Bipolar Disorder Therapists in Bellevue, WA

Photo of Mary West Brandenburg, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Mary West Brandenburg
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005  (Online Only)
I am well acquainted with the issues of depression/bipolar, anxieties and fears, obsessive compulsive disorder, sexual abuse, healthy sexuality, LGBTQ issues, empty nest, life transitions, grief and loss, recovery, addiction and the brain, codependency, cancer (survivor!), inner child work, conflict and communication issues, divorce, blended and intact families.
When I was a girl there was no one to tell my deepest darkest secrets. My life's work is to be a trusted, healing person to those in pain. My therapy room is many things: a confessional, a delivery room, a crucible, a place of radical honesty with a whole lot of grace. Most of all it is a safe place for you to tell your story, to find strength and hope, to cry, and to heal. I embrace a holistic approach which considers your spirit, mind, body, & community.
I am well acquainted with the issues of depression/bipolar, anxieties and fears, obsessive compulsive disorder, sexual abuse, healthy sexuality, LGBTQ issues, empty nest, life transitions, grief and loss, recovery, addiction and the brain, codependency, cancer (survivor!), inner child work, conflict and communication issues, divorce, blended and intact families.
When I was a girl there was no one to tell my deepest darkest secrets. My life's work is to be a trusted, healing person to those in pain. My therapy room is many things: a confessional, a delivery room, a crucible, a place of radical honesty with a whole lot of grace. Most of all it is a safe place for you to tell your story, to find strength and hope, to cry, and to heal. I embrace a holistic approach which considers your spirit, mind, body, & community.
(425) 610-6851 View (425) 610-6851
Photo of Bipolar Disorder And Burnout Specialist Michelle Solomon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bellevue, WA
Bipolar Disorder And Burnout Specialist Michelle Solomon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to achieve work-life balance as someone with bipolar disorder or in a high performing job? Do you feel exhausted and overwhelmed trying to manage your mood or stressors of daily life? Sometimes it feels impossible to prioritize your needs and happiness, no matter what you do. Maybe you feel pressure to be “on” all the time, leaving you little room to breathe and relax. It's time to put yourself first. You're ready to advocate for yourself and have your own back. You crave balance in your routine. Let's work together to rediscover joy and pleasure in your life once again. I'm here to help you every step of the way.
Are you struggling to achieve work-life balance as someone with bipolar disorder or in a high performing job? Do you feel exhausted and overwhelmed trying to manage your mood or stressors of daily life? Sometimes it feels impossible to prioritize your needs and happiness, no matter what you do. Maybe you feel pressure to be “on” all the time, leaving you little room to breathe and relax. It's time to put yourself first. You're ready to advocate for yourself and have your own back. You crave balance in your routine. Let's work together to rediscover joy and pleasure in your life once again. I'm here to help you every step of the way.
(206) 752-3559 View (206) 752-3559
Photo of Shar Kunovsky, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Shar Kunovsky
Counselor, JD, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
Using clear, measurable goals along with practical skills development, I diagnose and treat an array of issues: Life Transitions, Anxiety, Depression, Grief and Loss, Bipolar I & II, Mood Swings, Perfectionism, PTSD, Relationship issues, Career/Job issues, Work/Life Balance, Self Esteem, Stress and Stress-Related issues, and Trauma.
**NEW CLIENTS - Please email me** No one deserves to live in pain. For therapy to work, you need three things: curiosity about yourself and your interactions with others, an authentic connection with your therapist, and concrete, practical tools and skills to promote real and lasting change. My job is to facilitate an understanding of what is causing you pain and getting in your way of creating your best life. As your therapist, I don’t “just listen.” I use an integrative approach, combining several modalities to create the most effective treatment for each client. I practice remote therapy with individual adults.
Using clear, measurable goals along with practical skills development, I diagnose and treat an array of issues: Life Transitions, Anxiety, Depression, Grief and Loss, Bipolar I & II, Mood Swings, Perfectionism, PTSD, Relationship issues, Career/Job issues, Work/Life Balance, Self Esteem, Stress and Stress-Related issues, and Trauma.
**NEW CLIENTS - Please email me** No one deserves to live in pain. For therapy to work, you need three things: curiosity about yourself and your interactions with others, an authentic connection with your therapist, and concrete, practical tools and skills to promote real and lasting change. My job is to facilitate an understanding of what is causing you pain and getting in your way of creating your best life. As your therapist, I don’t “just listen.” I use an integrative approach, combining several modalities to create the most effective treatment for each client. I practice remote therapy with individual adults.
