Photo of Rising Strengths Counseling Center, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winter Park, FL
Rising Strengths Counseling Center, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DCSW, ACSW, CTMH
Verified Verified
Winter Park, FL 32789  (Online Only)
Anxiety Depression PTSD Trauma Couples Counseling , Gender Dysphoria, LGBTQIA+ Self Esteem Fears/Phobias ADD/ADHD Addiction Bipolar Disorder Anger Management Behavioral Issues Coping Skills Parenting Divorce Agoraphobia Stress Gender Identity Grief Mindfulness Mood Disorders Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Panic Disorders Postpartum Depression.
I work with individuals- adults, adolescents and children, couples and families with a variety of issues. I strive to provide hope and healing through working with you to develop a plan to help you with your mental and emotional health.
Anxiety Depression PTSD Trauma Couples Counseling , Gender Dysphoria, LGBTQIA+ Self Esteem Fears/Phobias ADD/ADHD Addiction Bipolar Disorder Anger Management Behavioral Issues Coping Skills Parenting Divorce Agoraphobia Stress Gender Identity Grief Mindfulness Mood Disorders Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Panic Disorders Postpartum Depression.
I work with individuals- adults, adolescents and children, couples and families with a variety of issues. I strive to provide hope and healing through working with you to develop a plan to help you with your mental and emotional health.
(813) 212-8937 View (813) 212-8937
Photo of Camille Spencer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winter Park, FL
Camille Spencer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
Winter Park, FL 32789  (Online Only)
I combine traditional complementary methodologies and current neurological research to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each client. I am committed to assisting each individual build on their existing strengths to live their best possible self. I assist my clients in reducing their overwhelming emotions and help them learn new skills to replace negative coping behaviors, among other goals through EMDR, DBT, and CBT. I work very hard to help clients achieve their life worth living. I bring humor and lightness to our work—we can have fun while also working hard!
I combine traditional complementary methodologies and current neurological research to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each client. I am committed to assisting each individual build on their existing strengths to live their best possible self. I assist my clients in reducing their overwhelming emotions and help them learn new skills to replace negative coping behaviors, among other goals through EMDR, DBT, and CBT. I work very hard to help clients achieve their life worth living. I bring humor and lightness to our work—we can have fun while also working hard!
(321) 450-9272 View (321) 450-9272
Photo of Kristine J King, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winter Park, FL
Kristine J King
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Winter Park, FL 32789  (Online Only)
Greetings! As a licensed therapist with 14 years of experience, I'm here to provide a safe and nurturing space where you can freely express yourself without fear of judgement. It takes courage to embark on a journey towards a happier and more fulfilling life, and I'm dedicated to supporting and empowering you every step of the way. My academic background includes a master's in social work from Southern Illinois University and a master's in teaching from Aurora University in Illinois. I'm deeply passionate about guiding you towards a life filled with purpose, joy, and fulfillment. Let's embark on this transformative journey together!
Greetings! As a licensed therapist with 14 years of experience, I'm here to provide a safe and nurturing space where you can freely express yourself without fear of judgement. It takes courage to embark on a journey towards a happier and more fulfilling life, and I'm dedicated to supporting and empowering you every step of the way. My academic background includes a master's in social work from Southern Illinois University and a master's in teaching from Aurora University in Illinois. I'm deeply passionate about guiding you towards a life filled with purpose, joy, and fulfillment. Let's embark on this transformative journey together!
(727) 594-4659 View (727) 594-4659
Photo of William Toth, Counselor in Winter Park, FL
William Toth
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Winter Park, FL 32792
Hello, my name is William Emory Toth. I am a licensed mental health counselor with over 24 years of clinical experience. My primary focus is depression, anxiety, substance abuse, marital/couples' issues, stress reduction, and other mental or emotional disturbances. I utilize therapeutic interventions, which include Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Supportive, Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), Couples Therapy, and Interpersonal therapies. I believe in always aiming to provide quality care for all of those in need.
Hello, my name is William Emory Toth. I am a licensed mental health counselor with over 24 years of clinical experience. My primary focus is depression, anxiety, substance abuse, marital/couples' issues, stress reduction, and other mental or emotional disturbances. I utilize therapeutic interventions, which include Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Supportive, Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), Couples Therapy, and Interpersonal therapies. I believe in always aiming to provide quality care for all of those in need.
