Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Kansas City, MO

Photo of Lindsey Costello, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas City, MO
Lindsey Costello
Licensed Professional Counselor, PLPC, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64112
I have experience treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, BPD, and trauma.
I want to create a therapy experience that fits your needs. I know you may be coming from a tough place right now. I’d love to hold space for you and bring healing however I can. You are capable of getting through this and it is so brave to reach out for help in doing that. You don’t deserve the negative things you say to yourself, and I’d like to help you tell a new story. I use a common factors approach with client-centered and trauma-informed elements. My goal is to use my knowledge of integrative counseling techniques to help you create a more stable and fulfilling lifestyle. More info: lcostellocounseling.com
I have experience treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, BPD, and trauma.
I want to create a therapy experience that fits your needs. I know you may be coming from a tough place right now. I’d love to hold space for you and bring healing however I can. You are capable of getting through this and it is so brave to reach out for help in doing that. You don’t deserve the negative things you say to yourself, and I’d like to help you tell a new story. I use a common factors approach with client-centered and trauma-informed elements. My goal is to use my knowledge of integrative counseling techniques to help you create a more stable and fulfilling lifestyle. More info: lcostellocounseling.com
(816) 441-4514 View (816) 441-4514
Photo of Rachael Julstrom, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas City, MO
Rachael Julstrom
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64145
I specialize in treating disorders that have Big Emotions attached to them such as Post-traumatic Stress, Borderline Personality, and BiPolar Disorders.
Book Online 24/7- 14 and older (In-person & Online) Everyone has a story they need to process. Often times when we are not heard it leads to BIG Emotions that do not know where to go. I meet you where you are and work with what is working and build from there.
I specialize in treating disorders that have Big Emotions attached to them such as Post-traumatic Stress, Borderline Personality, and BiPolar Disorders.
Book Online 24/7- 14 and older (In-person & Online) Everyone has a story they need to process. Often times when we are not heard it leads to BIG Emotions that do not know where to go. I meet you where you are and work with what is working and build from there.
(816) 323-8299 View (816) 323-8299
Photo of Luke Partain, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kansas City, MO
Luke Partain
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64131  (Online Only)
I know that finding a competent therapist that you connect with can be tough. I believe I can help. I have worked in outpatient and inpatient hospital settings with younger and older adults. I use a number of different skills found in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to guide therapy. I am currently certified in DBT and Addictions. My clients and I have discussed and worked on issues including addiction, anxiety, bipolar disorder, codependency, depression, dual diagnosis, grief, life transitions, life meaning, relationship/family issues, self-esteem, substance use, trauma, and PTSD.
I know that finding a competent therapist that you connect with can be tough. I believe I can help. I have worked in outpatient and inpatient hospital settings with younger and older adults. I use a number of different skills found in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to guide therapy. I am currently certified in DBT and Addictions. My clients and I have discussed and worked on issues including addiction, anxiety, bipolar disorder, codependency, depression, dual diagnosis, grief, life transitions, life meaning, relationship/family issues, self-esteem, substance use, trauma, and PTSD.
(816) 357-9153 View (816) 357-9153
Photo of Taylor Magruder in Kansas City, MO
Taylor Magruder
MS, PLPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64114
I also have experience working with Bipolar Disorder, OCD, grief, PTSD, body image issues, relationship issues, and life transitions.
I always say its important to go 'therapist shopping', because finding someone who you truly connect with will play a huge part in just how impactful therapy can be for you. Recognizing your need for support and starting therapy can be hard to do, which is why it is my goal to make you feel accepted and empowered as you take these important steps. Whether you are struggling with relationships, people pleasing, self-esteem, or just managing all of the crazy things life throws your way, I am committed to providing a safe space where you feel seen, heard, and understood.
I also have experience working with Bipolar Disorder, OCD, grief, PTSD, body image issues, relationship issues, and life transitions.
I always say its important to go 'therapist shopping', because finding someone who you truly connect with will play a huge part in just how impactful therapy can be for you. Recognizing your need for support and starting therapy can be hard to do, which is why it is my goal to make you feel accepted and empowered as you take these important steps. Whether you are struggling with relationships, people pleasing, self-esteem, or just managing all of the crazy things life throws your way, I am committed to providing a safe space where you feel seen, heard, and understood.
