Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Seattle, WA

Photo of Gina Antonia Nepa, LCSW, LICSW, LMSW, CTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gina Antonia Nepa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, LMSW, CTP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98108  (Online Only)
I'm honored to get to hold space with you. I am primarily offering ADHD assessments at this time. I’m passionate about working with clients to confirm or rule out ADHD, and offer subsequent treatment to support in ADHD management and/or the presence of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, substance misuse, and trauma impact. I'm particularly passionate about working with LGBTQIA+ folks, and believe that liberation of shame is imperative in a strong therapeutic partnership. I fundamentally believe that each of us is doing our best with the tools that we have.
I'm honored to get to hold space with you. I am primarily offering ADHD assessments at this time. I’m passionate about working with clients to confirm or rule out ADHD, and offer subsequent treatment to support in ADHD management and/or the presence of anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, substance misuse, and trauma impact. I'm particularly passionate about working with LGBTQIA+ folks, and believe that liberation of shame is imperative in a strong therapeutic partnership. I fundamentally believe that each of us is doing our best with the tools that we have.
(206) 558-5483 View (206) 558-5483
Photo of Kimberly Shea, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly Shea
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98133
Please see below for up-to-date availability. I offer treatment and support for all anxiety and mood-related issues such as depression and bipolar. I utilize my advanced training as an EMDR therapist for those with a history of trauma, and I also work with clients who may have co-occurring issues such as substance abuse or addiction. My practice profile is generally 50% trauma, 25% anxiety and mood-related issues, and 25% substance abuse and chemical dependency. Clients and colleagues describe me as easy to talk to and genuine, with an interactive approach; my style is to balance listening with effective feedback.
Please see below for up-to-date availability. I offer treatment and support for all anxiety and mood-related issues such as depression and bipolar. I utilize my advanced training as an EMDR therapist for those with a history of trauma, and I also work with clients who may have co-occurring issues such as substance abuse or addiction. My practice profile is generally 50% trauma, 25% anxiety and mood-related issues, and 25% substance abuse and chemical dependency. Clients and colleagues describe me as easy to talk to and genuine, with an interactive approach; my style is to balance listening with effective feedback.
(206) 208-2644 View (206) 208-2644
Photo of Tracy Jordan Adams, MA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Tracy Jordan Adams
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
Waitlist for new clients
I work with individuals who identify as LGBTQ, I also specialize in Bipolar Disorder and anxiety.
It takes courage to ask for help. Life seems to throw us one challenge after another and we can feel weighed down by the stress of daily living. Sometimes we can lose sight of what makes us feel special and valued. I am here to work with your individual needs. Feelings of anxiety, depression, anger, and loneliness can leave us feeling disconnected from others. If we do not take the time to understand where these feelings stem from and how they affect us, we cannot begin to heal and feel whole again. I value you as an individual and want to understand your unique experiences. I want to help you to feel safe and accepted at all times.
I work with individuals who identify as LGBTQ, I also specialize in Bipolar Disorder and anxiety.
It takes courage to ask for help. Life seems to throw us one challenge after another and we can feel weighed down by the stress of daily living. Sometimes we can lose sight of what makes us feel special and valued. I am here to work with your individual needs. Feelings of anxiety, depression, anger, and loneliness can leave us feeling disconnected from others. If we do not take the time to understand where these feelings stem from and how they affect us, we cannot begin to heal and feel whole again. I value you as an individual and want to understand your unique experiences. I want to help you to feel safe and accepted at all times.
(206) 823-0816 View (206) 823-0816
Photo of Ben Danis - Benjamin Danis PhD, PhD, Psychologist
Benjamin Danis PhD
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98112  (Online Only)
My therapy is shaped by Gestalt theory, my experience of working with patients at the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance, and my work with bipolar, depressed and anxious clients.
Are you at a moment in your life when you realize that it might be helpful to discuss your current life situation with someone who could help guide you out of a stuck or confused place? People often feel overwhelmed, depressed or anxious when they deal with transitions in life - a change in work, health or relationships.
My therapy is shaped by Gestalt theory, my experience of working with patients at the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance, and my work with bipolar, depressed and anxious clients.
