Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Winston Salem, NC

Photo of Aileen Lassiter, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Aileen Lassiter
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103
I offer counseling for Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, and women's issues. Because I understand that life goes on despite our thoughts and feelings, I feel it's important to be a guide and a soundboard to help you address your issues head-on while maintaining and sustaining new and better habits of self-care, mindfulness, emotion regulation, interpersonal effectiveness and distress tolerance.
I offer counseling for Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, and women's issues. Because I understand that life goes on despite our thoughts and feelings, I feel it's important to be a guide and a soundboard to help you address your issues head-on while maintaining and sustaining new and better habits of self-care, mindfulness, emotion regulation, interpersonal effectiveness and distress tolerance.
(336) 276-2891 View (336) 276-2891
Photo of Esther Mendez, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Esther Mendez
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, CRC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27107
Personal power is necessary when bad things happen to good people. With over 18 years of experience in the mental health field, I've worked with individuals of all ages and their families. So whether it's the end of a marriage or a job; PTSD; depression or the roller coaster of ADHD, Bipolar Disorders, Behavioral Addictions and more, I'm here to help you step through the door of your "old" normal and into improved personal power and an increased sense of personal success that will become your "new" normal with a happier, healthier life.
Personal power is necessary when bad things happen to good people. With over 18 years of experience in the mental health field, I've worked with individuals of all ages and their families. So whether it's the end of a marriage or a job; PTSD; depression or the roller coaster of ADHD, Bipolar Disorders, Behavioral Addictions and more, I'm here to help you step through the door of your "old" normal and into improved personal power and an increased sense of personal success that will become your "new" normal with a happier, healthier life.
(336) 814-9297 View (336) 814-9297
Photo of Salem Counseling & Consulting, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Salem Counseling & Consulting, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103  (Online Only)
As a whole, we are trained in the treatment of trauma including social justice and generational/systemic racism, insomnia, EMDR, anxiety, OCD, phobias, depression, bipolar disorder, and attachment issues.
Salem Counseling and Consulting, PLLC provides teletherapy to North Carolina, Vermont, and Florida. We participate in the Clear Pricing Provider Network with BCBS, therefore some BCBS members have a $0 copay. Our practice consists of therapists that address a variety of needs. We are welcoming to all beliefs, from Atheist to Wiccan, Christian to Muslim, and everything in between. We are an LGBTQIA+ affirming practice and our goal is for anyone and everyone to feel honored and safe when seeking therapy with us. Our Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy provider offers in-person KAP sessions in Winston-salem.
As a whole, we are trained in the treatment of trauma including social justice and generational/systemic racism, insomnia, EMDR, anxiety, OCD, phobias, depression, bipolar disorder, and attachment issues.
Salem Counseling and Consulting, PLLC provides teletherapy to North Carolina, Vermont, and Florida. We participate in the Clear Pricing Provider Network with BCBS, therefore some BCBS members have a $0 copay. Our practice consists of therapists that address a variety of needs. We are welcoming to all beliefs, from Atheist to Wiccan, Christian to Muslim, and everything in between. We are an LGBTQIA+ affirming practice and our goal is for anyone and everyone to feel honored and safe when seeking therapy with us. Our Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy provider offers in-person KAP sessions in Winston-salem.
(980) 223-3997 View (980) 223-3997
Photo of Knew Era Consulting, PLLC (Counseling & DWI Tx), Licensed Professional Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Knew Era Consulting, PLLC (Counseling & DWI Tx)
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, CCSI, MAC, CSOTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27107
Waitlist for new clients
I provide outpatient treatment for individuals with mental health diagnoses (depression, anxiety, ADHD, ODD, PTSD, personality disorder, bipolar, schizophrenia, etc.
My name is Brandon Lowe and I'm a dually licensed therapist. I am the owner of Knew Era Consulting PLLC behavioral health agency where my staff and I provide therapeutic services. I have both LCMHC (Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor) and LCAS (Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist) licensures. I specialize in mental health, addictions (substance abuse), and sex offender treatment (Certified Sex Offender Treatment Professional, CSOTP). I have been in the Mental Health field since 2006 (15 years). My staff provides therapy in both English and Spanish.