(386) 280-7808 View (386) 280-7808
Photo of Leslie Pender, Counselor in Winter Park, FL
Leslie Pender
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Winter Park, FL 32792
I believe that at some point in our lives we will need someone in our corner who will be that objective voice assisting us as we navigate through challenging times. Often times it is difficult to see the light at the end of the tunnel however I believe that each person has within the necessary tools to overcome whatever challenges that they may be facing. Counseling allows for the tapping into those strengths as well as empowering an individual to be the best that they can be.
I believe that at some point in our lives we will need someone in our corner who will be that objective voice assisting us as we navigate through challenging times. Often times it is difficult to see the light at the end of the tunnel however I believe that each person has within the necessary tools to overcome whatever challenges that they may be facing. Counseling allows for the tapping into those strengths as well as empowering an individual to be the best that they can be.
(321) 392-4920 View (321) 392-4920
Photo of Dorian E. Race, Counselor in Winter Park, FL
Dorian E. Race
Counselor, LMHC, MS
Verified Verified
Winter Park, FL 32789
Do you feel overwhelmed by life? Struggling to find the joy? Wondering what it all means? I am devoted to providing a safe and loving space for you to discuss your deepest concerns and challenges without fear of judgment or misunderstanding. With over 30 years of experience in the healthcare helping professions, I have an authentic, candid interest in understanding your perspective and supporting you as you learn to make the changes that will lead you closer to the life that you desire and deserve.
Do you feel overwhelmed by life? Struggling to find the joy? Wondering what it all means? I am devoted to providing a safe and loving space for you to discuss your deepest concerns and challenges without fear of judgment or misunderstanding. With over 30 years of experience in the healthcare helping professions, I have an authentic, candid interest in understanding your perspective and supporting you as you learn to make the changes that will lead you closer to the life that you desire and deserve.
(407) 603-3828 View (407) 603-3828
Photo of Abbe Barclay, Marriage & Family Therapist in Winter Park, FL
Abbe Barclay
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSW, LMFT, CSAT, CPTT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winter Park, FL 32789
Welcome. I specialize in working with sexual addiction, betrayal trauma, and rebuilding your couple-ship following a betrayal. Although I hold a specialty in treating sexual addiction, I treat general marital, and individual issues regularly. Are you keeping sexual secrets from someone you love, or has someone you love betrayed you?. I work with infidelity, communication problems, conflict resolution, divorce, codependency, depression, anxiety,& very importantly, healing trauma. In working through any life challenge,it can be hard. I offer a safe,nuturing place to guide you on your healing journey.. CPTT and CSAT credentials.
Welcome. I specialize in working with sexual addiction, betrayal trauma, and rebuilding your couple-ship following a betrayal. Although I hold a specialty in treating sexual addiction, I treat general marital, and individual issues regularly. Are you keeping sexual secrets from someone you love, or has someone you love betrayed you?. I work with infidelity, communication problems, conflict resolution, divorce, codependency, depression, anxiety,& very importantly, healing trauma. In working through any life challenge,it can be hard. I offer a safe,nuturing place to guide you on your healing journey.. CPTT and CSAT credentials.
(407) 901-3432 View (407) 901-3432
Photo of Ernie Reilly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winter Park, FL
Ernie Reilly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winter Park, FL 32789
Dr. Reilly is a Licensed Therapist, Child Therapist, Play Therapist, Adolescent Counselor, Adult Counselor, Family Therapist, Co-parent Counselor, Parent Coach, Sports Therapist, Florida Supreme Court Certified Family Mediator, Parent Coordinator, Life Coach, & Marriage & Couple's Counselor. For over 20 years he has put his extensive clinical expertise & warm friendly approach towards treating: Children, adults, couples, & families. In addition to having a thriving private practice, Dr. Reilly has taught graduate school at UCF, presents locally and nationally on mental health, has supervised treatment programs for Arnold Palmer Hospital & has won the Central Florida Victim Services Award for mental health treatment. .
Dr. Reilly is a Licensed Therapist, Child Therapist, Play Therapist, Adolescent Counselor, Adult Counselor, Family Therapist, Co-parent Counselor, Parent Coach, Sports Therapist, Florida Supreme Court Certified Family Mediator, Parent Coordinator, Life Coach, & Marriage & Couple's Counselor. For over 20 years he has put his extensive clinical expertise & warm friendly approach towards treating: Children, adults, couples, & families. In addition to having a thriving private practice, Dr. Reilly has taught graduate school at UCF, presents locally and nationally on mental health, has supervised treatment programs for Arnold Palmer Hospital & has won the Central Florida Victim Services Award for mental health treatment. .