(816) 339-4685 View (816) 339-4685
Photo of Julie Kaufmanschmidt, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas City, MO
Julie Kaufmanschmidt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64114
Welcome! I would love to work with you to improve your life. I've helped many people with personal growth issues. I've seen clients improve from the curve balls life has thrown at them like infidelity, health issues, infertility, and grief. I've helped clients improve their functioning while dealing with severe diagnoses of depression, bipolar and anxiety. Family peace can be restored between parents and children.
Welcome! I would love to work with you to improve your life. I've helped many people with personal growth issues. I've seen clients improve from the curve balls life has thrown at them like infidelity, health issues, infertility, and grief. I've helped clients improve their functioning while dealing with severe diagnoses of depression, bipolar and anxiety. Family peace can be restored between parents and children.
(816) 307-0696 View (816) 307-0696
Photo of Hannah K Peterson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kansas City, MO
Hannah K Peterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64108
Waitlist for new clients
I am a therapist with a social work heart. Helping others learn to love and understand themselves is my favorite part of the job. I diagnose and treat through different types of therapy such as psychotherapy, trauma informed care, DBT, CBT, Grief and Loss, Couples Therapy and numerous strengths perspective approaches. I work with adult patient's who struggle with depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, personality disorders, bipolar disorders and trauma based disorders.
I am a therapist with a social work heart. Helping others learn to love and understand themselves is my favorite part of the job. I diagnose and treat through different types of therapy such as psychotherapy, trauma informed care, DBT, CBT, Grief and Loss, Couples Therapy and numerous strengths perspective approaches. I work with adult patient's who struggle with depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, personality disorders, bipolar disorders and trauma based disorders.
(816) 327-1756 View (816) 327-1756
Photo of Emily J Towner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas City, MO
Emily J Towner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64114
I treat all sorts of mental disorders including depression, anxiety, panic, OCD, PTSD, Adult Aspergers Syndrome, Bipolar Disorder, Substance abuse, relationship and family issues.
Mental health is part of your physical health. You cannot have one without the other. No one is exempt from facing mental health struggles at one time or another in their life. It is not uncommon during times of mental health struggles, either it be an isolated incident of panic, short-term and long-term anxiety, tragedy, situational depression, or circumstances that were out of your control that caused you to have a "new normal." Therapy will alleviate these stressors through a process of personal insight, change, and opening your eyes to a new way of seeing your life and how you react to it.
I treat all sorts of mental disorders including depression, anxiety, panic, OCD, PTSD, Adult Aspergers Syndrome, Bipolar Disorder, Substance abuse, relationship and family issues.
Mental health is part of your physical health. You cannot have one without the other. No one is exempt from facing mental health struggles at one time or another in their life. It is not uncommon during times of mental health struggles, either it be an isolated incident of panic, short-term and long-term anxiety, tragedy, situational depression, or circumstances that were out of your control that caused you to have a "new normal." Therapy will alleviate these stressors through a process of personal insight, change, and opening your eyes to a new way of seeing your life and how you react to it.
(816) 565-4270 View (816) 565-4270
Photo of Alexandra Ross, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas City, MO
Alexandra Ross
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64110
Waitlist for new clients
Hi! I'm Alex, a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Missouri. I utilize a variety of science-based theories and techniques, such as DBT and EMDR, that have been clinically shown to help people change, experience relief from suffering, and improve their lives. I have extensive experience working with trauma, cPTSD and PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Adult Autism, Anxiety, Depression, and Dissociative Identity Disorder. By offering unconditional acceptance and support, I provide a safe space for us to work together so that you can reach your goals.
Hi! I'm Alex, a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Missouri. I utilize a variety of science-based theories and techniques, such as DBT and EMDR, that have been clinically shown to help people change, experience relief from suffering, and improve their lives. I have extensive experience working with trauma, cPTSD and PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Adult Autism, Anxiety, Depression, and Dissociative Identity Disorder. By offering unconditional acceptance and support, I provide a safe space for us to work together so that you can reach your goals.