Are you at a moment in your life when you realize that it might be helpful to discuss your current life situation with someone who could help guide you out of a stuck or confused place? People often feel overwhelmed, depressed or anxious when they deal with transitions in life - a change in work, health or relationships.
(206) 429-6354 View (206) 429-6354
Photo of Dr. Kristen Strack, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Kristen Strack
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98126
My areas of treatment expertise include depression, anxiety, bipolar and psychotic disorders, trauma, insomnia, OCD, and life transitions.
Upcoming openings available. I am a licensed clinical psychologist with 20+ years of experience in individual and group therapy. Therapy is a collaborative process, you are the expert on your experiences and I assist you with improving and thriving in your life. Culture, learning history, experiences, and values shape everyone and these are important to explore and understand. We will work together to identify your goals and then approach treatment from a strengths-based perspective. Our work will emphasize improving your psychological well-being, increasing resilience, enhancing your quality of life, and decreasing symptoms.
My areas of treatment expertise include depression, anxiety, bipolar and psychotic disorders, trauma, insomnia, OCD, and life transitions.
Upcoming openings available. I am a licensed clinical psychologist with 20+ years of experience in individual and group therapy. Therapy is a collaborative process, you are the expert on your experiences and I assist you with improving and thriving in your life. Culture, learning history, experiences, and values shape everyone and these are important to explore and understand. We will work together to identify your goals and then approach treatment from a strengths-based perspective. Our work will emphasize improving your psychological well-being, increasing resilience, enhancing your quality of life, and decreasing symptoms.
(206) 210-1385 View (206) 210-1385
Photo of Janelle Painter, PhD, Psychologist
Janelle Painter
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98126
My areas of expertise include treating symptoms and disorders that impact the way we experience emotions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, psychosis, interpersonal distress, and life transitions.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with 15 years of experience providing individual and group therapy services to adults (in-person and telehealth sessions). I approach therapy from the perspective that you are the expert of your experiences and I am a resource to help you effectively navigate your life. We will work together to identify treatment targets and develop a plan for care. The focus of our sessions and the skills we discuss will be guided by your personal wellness goals. Aspects of your past, personal identities, culture, and values give light to current experiences and are discussed throughout therapy.
My areas of expertise include treating symptoms and disorders that impact the way we experience emotions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, psychosis, interpersonal distress, and life transitions.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with 15 years of experience providing individual and group therapy services to adults (in-person and telehealth sessions). I approach therapy from the perspective that you are the expert of your experiences and I am a resource to help you effectively navigate your life. We will work together to identify treatment targets and develop a plan for care. The focus of our sessions and the skills we discuss will be guided by your personal wellness goals. Aspects of your past, personal identities, culture, and values give light to current experiences and are discussed throughout therapy.
(206) 207-4980 View (206) 207-4980
Photo of Samantha Holsather, LMHC, Counselor
Samantha Holsather
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98144
I work with individuals dealing with trauma, bipolar, and self-esteem.
Do you feel broken? Do you struggle to feel connected and present in relationships? Are you often stuck in numbness or struggle with intense emotions and don't know how to cope? You long to decrease the daily distress you experience and I can help you get there. I help people move from surviving to thriving. I am successful at what I do and I can help you become more empowered to improve your mental health and your relationships.
I work with individuals dealing with trauma, bipolar, and self-esteem.
Do you feel broken? Do you struggle to feel connected and present in relationships? Are you often stuck in numbness or struggle with intense emotions and don't know how to cope? You long to decrease the daily distress you experience and I can help you get there. I help people move from surviving to thriving. I am successful at what I do and I can help you become more empowered to improve your mental health and your relationships.
(206) 472-1328 View (206) 472-1328
Photo of Priscilla Bey - Priscilla Bey, MSW, LSWAIC, MSW, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Priscilla Bey, MSW, LSWAIC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98112  (Online Only)
My specialties include service to all adults, elders, LGBTQ+, families, and teens who are struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, agoraphobia, substance use, and bipolar I and II.
The ability to communicate and reason are the attributes that set us apart from other species. Active listening is key to understanding and reaching a resolution to the personal barriers that render us as individuals and make us unique.
My specialties include service to all adults, elders, LGBTQ+, families, and teens who are struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, agoraphobia, substance use, and bipolar I and II.