(407) 258-1846 View (407) 258-1846
Photo of Tammy Mccallister, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Winter Park, FL
Tammy Mccallister
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Winter Park, FL 32789
There is nothing I enjoy more than to see the transformation that can take place during the therapy process. It is inspiring to witness peoples ability to change their perspective about themselves and about their individual problems. My goal is to provide a safe environment for people to learn and grow into people they choose and my role is to guide them in the process. I specialize in working with persons who have experienced trauma and primarily use EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) therapy to heal past wounds. EMDR's mission is to create global healing, health and hope.
There is nothing I enjoy more than to see the transformation that can take place during the therapy process. It is inspiring to witness peoples ability to change their perspective about themselves and about their individual problems. My goal is to provide a safe environment for people to learn and grow into people they choose and my role is to guide them in the process. I specialize in working with persons who have experienced trauma and primarily use EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) therapy to heal past wounds. EMDR's mission is to create global healing, health and hope.
(321) 392-6869 View (321) 392-6869
Photo of Michelle Lake, Counselor in Winter Park, FL
Michelle Lake
Counselor, EdD, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winter Park, FL 32789  (Online Only)
Dr. Michelle Lake is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Qualified Supervisor in Florida. She is also an Industrial Organizational Psychologist. She received her Master's Degree in Counselor Education with a specialization in Mental Health Counseling, and a Doctorate degree in Organizational Leadership with a Specialization in Human Resources. Dr. Lake has devoted her life to helping others make positive changes in their lives. We all face obstacles and sometimes feel like we do not have the strength to overcome these obstacles. However, within each human spirit, is the power to thrive and overcome life's challenges.
Dr. Michelle Lake is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Qualified Supervisor in Florida. She is also an Industrial Organizational Psychologist. She received her Master's Degree in Counselor Education with a specialization in Mental Health Counseling, and a Doctorate degree in Organizational Leadership with a Specialization in Human Resources. Dr. Lake has devoted her life to helping others make positive changes in their lives. We all face obstacles and sometimes feel like we do not have the strength to overcome these obstacles. However, within each human spirit, is the power to thrive and overcome life's challenges.
(786) 420-4724 View (786) 420-4724
Photo of Anne Rothenberg, Counselor in Winter Park, FL
Anne Rothenberg
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winter Park, FL 32789
Low Sexual Desire? Sexual Incompatibility? Sexual Dysfunction? Porn Addiction? Cheating Partner? Cheating Spouse? Sexual Abuse Survivor? Internationally recognized Clinical Sexologist Dr. Anne Rothenberg specializes in counseling and therapy related to sexuality and sexual behavior. Areas covered include: female sexual dysfunction, male sexual dysfunction, Gay, Lesbian, LGBT, coming out, child sexuality, adolescent sexuality, gender identity, sex addiction, porn addiction, sexual abuse (male and female), desire, arousal, orgasm, erectile dysfunction, sexual performance anxiety, incompatibility, relationship issues, cheating, infidelity, anger, honesty, trust, loneliness, self esteem, body image, sadness, worry, anxiety, depression. Please visit: www.AnneRothenberg.com. I look forward to speaking with you!
Low Sexual Desire? Sexual Incompatibility? Sexual Dysfunction? Porn Addiction? Cheating Partner? Cheating Spouse? Sexual Abuse Survivor? Internationally recognized Clinical Sexologist Dr. Anne Rothenberg specializes in counseling and therapy related to sexuality and sexual behavior. Areas covered include: female sexual dysfunction, male sexual dysfunction, Gay, Lesbian, LGBT, coming out, child sexuality, adolescent sexuality, gender identity, sex addiction, porn addiction, sexual abuse (male and female), desire, arousal, orgasm, erectile dysfunction, sexual performance anxiety, incompatibility, relationship issues, cheating, infidelity, anger, honesty, trust, loneliness, self esteem, body image, sadness, worry, anxiety, depression. Please visit: www.AnneRothenberg.com. I look forward to speaking with you!
(407) 456-8706 View (407) 456-8706
Photo of John Sanders, Counselor in Winter Park, FL
John Sanders
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, MAC
Verified Verified
Winter Park, FL 32789  (Online Only)
Cramped quarters during this miserable pandemic? Suffocating lately? Still interpreting all this as a loss? Learn how to switch gears! Video counseling is effective for developing and practicing the skills you need in these swiftly moving changes. These changes are not about loss. They are all about the skills of adaptation. Move from the fearful debilitating Feelings of Loss into the listening and detachment skills needed in your family today. Build real life coping skills. Eliminate the fear and frustration of confinement.