(816) 200-0582 View (816) 200-0582
Photo of Hailee Bradshaw, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kansas City, MO
Hailee Bradshaw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64110  (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Hailee, a licensed clinical social worker at Small Victories. I work with adults and have experience working with people with anxiety, OCD, depression, bipolar, suicidal ideation, body image and self esteem issues. I aim to provide a safe environment where we can talk about anything you want to bring to the table. I want to support you and encourage you through the healing journey. I use a person centered approach in my therapy sessions and incorporate both CBT and DBT. I will meet you where you are and start the growing journey there.
Hi, I’m Hailee, a licensed clinical social worker at Small Victories. I work with adults and have experience working with people with anxiety, OCD, depression, bipolar, suicidal ideation, body image and self esteem issues. I aim to provide a safe environment where we can talk about anything you want to bring to the table. I want to support you and encourage you through the healing journey. I use a person centered approach in my therapy sessions and incorporate both CBT and DBT. I will meet you where you are and start the growing journey there.
(816) 934-5599 View (816) 934-5599
Photo of Dr. Nadin R Rizk , Psychologist in Kansas City, MO
Dr. Nadin R Rizk [Autism Testing Adhd Testing]
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64110
Examples of psychological evaluations conducted at Rizk Assessment & Psychological Services, LLC (RAPS): Diagnostic Clarification to assess for the presences of depression, OCD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD • ADHD assessment • Autism Spectrum Disorder evaluations • Educational screeners (IQ and Achievement) • Personality assessments •.
Dr. Nadin Rizk specializes in conducting psychological evaluations with adults, adolescents, children, and toddlers who are exhibiting signs of Autism using the gold standard for diagnosing Autism, the ADOS-2.
Examples of psychological evaluations conducted at Rizk Assessment & Psychological Services, LLC (RAPS): Diagnostic Clarification to assess for the presences of depression, OCD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD • ADHD assessment • Autism Spectrum Disorder evaluations • Educational screeners (IQ and Achievement) • Personality assessments •.
Dr. Nadin Rizk specializes in conducting psychological evaluations with adults, adolescents, children, and toddlers who are exhibiting signs of Autism using the gold standard for diagnosing Autism, the ADOS-2.
(816) 693-6726 View (816) 693-6726
Photo of Nicholas JORDAN, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas City, MO
Nicholas JORDAN
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64110
My areas of expertise are trauma and ptsd, chronic illness and physical disabilities, chronic pain, stress, substance use or addiction, and mood disorders (depression, anxiety, bipolar, etc.). I am a secular therapist and provide telehealth services throughout Missouri and in person services in Kansas City, MO. Additionally, I have experience in working on burnout, existential, identity, and career concerns. I also have extensive experience working with other helping or health professionals including other therapists, nurses, social workers, among a variety of other clinicians.
My areas of expertise are trauma and ptsd, chronic illness and physical disabilities, chronic pain, stress, substance use or addiction, and mood disorders (depression, anxiety, bipolar, etc.). I am a secular therapist and provide telehealth services throughout Missouri and in person services in Kansas City, MO. Additionally, I have experience in working on burnout, existential, identity, and career concerns. I also have extensive experience working with other helping or health professionals including other therapists, nurses, social workers, among a variety of other clinicians.
(816) 319-0784 View (816) 319-0784
Photo of Jerald Payne, LSCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kansas City, MO
Jerald Payne, LSCSW, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64111
I work with individuals, couples and families on such issues as relationship issues, problem solving, conflict resolution, communication enhancement, anger management, drug/alcohol abuse and addiction. Many clients present with depression, bipolar disorder and other mood disorders, psychotic disorders, ADHD, childhood disorders such as conduct disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, etc. I work with adults and couples on relationship/marital issues, domestic violence, etc. I work with clients who have experienced abuse, both sexual and physical. I assist parents with parent-child relational issues and behavior modification skill development. I also assist clients with anxiety disorders, grief/loss issues and struggles with adjusting to life circumstances.
I work with individuals, couples and families on such issues as relationship issues, problem solving, conflict resolution, communication enhancement, anger management, drug/alcohol abuse and addiction. Many clients present with depression, bipolar disorder and other mood disorders, psychotic disorders, ADHD, childhood disorders such as conduct disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, etc. I work with adults and couples on relationship/marital issues, domestic violence, etc. I work with clients who have experienced abuse, both sexual and physical. I assist parents with parent-child relational issues and behavior modification skill development. I also assist clients with anxiety disorders, grief/loss issues and struggles with adjusting to life circumstances.