(425) 264-8713 View (425) 264-8713
Photo of Whitnee Chavez, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Whitnee Chavez
Licensed Mental Health Counselor , MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Changing your life for the better is rewarding and possible! You most likely came here looking for emotional and practical support and tools. I am here to work with you. Together, we can work on your individual wants and needs, life transitions, and social dynamics. I work with adults, teens 15+, and diverse and fluid families. My focus is mainly life transitions, anxiety, depression, bipolar 1 & 2, ADHD, and PTSD/ trauma.
Changing your life for the better is rewarding and possible! You most likely came here looking for emotional and practical support and tools. I am here to work with you. Together, we can work on your individual wants and needs, life transitions, and social dynamics. I work with adults, teens 15+, and diverse and fluid families. My focus is mainly life transitions, anxiety, depression, bipolar 1 & 2, ADHD, and PTSD/ trauma.
(425) 777-7952 View (425) 777-7952
Photo of Niloufar Amirmoezi, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Bellevue, WA
Niloufar Amirmoezi
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
My areas of expertise include: family conflicts, anxiety, depression, OCD,PTSD,Bipolar Disorder, TS(transgender),LGBT,Women's issues and childhood traumas.
My interest for this job stems from my spiritual artistic insight and the love of helping human beings. I hope to give my clients a comfort environment by being culturally respectful and providing a non-judgmental atmosphere in which you can examine and clarify the issues that concern you in your life.
My areas of expertise include: family conflicts, anxiety, depression, OCD,PTSD,Bipolar Disorder, TS(transgender),LGBT,Women's issues and childhood traumas.
My interest for this job stems from my spiritual artistic insight and the love of helping human beings. I hope to give my clients a comfort environment by being culturally respectful and providing a non-judgmental atmosphere in which you can examine and clarify the issues that concern you in your life.
(425) 403-7163 View (425) 403-7163
Photo of Grant Thornley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bellevue, WA
Grant Thornley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005
My usual client is an adult seeking positive change and is willing to do introspective work to get there. I do clinical work like treatment of depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorders. I also help clients with communications, relationships, and boundary issues. My "niches" include young adults who are experiencing difficulty launching, LGBTQIA+ folks, creatives like authors and songwriters, and corporate workers (especially high tech, I’m a former Microsoftie) from small to large corporations. I am kink- and polyamory-affirming and work with couples and polycules. I have many nerd clients (I'm one too).
My usual client is an adult seeking positive change and is willing to do introspective work to get there. I do clinical work like treatment of depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorders. I also help clients with communications, relationships, and boundary issues. My "niches" include young adults who are experiencing difficulty launching, LGBTQIA+ folks, creatives like authors and songwriters, and corporate workers (especially high tech, I’m a former Microsoftie) from small to large corporations. I am kink- and polyamory-affirming and work with couples and polycules. I have many nerd clients (I'm one too).
(855) 842-0126 View (855) 842-0126
Photo of Steven Kubacki, Psychologist in Bellevue, WA
Steven Kubacki
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
I have been providing psychotherapy and consulting services since 1993 for adults, adolescents, children, couples, and families. My practice is quite diverse and involves the following services: (1) Treatment of PTSD, trauma, bereavement, relationship issues, depression, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, borderline disorder, ADHD, bipolar, conduct disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and Asperger’s. (2) Treatment of chronic pain, quality of life issues, and psychology problems due to debilitating or acute illnesses, such as cancer and auto-immune diseases. (3) Personal growth, spiritual development, and wellness counseling. (4) Sports psychology to improve performance and motivation. (5) Cognitive, personality, learning, and pre-surgical assessments.
I have been providing psychotherapy and consulting services since 1993 for adults, adolescents, children, couples, and families. My practice is quite diverse and involves the following services: (1) Treatment of PTSD, trauma, bereavement, relationship issues, depression, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, borderline disorder, ADHD, bipolar, conduct disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and Asperger’s. (2) Treatment of chronic pain, quality of life issues, and psychology problems due to debilitating or acute illnesses, such as cancer and auto-immune diseases. (3) Personal growth, spiritual development, and wellness counseling. (4) Sports psychology to improve performance and motivation. (5) Cognitive, personality, learning, and pre-surgical assessments.