Cramped quarters during this miserable pandemic? Suffocating lately? Still interpreting all this as a loss? Learn how to switch gears! Video counseling is effective for developing and practicing the skills you need in these swiftly moving changes. These changes are not about loss. They are all about the skills of adaptation. Move from the fearful debilitating Feelings of Loss into the listening and detachment skills needed in your family today. Build real life coping skills. Eliminate the fear and frustration of confinement.
(352) 729-3951 View (352) 729-3951
Photo of Open Doors Counseling Center, Counselor in Winter Park, FL
Open Doors Counseling Center
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Winter Park, FL 32792
At Open Doors Counseling Center we are passionate about helping individuals, children, teens, couples and families find peace, healing, strength and direction. We understand there are times when life can be painful, stressful, exhausting, and confusing. Our clients often come to us saying, "I feel stuck." "We just don't get along anymore." "We are so worried about our son." "We don't know what else to do." "I just can't seem to follow through on anything." "I am sad/anxious/worried/angry and I just want to feel happy." Life is really hard and sometimes you just need an expert to help you navigate the difficult and painful times.
At Open Doors Counseling Center we are passionate about helping individuals, children, teens, couples and families find peace, healing, strength and direction. We understand there are times when life can be painful, stressful, exhausting, and confusing. Our clients often come to us saying, "I feel stuck." "We just don't get along anymore." "We are so worried about our son." "We don't know what else to do." "I just can't seem to follow through on anything." "I am sad/anxious/worried/angry and I just want to feel happy." Life is really hard and sometimes you just need an expert to help you navigate the difficult and painful times.
(407) 900-3218 View (407) 900-3218
Photo of Brianna Leigh Brown, Counselor in Winter Park, FL
Brianna Leigh Brown
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winter Park, FL 32789
I have helped individuals with interpersonal, emotional and behavioral difficulties, as well as survivors of sexual trauma, grief, adjustment disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, postpartum depression, personality disorders, and autism spectrum disorder.
My eclectic approach to counseling includes person-centered psychotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and solution-focused therapeutic theories. I provide my clients with unconditional positive regard and empathetic understanding, creating a warm, positive, and welcoming atmosphere to encourage all clients to feel safe while sharing their personal story. I utilize evidenced-based therapy techniques and mindfulness to help clients cope with distress, regulate emotions, communicate more effectively, identify and reduce self-destructive behavior patterns, and find balance on a day-to-day basis. I meet the individual needs of each client to foster personal empowerment and growth.
I have helped individuals with interpersonal, emotional and behavioral difficulties, as well as survivors of sexual trauma, grief, adjustment disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, postpartum depression, personality disorders, and autism spectrum disorder.
My eclectic approach to counseling includes person-centered psychotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and solution-focused therapeutic theories. I provide my clients with unconditional positive regard and empathetic understanding, creating a warm, positive, and welcoming atmosphere to encourage all clients to feel safe while sharing their personal story. I utilize evidenced-based therapy techniques and mindfulness to help clients cope with distress, regulate emotions, communicate more effectively, identify and reduce self-destructive behavior patterns, and find balance on a day-to-day basis. I meet the individual needs of each client to foster personal empowerment and growth.
(407) 275-0745 View (407) 275-0745
Photo of Dr. John Grbac, Psychologist in Winter Park, FL
Dr. John Grbac
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Winter Park, FL 32789
With over 25 years of professional counseling experience, Dr. Grbac provides a variety of services to children and families of central Florida. Beginning as a YMCA camp counselor at age 17, Dr. Grbac has always been dedicated to the happiness and health of children and teenagers. His continued passion and talent at helping has led to his successful private practice as a child psychologist. "Dr. John" is well known in the community for his warm and down-to-earth nature, child-friendly approach and vast clinical background, which fosters comfort and support when dealing with sensitive and challenging life problems.
With over 25 years of professional counseling experience, Dr. Grbac provides a variety of services to children and families of central Florida. Beginning as a YMCA camp counselor at age 17, Dr. Grbac has always been dedicated to the happiness and health of children and teenagers. His continued passion and talent at helping has led to his successful private practice as a child psychologist. "Dr. John" is well known in the community for his warm and down-to-earth nature, child-friendly approach and vast clinical background, which fosters comfort and support when dealing with sensitive and challenging life problems.
(407) 801-6535 View (407) 801-6535
Photo of Deborah A Whitehair, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winter Park, FL
Deborah A Whitehair
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winter Park, FL 32789
NOW accepting new clients as of 3/10/2024. I have been a licensed clinical social worker for over 25 years, helping adults of all ages cope with the numerous stressors that life can hand us. I have received years of feedback from clients and their families telling me how easy I am to talk with. Having worked for years in clinics, hospitals, hospices, rehabs, and people’s homes, I have a deep understanding of the many issues that we can face in our lifetime.
