Therapists in Winston Salem, NC

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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 Associates in Christian Counseling, Psychologist in Winston Salem, NC
Associates in Christian Counseling
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27106
For twenty years our group has brought encouragement and professional services to people of all ages. Our credentialed staff can work with a wide range of individual, marital and family issues. In addition to our main office in Winston-Salem, we also offer services in Surry County and Rockingham County. Details and contact info for each location are available on our website using the link above.
For twenty years our group has brought encouragement and professional services to people of all ages. Our credentialed staff can work with a wide range of individual, marital and family issues. In addition to our main office in Winston-Salem, we also offer services in Surry County and Rockingham County. Details and contact info for each location are available on our website using the link above.
(336) 896-0065 View (336) 896-0065
Photo of Rachel Tegowski, Marriage & Family Therapist in Winston Salem, NC
Rachel Tegowski
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101
Let me begin by commending you for demonstrating the strength to take the first step of reaching out for support. By having the courage to begin the therapeutic process, you are taking the first step towards overcoming whatever difficulties you are currently facing and creating a more positive future for yourself, your relationship, or your family. Oftentimes the stressors of life can become overwhelming for us to handle on our own and can negatively impact our relationships with others. Fortunately, you are not alone as I am here to listen with empathy and compassion.
Let me begin by commending you for demonstrating the strength to take the first step of reaching out for support. By having the courage to begin the therapeutic process, you are taking the first step towards overcoming whatever difficulties you are currently facing and creating a more positive future for yourself, your relationship, or your family. Oftentimes the stressors of life can become overwhelming for us to handle on our own and can negatively impact our relationships with others. Fortunately, you are not alone as I am here to listen with empathy and compassion.
(336) 276-2470 View (336) 276-2470
Photo of Tim Lambertson, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Winston Salem, NC
Tim Lambertson
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MS, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27101  (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Tim. I’m so glad you’re here. I work with people exclusively using teletherapy. If you are open to that, then let’s work collaboratively to address obstacles impeding your journey toward a fulfilling life. In the realm of human existence and relationships, we encounter both challenges and opportunities for growth. By exploring these complexities and delving into our inner selves through the wisdom gained from contemplative analysis (mindfulness), we can better understand and resolve conflicts, mend broken connections, and heal from past traumas.
Hi, I’m Tim. I’m so glad you’re here. I work with people exclusively using teletherapy. If you are open to that, then let’s work collaboratively to address obstacles impeding your journey toward a fulfilling life. In the realm of human existence and relationships, we encounter both challenges and opportunities for growth. By exploring these complexities and delving into our inner selves through the wisdom gained from contemplative analysis (mindfulness), we can better understand and resolve conflicts, mend broken connections, and heal from past traumas.
(336) 656-2500 View (336) 656-2500
Photo of Creative Counseling and Wellness Center Corp, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Creative Counseling and Wellness Center Corp
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCMHCS, LCAS, CRC, CCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
All of our journeys are unique. It is important that each individual finds a path to wellness that is comfortable for them. At times, life brings challenges and roadblocks that require us to seek outside supports. I strive to provide a safe and caring, judgement free environment for individuals to explore and unpack life's difficulties. I provide effective care and give individuals the respect they deserve.
All of our journeys are unique. It is important that each individual finds a path to wellness that is comfortable for them. At times, life brings challenges and roadblocks that require us to seek outside supports. I strive to provide a safe and caring, judgement free environment for individuals to explore and unpack life's difficulties. I provide effective care and give individuals the respect they deserve.
(336) 939-0428 View (336) 939-0428
Photo of Leigh Zick Dongre, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in Winston Salem, NC
Leigh Zick Dongre
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, PhD, LCMHC-S, LCAS
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27104
The path to living more fully is an adventure, one I believe has transformed my own life. Each day I am honored to join people along a path of recovery, self-exploration, and healing. I have helped people break through the obstacles that seem to be holding them back in life. My role as your counselor is to be a knowledgeable, genuine, and empathetic guide along this journey and provide a safe and supportive environment to do so. I help people live their best lives, by reaching more authenticity, self-awareness, and making behavioral changes. I primarily offer telemental health counseling with options for counseling in Winston-Salem.
The path to living more fully is an adventure, one I believe has transformed my own life. Each day I am honored to join people along a path of recovery, self-exploration, and healing. I have helped people break through the obstacles that seem to be holding them back in life. My role as your counselor is to be a knowledgeable, genuine, and empathetic guide along this journey and provide a safe and supportive environment to do so. I help people live their best lives, by reaching more authenticity, self-awareness, and making behavioral changes. I primarily offer telemental health counseling with options for counseling in Winston-Salem.
(336) 791-0314 View (336) 791-0314
Photo of Brittany Calhoun, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winston Salem, NC
Brittany Calhoun