(206) 922-8133 View (206) 922-8133
Photo of Lori Woodward Bobo, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Lori Woodward Bobo
Counselor, EdS, SUDP, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
My other services include intervention, substance abuse evaluations, mental health evaluations, recovery coaching, bipolar coaching and consultation.
Addiction and mental health issues do not need to be dealt with in silence or alone. I feel privileged to walk aside others on their journey to wellness. I provide a safe place to facilitate change, transformation, and reflection while utilizing an individualized approach for each client. l will meet you where you are at in life. May it be at the summit of a mountain, tumbling down, or at the base.
My other services include intervention, substance abuse evaluations, mental health evaluations, recovery coaching, bipolar coaching and consultation.
Addiction and mental health issues do not need to be dealt with in silence or alone. I feel privileged to walk aside others on their journey to wellness. I provide a safe place to facilitate change, transformation, and reflection while utilizing an individualized approach for each client. l will meet you where you are at in life. May it be at the summit of a mountain, tumbling down, or at the base.
(509) 643-3416 View (509) 643-3416
Photo of Vicki Skelton - Centered Mind Counseling Services, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bellevue, WA
Vicki Skelton - Centered Mind Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with adolescents, teens and adults and couples struggling with depression, bipolar, anxiety, disordered eating, relationship issues, and adjustment to life transitions. I’ve worked in the middle and high-school settings, helping adolescents and teens address issues of low self-esteem, stress and anxiety, lack of academic motivation, bullying, peer pressure, anger management, and family problems. Having had personal experience with infertility, I have a passion for working with those struggling in this area, helping them with the feelings of frustration, stress, loss and relationship challenges.
I enjoy working with adolescents, teens and adults and couples struggling with depression, bipolar, anxiety, disordered eating, relationship issues, and adjustment to life transitions. I’ve worked in the middle and high-school settings, helping adolescents and teens address issues of low self-esteem, stress and anxiety, lack of academic motivation, bullying, peer pressure, anger management, and family problems. Having had personal experience with infertility, I have a passion for working with those struggling in this area, helping them with the feelings of frustration, stress, loss and relationship challenges.
(425) 222-2891 View (425) 222-2891
Photo of Belen Martinez (Enlighten Psychology), Psychologist in Bellevue, WA
Belen Martinez (Enlighten Psychology)
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98006  (Online Only)
Clinical areas of interests include depression, anxiety, relationship issues, maternal mental health, bipolar disorder, self-esteem issues, trauma and abuse, stress, life transitions, and grief/loss.
Belen Martinez, Psy.D. is a licensed clinical psychologist who has extensive experience providing English and Spanish individual psychotherapy to adolescents and adults of all ages. She works with individuals from diverse populations and cultures, with a wide range of concerns. Dr. Martinez’ approach to therapy is collaborative, authentic, empathic, active and caring. She integrates empirically driven methods, including dynamic psychotherapy, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) , cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and relational frameworks, with a highly personalized approach.
Clinical areas of interests include depression, anxiety, relationship issues, maternal mental health, bipolar disorder, self-esteem issues, trauma and abuse, stress, life transitions, and grief/loss.
Belen Martinez, Psy.D. is a licensed clinical psychologist who has extensive experience providing English and Spanish individual psychotherapy to adolescents and adults of all ages. She works with individuals from diverse populations and cultures, with a wide range of concerns. Dr. Martinez’ approach to therapy is collaborative, authentic, empathic, active and caring. She integrates empirically driven methods, including dynamic psychotherapy, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) , cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and relational frameworks, with a highly personalized approach.
(425) 357-7928 View (425) 357-7928
Photo of Relational Psych, Psychologist in Bellevue, WA
Relational Psych
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
Our clients are high achieving millennials, identity-developing gen-zers, people in transition, and people who think deeply about themselves and their growth. Our clients are asking: Why do my emotions feel so out of hand? How do I understand my relational patterns? How is my experience of trauma showing up in my every day life? Do I have ADHD? Do I have bipolar? Am I on the right medication? Should I take a break from work? How do I manage difficult relationships?
Our clients are high achieving millennials, identity-developing gen-zers, people in transition, and people who think deeply about themselves and their growth. Our clients are asking: Why do my emotions feel so out of hand? How do I understand my relational patterns? How is my experience of trauma showing up in my every day life? Do I have ADHD? Do I have bipolar? Am I on the right medication? Should I take a break from work? How do I manage difficult relationships?