I provide outpatient treatment for individuals with mental health diagnoses (depression, anxiety, ADHD, ODD, PTSD, personality disorder, bipolar, schizophrenia, etc.
My name is Brandon Lowe and I'm a dually licensed therapist. I am the owner of Knew Era Consulting PLLC behavioral health agency where my staff and I provide therapeutic services. I have both LCMHC (Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor) and LCAS (Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist) licensures. I specialize in mental health, addictions (substance abuse), and sex offender treatment (Certified Sex Offender Treatment Professional, CSOTP). I have been in the Mental Health field since 2006 (15 years). My staff provides therapy in both English and Spanish.
(336) 203-8716 View (336) 203-8716
Photo of Pittman Consulting & Professional Service, PLLCs, Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Pittman Consulting & Professional Service, PLLCs
Counselor, LPCS, LCAS, CSI
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27106
I have been in the mental health and substance abuse field for over 20 years. I have worked with clients with a variety of needs ranging from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and substance abuse issues. I work with children, adolescent and adult populations. I am a DWI provider and substance abuse professional as well.
I have been in the mental health and substance abuse field for over 20 years. I have worked with clients with a variety of needs ranging from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and substance abuse issues. I work with children, adolescent and adult populations. I am a DWI provider and substance abuse professional as well.
(336) 656-2279 View (336) 656-2279
Photo of Deidre Montgomery, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winston Salem, NC
Deidre Montgomery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27101
Outside of my focus areas, I have experience working with bipolar disorder, substance use, depression, grief, trauma, borderline personality disorder, chronic illness/pain, children, teens, young adults, older adults, and low-income.
Seeking therapeutic counseling can be challenging for any number of reasons, from being ready to take the first step on your mental health journey to finding a therapist that's right for you. Wherever you are on your path, I aim to provide a comforting, non-judgmental environment where you feel heard, valued, and comfortable being yourself. Therapy is collaborative work with your goals as the focus. The number of different therapeutic treatments out there may be overwhelming, but I can help you find what works. No matter who you are, I will work with you to reach your next step and grow while you decide what we are working towards.
Outside of my focus areas, I have experience working with bipolar disorder, substance use, depression, grief, trauma, borderline personality disorder, chronic illness/pain, children, teens, young adults, older adults, and low-income.
Seeking therapeutic counseling can be challenging for any number of reasons, from being ready to take the first step on your mental health journey to finding a therapist that's right for you. Wherever you are on your path, I aim to provide a comforting, non-judgmental environment where you feel heard, valued, and comfortable being yourself. Therapy is collaborative work with your goals as the focus. The number of different therapeutic treatments out there may be overwhelming, but I can help you find what works. No matter who you are, I will work with you to reach your next step and grow while you decide what we are working towards.
(336) 396-5798 View (336) 396-5798
Photo of Donna P. Dunlap, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Donna P. Dunlap
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Areas of expertise: women's issues, adolescent issues, sexual & other trauma, anxiety/OCD/phobias, and mood disorders (depression/bipolar).
You've just taken the first step in a journey to the New Life you deserve. The thought of finding a counselor you trust, feel safe and comfortable with can be a little scary, but so is the alternative: living with frustration, pain, fear and confusion...with no end in sight. I'm always amazed at the courage of my clients as they move from a painful existence to one of hope & joy and with confidence that they have the tools needed to create the life they want. Don't wait another day. Your New Life is waiting!
Areas of expertise: women's issues, adolescent issues, sexual & other trauma, anxiety/OCD/phobias, and mood disorders (depression/bipolar).
You've just taken the first step in a journey to the New Life you deserve. The thought of finding a counselor you trust, feel safe and comfortable with can be a little scary, but so is the alternative: living with frustration, pain, fear and confusion...with no end in sight. I'm always amazed at the courage of my clients as they move from a painful existence to one of hope & joy and with confidence that they have the tools needed to create the life they want. Don't wait another day. Your New Life is waiting!
(336) 447-7610 View (336) 447-7610
Photo of Dr. Richard Adlin, Psychologist in Winston Salem, NC
Dr. Richard Adlin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27101
I work with the full range of problems: anxiety, depression, compulsions, addictions, relationships, confidence, motivation, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, ADHD, trouble coping with stress, loss, and trauma, etc.