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Committed social worker serving disadvantaged youth, adults, LGBTQ+ community, veterans, and the elderly. I empower clients to take charge of their own journey and find solutions to their unique situations. As a dedicated mental health professional, I bring a wealth of experience in therapy, and psychoeducation. With a focus on evidence-based practices, and a compassionate approach. I strive to empower individuals to overcome challenges and achieve holistic well-being. As a mental health professional specializing in substance use disorders, I am dedicated to helping individuals overcome addiction and reclaim their lives.
Committed social worker serving disadvantaged youth, adults, LGBTQ+ community, veterans, and the elderly. I empower clients to take charge of their own journey and find solutions to their unique situations. As a dedicated mental health professional, I bring a wealth of experience in therapy, and psychoeducation. With a focus on evidence-based practices, and a compassionate approach. I strive to empower individuals to overcome challenges and achieve holistic well-being. As a mental health professional specializing in substance use disorders, I am dedicated to helping individuals overcome addiction and reclaim their lives.
(336) 742-5107 View (336) 742-5107
Photo of Jessica Cartwright, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winston Salem, NC
Jessica Cartwright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP, LCSW
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27106  (Online Only)
Welcome! Jessica is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Independent Social Worker-Clinical Practice, who earned her Bachelor of Art in Psychology from North Carolina State University and her Master of Social Work from a joint multicultural clinical program between The University of North Carolina at Greensboro and North Carolina Agricultural and Technical University. Jessica has provided individual, family, and group therapy in a variety of different settings throughout her career such as school-based, hospital: inpatient and outpatient, family agency, and private practice.
Welcome! Jessica is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Independent Social Worker-Clinical Practice, who earned her Bachelor of Art in Psychology from North Carolina State University and her Master of Social Work from a joint multicultural clinical program between The University of North Carolina at Greensboro and North Carolina Agricultural and Technical University. Jessica has provided individual, family, and group therapy in a variety of different settings throughout her career such as school-based, hospital: inpatient and outpatient, family agency, and private practice.
(336) 815-4706 View (336) 815-4706
Photo of Katie Davin, Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Katie Davin
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101
Anxiety and depression can be suffocating and often restrict you from engaging in life in the ways you want to. They are quite successful at creating a cycle of disappointment and desperation that convince you you’re alone and helpless. While that inner voice of yours may be wreaking havoc and demanding that you rethink that situation or decision for the umpteenth time, let me remind you that you are not broken nor are you alone. Everyone has an inherent ability to achieve personal growth and overcome the ravages of anxiety — we just need some guidance at times.
Anxiety and depression can be suffocating and often restrict you from engaging in life in the ways you want to. They are quite successful at creating a cycle of disappointment and desperation that convince you you’re alone and helpless. While that inner voice of yours may be wreaking havoc and demanding that you rethink that situation or decision for the umpteenth time, let me remind you that you are not broken nor are you alone. Everyone has an inherent ability to achieve personal growth and overcome the ravages of anxiety — we just need some guidance at times.
(336) 863-3954 View (336) 863-3954
Photo of Courtney Deakle in Winston Salem, NC
Courtney Deakle
LCMHC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Welcome! If you are looking for a couples counselor to support you and your partner through a hard place in your relationship, I would love to help. I use a combination of Emotionally Focused couples counseling and Gottman Method couples counseling. Using well-researched and time-tested strategies, I will work with you and your partner to help you reconnect, and create a life together that is meaningful, joyful, and hopeful for both of you. I also work with families and individuals on a variety of mental health issues, specializing in Depression, Anxiety, and PTSD/trauma.
Welcome! If you are looking for a couples counselor to support you and your partner through a hard place in your relationship, I would love to help. I use a combination of Emotionally Focused couples counseling and Gottman Method couples counseling. Using well-researched and time-tested strategies, I will work with you and your partner to help you reconnect, and create a life together that is meaningful, joyful, and hopeful for both of you. I also work with families and individuals on a variety of mental health issues, specializing in Depression, Anxiety, and PTSD/trauma.
(336) 490-9103 View (336) 490-9103
Photo of Patricia L Owens, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Patricia L Owens
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103
I believe therapy can be essential for anyone seeking to improve their mental well being. Each of us have experienced our own difficulties, though they may be different, struggle is universal. It is my desire to provide a safe, unbiased, and welcoming space for you to grow to the person you want to be. In therapy I will be there to provide a listening ear and give feedback to assist you in your journey. During this time we will work as a team navigating the ups and downs together.
I believe therapy can be essential for anyone seeking to improve their mental well being. Each of us have experienced our own difficulties, though they may be different, struggle is universal. It is my desire to provide a safe, unbiased, and welcoming space for you to grow to the person you want to be. In therapy I will be there to provide a listening ear and give feedback to assist you in your journey. During this time we will work as a team navigating the ups and downs together.
(336) 518-9915 View (336) 518-9915

See more therapy options for Winston Salem

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.