
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Leesburg, VA 20175
Voted Best of Fairfax in Counseling for 2021. I believe in a holistic approach that focuses on a patient's strengths. I work with my clients to develop a treatment plan that will address the whole person and their specific needs. I specialize in EMDR, Brainspotting, trauma, and the psychological symptoms related to Lyme and autoimmune disease. Other areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, life adjustments, bipolar disorder, substance abuse and chronic illness.
Voted Best of Fairfax in Counseling for 2021. I believe in a holistic approach that focuses on a patient's strengths. I work with my clients to develop a treatment plan that will address the whole person and their specific needs. I specialize in EMDR, Brainspotting, trauma, and the psychological symptoms related to Lyme and autoimmune disease. Other areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, life adjustments, bipolar disorder, substance abuse and chronic illness.
(571) 206-8609 View (571) 206-8609
Photo of Alix Price, PsyD, Psychologist
Alix Price
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Williamsburg, VA 23188
Dr. Alexandra ("Alix") Price is a clinical psychologist who has more than 16 years of experience assessing and treating various mental health diagnoses. She believes in holistic recovery and is particularly passionate about the importance of connection within the therapy relationship. Dr. Price works with adults who are struggling with adjustment disorders, depression, bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders, borderline personality disorder, grief, life transition problems, women's issues, stress management, and much more.
Dr. Alexandra ("Alix") Price is a clinical psychologist who has more than 16 years of experience assessing and treating various mental health diagnoses. She believes in holistic recovery and is particularly passionate about the importance of connection within the therapy relationship. Dr. Price works with adults who are struggling with adjustment disorders, depression, bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders, borderline personality disorder, grief, life transition problems, women's issues, stress management, and much more.
(757) 418-6443 View (757) 418-6443
Photo of Erin Janovec, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erin Janovec
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Manassas, VA 20112
Hello! My name is Erin Janovec. I am a licensed professional counselor in Virginia. My approach to therapy is a humanistic and integrated approach that considers each individual's unique needs. I am certified in EMDR and trained in TF-CBT. I have worked with clients ranging from young to old with varying diagnoses. I have experience working with individuals with substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, and more.
Hello! My name is Erin Janovec. I am a licensed professional counselor in Virginia. My approach to therapy is a humanistic and integrated approach that considers each individual's unique needs. I am certified in EMDR and trained in TF-CBT. I have worked with clients ranging from young to old with varying diagnoses. I have experience working with individuals with substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, and more.
(540) 264-9592 View (540) 264-9592
Photo of Synthia L Lawton - Alliance Family Counseling, LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alliance Family Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Chesterfield, VA 23236
My professional experience includes the provision of clinical services in both residential (milieu) therapy and outpatient practice clinical specialties include Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Borderline Personality, Schizoaffective Disorder, PTSD, Attachment, Anger Management and Grief and loss, etc. I have expertise in trauma recovery, specifically healing from childhood physical, emotional and sexual abuse. I accept and work with patients of all age ranges and work with clients who are over the age of 65.
My professional experience includes the provision of clinical services in both residential (milieu) therapy and outpatient practice clinical specialties include Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Borderline Personality, Schizoaffective Disorder, PTSD, Attachment, Anger Management and Grief and loss, etc. I have expertise in trauma recovery, specifically healing from childhood physical, emotional and sexual abuse. I accept and work with patients of all age ranges and work with clients who are over the age of 65.
(804) 207-7220 View (804) 207-7220
Photo of Roderick A. Hampton II, MS, LPC-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Roderick A. Hampton II
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23230  (Online Only)
I have more than 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults who are seeking help with mental health concerns related to depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, trauma, anxiety, PTSD, substance use disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, as well as life transitions and other obstacles.
Wellness has been defined as a way of life oriented toward optimal health and well-being in which body, mind, and spirit are integrated to live more fully within the human and natural community. Ideally, it is the optimum state of health and well-being that each individual is capable of achieving. When working together in counseling, I perceive one’s thoughts are related to their feelings and reactions to events, not the events themselves. Counseling sessions are individualized to meet the unique needs of each client.
I have more than 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults who are seeking help with mental health concerns related to depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, trauma, anxiety, PTSD, substance use disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, as well as life transitions and other obstacles.
Wellness has been defined as a way of life oriented toward optimal health and well-being in which body, mind, and spirit are integrated to live more fully within the human and natural community. Ideally, it is the optimum state of health and well-being that each individual is capable of achieving. When working together in counseling, I perceive one’s thoughts are related to their feelings and reactions to events, not the events themselves. Counseling sessions are individualized to meet the unique needs of each client.
(804) 258-6027 View (804) 258-6027
Photo of Lawrence M Ross, PhD, Psychologist
Lawrence M Ross
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23510
Specialty areas include: ADHD, Learning Disabilities,School or Behavior problems, Socialization issues, Depression, Bipolar Disorder,Anxiety, Asperger's/ASD Anger/Stress Management,Military Issues,Parenting Issues, Communication and Relationship difficulties,Family Therapy and Marital Therapy.
If you're looking for a psychologist who is easy to speak with, has a wide variety of experience, who offers cost effective confidential treatment and who has a proven track record of helping people manage the challenges in their lives, then look no further! I have been in practice for over 25 years. My work with clients includes: *Individual Therapy (with children, adolescents and adults). *Family Therapy. *Parenting Issues .*ADHD/Learning Disabilities Testing and Treatment. *Marital/Couples Therapy (including Collaborative Marital/Couples Therapy). *Separation and Divorce work (Collaborative and Traditional models of Divorce) Divorce Coach, Co-Parenting Coach,Co-Parenting Plan Development, Child Specialist
Specialty areas include: ADHD, Learning Disabilities,School or Behavior problems, Socialization issues, Depression, Bipolar Disorder,Anxiety, Asperger's/ASD Anger/Stress Management,Military Issues,Parenting Issues, Communication and Relationship difficulties,Family Therapy and Marital Therapy.
If you're looking for a psychologist who is easy to speak with, has a wide variety of experience, who offers cost effective confidential treatment and who has a proven track record of helping people manage the challenges in their lives, then look no further! I have been in practice for over 25 years. My work with clients includes: *Individual Therapy (with children, adolescents and adults). *Family Therapy. *Parenting Issues .*ADHD/Learning Disabilities Testing and Treatment. *Marital/Couples Therapy (including Collaborative Marital/Couples Therapy). *Separation and Divorce work (Collaborative and Traditional models of Divorce) Divorce Coach, Co-Parenting Coach,Co-Parenting Plan Development, Child Specialist
(757) 986-6234 View (757) 986-6234

See more therapy options for Ruther Glen

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.