26 year private practice specializing in psychotherapy grounded in theory and research on treatment, relationships, child development, and disorders. I'm committed to those I work with, open to all walks of life, and I listen closely with curiosity. I work to help you identify deep emotional blind spots to make sense of the troubles you are having. Discovering the deeper roots of the problems and symptoms you are having will not only give you a different perspective of the obstacles and trauma in your life, it will help reduce emotional pain, and help you feel more control in your life.
I work with the full range of problems: anxiety, depression, compulsions, addictions, relationships, confidence, motivation, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, ADHD, trouble coping with stress, loss, and trauma, etc.
26 year private practice specializing in psychotherapy grounded in theory and research on treatment, relationships, child development, and disorders. I'm committed to those I work with, open to all walks of life, and I listen closely with curiosity. I work to help you identify deep emotional blind spots to make sense of the troubles you are having. Discovering the deeper roots of the problems and symptoms you are having will not only give you a different perspective of the obstacles and trauma in your life, it will help reduce emotional pain, and help you feel more control in your life.
(865) 558-0569 View (865) 558-0569
Photo of Jerrica Royal, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Jerrica Royal
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27102  (Online Only)
Are you experiencing changes that are inducing anxiety within your professional and personal relationships? Perhaps you are seeking answers to the many curve balls life throws our way? Depression, trauma, grief & loss, divorce, anxiety, relationship conflicts, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and self-image issues are all mental disorders that can cause an individual to feel a loss of control.
Are you experiencing changes that are inducing anxiety within your professional and personal relationships? Perhaps you are seeking answers to the many curve balls life throws our way? Depression, trauma, grief & loss, divorce, anxiety, relationship conflicts, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and self-image issues are all mental disorders that can cause an individual to feel a loss of control.
(336) 656-2855 View (336) 656-2855
Photo of Peaceful Minds NC, LLC, LCSW Associate in Winston Salem, NC
Peaceful Minds NC, LLC
LCSW Associate , LCSWA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27107  (Online Only)
My areas of experience and expertise: Depression, Anxiety, OCD, Bipolar, Trauma, Grief, Self-Esteem and Relationships.
I have committed the last 27 years of my life to the mental health field working with adolescents and adults in a variety of settings. I provide quality care to enhance client’s life, make a difference and put a stop to negative debilitating thoughts. I provide a client centered approach; promoting an empathetic, safe and non-judgmental environment for clients to feel comfortable sharing their inner thoughts and feelings. One of the goals of therapy is to help clients achieve growth and relief from day-to-day struggles. I will assist clients in finding strengths within themselves by teaching positive coping skills and more.
My areas of experience and expertise: Depression, Anxiety, OCD, Bipolar, Trauma, Grief, Self-Esteem and Relationships.
I have committed the last 27 years of my life to the mental health field working with adolescents and adults in a variety of settings. I provide quality care to enhance client’s life, make a difference and put a stop to negative debilitating thoughts. I provide a client centered approach; promoting an empathetic, safe and non-judgmental environment for clients to feel comfortable sharing their inner thoughts and feelings. One of the goals of therapy is to help clients achieve growth and relief from day-to-day struggles. I will assist clients in finding strengths within themselves by teaching positive coping skills and more.
(336) 438-8076 View (336) 438-8076
Photo of Marissa Salvitti, LPC Intern in Winston Salem, NC
Marissa Salvitti
LPC Intern, BA, QP, NCCPSS
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27101
Waitlist for new clients
I am a therapist intern and Wake Forest University graduate student with extensive experience supporting individuals in crisis management, psychoeducation, and therapeutic interventions with such issues as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, family issues, LGBTQ+ issues, and life transitions. I approach each client with empathy and compassion while helping them explore the connection between past and present events to identify potential solutions to problems, find balance in their lives, and move toward becoming their ideal selves.
I am a therapist intern and Wake Forest University graduate student with extensive experience supporting individuals in crisis management, psychoeducation, and therapeutic interventions with such issues as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, family issues, LGBTQ+ issues, and life transitions. I approach each client with empathy and compassion while helping them explore the connection between past and present events to identify potential solutions to problems, find balance in their lives, and move toward becoming their ideal selves.