NOW accepting new clients as of 3/10/2024. I have been a licensed clinical social worker for over 25 years, helping adults of all ages cope with the numerous stressors that life can hand us. I have received years of feedback from clients and their families telling me how easy I am to talk with. Having worked for years in clinics, hospitals, hospices, rehabs, and people’s homes, I have a deep understanding of the many issues that we can face in our lifetime.
(321) 257-2624 View (321) 257-2624
Photo of Jennifer Castner, Counselor in Winter Park, FL
Jennifer Castner
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, MAC, MAEd, BCC
Verified Verified
Winter Park, FL 32789  (Online Only)
Jennifer Castner
Jennifer Castner
(407) 499-4387 View (407) 499-4387
Photo of Damarys J. Gilligan, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Winter Park, FL
Damarys J. Gilligan
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, EdD, LMHC, NCC, CFRC
Verified Verified
Winter Park, FL 32790  (Online Only)
Is struggling with anxiety leaving you feeling empty, exhausted, and even lost at times? Life can be complicated and you might be wondering if this is going to be your life forever. You don’t understand how your life got to this point. You may not remember of a time where anxiety wasn’t part of your life. Dealing with lack of motivation, dreading making plans with friends and family, having difficulty concentrating, and avoiding taking care of yourself has led to not enjoying your life to the fullest. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to cope with your worries. You’re ready to be yourself again!
Is struggling with anxiety leaving you feeling empty, exhausted, and even lost at times? Life can be complicated and you might be wondering if this is going to be your life forever. You don’t understand how your life got to this point. You may not remember of a time where anxiety wasn’t part of your life. Dealing with lack of motivation, dreading making plans with friends and family, having difficulty concentrating, and avoiding taking care of yourself has led to not enjoying your life to the fullest. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to cope with your worries. You’re ready to be yourself again!
(954) 231-4682 View (954) 231-4682
Photo of Stacey Herdegen, Registered Marriage and Family Therapist Intern in Winter Park, FL
Stacey Herdegen
Registered Marriage and Family Therapist Intern, IMT3648, NCC, CFRA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winter Park, FL 32789  (Online Only)
We all need & seek connection; connection with others, connection to certain feelings or things, connection to ideas & goals, connection with ourselves. Whether you're struggling with feelings of disconnection, or are looking to better manage/improve upon current connections, I believe that there is strength, growth, & hope in numbers - we weren't meant to go it alone. As a graduate from UCF with a Masters degree in Marriage, Couples, & Family therapy, I operate from a systemic perspective - utilizing an integrative, holistic approach.
We all need & seek connection; connection with others, connection to certain feelings or things, connection to ideas & goals, connection with ourselves. Whether you're struggling with feelings of disconnection, or are looking to better manage/improve upon current connections, I believe that there is strength, growth, & hope in numbers - we weren't meant to go it alone. As a graduate from UCF with a Masters degree in Marriage, Couples, & Family therapy, I operate from a systemic perspective - utilizing an integrative, holistic approach.
(407) 743-6396 View (407) 743-6396
Photo of Central Florida Psychiatric Associates, Counselor in Winter Park, FL
Central Florida Psychiatric Associates
Counselor
Verified Verified
Winter Park, FL 32792
We are a team of caring & knowledgeable mental health professionals with extensive experience in the diagnosis & treatment of many psychiatric disorders. Maria Lozano, MD, board certified psychiatrist, has been practicing in Central Florida since 1988. She provides medication management services to adolescents & adults for a variety of conditions including depression, anxiety, OCD, mood disorders (Bipolar) & ADD/ADHD. Dania Penedo, LMHC is bilingual (English & Spanish) with 25+ years experience; specialties include mood & anxiety disorders, personality disorders, women's issues & relationship counseling.
We are a team of caring & knowledgeable mental health professionals with extensive experience in the diagnosis & treatment of many psychiatric disorders. Maria Lozano, MD, board certified psychiatrist, has been practicing in Central Florida since 1988. She provides medication management services to adolescents & adults for a variety of conditions including depression, anxiety, OCD, mood disorders (Bipolar) & ADD/ADHD. Dania Penedo, LMHC is bilingual (English & Spanish) with 25+ years experience; specialties include mood & anxiety disorders, personality disorders, women's issues & relationship counseling.
(407) 749-1137 View (407) 749-1137

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.