(816) 839-9448 View (816) 839-9448
Photo of Mary Marshall, Psychologist in Kansas City, MO
Mary Marshall
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64111  (Online Only)
Dr. Marshall offers an empowering interactive process in a confidential relaxed setting designed to help you move through the stages of change and address underlying issues, not just symptoms. Natural holistic healing, cognitive behavioral therapy, nutrition, skill building, education, stress reduction-management can be part of your treatment plan focused on concerns causing you distress that can result from dysfunctional personal or work relationships, victimization, divorce and blended family, anger mismanagement, addictive behavior, toxic environments, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, bipolar, other disorders or health conditions, low self-esteem, trauma, social phobia, or performance anxiety.
Dr. Marshall offers an empowering interactive process in a confidential relaxed setting designed to help you move through the stages of change and address underlying issues, not just symptoms. Natural holistic healing, cognitive behavioral therapy, nutrition, skill building, education, stress reduction-management can be part of your treatment plan focused on concerns causing you distress that can result from dysfunctional personal or work relationships, victimization, divorce and blended family, anger mismanagement, addictive behavior, toxic environments, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, bipolar, other disorders or health conditions, low self-esteem, trauma, social phobia, or performance anxiety.
(913) 439-5115 View (913) 439-5115
Photo of Peter Kilbreth Jones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kansas City, MO
Peter Kilbreth Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64132
Waitlist for new clients
Extensive experience working with clients who have a traumatic brain injury (TBI), schizophrenic disorders, bipolar disorders, anxiety and depression, anger management, impulse control, alcoholism, relapse prevention, marital issues including divorce, those facing legal issues, Financial problems, eating disorders, and guardianship guidance.
I work with individuals who have a desire for change with their mental health or are seeking quality of life improvements. Clients who are seeking to improve their lives and are seeking positive change or consultation. Clients issues can range from mental health needs, relationship issues, personal issues, medical disorders or problem-solving life issues. Clients desire long-term or short term change for the issues they are facing. Accountability for goals, desire for change, seek to problem solve, by learning coping strategies or finding solutions to satisfy one’s self-determination.
Extensive experience working with clients who have a traumatic brain injury (TBI), schizophrenic disorders, bipolar disorders, anxiety and depression, anger management, impulse control, alcoholism, relapse prevention, marital issues including divorce, those facing legal issues, Financial problems, eating disorders, and guardianship guidance.
I work with individuals who have a desire for change with their mental health or are seeking quality of life improvements. Clients who are seeking to improve their lives and are seeking positive change or consultation. Clients issues can range from mental health needs, relationship issues, personal issues, medical disorders or problem-solving life issues. Clients desire long-term or short term change for the issues they are facing. Accountability for goals, desire for change, seek to problem solve, by learning coping strategies or finding solutions to satisfy one’s self-determination.
(913) 379-2016 View (913) 379-2016
Photo of Reshma Freeman, Counselor in Kansas City, MO
Reshma Freeman
Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64134
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! Thank you for having the courage to seek a therapist! I work with individuals who have experienced mild to severe levels of trauma with a single diagnosis to comorbid diagnoses, such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder , Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Bipolar 1 Disorder, Anxiety Disorder, Borderline Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder, Attention Hyperactive Deficit Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, etc. Their needs are to be listened to, validated, and understood. They want to feel genuinely accepted. They want to live life to the fullest. Their goals are to receive the care needed to assist with improving quality of life.
Welcome! Thank you for having the courage to seek a therapist! I work with individuals who have experienced mild to severe levels of trauma with a single diagnosis to comorbid diagnoses, such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder , Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Bipolar 1 Disorder, Anxiety Disorder, Borderline Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder, Attention Hyperactive Deficit Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, etc. Their needs are to be listened to, validated, and understood. They want to feel genuinely accepted. They want to live life to the fullest. Their goals are to receive the care needed to assist with improving quality of life.
(913) 675-2231 View (913) 675-2231
Photo of Dave Woodard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kansas City, MO
Dave Woodard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64101  (Online Only)
My experience spans across various mental health conditions, including depression, Bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and personality disorders such as BPD.