The ability to communicate and reason are the attributes that set us apart from other species. Active listening is key to understanding and reaching a resolution to the personal barriers that render us as individuals and make us unique.
(425) 655-1912 x1 View (425) 655-1912 x1
Photo of Molz Wirtz-Wold, MS, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Molz Wirtz-Wold
Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102
I also specialize in supporting folks with bipolar find and maintain balance and stability.
Accepting clients as of 7/11/24. 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 clients as of 7/11/24. 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
Nicole Kinion
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98133
Not accepting new clients
My background includes working with clients struggling with: bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress, acute trauma response, DV/abuse/sexual assault history, coping with chronic/terminal illness, caregiver stress/fatigue, relationship difficulties, codependence, grief & loss, and substance abuse/addiction issues.
Are you feeling overwhelmed and stuck, unsure how to make life more fulfilling? When stress becomes too much a part of our daily lives it helps to have a space and time in which we can talk through it all with someone who can help us find a new perspective. Counseling is an investment in yourself and your well-being. It can be just what is needed to calm the chaos and find energy and motivation that helps you to move from just getting by to living a full, engaging life.
My background includes working with clients struggling with: bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress, acute trauma response, DV/abuse/sexual assault history, coping with chronic/terminal illness, caregiver stress/fatigue, relationship difficulties, codependence, grief & loss, and substance abuse/addiction issues.
Are you feeling overwhelmed and stuck, unsure how to make life more fulfilling? When stress becomes too much a part of our daily lives it helps to have a space and time in which we can talk through it all with someone who can help us find a new perspective. Counseling is an investment in yourself and your well-being. It can be just what is needed to calm the chaos and find energy and motivation that helps you to move from just getting by to living a full, engaging life.
(425) 600-7192 View (425) 600-7192
Photo of Alexa Hutzenbiler, PsyD, LMHCA, Counselor
Alexa Hutzenbiler
Counselor, PsyD, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98134  (Online Only)
Hi! Thanks for checking out my information - I primarily work with adults with PTSD who struggle with flashbacks, intrusive thoughts, or avoidance behaviors that are impacting their quality of life and relationships with others. In looking at your patterns of thinking, I'll teach you skills to think more flexibly and to move away from feelings of guilt and shame. I also work with people who have diagnoses of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder who may feel scared or uncertain about their diagnosis or symptoms, or in adjusting to a new diagnosis.
Hi! Thanks for checking out my information - I primarily work with adults with PTSD who struggle with flashbacks, intrusive thoughts, or avoidance behaviors that are impacting their quality of life and relationships with others. In looking at your patterns of thinking, I'll teach you skills to think more flexibly and to move away from feelings of guilt and shame. I also work with people who have diagnoses of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder who may feel scared or uncertain about their diagnosis or symptoms, or in adjusting to a new diagnosis.
(206) 887-9304 View (206) 887-9304
Photo of Michelle Solomon, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Solomon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98118
Are you struggling to achieve work-life balance as someone with bipolar disorder or in a high stress job? Do you feel exhausted and overwhelmed trying to manage your mood or stressors of daily life? If you've had difficulty prioritizing your needs and happiness and want more skills to help you relax, now might be the time to reach out to a therapist. You're ready to advocate and put yourself first. You crave balance in your routine and want to learn how to set healthy boundaries so you can find time to take a break. Let's work together to rediscover joy and pleasure in your life once again. I'm here to help you each step of the way.
Are you struggling to achieve work-life balance as someone with bipolar disorder or in a high stress job? Do you feel exhausted and overwhelmed trying to manage your mood or stressors of daily life? If you've had difficulty prioritizing your needs and happiness and want more skills to help you relax, now might be the time to reach out to a therapist. You're ready to advocate and put yourself first. You crave balance in your routine and want to learn how to set healthy boundaries so you can find time to take a break. Let's work together to rediscover joy and pleasure in your life once again. I'm here to help you each step of the way.
(206) 752-3559 View (206) 752-3559
Photo of David Shirk, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David Shirk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Washington State. I've been working for 25 years with people struggling with mental health issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar, and personality disorders. I help people with stress, relationships, and finding meaning in their life.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Washington State. I've been working for 25 years with people struggling with mental health issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar, and personality disorders. I help people with stress, relationships, and finding meaning in their life.