(206) 202-0064 View (206) 202-0064
Photo of Jenn Hornbeck, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bellevue, WA
Jenn Hornbeck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005  (Online Only)
I also have experience in helping individuals address a wide array of issues and concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma including PTSD, bipolar disorder, stress management, and relationship conflicts.
Your needs and challenges are unique to you and I am here to help support you in finding a pathway to healing. My approach to therapy is strengths-based and maintains that each person is the expert on their own lives. I use a trauma-informed approach to assess the individual needs of each person I work with. Additionally, I utilize the person-in-environment theory, which emphasizes that one’s environment plays a crucial role in their mental health and overall wellbeing. I will share with you the tools you need to succeed and provide you with support along the way.
I also have experience in helping individuals address a wide array of issues and concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma including PTSD, bipolar disorder, stress management, and relationship conflicts.
Your needs and challenges are unique to you and I am here to help support you in finding a pathway to healing. My approach to therapy is strengths-based and maintains that each person is the expert on their own lives. I use a trauma-informed approach to assess the individual needs of each person I work with. Additionally, I utilize the person-in-environment theory, which emphasizes that one’s environment plays a crucial role in their mental health and overall wellbeing. I will share with you the tools you need to succeed and provide you with support along the way.
(360) 300-4161 View (360) 300-4161
Photo of Skye Macrae, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Skye Macrae
Counselor, EdM, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
I’m a systems-savvy, person-centered, radically affirming provider who excels at the intersection where clinical mental health disorders meet cultural and identity issues. I love to explore gender, sexuality, socioeconomic status, race, and everything else that makes you, YOU! I form deep therapy relationships with clients, and love to collaborate on a transparent, personal level. When I challenge you to grow, you’ll know I come from an earnest base of compassion, commitment, and care... I want to help individuals to feel fun, outrageous, and free, and to develop key understandings into their own psychology, preferences, and needs.
I’m a systems-savvy, person-centered, radically affirming provider who excels at the intersection where clinical mental health disorders meet cultural and identity issues. I love to explore gender, sexuality, socioeconomic status, race, and everything else that makes you, YOU! I form deep therapy relationships with clients, and love to collaborate on a transparent, personal level. When I challenge you to grow, you’ll know I come from an earnest base of compassion, commitment, and care... I want to help individuals to feel fun, outrageous, and free, and to develop key understandings into their own psychology, preferences, and needs.
(360) 783-6239 View (360) 783-6239
Photo of Reliance Health Systems in Bellevue, WA
Reliance Health Systems
PA-C
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98007
I have been in practice of psychiatry for 15 years. I work with patients 13 and older and I offer medication management services in coordination with psychotherapy.
I have been in practice of psychiatry for 15 years. I work with patients 13 and older and I offer medication management services in coordination with psychotherapy.
(509) 204-8650 View (509) 204-8650
Photo of Brendan Seibert, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Brendan Seibert
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
Often change can be out of our control, yet I believe it can still lead to amazing opportunities for growth. I am myself very passionate about working with clients who need support around life changes and work through past trauma. I work with clients of all backgrounds to increase their sense of autonomy over their change whether that’s letting go of an addiction, getting back in the gym, or building better habits. Congratulations on taking the first step and I look forward to starting this journey with you.
Often change can be out of our control, yet I believe it can still lead to amazing opportunities for growth. I am myself very passionate about working with clients who need support around life changes and work through past trauma. I work with clients of all backgrounds to increase their sense of autonomy over their change whether that’s letting go of an addiction, getting back in the gym, or building better habits. Congratulations on taking the first step and I look forward to starting this journey with you.
(425) 658-9695 View (425) 658-9695
Photo of Frankie John, Counselor in Bellevue, WA
Frankie John
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, YTT
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
My purpose in life is to have a positive impact on people's lives. It brings me tremendous joy to uplift people around me. As a therapist, I am dedicated to helping my clients on their journey to live their lives to their full potential. I am committed to showing up and supporting my clients to learn about themselves, heal, and grow. Together, we can discover what it is that holds you back and no longer serves you. We will explore how to redirect your energy to harvest more joy, purpose, and fulfillment in your life.
My purpose in life is to have a positive impact on people's lives. It brings me tremendous joy to uplift people around me. As a therapist, I am dedicated to helping my clients on their journey to live their lives to their full potential. I am committed to showing up and supporting my clients to learn about themselves, heal, and grow. Together, we can discover what it is that holds you back and no longer serves you. We will explore how to redirect your energy to harvest more joy, purpose, and fulfillment in your life.