(336) 933-6927 View (336) 933-6927
Photo of Battlefield Counseling , Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Battlefield Counseling
Counselor, LCMHC, CRC, LCAS, MBA, MS
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27101
I specialize in mental health, trauma, substance abuse, and co-occurring disorders. I am Certified in EMDR which we use to process memories that may trigger a trauma response or the desire to use drugs. Some of our Trauma/PTSD processing has included Sexual Assault, Grief, Domestic Volience, In the line of Duty-Service Workers, TBI, and the loss of Employment. I work with clients with Depression, PTSD, Anxiety, Bipolar, and Schizophrenia. My approach is tailored to you and your specific needs. What I have learned through life experiences is that overcoming these battles can be easier when you are not walking alone down the path.
I specialize in mental health, trauma, substance abuse, and co-occurring disorders. I am Certified in EMDR which we use to process memories that may trigger a trauma response or the desire to use drugs. Some of our Trauma/PTSD processing has included Sexual Assault, Grief, Domestic Volience, In the line of Duty-Service Workers, TBI, and the loss of Employment. I work with clients with Depression, PTSD, Anxiety, Bipolar, and Schizophrenia. My approach is tailored to you and your specific needs. What I have learned through life experiences is that overcoming these battles can be easier when you are not walking alone down the path.
(336) 360-5941 View (336) 360-5941
Photo of Ventre Counseling Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Ventre Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Currently accepting new clients and most major insurance companies. I provide a safe, non-judgemental place for you to discuss past and/or current issues that cause ongoing distress, inhibiting you from enjoying daily life activities that you used to love doing. We will work together to stop those racing, ongoing thoughts that make you worry, feel anxious and keep you up at night.
Currently accepting new clients and most major insurance companies. I provide a safe, non-judgemental place for you to discuss past and/or current issues that cause ongoing distress, inhibiting you from enjoying daily life activities that you used to love doing. We will work together to stop those racing, ongoing thoughts that make you worry, feel anxious and keep you up at night.
(336) 891-3356 View (336) 891-3356
Photo of Brittany Johnson Todd in Winston Salem, NC
Brittany Johnson Todd
MSEd, NCC, LCMHC, CFMHE, CCCE
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103
My mission behind B Balanced Counseling and Wellness is about creating balance in life through wellness of the mind, body and soul for people of all ages and backgrounds. Each client is treated as an individual; therefore, therapy approaches vary depending on the client’s needs. At B Balanced Counseling my team offers a full spectrum of care. Our services consist of but are not limited to Individual/ Couples/Family Counseling, Therapeutic Consulting, Clinical Interventions, Life Coaching, Workplace Wellness Consulting, legal Mitigation, Art Therapy, Nutrition/ Dietitian, Athlete Special Programs, and Community Outreach & Service.
My mission behind B Balanced Counseling and Wellness is about creating balance in life through wellness of the mind, body and soul for people of all ages and backgrounds. Each client is treated as an individual; therefore, therapy approaches vary depending on the client’s needs. At B Balanced Counseling my team offers a full spectrum of care. Our services consist of but are not limited to Individual/ Couples/Family Counseling, Therapeutic Consulting, Clinical Interventions, Life Coaching, Workplace Wellness Consulting, legal Mitigation, Art Therapy, Nutrition/ Dietitian, Athlete Special Programs, and Community Outreach & Service.
(336) 276-2467 View (336) 276-2467
Photo of Wilsons Counseling and Consulting Services, PLLC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Wilsons Counseling and Consulting Services, PLLC
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MSW, LCASA, CEO
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27101
I am Nate Wilson, Jr., MSW, LCAS. I am a Licensed Clinical Addiction Psychotherapist, Specialist. I’ve been in the field of mental health for over 25 years. I’ve worked with various people from various backgrounds as it relates to cultural diversity such as race, gender, religion, ethnicity, and other distinct groups, each of which has different values and lifestyles. I earned my Master of Clinical Social Work from Fordham University, NYC, NY. I have been practicing in a licensed capacity since 2016. As a therapist, I use eclectic therapy approaches that cover many theories.