(206) 736-1008 View (206) 736-1008
Photo of Grant Thornley, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Grant Thornley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98108
My usual clients are adults seeking positive change who are willing to do introspective work to get there. My clinical work includes depression, anxiety, trauma, & bipolar. I also help clients with communications, relationships, and boundary issues. My "niches" include: young adults who are experiencing difficulty launching: LGBTQIA+ folks (I ID as a gay cis male) ; trans clients before, during, and after transition; creatives like authors songwriters; corporate workers (esp high tech, I’m a former Microsoftie). I am kink- and polyamory-affirming and work with couples and polycules. I have many nerd clients (I'm a nerd myself.
My usual clients are adults seeking positive change who are willing to do introspective work to get there. My clinical work includes depression, anxiety, trauma, & bipolar. I also help clients with communications, relationships, and boundary issues. My "niches" include: young adults who are experiencing difficulty launching: LGBTQIA+ folks (I ID as a gay cis male) ; trans clients before, during, and after transition; creatives like authors songwriters; corporate workers (esp high tech, I’m a former Microsoftie). I am kink- and polyamory-affirming and work with couples and polycules. I have many nerd clients (I'm a nerd myself.
(855) 842-0126 View (855) 842-0126
Photo of Makiko Guji, PsyD, Psychologist
Makiko Guji
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101
Waitlist for new clients
I am experienced in treating mood disorders (depression, bipolar disorder), and anxiety disorders including GAD, OCD and PTSD.
As you are in the process of looking for a therapist, you may already be half-way through resolving your issues. It is said that client's readiness and willingness to make changes is the strongest indicator of successful therapy outcome. As a therapist, I will accompany you in the journey of actualizing your fullest potential by assisting you to develop internal and external resources such as the sense of freedom, choices, healthy sense of self, responsibility, managing life balance, and strong support systems and relationships.
I am experienced in treating mood disorders (depression, bipolar disorder), and anxiety disorders including GAD, OCD and PTSD.
As you are in the process of looking for a therapist, you may already be half-way through resolving your issues. It is said that client's readiness and willingness to make changes is the strongest indicator of successful therapy outcome. As a therapist, I will accompany you in the journey of actualizing your fullest potential by assisting you to develop internal and external resources such as the sense of freedom, choices, healthy sense of self, responsibility, managing life balance, and strong support systems and relationships.
(206) 370-4237 View (206) 370-4237
Photo of Binit Kaur Mehta, MSc, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Binit Kaur Mehta
Counselor, MSc, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98108  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Are you at a crossroads in your life? Do you have relationship challenges? Are you trying to clarify your identity and values? Are you adjusting to a new reality in your life - maybe a culture change, a new life stage? Are you struggling with anxiety, looking for guidance as you navigate current challenges and stressors? I have a decade of experience supporting folks through such struggles. Additionally, I can support you through severe mental health issues like anxiety, depression, insomnia, bipolar, ADHD, trauma, and more. Let's talk!
Are you at a crossroads in your life? Do you have relationship challenges? Are you trying to clarify your identity and values? Are you adjusting to a new reality in your life - maybe a culture change, a new life stage? Are you struggling with anxiety, looking for guidance as you navigate current challenges and stressors? I have a decade of experience supporting folks through such struggles. Additionally, I can support you through severe mental health issues like anxiety, depression, insomnia, bipolar, ADHD, trauma, and more. Let's talk!
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Photo of William Norton Dowd - Will Dowd Counseling Services, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Will Dowd Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98109
Hi, I'm Will. I'm glad you are here. Seeking help can be overwhelming when you are struggling just to get through the day. I hope to make the process a little easier for you. I have lots of experience working with all kinds of people suffering from depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, unwanted substance use, bipolar disorder, relationship issues and more. You want to feel better, to stop worrying about the future and rehashing the past, to move through what keeps you stuck in distress, to feel freedom, and some measure of peace. I am confident that therapy can help.
Hi, I'm Will. I'm glad you are here. Seeking help can be overwhelming when you are struggling just to get through the day. I hope to make the process a little easier for you. I have lots of experience working with all kinds of people suffering from depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, unwanted substance use, bipolar disorder, relationship issues and more. You want to feel better, to stop worrying about the future and rehashing the past, to move through what keeps you stuck in distress, to feel freedom, and some measure of peace. I am confident that therapy can help.