Professional Counseling Services in Missouri: In today's fast-paced world, we all need a support system to navigate life's challenges. When the support from family and friends isn't enough, seeking professional counseling can make a significant difference. Anxiety, stress, and chronic illnesses can take a toll on our mental well-being, leading to feelings of depression and making life more challenging than necessary. About Me: I am a dedicated counselor with a passion for helping individuals find their balance, strength, and purpose, with a Master of Social Work degree from Washington University earned in 2004.
My experience spans across various mental health conditions, including depression, Bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and personality disorders such as BPD.
Professional Counseling Services in Missouri: In today's fast-paced world, we all need a support system to navigate life's challenges. When the support from family and friends isn't enough, seeking professional counseling can make a significant difference. Anxiety, stress, and chronic illnesses can take a toll on our mental well-being, leading to feelings of depression and making life more challenging than necessary. About Me: I am a dedicated counselor with a passion for helping individuals find their balance, strength, and purpose, with a Master of Social Work degree from Washington University earned in 2004.
(314) 938-2797 View (314) 938-2797
Photo of Curtis Denham, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas City, MO
Curtis Denham
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64101  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor licensed in Missouri. I have been working with clients for 17+ years. I have a varied background including working with those that suffer from substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, life adjustment issues such as disability and retirement. I've also worked with many clients over the years that have suffered trauma related to abuse.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor licensed in Missouri. I have been working with clients for 17+ years. I have a varied background including working with those that suffer from substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, life adjustment issues such as disability and retirement. I've also worked with many clients over the years that have suffered trauma related to abuse.
(636) 638-0225 View (636) 638-0225
Photo of Rachel Stritt in Kansas City, MO
Rachel Stritt
MS, LMLP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64101
I work with people of all ages, including those who struggle with ADHD, Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety, and more.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! I am a therapist with Jordan Psychological Center in Overland Park and am currently accepting new clients with little wait time! Mental health is my greatest passion, and I feel so fortunate to be able to serve the needs of this community.
I work with people of all ages, including those who struggle with ADHD, Depression, Bipolar, Anxiety, and more.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! I am a therapist with Jordan Psychological Center in Overland Park and am currently accepting new clients with little wait time! Mental health is my greatest passion, and I feel so fortunate to be able to serve the needs of this community.
(913) 647-7990 View (913) 647-7990
Photo of Emmogene Chepely, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas City, MO
Emmogene Chepely
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64112  (Online Only)
My name is Emmogene (Emma) Chepely, and I’m glad you’re here. I would be honored to help you take the important step toward a better life. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) licensed in Missouri and based in the St. Louis area, and I have over 6 years experience treating trauma, addiction, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, life changes, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia spectrum disorders, and LGBTQ+. I use an eclectic and personalized approach in order to provide a safe, welcoming, and comfortable environment which fosters growth and learning. I work to build a connection with no shame or judgement.
My name is Emmogene (Emma) Chepely, and I’m glad you’re here. I would be honored to help you take the important step toward a better life. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) licensed in Missouri and based in the St. Louis area, and I have over 6 years experience treating trauma, addiction, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, life changes, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia spectrum disorders, and LGBTQ+. I use an eclectic and personalized approach in order to provide a safe, welcoming, and comfortable environment which fosters growth and learning. I work to build a connection with no shame or judgement.
(636) 245-0180 View (636) 245-0180
Photo of Soothing Hearts Counseling Services, LLC, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Kansas City, MO
Soothing Hearts Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64114
I am a seasoned therapist who is empathic and knowledgeable. I am devoted to helping people through difficult times. I help people learn to better manage their depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar and other mental health needs. I assist people working through troubled relationships with family, friends and partners. I support and guide people through the aftermath of abusive relationships. You can be yourself, free of judgements and biases, allowed to share your thoughts unfiltered and without worry of being offensive or ostracized. You can work through your problems and feel a change within yourself, happier and freer.
I am a seasoned therapist who is empathic and knowledgeable. I am devoted to helping people through difficult times. I help people learn to better manage their depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar and other mental health needs. I assist people working through troubled relationships with family, friends and partners. I support and guide people through the aftermath of abusive relationships. You can be yourself, free of judgements and biases, allowed to share your thoughts unfiltered and without worry of being offensive or ostracized. You can work through your problems and feel a change within yourself, happier and freer.
(913) 246-5749 View (913) 246-5749

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.