I am Nate Wilson, Jr., MSW, LCAS. I am a Licensed Clinical Addiction Psychotherapist, Specialist. I’ve been in the field of mental health for over 25 years. I’ve worked with various people from various backgrounds as it relates to cultural diversity such as race, gender, religion, ethnicity, and other distinct groups, each of which has different values and lifestyles. I earned my Master of Clinical Social Work from Fordham University, NYC, NY. I have been practicing in a licensed capacity since 2016. As a therapist, I use eclectic therapy approaches that cover many theories.
(336) 502-8218 View (336) 502-8218
Photo of Susanne Palmer, Psychologist in Winston Salem, NC
Susanne Palmer
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27106
I utilize a collaborative and present-focused approach to help clients learn how to effect immediate change in their lives. I treat an array of mental health concerns via cognitive-behavioral and related approaches. My special interests include psychological assessment and treating severe mental illness, personality disorders, and PTSD/trauma.
I utilize a collaborative and present-focused approach to help clients learn how to effect immediate change in their lives. I treat an array of mental health concerns via cognitive-behavioral and related approaches. My special interests include psychological assessment and treating severe mental illness, personality disorders, and PTSD/trauma.
(336) 777-7097 View (336) 777-7097
Photo of Footprints Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Winston Salem, NC
Footprints Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MDiv, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Clients come to me in trying times for help dealing with issues like depression, anxiety, grief issues, and anger issues. I don't see myself as the "expert" who is going to provide all the "answers" but I do promise to walk with my clients as they address the issues we identify together that they want to address in therapy. I am comfortable working with clients individuals, couples and families, and kids (age 9 to adults). I have been theologically trained and can explore spiritual issues and crises as a pastoral counselor, also.
Clients come to me in trying times for help dealing with issues like depression, anxiety, grief issues, and anger issues. I don't see myself as the "expert" who is going to provide all the "answers" but I do promise to walk with my clients as they address the issues we identify together that they want to address in therapy. I am comfortable working with clients individuals, couples and families, and kids (age 9 to adults). I have been theologically trained and can explore spiritual issues and crises as a pastoral counselor, also.
(336) 939-0412 View (336) 939-0412
Photo of Care Essentials, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winston Salem, NC
Care Essentials, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, LPN
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27101
Karen’s passion as a Social Worker is to uplift, inform, empower, and assist "All" clients with creating avenues for success, with a great desire to focus on lower socioeconomic and at-risk populations.
Karen’s passion as a Social Worker is to uplift, inform, empower, and assist "All" clients with creating avenues for success, with a great desire to focus on lower socioeconomic and at-risk populations.
(336) 360-8152 View (336) 360-8152
Photo of Courtney Jones, Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Courtney Jones
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27104  (Online Only)
Courtney Jones is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in the state of North Carolina with over 10 years of experience partnering with children and adults seeking help with depression, anxiety, substance abuse disorders, mood disorders, and self-esteem issues. Courtney completed her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Family Ministry from Lenoir-Rhyne College, and her Master of Arts in Clinical Pastoral Counseling from Ashland Theological Seminary.
Courtney Jones is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in the state of North Carolina with over 10 years of experience partnering with children and adults seeking help with depression, anxiety, substance abuse disorders, mood disorders, and self-esteem issues. Courtney completed her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Family Ministry from Lenoir-Rhyne College, and her Master of Arts in Clinical Pastoral Counseling from Ashland Theological Seminary.
(336) 791-8606 View (336) 791-8606
Photo of Safe Haven Lighthouse Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Safe Haven Lighthouse Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27127  (Online Only)
It is my ethical and moral duty to provide you with services that are person centered and goal oriented. We work as a team together. Therefore, fostering a positive and thriving therapeutic relationship. I received my MS in Rehabilitation Counseling, in May 2007, from Winston-Salem State University in North Carolina and my BA degree in Psychology in May 2004 from Bennett College for Women. I am a fully Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC). I have over 19 years of experience in mental health and have been licensed as a mental health counselor for 10 years.
It is my ethical and moral duty to provide you with services that are person centered and goal oriented. We work as a team together. Therefore, fostering a positive and thriving therapeutic relationship. I received my MS in Rehabilitation Counseling, in May 2007, from Winston-Salem State University in North Carolina and my BA degree in Psychology in May 2004 from Bennett College for Women. I am a fully Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC). I have over 19 years of experience in mental health and have been licensed as a mental health counselor for 10 years.
(336) 850-6401 View (336) 850-6401

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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.