(206) 312-2326 View (206) 312-2326
Photo of Emily Taylor - Emily Taylor Counseling, MA, LMHC, SUDP, Counselor
Emily Taylor Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHC, SUDP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104
I have experience with the following issues: depression, suicidality, and/or self-harm behaviors, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, insomnia, disordered eating, anger, relational strife, family of origin issues, sexual trauma, addiction recovery, anxiety, obssesive compulsive disorder, LGBTQ and sexual identity issues, and systems of oppression.
I am a queer relational psychotherapist with a focus of working with the LGBT/Queer community. I work primarily with folks in the queer/trans/poly/kink community. Whether you want to use therapy to talk specifically about issues related to these identities or just want a space where you don't have to define a lot of terms, I could be a good fit. I tend to work with folks on relationship issues, gender transitions, long term trauma, managing mental health diagnoses (like biploar) and substance use issues. My official training is in psychodynamic relational therapy, which is a depth-orientated way of working.
I have experience with the following issues: depression, suicidality, and/or self-harm behaviors, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, insomnia, disordered eating, anger, relational strife, family of origin issues, sexual trauma, addiction recovery, anxiety, obssesive compulsive disorder, LGBTQ and sexual identity issues, and systems of oppression.
I am a queer relational psychotherapist with a focus of working with the LGBT/Queer community. I work primarily with folks in the queer/trans/poly/kink community. Whether you want to use therapy to talk specifically about issues related to these identities or just want a space where you don't have to define a lot of terms, I could be a good fit. I tend to work with folks on relationship issues, gender transitions, long term trauma, managing mental health diagnoses (like biploar) and substance use issues. My official training is in psychodynamic relational therapy, which is a depth-orientated way of working.
(206) 222-5368 View (206) 222-5368
Photo of Dwayne Robert Stone, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Dwayne Robert Stone
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
I have expertise in addressing schizophrenia, bipolar, psychosis, and major depressive disorder.
I have been in the behavioral health field for 35 years. I have experience as a counselor, case manager, supervisor in community mental health programs in Oregon, Missouri and Washington. I developed and taught a post-divorce and parenting program. I have spoken to thousands of individuals throughout my career via workshops and seminars on parenting, relationships, and crisis intervention. I have taught Mental Health First Aid courses in Washington and in Hawaii. I believe in the Japanese proverb “Fall seven times, Stand up eight” and strive to keep you standing through difficult situations.
I have expertise in addressing schizophrenia, bipolar, psychosis, and major depressive disorder.
I have been in the behavioral health field for 35 years. I have experience as a counselor, case manager, supervisor in community mental health programs in Oregon, Missouri and Washington. I developed and taught a post-divorce and parenting program. I have spoken to thousands of individuals throughout my career via workshops and seminars on parenting, relationships, and crisis intervention. I have taught Mental Health First Aid courses in Washington and in Hawaii. I believe in the Japanese proverb “Fall seven times, Stand up eight” and strive to keep you standing through difficult situations.
(206) 455-6689 View (206) 455-6689
Photo of Christina M Leiva, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Christina M Leiva
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98109
Not accepting new clients
My expertise encompasses addressing a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, Complex PTSD, and trauma recovery.
In life's journey, many of us encounter unexpected changes that disrupt our sense of joy and purpose, whether it's coping with loss, anxiety, severe depression, or navigating life transitions. As your therapist, I am committed to fostering an inclusive environment where diversity is not only acknowledged but celebrated. I strive to empower individuals to explore their unique identities and experiences fully. I firmly believe in embracing every facet of your being—the light and the shadow, your strengths, and vulnerabilities.
My expertise encompasses addressing a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, Complex PTSD, and trauma recovery.
In life's journey, many of us encounter unexpected changes that disrupt our sense of joy and purpose, whether it's coping with loss, anxiety, severe depression, or navigating life transitions. As your therapist, I am committed to fostering an inclusive environment where diversity is not only acknowledged but celebrated. I strive to empower individuals to explore their unique identities and experiences fully. I firmly believe in embracing every facet of your being—the light and the shadow, your strengths, and vulnerabilities.
(206) 823-3346 View (206) 823-3346
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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.