(425) 777-7745 View (425) 777-7745
Photo of Lara Symonds, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bellevue, WA
Lara Symonds
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
Good for you for taking the first step to a better life, a better relationship, and a better you! Are you are wanting to feel happy and satisfied in your relationships? Do you want to have a more positive outlook on life? Do you want to feel at peace in mind and body? Are you looking to have more energy, motivation, and happiness in your life? Perhaps you really want to enjoy your kids more. We, at OptimalLife Wellness Center, are ready to help you get where you want to be in life.
Good for you for taking the first step to a better life, a better relationship, and a better you! Are you are wanting to feel happy and satisfied in your relationships? Do you want to have a more positive outlook on life? Do you want to feel at peace in mind and body? Are you looking to have more energy, motivation, and happiness in your life? Perhaps you really want to enjoy your kids more. We, at OptimalLife Wellness Center, are ready to help you get where you want to be in life.
(425) 321-0227 x1 View (425) 321-0227 x1
Photo of Zoe Posner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bellevue, WA
Zoe Posner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98007
Hi there! My strongest source of learning as a therapist has been getting to witness remarkable acts of courage by people facing seemingly insurmountable odds. It takes bravery to look within. I believe in helping people feel safe in their bodies again, safe to feel and express their emotions, and trust in their inner wisdom. I value truly understanding and connecting with those I see, and cultivating a space where you are free and comfortable to let your guard down. Whether you’re looking for concrete skills, wanting to dive deep into territory uncharted, or a bit of both, I will tailor my approach to meet your needs and goals.
Hi there! My strongest source of learning as a therapist has been getting to witness remarkable acts of courage by people facing seemingly insurmountable odds. It takes bravery to look within. I believe in helping people feel safe in their bodies again, safe to feel and express their emotions, and trust in their inner wisdom. I value truly understanding and connecting with those I see, and cultivating a space where you are free and comfortable to let your guard down. Whether you’re looking for concrete skills, wanting to dive deep into territory uncharted, or a bit of both, I will tailor my approach to meet your needs and goals.
(425) 537-7122 View (425) 537-7122
Photo of Anywhere Wellness Mental Health Care & Medication in Bellevue, WA
Anywhere Wellness Mental Health Care & Medication
PMH-NP, ARNP, BC FNP
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005  (Online Only)
New Patients Welcome, offering safe, trusting, affirmative, warm, non-judgmental counseling. Life has its challenges and as a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner specializing in Mental Health and weight management, I assist my patients in achieving a higher quality of life through Talk therapy, CBT, Motivational interviewing, Boundary setting & meds. I develop relationships built on mutual respect, trust, empathy, authenticity and compassion so that concerns can be worked through together in a safe private space! Mental health medication management certification and weight loss medication (Ozempic/Zepbound) counseling offered too!
New Patients Welcome, offering safe, trusting, affirmative, warm, non-judgmental counseling. Life has its challenges and as a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner specializing in Mental Health and weight management, I assist my patients in achieving a higher quality of life through Talk therapy, CBT, Motivational interviewing, Boundary setting & meds. I develop relationships built on mutual respect, trust, empathy, authenticity and compassion so that concerns can be worked through together in a safe private space! Mental health medication management certification and weight loss medication (Ozempic/Zepbound) counseling offered too!
(360) 818-7426 View (360) 818-7426
Photo of Matthew J Bennett, Psychologist in Bellevue, WA
Matthew J Bennett
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience as a psychotherapist. Passion for my work, empathy, and excellence in clinical training (several years at University of Pennsylvania) allow me to provide effective, lasting results. I use an integrative, eclectic approach combining psychodynamic and interpersonal therapies to help adolescents and adults gain insight and work through varied life concerns. I see symptoms such as depression, anxiety, and relationship conflict as opportunities for change and personal growth.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience as a psychotherapist. Passion for my work, empathy, and excellence in clinical training (several years at University of Pennsylvania) allow me to provide effective, lasting results. I use an integrative, eclectic approach combining psychodynamic and interpersonal therapies to help adolescents and adults gain insight and work through varied life concerns. I see symptoms such as depression, anxiety, and relationship conflict as opportunities for change and personal growth.
(425) 374-4661 View (425) 374-4661
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.